Maihar Sharada Devi Temple – History, Legends, Festivals & Pilgrimage Guide

In Sanatana Dharma, true spiritual growth comes through knowledge and wisdom. Goddess Saraswati represents this wisdom and is also worshipped as Sharada Devi. With devotion, this write-up gives a simple overview of one of the most special temples in India—the Maihar Mataa (Sharada Devi) Temple, located in Satna district of Madhya Pradesh.

This ancient temple is believed to have been built around 502 A.D. and has been a center of learning and devotion for centuries.

Story and History of the Temple

The history of the Maihar Sharada Devi Temple is connected to the legend of Goddess Sati. When Lord Shiva was carrying Goddess Sati’s body after her sacrifice, parts of her ornaments fell at different places on Earth. These places became known as Shakti Peethas.

It is believed that Goddess Sati’s necklace fell at Maihar. The name “Maihar” comes from two words:

Mai – Mother
Har – Necklace

So, Maihar means “the place where the Mother’s necklace fell.” Because of this belief, Maihar is counted as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

In ancient times, the town was called Mahidhara. The temple is built on Trikuta Hill and is surrounded by mountains, greenery, and a peaceful natural atmosphere.

Goddess Sharada and the Temple

The main deity of the temple is Goddess Sharda, who is believed to be a form of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning and knowledge. Devotees from many parts of the world visit this temple to pray for education, wisdom, and peace.

To reach the temple, devotees traditionally climb 1,063 steps. Today, a ropeway is also available for those who cannot climb.

The Goddess became popularly known as “Sharada Mai” after she was worshipped by the famous warrior brothers Alha and Udal.

The Midnight Mystery

One special mystery of the Maihar Temple is that it is believed someone performs worship at midnight, even when the temple doors are closed. This mystery has continued for nearly 900 years, and no one knows who performs this worship.

Connection with Adi Shankaracharya

Inside the temple complex, there are shrines for Lord Bala Ganapathi, Lord Muruga, and Adi Shankaracharya. Worship is performed three times daily, following the traditions of the Sringeri Sharada Peetham, based on the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta taught by Adi Shankaracharya.

For devotees who cannot travel to Sringeri, visiting Maihar is believed to give similar blessings of Mother Sharadambika.

Navaratri Festival

The Navaratri festival, celebrated for 10 days, is the most important event at this temple. It begins with Maha Abhishekam, followed by:

Laksharchana
Devi Mahatmya chanting for four days
Chandi Yagna on the ninth day
Vidyarambha Puja, where parents bring their children to start their education

During Navaratri, the Goddess is beautifully decorated in different forms such as Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Indrani, Chamundeshwari, and Gajalakshmi. The Goddess also comes out in a golden chariot procession.

The Idol of Mother Sharada

The idol of Mother Sharadambika is made from five metals (Aimpon). She is shown with a gentle smile, holding:

A honey pot
A book, symbolizing knowledge
Showing the Chin Mudra, which represents wisdom

She is believed to be Maha Saraswati herself, who came to Earth as Upaya Bharati to help Adi Shankaracharya spread Sanatana Dharma.

Devotees believe that even seeing the Mother brings knowledge, wisdom, and stability in life.

Offerings and Blessings

Devotees usually offer kheer to Maa Sharada Devi as a sign of devotion.

A visit to the Maihar Sharada Devi Temple is truly a blessing. It gives peace to the mind, strength to the heart, and guidance through knowledge and wisdom.