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Madhya Pradesh Temples

Kaal Bhairav Temple

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Kaal Bhairav Temple is counted among one of the most religious temples of Madhya Pradesh. It is located in the town of Adegaon and is a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva linked with annihilation. Temples that are related to Bhairava are present within or near most Jyotirlinga temples. Out of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, there are 5 Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra State (Get details here). There are also the sacred twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva which can be found all across India. Additionally, Lord Shiva is counted among the important deity of the Hindu religion and his name is referred in many forms in the ancient Hindu mythology too.

Kaal Bhairav Temple History

There is a legend surrounding the evolution of Bhairava. People say that this can be traced back to the conversation between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu in ‘Shiv Maha-Puran’. When Vishnu asked Brahma about who can be the supreme creator of the Universe, the later considered himself and said that everybody should worship him.

This angered Lord Shiva who then took the form of Bhairava to punish Brahma. It is said that Lord Shiva beheaded one of the five heads of Lord Brahma and since then the later has four heads. Kala Bhairava in its form is seen carrying the severed head of Lord Brahma.

Lord Shiva later was guilty of the crime of killing a Brahmin and hence carried the disembodied skull for twelve years. He roamed as Bhikshatana, a mendicant until he was released from the sin.

In the form of the frightful Bhairava, Lord Shiva is said to be protecting each of the Shakti peeths in the sub-continent. Each of the Shakti peeth temples is accompanied by a deity which is dedicated to Bhairava.

It has been said that the nature of Bhairava is Tamasi which refers to the fact that he can take you from Tamas to Moksha. Pilgrims believe that he has the power to remove all of the human sufferings which is a serious pain that an individual feels in their body and mind. Apart from that, he also eradicates all difficult problems, anxieties, and greed.

With regard to the mythological concept, Kala Bhairava is said to live on the crematory grounds as he does not want to be associated with Maya, also known as the illusionary world. The Lord’s Sadhana yields fast results and he can be pleased with very little offerings. There are many poor and people who are suffering from various problems that come to seek solace at this wonderful temple.

Even people of all caste and creed believe that they will achieve Moksha fast when they worship Bhairava. It is always advisable to first ask your Guru for permission before you start any Sadhana.

Significance of Kaal Bhairav Temple

The idol of Shri Kaal Bhairav Nath Swami Temple at Adegaon in Madhya Pradesh is often found with a frowning face coupled with angry eyes, sharp tiger’s teeth, and flaming hair. He is naked except for a garland made of skulls and a coiled snake around his neck.

The deity has four hands in which he carries a noose, trident, drum, and skull. Bhairava is often accompanied by a dog and is said to be originated in the Hindu legends. It is a popular and sacred place of worship for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike.

Kaal Bhairav Temple is mostly visited by tourists from India and Nepal. In addition, this also marks as an important deity of the Newars. All the traditional settlements of Newars have at least a temple of Bhairava.

Traditionally, the temples of Kala Bhairav is the considered to be the supreme God in the rural villages of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, where he is referred to as ‘Bhaivara/Annadhani’ Vairavar.

In Karnataka, the Lord Bhairava temple stands as the supreme God for the community and is commonly referred to as ‘Gowdas.’ In the Gangadikara Gowda caste especially, he is considered the caretaker and punisher.

Bhairava himself has eight manifestations and is also called as the Ashta Bhairava. Devotees believe that a Sadhak should feed dogs Halwa Puri on every Saturday morning or evening to seek respite from all problems.

Kaal Bhairav Temple Timings

  • Kaal Bhairav Temple remains open from 6 am to 8 pm.
  • The pilgrims, however, will have to note that the shrine remains closed from 12 noon to 2 pm.
  • The temple timings may differ during important festivals and occasions.

Kaal Bhairav Temple Food Timings

  • Prasad or food is offered to the pilgrims after 2 pm.
  • It mainly consists of sweets and dry fruits.
  • Devotees can also offer seasonal fruits to the deity during their visit.

Festivals celebrated at Kaal Bhairav Temple

  • Bhairava Ashtamiis one of the important festivals that are observed in the temple premises. It is celebrated by pilgrims commemorating the day Kal Bhairav appeared on earth. People consider this occasion to be highly auspicious and it is celebrated on Krishna Paksha Ashtami of the Margashirsha month of Hindu calendar. It is a day of special prayers and rituals.
  • Shiva Ratri is also considered to be pious and is observed with great pomp in this temple. Thousands of devotees gather from all parts of the surrounding town and offer prayers and seek blessings from the Almighty. They also offer Prasad and the temple is well decorated with oil lamps on this occasion.

Poojas and Rituals at Kaal Bhairav Temple

  • A ritual is a set of actions, performed mainly for their symbolic value. It may be prescribed by the traditions of a community, including a religious community.  In this Kaal Bhairav Temple, the deity is offered arati during the morning and the evening.
  • Lord Bhairava is worshiped by offering or pouring water, milk, honey, curd, ghee, vibhuthi or sacred ash and sandalwood paste. This is called Abhishekam.
  • One can offer bilwa leaves along with flowers like lotus, jasmine, and sankhapushpi.
  • Food offerings need to be presented before the deity. An incense stick and a diya lit with ghee should also be burnt.
  • It is important to wear neat and clean clothes when you worship the Lord.

