Indian Temples: Maa Chandrahasini Temple | Chandrapur, Chhattisgarh, India - Highlights

 


Maa Chandrahasini Temple | Chandrapur, Chhattisgarh


Introduction:

The Maa Chandrahasini Temple, located in Chandrapur town of Janjgir-Champa district, Chhattisgarh, is a major Shakti Peetha and one of the most revered temples in the region. Situated along the scenic banks of the Mahanadi River, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Chandrahasini, a benevolent and powerful form of Durga or Shakti. It is a sacred pilgrimage spot known for its spiritual ambience and ancient legends.


History in Detail:

The temple’s origin is steeped in mythology and folk tradition. According to local beliefs, Maa Chandrahasini appeared to protect the region from demonic forces and has been worshipped here for several centuries. Her name “Chandrahasini” comes from the crescent-shaped sword (Chandrahasa) she wields, symbolizing the divine power that destroys evil and upholds righteousness.

The site is believed to have been a center of tribal and tantric worship since ancient times. Over time, the temple became a popular center for devotees, especially during times of calamity and war, with many rulers and local chieftains offering patronage. The current temple structure was developed and renovated over the 19th and 20th centuries with community support and royal endowments.


Significance:

  • Spiritual Power: Maa Chandrahasini is worshipped as a wish-fulfilling deity, believed to bless her devotees with peace, strength, and protection.
  • Shakti Peeth Link: Though not one of the 51 classical Shakti Peethas, it holds immense regional significance and is revered in the same light by devotees.
  • Navratri Celebrations: The temple becomes a major hub during Chaitra and Sharad Navratri, attracting lakhs of pilgrims from Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and even Maharashtra.
  • Tantric Sadhana: The temple is considered a center for Shakti Sadhana and Tantra practices, particularly during full moon nights and Navratri.

Temple Details:

  • Main Deity: Maa Chandrahasini (a form of Durga with a crescent sword)
  • Location: On the eastern bank of the Mahanadi, in Chandrapur town, Janjgir-Champa
  • Architecture: The temple is built in a traditional Hindu style with a shikhara (spire), garbhagriha (sanctum), and mandapa. The idol is richly decorated with flowers, sindoor, and gold ornaments.
  • Complex: The temple complex includes shrines dedicated to Hanumanji, Shivji, and Ganeshji, along with a sacred kund (tank) used for rituals.
  • Scenic Location: The setting on the riverbank adds a serene and powerful spiritual aura, especially during sunrise and evening aarti.

Darshan Timings:

  • Temple Opens: 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Evening Hours: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Aarti Timings:
    • Morning Aarti: 6:00 AM
    • Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
  • Special Days: During Navratri, Paush Purnima, and full moon nights, the temple remains open for extended hours, and devotees perform jagaran and yajnas.

Connectivity:

By Road:

  • Chandrapur is well-connected via road to major towns in Chhattisgarh.
  • It is approximately:
    • 22 km from Dabhra
    • 90 km from Janjgir
    • 170 km from Raigarh
    • Buses and private vehicles operate frequently from nearby cities.

By Rail:

  • Nearest railway station: Raigarh (90 km) or Champa (80 km), both well-connected to Bilaspur, Raipur, and other major junctions.

By Air:

  • Nearest airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur (approx. 180 km)
  • From the airport, one can take a cab or bus to reach Chandrapur.

Legacy:

Maa Chandrahasini Temple holds a deep spiritual and cultural legacy in eastern Chhattisgarh and adjoining states. It symbolizes:

  • The devotion of tribal and rural communities to Shakti worship.
  • A living center of traditional rituals, some of which are centuries old.
  • A spiritual lifeline for people in times of illness, drought, or personal crisis—many visit the temple to offer coconuts, red cloth, bangles, and silver eyes in thanks or supplication.

The temple’s riverbank location and powerful deity presence have made it a key pilgrimage site, with plans often underway to develop it further for religious tourism.



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