Names & Legend
Shakti Peeths are found all over the subcontinent, and Patna, the capital of Bihar, is no exception. Here the Goddess is worshipped as Patan Devi, the guardian goddess of the city, and many believe that the name “Patna” itself comes from her.
Sati gave up her life when her father Daksha insulted Lord Shiva at his yagna. As Shiva carried her body in grief, Lord Vishnu divided it with his Sudarshan Chakra, and Sati’s right thigh is believed to have fallen at Patna.
Location
The temple of Badi Patan Devi stands in the Maharajganj locality of old Patna (Patna City), about 10 km east of Patna Junction. Patna was once the great city of Pataliputra, the capital of the kingdom of Magadha and of the Maurya and Gupta empires – one of the most important cities of ancient India.
The Goddess & Bhairava
The Goddess is worshipped as Sarvanandkari, “she who gives joy to all”, and Lord Shiva as Bhairava is called Vyomkesh, “the one whose hair is the sky”. The temple honours not only one form of the Goddess: black-stone images of Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati are worshipped together, along with a shrine of Bhairava.
Badi & Choti Patan Devi
Patna has two famous temples of the Goddess. Besides the Badi (elder) Patan Devi temple, visitors also go to the Choti (younger) Patan Devi temple in the same part of the city. Tradition holds that the Goddess has protected the city since ancient times, and the two temples together are seen as the guardians of Patna. Devotees believe that the Mother here fulfils the wishes of everyone who comes with a pure heart.
Festivals & Worship
Navaratri, especially the Chaitra and Sharad Navaratri, is the most important time, when thousands of devotees queue for darshan and special pujas are held through the night. Durga Puja, Kali Puja and Chhath – Bihar’s great festival of the Sun – are also celebrated with joy in the city.
Visiting Tips
The lanes of old Patna can be crowded, so it is easiest to reach the temple by auto-rickshaw. Dress modestly, remove footwear before entering the shrine, and follow the instructions of the priests. Simple offerings such as flowers, fruit, vermilion, a red chunri and incense are traditional, and it is good practice to buy them from the stalls near the temple, which also supports local families.
How to Reach & Nearby Places
Patna Junction is well connected by rail with the whole country, and the temple is closer still to Patna Sahib and Gulzarbagh stations. Jay Prakash Narayan Airport has flights from major cities. While in Patna City, pilgrims also visit Takht Sri Patna Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, and the ghats of the Ganga. The best time to visit is from October to March.