How to Reach Kaal Bhairav Temple

  • By Air- Adegaon‘s nearest airport is Chhindwara Airport situated at 53.2 KM distance. In addition, the Jabalpur Airport is only 117.2 km from Adegaon. The Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport is located at 175.3 km from this place.
  • By Train- The nearest railway station to Adegaon is Karaboh which is located in and around 36.8 km from Mamakudi. Some other railway stations include Seoni railway station and Bhoma railway station which is located at a distance of 41.1 km and 44.5 km respectively from Mamakudi.
  • By Road- Adegaon is located around 63.7 km away from its district head quarter Narsinghpur. The other nearest district head quarters is Seoni which is situated at a 35.7 km distance from Adegaon. The nearest town to reach this place is Amarwara which is located at a distance of 17.9 km.

Hotels in Madhya Pradesh: Where to stay

There might not be quite a lot of hotels in Adegaon but one can look for accommodation in and around this place. Madhya Pradesh offers an array of living options for its tourists. From dormitories to villas, you can look for your choice as per to your needs. The prices, however, will depend on the type of accommodation you choose. To enjoy all the modern amenities and fine luxury, there are five-star hotels that provide free pickup and drops apart from their complimentary breakfast option. The budget hotels, on the other hand, offer decent living with a plethora of fooding options.

The hotel staff also arranges for local sightseeing tours as per to the client’s request. And they also have internet connection for the visitors. Some hotels also have private balconies for clients to enjoy the beauty of nature. And for party lovers, one can opt for private lounges and hotel discs that remain open for quite late in the night. However, most of these hotels are available online and it is advised to book your hotel in advance to avoid any last-minute delay.

Where to eat

Madhya Pradesh is a home to food lovers visiting India. From Continental to Chinese to Indian, a traveler is sure to splurge on the variety of food that’s on offer here. For people who would like to taste the unique flavor of the complete Indian food, a Thali is recommended. It is a meal that consists of rice, dal, pickle, papad, vegetable curries, paneer and a sweet. This is available at a competitive price range and is available across various eating joints. For people looking for light food, the breakfast options are sure to tempt your taste buds. Poha, jalebi, samosa are some of the popular food that is loved by both natives and tourists here.

For people looking for fine dining options, there are many international cuisines that can be enjoyed at a moderate price too. From Thai to Mexican and Italian, the rich herbs and spices used in the preparation of the food pave the way for a delightful taste. A client can also customize one’s food habits and inform the chef in advance. Some of the eating joints also arrange for music and local bands for people to enjoy while relishing the unique taste of the food that is served here.

Nearby Temples

  • Upparpeth Maruti Temple- This temple is located only at a distance of 4 km from Adegaon. The travel duration from Upparpeth Maruti Temple to Adegaon Desh is around 1 Hoursif your travel speed is 50 KM per Hour. It is located nearly west to Adegaon and traveling from Upparpeth Maruti Temple to Adegaon Desh is connected by more than one route.
  • Sri Laxmi Temple- There is also another famous Laxmi temple that is visited by pilgrims who visit Adegaon. Goddess Laxmi symbolizes wealth and prosperity and is highly popular among devotees in India.
  • Sri Dev Brahmachari Ram Mandir- This is another popular shrine that devotees visit while paying a visit to Shri Kala Bhairava Nath Swami Temple at Adegaon. One can offer Prasad and seek blessings from the Lord.
  • Sri Dev Murlidhar temple– One can find solace and peace when paid a visit to this temple. Bhajans are organized during the evening inside the temple premises which is participated by devotees in large numbers.

The Great Stupa- Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

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The Great Stupa
The Great Stupa

The Great Stupa is not only an important Buddhist monument but also one of the oldest stone structure in India. The stupa is a Sanskrit term that means ‘heap’. It was built by Emperor Ashoka in honor of Lord Buddha in 3rd century BCE. The Stupa was built during the Mauryan period. It is located in Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh. It has its listing in UNESCO’s world heritage sites. It is believed that this Stupa houses ashes of Buddha.

Originally the Stupa was a simple structure. However, it got destroyed in the 2nd century BCE. The Stupa reached its final form after repairing and enlarging it in the 1st century BCE. Currently, the Stupa is 54 feet high and 120 feet high.

The Great Stupa is located 46 km north-east of Bhopal, on the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, India. One can visit the Stupa from Sunrise to Sunset.  The Stupa remains open for visitors from 8 am to 5 pm.

What is the architecture of The Great Stupa?

Every Stupas has three identical features.

  • Anda (hemispherical mound): The Anda is a dome-shaped mound of dirt. It was made to cover Buddha’s remains. The earliest Stupas contained actual relics of the Buddha. With time, the hemispherical mound has got a grander symbolic meaning. It represents the mountain home of the gods at the center of the universe.
  • Harmika (A square railing): The Anda is surrounded by a Harmika. It represents the world mountain. It is inspired by a square railing or fence that surrounded the mound of dirt, marking it as a sacred burial site.
  • Chattra (A central pillar supporting a triple-umbrella form): The Chattra is a triple umbrella structure. It represents the three Jewels or Triantha of Buddhism—the Buddha, the Dharma (doctrine), and the Sangha (community). These three Jewels are the keys to a true understanding of the faith It was placed over the mound to protect it from the elements.

