Spiritual Sanctuary: Exploring Sacred Devi Temples in Madhya Pradesh This Navratri

By Dr. Vanita Srivastava

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As the auspicious Chaitra Navratri approaches on March 30, devotees across the country prepare to honor Goddess Durga in her many divine forms. This nine-day festival begins with Ghatasthapana on Pratipada, where a sacred kalash (pot) is placed as a symbol of the Goddess. Throughout Navratri, temples across India become hubs of devotion, and Madhya Pradesh is home to some of the most revered spiritual destinations.

From ancient Shakti Peeths to serene hilltop shrines, the state offers a rich tapestry of temples where the Goddess is worshipped, and prayers are fervently offered.

Here's a guide to some of the most significant temples in Madhya Pradesh that you can visit this Navratri to experience divine blessings and spiritual tranquility.

Datia Shakti Peeth

Located in Datia, this revered temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, specifically in her form as Baglamukhi. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, sacred spots where parts of Sati's body are said to have fallen after her self-immolation. This makes the site deeply sacred for devotees.

The main deity, Baglamukhi, represents protection, victory, and the destruction of evil forces. The temple architecture follows traditional Hindu design, with an ornate shikhara (tower), intricately carved pillars, and a peaceful courtyard. The sanctum houses a four-armed idol of the goddess holding a club and a noose, symbolizing her power over negative energies.

During Navratri, the temple sees a surge of pilgrims seeking blessings and offering prayers.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport, about 70 km away.
• By Train: Datia Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states.

Maihar Devi Temple

Situated in Maihar, Satna district, the Maihar Devi Temple is dedicated to Maihar Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple is perched atop Trikuta Hill and is accessible via 600 steps, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The temple's sanctum enshrines a simple yet elegant idol of Maihar Devi. Legends say that the head of Goddess Durga fell here during a battle. During Navratri, thousands of devotees flock to the temple to seek blessings.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Khajuraho Airport, 130 km away.
• By Train: Maihar Railway Station is just 3 km from the temple, with connections to cities like Jabalpur, Satna, and Kolkata.
• By Road: Maihar is around 35 km from Satna.

Chausath Yogini Temple

Located in Jabalpur, the Chausath Yogini Temple is dedicated to the 64 Yoginis, powerful goddesses representing divine energy. Situated near the Dhuandhar Falls in Bhedaghat, the temple has a distinctive circular layout with 64 shrines dedicated to each Yogini.

The temple's scenic surroundings, including the forest and waterfalls, create a serene atmosphere for worship. Navratri sees special rituals and offerings to the Yoginis.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Jabalpur Airport is 25 km from the temple.
• By Train: Jabalpur Junction is the nearest station, with taxis or autos available to the temple.

Bijasan Mata Temple

Located atop a hill in Indore, the Bijasan Mata Temple is dedicated to Bijasan Mata, a form of Goddess Durga. The temple offers panoramic views of Indore and is a hub of devotion, especially during Navratri when daily rituals and celebrations take place.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Indore Airport (Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport) is about 15-20 km away.
• By Train: Indore Junction is well-connected to major cities.

Kalka Mata Temple

Located in Ratlam, the Kalka Mata Temple is over 350 years old and holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. It is believed that King Ratan Singh installed the idol of Mata Rani here. The temple experiences a surge of devotees during Navratri, with a vibrant fair held nearby.

How to Reach:

• By Train: Ratlam Railway Station is well-connected to major cities.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Indore Airport.

Mandre Mata Temple

Situated in Kampu, Gwalior, the Mandre Mata Temple is over 140 years old and draws devotees during Navratri. Devotees offer coconuts, flowers, turmeric, and threads, believing that these offerings will fulfill their wishes.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Gwalior Airport is well-connected to major cities.
• By Train: Gwalior Junction is a major railway station.

Shondesh Narmada Shakti Peeth

Located in Amarkantak, Anuppur district, the Shondesh Narmada Shakti Peeth is over 6,000 years old and one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. It is believed that fragments from Mount Kailash and Amarkantak fell here, making it a powerful site for spiritual purification. During Navratri, thousands of devotees visit to receive blessings.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Jabalpur Airport is the nearest major airport.
• By Train: Pendr Road is the nearest railway station.

Curfew Wali Mata Temple

The Curfew Wali Mata Temple in Bhopal has a unique history. It was established during Navratri in 1981, gaining its name after a curfew was imposed during a dispute over the idol installation. The temple's intricate design features an eternal flame, and it attracts thousands of devotees each year.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Bhopal Airport is nearby.
• By Train: Bhopal Station is well-connected by rail.

Bhairav Parvat Shakti Peeth

Located in Ujjain, the Bhairav Parvat Shakti Peeth is dedicated to Goddess Avantika (a form of Goddess Durga). It is believed to be the site where Sati's upper lip fell, making it one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. The temple's vibrant architecture and the red sari-draped idol of Goddess Avantika are major attractions.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Indore Airport is 55 km away.
• By Train: Ujjain Junction is the nearest railway station.

Salkanpur Devi Temple

Perched atop Salkanpur Hill in Sehore district, the Salkanpur Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bijasan. The temple complex also houses shrines for Goddess Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Bhairav. Visitors can climb over 1,000 steps or take a ropeway to reach the temple. A grand fair is held during Navratri.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Accessible by bus or taxi from Sehore.