Vishalakshi Devi Temple: The Divine Mother of Varanasi

Kasi Vishalakshi Devi, one of the most revered deities in Varanasi, holds immense spiritual significance. Known as the “Goddess with Wide Eyes,” she is a manifestation of Goddess Parvati. The Vishalakshi Temple in Varanasi is among the 51 Shakti Peethas and attracts millions of pilgrims each year. This sacred site is part of the revered triad of temples, which includes Kanchi Kamakshi, Madurai Meenakshi, and Kasi Vishalakshi. 

Historical Significance 

The origins of the Shakti Peethas are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Goddess Sati, the first consort of Lord Shiva and the daughter of Daksha Prajapati, self-immolated in protest against her father's disrespect toward her husband. Overcome with grief, Lord Shiva carried her charred body across the universe. To restore cosmic balance, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to dismember Sati’s body, and the places where her body parts fell became sacred Shakti Peethas. 

It is believed that either Sati's earrings or her eyes fell at the site where the Vishalakshi Temple now stands in Varanasi. The temple is also known as Vishalakshi Gauri Mandir or Vishalakshi Amman Kovil. Notably, it has been built and is meticulously maintained by the Nattukottai Nagarathar, a mercantile community from Tamil Nadu. 

Architectural Aspect

The Vishalakshi Temple is a magnificent example of South Indian architecture. At the entrance, an exquisitely decorated gopuram (ornamented tower) welcomes devotees. Intricate lion carvings on either side of the gateway symbolize strength and divine protection. Above the entrance, a beautifully crafted marble relief of Goddess Lakshmi exudes serenity and blessings. 

A Tamil inscription etched onto the temple walls adds to its historical charm. Inside the sanctum, sacred elements such as Shiva Lingams, divine serpent sculptures (Nagas), and a beautifully carved idol of Lord Ganesha create a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Facing the main shrine, a marble idol of Adi Shankaracharya sits in meditation, embodying wisdom and enlightenment. 

The temple also features a smaller shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and a large Lingam representing cosmic male energy. A prominent feature is also a platform displaying nine intricately carved statues of the Navagrahas (the nine planetary deities of Vedic astrology). These celestial figures, depicted in human-like forms, are regularly worshipped with offerings of flowers, sacred leaves, and bright vermilion powder. 

A unique aspect of the temple’s architecture is its small entrance, symbolizing the humility of humans before the divine. This compact gateway serves as a reminder that no one is greater than God. 
 
The city of Varanasi depicts Shastanga (six-fold) yoga through six temples which are: - 

Rituals and Festivals 

Before offering prayers at the Vishalakshi Temple, devotees often take a holy dip in the sacred Ganges, believing that worship, hymns, and charity at this site bring divine blessings. Many pilgrims also visit the Kashi Vishwanath and Annapurna temples along with the shrine of Vishalakshi Devi. 

The temple is most vibrant during the grand celebrations of the Navaratris (Nine Nights of the Goddess): 

Another significant festival celebrated at the temple is Kajali Tij, observed on the third day of the waning moon in Bhadrapada (August-September). Women sing traditional Kajali songs and celebrate the festival for the well-being of their loved ones. 

Temple visiting Hours