The other unique features of the Sanchi Stupa is:

  • Medhi (A circular terrace): Medhi is a circular terrace. It is surrounded by a similar three-bar railing. The railing supports the Anda and raises it off the ground.  It likely served as a platform for ritual practice.
  • Toranas(wall with decorated gateways): The wall is marked in light blue highlights. The toranas are marked in yellow. Torans are the wall that surrounds the entire structure, with its trademark three horizontal stone bars. The Toranas of the Great Stupa are the greatest achievement of Sanchi sculpture. Each gateway is made up of two squared posts. These posts are topped by capitals of sculptured animals or dwarfs, which are surmounted by three architraves.

All the elements are covered with relief sculpture that depicts the events of the Buddha’s life. There are Jataka stories -about the Buddha’s previous lives, scenes of early Buddhism, and auspicious symbols. The names of donors are also inscribed. The most notable is the ivory workers of  Vidisha.

What is the significance of The Great Stupa?

Stupas were made to remind the Buddhist practitioner of the Buddha and his teachings. These were made almost 2,500 years after Buddha’s death. The practice of building stupas spread with the Buddhist doctrine to Nepal and Tibet, Bhutan, Thailand, Burma, China and the United States where large Buddhist communities are centered.

Building Stupas has Karmic benefits for the Buddhists. Karma plays a key role in Buddhism and Hinduism. Karma means the energy generated by a person’s actions and the ethical consequences of those actions. A Buddhists believe that building a Stupa would help them be born in a good location and they will not suffer from extreme poverty.

Buddhists visit Stupas to perform rituals that help them to understand the Buddha’s teachings. Buddha’s teachings are pointed in Four Noble Truths. Once a person fully understands The Four Noble Truths, they are able to achieve Enlightenment  (the complete knowledge of the dharma).

The Four Noble Truths are:

  • Life is suffering. Suffering means Rebirth.
  • The cause of suffering is Desire.
  • The cause of desire must be overcome.
  • When desire is overcome, there is no more suffering.

Buddha means ‘The Enlightened One’. Buddhist practitioners seek the knowledge that the Buddha gained on his way to achieving Enlightenment.

Sanchi Stupa
Sanchi Stupa

What are the timings of The Great Stupa?

  • The Great Stupa is open for the visitors on all days.
  • The timings are from 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.

What are the entry fees of the Great Stupa?

The entry fees of the Great Stupa is:

  • Entry fee for Indians: Rs. 10.
  • Entry fee for Foreigners: Rs. 250.
  • Entry fee for Children up to 15 years: Free.

What is the best time to visit The Great Stupa?

  • The best time to visit Sanchi Stupa is during the months of November to March. Majority of the festivals take place during this time.
  • The climate of the great Stupa remains moderately hot throughout the year.
  • Avoid making a trip during the hot summer months.

How to reach The Great Stupa?

  • Air: Nearest airport for reaching Sanchi stupas is Raja Bhoj airport at Bhopal city. Sanchi lies in 55 km north-east of Bhopal airport.
  • Train:  The nearest railway station is Bhopal. It is connected with direct trains from major cities.
  • Road:  Sanchi is well connected by road with other cities. It lies on Bhopal-Sagar state highway.

Khajrana Ganesh

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Khajrana Ganesh Temple at Indore in Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is located at the center of India and is famous for its brilliant architecture and natural surroundings. It is home to the fine specimens of architecture and is also a famous pilgrimage destination as well. Indore is a beautiful place which attracts pilgrims from across various parts of the nation. A tourist who visits this place opines that each part of Indore is different from the other. People in this modern world are often tired with their hectic and busy work schedules and places like Indore in Madhya Pradesh offers you a fine way to seek solace and relief. Many tourists from around the world visit this place to offer prayers and rejuvenate their mind and soul. The Khajrana Ganesh Temple at Indore is one of the most visited shrines in this city owing to the history and religious beliefs associated with it. It is said that the natives have a lot of faith in the Lord and seek blessings as well. This temple is highly popular and is visited by anyone who visits Indore.

Khajrana Ganesh

Khajrana Ganesh History

  • It is said that this holy place of worship was originally built by Ahilya Bai Holkar which was later subjected to some last minute beautification by different historic personalities.
  • According to many people, it is said that whoever comes at this place and wishes for something, gets it fulfilled within a very short duration. All the obstacles of the devotee also get eliminated as well. That is the reason for pilgrims gathering here and praying for getting a baby or some work related problems.
  • In addition, the religious importance of this temple increases manifold as there is also a dargah located nearby this temple. This is dedicated to Nahar Sayed who as the natives say, is believed to be buried headless here. For Muslims, this place stands auspicious and holds a great religious importance which is visited by a dozen of people every day.
  • Although the Khajrana Ganesh Temple has been presently taken over by the government, yet the shrine is managed by the Bhatt family. It is trusted that keeping in mind the end goal to protect the monument from the ruler, Aurangzeb, the deity was kept in a well and in 1735, it was taken out from the well and a shrine was built up in 1735 by Ahilya Bai Holkar who belongs to the Holkar line of the Maratha Empire.

