Indian Temples : Chintpurni Temple, Una – Himachal Pradesh - Highlights

 



1. Introduction

Chintpurni Temple, also known as Shri Chhinnamastika Devi Temple, is a revered Shakti Peetha situated in Una district, Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the Shivalik hills, the temple is dedicated to Maa Chintpurni, a form of Goddess Durga who is believed to relieve devotees of worldly worries and grant wishes. The temple is a major pilgrimage site, drawing thousands of devotees year-round, especially during the Navratri and Shravan Ashtami fairs.

2. History (In Detail)

  • Mythological Background:
    The Chintpurni Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, places where parts of the body of Goddess Sati fell after her self-immolation and Shiva’s cosmic dance of destruction. At Chintpurni, it is believed that Sati’s forehead or feet fell, making it a spiritually charged location.

  • Goddess Chhinnamastika:
    The name Chhinnamastika (the beheaded goddess) is symbolic of self-sacrifice and freedom from ego. In Tantric traditions, she represents one of the Mahavidyas and denotes inner awakening and detachment.

  • Origin of the Temple:
    The temple is said to have been established by Pandit Mai Das, a Kalia Saraswat Brahmin, in the 16th century. He had a vision of the goddess and was guided to the site. A sacred pindi (stone) was installed to represent the goddess. His descendants continue to serve as temple priests.

3. Significance

  • Wish-fulfilling Shakti Peeth:
    Devotees offer prayers and tie threads to seek blessings. The goddess is believed to relieve “chinta” (worries), hence her name Chintpurni.

  • Spiritual Symbolism:
    The form of Chhinnamastika represents the transcendence of the ego, reinforcing detachment and ultimate surrender.

  • Center of Tantric Worship:
    While the temple is popular among common devotees, it is also an important center of Tantric practices, especially during special observances.

4. Temple Details (Full)

  • Main Deity:
    A Pindi (sacred stone) is the central object of worship, believed to be self-manifested.

  • Architecture:
    The temple features traditional Himachali-style architecture with ornate silver doors, red-and-golden interiors, and a prominent sanctum where the goddess is enshrined.

  • Temple Complex:

    • Yatri Bhawans and Dharamshalas for pilgrims
    • Langar halls serving free meals
    • Shops and stalls for puja items and local crafts
    • A tree for tying threads as symbolic offerings
    • Clean, well-managed facilities

  • Festivals:

    • Navratri (Chaitra & Ashwin): Grand fairs, night-long bhajans, and special poojas.
    • Shravan Ashtami Mela: Major annual event drawing pilgrims from Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
    • Full Moon (Purnima): Special crowd on monthly purnimas.

5. Timings

  • Summer (April to October):

    • Opening: 4:00 AM
    • Closing: 10:00 PM

  • Winter (November to March):

    • Opening: 5:30 AM
    • Closing: 9:30 PM

  • Daily Aarti:

    • Morning: Around 5:00 AM
    • Evening: Around 7:00 PM

Note: Timings may vary during festivals.

6. Connectivity

  • By Air:

    • Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Kangra (approx. 60 km)
    • Chandigarh Airport: 135 km (for broader connectivity)

  • By Train:

    • Nearest station: Chintpurni Marg Railway Station (approx. 20 km)
    • Connected via Una, Amb Andaura, and Delhi rail lines.

  • By Road:

    • Well-connected by NH-503 and state highways
    • Regular HRTC buses from major cities (Delhi, Chandigarh, Jalandhar)
    • Ample parking available at ISBT Chintpurni (approx. 1.5 km walk to the temple)

7. Legacy

  • Spiritual Continuity:
    The temple has been a beacon of faith and devotion for centuries, serving as a source of divine comfort and strength.

  • Cultural Impact:
    It is an integral part of Himachal’s 5 Devi Darshan circuit, along with Jwalamukhi, Chamunda, Naina Devi, and Brajeshwari temples.

  • Pilgrimage Heritage:
    Generations of families have recorded pilgrimages in Hindu genealogy registers maintained at the temple—preserving religious heritage and family history.

  • Tourism and Economy:
    The temple is a vital contributor to the local economy, promoting handicrafts, hospitality, and regional culture.



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