Sharda Devi Temple, Satna

Sharda Devi Temple

Sharda Devi Temple, popularly known as Maihar Devi Temple, is situated atop Trikuta Hill in Satna district, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Goddess Sati, making it an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

शारदा शारदांभोज वदना वदनाम्बुजे ।
सर्वदा सर्वदास्माकं सन्निधिं सन्निधिं क्रियात् ॥

― Sharda Devi Temple

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sharda (an aspect of Saraswati/Parvati) and attracts devotees from across India.

Mythological Significance & History

The temple dates back to 502 AD, when Nupula Deva established idols of Goddess Sharda and Lord Narasimha.
According to mythology, it is believed that the necklace (har) of Goddess Sati fell here, hence the place was named “Maihar” (Mai = Mother, Har = necklace).
The legendary warriors Alha and Udal, great devotees of Maa Sharda, are said to have discovered the temple. Alha performed penance here for 12 years and received the blessing of immortality. Locals believe Alha still visits the goddess before dawn.

Significance of the Temple

As a Shakti Peetha, the temple is considered extremely powerful. Devotees believe worshipping here grants blessings in knowledge, prosperity, and spiritual strength.
It is a major pilgrimage during Navratri and Ram Navami, when thousands of devotees visit the temple.
A unique belief is that after the temple is closed at night, unseen divine forces continue worship inside, and the deity is found adorned in the morning.