Triambakeshwar Temple Nashik

Trambakeshwar (Trimbakeshwar) is an ancient Hindu temple in the town of Trimbak, in the Nashik District of Maharashtra, India, 28 km from the city of Nashik. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingaas.

It is located at the source of the Godavari River, the longest river in peninsular India. The Godavari River, which is considered sacred within Hinduism, originates from Bramhagiri mountains and meets the sea near Rajahmudry. Kushavarta, a kund is considered the symbolic origin of the river Godavari, and revered by Hindus as a sacred bathing place.rimbakeshwar is one of the holy places of not only Maharashtra but the whole India is near Nashik. Trimbakeshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingaas of Lord Shiva.

The following verse shall explain the importance of this sacred place and the next one gives names of the Twelve Jyotirlingaas in India. This says that anybody who visits Trimbakeshwar attains salvation. There is no sacred place like Trimbakeshwar, no river like Godavari, no mountain like Bramhagiri etc.The reasons for its being so sacred are - Godavari river originates in this place, its a place of Tri-Sandhya Gayatri, the birth place of Lord Ganesha, a place of the first Nath of Nath Sampradaya consisting of Gorakhnath and others, a place where Nivrittinath was made to imbibe the holy knowledge by his Guru Gahininath, a place where Nivrittinath made his brothers and sister attain the self by his preaching.

This is the holiest place to perform Shradha ceremony like Narayan nagbali As per Nirnaya Sindhu - a religious book of Hindus.Trimbakeshwar Temple is one of the holiest and sacred place for Hindu pilgrims and is revered as a one of the 12 Jyotirlingaas shrines of Lord Shiva. The temple lies in the foothill of mountain Bramhagiri which is the origin of river Ganga (called here by name Godavari).

The most attractive part of this temple is presence of 3 linga's each representing Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. All three resides in a hallow space within the Shiva lingam.

This temple is built by Shri Nana Saheb Peshawa in 1755-1786 AD .Its is built with black stone and the Shivlingam is said to be emerged naturally. The temple is bordered with around 20-25 stone feet wall in height.

Temple is just 10 min walk from the bus stand and thus no need for auto's. Entrance gate will lead us to the queue which has logical separation of around 6-7 lines. The queue to the main temple passes through Nandi temple which is built in front of the Shiva temple, Nandi facing Shivlingam (as we know Shiva temple always has Nandi Idol where Nandi always faces Shiva lingam .Nandi Idol is sitting on a platform which is a foot or two in height and is carved out of white marble. Crossing this Nandi temple we step in to the Shiva temple .Then we enter a big hall whose roof is in dome shape from inside. The sanctum is not big and houses the main Shivlingam and three lings residing in hollow structure.

Outside the temple just in-front of entrance gate, one can see few cows self feeding the grass. Kushavarta

Kushavarta TrambakeshwarJust a 5 min walk away from main temple there is a sacred pond called "Kushavarta" which is from where river Ganga takes here route to the rest of India. A dip in this sacred river wipes off the sins, is the belief of people. The sage Gautam committed a sin of murdering a cow and by taking bath in this river, wiped off his sin & gets rid off of all its sin's if he takes bath here. Story has that, Sage Gautam forced river Ganga to stall within the enchanted grass area he made and puts a vow on her. This he done so to take a holy bath in this water and to get rid of his sin for killing a cow.

Sheemant Rao Sahib Parnekar built the temple around the stalled water at this place which we are seeing today. The walls inside all along the hall is inscribed by various Idols, and in all corners are some small temple. The most important fact of this pond is that it is the starting point of Kumb Mela which happens once in a 12 year and next is on 2015. Saints all over the world come to this place on the occasion of mela to take a holy bath.

There are certain time allotted by the government abiding which Saints needs to take bath. They take bath in the sequence of their seniority and once they are done then rest of normal peoples can proceed. As per the rule the sadhus (Saint) belonging to "Vaishnav" sect will take bath in Godavari at Ram Kund, Panchavati and those belonging to "Shaiva" sect will take bath here. Since Godavari (Ganga) flows from here and reaches at Ram Kund so both are considered pious. This rule was set by Peshawa during the time where in one of the Kumb mela these two groups fought with each other over who would take the holy bath first which resulted in hundreds of death.

Bramhagiri

Brahmagiri TrambakeshwarAnother attraction of this place is the Bramhagiri Hill, which is the origin of the river Ganga and is named here as Godavari. To reach the top of the hill one needs to go through some 700 steps and usually needs 4-5 hours to cover. Trimbakeshwar Temple is perched on the picturesque lusting green Bramhagiri hills. River Godavari originates on this hill and flows though the Bramhagiri ranges.

Original Ganges and Trimbak Tirtha are on Bramhagiri mountain adjacent to Trimbakeshwar temple. Bramhagiri is considered as a huge form of Lord Shiva and hence the mountain climbing was considered as a sin.However in 1908 Seth Lalchand Jashodanand Bhambhani of Karachi and Seth Ganeshdas built 500 steps of stone at a cost of Rs. 40,000 then this has facilitated easy access to Bramhagiri. Godavari is flowing in three directions on the mountain. The one flowing towards east is called Godavari, one flowing towards the south is called Vaitarna and the one flowing towards the west is called the west-flowing Ganga and meets Godavari near Chakra Tirth. River Ahilya meets Godavari in front of the Trimbakeshwar temple. Childless families worship at the Ahilya sangam and it is believed that they do get a child.

The first peak of Sahyadri is called Brahmadri. The story associated with this is that Shankar was pleased with Brahmadev and said “ I shall be known by your name”. Hence it is called as Bramhagiri. The mountain is 1800 feet high . Its height from sea level is 4248 feet. Five peaks of this mountain are called Sadyo-Jata, Vamdev, Aghora, Ishana and Tat-Purusha and are considered as five mouths of the Lord Shiva and they are worshipped.

Gangadwar

Gangadwar BrahmagiriGangadwar is half way to Bramhagiri mountain. There is a temple of Ganga, now known as Godavari River. Ganga appears first time here, after it vanishes from Bramhagiri Mountain. Godavari comes to Gangadwar from Brahmadri. There are 750 steps to Gangadwar. These were built by Karamsi Ranamull of Village Maska. The work was commenced on 1st of Chaitra in Samwat 1907 and was completed on 5th of Chaitra Samwat 1918 by Seth Hansraj Karamsi. Gangadwar is one of the five tirthas. There is an idol of Ganga and near her feet is a stone of the shape of cow’s head through which Ganga water is flowing drop by drop.

Nil Parvat (mountain)

Nilimba BrahmagiriShreemant Seth Kapol has built about 200 steps. On the summit is the temple of Nilamba Matamba Devi (Nilambika), further on is an ancient temple of Nilkantheshwar Mahadev and an idol of Parashuram. There is an old akhada or matha of the Gosavi sect and an ancient temple of Sadguru Dattatraya.

Indra Tirtha

Indra Tirtha is to the east and near Kushavarta.This is known as Shakra-Kupa for Indra wiped off his curse given by sage Gautam for enjoying Ahilya, by a bath in this tirtha.This is built with cut stone in octagonal form by Vishnu Mahadeo Gadre at a cost of Rs. 22000 in 1778.On the bank of the tirtha is a beautiful temple of Indreshwar Mahadev with an idol of Indra seated on an Airavata elephant.Besides this there are Vishwanath tirtha, Nilambar tirtha or Moti-tank, Mukund tirtha, Prayag tirtha and Veni-Madhav and other Mahadev temples on the bank of Prayag tirtha. Here is a matha of Nirvana Sampradaya (sect) Nilganga tirtha and nilsangameshwar Mahadev temple are on the north bank of Godavati.

Bilwa Tirtha

Bilwa Tirtha is to the north of Nila mountain. It is one of the five tirthas. There is a temple of Bilvakeshwar Mahadev built by Naro Vinayak Gogte in 1738 at a cost of Rs. 25,000.00.

