Saptashrungi Mata Mandir, Nashik

Saptashrungi Mata Mandir, Nashik History, Timings & How to reach

About 60 kilometers from Nasik is the Hindu pilgrimage site of Saptashrungi. The half “Shaktipeeth” of the three and a half Shaktipeeths in Maharashtra is the temple dedicated to the goddess Saptashrungi Nivasin. One of the limbs of Lord Shiva’s wife Sati’s right arm is thought to have fallen here. The seven mountain peaks that encircle Saptashrungi contain 108 kundas, or bodies of water, as well as forests that are abundant in medicinal herbs.

It takes about two minutes to ascend the temple’s 510 steps or use the ropeway, which costs INR 90 for adults and INR 45 for children. There is a canteen with food service. The temple provides its followers with complimentary meals on special occasions like Navratri and Poornima. To use this service on regular days, each devotee must pay INR 15 in prasad. Food is served between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

Legend of Saptashrungi Mata Mandir, Nashik

According to legend, Devi Sati, Lord Shiva’s first wife, had a father who disapproved of her husband because he thought he was just a mendicant. As a result, he invited all of his distant friends and family members to his yagna, but he left Devi Sati and Lord Shiva out. Devi Sati was deeply humiliated when her father refused to acknowledge her presence at the yagna and began disparaging Lord Shiva, whom she had married out of love and respect. Devi Sati, humiliated and furious, threw herself into the yagna’s flames and died.

Lord Shiva arrived at the scene enraged and depressed after hearing this news. He began circling the universe after picking up Devi Sati’s lifeless body. Lord Shiva lost control of himself while in a trance and in grief. Given how serious the situation was, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu made the decision to restore him to his normal self. As Lord Shiva traveled the world, Lord Vishnu divided Devi Sati’s body into fifty-one pieces. These fifty-one pieces of body fell at various places throughout the Indian subcontinent, which are all known as “Shakhti Peethas.” A Shakti Peeth was formed when Devi Sati’s right arm and limbs fell on the Saptashringi hills.

According to legend, Lord Brahma, the universe’s creator, used his own kamandalu (water pot) to create the goddess Saptashrungi Nivasini.

Another Legend of Saptashrungi Mata Mandir, Nashik

When Mahishasura was wreaking havoc on the universe, the powerful goddess Devi Durga had taken on the form of Devi Durga to vanquish the malevolent demon at the Saptashrungi. Another name for Mahishasura was the buffalo demon. Devi Saptashrungi Nivasini is said to have made the Saptashrungi her home after slaying the buffalo demon. A large statue of a buffalo’s head stands at the temple’s entrance in remembrance of this. The temple’s front yard also features a bell-and lamp-adorned Trishul.

Ramayana Connection

Lord Hanuman flew to these hills to find the “sanjeevani” herb, which was necessary to awaken Laxman when he was unconscious. It is also thought that Lord Ram, Seeta, and Laxman had traveled to these hills in order to obtain the blessings of the great goddess.

Rituals at Saptashrungi Mata Mandir, Nashik

The Devi is described as “swayambhu,” or self-manifested, in the two-leveled shrine. Because it is covered in sindoor, the eight-foot-tall idol has a fiery orange hue. The powerful goddess is eighteen-armed and carries weapons of unbeatable power in each hand. She was given these weapons as a gift to fight and defeat the malevolent demon Mahishasura.

Regarding the goddess, the Devi is adorned with a silver nose ring and a tall, graceful crown. She wears necklaces every day as well. Every day, fresh dresses chosen for the Devi are worn in place of the robe and blouse that flow elegantly on the statue. She receives a formal Abhishek, or warm water bath, prior to being dressed for worship. On festivals, the deity is adorned with pricey and exclusive decorations that are normally kept in the temple’s secure custody. The Saptashrungi temple’s courtyard features a Trishula, or trident, that is adorned with lamps and bells.

How To Reach Saptashrungi Mata Mandir, Nashik

The Nashik Railway Station is the closest train station to Saptashrungi. Regular bus service to the temple is provided by the Maharashtra State Transport Corporation (MSTC), which also provides access to the Saptashrungi hills. Nashik CBS Bus Station is where the majority of buses stop.

You must know Before Visiting Saptashrungi Mata Mandir

1. The Chaitrotsav is the most cherished festival at the temple of Saptashrungi. During this time of year, thousands of people visit the temple, particularly women hoping to become pregnant and seek the Devi’s blessings. Take advantage of the exceptionally high crowds during this time of year when planning your trip.

2. The temple is located 510 steps above the ground. Wear a cap, bring fluids, and dress comfortably for the climb.

3. Watch out for the monkeys.

4. It is dangerous to bring valuables to the temple because they could be stolen or misplaced in crowded areas.

5. The guides at the temple are paid to provide you with the service that they offer. Please do not pay them the money yourself for a tour.