Significance of the Khajrana Ganesh Temple

  • The Khajrana Ganesh temple stands tall for being the home to the famous Lord Ganapati idol in Indore. The deity measures eight meters in length.
  • The idol of Lord Ganapati is made up of a mixture comprising of limestone, jaggery, bricks, mud and the soil and water brought from all important pilgrimage destinations. The deity is believed to generate positive energy on the devotees.
  • The frame of the Lord’s idol is developed using precious metals and offers a wonderful look.
  • The enormous statue of Ganapati is an important pilgrimage destination for all tourists who visit Indore and devotees gather to offer their prayers at this temple especially on Wednesdays and Sundays.
  • On a visit to this temple, you will discover that the gate, outer and upper sections of the Garbhagriha are made up of silver. There are paintings of various festivals inscribed on it.
  • The eyes of the Ganapati idol are made up of diamonds and it was donated by an Indore businessman.
  • This holy place of worship was a small hut which later became a huge structure. Pilgrims from around the world offer gold, diamond and precious jewels as a donation.
  • There are several shrines within the temple premises and these are dedicated to numerous Gods, besides Lord Ganesh.
  • There are no entrance fees needed in order to pay a visit to the temple.
  • The temple has a committee with members who help in the administration of the temple activities. Not every priest can worship the God. There is a list of priests who have the permission to offer pooja at this temple.
  • Visitors are not allowed to take pictures or videos inside the temple premises.
  • A pilgrim is also not allowed to take any pets inside the holy shrine.

Khajarana Ganesh Temple Timings

  • The holy shrine is open for pilgrims all throughout the year. It also remains open during the public holidays as well.
  • Khajrana Ganesh Temple opens its door for the devotees from as early as 5 A.M. and is available for darshan or visit until 12 P.M.
  • Khajrana Ganesh Temple reopens again during the evening from 4 A.M. and finally closes at 9 P.M.
  • A pilgrim can complete his darshan within 30 minutes on a normal day.

Khajarana Ganesh Temple Food Timings

  • A visitor can buy food or Prasad to offer to the Lord on the way to the temple.
  • Prasad consists mainly of sweets, fruits, and coconuts and is available for pilgrims after 12 P.M.

Festivals celebrated at the Khajrana Ganesh Temple

  • Vinayaka Chaturthi is one of the most important festivals that are observed in this Khajrana Ganesh Temple for Lord Ganapati. It is celebrated every year during the months of August and September. Lots of devotees gather to take part in this pious occasion. There is also fair that is organized in the Khajrana region.
  • Raksha Bandhan is the celebration of a bond between a sister and a brother is also celebrated with great enthusiasm in this temple. Sisters tie a thread on their brother’s wrists and pray for their long lives as a part of this festival.
  • Diwali or the festival of lights sees people lighting candles and oil lamps at their homes. The temple is well decorated during this occasion and many pilgrims gather to offer prayers to the Almighty.

Poojas and Rituals at Khajrana Ganesh

  • The Lord is bathed in the morning and is decorated with clothes made of fine material and jewelry on special occasions. Red flowers along with incense sticks and oil lamps are a must in the pooja and vermilion paste is applied on the deity’s forehead. The priest recites the Ganapati mantras and devotees offer their pooja. Special sweet also called as modak is also offered to Lord Ganapati.
  • Arati takes place twice in this temple. The priest does the morning arati from 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. The evening arati or the sandhya arati takes place between 8 P.M. to 8:40 P.M.
  • Bhajans or songs sung in praise of the God are also organized in this temple. The poetic content of these songs also consists of a wide category. Mira or Kabir bhajans are assumed to be the highest with regards to its literal quality. The lowest poetic form is the dhun, which can be referred to nothing more than a musical version of a chant.

How to Reach: Road, Rail, and Air

  • By Air– In order to visit this auspicious Khajarana Ganesh Temple, a tourist can travel by air and reach the Indore airport. This is the nearest airport that connects it with the temple. There are local cabs available outside the airport which will take you to this sacred shrine.
  • By Train– There are regular trains from Indore that connects it with other major cities of the sub-continent. The Indore Junction is the nearest railway station for people traveling by train.
  • By Road– Indore is very well connected through roads as well. It has proper roads and connects various parts of Madhya Pradesh. There are government bus services that travel to and fro from Indore to other states as well.

Hotels in Madhya Pradesh: Where to stay

There are reliable and clean places of accommodation for all tourists who visits Indore. If you want to relax and enjoy the luxuries of life, take a pick from the exclusive resorts that come with their signature restaurants. On the other hand, you can also opt to save up on your expenses by putting up at budget hotels. Most of these lodging inns provide complimentary breakfast for its clients. There are also rooms available with private balconies. You can choose the room you want depending on the number of travelers accompanying you. Rooms of all sizes are available with all the modern amenities. For single voyagers, there are dormitories available that provide good stay at competitive prices.  It is advisable for tourists to book the hotel rooms in advance to avoid any disappointment. Pre-booking rooms will also facilitate the pickup and drop services provided by the hotel staff. Moreover, you can also bargain and get lucky when it comes to paying the rent of the rooms in advance.

Where to eat

Indore in Madhya Pradesh offers a variety of both traditional and contemporary cuisines when it comes to satisfying one’s appetite. India is famous for its spices and the variety which is evident as you move one part of the nation to another. When planning a visit to the famous Khajrana Ganesh temple, it is a must to taste the street food of Indore like poha, samosa, jalebi and moong dal ki halwa. From snacks to main meals, a visitor is bound to fall in love with its sweets and milk offerings. The traditional meal or Thali comprises mainly of rice, roti, sabzi, dal, papad, pickle, salad and dahi. There are also options available like tandoori chicken and kebabs for nonvegetarian lovers as well.

