Shri Bandidevi Temple (Uttar Pradesh) : One of the 51 Shaktipeethas (seats of Divine Energy)

(1) Venimadhav, (2) Shri Bandidevi from the temple

The temple of Shri Bandidevi is situated at the Dashashwamedh Ghat at Shrikshetra Kashi. This temple is one among the 51 Shaktipeethas. The idol of Deity Venimadhav is to Her right and two idols of Deity Maruti, the eternal banyan tree, Vasuki (serpent) are to Her left. The idol of Prayageshwar is in the centre. Those devotees unable visit Prayag get a vision of the Deity here.

This Devi is considered the Devi of hell (patal) but obeying the command of Shrivishnu She resides at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Hindus offer a lock and a key to Shri Bandidevi as Her devotees believe that this offering pleases Her.

History of Bandidevi

Locks and keys offered to the door of the temple by Devotees of Devi

To release Shriram and Lakshman from the clutches of the demons Ahiravan and Mahiravan Devi fought with them and defeated them. So Bandidevi is the one who released Shriram and Lakshman from prison. Hence she is offered a lock and a key. She is originally known as ‘Shri Nigad Bhanjani’. Devotees believe that with the blessings of the Devi there is success in legal battles.

(Reference : Website of ‘Benaras Times’)