The Annapurna Devi Mandir, also known as Annapurna Mata Mandir, is a well-known Hindu temple in Varanasi, a sacred city in India. This temple is close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and holds significant religious importance in Hinduism. It is dedicated to the goddess Annapurna, a form of the goddess Parvati who symbolizes nourishment.The temple was built in 1729 A.D. by Maratha Peshwa Bajirao I.
According to a myth, there was a time when Lord Shiva referred to food as an illusion, causing Goddess Parvati to become upset. In response, she removed all the food from the Earth, leading to starvation and infertility. To alleviate the suffering of her devotees in Varanasi, the abode of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati reappeared and established a kitchen. She personally prepared and offered food to Lord Shiva, emphasizing the importance of creation and sustenance.
Another myth associated with Annapurna tells of a moment when Goddess Parvathi closed all three eyes of Lord Shiva, plunging the world into darkness. To restore balance, Lord Shiva advised her to distribute food in Varanasi. By doing so, Goddess Parvati regained her fair complexion, and this practice is believed to be followed by devotees.
The temple observes the tradition of offering food to beggars, the poor, and devotees as a form of blessing from the goddess. It is said that Goddess Annapurna is considered the Queen of Varanasi City, while Lord Shiva is regarded as the King. Devotees believe that the goddess does not consume food until all her devotees are provided for.
The temple has various names, and there are hymns like Annapurna Shatnam Stotram and Annapurna Sahastranam Stotram that list 100 and 1000 names of the goddess, respectively. These names are part of the rich tradition of naming deities in the Indian pantheon. Overall, the Annapurna Devi Mandir holds a special place in the hearts of devotees who worship the goddess for nourishment and sustenance.
