Chhatarpur Temple




Dedicated to the deity Katyayani, Chhatarpur Mandir is located in Chhatarpur, South Delhi. This resplendent temple was constructed by the very renowned saint, Sant Shree Nagpal Ji, circa 1974. A shrine has been built within the huge temple complex which houses the remains of the great saint.

Also known as Shri Adhya Katyayani Shakti Peeth Mandir, the landmark closest to this temple is Qutub Minar, about four kilometres away. It is the largest Hindu temple in India, the first being the Akshardham Temple. Katyayani is the one of the divine personalities of the multifaceted goddess Durga, the sixth avatar of Navadurga. Devotees from all caste and creed are welcomed here.

Architecture

The Chhatarpur Mandir comprises of a magnificent complex that covers a whopping 60 acres of area, further sub-divided into large temples and shrines. Being renowned for its interesting architecture that blends North-Indian and South-Indian styles together, the temple has been constructed predominantly with marble, enhanced with lattice screen-work, carvings and is surrounded with beautiful gardens.

The main temple with an embellished shrine has been dedicated to goddess Katyayani and is always thronged by a multitude of devotees during the auspicious occasion of Navratri. Moreover, temples have been built to honour other deities such as Shiva, Ganesh, Saraswati, Vishnu, Rama and Lakshmi.

The Shayan Kaksha or bedroom is present next to the main shrine with silver furniture and a wax statue of late Babaji Nagpal. The main shrine leads to a Satsang hall, where thousands of worshippers join to sing bhajans and praises to various deities. Additionally, a second shrine has been dedicated to Durga that is open throughout the day. Beyond the Markandeya temple complex, lays a small temple built in honour of the Sthan Devtas or the local deities. A Rath Ghar has been specially built for the temple chariot or rath which is popularly used during Navratri.

Another highlight of this monumental structure is Babaji’s Samadhi, lying within the Shiv-Gauri Nageshwar Temple. The actual remains of the late saint have been placed right below the Shivlinga. To the left of the Samadhi, is the Atithi Bhawan where Babaji spent his final days. This has been made into a museum.

Main Attractions

Ram Darbar

It is situated close to the entrance and it houses the idols of deities Hanuman, Lord Ram and his wife Sita, his beloved brother Lakshman.

The Shrine of Goddess Katyayani

The main temple is home to the shrine of Goddess Katyayani. The impressive statue of the goddess has her ardent devotee, Lord Ganesha, at her feet. The construction of the grand shrine represents excellent workmanship. It is opened solely during Navratri that is celebrated in great gusto by thousands of devotees and worshippers alike.

Seat of Mahishasur Mardini

Within this hall is the sculpted form which depicts the story of Mahishasur Mardini, about Goddess Durga's triumph over the demon king, Mahishasur. According to the story, the goddess killed the cruel king with her mighty trident.

Visitors can sit in the hall, and listen to narrations of Mahishasur Mardini and other stories of the Ramayana.

The Satsang Hall

During festive occasions, this massive hall with a capacity for thousand is packed with worshippers. On daily basis prayers, holy songs, and recitals are offered routinely. Moreover, cultural programmes and events are specially organized every Sunday and during Navratri, Janmashtmi, Diwali, Poornima, etc.

Ashtbhuji

Flanking the staircase leading to the hall is a massive statue of the Baba Nagpal Ji, sitting on a canopy made of white marble. One of the major highlights of the temple is that it has been created from 8 metals, 'Asht' meaning eight, namely gold, silver, zinc, lead, iron, mercury, iron and copper.

The Shayan Kaksha

This is known as the room of repose designed for the Goddess Durga. It was made on Babaji's request and is refurbished with a silver bed, a silver dressing table, and a silver chair each for the nine avatars of the goddess. A wax statue of the saint has also been kept inside to commemorate him.

Babaji's Samadhi

After the demise of the renowned founder of this temple, Baba Nagpal Ji, a shrine was constructed to lay him to rest. This is known as Babaji's Samadhi which implies his tomb. The shrine has been built within the Nageshwar temple complex.

Markandeya Mandapam

Sant Baba Nagpal Ji insisted for a special hall being built for incoming visitors during festivals and special pujas. This is known as Markandeya Mandapam. The other temples of various deities can be easily reached from here. Moreover, a magnificent statue of Lord Hanuman is built near the entrance of this hall.

How to Reach

Since the Chhatarpur Temple is located in Mehrauli-Gurgaon, South Delhi, commuting does not pose a problem for tourists. Delhi, being a metropolitan city, is well-connected through road, rail, and air.

OUR PLANING

Do you think Delhi is the most developing Capital in the world?