Shyama Mai Temple: A Unique Shrine Built on a Royal Pyre

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Narendra Jijhontiya

Shyama Mai Temple: A Unique Shrine Built on a Royal Pyre

Darbhanga, March 5: In India, often referred to as the ‘land of temples,’ countless shrines dedicated to various deities can be found. One such notable temple is the Shyama Mai Temple, located in Darbhanga, Bihar, dedicated to Goddess Kali.

The Shyama Mai Temple is among the prominent temples in Bihar, built on the pyre of Maharaja Rameshwar Singh, situated within the cremation grounds of the Darbhanga royal family. This temple is also known as Rameshwari Shyama Mai.

Established in 1933 by Maharaja Kameshwar Singh, the temple is renowned for its striking red architecture and unique identity, surrounded by lush trees and ponds. Inside the sanctum, a grand idol of Goddess Kali is enshrined, positioned above Lord Shiva.

A distinctive feature of this temple is the worship of Goddess Kali, conducted through both Vedic and Tantric rituals. Devotees from far and wide visit to seek blessings and fulfill their wishes. It is believed that Maharaja Rameshwar Singh was a great ascetic, which is why the temple was constructed on his pyre.

In Hindu tradition, cremation grounds are generally avoided for auspicious events like weddings. However, the Shyama Mai Temple is unique, as it attracts people for significant ceremonies such as mundan (head shaving), upanayana (sacred thread ceremony), and weddings.

Inside the sanctum, a massive idol of Goddess Kali is placed to the right of Mahakal and Ganapati. This idol has four arms, with the right hand always blessing the devotees who come to seek her grace.

The daily aarti (worship ceremony) at the temple holds special significance, with devotees often waiting for hours to participate. It is said that the idol of Goddess Kali was brought from Paris. According to belief, seeing the feet of Shyama Mai Kali fulfills the wishes of the devotees.

The Shyama Mai Temple is always bustling with activity. During Navratri, the atmosphere becomes truly magical, with the heavy influx of devotees echoing the chants of “Jai Shyama Mai” throughout the premises.

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