This is one of the oldest temples in the hills and is said to have been built by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. It is dedicated to Shiva and the fire in it keeps burning all the time. The people have very great faith in this god as a giver of rain. When the rains do not fall at the proper time, the people assemble in the temple and pray to the god who gives rain in return.
A special disciple of Shiva, known as Bhanaitu, is said to possess the power of digesting brick-bats. When he sits on the burning fire in the temple, Shiva enters his body making him impervious to injury.
The idol of the god is carried in a chariot when visiting another place. Many gold and silver ornaments decorate the idol which is accompanied by hundreds of followers including pipers and chobdars.
None can enter the temple with his shoes on, while women are never permitted access. Towards the west of the temple is an idol of another god which nobody sees for fear of immediate death. While worshipping him, the pujari closes his eyes to avoid all chances of seeing the god. The use of charpies is also forbidden within the temple walls.
Close to the temple is a heavy stone which is capable of being lifted by the little finger of any widow who is prepared to become a sati. In the old days when the sati ceremony was popular amongst the widows in the State, the widows used to lift the stone before they plunged into the sacred fire as it is believed that by doing so they avoid feeling the burning.
