In Kurukshetra, a place famously known as the battlefield between the Pandavas and Kauravas, stands the temple of Goddess Bhadrakali. This shrine, also known as a Bhadrakali Shaktipeeth, is believed to have been in existence since ancient ages. The tonsure ceremony of Shri Krishna and Balram is believed to have been performed here. Legends describe that before the battle of Kurukshetra, Lord Krishna and the Pandavas worshipped here for their victory. After defeating the Kuravas they are said to have offered their horses in the service of the Goddess.

location Haryana, Kurukshetra, Chandigarh

Legend

The temple is considered a Shaktipeetha. When Lord Shiva's wrath at the death of his wife Sati manifested as the Tandava which would destroy the Universe, Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan chakra cut her corpse into pieces which scattered around the subcontinent. These places where her body parts fell are today considered the sacred Shaktipeethas. It is here, at Bhadrakali temple that the ankle of the Devi is believed to have fallen.

Architecture

The temple has three pyramid shikharas, one taller than the other two. Inside the main door, there is a central well area where a huge lotus stands. On the lotus is the image of the right ankle of the Goddess, signifying its importance as a Shaktipeetha. Across this is the main shrine, housing the idol of Ma Kali. Along the parikarma path there are idols of other Gods and Goddesses. Just right to the main temple room is the open hall created for satsang/ kirtans. On the first floor there are more idols including a Shivlingam.

Culture

Kurukshetra also known as Dharmakshetra is considered a holy place. The importance of the place is because of the Kurukshetra War of the Mahabharata being fought on this land. It was here that Lord Krishna preached the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. Kurukshetra banned the sale, possession and consumption of meat within its limits due to the religious significance of the place.

Pic Courtesy : 3marg.info

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire

Famous Festival

March - Navratras, Shobhayatra

August - Raksha Bandhan

October - Navratri

Temple Rituals

The priests perform regular puja and rituals. There is a mandir Aarti at 5:15 AM and at 7:15 PM

Special Rituals

1st Saturday of every month devotees perform Hawan yagya to the deity. On Rakhsa Bandhan day, the devotees tie Rakhi to Maa Bhadrakali and pray for their protection.

Additional Info

 

Aman Palace

 

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