About Maa Shailputri
Maa Shailputri is one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga and is worshipped on the first day of Navratri. She is considered the daughter of the mountains (Himalayas), hence the name “Shailputri” meaning daughter of the mountain. Maa Shailputri is known to bring peace, prosperity, and blessings to those who seek her divine intervention. It is believed that the temple of Maa Shailputri in Varanasi is one of the most revered places, especially for women who come seeking blessings for the long life of their husbands.
Women from all over the country visit this temple, and the temple sees large crowds during the Navratri festival, especially on the first day, as they believe their prayers and vows are answered by the goddess.
The Religious Significance of Maa Shailputri Temple
The Maa Shailputri Temple in Varanasi is a very ancient and significant shrine that attracts devotees from all parts of India. The temple is known for its deep spiritual aura, where devotees come to pray and seek blessings, especially during Navratri. It is said that Maa Shailputri resides here naturally, and the deity was not established by any human hands. According to the temple’s religious significance, performing rituals and offering prayers here fulfills all wishes, particularly for the well-being and longevity of husbands, which is why women frequently visit.
Why is Maa Shailputri Worshipped?
Maa Shailputri, a divine form of Goddess Durga, is revered for her blessings in the form of peace, prosperity, and longevity. On the first day of Navratri, devotees offer prayers for a long and healthy life for their husbands and family. The belief is that by worshiping Maa Shailputri with devotion, one can secure not only the longevity of their loved ones but also ensure spiritual growth and peace within the family.
Her divine presence and the blessings she offers are symbolic of purity, truth, and strength, all of which are essential virtues that everyone seeks to embody in their lives. Maa Shailputri’s worship instills these values in her devotees, encouraging them to follow the path of righteousness.
Maa Shailputri Temple Location
The Maa Shailputri Temple is located near the Varuna River, in Aliipur, Varanasi. The exact address is:
Shailputri Durga Temple, 1 km on Sarnath Road from Kazzakpura Railway Crossing. Just 10 meters before the Old Bridge, left-hand side in a street in Alaipur.
This temple is quite famous among devotees, especially those visiting Varanasi for spiritual purposes. The serene environment around the Varuna River adds to the temple’s peaceful and divine ambiance.
How to Reach Maa Shailputri Temple?
There are two major railway stations in Varanasi:
- Varanasi Junction (Cant Railway Station) – The temple is located just 10-15 minutes away from this station. You can easily reach the temple by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local buses.
   2. Manduadih Railway Station – The temple is about 10 kilometers from here. You can hire an auto, taxi, or use        local transport to reach the temple.
Varanasi is well-connected by road, and you can travel to the city from any part of India. Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available in the city, making it easy for you to reach the temple.
Maa Shailputri Temple Timing
The temple remains open during the following hours:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
- Evening: 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Aartis are performed both in the morning and evening. Devotees can visit the temple during these hours to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Maa Shailputri Temple: A Spiritual Experience
The Maa Shailputri Temple in Varanasi is known for its spiritual strength and the positive energy it offers to all those who visit. Devotees come here not only to ask for blessings for the longevity of their husbands but also to receive spiritual wisdom and inner peace. The divine presence of Maa Shailputri, whose blessings are known to remove all obstacles, is felt deeply by those who seek her grace.
The temple’s religious significance is heightened during Navratri, when devotees come in large numbers to perform rituals and yagnas. Many believe that by visiting this temple and performing the rituals correctly, they can see their desires fulfilled and their prayers answered by the goddess.
What to Do When You Visit Maa Shailputri Temple
Offer Prayers for Long Life:
Women specifically visit the temple to pray for their husband’s long life and well-being. Devotees often perform rituals and offer fruits and flowers to Maa Shailputri.
Chant Mantras:
Chanting sacred mantras and hymns dedicated to Maa Shailputri is an important part of the worship here. Devotees can also recite the Shailputri Stotra or other hymns to invoke her blessings.
Offer Prasad:
Offering prasad in the form of fruits, sweets, and flowers is considered very auspicious. The prasad is blessed by Maa Shailputri, and it is believed to bring peace and prosperity.
Participate in the Yagnas During Navratri:
If you are visiting during Navratri, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the yagnas and special prayers that are conducted for the goddess.
Practice Meditation and Reflection:
Many devotees come here to meditate and reflect on their life, focusing on spiritual growth and finding inner peace.
Why is Maa Shailputri Temple So Famous?
Maa Shailputri is considered one of the most revered deities, especially for women. This temple holds immense significance in the spiritual community of Varanasi. During Navratri, thousands of women visit the temple to seek her blessings, and the temple experiences one of its highest footfalls.
The temple is famous for fulfilling the desires of the devotees and offering them spiritual peace. Women believe that their prayers for the longevity of their husbands and the well-being of their families are answered here, making it an especially important temple for them.