Famed Prabhas Shaktipeeth Temple, also known as Chandrabhaga Devi Shakti Peeth Temple is one of the 51 revered Shakti temples and honors Goddess Sati in her form of Chandrabhaga. This remarkable temple can be found near Veraval within Junagarh district, Gujarat. It stands at the spot where Udara (Stomach) from goddess Sati fell on Earth. As an act of worship to this divine site, Maa Chandrabhaga (the Moon Goddess) and Lord Shiva are venerated here as Vakratunda (one with a curved body). Henceforth its name was taken after the deity worshipped – Chandra Bhagha Devi – for it marks their presence since ancient times.
Every year, the Hindu devotees flock to this region of India in monumental numbers due to its renowned temple. Praying here is believed to absolve you from any past misdeeds. Located nearby is also the famed Somnath Temple – a must-see for all visitors!
Although there is no longer a Temple at this location, it was once the home of an ancient and holy Devi shrine. This revered site included the confluence of three rivers: Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati. The current structure resembles what used to be a sub-shrine that has since been destroyed over time. Out of the 51 Shakti Peetas worldwide, four are identified as Adi Shaktipeeths while 18 are known as Maha Shakti Peethas.
With various opinions about the birthplace of Prabhas Shaktipeeth, the Amba Mata temple atop Girnar mountain in Junagadh’s Veraval town is venerated as such by locals. The historic and pious city of Junagadh lies 600 m below on Girnar mountain’s lower slopes. It has been a hub for many religious sites that have been around since ancient times.
Built in four steps with sandalwood and stone by Bhimdev, the temple of Prabhas Patan (Somnath) stands as an amazing testament to ancient art and culture. Located at the meeting point of three mythological rivers – Saraswati, Hiranya, and Kapila – it is believed that this holy place houses a divine Shivalinga known as Kalabhairava. Additionally, due to its association with Chandra Dev’s worship of Lord Shiva on this sacred land, it has also come to be referred to as Somnath or “The Abode Of The Lord”. On this world famous temple, religious euphoria of devotees is seen.
During the nine days of Navratri, devout followers honor goddess with fasting and special rituals offered in an energized temple atmosphere. Men and women come together to revel in cultural activities such as Dandiya dancing. Additionally, individuals seeking blessings flock to Somnath Temple during Karthika month and Shivratri for a visit to Prabhas Temple.
Brahma wanted to create the universe, so he performed a yajna in order to please Shakti and Shiva. As a result, Goddess Shakti split from Shiva and aided Brahma with his mission. Thusly, Daksha – Brahma’s son – conducted various yajnas in an attempt to acquire Shakti as his daughter (in the form of Sati). Nevertheless, when Daksha realized that Sati had married Lord Shiva against his will; he withheld inviting them both to another one of his yagnas. Though initially hesitant, upon hearing Sati’s pleas for her father’s presence at the event; Shiva granted her wish and allowed their attendance at Dakshas’ Yagna ceremony. Daksha insulted Shiva, and Sati could not tolerate her father’s lack of respect towards her husband; thus she immolated herself. As a result of this calamity, Veerabhadra rose from the wrathful form of Shiva to destruct Daksha’s yagna. In his grief-stricken state, Lord Shiva walked through Aryavartha with Sati in his arms as he expressed emotional anguish through an impassioned dance called Tandav – a celestial demonstration of destruction. Lord Vishu, with the aim of stopping the Tandav, used his Sudarshana Chakra, which cut through the Sati’s corpse. The parts of Sati body fell at varroas spots all through the Indian and neighboring country and these Sacred sites came to be called Shakti Peethas .
By Air
Junagarh does not have an airport of its own, however there are both national and international airports nearby that can provide assistance. Once you arrive at the airport, buses and taxis will be readily available to take you to your destination – Chandrabhaga temple.
By Rail
For those looking to visit the temple, Veraval Junction railway station is your best port of call. From there, you can easily access private buses or taxis for further transport.
By Road
The famous Shakti Peeth Prabhas is situated near Ahmedabad which is well connected to the major cities across the country. Various buses and taxi services are easily available to the temple all over the country.
