Shardiya Navratri 2024 has begun, and with it, temples dedicated to Mata Durga are bustling with activity as devotees across India flock to seek her blessings. On this auspicious day, many historic and renowned temples come alive with spiritual energy, offering a unique devotional experience. Among these, one temple stands out for both its religious significance and the mystical occurrences that draw countless visitors—the Maa Kankali Temple in Madhya Pradesh.
Let’s explore the fascinating history and mystery behind this sacred site, situated about 22 kilometers from Bhopal, and discover why it holds a special place in the hearts of devotees, especially during Navratri.
Nestled in the village of Gudawal in the Raisen district’s Bhojpur assembly constituency, the Maa Kankali Temple is more than 400 years old. This ancient temple has long been revered by locals and pilgrims alike, particularly for the miraculous events believed to take place within its walls.
The temple’s origins are rooted in an 18th-century legend. According to local lore, a man named Har Lal Meda had a dream in which the goddess Kankali appeared and instructed him to excavate her idol from the ground. Heeding this divine vision, Har Lal Meda dug at the location revealed to him in the dream and unearthed the idol of Maa Kankali, which has remained enshrined at the same spot ever since.
One of the temple’s most captivating and mysterious features is the position of the idol’s neck. The idol of Maa Kankali is depicted with her neck bent at a 45-degree angle—a feature that holds deep significance for devotees.
During the sacred days of Saptami and Ashtami—the seventh and eighth days of Shardiya Navratri—devotees believe that Maa Kankali’s neck miraculously straightens for a brief moment. This rare phenomenon is seen as a powerful sign of the goddess’s divine presence, and those fortunate enough to witness it believe that all their sorrows and troubles will be relieved.
While the temple attracts visitors year-round, Navratri holds a special allure. During this festival, the temple exudes a vibrant and deeply spiritual atmosphere, drawing in a significant number of pilgrims. Many travel great distances, hoping to witness the moment when the goddess’s neck straightens, an event that has been recounted in local folklore for centuries.
For the faithful, the Maa Kankali Temple offers not only a place to seek blessings but also a chance to be part of a spiritual mystery that has puzzled and inspired believers for generations.
As Navratri unfolds this year, the temple will once again become a hub of devotion, with visitors seeking the goddess’s darshan and the possibility of experiencing her miraculous presence. Whether you are a local devotee or a pilgrim from afar, the Maa Kankali Temple offers a unique and sacred experience during one of the most auspicious times of the year.
