This Shakti Peeth is related to many unprecedented special mythological events. Let us introduce you to all these features.
Dunagiri is a historical place, famous for its temple of Shakti, known as Dunagiri Mata Temple. According to the local tradition, this region has witnessed many Indian sages of different times who have gone on to establish their ‘ashrams’ amidst nature. The guru of the Pandavas, Dronacharya- is also said to have done ‘tapasya’ at Dunagiri. This great ‘Shaktipeeth’ has been influenced time and again by Vaishnav, Shaiva, and Shakti Devotees.
The Dunagiri Temple is famous for several reasons, including:
Religious Significance – Temple is one of the most sacred and an important place of worship for Hindus. It is believed to be the location where Goddess Durga appeared in the form of Mahishasura-Mardini.
Historical Significance – The temple has been in presence for many years, and being quite possibly one of the most established temples in the region.
Scenic Location – The temple is situated amidst the magnificent and tranquil Himalayan region, embraced by awe-inspiring natural beauty, which attracts a large number of visitors.
Cultural Significance – The temple holds great cultural significance and serves as the epicenter for numerous traditional celebrations and festivals deeply rooted in the local culture.
Food and Accommodation – The Temple committee oversees the Bhandaras, which wholeheartedly welcome guests, providing them with food and comfort for everyone. This communal dining experience exemplifies the essence of sharing and unity, where individuals from diverse backgrounds gather to share in a complimentary meal.
Navratri Celebration – The Dunagiri Mata Temple celebrates Navratri Festival, drawing devotees who seek to worship the Goddess. People from various corners come together at this sacred sanctuary to pay homage to the divine feminine energy during the nine nights of Navratri. This convergence of faiths and practices solidifies the Dunagiri Mata Temple as a renowned destination, uniting individuals regardless of their beliefs, to commemorate Indian heritage, traditions, and history. It is a period of deep devotion and a celebration of the victory of virtue over malevolence, rendering it a truly captivating and spiritually enriching occasion.
Katyuri Ruler Dharmadev Re-established the temple
Dunagiri Mata sanctuary underwent restoration in 1318, under the patronage of Katyuri ruler Dharmadev. He introduced an idol of Durga and constructed temples for Lord Hanuman, Shri Ganesh, and Bhairav Ji before the main sanctuary. According to the Himalaya Gazetteer and ET Edkikshan, inscriptions from that era suggest the temple may date back to 1181. The sanctuary is revered as a Shakti-Peeth, which are sacred sites associated with the goddesses of power and energy in Hinduism. The Dronagiri Vaishnavi Shakti Peeth is considered one of the foremost Shakti Peethas in the region, second only to Vaishno Devi. Additionally, the temple houses idols of Shiva and Parvati within its premises.
Ramayana Connection
The Dunagiri sanctuary in Uttarakhand is linked to the ancient Ramayana tale. During the battle between Lord Rama and demon king Ravana, Laxman, Rama’s brother, was injured. Sage Sushena advised Hanuman to fetch the medicinal herb ‘Sanjeevani Booti’ from the mountain Dronachal. Hanuman brought the whole mountain to save Laxshmana, but a piece fell, forming Dunagiri sanctuary. This unique temple location, rich in medicinal herbs, has several factors explaining their coexistence. It’s revered as a principal Shakti Peetha, drawing visitors seeking blessings and healing herbs.
According to Mahabharata
In Uttarakhand’s enchanting realm, lies the mystical Dunagiri Mata Temple, steeped in Mahabharata’s legendary tales. The Pandavas, during their exile, sought refuge here, finding solace in nearby Pandukholi. Guru Dronacharya too sought wisdom at this spot. Draupadi, in her quest to safeguard honor, worshipped Durga here. These legends have made Dunagiri Mata Temple a revered pilgrimage site, drawing devotees seeking spiritual significance and divine energy. It’s a place where history and mythology merge, offering seekers a sacred haven for spirituality and understanding.
Mahavtar Baba JI
Mahavatar Babaji is a spiritual figure said to have been encountered by many sages in the Dronagiri mountain range. The cave where Babaji is said to reside is considered one of the most spiritual caves in the Himalayan region. It is believed to be the origin of Kriya yoga, a spiritual practice that emphasizes the control of breath and energy.
Yoga Guru Lahiri Mahasaya is said to have received teachings of Kriya yoga directly from Mahavatar Babaji in this cave. The first reported encounter with Babaji was in 1861 by Shyamacharan Lahiri, who was an accountant for the British government posted in Ranikhet. Lahiri was said to have heard a voice calling his name while he was walking in the hills of Dunagiri above Ranikhet, and followed the voice to meet a divinely radiant sadhu who knew his name, Babaji.
Visited by Many Sages
The Dunagiri mountain range has a rich history of attracting revered sages, known as munis, to its tranquil embrace in India. These holy men established ashrams in this picturesque region, creating spiritual havens where they could live and meditate amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature.
One notable sage who graced Dunagiri with his presence was Garga Muni, and it’s believed that the river Gagas was named after him, serving as a testament to his spiritual legacy. Additionally, the renowned sage Shukdev Muni, the son of sage Ved Vyasa, chose this sacred land as the location for his ashram, now known as “Shukdevi.”
These ashrams held deep spiritual significance, drawing in countless seekers who sought the sage’s guidance and wisdom. The Dronagiri mountain range, with its harmonious blend of natural beauty and spiritual heritage, continues to inspire and uplift those who venture here in search of enlightenment and serenity.