'Lord Shiva's tears'; Two historic temples in spotlight after Balochistan declares independence

Hours after Balochistan declared Independence, all attention shifted to two historic shrines in the rugged landscape — Hinglaj Mata Temple and Katas Raj Temple.

Many dossiers showing the temples' historic connection with India are currently grabbing attention. Hinglaj Mata Temple, located in the Lasbela district, carries great relevance in Hinduism as it is considered to be the site where Sati’s head fell. The temple is situated in the hills and is highly revered by Baloch Hindu communities.

Katas Raj Shiva Temple in Chakwal is another temple, lying close to Punjab province in Pakistan, which is totally inaccessible due to the current India-Pakistan tensions and geographical location. It is believed that the Katas Kund River was formed by the tears of Lord Shiva over the death of Sati.

The temple has even been mentioned in the works of Adi Shankaracharya. With tighter control and religious persecution post-partition, the rituals in this temple are not as good as in its heydays. However, the temple continues to draw attention from Hindus all across the world for the legend associated with it.

The news about the temples came to the spotlight after Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma talked highly of the shared heritage India cherishes with Balochistan.