Ujjain The City of Temples

Author: MK Pal
Publisher: Niyogi Books, New Delhi
(Pp 152, ISBN 978-93-83098-51-4, Rs 495)

Ujjain is the city of temples and has importance in terms of religious belief as well as an important part of Indian History. Ujjain is most famous for one of the Jyotirlinga of the 12 Jyotirlingas – The Mahakaleshwar Temple. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of Linga and is believed to be the Supreme power of Universe.

Ujjain The City of Temples describes the history, mythology, rituals, and festivals of the important temples in Ujjain. It describes the importance of River Shipra to the people of Ujjain. The author,

Dr MK Pal who researches in arts, crafts and socio-cultural fields, in his book talks about the rise and fall of the city under various Indian rulers and foreign invaders. Numerous illustrations have enhanced the value of the book that brings live the deities and festivals in the city of Ujjain.

The book records the salient features of the temple culture of Ujjain with special emphasis on their historical and socio-cultural perspectives. Punctuated with anecdotes and legends associated with the centers of worship, the narration makes an interesting reading.

The book aims to provide interesting information to the English knowing inter-state visitors and foreign tourists. The appendices providing information on eighty four Mahadevas in Ujjain and twelve Jyotirlingas in India followed by glossary and index has improved the value of the book as it helps the readers understand the temples and deities of Ujjain.

– GS Jolly