According to the 15th century text
Ekalinga Mahatmya, the original temple at Eklingji was constructed by the 8th century ruler
Bappa Rawal. The original temple and
Vigraha (idol) were destroyed during invasions by the
Delhi Sultanate rulers. The earliest extant idol was installed by
Hamir Singh (14th century), who also carried out extensive renovations to the main temple.
Rana Kumbha (15th century) rebuilt the temple, in addition to constructing a
Vishnu temple. His 1460 inscription describes him as "the personal servant of Ekling". In the late 15th century,
Ghiyath Shah of
Malwa Sultanate attacked Mewar, and devastated Eklingji's temple. Kumbha's son
Rana Raimal (r. 1473–1509) defeated and captured him, and obtained a ransom for his release. With this ransom, Raimal patronized the last major rebuilding of the temple complex, and installed the present murti at the main temple. Originally, the temple likely belonged to the
Pashupata sect, and was subsequently in the custody of the
Nath sect. In the 16th century, it came under the control of the
Ramanandis. == References ==