Gautam Tirtha

Gautam Tirtha is to the south of the Ganges and the Trimbakeshwar temple. Varun being pleased with Gautam gave this tirtha as a permanent source of water. To the north is Gautameshwar and to the south is Rameshwar Mahadev. This tank is 600 x 400 ft and is built by Shrimant Pandit Zashivale at a cost of Rs. 50,000.00.

Ahilya Sangam Tirtha

To force Gautam to give up his penance, a friend of Ganga named Jatila took the form of Ahilya, Gautam’s wife. Gautam could make it out and cursed her to be transformed into a river. Then she begged his pardon. Gautam granted her pardon and said that she will be freed of her curse on her joining with Godavari river. This is the Ahilya-Sangam tirtha where Ganga and Godavari join. There is a temple of Sangmeshwar Mahadev.

Nivruttinath Temple

The temple of Shree Nivruttinath is near Gangadwar Sampradaya consisting of Gorakhnath and others. Nivruttinath was made to imbibe the holy knowledge by his Guru Gahininath. A place where Nivruttinath made his brothers and sister attain the self by his preaching.Every time a sin is committed, there must be penance, one way or the other. While laying down rules of a mortal life, Gods ensured that pilgrimage become a way to ease the burden of sins on conscience. Pilgrims repent their wrongdoing even though not consciously being aware of them all the while until they reach under the refuge of the deity they worship. Trimbakeshwar temple of Trimbak, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is among the destinations where devotees of Lord Shiva can rest shedding their burden of guilt on God's feet.

The renowned city of Nashik in Maharashtra is said to be one of the place where Gods came together to make it worshiped as a sacred destination and this is where the story of Ganga coming down to earth in the form of Godavari is being told followed by the reason of manifestation of Lord Trimbakeshwar, embodying the holy triad- Brahma Vishnu and Mahesh.

Godavari River also referred to as River Gautami after the name of the Sage Gautama is one of the four rivers which are believed to be bestowed with the divine nectar, Amrit and thus its banks become the hosting ground for Kumbha Mela. Its presence adds to the charm of the holy town just as the simple natural beauty characteristic of hills and mountains of Brahmagiri and Gangadwar that surround it. Being a part of the place and the temple of artistic finesse carved in black stone indeed feels like washing away all the sins.

Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple

The temple is the prime reason of the popularity of the place which is now generally referred by the same name as the temple. The Peshwas are credited with the construction of the Shiva temple that now steals the show. It is also said that the crown over the Linga made of gold and precious jewels was installed by Pandavas of Mahabharata. The temple of the Lord is also associated with the historical time when Neelmani or Nassak Diamond which was a part of Lord Shiva's idol was seized by the British and taken away.

Different mythologies point to one common incident of an extremely long famine, effects of which could not affect Sage Gautama, one of the Saptrishi and his wife because of his high merits. From here on two versions split. First version tells about increasing merits of the sage because he chose to serve food selflessly to the other sages which made Indra worried and thus he ordered for the famine to be ended. However, the sage continued to earn merits by asking the rishis to eat at his place, a request that was granted. When Jaya, a friend of Goddess Parvati got killed by a sharp grass for grazing the field in the form of a frail cow by the Sage Gautama, he had to perform penance of his sin of 'Gau Hatya' - killing of a Cow to bring Goddess Ganga from the deadlocks of Lord Shiva down to earth to wash away his sin. Lord Shiva after becoming happy with the penance rewarded what was asked from him for greater good. And then Lord manifested here on the banks of River Gautami to take care of the place forever.

The other version is about Lord Ganesha becoming the cow on the request of the rishis and their wives jealous of the merits of Sage Gautama and dying forcing the sage to please Lord Shiva with his penance and bring Ganga to earth. Delighted Lord Shiva appeared with all the gods and goddesses and said to have remained here since then in the form of Jyotirlinga of Trimbakeshwar, hence the story of 33 Crore Gods and Goddesses staying here making it as popular as a pilgrimage place could get.

There is a small mythological story behind the pond Kushavarta. When Ganges appeared on earth by the power of penance of Muni Gautama, she was sulking on getting parted with Lord Shiva which made here appear in compulsion and disappear in anger at one or the other places like Ganga Sagar Tirth, Varaha Tirth, etc. Muni then bound her by Kusha (a grass) to bathe in her waters to purify himself.

Attractions

Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple

Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Unique among all the Shiva temple and Jyotirlingas in its appearance, the temple has a hole in place of Lingam inside which three 'pindis' (stone representing Gods) could be seen, one for each of the Holy Trinity- Creator Brahma, Operator Vishnu and Destroyer Shiva. Carved in black stone, temple unconsciously inspires devotion.

Kushavarta: The place is among some of the picturesque regions near Nashik decorated with greenery on mountains due to river. The temple of Kedareshwar is another interest that people come for while in Trimbak. The nearby destinations of Kanchan and Kanakhala Tirth are believed to be making the bones of the dead disappear.

Gorakhnath Gufa: The place is believed to be the one where Guru Gorakhnath meditates for Ganges to appear. If other versions of the stories are to be believed, Rishi Gautama was the person to meditate tough, enough to please Lord Shiva. The Shrine to Goddess Ganga is located here itself, in Brahmagiri Hills

Dhari Devi

Dhari Devi temple idol is established in a 20 meters high rock.  Dhari village can be reached passing through a hanging bridge on the opposite side of Alakhananda river.Dhari Devi temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Devi Kali Mata.  Dhari Devi godess is considered as guardian deity of Uttarakhand. The temple is located in Kalyasaur along the Srinagar-Badrinath Highway on the banks of the Alaknanda River in the Garhwal Region of Uttarakhand state, India.

The upper half of an idol of a deity came flowing down along the Alaknanda river and settled here. Since then the idol is worshipped here in the form of Goddess Dhari. The Goddess is believed to change appearance during the day. According to local lore, the deity changes appearance from a girl, to a woman, and then to an old lady. The idol's lower half is located in Kalimath, where mata is prayed in Kali roop.Kalimath is one of 108 shakti sthals in India. As per religious tradition Kalimath is the place where Godess Kali killed the demon Raktavija and after that the goddess had gone under the earth.

A large number of devotees visit the temple throughout the year. Out of the many festivals celebrated in Dhari Devi Temple, the important festivals are Durga Puja and Navratra, when a special Puja is organized in the temple. The temple is decorated with beautiful flowers and light.

Some Mysteries: The first is the Kedarnath temple remained intact without a scratch when all the other constructions around it were completely destroyed. The Shivling inside the temple was again intact. The belpatra on the Shivling was also untouched. This is definitely strange. The Shivling did not even go inside the sludge to make the mysteries even deeper. Perhaps it is God’s way to tell us that He is there and Will always be.

The flood in the Uttarkahand were  so ravishing that it seemed as if God was punishing us for something that should not have been done. The believers say that this might be the shifting of the Goddess Dhari Devi’s Temple. Goddess Dhari Devi’s is a form of Goddess Kali. She protects all the char dhams or the four places of pilgrimage. It is said that her idol should not be relocated from the position. It is from this location that she can control all the char dhams.

Maa Dhari: The Goddess Dhari Devi is said to have immense powers. It is believed by the locals that the Goddess changes forms during the day. From a child she turns to a woman and then to an old lady. Goddess Kali and Lord Shiva are both the Gods of destruction. They have the powers to end the world. This is exactly why they must be worshipped and kept pleased. If the Goddess Kali gets angry she can destroy everything that comes on her way. Perhaps this is what she did in this case.

Legend: In 1882 a local king also tried to relocate the Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple. Even then a bad landslide had come and it had almost flattened the Kedarnath. The king realised his mistake and he replaced the Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple to where it was. Since then the locals believe that the Goddess Dhari Devi has immense powers and shifting her temple can draw a bad curse on the region.

In 2013 again the discussion started on shifting the Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple. This time the reason was development. The aim was to make way for the 330 MW hydel projects that was being built by the Alaknanda Hydro Power Company Ltd (AHPCL). The Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple was located in the middle of the Alaknanda River on a small island. The location was a hindrance to the project. The localities and the Saints of the region had warned that shifting the Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple can bring danger to the region.

