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The Goddess of Power is worshipped at this famous shrine whose idol is believed to have appeared on its own. Durga Temple Varanasi is a spectacular temple in the North Indian Nagara style of architecture with multi-tiered shikhara. It is also a fine example of the art of stonework. It is said that Durga Temple Varanasi has a special well inside, whose water is believed to cure several diseases and ailments. The well is said to be a mixture of several underground streams and it is very much revered among the devotees.
Located south of the main Varanasi ghats, this 18th-century temple is accessible by a narrow lane flanked by shops selling puja paraphernalia and flowers. Its sanctum houses a vivid idol of the Goddess, clad in red and riding a tiger. She is armed with her trident, discus, and sword. This is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus and lakhs of pilgrims visit this magnificent temple during the Navratri festival.
Adjacent to the main temple is a rectangular tank of water called Durga Kund. This was at one time connected to the river so that it was always replenished but the connection was later closed. It is a beautiful and serene spot that is visited by many people on the occasion of Nag Panchami when the act of depicting Lord Vishnu reclining on a coiled Shesha (mythical snake) is recreated in this Kund.
What is Durga Temple Varanasi famous for?
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this prominent temple is located in the vicinity of one of the most prominent Ghats of Varanasi. The deity is worshipped as Shakti, the female element of power and harmony in nature. She is believed to have slain the buffalo demon Mahishasura in battle and as a result, this temple holds immense importance in the Hindu religion.
The main idol in the temple is crafted in a unique way that shows her riding on a lion or a tiger with weapons like a sword, shield, and trident in her hands. She also has a baby with her in her lap. The idols of Baba Bhaironath, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Mata Kali are installed in separate temples nearby. The Durga Kund which is a rectangular pond is situated along the right side of the temple and adds to its beauty. The pond was earlier connected with the river and hence it automatically replenishes every time. It is also where the act of Lord Vishnu resting on Shesha Naga is recreated during the festival of Nag Panchami.
Durga Temple is a revered destination for all Hindus who come here to pray and seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. They also chant mantras to connect with the Goddess and invoke her powers. The temple is abuzz with activity during major festivals of the Hindus, especially Navratri. It also becomes a popular venue for performances during Kartika Puja which is celebrated in November every year.
What is the history of Durga Temple Varanasi?
Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, the Durga Temple is one of the most important temples in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is stained red with ochre. This temple is built in Nagara Style (North Indian Temple architecture) and has a multi-tiered shikhara. It is also known as the ‘monkey temple’ since many monkeys hang around it.
This temple is located on a rectangular tank called Durga Kund. It is said that a water channel used to connect the Durga Kund to the Ganges, but it has disappeared now. A pond is maintained in the vicinity of the temple for devotees to take a holy dip before visiting the temple.
The sanctum sanctorum of this temple is small and has a vivid idol of Goddess Durga riding on a tiger, holding her trident, discus, and sword. The idol is considered a manifestation of Shakti and therefore it is worshiped by Hindus.
It is believed that Goddess Durga keeps Varanasi safe and protected. Hence, it is an important temple that should be visited once in life.
Legend has it that Swami Vivekananda once visited this temple during his trip to Varanasi. While he was walking back from the temple, a herd of monkeys started chasing him. Frightened, he began to run, but an old saint came in front of him and told him to face them instead of running away. He did so and the monkeys ran away.
FAQs
Who built the Durga temple in Varanasi?
Lord Parashurama built the Durga temple in Varanasi.
How to Reach Maa Durga Temple?
It depends on the place you are coming from. Maa Durga Temple is 2 km from BHU and 13 kilometers from Cantt Varanasi
Maa Durga Temple Entry Fee/Cost?
For Dharma Darshanam there is no entry fee, for Sheegra Darshanam Rs. 300 per person, and Mukha Mandapam Darshanam it is Rs. 100 per person.
What is the timing of Durga Kund?
5:00 am to 12:00 pm. 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm.