Uttarakhand, known as Devbhoomi (Land of Gods), is home to numerous ancient and sacred temples. One such divine site is the Indrasani Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Indrasani. This temple, highly revered by the people of Kandali Village and Silgarh Region, is an important religious and spiritual destination in Uttarakhand.
Indrasani Devi Temple
Situated amidst picturesque mountains and lush greenery, Indrasani Devi Temple is located just 14 km from Rudraprayag city and 6 km from Tilwara. The temple is surrounded by the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers, adding to its divine aura.
This temple serves as a major faith center for more than 100 villages of Silgarh and Talla Nagpur regions. A grand religious event, the Mahayagya, is organized here every 12 years. This festival concludes after the Devara Yatra (a ceremonial journey of the Goddess around the region), following which the deity returns to the original temple site. During this time, the Goddess also takes a royal bath at Surya Prayag, near Tilwara.
Mythological and Historical Significance of Indrasani Devi Temple
The temple is believed to have been constructed during the era of Adi Shankaracharya and is renowned for its unique and intricate architecture. Several other sacred sites surround it, including temples of Jalkedreshwar, Kshetrapal, and Jakh Devta, further enhancing its religious significance.
Indrasani Devi in Hindu Scriptures
The Skanda Purana, Devi Bhagavat, and Kedar Khand contain extensive references to Goddess Indrasani. According to legend, she was the mind-born daughter of Sage Kashyapa. She is also worshiped as Manasa Devi, Vaishnavi, Shiva, and Vishahari Devi.
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Indrasani Devi: The Goddess of Snakebite Protection
A fascinating folklore about Goddess Indrasani states that she has the divine power to cure snakebites and other venomous afflictions. Due to this belief, thousands of devotees visit this temple every year, seeking protection and blessings from the goddess.
Could This Region Replace Kedarnath in the Future?
According to the Kedar Khand of Skanda Purana, if Kedarnath Dham ever becomes inaccessible to pilgrims, the Jalkedreshwar Mahalinga, situated near Indrasani Devi Temple, will be worshiped as the future Kedarnath. This prophecy further elevates the spiritual importance of this temple.
How to Reach Indrasani Devi Temple?
The Indrasani Devi Temple is located on the banks of the Mandakini River, approximately 6 km from Tilwara and 14 km from Rudraprayag.
Travel Route:
- By Road: Travel via Rishikesh – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Tilwara route. From Tilwara, visitors must cross the Mandakini River and either walk down the stairs or take a shared taxi to Kandali Village.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station, about 160 km from Rudraprayag.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, approximately 175 km away.
Indrasani Devi Temple: A Symbol of Faith and Uttarakhand’s Rich Cultural Heritage
The Indrasani Devi Temple is not just a place of worship but also a significant spiritual and cultural heritage site in Uttarakhand. Its historical legends, divine aura, and breathtaking natural surroundings make it one of the most revered temples in Uttarakhand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Indrasani Devi Temple
1. Where is Indrasani Devi Temple located?
Indrasani Devi Temple is located 14 km from Rudraprayag and 6 km from Tilwara in Uttarakhand. It is situated near the confluence of the Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers.
2. What is the significance of Indrasani Devi Temple?
This temple is a major religious site in Uttarakhand, mentioned in the Skanda Purana, Devi Bhagavat, and Kedar Khand. Goddess Indrasani is believed to have divine powers to cure snakebites and remove the effects of venom.
3. How to reach Indrasani Devi Temple?
- By road, travel to Tilwara from Rudraprayag and take a shared taxi to Kandali Village.
- By train, the nearest railway station is Rishikesh (160 km away).
- By air, the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (175 km away).
4. Is there any special festival celebrated at Indrasani Devi Temple?
Yes, every 12 years, a grand Mahayagya is conducted after the Devara Yatra (procession of the Goddess). The event concludes with a royal bath at Surya Prayag.
5. Can Indrasani Devi Temple replace Kedarnath in the future?
As per the Kedar Khand of Skanda Purana, if Kedarnath Dham becomes inaccessible, Jalkedreshwar Mahalinga, located near Indrasani Devi Temple, will be worshiped as the future Kedarnath.
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