Bhadrakali Kurukshetra: History, Mythology, Travel Guide & Festivals

At the heart of Kurukshetra — the legendary battlefield of righteousness — stands Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Temple, a shrine where mythology and divinity converge. Revered as one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas, this ancient temple marks the spot where the right ankle of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen, sanctifying the land with her cosmic energy.

The Shaktipeeth Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Mandir is also called “Savitri Peeth,” “Devi Peeth,” “Kalika Peeth,” and “Aadi Peeth”.

Mythology: The Power of Shakti in Kurukshetra

According to the Hindu Puranas, Sati, the daughter of Prajapati Daksha, married Shiva against her father’s wishes. Daksha performed a grand yajna (sacrifice) but did not invite Sati or Shiva. Even so, Sati went to the yajna, where Daksha ignored her and insulted Shiva. Unable to bear the insult, Sati offered herself into the fire. Filled with grief, Shiva wandered the universe carrying her half-burnt body. At last, Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut her body into 51 parts, which fell on different places across the earth. Each of these places became a Shakti Peeth. (Sources: Incredible India | haryanatourism.gov.in)

Devotees believe that Maa Sati’s right ankle fell at the Shaktipeeth Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Mandir in Kurukshetra.

Moreover, lore suggests the Mundan ceremony of Krishna and Balarama took place right here-a tradition locals cherish to this day.

You may also explore four Adi Shaktipeethas: Vimala, Tara Tarini, Kamakhya and Kalighat.

Historical Background of Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Kurukshetra

Historically, Kurukshetra holds deep significance as the battlefield of the Mahabharata, but Bhadrakali adds another layer of sanctity. It is believed that the Pandavas and Lord Krishna prayed here before the war and returned victorious to offer miniature horses as thanks.

Although no ancient inscriptions from Kurukshetra directly mention the Devikoop shrine, the Bhadrakali Kalpam inscriptions found by the Archaeological Survey of India at Chebrolu in Andhra Pradesh (dating to the 2nd century CE) confirm that Bhadrakali worship existed in early South Asian religions. These findings show that the Bhadrakali cult was already well established during the Satavahana period (2nd century CE), long before it appeared in medieval records of northern India.

Historical traditions from Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and local folk literature describe the temple as Savitri Peeth or Aadi Peeth. This title appears in regional copper-plate inscriptions and in the oral hymns sung by local Brahmin communities. Modern theological studies on the Bhakti Sampradaya of Bhadrakali trace its devotional roots to the medieval Shaiva–Shakta sects that thrived around Thanesar and Sthaneshwar during the Gupta and post-Gupta periods.

These local traditions portray Bhadrakali as both a protective Kula Devi (family goddess) and an Aadi Shakti form of Durga. They highlight her dual nature — fierce yet auspicious — as “Bhadra-Kali,” the benevolent form of Kali.

Architecture of Bhadrakali Kurukshetra

The temple complex, often referred to as Savitri Peeth, Kalika Peeth, or Aadi Peeth, reflects classical North Indian temple architecture, featuring a sanctum, multiple domes, and symbolic carvings.

• The temple has two sanctum sanctorums: one dedicated to Shri Devikoop (site of Sati’s fallen ankle) and another to Maa Bhadrakali, representing the fierce and protective aspect of the goddess.
• A giant white marble lotus at the entrance marks the spot where the goddess’s foot imprint is believed to reside.
• Inside are idols of Maa Saraswati, Maa Lakshmi, Lord Shiva-Parvati, Lord Krishna-Virat Swaroop, Hanuman Ji, and others.
• The temple holds a grand 108-foot dome for Maa Bhadrakali, flanked by two 71-foot domes for Saraswati and Lakshmi, signifying the Tridevi (three goddesses) tradition.

A Chakravyuh (circular labyrinth) stands out as a key feature, reminding visitors of the Mahabharata story, though its exact architectural purpose remains unclear.

Walking inside, the tall pyramid-shaped shikharas soar above. My breath caught at the marble lotus settled in the ancient well-so delicate yet so sacred. Dozens of miniature clay and metal horses rest-a silent chorus of fulfilled vows.

Inside the complex, smaller shrines dedicated to the goddess’s attendants, like Ganesha and Hanuman, add to the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.