For people looking for fine dining, there are also various eating joints that pave a way for international cuisines as well. From Chinese to Thai and Continental, take your pick from the awesome spread and satisfy your senses. In addition, the cost that one has to bear is very reasonable and the restaurants are also equipped with good ambience. High-end city eateries also arrange live performances for their tourists as well. Most of the people visiting Indore also opt for takeaway namkeens and sweets on their return from the temple.

Nearby Temples

  • Bijasen Tekri- Bijasen Tekri refers to a small shrine that is dedicated to Bijasen Mata. This temple was constructed in 1920, on the top of a hill which is also called as Tekri. This temple is located at a distance of 9 km from the railway station but is close to the airport. It just takes two minutes drive to reach the temple from the airport. There was once a guest house of the Holkars which paved the way for a Border Security Force Arms Museum. The hill presents a panoramic view of the surrounding and the nearby area has been converted into a garden with a small lake in it. A fair is organized every year during the festival of Navaratri.
  • Gomatgiri- This is a very popular pilgrimage destination for the followers of Jain religion. It is a small hillock that is situated near Indore and is the home to a 21 feet Gomateshwar idol. There are 24 marble temples built with shikhars that are dedicated to each of the 24 Tirthankaras of the Jain religion. There is a lodging facility and a restaurant for the benefit of the travelers and the M.P. government in 1981 had donated this hillock to the Jain Samaj.
  • Bada Ganapati- It refers to the deity of Lord Ganesha that measure 25 feet. It is said that the Idol has been built here following a fantasy of an Avantika (Ujjain) citizen, named Shri Dadhich. It was constructed in the year 1875. It boasts of being the largest Ganesha idol in the whole world. Thousands of pilgrims visit this place every year and seek blessings.
  • Annapurna Temple- This sacred shrine is dedicated to the Goddess of nourishment, Devi Annapurna. This temple is distinct as it has no Mandap or pillared halls. It has Indo-Dravidian architecture with the main gate of the temple decorated with four life-sized elephants made of plaster of Paris.

Baglamukhi – Pitambara Peeth at Datia

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Baglamukhi at Datia in Madhya Pradesh consists of a Hindu temple and an Ashram. It is also called as ‘Tapasthali’ as there are many mythological and real people who have considered this to be a supreme place for meditation.

The power of Shakti of Mother Goddess is worshiped here and it is an important place of worship. The Shivalinga of Shree Vankhandeswar Shiva is inspected and approved by the Archaeological Survey of India to be of the same age as that of the Mahabharata.

Baglamukhi History

Goddess Baglamukhi is also known as Pitambara Maa. Once upon a time, there was a huge storm that erupted over the Earth. As it threatened to destroy the entire creation, all the Gods assembled in the Saurashtra region. Goddess Baglamukhi emerged from the ‘Haridra Sarovara’, and appeased by the prayers of the gods, calmed down the storm.

Another popular legend surrounding this temple states that there was a demon named Madan who underwent penance and won the boon of vak siddhi, according to which whatever he said, happened the exact way. Starting to take his boon as a point to torture innocent people, the heavenly livings were severely enraged, thereby worshipping Baglamukhi.

The Goddess stopped the demon`s rampage by gripping his tongue and silencing his speech forever. However, before she could kill him, he requested her that he is worshiped alongside the goddess, and she yielded. That is why Madan (the demon) is shown with her together.

Shri Pitambara Peetha is counted by the devotees among the most famous temples of Baglamukhi which was established by Bramhaleen Pujyapaad RashtraGuru Anant Shree Swami Ji Maharajin 1920s. He also established the temple of goddess Dhumavati within the ashram. Dhumavati and Baglamukhi are the two of the ten Mahavidyas.

Pujyapaad was also referred as ‘Swamiji’or ‘Maharaj’ by the devotees. There is no individual who had any information about either his identity or his place of origin. Moreover, he too did not disclose any such facts to anyone. However, he was a Parivrajakachrya Dandi Swami, who stayed on in Datia for a long period of time. He was and still is a spiritual icon for many who visit the Peeth or have been associated with him directly or indirectly.

During the Indo-China war, A Rashtra Anushtan Yagya was started in this temple which later was completed successfully. Maharaj Ji then thought of establishing the Dhumavati temple and also penned down the literature for the same.

In the year 1965 or 1971, Sri Datiya Pitambara Peeth has replied with vigor and established a spiritual attack by Tantrik Anushthanam to thwart the enemy’s efforts. The retreat of the enemy’s forces took place with the completion of the anusthanam. The same was organized during the Pakistani invasion on the Kargil front.

Significance of Baglamukhi Temple

Shri Pitambara Peetha is one of the most famous Shakti Peetha of Baglamukhi Devi at Datia in Madhya Pradesh. It is situated at a distance of approximately 75 km from Gwalior and approximately 30 km from Jhansi.

Pujyapaad Swamiji was a strong devotee of the Goddess Pitambara. He had a natural inclination towards the Sanskrit language but also possessed sufficient knowledge of Urdu, Persian and Arabic, English, Pali, and Prakrit languages. In addition, he was fond of classical music and various great classical musicians of that time used to visit the ashram.

