SHAKUMBHARI MANDIR

Whispers of ancient power echo through the Shivalik mountains, leading us here to the Shakumbhari Mandir. Here at Shakumbhari Mandir, nestled amidst the majestic Shivalik mountain range, the air hums with a divine energy. This revered shrine is located in the Jasmour village, just 40 kilometers north of Saharanpur. The Shakumbhari Mandir is easily accessible from Delhi. You can arrive here by bus or hire a private taxi. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Marathas. While its architecture might not be extraordinary, the spiritual aura that envelops Shakumbhari Mandir sets it apart. Devotees believe that no one leaves the shrine of the Goddess empty-handed. Legend claims Shakumbhari Devi as the slayer of the demon king Mahishasur. Stories tell of her incredible penance, lasting 100 years, where she consumed a vegetarian meal only once a month. During a century-long drought, Shakumbhari Devi sustained all living beings with plants and vegetables. Saints and sages, drawn to her divine presence, were welcomed with vegetarian meals. This devotion to vegetarian sustenance earned her the name Shakumbhari Devi. It’s said that Sankaracharya himself meditated at this very spot. He discovered the idols and placed them within the shrine. Inside the sanctum sanctorum, Shakumbhari Devi resides alongside Bhramari Devi, Bhima Devi, and Sheetla Devi. These goddesses represent different manifestations of the same divine power, Shakti. East of Shakumbhari Mandir, a kilometer away, stands a shrine dedicated to Bhura Dev, Lord Bhairav. He’s considered the guardian of Shakumbhari Devi. A visit to his shrine is considered essential to complete the pilgrimage to Shakumbhari Mandir. Like other temples dedicated to the Goddess, Shakumbhari Mandir bursts with vibrant festivities during Navratra. During the Ashwin and Chaitra Navratras, throngs of pilgrims flock here to pay homage and seek blessings. Shakumbhari Mandir’s spiritual significance and aesthetic beauty continue to draw increasing numbers of devotees each year. The power of Shakumbhari Devi resonates within these walls, a testament to her enduring presence. A visit here is more than just a journey; it’s a connection to the divine.