Bhramari /Jansthan Shakti Peeth

Jansthan Shakti Peeth, also referred to as Bhramari Shakti Peeth, is a prominent location of the 51 remarkable and sacred shrines described in Hindu mythology. Every single one of these locations hold immense spiritual significance and are believed to be where pieces of Sati’s body or garments were scattered when she was dismembered by Vishnu. The Devi Purana outlines all 51 renowned spots; Jansthan Shakti Peeth being located at Vani village near Nasik, Maharashtra.

The revered temple of Bhramari stands proudly in the Panchavati, where parts of Goddess Sati’s chin fell. This holy shrine honours Shakti as ‘Bhramari’ and Shiva is known as ‘Vikritaksha’. It is said that Chibuk appeared here in a powerful form of Shakti – famously stated by locals to be “Chibuke Bhramari Devi Vikritaksha Janasthale.” Not only does this sacred place have an altar built for idols including Neo-Durga and a striking image of Badrakali, but it also lacks any kind of peak or spire.

The mysterious and powerful Goddess Bhramari Devi is one of the many forms of Maa Kalika. She radiates an intensity brighter than a million dark suns, while black bees circle around her and take shelter in each hand – which are posed to grant boons or soothe fear. Her presence alone is capable of destroying egoistic demons, who quietly hum in reverence at her Seed-Mantra: “Hring.”

Located approximately sixty kilometers from Nashik, Maa Saptashrungi or Devi Saptashringi is a venerated pilgrimage site with deep Hindu roots. The seven mountain peaks (Sapta meaning ‘seven’ and shrung denoting ‘peaks) are believed to house the goddess of power, Saptashrungi Nivasini. This paradisiacal destination can be found in Vani – a quaint village near Nashik in India.

This specific temple is one out of the 51 Shakti peethas present on the Indian subcontinent. A legend states that Devi manifested herself miraculously upon a rock located at the edge of seven mountain peaks, which gave her title of Sapta Shrungi Mata (mother of the seven peaks).

An impressive 10-foot sculpture of the Devi is awe-inspiringly embellished with 18 hands, each equipped with a various weapon such as; Beads, Axe, Mace, Arrow, Thunderbolt, Lotus Flower Bow and Pot of Water. She also carries a Cudgel Lance Sword Shield Conch Bell Cup Trident Noose and Spinning Disc (Sudarsana Chakra).

The venerated idol is traditionally adorned with Sindoor, seen as a symbol of good fortune in this region. She is also known as Mahishasur Mardini – the one who defeated the demon Mahishasur when he appeared in the form of a buffalo. Paying homage to this great victory and displayed at the bottom of Saptashrung mountain, where visitors start their ascent up its steps, lies an awe-inspiring carved stone head believed to be that of said demon. This very same hill was part Dandakaranya forest from which Lord Rama’s epic Ramayana story originated.

As the story goes, Lord Rama and Seeta visited this holy land to seek blessings from Amba. Spanning across our nation are 51 Shakti Peetas – 4 of which are considered “Adi” or original, and 18 declared as much revered Maha Shakti Peethas. This year broaden your spiritual horizons by booking a tour package to Janashtan’s esteemed Vishwanath Temple in Nashik!