Maa Sankata Devi Temple: The Goddess Who Removed Pandavas’ Sorrows

 

Nestled on the sacred Sindhia Ghat of Varanasi, Maa Sankata Devi Temple stands as a beacon of hope, healing, and divine protection. Revered as the Goddess of Remedy, Sankata Devi is believed to remove obstacles and grant peace to her devotees.

Mythological 

The temple’s origins are steeped in epic lore. It is said that during their exile, the Pandavas arrived in Kashi and installed the idol of Maa Sankata Devi. They worshipped her with deep devotion, and she relieved them of their suffering. With her blessings, they triumphed in the Mahabharata war, making this temple a symbol of divine intervention and victory.

Architectural Splendor

Unlike other temples in Varanasi, the Sankata Devi Mandir showcases a unique architectural style. The sanctum houses a five-foot-tall idol of the goddess, radiating strength and serenity. A spacious courtyard welcomes devotees, centered around a majestic peepal tree encircled by raised platforms—ideal for quiet reflection and prayer.

Rituals & Celebrations

• Paush Shukla Chaturdashi: On the 14th day of the bright half of Pausha month, the goddess is specially adorned, and devotees gather to seek her blessings.
• Navaratri Ashtami: The eighth day of Navaratri is dedicated to Maa Sankata, drawing large crowds for special pujas and darshan.
• Daily Worship: Devotees believe that pure-hearted worship of Sankata Devi brings prosperity and removes all worries.

Temple Timings

• Opening Hours: 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM
• Morning Aarti: 4:30 AM
• Bhog Offering: 2:30 PM
• Shringar Aarti: 11:00 PM

Beliefs & Devotional Significance

Maa Sankata Devi is revered as the Goddess of Remedy, known for her power to remove obstacles, cure ailments, and protect devotees from misfortune. Her name itself—Sankata—means distress, and she is believed to dispel it with fierce maternal grace.

• Pandava Connection: Devotees believe the Pandavas worshipped her during their exile, and with her blessings, they triumphed in the Mahabharata.
• Matrika Form: In Puranic lore, she is identified as Vikat Matrika, a fierce mother who safeguards her children from danger.
• Navaratri Ashtami: The eighth day of Navaratri is especially sacred, drawing large crowds for darshan and special pujas.
• Women’s Devotion: Many women pray to her for the protection and well-being of their husbands, especially those living far away.

How to Reach

The temple is located near Sindhia Ghat, in the Sankata Gali area of Chowk, Varanasi.

• By Air:
  Fly into Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, about 26 km from the temple. A cab or auto takes around 50–60 minutes depending on traffic.
• By Rail:
  Arrive at Varanasi Junction. The temple is 8 km away—reachable via auto or cycle rickshaw in 30–35 minutes.
• By Road:
  From nearby cities like Prayagraj, Lucknow, or Ayodhya, take a bus to Varanasi. From the bus stop, hire a cab or rickshaw to reach Sankata Gali.
• Local Tip:
  Most public vehicles drop you at Chowk, from where it’s a short walk through narrow lanes to the temple.

Tips

• Best Time to Visit:
  Early morning during Aarti (4:30 AM) or Shringar Aarti (11:00 PM) for a serene experience.
• Footwear:
  Wear easily removable footwear—lanes are narrow and temple entry requires bare feet.
• Offerings:
  Flowers, red cloth, and sweets are commonly offered. You can also donate oil for the temple lamps.
• Photography:
  Avoid taking photos inside the sanctum; it’s considered disrespectful.
• Nearby Attractions:
  Combine your visit with darshan at Kaal Bhairav Temple, Sankata Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat for a complete spiritual circuit.