Indore Annapurna Mandir, Madhya Pradesh

Address

Indore Annapurna Mandir, 23, Annapurna Rd, Kranti Kriplani Nagar, Indore 452009, Madhya Pradesh

Deity

Shiva Amman: AnnaPurana

Introduction

The Annapurna Temple in Indore is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, whose name means “the giver of food and nourishment.” The temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the region, attracting devotees throughout the year. The deity, seen holding a ladle and a container, symbolizes that those who worship her will always have food and never suffer from hunger or starvation.

Puranic Significance

Historical Importance: The Annapurna Temple is one of the oldest temples in Indore, believed to have been constructed in the 9th century. The temple stands as a blend of Indo-Aryan and Dravidian architectural styles, with a towering height of over 100 feet.
Dedication to Annapurna: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the Hindu goddess of food and nourishment. Her role as the provider of sustenance makes the temple a significant place of worship for those seeking prosperity and food security.
Architectural Inspiration: The temple’s design draws inspiration from the famous Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. Its grand entrance is flanked by four large elephants that support the ornate gate, and within the complex are separate temples dedicated to Annapurna, Shiva, Hanuman, and Kal Bhairav.
Statue of Lord Kashi Vishwanath: A major attraction of the temple is the 14½ ft high statue of Lord Kashi Vishwanath, seated in a lotus position. The statue of Maa Annapurna was established on February 21, 1959, and the temple was constructed under the guidance of Mahamandaleshwar Swami Prabanandagirimharaj.

Special Features

Architectural Grandeur: The temple’s architecture closely resembles that of the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, with its intricate designs and towering height. The temple’s exterior walls are adorned with vibrant mythological imagery, creating a visually striking appearance.
Elephant Gate: One of the most remarkable features is the entrance gate, where four life-sized elephants welcome devotees, symbolizing strength and grandeur.
Krishna Mandir and Krishna Leela: Within the temple complex, there is also a Krishna Mandir with walls that depict Krishna Leela, the divine play of Lord Krishna, through beautiful pictorial illustrations.
Shrines of Other Deities: Apart from Goddess Annapurna, there are also shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, and Kal Bhairav within the temple premises.
Kashi Vishwanath Idol: Another popular attraction is the large 15-foot idol of Lord Kashi Vishwanath, sitting on a lotus flower, which further adds to the temple’s spiritual aura.

Festivals

Mahashivratri: The festival of Mahashivratri is celebrated with great devotion at the Annapurna Temple, drawing large crowds of devotees who come to offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
Food Festivals: Being the temple of Annapurna, the goddess of food, food festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm, where devotees gather to partake in rituals and offerings, highlighting the theme of nourishment and abundance.