Harsiddhi Temple, Ujjain

Introduction:

This temple occupies a special place in the galaxy of ancient sacred spots of Ujjain. Seated between the idols of Mahalaxmi and Mahasaraswati, the idol of Annapurna is painted in dark vermilion color. The Sri Yantra, the symbol of power or shakti, is also enshrined in the temple.According to the Shiva Purana, when Shiva carried away the burning body of Sati from the sacrificial fire, her elbow dropped at this place. There is an interesting legend in the Skanda Purana about the manner in which the Goddess Chandi acquired the epithet of Harsiddhi. Once when Shiva and Parvati were alone on Mount Kailash, two demons Chand and Prachand tried to force their way in.Shiva called upon Chandi to destroy them which she did. Pleased, Shiva bestowed upon her the epithet of ‘one who vanquishes all’. The temple was reconstructed during the Maratha period and the two pillars adorned with lamps are special features of Maratha art. These lamps lit during Navaratri, present a glorious spectacle. There is an ancient well on the premises, and an artistic pillar adorns the top of it.

Key Features and Legends:

Location:

Situated in Ujjain, it is one of the two Shakti Peethas (sacred places dedicated to Shakti) in Madhya Pradesh. 

Annapurna Idol:

The temple houses an idol of Annapurna, painted in dark vermilion, situated between idols of Mahalaxmi and Mahasaraswati. 

Sri Yantra:

The temple enshrines the Sri Yantra, a symbol of power or Shakti. 

Legend of Sati's Elbow:

According to the Shiva Purana, the temple is the site where Sati's elbow fell when Shiva carried her burning body. 

Legend of Harsiddhi:

The Skanda Purana narrates how Goddess Chandi earned the epithet "Harsiddhi" after Shiva granted it to her for vanquishing demons Chand and Prachand. 

Maratha Reconstruction:

The temple was reconstructed during the Maratha period, and its two lamp-adorned pillars are a hallmark of Maratha art, particularly notable during Navaratri celebrations. 

Ancient Well:

An ancient well on the temple premises is also a notable feature, topped by an artistic pillar.