The Jwala Devi Temple is a sacred abode for devotees of Shakti, as it is believed to be one of the 51 revered Shakti Peethas. Located in the town of Shakti Nagar, Sonbhadra District, Uttar Pradesh India; this temple holds an auspicious significance and stands tall as a symbol of holiness amongst those who practice Hinduism.
According to legend, the spectacular temple of Raja Udit Narayan Singh in Gaharwal Village is said to be over 1000 years old. Its current iteration, however, was built much more recently.
The reigning deity of the temple is referred to as Jwala Ji. Her venerated figure resides in a hallowed chamber, alongside numerous other statues and idols, including a unique black stone sculpture which was found originally within an ancient temple. Additionally, just one kilometer away lies the mystical Jwalamukhi cave – it used to have three entrances until recently when water from a subterranean spring filled up its interiors so that only one entryway remains today.
For the past 12 generations, the daily Puja of this temple has been steered by a hand-picked family of twelve devoted priests. To this day, they continue to reverently carry out their sacred duties with care and dedication.
It is believed that people offer their tongue as offerings here after their wishes are fulfilled.
The Temple is located at about 1.5 Kms from Shakti Nagar Railway Station, 2 Kms from Shakti Nagar Bus Stand, 52 Kms from Renukoot, 118 Kms from Robertsganj, 203 Kms from Varanasi, 221 Kms from Varanasi Airport and 441 Kms from Lucknow. Shakti Nagar is fully connected by road to various cities through NH 75, SH 5A and is also connected directly via Trains like: Triveni Express (Bareilly-Shakti Nagar), Singrauli-Varanasi Intercity (Singrauli to Varanasi), Singrauli-Jabalpur Intercity (Singrauli to Jabalpur) and Shakti Nagar Passenger (Shakti Nagar-Chopan).
