Shree Chamunda Devi Temple, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh
The Chamunda Devi Temple is one of the holiest places in Kangra with many interesting legends and history attached to it. Surrounded by the Dhauladhar range with snow capped peaks the views from the temple will mesmerize you. The breathtaking views make it a spiritual heaven amidst nature’s splendor.
Devotees throng this temple throughout the year. It is believed that whatever you pray for here, manifests in reality. This 16th century temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas dedicated to one of the most powerful and fierce incarnations of Goddess Durga. It is also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham, because the temple is believed to be the abode of Shiva and Shakti.
Chamunda Devi is also one of the chief Yoginis, of a group of 64, who are the attendants of the warrior Goddess Durga. Chamunda is a combination of two names of the monsters Chanda and Munda whom Chamunda Devi killed. She is associated with Goddess Kali, and also with Chandi, Durga and Parvati as well.
The day begins with the morning puja at the temple. Devotees start gathering since sunrise to offer prayers and witness the divine awakening within the temple premises. An afternoon Aarti is conducted which you can witness and can also participate in the rituals. You cannot escape the divine energy that fills the atmosphere in the temple. The evening Aarti is performed at sunset as it is done in most of the temples. The temple resonates with the sounds of bells and conch, bhajans and prayers which create a spiritual atmosphere that lingers in your hearts for long.
History and Mythological Significance:
The Chamunda Devi Temple stands as a testament to centuries of spirituality, faith and devotion. Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, its history is steeped in mythology and folklore, adding a mystical allure to its existence.
As per legends, Goddess Chamunda emerged from the third eye of Goddess Durga to exterminate the demons Chanda and Munda. After a fierce battle, Devi Chamunda killed both of them, who were the generals of the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. The present temple is said to be located in the region where this intense battle ensued.
The original and much older Aadi Himani Chamunda Devi temple, situated at the hilltop, is quite difficult to reach. There is a legend associated with the shifting of this temple to an accessible location. More than 400 years ago, the King of the area, Maharaja Umed Singh along with his priest prayed to the Goddess for permission to move the idol to an accessible location. The Goddess is said to have appeared in the priest’s dream. She gave her consent and also told him the exact spot where her idol would be found. The priest told everything about his dream to the king. The king and his men found the idol in the exact place where the Devi had told the priest it would be found. This is the place where the Chamunda Devi Temple exists presently.
Architecture and Design
The temple’s impressive architecture of the old era is a blend of North Indian and traditional Himalayan styles.
The grandeur of the Chamunda Devi Temple is adorned with intricate craftsmanship, ornate carvings and vibrant colours. This harmonious blend stands as visual testament to the rich cultural heritage of this spiritual place within the serenity of the nature. You can see engravings from the scenes of the Ramayan and Mahabharat in the temple. The design elements of the temple – the Sanctum Santorum (garbhagriha) the pillared hall (mandap) and the spire (shikhar) have significant religious and cultural symbolism.
The Chamunda Devi Temple is situated on the banks of the river Banganga or Baner. The main sanctum houses the idol of Goddess Chamunda, flanked by other deities adding to the spirituality and serene ambience of the temple. It has a Kund( a pond/lake) where you can take a dip. It is believed that this holy dip purifies your souls. In this 16th century temple you will see idols of Chamunda Devi, Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman. You will get to see the main idol of the Goddess Chamunda, vibrant and fierce, from the entrance with garlands of skulls, serpents and scorpions. Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman are considered as protectors of the Goddess Chamunda.
Within the temple premise you will find a marble staircase that leads you downstairs to a Shiva cave temple, where the Lingam is worshipped. This Shiva temple is popularly known here as the Nandikeshwar Mahadev temple.
Over the years, the temple has gone through many renovations and several expansions. It was initially built using wood with gabled roofs.
Special occasions and festivals:
You will find a lot of gaiety and grand celebrations during auspicious occasions and festivals. The temple comes alive with elaborate ceremonies, cultural events and processions. Especially during the Navratri, the festivities are of a different fervour. You will see the town bustling with energy, happiness and enthusiasm. Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple to seek blessings of the Goddess. The temple plays a significant role in promoting religious harmony and cultural exchange.
The temple complex also houses a handicraft centre. You can buy and take home souvenirs from a variety of articles to choose from. You will get the famous Kangra tea, the world famous Kangra paintings, footwear, wooden toys, honey, handkerchiefs, wood carved home decor, black pottery, etc. Visit the temple for a spiritual and cultural experience. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and divine aura makes this a perfect place for meditation and introspection. The tranquility of the place makes you spiritual and connects you with the divine in a serene environment.
References:
Upādhyāya, N. (1994). Temples of Himachal Pradesh: Architectural, sculptural, religious, and cultural significance. B.R. Publishing Corporation
https://kangratemples.hp.gov.in/shri-chamunda-mata-temple
https://traveltriangle.com/blog/shakti-peeth-shri-chamunda-devi-temple
Featuring Image Courtesy: Himalayan Aderenaline
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