Sunday, January 16, 2011

Maa Chandi Devi Temple at Haridwar

Location: Neel Parvat, Haridwar
Constructed In: 1929

Situated on the top of Neel Parvat, in Haridwar, Chandi Devi Temple is one of the most famous temples of India. Considered to be one of the Shaktipeeths of North India, this place is of great religious significance. It is said to have the power to fulfill the wishes of devotees and this is why it is also known as Siddhpeetha. As per a legend associated with the temple, Goddess Chandika Devi rested on at Neel Parvat, for a short while, after slayings Demon kings - Shumbh and Nishumbha. The temple was built to welcome her back. The presiding deity of this temple is 'Chandi Devi', a form of Shakti.



Chandi Devi Temple was built by the reigning king of Kashmir - Suchat Singh, in 1929. However, the main idol at the temple is said to have been installed by Adi Shankaracharya, one of the greatest Hindu priests, in the 8th century. The temple is open throughout the year for the devotees, from 6 am to 8 pm, on a normal day. The morning aarti at the temple begins at 5.30 in the morning. Right now, Chandi Devi Temple is managed by the Mahants. However, it is in the process of forming a trust for its management.

You can get auto rickshaw, cycle rickshaw, tongas and taxis for reaching Chandi Devi temple, from any part of Haridwar. You can also opt for the trekking-route, of about 3 km, from Chandighat. Another mode of reaching the main shrine is through the cable car, which is less time taking as well as adventurous. It hardly takes 20-25 minutes to reach the holy shrine this way. Pilgrims visit this temple throughout the year to seek the holy blessings of Goddess Chandi. The temple of Anjana Devi, the mother of Lord Hanuman is merely 200 meter from this temple.

The temple of Chandi Devi is situated atop the Neel Parvat on the other bank of river Ganga and was constructed in 1929 AD by the King of Kashmir, Suchat Singh. Legend has it that Chanda-Munda the army chief of the local demon king, Shumbha-Nishumbha, was killed by Goddess Chandi here after which the place got the name Chandi Devi. Chandi Devi Temple is now accessible by a ropeway also, which starts near Gauri Shanker Temple.

Chandidevi temple is one of the popular shaktipeethas in North India. It is also called siddhapitha as it is believed that the Goddess Chandi fulfills the wishes of her devotees. The pilgrims can visit the temple by the ropeway in around 5 minutes while the steep climb by steps takes over 45 minutes. The main image at Chandidevi temple is said to have been installed by Adi Shankaracharya in 8th century A.D.

No comments:

Post a Comment