Prayagraj, the city where the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati converge, is not just a geographical location but a spiritual epicenter. The city’s temples and sacred sites are rich in history, culture, and divinity, attracting millions of devotees each year. From the revered Shri Madhava temples to the powerful Shaktipeeths, Prayagraj holds a unique place in the heart of Indian spirituality. In this article, we will explore some of the prominent temples and their deep significance.
Shri Madhava Temples
- Shri Adiveni Madhav: A unique shrine, it is believed that Shri Adiveni Sangam has vanished into the Triveni Sangam and thus, the entire area is regarded as sacred.
- Shri Asi Madhav: Located in the Nagvasuki temple in Daraganj, this temple is believed to be blessed by Shri Asi Madhav and Lord Shiva, where the Naga Sadhus once resided.
- Shri Sankashtahar Madhav: Situated in Pratishthanpuri (Jhunsi), this temple is associated with the meditation of Shri Prabhudatt ji Brahmachari and features an idol of Shri Madhav Ji.
- Shri Shankh Madhav: Nestled near Chhatnagghat, east of Sangam, this Aryan-style temple features an idol of Shri Madhav Ji and is home to Maharshi Sadafaldev’s ashram.
- Shri Chakra Madhav: Located in the Agneya (Agni) direction at Chak Beniram, this temple was built about fifty years ago and remains a significant spiritual site.
- Shri Adi Madhav: A model of traditional Aryan architecture, Shri Adi Madhav’s temple is located near Arail Ghat, next to Shri Rameshwar Mahadev.
- Shri Gada Madhav: In the vicinity of Chheoki Junction, this newly constructed temple holds the holy feet relics of Shri Gada Madhav Ji.
- Shri Padma Madhav: Situated on an island in the Yamuna, Shri Padma Madhav’s temple can only be accessed by boat. The site is also home to a Shiva temple called Sujavan Dev.
- Shri Manohar Madhav: Located at Kamla Nehru Marg, this temple is said to be the abode of Shri Manohar Madhav Ji, worshipped by Kuberji himself.
- Shri Bindu Madhav: The idol of Shri Bindu Madhav Ji resides in Draupadi Ji temple located in the cantonment area.
- Shri Veni Madhav: A well-known temple located in Daraganj, this two-storey structure is one of the most famous Madhav temples in Prayagraj.
- Shri Anant Madhav: Situated in Devagirva, 4 km from Khuldabad, this temple is located in an army cantonment area.
Akshayavata and Patalpuri Mandir
The Akshayavata tree, whose branches are said to have endured the pralay (cosmic dissolution), is located in the Patalpuri Mandir at the Prayagraj Fort. This ancient tree is one of the most sacred symbols of eternal life.
Padila Mahadeo ji
Located 15 km from Prayagraj, Padila Mahadeo is an ancient Shiva temple that draws pilgrims, especially during the Shravan month. According to tradition, the Pandavas established a Shivalingam here during their Agyatvas (exile).
Shaktipeeth of Prayagraj
- Maa Lalita Devi: Situated at Meerapur, this temple is part of the 51 Shaktipeethas where Goddess Sati’s body parts are believed to have fallen.
- Kalyani Devi: About 1500 years old, this temple holds a 32-finger-length idol of Maa Kalyani Devi, established by Maharshi Yagya Valka.
- Alopshankari Devi: Located in Alopibagh, this temple is where the fingers of Goddess Sati are said to have fallen. The swing and kund inside the temple are major points of devotion.
Other Big Temples
- Bara Sthan of Tulsi Das Ji: A historical place in Daraganj dedicated to Tulsi Das Ji, who is believed to have meditated here.
- Bade Hanuman Ji: This temple near Triveni Bandh features a unique idol of Hanuman Ji with his feet in a sacred position.
- Shankar Viman Mandapam: A stunning South Indian-style temple constructed by the Kanchi Kam Koti Peetham, with over 300 idols, including a Sahastra Mukhi Shivling.
- Mankameshwar Mandir: Located in the Prayagraj fort, this temple opens only during the Magh month and houses multiple deities, including Shiva and Ganesha.
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