The revered Shondesh Shaktipeeth is renowned for being one of the 51 holy sites in Hinduism. This remarkable pilgrimage site lies at the source of Narmada River, located within Amarkantak district of Madhya Pradesh state.
As per the ancient Hindu Puranas, any place where a body part or jewelry of Goddess Sati fell is called Shaktipeeth and there are 51 such sites across India. In particular, it’s believed that her right hip (buttock) landed in Shona Shaktipeeth. Devi Purana safeguarded and propagated this wisdom to future generations.
Shondesh Shakti Peetha is one of the 51 revered Shakti Peethas. Legend has it that King Daksha held a yajna without inviting Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Sati, due to his prideful disregard for Shiva’s worthiness.
Mata Sati didn’t think this was right and went to join the yajna without being invited. Shiva was insulted at the yajna place, and Mata Sati couldn’t bear it. She jumped into the Havan Kund.
Upon learning of the tragedy, Lord Shiva rushed to retrieve Mata Sati’s body from Havan Kund and commenced his Tandava – a dance of destruction that shook the entire universe. Knowing he must act in order to protect all living beings, Lord Vishnu then utilized his illustrious Sudarshan Chakra to divide her physical form into 51 parts, each landing place thereafter known as Shakti Peetha.
When Lord Shiva was in his Rudra form and incinerated three cities to ashes, the remnants descended upon Kailash and Amarkantak. He kept a portion of those cinders in heaven where they transformed into numerous lingas of Shiva that can be found only at Jwaleshwar temple. All who enter this sacred temple are blessed with purification for their soul by virtue of these hallowed remains.
The exquisite artwork, masterful architecture and creation of the Shondesh Shakti Peetha is simply breathtaking. Crafted from white stone, it’s encircled by tranquil ponds that add a touch of majesty to its beauty. Not only this, but visitors can also enjoy the picturesque view of Son river and Kund nearby as well as two mesmeric mountain ranges (Satpura & Vidhya) which merge at this mesmerizing site.
The majestic mountain ranges and grand valleys provide an enchanting sight, while the serene sunrise creates a captivating view. This picturesque panorama brings life to any location!
Celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm, Mahashivratri is one of the most exuberant festivals in India. Thousands travel from far and wide to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and offer their prayers on this day. Fairs are organized as part of the celebration – a place for devotees to come together and enjoy themselves amidst festive revelry. Most people keep fast throughout the night while worshipping God through chants, mantras, hymns and praises.
During Navaratri, Makar Sankranti, Sharad Purnima, and Deepawali festivities, devotees of Shiva flock to the temple in order to pay their respects. These days are marked with immense respect and fervor across India.
Along with many other joyous festivals, Somvati Amavasya and Ram Navami are celebrated by people everywhere with overwhelming enthusiasm.
By Road
You can find many buses floating towards Amarkantak from cities like Bilaspur and Shadol. Local transport system like auto rickshaws and buses run frequently.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is at Pendra Road station which is about 17 kms from Narmada Devi Temple.
By Air
The nearest airport is at Jabalpur which is 245 kms and Raipur in Chhattisgarh which is 230 kms. If you are not from India, you need to drop at Delhi or Kolkata International airports.
