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Chhattisgarh

Danteshwari Temple

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January

7.1 - 31.6 °C

February

10.0 - 34.7 °C

March

14.2 - 38.3 °C

April

18.5 - 40.0 °C

May

20.0 - 41.7 °C

June

21.0 - 39.9 °C

July

21.1 - 33.7 °C

August

20.9 - 32.2 °C

September

20.5 - 33.1 °C

October

15.7 - 33.0 °C

November

10.5 - 32.0 °C

December

7.4 - 30.8 °C


Major Airports :

Maa Danteshwari Airport (JGB), Jagdalpur

Nearest Railway Station :

Jagdalpur Railway Station (JDB)

Major Airports :

Maa Danteshwari Airport (JGB), Jagdalpur

Unveiling the enigmatic Danteshwari Temple in Jagdalpur

In the tranquil town of Dantewada in Jagdalpur, there is a 600-year old temple known as Danteshwari Temple which has profound spiritual significance. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, shrines of Shakti, the divine feminine, spread across India. According to ancient legend, Goddess Sati self-immolated in the yagna kund fire after her father, Daksha, insulted her husband, Lord Shiva, during a yagna. Enraged by Sati's death, Shiva destroyed Daksha's yagna and carrying Sati's body, began to perform the Tandav dance. To relieve Shiva of his grief, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Sati's body into pieces. These pieces fell in fifty-one different places, which are known as the Shakti Peethas. Some legends claim there are 108 pieces. According to legend, the temple is situated where the Dant (tooth) of Sati fell and the Goddess presides here as Danteshwari. The town Dantewada also gets its name from here.

The temple is situated at the confluence of the holy rivers Shankini and Dhankini. You will be amazed to see that both the rivers have different colours giving the confluence a unique look. The Danteshwari Temple’s rich heritage, combined with its architectural beauty and lush green surroundings, makes it a cherished destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

A legacy in stone

When you will enter the temple, it will be like entering into the past. This temple dates back to the 14th century, built by the rulers of the Kakatiya dynasty, who were fervent worshippers of Goddess Danteshwari. According to various Bastar history books, Prataparudradev was born into the Kakatiya dynasty of Warangal and is mentioned as a cousin of Annamdev. In the 13th century, Prataparudradev became the successor of the Kakatiya dynasty. During the third Mughal attack on Warangal, Prataparudradev was captured and taken to Delhi. Meanwhile, Annamdev marched towards Bastar, where he defeated the Nagvansh and established the Kakatiya dynasty. Initially, King Annamdev made Mandhota the capital, later changing it to Jagdalpur. It is believed that Annamdev had built this temple.

Come and explore the spiritual heritage

You will be surprised by the modest façade of the temple built in wooden hut style. Opposite to the temple entrance, an ancient Garud pillar, made in stone, stands tall. The temple is divided into four sections: Garbh Griha, Maha Mandap, Mukhya Mandap and Sabha Mandap. Both the Garbh Griha and Maha Mandap are constructed from stone pieces. Inside the temple, you will be greeted by the sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Goddess Danteshwari resides, guarded by idols of two celestial beings at the door. The idol of the goddess, made of black stone, is exquisitely decorated with flowers of different colours, ornaments and traditional attire. The inner walls are adorned with detailed carvings. After taking blessings from Devi, you may pay reverence at other smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, each with its own unique features and significance. All the idols are carved in black stone. It is believed that pilgrimage to Devi temple is not complete without visiting Bhairon temple. So do take darshan of Bhairon Baba whose temple is a few steps away.


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Be a part of the festivities

The Danteshwari Temple is at its festive best during the annual Dussehra celebrations. Unlike the more commonly known celebrations in other parts of India, the Dussehra in Dantewada is a month-long festival. If you plan your visit during this time you may witness colourful processions, traditional dances, and cultural performances. Each year during Dussehra, thousands of tribals from nearby villages and forests converge at the temple to honour the goddess. The idol is ceremoniously moved from the Temple and taken through the city in a grand procession, now a well-known tourist attraction and a highlight of the ‘Bastar Dussehra’ festival. Additionally, there is a tradition of lighting Jyoti Kalashas during Navaratri, adding to the temple's lively celebrations. Devotees from far and wide flock to the temple to partake in the festivities and seek the blessings of the goddess. Other notable festivals include Chaitra Navratri, Phagun mela (March-April) and Diwali, each celebrated with great zeal and devotion.

Seek blessings and start your journey inwards

The Danteshwari Temple in Dantewada is not just a place of worship; it is a journey into the spiritual and cultural essence of Chhattisgarh. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a curious traveller, the temple offers a unique experience that is both enriching and enlightening. Plan your visit to this sacred site and immerse yourself in its divine aura and historical grandeur. Explore the vibrant festivals, admire the architectural beauty, and feel the spiritual energy that makes Danteshwari Temple a must-visit destination.

Embark on this spiritual journey and discover the divine splendour of Danteshwari Temple—an experience that will stay with you long after you leave its sacred grounds.

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