Some of the stories and myths that are a part of India’s rich history and culture definitely stand out from the crowd. One of them is the national mythology pertaining to the 51 Shakti Peethas. In Hindu mythology, Shakti Peeths are considered as significant shrines or places of pilgrimage. It is believed that Devi Sati’s jewelry or other body parts have fallen to Earth from the skies at these points. Devi Sati started the narrative by setting herself fire and dying from burn injuries. After that, Lord Shiva became so distraught that he rushed furiously throughout the world while carrying her dead body on his shoulder. Lord Vishnu cut apart Devi Sati’s corpse with his Sudarshan Chakra, knowing that this would cause vast catastrophe. She is said to have left behind pieces of herself at 51 distinct places throughout India. At each of these locations where the Goddess’ bodily portion was lost, Shakti Peeths have sprung forth in this manner.
The Mangal Chandika Shakti Peeth in West Bengal is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. It is located in the state’s Bardhaman district near the village of Ujani. The Mangal Chandika Peeth was built here because it is said that the Goddess’ elbow fell here. The deity here is called Mangal Chandi, and she is a manifestation of the goddess Durga. When the temple was initially built, the mother’s left elbow was put underneath the deity in a golden cup. Later, a stone idol of Kasti was erected here.
The Roy family has performed priestly duties at the temple for many years. The Goddess came in an ancestor’s dream hundreds of years ago, prompting the family to swear to take care of the temple, according to Somnath Roy, who is now in charge of the temple. According to him, Maa Mangal Chandi has been worshipped by priests for 21 generations, and he is the 22nd.
During Durga Puja, the goddess is worshipped here with much pomp and ceremony, and the yearly Poila Magh Ujani fair is also conducted here in a magnificent way. On the banks of the river Ajay, where the temple is also situated, the fair is held on the sand. According to Somnath Roy, the goddess receives fish every day as part of the ceremony; the only day she does not get fish is Ashtami.
The temple provides lodging options for visitors at a fee of Rs 600 per night. It’s also possible to reserve bhog or prasad in advance.