A golden idol mesmerizes. This is the Sheetla Mata Mandir. Right here before you stands a temple steeped in history and legend.
The Sheetla Mata Mandir also known as the Masani Temple is a Shakti Peeth. It’s a place of immense cultural and religious significance. It’s located about a kilometer and a half outside Gurgaon near a pond. The presiding deity is Sheetla Mata also known as Bhagat Lalita Ma and Masani Ma. She is considered an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Sheetla means smallpox. Devotees believe prayers to Sheetla Mata cure this disease. The 4kg statue is made of mixed metal with a gold polish. It rests in a wooden casket on a marble platform.
Legend says a shrine sacred to the goddess existed in Kesopur village. Around 250 years ago the goddess appeared in a dream to Singha a Jat of Gurgaon. She instructed him to build her a shrine in his village. He was also granted all the offerings. The temple was built and its fame spread.
The temple is large despite being on a narrow road. There is no car park. Two shops sell offerings outside the gate. Inside a concrete path leads to the entrance. An arched structure stands midway between well-maintained lawns. Resting places are available for pilgrims.
The sanctum is a large hallway leading to a small room. The main idol is visible from the hallway. A narrow path with railings leads to Sheetla Mata. Devotees pray from a distance through a window-like structure. The idol is stunning with its gold polish precious jewels and beautiful clothes. A large gold nose ring enhances its beauty. Priests accept offerings and distribute prashad.
The temple is easily accessible by road rail and air. The nearest railway station is IFFCO Chowk. Indira Gandhi International Airport is the closest airport. The temple opens at 5 am and closes at 9 pm. Daily pujas include archana aarti and abhisekham.
Thousands of devotees visit particularly on Mondays during Chaitra (March-April). Many come for the mundan (first haircut) ceremony. People suffering from smallpox perform Jal dema a ritual involving an all-night vigil. Married couples visit for blessings. The annual Masani Fair attracts thousands.
The Sheetla Mata Mandir also houses other deities Lord Hanuman Lord Shiva Shani Dev and Goddess Durga. There are also halls for mundan ceremonies satsang and bhandara. This is a place of healing faith and vibrant devotion. The Sheetla Mata Mandir is more than a temple it is a living testament to faith.