Muzaffarnagar Shukratal Temple

Address

Shukratal Temple,

Muzaffarnagar,

Uttar Pradesh – 251316.

Moolavar

Krishnan

Introduction

Sugasthal is a holy site in Muzaffarnagar district, Uttar Pradesh, situated on the banks of Goddess Ganga. It is considered a place of meditation and spiritual enlightenment. Sugasthal is the first Bhagavata Peetha where Bhagavata Saptaham is conducted throughout the year. Lakhs of Bhagavata Saptahams have been held here. When thinking of Bhagavata Saptaham, Naimisaranyam comes to mind as the place where Sūta Mahamuni narrated the Bhagavata to sages. However, Sugasthal (also called Sukarthal & Sukthal) is the sacred site where Sri Sukā Brahma narrated the Bhagavata to Parikshit Maharaja for seven days. This event is documented in the book ‘Suka Magadhmiyam’.

Puranic Significance

Sugasthal is a significant holy site both historically and spiritually. Sri Suka Brahma, son of Vyasa Bhagavan, sat under a Vada tree on the banks of the Ganges and preached the Bhagavata story to King Parikshit. The narration lasted seven days, with great sages gathered around. Due to this sacred event, the place came to be known as Sugasthal (Sukarthal or Sukthal).

Special Features

Historical Significance:

Around 5,000 years ago, in Kali Yuga, Sri Suka Brahma Maharishi recited the Bhagavatam under a banyan tree still present in the temple today.

Gathering of Sages:

During the narration to King Parikshit, approximately 80,000 sages gathered to listen.

Unique Banyan Tree:

The tree has grown to 150 feet and provides shade and peace to visitors.
- A special feature of this ancient tree is that it does not grow branches.
- Since its branches are not rooted in the earth, Kalyan Devji’s Seva Trust, with the help of scholars, took steps to ensure the tree remains standing.