Katni, October 11 (Daily Kiran) : The Ma Jalpa Devi Temple, located in the heart of Katni, Madhya Pradesh, has long been a significant center of faith for devotees. With the onset of Navratri, the temple saw a massive influx of visitors on the first day of the festival.
Priest Lalji Panda shared that the temple is nearly 200 years old and houses the idol of Ma Jalpa Devi. He noted, “This area was once dense forest, but in recent years, it has expanded significantly, leading to ongoing construction at the temple.”
As the Navratri festival commenced, people from Katni and surrounding areas flocked to the temple for blessings. Nikhil, a visitor, remarked that the temple features a total of 64 yoginis, including Ma Jalpa, Ma Kalka, and Ma Sharda. He expressed the vibrant atmosphere during the evening aarti, saying it is a truly uplifting experience.
Kashish Verma shared her excitement about visiting the temple for the first time, stating, “My parents have been coming here regularly. It feels wonderful.”
Legend has it that Ma Jalpa Devi manifested herself as a stone at this site, which was once surrounded by thick bamboo forests. Today, the grand temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during Navratri, as families come to pay their respects and make wishes.
Local elders recount that about 250 years ago, a man named Bihari Lal Panda arrived in Katni from a small village in Rewa district, guided by Ma Jalpa Devi. Upon clearing the forest where the temple now stands, he discovered the idol of Ma Jalpa. Following rituals, the idol was consecrated and placed in a small shrine.
Over time, faith in the temple grew, transforming it into a major pilgrimage site. Approximately 50 years ago, the temple committee brought idols of Ma Jalpa, Ma Kalka, and Ma Sharda from Jaipur, along with the establishment of the 64 yoginis. Today, devotees visit not only during Navratri but throughout the year, seeking blessings for prosperity and happiness.
In addition to the idols of Ma Jalpa, Ma Kali, Ma Sharda, and Bhairav Baba, the temple complex also features the 64 yoginis. An eternal flame has burned at the site for years, and it is renowned for fulfilling devotees’ wishes, particularly those related to marriage.
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