Sri Bhadrakali Shaktipeeth Nashik,Maharashtra

Bhadrakali Temple in Nashik, Maharashtra, is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, a fierce form of Goddess Parvati. This temple holds significant historical and spiritual importance, being recognized as one of the Shakti Peethas—sacred sites where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen.

Architecture

The Bhadrakali Temple has a traditional design with a large, two-storey complex. Unlike many temples, it does not have a tall spire (shikhara), possibly to avoid destruction during historic invasions.

The main sanctum houses a self-manifested (swayambhu) idol of Goddess Bhadrakali, which is about 15 inches tall and made of panchaloha (an alloy of five metals). The goddess is depicted with 18 arms, each holding a different weapon, symbolizing divine power and protection.

History

The temple is believed to be very old, with the present structure undergoing major renovations in 1790 AD under Sardar Ganpatrao Patwardhan Dixit. During periods of Islamic rule, many temples were destroyed. To protect the idol of Goddess Bhadrakali, devotees hid it on a nearby hill. Once the threats passed, the idol was reinstalled, and the temple was restored.

Legend

According to Hindu mythology, King Daksha, Goddess Sati’s father, organized a grand yajna (sacrificial ritual) but did not invite his son-in-law, Lord Shiva, due to personal conflicts. Ignoring Shiva’s advice, Sati attended the yajna, where she was insulted. Unable to bear the humiliation, she sacrificed herself in the fire.

Enraged, Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, a fierce dance of destruction, carrying Sati’s body. To calm him and save the universe, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to cut Sati’s body into pieces. These parts fell at different places, forming the Shakti Peethas. It is believed that Sati’s chin (chibuk) fell at the site of the Bhadrakali Temple, leading to the manifestation of Goddess Bhadrakali here.

Bhadra’ refers to the one who thinks about the welfare of everyone. Maa Kali took the ‘Bhadra’ form to shower her Divine Blessings on her Devotees and fulfill all their wishes.

The temple is especially vibrant during Navratri, when thousands of devotees visit to participate in celebrations and rituals.