Mythological and Historical: Nav Durga Shiv Temple

Jaunpur, prominent by the name of ‘Shiraz-e-Hind’, in ancient times was referred as ‘YAMADGRIPURI’, which hold its own religious importance. Many temples are found in this region, which are thousand years old. One of these temples is ‘Nav Durga Shiv Mandir’ situated at the banks of river Gomti, west of Shahi Kila (Royal Castle), near Sadbhavna Bridge. In this temple nine beautiful and magnificent idols representing nine forms of Lord Durga is established. During ‘Navratri’ a huge number of pilgrims turn up here for worshiping the Lord. Owing to its beauty, mythological and historical importance, this temple is center of attraction for many. As per the traditions Lord Bhairavnath idol is situated near the exit, and on the right wall one will find Lord Surya idol. Lord Shani sitting tall on his ‘vahana’(carriage) underneath the banyan tree in front of Lord Surya. Near this temple another ancient Lord Shiva temple is also located, which also has idols of many deities like Radha-Krishna, Shree Ram Janki, Lord Hanuman etc. Structured in flagstone blocks, King Vijay Chand Gahadwal of Kannauj erected the temple, approximately around 1163. It was wrecked after a certain period of its establishment. Given its historical vitality and religious values, the temple was restored by Durga Puja Committee. The restoration process started in 2009 and finalized in 2012. Nav Durga Shiv Mandir Trust handles Temple’s maintenance and management. Residing on the banks of river Gomti this temple complies with ‘Vastu Kalaa’ insofar as it can be ascertained. The beauty of its temple in aesthetic sense comes from structure of its peak and classification of part peaks. Many silhouettes are etched on the walls of the inside of peak in red color. Despite its brevity, the temple’s entrance looks marvelous. The pylon of the temple is situated on the road of Sadbhavna Bridge. Of all the ‘Shaktipeeth’ temples, this temple is one of its kind, which depicts all nine forms of Lord Durga viz. Shail Putri, Brahmcharidi, Chandraghanta, Skandmata, Kushmanda, Katyayni, Kaalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhdatri. Legends say that after slaying tyrannical moster namely Kauravir, Maryada Purushottam Lord Ram worshiped Lord Shiva and Lord Parvati. Upon being ecstatic and pleased Lord Pravati and Lord Shiva emerged here to shower their blessings.