Sharda Devi Temple Maihar satna

Sharda Devi Temple, Maihar

The Sharda Devi Temple, located in Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, is a highly revered Hindu pilgrimage site and is recognized as one of the significant Shakti Peethas.

Legends and Origins

The temple's name, Maihar, is derived from a legend stating that the necklace (har) of the mother goddess (Mai) Sati fell at this location when Lord Shiva carried her body. The goddess is worshipped here as Maa Sharda, a form of the goddess Saraswati, and is also known as Mata Sharda Mai. Local lore attributes the first worship at the site to the warriors Alha and Udal, who served under the Chandel king Paramardideva. It is believed that Alha worshipped the goddess for 12 years at this spot and attained immortality through the blessings of Saraswati.

Location and Access

The temple is situated atop the Trikut hill, a prominent landmark in Maihar. Reaching the shrine involves a climb of 1,064 steps, though a ropeway facility is also available for devotees. The temple complex is surrounded by extensive ruins of older shrines and buildings, hinting at its long history.

Religious and Cultural Importance

As a Shakti Peeth, the Sharda Devi Temple holds immense religious importance for Hindus. It attracts a large number of pilgrims, especially during the Navratri festivals. Beyond its religious significance, Maihar is also renowned in the realm of Indian classical music as the birthplace of the Maihar gharana. Allauddin Khan, a celebrated musician, lived in Maihar for many years, and his disciples, including Ravi Shankar and Nikhil Banerjee, played a crucial role in popularizing this school of music.