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 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.

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’.