Pujyapaad had led innumerable gatherings and associations for the protection and welfare of both the humanity and the country in large. Living legend who knows about Swamiji is Pt Shri Gaya Prasad Nayak Ji (Babuji) of Garhi Malehara. Pujya Swamiji Maharaj and Babuji’s Guruji were Gurubhai.

Some of the musicians who visited the ashram comprise of Pundit Gundai Maharaj, Siyaram Tiwari, Rajan and Sajan Mishra, Dagar Bandhu etc. One of the greatest classical musicians Acharya Brihaspati was the follower of Pujyapaad.

Moreover, one can also find many temples of Parshuram, Hanuman, Kal Bhairav and other god and goddess stretched across the large area of Ashram.

The Peeth is currently maintained by a trust.

The Ashram also maintains the Sanskrit library which was established by the Pujyapaad. One can get sufficient information that explains the history of the Ashram and the secret Mantras of various kinds of Sadhanas and tantras.

The blessings of Guruji helped Ustad Aadil Khan to recover his lost voice and from then on he became a disciple of Shri Maharaj-Ji.

One of the distinct specialties of the Ashram can be referred to the approach to spread the light of Sanskrit language to young children, free of cost. The Ashram also conducts Sanskrit debates across the years.

A devotee can see the Haridra Lake located in front of the main temple and at the back; there are an office and other buildings.

No individual is allowed to carry leather items in the form of a waist belt, wallet, purse etc inside the temple premises even after removing your footwear.

Devotees are encouraged to wear garments in yellow color during Sadhana.

Baglamukhi Temple Timings

  • Baglamukhi temple opens at 7 AM and closes at 9 PM.
  • The temple remains unavailable for a visit from 12 P.M. to 2 P.M.

Baglamukhi Temple Food Timings

  • The temple provides Prasad to the devotees after 12 PM.
  • One can also offer food to the deity in the form of fruits and coconuts.
  • Generally, people offer salted prasadam to the Goddess in this temple.

Festivals celebrated at the Baglamukhi Temple

  • The major festivals that are celebrated in this temple with great pomp include Navaratri, Guru Purnima, and Maha Nirvana Din or the death anniversary of Maharaj-Ji. As per the Shakti system; Navaratri is a perfect and auspicious day to start a Sadhana. A community hawan is organized on the Ninth day of Navaratri. The markings of the Lotus feet of Guru are also worshiped on the day of Guru Purnima.
  • Vasant Panchami is celebrated with much joy.
  • Every morning Saraswati Puja is performed.
  • Evenings see the Ashram immersed in sounds of India classical music.

Baglamukhi Temple Poojas and Rituals

  • There are four arati that take place in this temple. The Morning Arati takes place at 7 A.M. and the Evening Arati happens at 7 P.M. The Shringar Arati is performed at 8:30 P.M. and the Badi Arati is completed at 9 P.M.
  • It is interesting to note that the Baglamukhi Mantra is one of the most powerful mantras to attain powers to control over enmity feeling of your opponents, be it human or animals. But one needs to practice it after passing a qualifying eligibility test and under the guidance of a Guru or a Qualified Sadhak who is authorized by the Peeth. There is a set of discipline to be observed by the practicing Sadhak both in terms of self-discipline and one need to also correctly pronounce the complete Mantra. One has to be strong enough to hold the power of the Mantra. It is strongly suggested not to venture under the influence of any novice Sadhak.

 How to Reach Baglamukhi

  • By Air – Gwalior has its own particular airplane terminal that is situated at a distance of 8 km from the primary city. Gwalior is associated via air from Mumbai, Bhopal, Indore, and Delhi. Datia, on the other hand, is 75 km far from Gwalior.
  • By Train – Pitambara Peeth is located at the entrance of Datia city. The Datia railway station is located at only 3 km from the Pitambara and Bus stand is located at the distance of 1 km. There are many autos that are available from the railway station and bus stand to reach the auspicious shrine. This route is well connected by Rail from all parts of India.
  • By Road – A traveler can visit this temple by road as well. There are a lot of states and private buses that ply regularly from all major cities. Overnight A/C tourist buses are available from Delhi (321 km), Indore (486 km), Agra (118 km) and Jaipur (350 km).

Baglamukhi Accommodation

There are many hotels and lodging facilities available for people to stay at Datia in Madhya Pradesh. At a distance of only 1-2 km from the Pitambara Peeth, there are many Dharamshala that offer good accommodation at competitive prices. For an individual visiting alone, putting up at dormitories is also a good alternative. For people looking for luxury, there are many hotels that provide pickup and drop services to airports and railway stations for its clients. In addition to that, these fine places of accommodation also come with its own exclusive restaurants. In order to avoid any confusion, it is better to book the rooms in advance.

Where to eat

Madhya Pradesh also called as the ‘heart of Incredible India’ is famous for its variety of food. From vegetarian to non-vegetarian dishes, there are a plethora of options to suit the appetite of every traveler. If you want to enjoy a complete meal then, the Thali is a good choice. It is a balanced diet that contains all the essential ingredients. Additionally, there are many breakfast options, for example, poha, jalebi, samosa etc. This state is also famous for its sweets which are made of milk and has a unique taste. A tourist visiting this place makes it a point to taste some of the namkeens that are widely popular in this region. There are many local eating joints that provide food at a reasonable price.

