Nestled in the serene town of Nainital, Uttarakhand, the Pashan Devi Temple stands as a unique spiritual and natural wonder. This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is especially revered for its miraculous water, which is believed to possess healing powers. Nainital, known for its scenic beauty and revered temples, is home to this fascinating shrine that has been drawing devotees and tourists alike for generations.
A Temple of Miracles
Uttarakhand, often referred to as the land of gods, is dotted with temples and shrines, each with its own rich history and divine significance. The Pashan Devi Temple is no exception. Located on the banks of the picturesque Naini Lake, this temple attracts devotees not just for its natural beauty but also for the water that flows through it, which locals and visitors alike believe holds miraculous properties.
Why the Name “Pashan Devi”?
The name “Pashan Devi” is derived from the fact that the idol of the goddess here is carved into a natural stone. “Pashan” means “stone” in Hindi, and the goddess is believed to be naturally represented in a rock formation. The idol of Goddess Durga, also known as Nava Durga (representing the nine forms of Durga), is believed to be carved out of this rock, adding to the mystical aura of the temple. Devotees worship the goddess, not only for her divine powers but also for her miraculous presence in the form of a natural stone.
The Miraculous Water
One of the key features that make the Pashan Devi Temple truly unique is its water, which is believed to possess divine healing powers. According to local beliefs, the water here has the ability to cure various physical ailments, particularly skin-related issues. Devotees visiting the temple believe that by drinking or bathing in this sacred water, they can experience health benefits and find relief from their ailments.
The temple’s miraculous water is said to have been blessed by the goddess herself, and many locals and visitors believe that it can cure a wide range of ailments, including skin diseases. The water’s healing properties are so revered that people make it a point to collect some of it for home use.
Healing Powers Beyond Skin Diseases
Apart from being a remedy for skin problems, the water of Pashan Devi Temple is also believed to have the power to heal other conditions. One of the most unique and lesser-known beliefs associated with this temple is its ability to help people with speech disorders, specifically stuttering. It is said that by drinking the water from this temple, individuals who suffer from stuttering may find relief and improve their speech.
This belief has drawn many stutterers to the temple, especially during the auspicious time of Navratri, when devotees gather in large numbers to seek blessings from the goddess. During this festival, the temple becomes a focal point for those seeking divine intervention for various health conditions.
A Sacred Place for Devotees
The Pashan Devi Temple holds a special place in the hearts of its devotees, who come from far and wide, especially during Navratri. It is a time when the temple sees an influx of visitors who come to offer their prayers to Goddess Durga, hoping to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and success. The unique blend of natural beauty, religious significance, and miraculous water makes this temple one of the most revered shrines in Uttarakhand.
Leave a comment