Baglamukhi Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh

Address

Baglamukhi Devi Temple, Bankhandi (NH503), Chandigarh-Dharamshala Road, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh 177114

Deity

Amman: Baglamukhi Devi

Introduction

• Location: Approximately 30 km from Kangra District, near Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
• Surroundings: Nestled in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas.
• Name Meaning: “Baglamukhi” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Bagla” (bride) and “Mukhi” (face).
• Historical Significance: The temple is believed to be around 1000 years old and is one of several dedicated to Goddess Baglamukhi across India.
• Color Theme: The temple is vibrantly painted in yellow, reflecting the Goddess’s affinity for the color. The entrance, domes, and pillars are all adorned in this shade.
• Interior Features: Inside the temple, there is a tiered dome supported by pillars and a large havankund (fire pit) for rituals. The idol of Goddess Baglamukhi is embellished with yellow ornaments, garments, and flowers.

Puranic Significance

• Origin Story:
  • Goddess Baglamukhi is a manifestation of Adi Shakti, invoked by gods and celestial beings to defeat the demon Madanasura, who caused chaos and storms on Earth.
  • The texts of Svatantra Tantra recount the goddess emerging from a lake in response to the pleas of Lord Vishnu and other gods, taking the form of Baglamukhi.
  • As one of the forms of Goddess Parvati, she is worshipped widely across India, with the Kangra temple being a significant site.
  • The temple’s history predates the Mahabharata era, with associations to Lord Brahma. According to mythology, Baglamukhi emerged to recover sacred texts stolen by a Rakshasa (demon).
  • It is the 8th Shaktipeeth, where the Pandavas are believed to have worshipped during their exile.

Special Features

• Idol Description:
  • The idol of Baglamukhi in Kangra features a dark face with shimmering golden eyes, a nose ring, and a crown, representing a unique portrayal of the goddess.
  • She is depicted sitting, with her club or mace positioned beside her.
• Temple Aesthetics:
  • The walls of the temple are painted bright golden yellow, honoring the traditional color associated with the goddess.
• Havans and Rituals:
  • An octagonal platform with a towering pagoda-like spire is present for performing havans, yajnas, or fire sacrifices upon devotees’ requests.

Festivals

• Major Celebrations:
  • Festivals celebrated at the temple include:
    • Navratri
    • Guru Purnima
    • Vasant Panchami
    • Other special pujas and aartis throughout the year.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Bankhandi

Nearest Railway Station

Kangra station

Nearest Airport

Chandigarh

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