New Delhi, April 6: The city of Kashi, known for its rich spiritual heritage, is home to numerous ancient temples, each with its unique charm and miraculous stories. Among these sacred sites is the remarkable temple dedicated to Maa Mahishasur Mardini, where the idol of Maa Swapneshwari is said to change form three times a day.
Located in the Bhadravan area, this temple is revered by devotees who worship Maa Swapneshwari. According to the temple priest, Dhananjay Pandey, this form of the goddess is described in the fourth chapter of Durga Saptashati, where she vanquished the demon Mahishasur. The idol is self-manifested and is known for fulfilling the wishes of its devotees.
Priests explain that the goddess’s appearance transforms throughout the day. In the morning, she appears in a gentle child form, transitioning to a youthful form at noon, and revealing a fierce aspect by evening. Devotees are often mesmerized by this miraculous change. Offerings to Maa Swapneshwari include malpua, dahi-barfi, and coconut, with special significance given to red hibiscus garlands and adornments.
It is believed that devotees who participate in the aarti for 41 consecutive days will have their wishes granted. Another intriguing belief associated with this temple is that those who spend the night in worship will receive guidance from the goddess in their dreams, which is why she is referred to as Swapneshwari.
In this unique temple, Maa Mahishasur Mardini is not only worshipped as the slayer of the demon Mahishasur but also as a guiding mother who appears in the dreams of her devotees. Many believe that visiting this temple fulfills all their desires.
The temple complex also houses smaller shrines dedicated to Bhairav Baba, Bholenath, Hanuman Ji, and Lord Ganesha. During Navratri, the temple sees a significant influx of visitors, with women singing devotional songs and reciting the Durga Saptashati. On the ninth day, a grand feast is organized, and prasad is distributed among devotees.
Devotee Prabhnath Tripathi shares that Maa Mahishasur Mardini is compassionate, and just a glimpse of her brings peace and strength to her followers. He emphasizes that the goddess’s presence has been a blessing for many, and those who worship her day and night often receive insights about their wishes in their dreams.
Rakesh Tripathi, vice president of the temple service committee, notes that while the temple attracts a steady stream of devotees year-round, the atmosphere during Navratri is especially vibrant and filled with devotion. This ancient temple is located about 5 kilometers from Varanasi Cantt Railway Station in the Lolark Kund area, with easy access via auto, rickshaw, or cab.
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