Sarwa-syarthi Hare devi Maya Sakthi Namosthude||
Maya Devi Sakthi peet is in Haridwar, meaning 'gateway to God Hari'.
It is on the banks of river Ganga at the foot hills of Shivaliks.The Ganges leaves the
Himalayas and enters the plains with Haridwar being the first major town on the plains.
Devi Dhakshayani's heart and navel from her burnt body
fell in this place when she went into 'yoga-agni to keep the honour of her consort lord Siva.
(refer to 'Yoga-agni' in 'Abodes of devi' for background story)
The consort of Maya Devi is here Siva. This is also called 'Mayapuri-Peetam'
This holy place has gained fame from the grace of the trinity of gods Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
The water here is pure, clear and cool . People carry the holy water from the river,
which remains fresh for years.Dense forests and water holes enhance the
beautiful sights of this holy land. Haridwar is among the seven sacred places where it is believed
high level of spiritual merit can be earned through prayers.
Through out the year Haridwar is crowded with devotees.
Devotees gather in this place to take a holy dip in the Ganges. Every evening Aarti
(prayer with lighted lamp) is performed at the Har-ki-Pauri Ghat. It is a
beautiful sight as thousands of lamps and marigold flowers float and illuminate
the Holy waters.
Har-ki-Pauri - is the main sacred Ghat (riverbank) of the Ganga in Haridwar.
This ghat gets its name from a footprint on a stone in one of its upper walls
which is believed to be that of Lord Vishnu. This is the spot where the Ganges leaves
the mountains and enters the plains.
The ancient epics mention the different names of this place as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, Mokshadwar,
Kapilsthan. Haridwar is the gateway to the four pilgrimages of Uttaranchal to Badrinath, Kedarnath,
Gangotri and Yamunotri. This is one of the oldest living cities.
It finds a mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures. It has retained its importance as being
the mystic venue for the salvation of the soul. This is the place of
'tapas' for sages and rishis. It is one of the venues of the Kumbha Mela that takes place
once in 12 years.
Om Sakthi
Location:
Haridwar is in Uttranchal state.
Haridwar is in Uttranchal state.
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