KASI - VISALAKSHMI MANDIR

It is one of the Saktisthalas forming an integral part of the Ashtadasa Sakti-Peethas. It is included in the seven yatrasthalas of eternal importance. It is preferred for Vanaprasthasram-spending the last days of life and Kshetrasanya - pledging one's presence till death and it is the Royal palace of Lord Siva with the three worlds forming into his dear most city. The Lord's shrine contains many niches for the most adorable deities like Kedareswar, Rudra Ganapathy, Bhairava, Dandapani, Dura, besides the vast temples for Mother Annapurneswari and Visalakshmi. Among several festivals celebrated periodically to the Lord, the Saptarishi puja takes precedence over others. It is then the sacred linga is adorned with Nagabharanam after abhisheka ritual - a sight that can never be erased from mind. The Visalakshmi temple is built in the Nagara architectural style and the icon dressed in north Indian costumes looks majestic and her gestures are full of compassion. The temple lies nearly two furlongs off Viswanatha mandir. The reason is quite fascinating and teaches that arrogance will be met with due punishment.

According to legend once Mother Visalakshi casually complained that she resents the devotees touching Sivalinga in the garbhagriha. Infuriated her with insolent remark and immature behaviour, He cursed to be far off from her mandir. Hence the location of her temple here. Later she begged pardon from her lord with streaming eyes. Pitying her miserable plight, he assured that all his devotees would visit her shrine and pay homage equally and with that alone the pilgrimage reaches completion and a part of merit gained by their bhakti would be shared to her also. Would arrogance ever go Scot free?

There are very many Saktishthalas in this ancient holy place Yatris normally visit major ones on visit to this holy thirtha kshetra Let us visit one after from Annapurna mandir first.

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