By Sakshi Arora
In the heart of Western Tibet lies Mount Kailash standing at 6638 metres as a majestic figure drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. With a peak which is not just another towering presence in the Himalayas, Mount Kailash is renowned as the ‘Centre of the universe’ by millions. For centuries, Mount Kailash has been a symbolic figure in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism and the Bon faith. About the mountainMount Kailash’s isolated location and shape make it one of the revered spiritual sites. Numerous ancient traditions identify it with Mount Meru, which is the mythical cosmic mountain considered the axis mundi or centre of the universe. The idea of a sacred axis, a place where heaven and Earth meet, is common across every culture. Mount Kailash holds a special place in the hearts of devotees from various faiths, and in Hinduism, it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, where he meditates in peace with his wife Parvati and Nandi. Legends have it that they have also heard the churning of the ocean (Samudra manthan) and the cosmic dance of Shiva or Shiva tandava from the region. Also Read: Mount Kailash, A Spiritual Spot Where People Age Faster! In Buddhism, the mountain is considered sacred as the home of Demchok, a deity associated with bliss and enlightenment and in Jainism, Mount Kailash holds a sacred spot where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhantha, achieved moksha. For the Bon religion, Kailash is an important mountain which is the centre of all their spiritual practices. This cross-religious reverence makes Kailash one of the most sacred places. Beyond being a spiritual figure, Mount Kailash is also the birthplace of most important and significant rivers of Asia which are Sutlej, Indus, Karnali and Brahmaputra. These rivers sustain millions of people and the also reinforces the origin of civilisation and life. Many who have started or journeyed to Kailash have claimed that they can hear sacred sounds like ‘Om’ chanting and the rhythmic beat of Shiva’s drum, especially during meditation or at dawn or at dusk. Adding to its uniqueness, the mountain’s shadow during sunset is said to form a perfect swastika, and many from across the world gather to observe it. The significance of Mount Kailash is truly unparalleled, and it is far more than just a mountain. The unique geography of divine presence commands across multiple faiths. Mount Kailash remains a place for quick spiritual transformation and deeper understanding of the universe.