Danteshwari Temple is the temple dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari and is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, shrines of Shakti, the divine feminine, spread across India.
Shrine’s History
Jai Maa Danteshwari temple is named after the goddess Danteshwari, who is worshipped as an incarnation of Shakti and the temple is considered to be one among the 52 sacred Shakti Peethas. It is also known as Tarlapal and Dantawali during pre-historic days, which could be known after going through the stone carvings found in the district. The Danteshwari temple is believed to have been built in the 14th century by the Chalukyas of the South. The temple is regarded as the spot where the ‘Daanth’ of Sati had fallen during the episode when all the Shakti shrines were created in the Satya Yuga. Since then Goddess Danteshwari has been regarded as the Kuldevi of the erstwhile as well as current Bastar region.
Legends Associated with This Shrine
It is believed that a tooth of Sati had fallen here and Danteshwari Shakti Peetha was established. According to the ancient legend, Goddess Sati committed self-immolation in the fire pit of yagna kund, due to an insult committed by her father Daksha towards her consort Lord Shiva during the Yaga. Raged by the death of Sati, Lord Shiva destroyed the Yaga of Daksha and with the body of Sati in his hands started to do ‘Taandav’.Lord Vishnu cut the dead body of Goddess Sati with his Sudarshan to free Lord Shiva from the grief caused by her death. Parts of the dead body of Goddess Sati were scattered to fifty-two different places, which were consecrated as Shakti Pithas.
Architectural Relevance of This Shrine
The Danteshwari temple was built in the 14th Century by the Chalukya kings in South Indian style of temple architecture. The idol of Danteshwari Mai is chiseled out of black stone. The temple is divided into four parts such as Garbh Griha, Maha Mandap, Mukhya Mandap and Sabha Mandap. Garbha Griha and Maha Mandap were constructed with stone pieces. There is a Garuda Pillar in front of the entrance of the temple. The temple itself is located in a spacious courtyard surrounded by massive walls. The shikhara is adorned with sculptural finery.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
Non-metered autos, jeeps and regular bus services are offered by CSRTC from all parts of Dantewada to help you reach Jai Maa Danteshwari Mandir.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Dantewada Railway Station
By Air
The nearest airport is at Raipur.
Events Celebrated at This Shrine
Dussehra festival
