Jayanti Devi Temple

The Jayanti Devi Temple is situated on a hillock in Jayanti Majri village, approximately 15 km from Chandigarh in the Mohali district of Punjab, India. The temple is dedicated to Jayanti Devi, the goddess of victory.

History and Legend

Oral tradition suggests the temple's history dates back about 550 years to the time of the Lodi dynasty. According to legend, the Pandavas also built a temple to Jayanti Devi, which led to the establishment of the town of Jayantipuri. A significant narrative recounts how the goddess promised to accompany a princess of the Kangra clan when she was married far from her ancestral home. The princess's doli (palanquin) became inexplicably heavy, prompting her father to arrange for a separate doli to carry the idol of Jayanti Devi with her. The king of Hathnaur then established a temple for the goddess on a hillock. Later, a local ruler named Garibu, also known as Garibdas, who was a devotee of the goddess, renovated and expanded the temple.

Religious Significance

Jayanti Devi is venerated as one of the seven sister goddesses of the Kangra valley, a group that includes other prominent deities like Naina Devi and Jawalamukhi. The reverence for Jayanti Devi is reflected in local customs, such as the restriction on house construction to a single storey in Jayanti Majri village. An ancient well at the temple's base is known for providing sweet water year-round. The goddess is considered highly sensitive and benevolent, responsive to the prayers of her devotees.

Temple Complex and Features

The temple complex is substantial, featuring a park and the Jayanti Archeological Museum. Access to the temple is via a large gate at the base of the hillock, followed by approximately 100 steps leading to the main premises. Along these steps, small shops sell religious items and souvenirs. A large, traditional concrete water tank, historically used for temple needs, is a notable feature. The temple itself is located at the highest point of the hillock, supported by robust pillars, offering panoramic views of the surrounding green landscape and settlements. The sanctum sanctorum houses the stone idol of the goddess, while niches outside contain images of other deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Bala Sundari, and the local deity Lokda Dev.

Fairs and Management

The temple hosts a significant fair on the Purnima day in February, which draws an estimated 1.5 lakh visitors from various places. A smaller fair is held in August. Devotees also visit during Navratras and on auspicious days. The temple's management is overseen by two committees: one comprises the priest's family and villagers of Jayanti Majri, responsible for construction and expansion, and the other consists of residents from Mullanpur. Both committees organize community feasts (Bhandara/Dhaam) regularly. The temple relies solely on devotee contributions for its income and is currently developing a dharamshala to accommodate pilgrims.