The government and the hydel power company did not pay any heed to these protests. They thought that these were just local stories and absolutely baseless. The worst that was feared came true. In spite of all the protest the Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple was shifted from its location to a new seat.

The Act – The Reaction: Around 7:30 PM on Sunday June 16th the idol of Goddess Dhari Devi’s was cut from its base and was taken to the artificial platform created. As soon as the idol was lifted there were heavy lightning and the cloud burst occurred. Interestingly the two pillars of the new temple made were also destroyed by the floods as a result the Goddess Dhari Devi’s idol was kept at a place close to its original location.

Perhaps it was God’s way to tell us that there are few things that should not be touched. It is good that development happens but not at the cost of things that we cannot replace. Perhaps the story of the Goddess Dhari Devi’s temple is just not digestible for one with a scientific palate. Still looking at the devastation, at the status of the Kedarnath temple and the timing of the cloud burst we cannot deny that there must be a deep connection .

Situated At A Height Of 20mts Above A High Rock, Dhari Devi Temple Is Most Visited By Hindu Devotees. The Temple Is Based Along The Banks Of River Alakhnanda. To Reach The Temple One Has To Travel A Distance Of 19kms From Srinagar On The Srinagar-Badrinath Highway That Reaches Up To Kaliya Saur With A Further Down-Trek To Another Half A Kilometer To Alkahnanda River.

As Per Old Sayings, This Temple Was Once Moved By Heavy Floods That Could Float The Idol. The Idol Got Hindered By A Rock. When The Local People Reached The Site They Heard The Cries Of The Idol And A Divine Voice Instructed Them To Install The Idol At The Spot Where It Was Found. Since That Time, The Idol Is Positioned At The Same Place And Is Known As Dhari Devi Temple. It Is Under The Open Sky And Thousands Of Devotees Each Year On The Way To Badrinath Pay Their Obeisance Here. The Dhari Devi Temple Has Only The Upper Part Of The Goddess Dhari. The Lower Part Is Said To Be In Kalimath In Rudraprayag District.

It Is Said That The Idol Of Dhari Devi Can Never Be Put Under Roof And That’s The Reason It Is Always Exposed To Open Sky. Tourists Here Are Not Allowed To Take Photographs Of Dhari Devi. The Residing Place Of Villagers Around This Temple Was Named As Dhari Village After The Name Of This Temple. The Place Has A Hanging Village That Connects To The Dhari Devi Temple And Leads To Dhari Village.

Sri Vidya Saraswathi temple

The temple is around 48 kilometers from Hyderabad in the Vargal village.

Vargal has famous Sri Vidya Saraswathi temple which is situated or the pictorial background in which has a unique rock formation and a valley around this hill. Here there is one temple was dedicated to lord Shani seperately with a big statue measuring around 3 feet in high which is one of the biggest statue of the lord sheni in Andhra Pradesh.

The hillock of Vergal has multiple temples on the same hill.

1. Sri Lakshmi Ganapathi Temple
2. Sri Vidya Saraswati temple
3. Lord Shanishwara Temple
4. Lord Shiva Temple
5. Few Vishnava Temples now completely damaged without any mola vigrahas in it.

This temple complex was a brain child of Sri Yamavaram Chandrashekhara Sharma scholared follower of goddesses Saraswathi astrologer and a vastu experter. Being a business man he has multi faceted activities to his credit.

In 1998 the building process for the above temple was activated under the group who called themselves as Satya patam seva samethi. This committee has started searching for a convenient place to built a temple.

Ultimately they selected the hillock of Vergal were 400 years old Shambu Deva Temple was situated. This temple is 2 feet below the ground level and one has to pass crawling of the ground for few feets to reach the main Shiva lingam. Sorrounding this temple were two ancient Vaishnaya Temples which were built during or before the Kakatiya rulers. There is a big Victory Pillar made of rock which is around 30 feet in height. The Vicotry Pillar has the statues of SitaRama Lakshmana, Goddesses Lakshmi and entwined couple of snakes.

On Vasantha Panchami of 1989 the Bhoomi pooja was performed and the foundation stone was laid for the temple of Sri Saraswathi Devi. It should be noted on this day they had only Rs. 2700 only.When they started propagating about the process of building Saraswathi Temple of donations poured in as a flood. In this way the construction process continued without any hindrance with the help of Lord Saraswathi.

On 1992 Magashudda Trayodashi Pushpagiri petadipate Sri Sri Sri Vidya Nrusinha Bharati Swamy has laid the foundation to the statues of Goddesses Sri Vidya Saraswathi Devi and Lord Shani statues in a temple. This temple was later dedicated to Kanchi Petam and a Vedic Patashala was started in 1999 by Sri Shankara Vijaya Saraswathi of Kanchi Petam and Lakshmi Ganapathi was inaugarated in 2001. The Expenditure crossed 1 crore of the rupees for building this temple. The temple has 13 and half acres of land on the east side were a park, library, hospital were planned in their future expansion.

Every day 100 of people were given free food to come to visit the temple at a big dining hall in the temple complex. During Dussehra period 1000's of devotees visit the temple every day. The Dussehra temple starts with Vigneshwara Pooja. Maha Abishekam Navaratri Kalasha Sthapana Chathu Sha shatyu pachara pooja, Arathi, Mantha Pushpam, Kukumarchana were performed. Laksha pooja Archana Pustaka Roopini Saraswathi Pooja Ashtothara Shathakalasha Abishekam On the last day of Vijayadarshanam of the goddesses Saraswati is decorated for devotees.

Pooja for Lord Shani Special pooja will be performed on every Shani Trayodashi which comes on the saturday. The poojas for Lord Shani were start on 5 a.m. in the morning which start with Ganapathi pooja and Japam, Homam will be performed with Tarpana to Lord Shani. The Lord Sheni will be worshipped with oil called as Taila Abishekam. The Homam for Lord Sheni will be ended at 12:00 noon with Poornahuthi, Arathi etc.,This is a very big event for this temple which attract 1000's of devotees from all over A.P and other places of India.

Some special poojas that are performed at Vargal Saraswathi temple are Chandi Homam which is a special event here.

Goddess Saraswati is the goddess of arts, music, knowledge, and wisdom. Saraswati is considered as the divine consort of Lord Brahma, the Creator of the universe as per the Hindu Religion. Saraswati is regarded as the destroyer of chaos and confusion. Slokas on Saraswati form the part of prayers offered to the goddess. Saraswati Slokas/ Shlokas are as follows:

"Ya Devi Stuyate Nityam Vibhuhairvedaparagaih
Same Vasatu Jihvagre Brahmarupa Saraswati" 

Meaning: Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, is praised by the intelligent who have mastered the Shastra (scriptures). She is the wife of the Creator. May she live on my tongue.

"Shrii Saraswatii Namahstubhyam Varade Kaama Ruupini
Twaam Aham Praarthane Devii Vidyaadaanam Cha Dehi Me" 

Meaning: I bow to Goddess Saraswati, who fulfills the wishes of the devotees. I pray her to enlighten me with knowledge. 

"Sarasvathi Namastubhyam, Varade Kaamaroopini
Vidyaarambham Karishyaami, Siddhir Bhavatu Mey Sada" 

Meaning: Saraswati is the provider of boons and the one, who grants all our desires. As I begin my studies, I bow to the Goddess to help me in making it fruitful and make me successful in all my efforts.Yaa Kundendu tushaara haara-dhavalaa, Yaa shubhra-vastra'avritaa

Yaa veena-vara-danda-manditakara, Yaa shweta padma'asana
Yaa brahma'achyuta shankara prabhritibhir Devai-sadaa Vanditaa
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswati Bhagavatee Nihshesha jaadya'apahaa.
Shuklaam Brahmavichaara Saara paramaam Aadhyaam Jagadvyapinim,
Veena Pustaka Dhaarineem Abhayadaam Jaadya'andhakaara'apahaam
Haste Sphaatika Maalikam Vidadhateem
Padmasane Sansthitaam
Vande taam Parmeshwareem Bhagavateem Buddhipradaam Shardam.

