Sitamarhi Temple or Sita Samahit Sthal is a major pilgrim site located on the Banks of River Ganga in U. P. India in between Prayagraj and Varanasi city. This temple is not merely a place of worship and devotion but holds the sacred story of Sita Mata – the divine mother figure – returning to the womb of Mother Earth.
Mythological Significance
Sitamarhi, sit͏uated in Uttar Prades͏h ho͏lds reverence as the ͏site of Sage Valmiki͏’s ͏hermitage ͏whic͏h became a sanct͏uary for Sita amidst ͏her͏ second ͏banis͏hment and witnessed the birth͏ of͏ she sons Luv͏ and Kush͏. This locale ͏garne͏rs histo͏rical importance due t͏o it being the gr͏ounds͏ where Luv and Kush seized As͏hwamedha Yagya’s ͏horse instigatin͏g a cl͏as͏h with Lord Rama’s forces. The epic͏ account ͏of identi͏fication and rejoining be͏tween R͏ama and he off͏spring͏ transpired at this very͏ place.
The Legend Unfolds
The Sitamarhi temple stands on the very spot believed to be where Goddess Sita, the epitome of purity and spouse of Lord Rama, chose to relinquish her earthly existence and merge with the elemental embrace of her mother, Bhumi Devi (Earth Goddess). The legend narrates that after the epic battle of Ramayana, and the triumphant return to Ayodhya, Sita was once again engulfed in a trial of her chastity. Unable to bear the scrutiny, she called upon the Earth to swallow her, leaving behind her two sons, Luv and Kush, in the care of their father, Rama.
Architectural Splendor
The Sita Samahit Sthal is a double-storey marvel, with the main idol of Goddess Sita enshrined on the first floor, while the ground floor houses a meditation hall adorned with a life-size idol of Sita in her royal grandeur.
One of the notable features of this temple is the 108-foot tall statue of Lord Hanuman, installed on an artificial rock of 20 ft which is visible from a considerable distance and adds a majestic aura to the site. This statue symbolizes the undying devotion of Hanuman to Lord Rama and is a focal point for many devotees who visit the temple.
Attractions and Activities
The heart of Sitamarhi is its ancient temple, believed to date back to the time of Sage Valmiki. This temple, alongside a newer temple built a few decades ago, offers a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. Devotees typically start their visit by ringing a massive bell at the ghat to pay homage to Mother Ganga, followed by prayers at the Valmiki temple, where statues of Sita, her sons, and other deities preside.
The Sitamarhi Temple complex is not only a place of worship but also a center for cultural activities like bhajan-kirtan, which resonate with the devotional energy of the pilgrims. The surrounding forest and the Ganges provide a picturesque backdrop, ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection.
One of the unique features of this site is the special Kush grass, believed to grow in the form of Sita’s hair. This grass is revered by women who come here to worship and pay their respects to Sita, adding to the temple’s aura of mystique and divinity.
Rituals and Celebrations
The Sitamarhi temple pulsates with spiritual fervor, especially during Ram Navami, the birth anniversary of Lord Rama. Devotees throng the temple to partake in the rituals and seek blessings. A unique ritual observed here is the lighting of earthen lamps for fifteen days to a month, which is believed to fulfill the desires of the devotees.
Divine Idols
The sanctum sanctorum houses the divine idols of Goddess Sita and Lord Shiva, radiating peace and spiritual energy. The idols are revered embodiments of virtue and resilience, drawing pilgrims from far and wide.
Visiting Hours
The Sitamarhi temple welcomes visitors every day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, offering a serene environment for worship and contemplation.
Journey to the Sitamarhi Temple
Sitamarhi Temple is approximately 60 km from Prayagraj (Allahabad) and 80 km from Varanasi. The nearest railway stations are Bhadohi and Mirzapur, located 40 km and 44 km away, respectively. For those traveling by road, the temple lies about 12 km from the Grand Trunk Road, making it easily accessible.
Accommodations and Amenities
For those wishing to extend their stay, the Sitamarhi temple complex houses an air-conditioned hotel and several guest houses. Local cuisine and various shops selling religious paraphernalia ensure that visitors’ physical and spiritual needs are well met.
Travel Tips
Plan your visit during the cooler months to avoid the scorching heat.
Participate in the morning and evening Aartis for a complete spiritual experience.
Respect the local customs and dress modestly.
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Conclusion
Sitamarhi Temple stands as a poignant reminder of the trials and spiritual strength of Goddess Sita. It draws not only those who follow Hinduism but anyone interested in the mythology and cultural heritage of India. As a place of immense spiritual significance, it offers a profound experience of peace and introspection amidst the tales of valor and virtue that echo through its premises.
So Embark on a divine odyssey to the Sitamarhi Temple, where mythology breathes through the walls, and faith manifests in the very air. It’s not just a visit; it’s an experience that etches itself into the soul.
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