Madhava
Shesha Madhava
Shitala Ghat, lower shrine
History & traditions
The survey lists this Vishnu image in the lower shrine at Shitala Ghat. Confirm which riverfront steps are open and ask for Shesha Madhava locally.
Shesha is the serpent associated with Vishnu. The Kashi Khanda describes a Shesha Tirtha and worship of Shesha Madhava there. The survey’s modern landmark is the lower Shitala Ghat shrine, which can require a different approach when the river rises.
Deity & sacred image
- Deity or sacred figure
- Vishnu in the form listed as Shesha Madhava
- Idol or shrine image
- The sources identify the deity. The image’s appearance and material are unconfirmed.
PILGRIMAGE CONTEXT
Madhava
Madhava is a name of Vishnu. In the Kashi Khanda, Bindu Madhava describes to Agnibindu forms of Vishnu associated with particular tirthas, or sacred sites. Their names may preserve a connection to a ghat, well or old bathing place, while the present worship site can be inside a different host shrine.
SKANDA PURANA
In the Kashi Khanda
Read Vishnu’s account to Agnibindu for the traditional tirtha associated with this form. The guide’s field and temple references describe the present-day approach.
Browse the Kashi Khanda reading guide