English translation:She, who is as fair as the Kunda flower,the moon, and a garland of Tushar flowers;
She, whose hands are adorned by the excellent veena, and whose seat is the pure white lotus;
O Mother Goddess, remove my mental inertia!

Shri Vidya Saraswathi temple or Wargal Saraswathi temple is a Hindu temple.  The deity of education in Hinduism is Goddess Saraswathi. It is among the few temples of Saraswathi in Andhra Pradesh. It is maintained by Kanchi Shankara Mutt.  This temple complex was a brain child of Yayavaram Chandrashekhara Sharma, scholar follower of goddesses Saraswathi.

The temple has a Veda Paathashaala in its premises, where many students learn Vedas. There are about 300 students who are provided accommodation in the temple premises. Goddess Saraswathi is the goddess of arts, music, knowledge, and wisdom.  Saraswathi is considered as the divine consort of Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe,  as per the Hindu Religion. Goddess  Saraswathi is regarded as the destroyer of chaos and confusion.

The temple is famous for Akshara Abyasam(learning ceremony) for children. 

Vasantha Panchami, Navartri Mahaotsavams and Shani Tryodasi festivals are being celebrated in a grand manner in this temple.

Shri Vidya Saaswati Devi temple is situated on a hillock (small hill) in the village of Vargal(Wargal). Shri Saraswathi Devi, Goddess of education and knowledge is the main deity of this temple. Shani Tryodasi is celebrated in Lord Shani temple.

The other temples located on the same hillock of Vargal are Lord Shani temple, Lord Lakshmi Ganapathi temple,Lord Shiva temple and few Vishnu temples.  Now these temples are completely damaged without mula vigrahas(main deities) in them.  These temples were built before Kakatiya rulers.

The history of Shri Vidya Saraswathi temple was that, on the day of Vasantha Panchami in 1989,  Bhoomi pooja was performed and foundation stone was laid for the temple of Shri Vidya Saraswathi Devi.
 
On the day of Trayodasi of Maga Suddha month in 1992, "Pushpagiri Peetadhipathi Shri Shri Shri Vidya Nrusimha Bharthi Swamy" laid the foundation to the idols of Goddess Shri Saraswathi Devi and Lord Shaneeswara.

In 1998, Satya Patam Seva Samethi, a committee started temple building process, on this hillock where 400 years old temples were situated.  In 1999, a Vedic Patashala(school) was started by "Shri Shankara Vijayendraa Saraswathi" of Kanchi Peetam.
 
Now the temple is maintained by "Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam".  The temple complex was a brain child of Shri Yamavaram Chandrashekhara Sharma" scholar, astrolger, Vastu expert and follwer of Goddess Shri Saraswathi Devi.

Many families visit the temple for their children's Akshara abyasam (learning ceremony). Meals are provided free for all the devotees at the temple premises called as Nitya Annadanam.

Vasantha Panchami and Navaratri Utsava Mahotsavams are being celebrated every year in a grand manner. Vargal:

• On the day of Vasantha Panchami in 1989,  Bhoomi Pooja was performed and foundation stone was laid for the temple of Sri Vidya Saraswathi Devi.
• On the day of Trayodasi of Maga Suddha month in 1992, "Pushpagiri Peetadhipathi Sri Sri Sri Vidya Nrusimha Bharthi Swamy" laid the foundation to the idols of Goddess Sri Saraswati Devi and Lord Shaneeswara.
• In 1998, Satya Patam Seva Samethi, a committee started temple building process on this hillock where 400 years old temples were situated.
• In 1999, a Vedic Patashala(School) was started by "Sri Shankara Vijaya Saraswathi" of Kanchi Petam.
• Now the temple is maintained by "Kanchi Kamakoti Petam".
• The temple complex was a brain child of Sri Yamavaram Chandrashekhara Sharma" Scholared, Astrolger, Vastu experter and follwer of Goddess Sri Saraswathi Devi.

Important Festivals:

Sri Saraswathi Devi Temple: Vasantha Panchami and Navaratri Utsava Mahotsavams are being celebrated every year in a grand manner.

Lord Shani Temple: Shani Tyrodasi is the most auspicious day for the Lord Shani which falls on the Saturday coincides with Tyrodasi, the 13th day in a fortnight of Hindu Calendar  On this day special rituals are being performed to the Lord.  

Guruvayur Temple

According to the legends, the idol worshipped here is more than 5000 years old. But there are no historical records to establish it. In the 14th century Tamil literature 'Kokasandesam', references about a place called Kuruvayur is made. As early as 16th century (50 years after the Narayaneeyam was composed) many references are seen about Kuruvayur. In ancient Dravidic, Kuruvai means sea, hence the village on the coast may be called Kuruvayur.

But according to Prof. K V Krishna Iyer (eminent historian), the Brahmins had begun to come and settle at Kodungalloor during the period of Chandra Gupta Maurya ( 321-297 BC). Trikkunavay in the Guruvayur documents is the same as Thrikkanamathilakam or Mathilakam mentioned in the Dutch and British records. And this place was in between Guruvayur and Kodungalloor. Guruvayur was Trikkunavay's subordinate shrine since they were destroyed by the Dutch in 1755. That way Guruvayur must have come into existence before 52 AD. The story of Pandyan King building a shrine here may be a reference to the Azhavars , but they are all silent in their writing about Guruvayur.

It was Melpathur's Narayaneeyam through which the Temple got publicity. The concept of Unnikrishna popularised by Poonthanam , Kururamma , and Villwamangalam brought more and more devotees to Guruvayur.The Sreekovil (Sanctum Sanctorum) is designed in 2 layers with copper sheet roofing plated with gold. The deity is in the traditionally orthodox form of Mahavishnu, with all the compliments - four arms each carrying sankh (conch), chakra(wheel), gadha (club) and padmam (lotus). The Moolavigraha (main idol) is made of Pathalanjana Shila and is considered extremely sacred.

There are two more idols one of silver and the other of gold of which the silver idol is more older. These are used for the seeveli and other processions. Generally the gold idol is used and the silver idol which is more older is taken out only for Arattu and on a few special occasions. There is a repletion of traditional mural paintings on all the three sides, depicting sequences from puranic tales and Krishnaleela. There is amorous and erotic accent in the murals.

The old doors of Sreekovil are replaced with a new set secured with gold plated bars and embellished with golden bells. There are 101 bells, all made of silver and plated with gold.

Sopanam, the steps leading to the Sreekovil, are made of stone with carvings and designs of attractive craftsmanship.Ankana- It is the inner courtyard around the Sreekovil (central shrine) and its passage is flanked by vathilmatam.

Vathilmatam- The two platforms on both sides of the Eastern entrance to the Sreekovil are called Vathilmatam.Melpathur meditated andcomposed his magnum opus Narayaneeyam sitting here on theeastern pillar on the southern Vathilmatam. The northern side was initially being used by the paradesaBrahmins and the southern side by the KeralaBrahmins for daily orisons.

Namaskara Mandapam-The mandapam is situated right in the center of the chuttambalam or Nalambalam and just right in front of the Sreekovil. The roof is supported by four granite pillars. The mandapam is plated with 100 kg copper and 25 kg gold

Nalambalam (Chutambalam ) - The roofed structure around the ankana is the Nalambalam. Before the 1970 fire, there was a chuttambalam (separate passage around Sreekovil between the Vathilmatam and the Vilakkumatam). Now all are made under single roof and one cannot find the chuttambalam in some places like the Ganapathy shrine. The southern side is divided in to five parts.

Titappalli is the place where the offerings to the Lord are prepared.

Patakkalam- where the pata (cooked rice) offered to the Lord is being distributed.

