- Kali
Bhadrakali Temple
- Itkori,Jharkhand
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Overview
The famous Bhadrakali Temple of Itkori is situated in the Indian state of Jharkhand. The temple is primarily dedicated to Goddess Kali and is located on the banks of the river Mahanadi. Surrounded by thick forests and hills, this shrine lies at a distance of about 16 kms to the west of Chauparan and is well connected by the G.T. Road.
About The Temple
The temple is historically significant, especially because of the black coloured statues that were constructed here during the reigns of Shak, Gupta and Vardha about 1500 to 1800 years ago. These statues were found from this temple site during excavations. Currently the temple stands as a major pilgrimage centre as well as a renowned tourist destination. Gauthama Budhdha is believed to have visited this place and had stayed here for some time. Later, his relatives came here in search of him but Buddha ignored to recognise them. His relatives are believed to have said “Itkhoi – Yahi kho diya”. Since then the place got its name as ITKHORI.
The Archaeological Survey of India has cleared only the wild under growths close to Ma Bhadrakali Temple until recently. Actual excavation works are yet to start. In January 2012, a black stoned plate of a Jain Tirthankar was found. A 20cmx10cm measuring disc pertaining to Jainism was also excavated from a Buddhist stupa on temple this premises. Further excavations are believed to reveal Itkhori as the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar Sheetalnath and also one of the holy places visited by the great Buddha himself. In the year 1983, villagers had discovered the charan paduka of Jain Tirthankar Sheetalnath.
How To Reach Bhadrakali Temple
Road
The nearest bus stop is located at Chatra.
Railways
The closest railhead is situated at Koderma railway station.
Airport
The nearest Airport is the Gaya Airport.
Temple Address
Bhadrakali Temple,
Itkori, Chatra,
Jharkhand - 825408.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Protection from evil
- Salvation
- Destruction of ego
- Liberation
Shlokas
Jayantii Manggalaa Kaalii Bhadrakaalii Kapaalinii Durgaa Shivaa Kssamaa Dhaatrii Svaahaa Svadhaa Namostu Te
Meaning -We salute the Devi Kali, who is always victorious and always auspicious, we offer salutations to Bhadrakali Devi who wears a skull garland, we salute Shiva's consort and the embodiment of self-control and supports all beings, Devi Durga, who is Swaha as well as Swadha. We offer our salutations to you.
Om Maha Kalyai Ca Vidmahe Smasana Vasinyai Ca Dhimahi Tanno Kali Prachodayat
Meaning -Om the great Goddess Kali who stays in the ocean of life and burial grounds, we focus our energies on you, may you grant us our wishes and bless us
Kaalika Kalahey Gorey Paathuthvaam Parameshwari Mandapey Thathra Mathangi Thatha Sowmya Swayamwarey
Meaning -Let the ever charming, mother of the universe, protect us and stay in this mandap and bestow her blessing on us as mother Mathangi.
Katyayani Mahamaye Mahayoginyadheeshwari Nandgopsutam Devipatim Me Kuru Te Namah
Meaning -Oh Goddess Katyayani, the great vigour of the Lord, the owner of great magical power and the mighty one who controls all, please make the son of Nanda Maharaj my husband. I offer my salutations to you.
Timings
The temple is open from 5.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.