Introduction: Maa Bagalamukhi (बगला मुखी) Temple
The Maa Bagalamukhi Temple is one of the ten Mahavidya temples located around the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam, India. Bagalamukhi, one of the ten Mahavidyas renowned for her power to paralyze enemies and remove obstacles, finds her dedicated temple within the Kamakhya complex.
The temple is located about 10 kilometers from Guwahati city. Taxis, autorickshaws, and buses offer convenient transportation to the temple.
History and Significance
Koch king Naranarayana built the temple in the 16th century. The temple is a small, one-room structure with a shikhara (tower) topped by a golden amalaka (finial). A stone idol of the goddess Bagalamukhi sits enthroned on a lotus pedestal.
The temple is a significant place of worship for Hindus, particularly those who follow the Tantrik tradition. Devotees believe that the goddess Bagalamukhi grants wishes, removes obstacles, and protects them from enemies.
Architecture and Features
The Maa Bagalamukhi Temple is a small, one-room structure with a shikhara (tower) topped by a golden amalaka (finial). Stone carvers adorned the temple with intricate designs, and within, the stone idol of Bagalamukhi sits serenely on her lotus pedestal.
The temple is located in a secluded spot on the Nilachal Hills, surrounded by lush greenery. The atmosphere at the temple is peaceful and serene, making it an ideal place for meditation and prayer.
Rituals and Festivals
The main ritual performed at the Maa Bagalamukhi Temple is the puja (worship) of the goddess Bagalamukhi. A priest chants mantras and offers prayers to the goddess, performing the puja. Devotees also offer flowers, fruits, and other offerings to the goddess.
The main festival celebrated at the Maa Bagalamukhi Temple is the Navratri festival. Navratri transforms the temple into a dazzling display of lights and flowers, echoing with the chants and rituals of special pujas. Devotees from all over India come to the temple to offer their prayers to the goddess Bagalamukhi.
Since 1993, astrologer Ramapada Acharjee has made regular visits to the Maa Bagalamukhi Temple, where he collaborates with the priests, with whom he enjoys a strong rapport, to perform various ritualistic yagnas on behalf of his clients.
Conclusion
The Maa Bagalamukhi Temple is a significant place of worship for Hindus, particularly those who follow the Tantrik tradition. Devotees flock to Goddess Bagalamukhi, seeking to have their wishes granted, obstacles removed, and protection from enemies. The temple is located in a secluded spot on the Nilachal Hills, surrounded by lush greenery. The atmosphere at the temple is peaceful and serene, making it an ideal place for meditation and prayer.