Turakka Ara, literally the unopened chamber, which is an under ground cell where the reserve cash, gold and silver are believed to be hidden in ancient days. It remains closed witha huge granite stone. It is widely believed that this contains rare and precious stones including the mythological "Syamanthakam". Legend has it that the treasures inside the chamber are closely guarded by innumerable serpents.

Saraswathi Ara- where the palm leaf manuscripts are kept for worship during the Navarathri festival. Now it is shifted to the Koothambalam.

Ganapathy shrine- Where the Ganapathy is worshipped.

Western Chuttambalam- In between the Ganapathyshrine and the store room the temple priests prepare sandal paste and Variyar make garlands.

Northern Chuttambalam is towards the east of store room. It consists ofa small open hall, the chottara, where the temple servants keep the choru (cooked rice).

Chottara (Velichanna)- earlier coconut oil room [ now shifted]

Nrithapura the northern part of chottarafrom where saint Villwamangalam had the darshan of Unnikrishna dancing.

Mulayara is the place where the pots filled with earth and ritually sown with different seeds and worshipped before the beginning of the Annual Utsavam every year.

Koyma Ara, the office of the Akakoymas (in the old administrative setup), whose charge is to see that the poojas of the day areconductedproperly.

Sacred well- There is a deep well to the south of Nrithapura. Nowhere in the neighborhood, there is such clear and cool water. The water in the well maintains its level throughout the year. This water is used for the daily poojas and abhishekam inside Sreekovil.Bhahyankanam is the outer courtyard where the procession for the Seeveli takes place. It is open both on the south and the west. The northern courtyard was in the past covered by a tiled roof ( now by a concrete roof ) with a small opening near its western end for acharyabhivandanam , in commemoration of Sankaracharya`s forced landing . Beyond the Sastha shrine and the opening on the courtyard from the opposite side are the store rooms , the quarters for the temple priests , the Patinjare Gopuram , also the aduppukalam ( big kitchen) , where the rice and other items for the feasts are prepared. 

Gopurams - There are two storied Gopurams at the eastern and western entrances which house some of the rare frescos of the 16th century. These mural paintings are distinct from those found in other temples in their theme and style. Some of the paintings were damaged in the course of time and due to the fire in 1970 , and were then repainted.

Vilakkumatam 
The massive array of metal lamps round the Sreekovil on the outer walls of the Nalambalam. Around 8000 brass metal lamps fixed on the wooden trellis, around the temple are lighted on the festival and special days or by an offering.Gopuram and the balickalpura is called Nadappura . 'Aanappanthal' is the northern portion of nadappura. It acquired the name from its giant size. (aana means elephant and panthal means pavilion). Here annaprasam , thulabharam etc. are being conducted . Formerly marriages were conducted under it but now marriages are shifted to the Kalyana Mandapam

Dhwajasthambam or the flag-staff rises amidst the eastern bahyankana which has a tiled roof. Dhwajasthambam is encased in plated gold at a height of 600feet. Flag is hoisted to mark the beginning of the Annual Utsavam and will be there till the Arattu day.

Valiya mani - Situated south of Kizhakke Gopuram and near the south east corner of the bahyankana, is the valiya mani (big bell), announcing the time by its hourly chiming.

Koothambalam - It is the stage or the theatre for presenting the Chakiyar koothu . Koothambalam is located in the front and to the right of the presiding deity. The pillars and the ceilings of it are profusely engraved , painted and lavishly embellished with ornamental filigrees and fittings.

Deepasthambams - Just in front of the temple there is a huge tower of light, it has thirteen discs including basement and is 24 feet in height. There are four Deepasthambams made of brass, inside the temple. One at northern wing was smashed by theGajarajan Kesavan. The eastern tower, Kizhakke Gopuram (eastern tower) is 33 feet and Patinjhare Gopuram (western tower) is 27 feet in height.Rudratheertham - This is the tank behind the oottupura where the Lord has His annual Arattu. Siva is said to have washed and worshipped the deity when the idol was brought by Guru and Vayu for installation to Guruvayur.

Kovilakam - Towards the south from the Kizhakke Gopuram is Kovilakam, the place where Prince Manavedan had been residing during the days of composition of Krishna Geethi . This has been demolished and Sreevalsam rest house have come-up.

Athani - On the northern bank of the Rudratheertham is an Athani (porters' rest), in memory of a Kantiyur Pattar, a trusted servant of the temple who got murdered on an Utsava day. As a mark of respect, Lord's Arattu procession stops here for a minute.

Tantrimadam - On the north-east bank of Rudratheertham in the Inner-ring road is the tantrimadam or the official residence of the Tantri.

Kizhakke Nada - There were many residences on the right side of the street.The Pazhaya othikkans madam, the residence of the Thiyyarambalam priests, Mallisseri Malika and Chondath Malika on the Kizhakee nada are no more now. Till the temple entry of 1947, Thiyyas and other avarnas (lower cast people) were permitted to approach only up to Thiyyarambalam. About a furlong and a half from the Thiyyarambalam is Manjulal (the banyan tree). This is the starting point of the elephant race which precedes Kodiyettam (hosting of the flag) for the Annual Utsavam.From the time immemorial, India has been a spiritually enlightened country consecrated by Rishis and temples of worship. Holy places like Kashi and Rameswaram have magnificent Temples which, besides their spiritual significance, are noted for their antiquity and historical importance. The artistic excellence and the architectural specialities of Konark and Khajuraho are so indescribable that they always attract not only the pilgrims from within the country but also swarms of tourists from abroad. But Guruvayur is a pilgrim center which has its own glory and greatness, mainly because of the divinity enshrined in the Sanctum - Sanctorum (central shrine) of the temple and the unique charm of the idol installed in it.

The presiding deity in the Garbhagraha (central shrine) is Mahavishnu, worshipped according to the pooja routines laid down by Adi Sankaracharya and later written in to the Tantrasamuchaya by Chennas Narayanan Namboodiri (born in 1427). The Chennas Namboodiris are the hereditary Tantri of Guruvayur temple. The people at large, however, invoke the Lord as UNNIKRISHNA or BALAKRISHNA.

Guruvayur was once a sub-shrine of the Trikkunavay Shiva Temple. The Shiva Temple was destroyed by the Dutch in 1755. Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri’s Narayaniyam, composed in the 16th century popularized the existence of the Guruvayur Temple around the world. The present structure of the Temple is believed to have been rebuilt in 1638.

It is believed that the central shrine (Sreekovil) and the Mandapam are as old as 1030 AD. The western gopuram was constructed in the 12th century. The Dutch raided Guruvayur in 1716 and the western gopuram was set afire. Guruvayur was subjected to further assaults by Hyder Ali in 1766 and by Tipu Sultan in 1789. In 1789, the Utsavavugraha (Utsava Moorthi) was shifted to Ambalapuzzha and the Moolavigraha to a safe underground sanctum. The Moolavigraha was re-installed and worship resumed after the victory of the Zamorins over Tipu Sultan with the help of the British Army.

The legend associated with the Temple can be referenced to the Narada Purana. Lord Vishnu once appeared before Lord Brahma to grant salvation to him and his creations. On Lord Brahma’s request, he presented him with an idol of and made by himself. Some centuries later, Lord Brahma gifted this idol to King Sutapas and his wife Prasni, who were doing penance for a child. Lord Vishnu appeared to the King and his wife and stated that he will be born to them for their next four births. He also blessed them by stating that the idol will bless them in each of these births.

Lord Vishnu was born as Prasngarbha to King Sutapas and Queen Prasni in the Satya Yuga. In Treta Yuga, he was born as Vamana to Kashyapa (Sutapas) and Aditi (Prasni). Later, Lord Vishnu was born as Lord Rama to King Dashratha (Sutapas) and Kaushalya (Prasni). In the Dwapara Yuga, he took the form of Lord Krishna to Vasudeva and Devaki who were the reincarnation of Sutapas and Prasni again.

