Mahamaya Dham is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site in the Dhubri district of Assam, India. The temple complex is situated on the bank of the Brahmaputra River, about 20 km from Dhubri town. The complex includes several temples dedicated to various Hindu deities, the most prominent of which is the Mahamaya Temple. The temple is believed to be over 500 years old and dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya, regarded as the patron goddess of the Koch dynasty. The temple is also known as Ma Kamakhya Devalaya, the Temple of Mother Goddess Kamakhya.
Mahamaya Dham is a popular pilgrimage site, and thousands of devotees visit the temple annually. The temple is exceptionally crowded during the Navratri festival, celebrated with great pomp and splendor. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year, from early morning to late evening. Devotees are expected to follow specific rules and regulations while visiting the temple, such as dressing modestly and refraining from consuming non-vegetarian food inside the temple complex.
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Mahamaya Dham History
According to the legends, the temple was built by King Naranarayan, the founder of the Koch dynasty. The king was a devotee of Goddess Mahamaya and had a vision in which the goddess instructed him to build a temple in her honor. The king followed the divine command and built the temple, which soon became a popular pilgrimage site for devotees from far and wide.
The Mahamaya Temple is renowned for its unique architecture, blends traditional Hindu and Islamic styles. The temple has a domed roof and minarets, which are features of Islamic architecture, while the carvings and sculptures on the temple walls depict scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple complex also has a large prayer hall where devotees can offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the goddess.
Apart from the Mahamaya Temple, the temple complex has several smaller temples dedicated to various Hindu deities. These include temples of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman, among others. The complex also has a sacred pond, known as the Mahamaya Sagar, which is believed to have healing properties.
Mahamaya Dham Important Shrines
Mahamaya Dham has many important shrines, but the main temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya. The temple houses magnificent idols of many deities, including a tall idol of Goddess Kali and one of Hanuman. The Mahamaya Snaanghat Temple is another place of worship connected to the Mahamaya Goddess and is just a few kilometers from Mahamaya Dham. According to popular belief, it is where the great goddess Mahamaya used to take a bath, and it is considered very sacred. Pilgrims often visit both the Mahamaya Dham and Mahamaya Snaanghat Temples during their visit.
Significance of the Temple
Mahamaya Dham is considered an important pilgrimage site by many Hindus. It is believed that Goddess Mahamaya is the protector of the Dhubri district, and her blessings ensure the safety and well-being of the people living in the area. The temple has a rich history and has been a place of worship for centuries. It is also said that the temple was built at the place where Goddess Mahamaya appeared to a devotee in a dream and asked him to construct the temple.
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Mahamaya Dham Temple Location
Address: Mahamaya Parbatjhora Road, Bogribari, Assam 783349, India
Weather and Time to Visit
Time: Temple was open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The ideal time to visit Mahamaya Dham is during the time of Durga Puja, which usually falls in the month of October. The temple is beautifully decorated during this time, and devotees from all over the country come to pay their respects to the goddess. Another good time to visit the temple is during the month of January, as the priests of Mahamaya Snaanghat Temple perform a Shakti Yaga during this time. The weather during these months is pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the temple and the surrounding areas.
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Rules
When visiting Mahamaya Dham, there are certain rules that visitors need to follow. Dress appropriately and modestly, covering your head and removing your shoes before entering the temple premises, and being respectful and maintaining silence while inside the temple is also essential. Photography is allowed, but visitors are requested not to touch or damage any of the idols or structures within the temple.
In conclusion, Mahamaya Dham is an important Hindu pilgrimage site in the Dhubri district of Assam. The temple complex, particularly the Mahamaya Temple, is renowned for its unique architecture and is dedicated to Goddess Mahamaya, regarded as the patron goddess of the Koch dynasty. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year, and devotees can seek the blessings of the goddess and offer their prayers in the peaceful surroundings of the temple complex.
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