Sacred Bhairav Parvat – Ujjain’s Shakti Peeth

Have you ever wondered about the sacred Bhairav Parvat in Ujjain, known as Shakti Peeth? This hill, nestled on the banks of the Shipra River, holds a special significance. Locals also call it Gadkalika Temple.  Legend has it that the elbow of Ma Sati, after being cut into fifty-two pieces by Lord Shiva’s Sudarshan Chakra, fell right here. The temple’s unique architecture, adorned with colourful stones, adds to its charm. Come, let’s explore the divine Shakti Peeth in Ujjain together!

What is a Shakti Peeth?

A Shakti Peeth refers to a holy site that is connected with the Hindu deity Shakti, also known as Devi. In ancient mythology these peeths are believed to be the places where her body fragments landed after she immolated herself. Every shakthipeeth is dedicated to one specific part of her body like hair or eyes or limbs. People visit these sites for blessings and spiritual connection with feminine divinity.

Bhairav Parvat Shakti Peeth in Ujjain

Location and Significance

Bhairav Parvat Shakti Peeth is located on Bhairav Hills along Shipra River in Ujjain, MP but popularly known as Gadkalika Temple among locals. In addition, Ujjain, one of the Seven Sacred Cities (Sapta-puri), holds important spiritual significance.

Unique Architecture

The temple stands out architecturally due to its colourful stone usage. The temple has been designed using diverse colours of stone which have been artistically used on temple walls and roof tops making it visually appealing.

Devi Avanti and Her Red Sari

The temple houses Devi Avanti also called Ma Avantika or MahaKali within it. A married woman wearing a red sari signifies a holy symbol. This bright red colour represents devotion and divine energy.

Legends and Protection

According to one legend, when Ma Sati’s burnt body was being chopped by Shiva’s Sudarshan Chakra, her elbow landed on Bhairav Hills. Devi Avanti is worshipped by people here and she is protected by the Bhairav Lambakarna. Some debatable point of whether it was her upper lips or elbow which fell at this holy place.

Temple Festivals

Once every twelve years Ujjain hosts the famous Kumbh Mela festival. There are specific temple festivals such as Navratri and MahaShivratri celebrated with special rituals and offerings. The daily aratis start from 6 am (Prabhat arati) & 6 pm (Sandhyaarati).

Accessibility

Ujjain is well linked with cities of India. Indore Airport, which is approximately 52 km away, remains the closest airport to Ujjain. Besides, Ujjain has some remarkable temples such as Mahakaleshwar Temple, Vikrant Bhaivav Temple and Mangalnath Temple which has a unique ShivLinga made from Dhatu Nirmita.

Best Time to Visit Shakti Peeth in Ujjain

The best time to visit the Shakthi Peeth in Ujjain would be during the Navratri festival. It usually takes place in September or October; a religious festival where devotees come together every year to pay homage to Goddess Shakti for her blessing. This temple atmosphere is energized with special ceremonies being performed. You should check the exact dates for Navratri each year before planning your trip accordingly Navratri Rituals at the Shakti Peeth in Ujjain

Religious Fasting

Fasting has been a common feature during Navratri. People avoid some food items and take simple, sattvic meals. The fast is meant to cleanse the body and soul in order to make a deeper connection with Goddess Shakti.

Singing Devotional Songs

Devotees sing bhajans, aartis and mantras for Goddess Durga. These sweet-sounding songs fill the air with spiritualism and bring about positive energy.

Traditional Dances: Garba and Dandiya

Garba dance and dandiya are dynamic folk dances performed during this festival. People form circles and dance rhythmically with sticks to celebrate divine feminine power.

Lighting Lamps and Diyas

Temple premises are lit up with burning diyas (oil lamps). Flickering lights of these oil lamps symbolize victory of light over darkness.

Special Aartis and Pujas

Aartis are held daily, especially in the evenings. Pujas are performed by devotees who offer flowers, incense sticks, fruits, etc to the goddess.

How to Reach Shakti Peeth in Ujjain

By Road

• Travel to Indore which is the capital city of Madhya Pradesh.
• From there, you can find local vehicles going towards Ujjain.
• Ujjain is well connected by road network from different parts of India so one can come by any mode of conveyance.

By Air

• Nearest airport is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar International Airport Indore (about 60 kms away).
• There are few domestic flights that operate from major cities till Indore.

Bottom Line

The sacred Bhairav Parvat houses Shakti Peeth in Ujjain which holds great religious importance. It is famous for its unique construction style as well as its association with Ma Sati, drawing many followers. Visiting the Shakti Peeth in Ujjain offers a profound connection to the divine feminine energy and a glimpse into rich cultural traditions.