When Lord Krishna decided to forego the Earth and ascend to heaven, he decided to give the idol to Brihaspati (Guru) and Vayu, so that it could escape the destruction of Dwarka. Brihaspati and Vayu went southwards in search of a place to consecrate and worship the idol. They were enchanted by the sight of the huge Rudratheertham and on a visit there, met Sage Parashurama. The three together met Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on the banks of the Theertham and were eventually convinced by the greatness of the place by Lord Shiva himself. They decided to build a shrine there and consecrate the idol of Lord Krishna at the site. They entailed the services of Vishwakarma (Architect of the Devas) who built a grand temple within minutes.

Significance of Guruvayur Temple

It is believed that the form of Lord Krishna worshiped here is the form of Lord Vishnu in which he appeared to Vasudev and Devaki during the birth of Lord Krishna. Hence, the child form of Lord Krishna is worshiped here.

The main idol of the deity is made of the “Patala Anjanama” stone. The unique stone is believed to possess healing properties. Every day, the water used for Abhishekam (bathing of the idol) is distributed to the devotees for healing purposes.

The Temple has several synonyms like “Bhooloka Vaikunta” meaning “Abode of Vishnu on Earth”. It is also called as the “Dwarka of the South”.

It is believed that Lord Shiva performed penance or Tapasya in the Rudratheertham (Rudra is associated with Lord Shiva and hence, the name of the tank). In ancient days, the Rudratheertham was believed to be much larger than the present form and was supposed to be filled with Lotuses.

The Krishnanattam is a unique service held at Guruvayur on all days except Tuesdays. The art form is a depiction of events in the eight stages of Lord Krishna’s life. The devotees can view the performances in the evening at the Mandapam as well as perform the seva to fulfill their personal wishes.

All the articles in the Garbhagriha, including the doors and the roof, are made out of gold.

The Temple is well known for providing a healing touch to people suffering from major diseases like Leprosy and Tuberculosis.

Festivals celebrated at Guruvayur Temple

• Ekadasi – The auspicious day is the major festival celebrated in Guruvayur. It is believed that this is the day when Lord Krishna enlightens Arjuna with the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. The festival lasts for a month. The Ekadasi or the eleventh day is celebrated in the month of Vrischika or November. On the day of Navami, Deepams lit with Ghee are offered to the Lord by the Kolady family followed by the Deepams on Dasami offered by the Guruvayurappan Sankeerthana Trust. On Ekadasi, the Ekadasi Vilakku (Deepam) with Elephant procession takes place signaling the end of the festivities.
• Chembai Sangeethotsavam – This is a unique cultural festival celebrated to honor Sri Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, a legendary Carnatic Musician and an ardent Krishna devotee in Guruvayur. The music festival is celebrated for 11 days during which artists, whether old or young, amateur or professionals participate and dedicate their compositions to Lord Krishna. They are provided free accommodation and food by the Temple Administration.
• The Temple Utsavam – The grand festival is celebrated in the month of February – March and lasts for 10 days. The first day marks the raising of the flag atop the Dhwajasthambam as an invitation to the Gods and Goddesses to attend the festival. An Elephant race is held on the first day that attracts visitors from far and away. For the next 6 days, processions of the Lord is taken around on the backs of the elephants. Every day, a morning Pooja is held followed by several cultural programs and religious discourses. The Utsavabali is celebrated on the eighth day. The devotees are treated to a feast. The ninth day is celebrated as Palivetta which signifies the destruction of evils in our life such as Kama (Lust) and Krodha (Anger). After that, the idol of the deity is taken to the Temple pond where thousands of devotees take a dip dedicated to him. The Lord is returned to the shrine after going around the temple for eleven times. The Temple flag is lowered, signaling an end of the festival.
• Vishu – The day is celebrated as the Malayali New Year and occurs in mid-April. It is a belief that the one’s fortunes depend on what one sees first thing on an auspicious morning. Offerings like Rice, flowers, gold, betel leaves, nuts, coins and yellow cucumber are arranged in front of the Lord on the previous night itself. Devotees stay overnight blindfolded and facing the deity. When the shrine is opened, they throng to see the auspicious sight of the Lord and bless themselves with the good omen.
• Janmashtami – The joyous occasion of the birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great pomp and fare. The whole temple is decorated with flowers and lamps. Special Poojas are performed throughout the day. Offerings of Appam are made to the Lord by thousands of devotees who flock to the Temple to have a glimpse of the God on this auspicious day.

Besides these festivals, Onam, Deepavali, Navarathri, and Kuchela Dinam are also celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Temple

Guruvayur Temple Sevas

• Udayasthamana Pooja – This unique Pooja is a ritual where 15 special Poojas are performed throughout the day (Udaya for Sunrise and Astha for Sunset) for the deity in the name of the devotee. The rituals begin at dawn and proceeds in succession till dusk after which the devotee and other attendees are given Prasadam of the Pooja.
• Annaprasanam – This is a ceremony where an infant is given rice as food for the first time since his or her birth. Arrangements are made for the devotees and the child with cooked rice, payasam (rice pudding) and plantain. The food is spread onto a banana leaf and then fed to the infant among holy chants signifying the beginning of a nutritionally healthy life ahead.
• Prasadaootu – This Seva is also known popularly as Annadanam. Devotees can donate any amount and it will be used to feed thousands of pilgrims every day at the Temple Dining Hall.
• Tulabharam – The devotee is weighed against offerings like banana, sugar, water, rice or gold in a Tula or a balance. The equivalent weight is then offered to the Temple. Non-Hindus are also allowed to perform the ceremony.
• Elephant donation and Anayoottu – The devotees can also donate elephants to the Temple. Currently, 40 such elephants are housed in Punnatthur Kota. Anayoottu is the feeding of these elephants. Devotees can also feed these elephants every day at the Temple at 10 AM.
• Bhagavathi Azhal – As per the devotee’s requirement, ten or twenty wicks of oil lamps are kept on a banana leaf and presented in front of the shrine of Bhagavathi.
• Krishnanattam – The unique dance performance called as Krishnanattam is the representation of important incidents in Lord Krishna’s life. The art form was introduced by Prince Manavedan in 1654. The performance uses colorful masks inspired by local art forms and traditional instruments like Sudha Madhalam, Edakka, Gong, and Conch. The devotees can offer these performances for the fulfillment of their particular desire. The eight episodes are – Avatharam (for birth of a child), Kaliyamardana (antidote to poisoning), Rasakreeda (happy unmarried life), Kamsavadha (eliminate enemies), Swayamvara (matrimonial issues), Banayudha (fulfillment of wishes), Vividha Vodha (fight against poverty and increase agricultural yield) and Swargarohana (peace of departed souls).
• Angapradakshina – This ritual involves circumambulating the Temple pradakshina with his or her eyes closed and chanting the Lord’s name.The Legend says that when the temple of Dwarka was submerged under the sea, Guru and Vayu were assigned the job to discover an equally holy place for a fresh temple. Ultimately, when they discovered the site, the place came to be known as Guruvayur and the deity, Guruvayurappan. The main idol is said to have got installed by Brihaspati (Guru) and Vayu, by the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. 
  
  The oldest mention of Guruvayur is traceable in 'Kokasandesam', a fourteenth century Tamil work. In this scripture, it is stated as Kuruvayur. Guruvayoor has scores of references in the works of 16th century. The temple actually got famous with Melpathur's 'Narayaniyam'. At this abode of Lord, maximum number of marriages is observed every year. 

Kamakhya Temple

 Kamakhya Temple located at Guwahati, Assam is a Hindu temple dedicated to the mother goddess Kamakhya. It is considered most sacred and oldest of the 51 Shakti Peethas on earth.

Kamakhya Temple is located on Nilachal Hills in western part of Guwahati on adjoining banks of Brahmaputra river. There is a complex consisting of several temples around Maa Kamakhya Temple. Apart from this, there are also the temples of 10 Mahavidyas in and around temple. These include Bhuvaneshvari, Bagalamukhi, Chinnamasta,Tripura Sundari, Tara, Kali, Bhairavi, Dhumavati, Matangi and Kamala Temples. Among these, Tripurasundari, Matangi and Kamala reside inside the main temple whereas the other seven are individual temples located on Nilachal Hills.

