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Embarking on this spiritual journey during Diwali, each of these temples will serve as a gateway to transcend the ordinary
This Diwali, seek solace in the sacred sanctuaries of India’s most revered temples, where age-old rituals bring the festival’s authentic spirit to life. Here are five temples that offer not only divine power but also a transformative experience, revealing the often overlooked ethereal essence of Diwali. Giresh Kulkarni, Founder, Temple Connect and ITCX (International Temples Convention and EXPO) shares 5 divine temples in India:
- Ram Mandir, Ayodhya, Uttar PradeshThe origin story of Diwali has its roots in Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile. At the heart of this historic city lies the Ram Mandir or Ram Janmabhoomi which stands as the epicentre of India’s most revered saga. During Deepotsav, millions of diyas light up the Sarayu River, as a tribute to light’s triumph over darkness. The powerful aarti at Hanuman Garhi immerses devotees in the Ramayana’s teachings, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. Visiting Ayodhya during Diwali offers a rare chance to experience these ancient traditions, with ideal weather enhancing the allure of this pilgrimage.
- Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple – Kolhapur, MaharashtraThe Mahalaxmi Temple is believed to be the first Shaktipeeth among the 52 in the world. Here, the supreme goddess Mahalaxmi, affectionately known as Ambabai by the locals, is worshipped as the divine Mother. The first day of Diwali, which is Dhanteras, is dedicated to honouring Goddess Laxmi, and the temple comes alive with vibrant celebrations. During this auspicious time, devotees can witness elaborate aartis and ceremonies steeped in ancient customs and rituals unique to Kolhapur. Visitors to the temple during Diwali will find themselves enveloped in spirituality, tradition, and a palpable sense of devotion.
- Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) – Amritsar, PunjabThe Golden Temple Gurudwara, stands as a pinnacle of spiritual significance for Sikhism, revered as one of its holiest sites. While the temple offers a profound experience year-round, visiting during Diwali is particularly special as it marks Bandi Chor Divas—the day Guru Hargobind Ji was released from imprisonment. During this festive time, the Golden Temple includes a special langar and welcomes all to share in the communal meal. The temple is spectacularly illuminated, and the air resonates with devotional hymns and processions enhancing the divine experience.
- Annapurna Devi Temple – Kashi/Varanasi, Uttar PradeshThe Annapurna Devi Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of food and nourishment and a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, is a must-visit during Diwali. During this festive season, a golden idol of the goddess is brought to the temple, where special aartis and pujas are performed with thousands of diyas illuminating the sacred space. Devotees are then blessed with special prasad. The temple typically remains open for extended hours during Diwali. The Annakut festival, also known as Govardhan Puja, is grandly celebrated here, forming part of the five days of Diwali, alongside the divine Kashi Jyotirlinga. Visitors can also witness the breathtaking aarti on the banks of the Ganga, where flickering diyas float gracefully, creating an enchanting atmosphere of divine enlightenment.
- Govardhan Hill – Mathura, Uttar PradeshKnown as Giriraj, Govardhan Hill is a sacred Hindu site in Mathura, deeply intertwined with the saga of Lord Krishna. Devotees perform the Govardhan parikrama, commemorating the moment when Lord Krishna lifted the hill to shield the people of Mathura from devastating rains. Following Diwali, the hill becomes a spiritual sanctuary for Govardhan Puja, a celebration of protection and blessings. During the grand festival of Annakut, devotees seek the divine grace of the hill by offering food as a token of gratitude to Lord Krishna, which is later shared among the community, fostering a spirit of togetherness and devotion.
Embarking on this spiritual journey during Diwali, each of these temples will serve as a gateway to transcend the ordinary. Within these sacred spaces, discover the transformative power of faith and the enduring light of tradition, illuminating your path beyond celebration.