1,311 akhand jyot lit at Bhavani Mata temple in Chaukigad as devotees throng for Navratri
Devotees are thronging the Bhavani Mata temple at the source of the Vena river in Chaukigad, about 40 km from Nagpur, where 1,311 akhand jyot are burning this Navratri.
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The Bhavani Mata temple stands at Chaukigad, at the source of the Vena river, about 40 km from Nagpur. Large crowds of devotees are arriving during the Navratri festival, and a variety of religious programmes are under way at the temple. People are coming from far and wide for darshan.
Devotees hold a deep faith that the Mother fulfils everyone's wishes. This time the entire shrine is lit by 1,311 akhand jyot, and a steady stream of worshippers continues.
Akhand jyot are lit at the temple every year during Navratri. Devotees from not only Nagpur district but also other states of the country and from abroad send money and have an akhand manokamna jyot lit in their name. This time Bhavani Dham temple is illuminated by a total of 1,311 akhand jyot.
During the festival, puja, aarti and distribution of prasad are being conducted with due rites at the temple every morning and evening. Cultural and religious events such as garba, Mata jagran, gondhal and kirtan are also being held.
Under the leadership of the Maa Bhavani Mata Seva Samiti, Chaukigad, Markasur, Katol tehsil, Nagpur district, all necessary facilities for visiting devotees, including road access, devotee accommodation and a dining hall, have been provided.
The Vena river originates at Madagad-Tedkadya (Chaukigad). A small fort or watch post once stood here, and its remains can still be seen. It is said that the Bhosale rulers of Nagpur used to come to this place to seek blessings before going to war. Over time the ancient temple had fallen into ruin, but it has now been rebuilt on a grand scale.
Ancient carved stone pieces and remains of the old temple are still present here. Set amid natural beauty and in a remote area at the source of the Vena river, the temple presents a striking sight.
According to the Devi Bhagavata and Skanda Purana, it is regarded as the seventh of the 108 Shaktipeeths. At this sacred place on the banks of the Vena river, the Mother is mentioned in the form of Amruta Devi. During these days of Navratri, thousands of devotees are bowing here and seeking the Mother's blessings.