Kamakhya Temple is an important pilgrimage destination for all sects of Hindus and especially for Tantric worshipers.

The earliest historical dynasty of Kamarupa, the Varmans (350-650), as well as Xuanzang, a 7th-century Chinese traveler ignore the Kamakhya, when it is assumed that the worship was Kirata-based beyond the brahminical ambit.The first epigraphic notice of Kamakhya is found in the 9th-century Tezpur plates of Vanamalavarmadeva of the Mlechchha dynasty. There is enough archaeological evidence of a massive 8th-9th century temple. There is a tradition that the temple was destroyed by Kalapahar, a general of Sulaiman Karrani (1566–1572), though the latest historical findings favor instead an earlier destruction during Hussein Shah’s invasion of the Kamata kingdom(1498) then under Nilambar. The ruins of the temple was said to have been discovered by Vishwasingha, the founder of the Koch dynasty, who revived worship at the site; but it was during the reign of his son, Naranarayan, that the temple reconstruction was completed in 1565. The reconstruction used material from the original temples that was lying scattered about. Banerji (1925) records that this structure was further built over by the rulers of the Ahom kingdom. Many other structures are yet later additions.

According to a legend the Koch Bihar royal family was banned by Devi herself from offering puja at the temple. In fear of this curse, to this day no descendants of that family dares to even look upward towards the Kamakhya hill while passing by.

Without the support of the Koch royal family the temple faced lot of hardship. By the end of 1658, the Ahoms under king Jayadhvaj Singha had conquered the Lower Assam and their interests in the temple grew. In the decades that followed the Ahom kings, all who were either devout Shaivite or Shakta continued to support the temple by rebuilding and renovating it.

Rudra Singha (reign 1696 to 1714) was a devout Hindu and as he grew older he decided to formally embrace the religion and become an orthodox Hindu by being initiated or taking sharan of a Guru, who would teach him the mantras and become his spiritual guide. But, he could not bear the thought of humbling himself in front of a Brahmin who is his subject. He therefore sent envoys to Bengal and summoned Krishnaram Bhattacharyya, a famous mahant of Shakta sect who lived in Malipota, near Santipur in Nadia district. The mahant was unwilling to come, but consented on being promised to be given the care of the Kamakhya temple to him. Though the king did not take sharan, he satisfied the mahant by ordering his sons and the Brahmins in his entourage to accept him as their spiritual guru.

When Rudra Singha died, his eldest son Siba Singha (reign 1714 to 1744), who became the king, gave the management of the Kamakhya temple and along with it large areas of land (Debottar land) to Mahant Krishnaram Bhattacharyya. The Mahant and his successors came to be known as Parbatiya Gosains, as they resided on top of the Nilachal hill. Many Kamakhya priests and modern Saktas of Assam are either disciples or descendants of the Parbatiya Gosains.The temple consists of four chambers: garbhagriha and three mandapas locally called calanta, pancaratna and natamandira. The garbhagriha has a pancharathaplan and rests on plinth moldings that are similar to the Surya Temple at Tezpur, above which are dados from a later period of the Khajuraho or the Central Indian type, consisting of sunken panels alternating with pilasters.  The sikhara in the shape of a bee-hive, which is characteristic of temples in Lower Assam. The inner sanctum, the garbhagriha, is a cave below ground level and consists of no image but a rock fissure:

The garbhagriha is small, dark and reached by narrow steep stone steps. Inside the cave there is a sheet of stone that slopes downwards from both sides meeting in a yoni-like depression some 10 inches deep. This hallow is constantly filled with water from an underground perennial spring. It is the vulva-shaped depression that is worshiped as the goddess Kamakhya herself and considered as most important pitha (abode) of the Devi.

The garbhaghrihas of the other temples in the Kamakhya complex follow the same structure—a yoni-shaped stone, filled with water and below ground level.

The current structure has been built during the Ahom times,with remnants of the earlier Koch temple carefully preserved. Temple was destroyed during the middle of second millennium and revised temple structure was constructed in 1565 by Chilarai of the Koch dynasty in the style of medieval temples. The current structure has a beehive-like shikhara characteristic of lower Assam with delightful sculptured panels and images of Ganesha and other Hindu gods and goddesses on the outside. The temple consists of three major chambers. The western chamber is large and rectangular and is not used by the general pilgrims for worship. The middle chamber is a square, with a small idol of the Goddess, a later addition. The walls of this chamber contain sculpted images of Naranarayana, related inscriptions and other gods. The middle chamber leads to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple in the form of a cave, which consists of no image but a natural underground spring that flows through a yoni-shaped cleft in the bedrock.The temple of Kamakhya has a very interesting story of its origin. It is one of the 108 Shakti peeths. The story of the Shakti peeths goes like this; once Sati fought with her husband Shiva to attend her father's great yagna. At the grand yagna, Sati's father Daksha insulted her husband. Sati was angered and in her shame, she jumped into the fire and killed herself. When Shiva came to know that his beloved wife had committed suicide, he went insane with rage. He placed Sati's dead body on his shoulders and did the tandav or dance of destruction.The God of love, Kamadeva had lost his virility due to a curse. He sought out the Shakti's womb and genitals and was freed from the curse. This is where 'love' gained his potency and thus, the deity 'Kamakhya' devi was installed and worshipped here. Some people also believe that the Kamakhya temple is a place where Shiva and devi Sati had their romantic encounters. As the Sanskrit word for lovemaking is 'kama', the place was named Kamakhya.The Kamakhya temple is dedicated to the tantric goddesses. Apart from the deity Kamakhya Devi, compound of the temple houses 10 other avatars of Kali namely Dhumavati, Matangi, Bagola, Tara, Kamala, Bhairavi, Chinnamasta, Bhuvaneshwari and Tripuara Sundari. There is no statue, idol or image of Devi in the temple, but in the corner of the cave in the temple, there is sculptured image of the yoni or Vagina of the goddess, which is the object of worship and reverence.Vatsyayana, a Vedic Sage in Varanasi during the later first Century was approached by the King in the Himalayan region (now Nepal) to find a solution to convert the tribals and their rituals of human sacrifice to a more socially accepted worship.The Sage suggested the worship of a tantric goddess Tara that spread towards the eastern Himalayan beltThe worship of all female deity in Assam symbolizes the "fusion of faiths and practices" of Aryan and non-Aryan elements in AssamWhen Rudra Singha died, his eldest son siba singha(reign 1714 to 1744), who became the king, gave the management of the Kamakhya temple and along with it large areas of land (Debottar land) to Mahant Krishnaram Bhattacharyya. The Mahant and his successors came to be known as Parbatiya Gosains, as they resided on top of the Nilachal hill. Many Kamakhya priests and modern Saktas of Assam are either disciples or descendants of the Parbatiya Gosains, or of the Nati and Na Gosains

The origin of the temple is full of interesting stories. According to the mythological stories affiliated with Kamakhya Devi temple history, once Sati’s father invited him to a grand yagna program. Sati (another name of Goddess shakti) wanted to go to that yagna program but her husband Lord Shiva denied her to go there. Then, Sati fought with her husband to attend her father’s great yagna. When sati visited there, her father insulted her husband because of which Sati became so angry and she jumped into the holy fire of the Yagna and killed herself.

Shiva was very insane with rage when he came to know that his beloved wife has killed herself. He carried the dead body of Sati on his shoulders and ran here and there in a madness of losing his love. He did tandava dance which is known as the dance of destruction. When Lord Vishnu saw Lord Shiva this much disturbed, he cut down the body of Sati with his chakra into 108 parts and those body parts get scattered in different areas of the earth. The Kamakhya temple is supposed to be the place where Sati’s womb and vagina part fell down. And that’s why; the temple set up there is taken as a symbol of fertility and strength of the woman.

