'Mandhata' was the ancient name of which pilgrimage centre?

Question

UnlockIAS · Accepted Answer

Correct — B, Onkareshwar (Omkareshwar). The Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple stands on an island in the Narmada river, in Khandwa district of MP; the island itself is traditionally called Mandhata (or Mandhata Parvat) after King Mandhata of the Ikshvaku dynasty, who is said to have performed penance there and been blessed by Shiva. The island's outline is also said to resemble the 'Om' symbol — the source of the name Omkareshwar.

Why the other options are wrong — (a) Wrong — Kamadgiri (near Chitrakoot) is a hill worshipped as a form of Lord Rama, not linked to the Mandhata legend.  (c) Wrong — Amarkantak, in Anuppur district, is revered as the source of the Narmada (and Son) river, but has no 'Mandhata' association.  (d) Wrong — Maheshwar, on the Narmada in Khargone district, is known for Ahilyabai Holkar's fort and its historical identity as ancient Mahishmati — a different ancient name, not Mandhata.

Concept: Omkareshwar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva, situated on an island in the Narmada. The island's older name, Mandhata, comes from a legendary king of the solar (Ikshvaku) dynasty said to have attained Shiva's grace here through penance — so the same pilgrimage site carries two names: one geographic/mythic (Omkareshwar, from the Om-shaped island) and one dynastic (Mandhata, from the king).

State PCS 2021 Q33 — Madhya Pradesh GK PYQ with Answer

State PCS 2021 Q33 — Madhya Pradesh GK PYQ with Answer