Mahavir Mandir
Mahavir Mandir is a prominent Hindu temple in Patna, Bihar, India, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Known for its significant earnings and large pilgrim numbers, it is one of the leading temples for Hanuman worship. The temple has a long history, with its current structure dating to a rebuilding effort in 1987.
Key Facts
- ›Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, an avatar of Hanuman known as Sankat-Mochan.
- ›Attracts millions of pilgrims annually, with particularly large crowds on Ramnavami.
- ›The temple trust ranks second in earnings in North India, after the Vaishno Devi Temple.
- ›Established around 1730 CE by Swami Balanand, an ascetic of the Ramanandi sect.
- ›Rebuilt as a concrete structure after 1947 and demolished in 1987 for the current marble temple.
- ›Has a Dalit priest, Suryavanshi Das, serving since 1993.
Hanuman
- Major Pilgrimage Destination For Lord Hanuman Devotees
- Significant Religious and Cultural Center In Bihar
- Known For Its High Temple Earnings and Philanthropic Activities
Ramnavami, New Year
Marble
Swami Balanand
Idol of Sankat-Mochan
About Mahavir Mandir
Mahavir Mandir is a significant Hindu temple located in Patna, Bihar, India, primarily dedicated to the worship of Lord Hanuman. It is recognized as one of the leading temples for Hanuman worship and draws millions of pilgrims each year, particularly during festivals.
History and Development
The temple's origins are ancient, with a Patna High Court judgment in 1948 stating its existence since time immemorial. Historical scrutiny suggests it was originally established around 1730 CE by Swami Balanand, an ascetic belonging to the Ramanandi sect. The temple gained substantial popularity following the partition of India in 1947, with the influx of Hindu refugees to Patna. The structure was rebuilt as a concrete house after 1947 and subsequently demolished in 1987 to construct the current, larger marble temple. The central idol represents Sankat-Mochan, an avatar of Hanuman.
Pilgrimage and Devotion
Mahavir Mandir is a major pilgrimage site, especially for devotees of Hanuman. Long queues are a common sight, particularly on Saturdays and Tuesdays, which are considered auspicious days for Hanuman worship. Thousands of people visit the temple during celebrations like Rama Navami and New Year, with queues sometimes extending over a kilometer on Rama Navami.
Temple Trust and Philanthropy
The temple is managed by the Shri Mahavir Sthan Nyas Samiti, headed by Acharya Kishore Kunal. The trust is notable for its substantial earnings, ranking second in North India after the Vaishno Devi shrine. These funds are utilized for extensive philanthropic activities, including the operation of the Mahavir Cancer Institute & Research Centre, Mahavir Vaatsalya Hospital, Mahavir Arogya Hospital, and other healthcare facilities and orphanages across Bihar. Additionally, the trust operates 'Ram Rasoi,' a free food service for devotees in Ayodhya.
Publications and Cultural Contributions
In 1990, the temple initiated the publication of 'Dharmayan,' a magazine focused on culture, religion, and nationality. This publication has maintained continuous circulation and celebrated its Diamond Jubilee with the release of its 100th issue. Acharya Kishore Kunal serves as the Chief Editor of Dharmayan.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mahavir Mandir originally established?
Historical records suggest the temple was originally established around 1730 CE by Swami Balanand, an ascetic of the Ramanandi sect. However, a Patna High Court judgment in 1948 stated the temple has existed since time immemorial.
Why are there long queues at Mahavir Mandir on Saturdays and Tuesdays?
Saturdays and Tuesdays are traditionally considered worshiping days for Lord Hanuman. Consequently, long queues of devotees can be seen at the temple on these days, seeking blessings.
What is the significance of Mahavir Mandir's earnings?
Mahavir Mandir has exceptionally high daily earnings, reportedly over one lakh rupees. This financial success makes its trust the second highest in Northern India, surpassed only by the Vaishno Devi Temple trust.
What philanthropic activities are undertaken by the Mahavir Mandir Trust?
The Mahavir Mandir Trust, also known as Shri Mahavir Sthan Nyas Samiti, uses temple funds for various welfare initiatives. These include running hospitals like Mahavir Cancer Institute & Research Centre, Mahavir Vaatsalya Hospital, Mahavir Arogya Hospital, along with other hospitals and orphanages in Bihar.
What is 'Ram Rasoi' at Mahavir Mandir?
Ram Rasoi is a facility within the Amawa Mandir Complex, Ayodhya, managed by the Mahavir Mandir Trust. It provides free food to devotees visiting Ramlala, serving meals daily from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm, initially for one thousand people.
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Tara Devi Temple is a prominent Hindu religious site located at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level near Shimla, India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara Devi and is believed to grant blessings and fulfill the wishes of devotees who visit with unwavering faith. It is a popular destination, drawing thousands of visitors, especially on weekends.