Varanasi's Vishalakshi temple near Mir Ghat counted among the 51 Shakti Peeths

The Vishalakshi temple, tucked into the lanes of Varanasi, is not just a place of devotion but also an important site tied to old religious traditions. Built near Mir Ghat, the temple is counted among the 51 Shakti Peeths. Goddess Vishalakshi is worshipped here in the form of Shakti.

The temple is said to be distinctive because its identity is linked to the traditions of Kashi as well as to South Indian culture. Its legend is connected to the ornament of Goddess Sati, and the goddess is also known as Manikarni Devi.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Sati gave up her life at the yajna of King Daksha. Lord Shiva then began roaming everywhere carrying her body. It is believed that to maintain the balance of creation, Lord Vishnu cut Sati's body into several pieces with the Sudarshan Chakra. Shakti Peeths came up wherever these pieces fell on earth. The place where the goddess's ornament fell is where the temple of Goddess Vishalakshi stands today.

According to religious belief, Sati's jewelled earring fell at this spot, which is why she is known as Manikarni. An idol of Goddess Vishalakshi is installed in the sanctum of the temple. The goddess is worshipped here along with Bhairav.

Another notable feature of the temple is its ancient architecture. Among the old religious sites of Kashi, this temple shows a glimpse of South Indian temple style.

The temple is in the Lahori Tola area of Varanasi, near Mir Ghat. Devotees who come for darshan here also visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple and the Kal Bhairav temple. The narrow lanes of Kashi, its old ghats and the traditions of its temples make this pilgrimage special.