According to another Kamakhya temple legend, Sati and Lord Shiva had romantic encounters in the place where Kamakhya temple is situated. So, this place is worshiped as the symbol of love and romance. People also say that once Kamadeva, the Lord of Lust and romance was cursed by Lord Shiva that he will not be able to enjoy his romantic powers anymore. When Kamdev sought out Sati’s Vaginal part at the location of Kamakhya temple, his powers came back and he was free from the curse. That’s why the Goddess is named as Kamakhya. These stories are the basis of the history of this wonderful temple.

Architecture Of Kamakhya Temple

The current structure of Kamakhya temple has been built by Ahom kings with remains of the Koch temple. As those remnants were preserved very carefully, they had been used for the construction of this new temple in a beautiful way. The destruction of the temple took place in mid of 2nd millennium and reconstruction of the same took place in 1565 by Chilarai, Koch dynasty. Like all the other medieval temples, the temple was designed in the same style having Shikhar like a beehive. This is the feature of lower Assam; the panels of the temple have been designed with delightful images of Lord Ganesh and other Hindu Gods.

There are three main chambers in the temple with sculptures of Lord Narnarayana in the walls of all the chambers. The western chamber is not opened for common pilgrims. The middle chamber has a small statue of the Goddess. The middle chamber leads the way to a cave-like Sanctorum that bears a vagina-shaped cleft made up of stone. An underground spring flows through this cleft.

The Kamakhya Devi temple architecture is famous for the design of its garbhgraha which bears a pancharatha plan that resembles the Tezpur’s Surya temple. The architectural style of this part of the temple has been adopted from the central Indian temples. This consists of sunken panels designed alternatively with pillars. From inside, the garbhagraha is dark and small that can be reached through narrow steep steps of stone. The vulva shaped depression of stones there is worshiped as the Goddess Kamakhya and reputed as one of the most important 51 shaktipeeths. There are other temples also in the complex having the same idol of the Goddess in the garbhagraha; a vulva shaped stone filled with underground water spring.

The sacred temple has well-organized system inside the structure everywhere. There are separate sites to offer Prasad, lighting diyas and breaking coconuts inside Kamakhya Temple. Shops to buy offerings are available near the temple. The main structure inside the temple is the garbhagraha, which is nothing but a yoni shaped stone supposed to be holy and sacred. There is no image or statue of the Goddess there. It is hard to see anything inside the temple because only 2 or 3 lamps are lighted there. Special poojas and prayers are performed by pandas in the temple.

The Kamakhya temple is seen as the sign of a woman’s strength and natural physiology. The Goddess is called as the bleeding Devi or menstruating Goddess because, in the month of Ashadha (June), the devi starts menstruating automatically. The proof of this menstruation is that the water of the underground spring below the vulva-shaped stone in the garbhagraha turns red. This menstruation process lasts for three days and priests of the temple don’t allow anyone to enter the temple. It means the Goddess is not allowed to be worshiped during those three days. The pilgrims are just allowed to dip their handkerchiefs in the ‘red’ water of the spring that comes out from the garbhagraha through a narrow stream. Worshippers keep those ‘red’ handkerchiefs secured with them as Devi’s offerings for good luck.

There is no scientific proof that the red color of the spring’s water is because of blood. Many people believe that the red color of the water is due to the vermillion which is mixed by the priests. So, there is no evidence of the menstruation of the Goddess but this process is seen with great respect by worshippers of the Goddess. Ultimately, it is the sign of ‘Shakti’ (strength) of every woman of the world.

On this occasion, a grand festival is celebrated in the temple named as Ambhuwasi. During the three days of Goddess’ menstruation, the doors of the temple remain closed and on the fourth day, a big celebration is done when the door is opened.

Kamakhya temple sindoor is supposed to have a blessing of Maa Kamakhya. This vermillion is called Kamiya sindoor which helps in black magic and Vashi Karan pooja. The process can be applied on your enemy or opponent. According to the story sindoor is used for preparing spiritual items which protect you from your enemy as well as resolve the black magic problems.

The Kamiya sindoor possesses special properties of avoiding witchcraft problems and bhoot prêt badha. It is found in crystallized form and can be received by the priests of the temple.

Using the Kamiya Sindoor is very easy; you need nothing but to mix the sindoor with Ggangajal or water of any other holy river. Now, make religious symbols such as om, the swastika in the front door of your house with this sindoor. Also, use the same for your office, factory and business site. Apply this sindoor in forehead of your family members, relatives, and friends for their goodness. Mix the sindoor in pure water and sprinkle this water all over the home.

Kamakhya Devi is also known well for vashikaran tantra; means a ritual practice to attract someone towards you as per your desire. This practice is done especially when you want to convince someone for being agreed with your thoughts and you know that you want him to agree for the right thing. By using the vashikaran method, you can easily convince a person to agree with your thoughts and help your loved one to come out of the hazard. The kamakhya vashikaran tantra specialists in the temple help devotees to understand the vashikaran tantra and way to use it.

The magical vashikaran tantra helps people to overcome many problems of their life as follows –

• It prevents divorce and makes your relationship healthy.
• It attracts lots of wealth and financial benefit for your life.
• You can get your love back with this vashikaran tantra.
• You can have all materialistic gains through this tantra.
• Your business and career will reach hikes by using it.
• The way of using the tantra and is explained by the tantra pooja specialists of the temple. By following that proper way, you can achieve your target.
• And these are just a few benefits that are observable as blessings of Devi will vary as per the needs of her devotee.

The temple is famous for a special pooja which is done for removal of black magic. Performed by Sadhus  who stay in the temple, this special pooja involves some rituals that cure people who suffer from black magic problems. The sadhus performing the black magic removal worship can be found anywhere inside the temple premise. From the ancient time only, this temple has been dedicated for special Kamakhya black magic removal pooja and known as the place of tantrikism. It is said that this temple is the only place where all 10 mahavidyas stay together.

Pooja of Kamakhya Devi lasts for nine days in navratri and all the important rituals are performed behind the doors. During the Kamakhya Devi pooja, various types of sacrifices are performed such as goats, pigeons, fish, Gourd, pumpkins, buffaloes. A human model made up of flour is also sacrificed to fulfill the ancient times tradition of this pooja.

Another important ritual of the temple is pohan biya. This is nothing but a symbolic marriage of lord kameshwar and kameshwari. This practice is done in the month of Pusa. Four noteworthy poojas of the temple are Durgadeul, vasanti, Mdandeul and Mansa pooja are also there. The first three poojas take place during the month of phalguna and chaitra while the last pooja takes place in Shravan.

You can visit Kamakhya Temple official website to know more about the timetable of pooja and sadhana. The temple is located 6 km from the Guwahati railway station. After reaching the station from the train, you can hire a taxi to reach the temple. while the temple is located 20 km away from the Guwahati airport; you can book a can in advance to visit the temple after reaching the airport.

The best time to visit the Kamakhya temple is June when you can enjoy the famous Ambuwasi festival and get the Kamiya sindoor. Getting the Kamakhya temple VIP pass and kamakhya devi darshan tickets is possible online or from the counters in the temple.

According to the Kamakhya Devi Temple timming, the doors of the temples are opened at 8 AM daily for devotees (except the three days of menstruation during the month of June). The doors are closed at 1 PM for cooked offering to the Goddess which is distributed among devotees later. At 2.30 PM, temple’s doors are opened again for devotees. At 5.30, the aarti of the Goddess takes place after which the doors are closed for the night.

Although, you can visit the temple any weekday whole year but to enjoy the most auspicious celebration; the ambuwashi pooja, you should plan your trip to the Kamakhya Temple during the menstruation period of the Goddess. This occasion takes place in the month of June and lasts for 4 days. After 3 days of the menstruating time of the Goddess, the fourth day is celebrated in the form of a big fair.

Being the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy great time exploring the historical and spiritual wealth of the country, the Kamakhya temple facts attract thousands of tourists every year. An outstanding combination of rejuvenated designs, attractive sculptures, and treasure of adventures make this temple different from others; that’s why even the foreign tourists love to add this place to their list of Indian destinations to visit.