Geographical Location of Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Kurukshetra

Settled on Jhansa Road in Thanesar, Kurukshetra, the temple lies amid a town known as Dharmakshetra. Its serene surroundings include Brahma Sarovar and Jyotisar, rich in spiritual and cultural resonance.

Here’s a quick overview:

How to Reach Bhadrakali Kurukshetra

By Air

Chandigarh International Airport is the nearest, approximately 97.5 km away.

By Rail

Nearest Railway Station Kurukshetra Junction lies within 2 to 3 km.

By Road

Well-connected via bus and taxi from Chandigarh or nearby towns.

Where to Stay

Local dharamshalas offer budget-friendly options; others like the Gita Bhawan Trust also provide modest yet peaceful stays. Few top-rated hotels are listed below.

Hotel Pearl Marc
Set on a busy city street, this relaxed hotel is 2 km from Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb, the sacred Brahma Sarovar water pool, and Thanesar City rail station.

Super Townhouse formerly Krishna Mahal
Khasra No 9, Kita -1, Brahma Sarovar, opposite Main Gate, Railway Station Area, Thanesar, Kurukshetra, Haryana.

Hotel Celestial by 4KD Hotels
DD colony, Kurukshetra, Haryana. Great location overall for sightseeing, recreation, dining and getting around.

Best Time to Visit Bhadrakali Kurukshetra

To enjoy mild weather and clear skies, plan your trip between September and February. Summer can be harsh, with soaring daytime temperatures-best avoided for a more comfortable experience.

Temple Timings

1 March to 15 November: 5:30 am to 8:00 pm

16 November to 28 February: 6 am to 7:30 pm

Festivals of Bhadrakali Kurukshetra

Major festivals like Navratri, Durga Puja, and Maha Shivratri draw thousands of pilgrims. Rituals include horse offerings, Akhand Jyoti (eternal flame), and Hawan Yagya (fire rituals). Devotees perform Mundan ceremonies for their children, believing it brings divine protection from Maa Bhadrakali’s blessings. The atmosphere during Navratri is particularly vibrant, as the temple is illuminated and adorned with flowers.

There’s also a monthly Hawan on the first Saturday. Women tie a Rakhi to the deity on Raksha Bandhan-devotion woven in tradition.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance of Kurukshetra

Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Temple serves as a living link between the Shakti tradition and the Mahabharata’s moral narrative. It stands among the 51 Shakti Peethas of India, symbolizing divine femininity’s cosmic power. The temple epitomizes Kurukshetra’s identity as a “Dharmakshetra” — a land sanctified by divine actions, moral reflection, and goddess worship.

In essence, Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali of Kurukshetra unites mythology, epic heritage, and enduring faith — a sacred epicenter where the feminine divine, cosmic legend, and historical devotion converge.

Nearby Attractions

Brahma Sarovar

Brahma Sarovar is a large, ancient water tank located in Kurukshetra, Haryana, India. It is considered a sacred site in Hinduism, with legends linking it to Lord Brahma and the creation of the universe. The sarovar is known for its size, spiritual significance, and the serene atmosphere it offers.

Jyotisar

Jyotisar, on the bank of Jyotisar Sarovar wetland, is a Hindu pilgrimage site in the city of Kurukshetra in Haryana state of India. According to Hindu tradition, here Krishna delivered the sermon of Bhagavad Gita to to his wavering friend Arjuna.

Sannihit Sarovar

Sannihit Sarovar is a sacred water reservoir located in Kurukshetra, Haryana, India. It is believed to be the meeting point of seven sacred Sarasvatis and is considered a site of great religious significance. Hindu rituals, including Pind Daan for the departed, are frequently performed here.

Conclusion

Bhadrakali Kurukshetra is more than a temple; it’s a tapestry of myth, devotion, and living tradition. From the marble lotus to the chatter of worshippers and echoing bells-every corner radiates connection. My journey from Kolkata wasn’t merely physical-it was a pilgrimage of mind, soul, and curiosity.

Have you ever had a spiritual experience that changed your perspective? Share it below-I’d love to hear your story. If you enjoyed this glimpse of journey, do explore more in my other blogs.

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