The temple, which was the center of religious defense during the Mughal invasion, is very ancient. History: Alakhnath Temple, named after Naga Baba Alkhia of Anand Akhara, encompasses a very ancient history spread over 84 bighas located on Kila Road. This temple was the center of religious defense during the invasion of Mughals.
It is said that Shivalinga itself appeared in the middle of the banyan tree. During the invasion of Mughal rulers, Anand Akhara had sent Naga Baba Alakhiya here to save the reputation of the temple and religion. He not only kept the temple complex safe from the Mughal invaders, but also preserved the Alakhnath temple for future generations by starting the Guru-Shishya tradition. Baba Alakhiya stayed here and did penance and also got the temple established.
People come from far and wide to see the Shivalinga that appears in the middle of the banyan tree in the Alakhnath temple. Temple priest Salone Shyam says that Bholenath also fulfills the wishes of the devotees with the same spirit with which they come here. After Alkhiya Baba, in 1008 Suraj Giri, Naga Baba Dutt Giri and Kamal Giri took over the throne of the temple, then Dev Giri Maharaj remained on the throne for 24 years. Dharam Giri and after him child Giri came here at the age of 9 and devoted his entire life. Now his disciple Kalu Giri Maharaj is looking after the arrangements of the temple since 2016. The mausoleums of the Mahants who held the throne of the temple are also built in the temple premises itself.
According to priest Salone Shyam, the temple has developed rapidly in the last few years. After its inclusion in the Nath temples in the year 2022, the security arrangements of the temple have also been improved. Ram-Sita’s court, Shani temple, Shiva marriage tableau and Vishnu court tableau have been built in the temple premises. A 51 feet high statue of Hanuman has been installed at the main entrance of the temple. Crowds of devotees gather in the temple premises on festivals like Sawan, Shivratri etc. About 25 saints and monks live in the temple premises.
Baba Alakhnath is straightforward and truthful to the devotees.
60 year old Suman, who has been coming to the temple for the last 40 years, said that Baba Alakhnath is very truthful. Whatever I asked for in life, I have got it till date. Even at this age I come here daily. Ramesh told that he used to sell goods on a cart, but never progressed. For the last five years, I go to work only after seeing Baba, now I am satisfied with my earnings. I have full faith in Baba. Muslims are prohibited from entering the temple. It is written outside the Alakhnath temple that entry of Muslims is prohibited. However, according to temple priest Salone Shyam, this board was installed keeping in mind the circumstances of that time. At present only anti-social elements are prohibited from entering the temple.
