Zyeshtha Devi Temple | Zeathyar Shrine | Zeashta Mata : A Sacred abode of Faith and Peace.

 Zyeshtha Devi Temple | Zeathyar Shrine  | Zeashta Mata  :  A Sacred abode of Faith and Peace.

Zyeshtha Devi Temple, a holy Hindu Shrine , an abode of peace and faith is a place of worship for Hindus since ancient times. This sacred shrine is nestled amidst breathtaking Zabarwan Hills in the outskirts of Srinagar City, the summer capital of Union terrirotiry of Jammu and Kashmir, India. This ancient Hindu Temple has been a beacon of spiritual devotion for Kashmiri Pandits since immemorial and accordingly symbolises the region's rich culture, heritage and communal harmony.

 History  :  

The zyeshtha Devi or Zeathyar Shrine located in Srinagar, Kashmir is a revered Hindu Shrine dedicated to Goddess Zeashta, a form of Shakti and its history dates back to the ancient times, originally established as the Jyeshtaruda Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. But over the time, it evolved into a prominent center for Shakti specially as Jyestha or Zeashta Devi.

It is worth to mention here that ancient texts such as the Nilamata Puran has mentioned about this sacred site as Zeethyar, confirming it's place among the oldest and most revered pilgrimage places of Kashmir.  This holy shrine has remained a revered places of worship for saints, devotees, scholars and spiritual people through out centuries who have climbed these sacred heights to worship mother Goddess for seeking enlightenment and blessings. It is also important to say here that this temple has been a sacred site for kashmiri Pandits since ancient times.

According to legend, the temple is linked to the cosmic event of Samundra Manthan where Goddess Zeastha was created by Lord Shiva to vanquish Asuras and resume Goddess Lakshmi. Therefore after annihilation of the demon, mother Zyeshtha choose to seat herself upon the sacred spring that lies within the temple complex. It is hence because of this divine event, the site was consecrated for eternity.

The devotees till this day consider the crystal clear waters of the holy Spring as a symbol of celestial power and believe it as a mere sight that bestows screnity and spiritual energy to the devotees and her followers.

 Religious Significance : 

The Zyeshtha Devi Temple or Zeathyar Shrine possesses immense religious significance and it is considered to be a pious place where Goddess Zyeshtha Devi was created by Lord Shiva to vanquish Asuras and rescue goddess Laxmi. The beautiful holy temple complex uniquely architectured features a Hawan Shalla, Langar facility, amazing huts and adequate accommodation for visiting pilgrims makes it a vibrant hub for spiritual gathering and celebration through the year.

Jyeth Ghat Pach Panchami : 

It is a significant celebration at the Zeashta Devi Shrine in Srinagar, Kashmir, dedicated to Goddess Zeashta, a powerful form of Shakti. The festival commemorates the divine birth of *Maa Zeashta that falls on ZYETH GAT PACH PANCHIMI* & during  this time, devotees gather in large numbers at the shrine to offer prayers, and the atmosphere is filled with spiritual energy. The festival also features traditional offerings like "Taher" (yellow rice), Kehwa tea, and Kulchas. The  Festival is not just a religious event but also a cultural celebration, showcasing Kashmiri traditions and community spirit. The shrine offers free boarding and lodging for pilgrims during the festival, making it an inclusive and joyous occasion. 

The devotees believe that worshipping at the shrine brings spiritual growth, prosperity, and blessings. The festival is a testament to Kashmir's rich cultural heritage and communal harmony.  On  this auspicious occasion, pilgrims pour in from various parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, Jammu, and other nearby regions. Many devotees also come from outside Kashmir, particularly from Hindu communities across India, to seek blessings at the sacred Zeashta Devi Shrine.

 Conclude : 

The unwavering devotion of Kashmir Pandit community despite being in forceful exodus for last more than thirty seven years have kept it's flame alive by way of visiting this holy shrine of Zeathyar or zyeshtha Devi Temple in large numbers through out the year to perform their religious rituals and seek the blessings of the Goddess. 

It is very important to mention that the role of all the Ex. Presidents &  their team members for preservation, upkeep and development of this holy Shrine from 1990 and particularly after the forecful exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley  has remained  highly commendable in all its forms.

The shrine is currently also  progressing by leaps and bounds by  witnessing  tremendous infratructural developments after 2024 under Zyeshtha Devi Management committee headed by a religious preacher Mr. Ravinder  Kumar Jogi, it's President. The committee is  working hard to restore, preserve and upkeep this historical shrine  to its new heights of glory with utmost dedication and hard work for the comfort and convenience of the devotees.

The present  committee in place  has till now  succeeded in adding up one new Hawan Shalla , community Kitchen, installation of wifi system in the temple  complex and some new projects  are under construction like a big prayer Hall, under construction of new stairs along with the wall stones leading from the main gate to the upper temple and construction four additional  new huts. Over all, it can be expected  that  the team headed by its dedicated President will surely  lead this holy shrine to new heights of development, upkeep as well  facilitate the devotees visiting the shrine in large numbers through out the year with every comfort and convenience in the times to come.

 Courtesy :  

★Jai Mata Di★ 

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