Chandrika Devi Temple, Lucknow

Chandrika Devi Temple is a sacred temple of one of the many forms of Hindu Mother Goddess Durga in the city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a prominent pilgrimage site for locals. It is also a tourist destination for the people of adjoining cities. There is a Bazaar outside the temple which sells Toys, Brass items used in worship, inexpensive Jewellery, Souvenirs, Iron tools for gardening and cooking Utensils. Several Dhabas which are Indian Style restaurants are present both inside and outside the temple premises which serve Indian fast food.

Maa Chandrika Devi Temple
माँ चन्द्रिका देवी मंदिर
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DistrictLucknow district
DeityDurga
Location
LocationLucknow
StateUttar Pradesh
CountryIndia
Architecture
TypeHindu architecture
Elevation123 m (404 ft)

History

It is situated on the bank of river Gomti at the north-west of National Highway No.24 (Lucknow-Sitapur Road) in Kathvara village, near Lucknow City. This temple is 300 years old and is well known for the deity Chandrika Devi - a form of Goddess Durga. Located in a natural environment encircled by river Gomti at north, west and south side, it is around 28 km away from the main city of Lucknow. It is about 45 km away from Lucknow Airport. This place and nearby areas have relevance and religious significance since the time of the Ramayana. It is also called Mahi Sagar Teerth. There is mention of this temple in the holy books of Skand and Karma Puran.[1]

It is said that elder son of Shri Lakshmana - the founder of Lucknow, Rajkumar Chandraketu, was once passing with Ashwamegh Horse through Gomti. In the way, it became dark and hence he had to take rest in the then dense forest. He prayed Goddess for safety. Within a moment there was cool moon light and the Goddess appeared before him and assured him. It is said that a grand temple established here during that era was destroyed in 12th century by foreign invaders. It is also said that around 250 years back some nearby villagers, while roaming in the forests, located this beautiful place- which was hidden with dense forests. Next day, a villager could locate the statue of Devi and it was placed at the present place. Later on, a temple was constructed and since then people continued to visit this temple and offer 'Pooja' after knowing the appearance of Ma Chandrika Devi. This place is also known as Mahi Sagar Teerth.[2]

It is also said that in Dwaper Yug God Shri Krishna advised Barbreek, son of Ghatotkach, about the Tirth for acquiring power. Barbreek worshiped Ma Chandrika Devi for continuous 3 years at this place.

On the eve of Amavasya and Navratras, a lot of religious activities in the temple and around the temple premises are held. People from different parts of the State, come here for Hawan (Yagya), Mundan (total hair-cut). In addition, during these days, Kirtans, satsang (religious meetings) are also held.[3]

References
  1. "Chandrika Devi Temple in Lucknow". chandrika-devi-temple-lucknow.blogspot.in. Retrieved 27 December 2015.
  2. "Temples in Lucknow, Mandir in Lucknow, List of Temples in Lucknow". www.lucknowonline.in. Retrieved 27 December 2015.
  3. "Lucknow : Nawabon Ka Shahar: Temples in Lucknow". lucknowlive12.blogspot.in. Retrieved 27 December 2015.

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