Introduction
Patan Devi Mandir, also known as Maa Patneshwari Temple, is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Patna, Bihar. The temple stands as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, sacred pilgrimage sites dedicated to Goddess Shakti, the divine feminine force revered across India and neighboring countries for her power and spiritual energy. This temple holds immense religious, cultural, and historic importance in Bihar and Assam. It attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year.
Historical Background of Patan Devi Mandir
According to legend, this place is where the right thigh of Goddess Sati fell. This occurred when Lord Shiva was carrying her charred body after her self-immolation. Various parts of Sati’s body became sacred centers of power and worship here.
This city later evolved into modern-day Patna.
The complex consists of two main temples – Bari Patan Devi and Chhoti Patan Devi – both housing significant idols and sacred relics.
Architectural Features of Patan Devi Temple
The Patan Devi Mandir showcases ancient architectural styles distinctive to the Magadh region. It contains intricate stone carvings, tall shikharas, and a sanctum sanctorum that houses the idols of three powerful goddesses – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati.
An important element within the temple is the presence of Vyom Bhairav, a form of Lord Shiva. The temple also features a large havan kund (fire pit) where worshippers offer sindoor (vermillion), flowers, and other offerings.
Significance of Patan Devi Temple
Patan Devi Temple is not only a spiritual hub but also a symbol of feminine divine energy. It protects the city of Patna. The temple’s association with Goddess Durga and her fierce forms like Kali and Saraswati makes it a powerful Shakti Peetha.
Devotees believe that praying here can grant wishes related to health, prosperity, and happiness. Especially during festivals like Navaratri and Durga Puja, the temple attracts a vast number of pilgrims. They seek the blessings of Maa Patan Devi.
Festivals and Special Days
- Navaratri and Durga Puja: The temple comes alive with vibrant celebrations during these festivals. Special prayers, rituals, and cultural events take place.
- Tuesday: Considered especially auspicious for worship at Patan Devi Temple, drawing large crowds.
- Chhoti Patan Devi Festival: The smaller temple also has its own rituals and festive gatherings that maintain local significance.
Temple Timings and Visit Information
The Patan Devi Mandir opens daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. There is no entry fee, devotees arrive early during festival seasons to avoid crowds.
The temple is accessible by road and is located near the Patna Railway Junction. This makes it convenient for pilgrims traveling from around Bihar and neighboring states.
How to Reach Patan Devi Mandir
The temple is situated in the heart of the city, and local transport like autos, taxis, and buses are available for easy access. For outstation visitors, Patna Airport and the Patna Junction railway station provide direct connectivity.
Devotees’ Experiences and Testimonials
Many devotees share transformative experiences after visiting Patan Devi. They claim relief from ailments, success in ventures, and blessings for married life and family welfare.
Legends and Mythology of Patan Devi Mandir
Patan Devi Mandir is enveloped in rich mythology and divine legends. These affirm its status as a Shakti Peetha, one of the 51 sacred sites across India where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen. According to ancient Puranic texts, the temple marks the spot where the right thigh of Goddess Sati fell. This was when Lord Shiva carried her charred body after her self-immolation.
This event is central to the Shakti Peetha concept. It symbolizes the sacred feminine energy scattered across various locations. This makes each site a powerful center of divine worship. The name “Patan” is also believed to derive from the word “pata,” meaning cloth or garment, referring to the garment of Sati that also fell near this site.
Tridevi
Inside the temple complex, three black stone idols represent the Tridevi — Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati. They embody the fierce, prosperous, and wisdom aspects of the feminine divine force. These idols are seated on elaborately carved thrones. They are draped in vibrant sarees and adorned with traditional crowns, signifying their divine stature.
A prominent figure within the temple is Vyom Bhairav, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, who is regarded as the protector of the temple and the divine energy channeler. The presence of Vyom Bhairav adds to the spiritual ambiance. It provides devotees a place for deep meditation and connection with Rudra’s fierce yet benevolent aspect.
Another significant legend associated with Patan Devi Mandir narrates a fierce battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. This battle culminated in the goddess’s victorious triumph. This story is emblematic of the eternal fight between good and evil. It reinforces the temple’s importance as a beacon of divine strength and protection.
The temple’s origins are closely linked to the ancient city of Magadh and Pataliputra. Some scholars suggest that the temple might have influenced the name “Patna” itself. Historically, the temple has been a hub for devotees seeking blessings for protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
Architectural Features and Design of Patan Devi Mandir
Patan Devi Mandir, believed to have been built around the 5th century BCE during the Mauryan period, is a revered ancient temple in Patna, Bihar, divided into two main shrines—Bari Patan Devi and Chhoti Patan Devi. The temple complex features black stone idols of the goddesses Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati, standing on large stone thrones and adorned with vibrant sarees and crowns. Bari Patan Devi faces north toward the Ganges River and includes a spacious verandah with a large havan kund for ritual offerings. Chhoti Patan Devi, older and smaller, houses ancient Brahmanical images, including those of Lord Vishnu, Ganesh, and Surya, believed restored from 9th–11th-century ruins. The temple is celebrated as one of the 51 Siddha Shakti Peethas, marking the spot where the right thigh of Goddess Sati fell, and remains a major spiritual and cultural landmark in Patna.
Structure and Layout
The main temple, Bari Patan Devi, faces north towards the auspicious Ganges River, symbolizing spiritual connectivity and flow of divine energy. The temple primarily uses stone and bricks and features a rectangular design with a sloping roof topped by a small dome crowning its sanctum sanctorum.
The temple entrance features a long portico measuring approximately 1.5 feet by 15 feet, which guides devotees into the sacred interiors. Following the portico is an inner prayer room measuring roughly 8 feet by 8 feet, housing the main deities.
Deities and Idols
The sanctum sanctorum accommodates idols of three revered goddesses—the Tridevi—Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati, each carved meticulously from black stone. The goddesses stand majestically on large stone thrones (Simhasans) measuring roughly 4 square feet each and about 7 feet tall. They wear vibrant sarees, and crowns adorn their heads, symbolizing their divine stature and power.
The presence of Vyom Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, enhances the temple’s sacred aura. His idol is smaller, symbolizing protection and cosmic balance within the sacred space.
Decorative Elements
Intricate carvings adorn the temple interiors and external walls, depicting Hindu mythological motifs celebrating the feminine divine power. The temple walls narrate stories from Hindu epics including tales of Goddess Durga’s triumphs and Lord Shiva’s dance of cosmic destruction, blending art with spirituality.
A spacious verandah extends in front of the sanctum, providing a sheltered space where devotees congregate. This area includes a large havan kund (fire altar) where priests continuously burn offerings such as sindoor (vermillion), flowers, and sacred herbs in ritual fire ceremonies.
Chhoti Patan Devi Temple
Smaller but equally significant, Chhoti Patan Devi Temple stands within the old city regions of Patna. Though its architectural style is more modest, it holds rich historical significance, often associated with the earlier worship traditions of the city. The temple houses ancient Brahmanical images and relics, including representations of Lord Vishnu, Ganesh, and Surya, which locals believe were restored from the ruins of earlier temples dating back to the 9th–11th centuries.
Conclusion
Patan Devi Mandir remains an enduring symbol of divine feminine power, cultural heritage, and spiritual solace in Patna. Whether driven by faith or curiosity, pilgrims and tourists alike find the temple a place of peace, devotion, and historical wonder.