Located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Chandrakut mountain houses a Shakti Peeth brimming with mysteries and miracles: the Chandrabadani Temple. Situated approximately 2277 meters above sea level, this temple is considered one of the significant Shakti Peethas dedicated to Goddess Sati. Uniquely, instead of a deity statue, the temple worships a Shri Yantra.
The Creation of Chandrabadani Shakti Peeth
According to mythological beliefs and the Skanda Purana, Goddess Sati, distraught by the insult inflicted upon her by her father Daksha, immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. Lord Shiva, carrying Sati's body, wandered through the heavens. Lord Vishnu then intervened, using his Sudarshan Chakra to sever Sati's body into pieces.
Shakti Peethas were established wherever these body parts fell. Chandrabadani Shakti Peeth is located where Sati's waist (kati bhaag) is believed to have landed. This is the origin of the temple's name.
Worship of the Shri Yantra, Not a Deity
The temple's most striking feature is the absence of a Goddess statue. The sanctum sanctorum houses a divine Shri Yantra. It is considered so sacred and powerful that even the priests performing the puja (worship) blindfold themselves. Legend holds that the Yantra's radiance is so intense that it is forbidden to look at it with open eyes.
Local beliefs suggest that a deity statue also exists within the sanctum sanctorum, but viewing it is strictly prohibited. It is said that anyone attempting to see it will be struck blind. The temple priests, Bhatt and Semaltee Brahmins, have maintained this sacred duty for generations.
Mysterious Nights: The Miracle of Apsaras' Dance
Another prevalent belief surrounding Chandrabadani Temple is that Apsaras (celestial nymphs) and Gandharvas (celestial musicians) dance there at night. Locals believe that the sounds of dhol-damaus (traditional instruments) heard at night signify the Gandharvas and Apsaras performing their divine service to the Goddess. It is said that ascetics who practice austerities with fasting in this temple attain extraordinary spiritual powers. Devotees believe that the blessings of Mata Chandrabadani alleviate suffering and fulfill wishes.
Special events are held at Chandrabadani Temple during Navratri. Devotees from far and wide visit to pay their respects and offer prayers. The nine days are dedicated to worshipping various forms of the Goddess. Devotees believe that the Goddess's blessings are especially potent during Navratri.
The Miraculous Influence of the Siddhapeeth
Mata Chandrabadani's temple is not just a religious site but also a miraculous Shakti Peeth. It is believed that merely witnessing the Goddess's presence alleviates suffering. Devotees whose wishes are fulfilled perform special pujas and offerings here. Visitors often recount experiencing a unique energy in the temple complex at night. Many have even claimed to witness the Apsaras' dance.
The worship of the Goddess's Shri Yantra and the belief in the Apsaras' dance at Chandrabadani Temple are not merely symbols of religious faith; the location is considered a center of spiritual energy. Devotees believe the Goddess herself makes her presence felt.
