Ujjain, a religious city where abides ancient cultures & traditions

by Atul Chaudhary Executive

Ujjain, a significant part of state of Madhya Pradesh, is an ancient city that has completely immersed itself into religion. It is one of the handful of cities that have long been the site of human settlement with regular changes in administration. As change in administration usually changes lots of things in a city or kingdom, however, one thing that remained the same in Ujjain irrespective of the administrative changes is the belief of citizens and even the rulers (kings in this case) upon the almighty. Religion has always stayed in the city and prevailed all the changes that tried to change it.

The city was also once called Avanti and Ujjayini, and religion is the facet of it which pretty much dominates every other aspect/facet in the city. In fact, it is the religion that makes travellers and devotees across all over India to visit the city.

Ujjain is a significant part of the most revered holy destinations in India, and it is believed that on the road to attain Moksha a visit to the city is a must. Of all the prominent attributes of the city, the most dominant one is the fact that the city is the host to the world-popular triennial Kumbh Mela. A little less significant but immensely revered attribute is that the city houses one of the jyotirlinga from the group of 12 most revered jyotirlingas that are dispersed all over India.

Being an immensely significant holy city brings several legends and religious beliefs to Ujjain. The city finds mention in number of ancient scriptures and writings, Mahabharata being one of them. Besides, the political history of the city is quite glorious as well. The glorious history of the city includes the legendary figures like Ashoka, Vikramaditya, Brahmagupta, and Varahamihira etc. Besides, it were the tranquil places of the city where Kalidasa wrote many of his works.

At the meantime, while the city still clings to its magnificent past, the denizens, on the other hand have embraced urbanization with quite an ease. Today, the city is one fine example of cities across the world that are happy mixture of old world charm and the way of modern life. The glamour filled shopping markets and malls, uber modern multiplexes, restaurants, and hotels in Ujjain etc. show the modern side of the city that simply lure one to relish them.

As far as tourism is in consideration, the city offers plenty of options. The city is a must visit for those with an inclination towards history, religion, and ancient architecture. The unparalleled temples in the city form a major constituent of top places to visit in Ujjain. To name some include: Mahakaleshwar Temple, Kal Bhairava, Ram Mandir Ghat, ISKCON Temple, Maa Wagheshwari, Chintaman Ganesh Temple, Mangalnath, Harsiddhi Temple, Pir Matsyendranath Gomti Kund, Gopal Temple, and Chamunda Temple etc. The other popular tourist attractions include: Vikram University, Kaliadeh Palace, Durgadas Ki Chhatri, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Museum, and Bhartrihari Caves.

Simply put, Ujjain is an ancient city where religion is given utmost importance. Meanwhile, replete of ancient tourist attractions and some modern allures, the city is also an ideal destination for holidaying.