Bihar is a state where the confluence of religion and history can be seen at every step. Be it Buddhism, Jainism or Sanatan Dharma, all have deep roots in the soil of Bihar. If you are planning a religious trip to Bihar, then you must know about the most ancient and proven temples there.
Here is complete information about some of the most famous temples of Bihar and the ‘oldest temple’ there.
Oldest temple of Bihar: Maa Mundeshwari Devi Temple
When it comes to the oldest temple of Bihar (and in many ways of India),Kaimur districtsituated on the hills of ‘Mundeshwari Devi Temple’The name comes at the top. This temple is not only a center of faith, but according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), it is one of the oldest ‘functional’ temples in India.
History and Features:
- age:According to the Archaeological Department, this temple108 AD (108 AD)Made around. That means it is about 2000 years old.
- Unique Architecture:This temple is built in octagonal shape, which is a very rare and old example of Indian temple building style (Nagar style).
- Deity:here mainly Mother Shakti (Mundeshwari)Andlord shivaIs worshipped. There is also a four-faced Shivalinga in the sanctum sanctorum, whose color appears to change with the sunlight.
The biggest miracle here: ‘Bloodless Sacrifice’
There is a very unique tradition of sacrificing goat in this temple. Here ‘sacrifice’ is given, but no living being’s life is taken. Devotees bring the goat in front of the goddess, the priest throws rice (akshat) and flowers on it after reciting mantras. Surprisingly the goat becomes unconscious or numb right there. After some time, when the mantra is recited again and Akshat is inserted, the goat stands up and is released. Not even a drop of blood falls here. People come from far and wide to see this miracle.
Other Famous Temples of Bihar (Where You Must Visit)
Apart from Mundeshwari Devi, there are many temples in Bihar which have great historical and religious importance:
1. Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya
This world famous Buddhist temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Importance:This is where the sacred bodhi treeBelow which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
- History:It is believed that the first temple here was built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The existing structure is believed to be from the Gupta period (5th-6th century) and is one of the oldest temples made of bricks. The peace here will captivate your mind.
2. Vishnupad Temple, Gaya
Located on the banks of river Falgu in Gaya, the city of salvation, this temple is very important for Hindus, especially for Pind Daan.
- History:On the black stone inside the temple Footprints of Lord Vishnuare present, which are about 40 centimeters long.
- Legend:It is believed that Lord Vishnu had killed the demon Gayasur here by placing his foot on his chest. The present temple was built in 1787 by the Maharani of Indore.Ahilyabai HolkarHad it done.
3. Patan Devi Temple, Patna
The city of Patna is named after this goddess. It is considered one of the 51 Shaktipeeths. The idols of three forms of Mother Goddess – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati – are installed here.
4. Sun Temple, Dev (Aurangabad)
This temple of Sun God in Bihar, famous for Chhath Puja, is very special.
- USP:Most of the Sun temples in India are east facing, but the Sun Temple of DevaWest facingIs. Its architecture is very similar to the Sun Temple of Konark and it is also considered to be of Treta Yuga.
5. Jal Mandir, Pawapuri
This is a very sacred place for the followers of Jainism. This white marble temple is built in the middle of a big pond in Pawapuri, near Nalanda.
- Importance:It was here that Lord Mahavir attained Nirvana (salvation).
6. Janaki Temple, Sitamarhi/Punauradham
Sitamarhi is considered to be the birthplace of Mother Sita. The Janaki temple at Punauradham is a major part of the Ramayana circuit. It is believed that when King Janak plowed, it was from here that the earth burst and Mother Sita appeared.
So if you want to feel the history and spirituality closely, then visit these temples of Bihar, especially Mundeshwari Devi TempleMake a plan to visit. Seeing the ancient walls and the amazing ‘non-violent sacrifice’ there will be a different experience.
North India Statesman