For people looking for fine dining, there are many high-end restaurants that provide exotic dishes and sea food as well. Although the charges are comparatively high, they provide international cuisine and live music for the audience. Moreover, one can also customize any requirement in food and there are chefs who provide services as per the requirement of the client. So, it is sure that every person is bound to enjoy some wonderful delicacies with their loved ones and make memories that are worth cherishing in one’s lifetime.

Nearby Temples

  • Balaji Dham Unnav- One can travel 17 km from here and will reach Ichha Purti temple. Unnav is seventeen kilometers from Datia Headquarters. Balaji Temple is very old temple is said to be a specimen from the Pre-Historic times. People from very distant places flock to the Balaji Sun Temple on pilgrimage.
  • Sonagiri temples- It is a very popular pilgrimage destination for the Jains, who visit the shrine in large numbers annually to worship at these beautiful temples. There are more than one hundred temples that attract visitors and tourists from distant places. Sonagir is located at 15 Km from Datia and is connected by road and train.
  • Pancham Kavi ki Toriya- It is a beautiful and natural place that is situated at a distance of 4 Km from Datia. Pilgrims visit this shrine in large numbers which are also famous for ‘Bhairav Temple’.

Devi Jagadambi Temple, Khajuraho

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Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho

India is famous for its ancient civilization and of the diverse cultures and traditions that are practiced here. There are a number of religious groups that live throughout this sub-continent.  This is a land where one finds the oldest pilgrimage in the world. The norm of pilgrimage is so evident in the cultural psyche and the number of worship places is so huge that the entire nation can be considered as one grand religious destination. The ancient facts or information about these holy places can be traced from the famous epics like the Rig Veda and the Atharva Veda. This practice had become quite common with time and is quite evident from the various sections of the Mahabharata. It mentions there are over 300 holy places situated around the nook and corner of the country. Hindus call sacred places as tirthas and the action of visiting a pilgrimage is known as tirtha-yatra. Although, the word tirtha implies river ford, steps to a stream, or place of the journey. In Vedic times the word may have concerned just those holy spots connected with water, however during the time of the Mahabharata, tirtha had come to mean any sacred spot, be it a lake, mountain, woods, or hole. Tirthas are more than physical areas, however according to the pious Hindus; these locations are considered to be the meeting point of the heaven and the earth. And one such holy place of worship consists of the Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho. It is a group of 25 shrines which is located at Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh.

Devi Jagadambi Temple, Khajuraho

Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho History

  • Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its temples are said to be built by the great rulers of the Chandela dynasty between the 10th and the 12th centuries.
  • This third sanctuary on the common stage is somewhat older than the Kandariya Mahadev and of an easier, three-section plan. This temple was most likely committed to Lord Vishnu, yet later it was dedicated to Maa Parvati and afterward Kali. A few students also believe that it might still be a Parvati shrine and that the Kali image (or Jagadambi) is really a picture of Parvati, painted dark. The sculptures around the sanctuary are again divided into three groups. A significant number of the two lower band images are dedicated to Lord Vishnu with sardulas in the inward parts. In any case, on the third and the highest band, the mithuna again come in front.
  • The Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho stands as an epitome of motherly love. The worship of the Devi was evident in the northern part of India and there are many literary resources that depict the same of that period.
  • The sacred town of Khajuraho is entirely different from any other holy city of India. It is not about religion and worshiping the deities. The sanctuaries of Khajuraho are rather acclaimed for the sensuality carved on its walls as figures.

Significance of the Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho

  • This shrine being situated towards the north direction is the home to one of the finest decorated temples of Khajuraho.
  • It is one of the oldest temples of Khajuraho and there is a huge image of the Devi in the inner sanctum or Garbha Griha.
  • This temple has a cross plan with only one set of balconies, only one Mandap, and no inner pradakshina path.
  • Belonging to the Western Group of Temples, it is beautifully carved on a smaller platform and is delicately proportioned as compared with the Kandariya Mahadev Temple.
  • The images of the deities have been constructed at prominent places in the temple’s exterior and it seems that they were functioning as more than mere decoration.
  • One can find the presence of a big sculpture of a warrior fighting with a lion bare handed just at the entrance of the temple. This is considered to be the symbol of the Chandela Dynasty.
  • The square roof of its Maha-mandapa hall is much more effortless than the octagonal roof of the Chitragupta sanctuary, which accordingly seems to be generally more lavish and developed and therefore considerably later in date than this auspicious shrine.
  • Pets are not allowed inside the temple premises.
  • A visitor needs to pay an entry fee in order to pay a visit to the temple.

The Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho Timings

  • Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho remains open for its devotees from 7 A.M. and closes at 6 P.M.
  • It remains open for all days in a week.
  • Even on public holidays, one can offer pooja at this temple.

The Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho Food Timings

  • Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho provides food to the pilgrims from 12 Noon to 2 P.M.
  • Pilgrims can offer dry fruits and sweets to the Devi while offering their prayers.

