Chhoti Patan Devi Temple — Attraction in Bihar

During my recent visit to Patna, I had the opportunity to explore the Chhoti Patan Devi Temple, a site steeped in history and religious significance. Located in the Chowk area of Patna City, this temple is considered one of the 51 Siddha Shakti Pithas, where, according to Puranic legends, the ‘right thigh’ of Goddess Sati fell when Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut her corpse. 

The temple complex, though not vast, exudes a serene and spiritual ambiance. The main sanctum houses the idols of Goddess Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati, all intricately carved in black stone and adorned with traditional attire. These deities are believed to protect the city and its inhabitants, and their presence is deeply felt within the temple premises.

Historically, Chhoti Patan Devi was once considered the primary presiding deity of Patna, a status that has evolved over time. The current structure is believed to have been established by Man Singh, a general of Emperor Akbar, during the 16th-17th century, although remnants within the temple suggest the existence of an earlier medieval shrine dating back to the 9th-11th century. 

One of the most captivating aspects of my visit was learning about the temple’s association with the city’s name. It is widely believed that ‘Patna’ derives from ‘Patan Devi,’ highlighting the temple’s integral role in the region’s cultural and spiritual identity. 

The temple is particularly vibrant during festivals like Vijayadashmi and Durga Puja, when devotees flock in large numbers to offer prayers and seek blessings. During my visit, I observed the meticulous daily rituals performed by the priests, including the bathing of deities, offering of prasad, and aarti accompanied by the rhythmic ringing of bells, all of which enhanced the spiritual atmosphere.

In conclusion, my experience at Chhoti Patan Devi Temple was both enlightening and spiritually fulfilling. The temple’s rich history, coupled with its religious significance, offers visitors a profound connection to the divine and a deeper understanding of Patna’s...

This temple is situated in the Chowk area of Patna City and once was considered as the main presiding deity of Patna. Over the years it has slipped to the second position of eminence, after the Bari Patan Devi temple, as city’s presiding deity, with epithet ‘Choti’ (smaller) to the more popular one, the Bari (bigger) Patan Devi. But a historian called Buchanan was very specific in stating that it was this very temple (Choti Patan Devi) which held the primary position as the city’s presiding deity during 18th and early 19th century. According to the Hindu mythology, once Prajapati Daksha celebrated Brihaspati Yajna and had invited every god to his Yajna but left out Shiva, his own son-in-law. Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva, on learning that her husband had not been invited to her father’s Yajna, went to her father’s home. When Sati found no seat allotted to her husband there, she felt mortified and put an end to her life. Lord Shiva at once came to know of this and in his great anger and sorrow took her dead body on his shoulder and began to perform tandava dance around the Triloka (three worlds). The Gods were horror-struck and requested Lord Vishnu to intervene. Vishnu cleverly followed the dancing Shiva and started cutting the dead body of Sati to pieces with his Chakra. Wherever the major limbs of the body of Sati fell the places became Mahapithas. The places where the minor limbs fell came to be known as Upapithas. There is a tradition fondly believed that some portion of the right thigh of Devi Sati fell in Magadh and it is said that the part of the body of Sati fell in both Maharajganj and Chowk areas in Old Patna city. At these places, the Badi Patan Devi temple and the Chhoti Patan Devi...

Chhoti Patan Devi Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in Bihar, India. Situated in the small town of Patan near Gaya, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, also known as Chhoti Patan Devi. The temple holds immense religious significance and attracts devotees from various parts of the country. Its history dates back to ancient times, and it is believed to have been established during the Gupta period. The architecture of Chhoti Patan Devi Temple is captivating, showcasing a blend of traditional and regional styles. The intricate carvings and vibrant colors of the temple's facade add to its charm and sacred ambiance. The primary deity worshipped here is Goddess Durga in her fierce form, symbolizing strength and power. The temple hosts various festivals throughout the year, with Navratri being one of the most prominent celebrations. During this time, the temple is adorned with lights and decorations, and devotees flock to offer prayers and seek blessings. Legend has it that the temple was built on the spot where the right thigh of Goddess Sati fell after her body was dismembered by Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra. This mythological significance adds to the temple's holiness and draws pilgrims seeking spiritual solace and blessings. Visiting Chhoti Patan Devi Temple is a soul-stirring experience, as it offers a sense of serenity and devotion. The tranquil surroundings and the devotees' fervent chants create a spiritual atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits this...