Maa Chintpurni Temple, Una, Himachal Pradesh: A Sacred Abode of the Divine Mother
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Introduction
Nestled in the serene hills of Una district, Himachal Pradesh, Maa Chintpurni Temple stands as one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in northern India. Renowned for its spiritual significance, the temple draws millions of devotees each year, all seeking solace and blessings from the goddess who is believed to remove worries and grant wishes.
The Deity: Maa Chintpurni (Chhinnamastika Devi)
The temple is dedicated to Maa Chintpurni, also known as Chhinnamastika Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga and Kali1236. The name "Chintpurni" translates to "the remover of worries," reflecting the belief that the goddess relieves her devotees of their troubles. The deity is worshipped in the form of a headless idol (Pindi), symbolizing self-sacrifice and the transcendence of the material world567. Chhinnamastika, meaning "the severed-headed one," represents the liberation of the soul from worldly attachments6.
Location and Accessibility
The temple is located in Chintpurni village, Amb Tehsil, Una district, Himachal Pradesh, at an elevation of approximately 977 meters (3,200 feet). It lies about 40 km north of Una and is well-connected by road, rail, and nearby airports, making it accessible for pilgrims from across India. The temple sits atop a hill in the Sola Singhi range, surrounded by the lush greenery of the Shivalik foothills and offering panoramic views of the western Himalayas.
To reach the sanctum, visitors ascend a series of steps, rewarded by both the spiritual atmosphere and the scenic beauty enveloping the temple.
Historical Significance
Origins and Legends
The origins of the temple are steeped in devotion and myth. According to legend, the temple was established about 12 generations ago (some sources mention 26 generations) by Pandit Mai Das, a devout Brahmin from the princely state of Patiala, in the village of Chhaproh156. Guided by divine visions, Mai Das chose this hilltop location to honor the goddess. His descendants continue to serve as the temple’s priests to this day15.
Shakti Peeth and Mythological Roots
Maa Chintpurni Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, sacred sites where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen during Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance of grief. According to tradition, Sati’s feet (charan) are said to have fallen at this spot, making it a place of immense spiritual energy and importance. The temple is also closely associated with the story of Chhinnamastika Devi, who embodies both self-sacrifice and the power to grant liberation.
