Dandeshwari Temple Of Chhattisgarh

Danteshwari Temple, located in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, is not only famous for its beauty and historicity but is also an important site associated with deep religious and cultural beliefs:

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Historical and Religious Significance

This temple is considered to be one of the Shakti Peethas—the tooth (dant) of Goddess Sati fell here, hence the name of the Goddess Danteshwari and the place Dantewada.

The temple was built around the 14th century by King Annamdev of the Kakatiya dynasty. Later it was renovated by the Pandava descendants from Warangal and Maharani Prafulla Kumari Devi of Bastar.

Architecture and Structure

The temple is mainly made of teak wood and stone and also prominently houses the Garuda pillar—devotees believe that the devotee who holds it in his arms will surely get his wishes fulfilled.

The temple is divided into four main parts – Garbhagriha, Mahamandap, Mukhya Mandap and Sabha Mandap. The Garbhagriha houses a highly artistic six-armed black granite idol of the Goddess, in which the Goddess is seen holding a conch, a sword, a trident, a bell, a lotus and the head of a demon in her six hands; the form of Narasimha is inscribed on the idol.

Cultural and festival features

Traditionally, three Navratris are celebrated here – Chaitra, Sharadiya and Phalguna (called 'Akhet Navratri' or 'Phagun Madai'), which is a unique event.

The most distinctive festival is Bastar Dussehra which lasts for about 75 days. During this time, the palanquin of the Goddess leaves the temple and takes out a procession throughout the region.

The worship system here is deeply connected to the tribal culture and the local people consider Mata as their Kuldevi (family deity).

It is mandatory to wear a lungi or dhoti before entering the temple, and wearing stitched clothing is considered taboo

"Jai Johar Jai Chhattisgarh"