Festivals celebrated at the Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho

  • The Khajuraho dance festival is worldwide famous and also recognized by the international dancers. A large number of tourists come to participate in this event from all over the world. This special occasion in Madhya Pradesh celebrates human emotions along with the religious philosophy of the Hindu religion. It is held in the month of March for 7 days.
  • Navaratri is another event which is observed with great pomp by the pilgrims around the world. There happens to be a long queue during this festival and special poojas are performed during this day.
  • Durga Puja, Ram Navami, and Dussehra are some other important festivals that celebrate the power of good over evil. There are a large number of people who throng the temple premises during these days in order to offer pooja and seek blessings from the Devi Maa.

Poojas and Rituals at Devi Jagadambi Temple Khajuraho

  • During special occasions, the Devi is bathed using milk, water, honey, sandal, and flowers. The Lord is then offered food and incense sticks are burnt along with lamps that are lit. Special mantras are chanted and devotees visit the temple from all around the nation.
  • Devotees too wake up early in the morning and wear new and clean clothes to offer pooja at this shrine. They also fast and seek blessings of the Almighty with utter devotion.

How to Reach: Road, Rail, and Air

  • By Air– Khajuraho has direct transportation from Delhi and Varanasi with a minimum of one flight each day. Amid the peak visitor season, which is generally from the month of October to March, there are more flights that ply to and fro from Khajuraho. The airplane terminal is not extremely distant from the town and one can discover many local auto and taxi services to achieve one’s destination.
  • By Train– A visitor can also opt for railways as a means of transportation. Khajuraho is well connected to the rail network and it connects major stations as well. There are overnight trains available from Delhi and Varanasi to reach Khajuraho. However, getting a ticket during the festive season is quite difficult. Hence, one needs to book their reservations in advance to make way for a planned and hassle free travel.
  • By Road– Khajuraho can also be reached by road as well. All national and state highways are linked with this place. For example, there are many visitors who travel from Jhansi and Satna in order to reach this auspicious temple. There are many public and private cab services available from the railway station to reach the Devi Jagadambi shrine.

Hotels in Madhya Pradesh: Where to stay

Madhya Pradesh offers a wide range of accommodation facilities for the tourists who visit this state with their loved ones. From luxurious hotels to budget lodges, there are ample choices for people. One can find all the modern facilities that are coupled with a moderate price range. If needed, you can also book rooms with private balconies as well. The high-end hotels have their own spa sessions and massage corners. At a nominal price, clients can enjoy these benefits while relaxing their mind from the daily stress. For travelers who like visiting alone, there are many inns that offer rooms on a sharing basis. One can also decide to put up at dormitories as that would save up on expenses. In addition, it is vital that you book your rooms in advance in order to avoid any last minute delay.

Where to eat

Hotels in the contemporary time offer just more than providing food. It provides health club services, gym services etc to the clients. And for people who want moderations in their diet, the chef is there to serve and meet your needs just the way you want! Fine dining options are available for people who are looking for luxurious ambiance and internal cuisines. The cost will be on the higher side but is worth it considering the experience it provides. For people who want to taste the street food, there are local eating joints that provide food at a reasonable price range. The food is prepared following all the hygiene standards. From vegetarian to nonvegetarian, there are many choices for individuals who love experimenting on various delicacies. Some hotels also arrange live music performances to make your dining a fantastic experience.

Nearby Temples

  • Kandariya Mahadev Temple– This shrine lies to the west of the Lakshmana temple. It is the tallest and the most developed temple in Khajuraho with regard to its architecture and sculpture. It follows a five-shrine design and has been built by the King Vidhyadhara.
  • Chausath Yogini Temple– Being counted among one of the oldest temples at Khajuraho is set on a granite base which is southwest to the Shivsagar Tank. It is a small artificial lake and the shrine is dedicated to Maa Kali. It is these shrines that are devoted to the Yoginis. It is well accessible from all parts of the state by both private and public bus services.
  • Lakshmana Temple– Being one of the oldest and strikingly structured shrines of the Western Group of Temples, the lintel over the entrance displays the trinity of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It has a three-headed idol of Lord Vishnu’s incarnations, Narasimha, and Varaha. This marvelous architecture has been constructed by the emperor Lakshavarma. The deity is said to be originally from Tibet and was gifted to the emperor by the Pratihara ruler Devapala.
  • Bharatji Temple- This is the only shrine that is dedicated to Surya and it is located at about 91 m to the north of the Jagadambi Temple. There is a three storied stepped tank known as Chopra in the south eastern direction. The temple is richly decorated and stands distinct for its unique design and sculptures.
  • Javari Temple- This sacred place of worship is situated near the Brahma temple. One can locate this temple which is built towards the eastern side of Khajuraho. It belongs to the Eastern group of temples and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is unique for its old architectural patterns that attract not only the pilgrims but every visitor who is interested in history.
  • Brahma Temple– This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it stands tall at a height of 11 feet platform. The Brahma Temple is situated on the east bank of the Ninora Tal which is the largest tank in Khajuraho. The shrine is indeed small which is built in a square shape structure that rests on twelve pilasters of granite. There are many people who visit this shrine all around the year.
  • Adinath Temple– The Adinath Temple has been built during the late 11th century. Being a small shrine, it is set in a small compound and located in the south-eastern direction of the Ghantai temple. The porch and the statue of the Tirthankara have been built later. Being built towards the beginning of the Chandelas’ decline, this temple is relatively small, but the spire and base are richly carved.

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