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Uttar Pradesh Vindhyavasini Temple
Hindu Goddess Durga is known by different names among which the name 'Vindhyavasini' is a vital one. This name represents the merciful, pitiful and generous nature of Durga Mata. On the banks of Ganga River, at Vindhyachal, temple of Durga Mata is located. This temple is 8 km away from Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.
The name of the temple as well as goddess Durga gets the name of Vindhyavasini also due to the Vindhya Range. 'Vasini' is a Hindi word that literally means 'a lady who resides'. Thus, Vindhyavasini means that the goddess who resides in Vindhya.
According to Hindu belief, wherever the body parts of Sati had fallen on planet, Shaktipeeths were formed. Apart from being a Shaktipeeth, Vindhyachal is a place which was chosen by Durga Mata to reside post her birth.
History
There is a story why goddess Durga chose to reside in Vindhyachal. According to the story, when Lord Krishna was born, Mahamaya was born to Nanda-Yashoda at the same time. Since all were aware that Kansa would kill Krishna, Vasudev replaced Mahamaya with Krishna as per the instruction of Lord Vishnu. When Kansa went to kill Mahamaya, she freed herself from his captivity and mocked at him stating that he is a big fool because the boy who is going to take his life has been replaced by her and is in safe hands. Thereafter, she escaped from Kansa's Mathura's prison and permanently planned to reside in the mountains of Vindhyanchal.
According to another Hindu mythology, it is believed that Goddess Durga had killed Mahishasura- The Demon, and thereafter had established herself in this region. This is also the reason why she is known as Vindhyavasini in Vindhyanchal regions. Another popular name of this temple is Kajala Devi.
During Jyeshtha month (summer season- June Month) a folk competition is hosted at this place which is known as Kajali competition. This competition is one of the biggest attractions for the residents of this place.
How To Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Varanasi, which is also known as Lal Bahadur Shashtri Airport. You can hire an auto or a cab from Varanasi to reach Vindhyavasini Temple. The distance between Vindhyanchal and Varanasi is 90 km. Several domestic flights connect other major cities such as Delhi, Khajuraho and Agra to Varanasi.
By Train
You can reach Varanasi Junction or Mirzapur Station or Vindhyanchal Station by train. From Mirzapur you can hire an auto.
By Road
You can reach Vindhyanchal by bus too. Buses ply from Allahabad to Vindhyanchal and Vindhyanchal to Varanasi at regular intervals. You can also hire a Cycle rickshaw (pulled by men) to reach there.
Important Shrines
Another popular temple Ashtbhuja Temple is situated on a small hill at a distance of 3 km which is of Maha Sarswati. Devotees, who visit Vindhyavasini temple, do not forget to visit this temple. The 3rd very popular temple of Goddess Kali known as Kali Khoh Mandir (Temple) too is situated nearby. Since this Kali temple is situated in a cave, it attracts lots of viewers every year. Some devotees find it must to visit all these 3 temples because visiting all these 3 temples together is the requirement of a rite known as Trilokan Parikrama.
Significance Of The Temple
Vindhyavasini Devi Temple is regarded as one of the holiest shrines not only in Uttar Pradesh but also in whole India and is also considered amongst the most respected, holy and revered Shakti Peethas of the Kali Mata (Kali Goddess).
In the scriptures of Hindus, this temple is mentioned as a holy shrine which enhances its religious significance.
Weather And Time To Visit
April, June and October months are considered to be the best time to visit this temple.
Accomodation
There are several hotels, lodges, dharamshalas and guest houses near Vindhyanchal apart from Hotel Jahnavi (UPSTDC). Therefore, devotees don’t find any difficulty in staying near Vindhyavasini temple.
Tips For Devotees
Devotees visiting this temple usually do not face much problem on the way. But for the sake of safety, they should try to keep the cell phone numbers of the important persons related to the management of the temple. They should also have the numbers and the address of the key hotels. Essential belongings should not be forgotten; to be taken care of. While visiting in October, you may need to carry some warm clothes.
Rules And Rituals Of Temple
Mangal Aarti is conducted in the morning from 4 am to 5 am. Raj Shree Aarti at 12 pm from 1.30 pm, Chhoti Aarti from 7.15 pm to 8.30 pm and Badi Shayan Aarti from 9.30 pm to 10.30 pm. free counseling is also given to the devotees by the experts. The temple management (if requested by the pilgrims) arranges on behalf of the devotees who want to sponsor pooja or lungars.
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