Shakambhari, also known as Shatakshi, is a revered goddess of nourishment in Hinduism. Recognized as an incarnation of Mahadevi, she is identified with both Lakshmi and Durga, embodying the nurturing and protective aspects of these deities. Shakambhari is celebrated for her role in providing sustenance and relief during times of famine and drought, making her a significant figure in Hindu mythology.

Etymology

The name Shakambhari is deeply symbolic, derived from the Sanskrit words “saka” (शाक), meaning ‘vegetable’ or ‘vegan food,’ and “bhari” (भरी), meaning ‘holder,’ ‘bearer,’ or ‘wearer.’ The root word “bhṛ” (भृ) means ‘to bear,’ ‘to wear,’ or ‘to nourish.’ Thus, Shakambhari means ‘she who bears vegetables,’ emphasizing her role as the provider of plant-based nourishment. This etymology underscores her connection to the earth and its produce, highlighting her significance as a goddess who ensures the sustenance and well-being of all living beings.

The Legend of Shakambhari

The Asura Durgamasura’s Deprivation

The legend of Shakambhari is a powerful narrative of divine intervention in response to a period of extreme hardship. It begins with the malevolent asura Durgamasura, who sought to plunge the earth into drought and scarcity. By causing the sages to forget the Vedas, Durgamasura disrupted the natural order, leading to a century of suffering on earth. Without the knowledge and rituals contained in the Vedas, the sages were powerless to restore balance and harmony to the world.

The Appearance of Shakambhari

In their desperation, the sages finally remembered the goddess Lakshmi, who is often invoked in times of need. They extolled her virtues and chanted hymns in her praise, appealing for her intervention. Responding to their pleas, Lakshmi appeared in a dark-hued blue form, with a hundred eyes, symbolizing her all-seeing nature and deep compassion.

When the sages extolled and chanted the hymns of Ishvari, the four-handed goddess appeared bearing a lotus, arrows, a great bow, and vegetables, fruits, flowers, and roots. This form of the goddess, bearing weapons as well as symbols of nourishment, signifies her dual role as both a protector and a provider.

According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana (Srimad Devi Bhagavatam), upon seeing the misery of the people, Shakambhari shed incessant tears from her hundred eyes. These tears streamed into rivers, providing much-needed water to the parched earth. She also offered various fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, thereby restoring the health and strength of the people. This act of divine benevolence not only alleviated the immediate suffering but also restored the natural balance of the world.

Shakambhari Mata: The Divine Mother

Shakambhari Mata is a personification of Goddess Durga and is revered as “The Bearer of the Greens.” As a divine mother, she embodies the nurturing and sustaining aspects of nature, providing food and nourishment to the hungry. She is also known by other names such as Vanashankari, Banashankari, Banadevi, Shankari, and Satakshi, each reflecting different aspects of her persona and attributes.

• Vanashankari/Banashankari/Banadevi: These names highlight her connection to forests (vana/ban), emphasizing her role as the goddess of vegetation and wildlife.

• Shankari: This name underscores her association with Shankara (another name for Shiva), highlighting her protective and nurturing qualities.

• Satakshi: This name, meaning ‘hundred-eyed,’ refers to her all-seeing nature and her compassionate vigilance over the world.

The Role of Shakambhari in Hindu Mythology

Shakambhari’s story is not just a tale of divine intervention; it also emphasizes the importance of nature and the divine in sustaining life. Her role as a provider of sustenance highlights the interconnectedness of all life forms and the dependence of humanity on the natural world. By providing food and medicinal plants, Shakambhari ensures the health and well-being of both humans and animals, reinforcing the idea that nourishment and healing are divine acts of compassion.

Temples Dedicated to Shakambhari

Numerous temples across India are dedicated to Shakambhari Devi, serving as centers of devotion and worship. These temples not only honor her as a goddess of nourishment but also serve as places where devotees seek her blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being.

Shakambhari Temple in Badami, Karnataka

One of the main temples dedicated to Shakambhari is located in Badami, Karnataka. This ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over the country. The temple’s architecture and surroundings reflect the deep cultural and spiritual heritage associated with Shakambhari worship.

Shakambhari Temple in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh

Another prominent temple is located in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, situated among the picturesque mountain ranges. This temple is one of the most visited shrines after Vaishno Devi, drawing countless devotees who come to seek the goddess’s blessings. The temple’s serene location amidst nature underscores Shakambhari’s connection to the natural world.

Shakambhari Temple in Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan

A major temple dedicated to Shakambhari is also located near Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan. This temple is situated near a vast expanse of dry salt lake, symbolizing the transformation from barrenness to abundance that Shakambhari represents. The temple is a significant site for devotees, especially during the Navaratri festival.

Shakambhari and Navaratri

Shakambhari is especially worshipped during the Navaratri festival, a nine-night celebration dedicated to the nine forms of Durga. She is honored as the ninth deity among these nine forms, symbolizing the culmination of the festival with a focus on nourishment and sustenance. During Navaratri, devotees celebrate her by performing rituals, chanting hymns, and offering fruits and vegetables, acknowledging her role as the divine provider.

Conclusion

Shakambhari, the goddess of nourishment, plays a vital role in Hindu mythology as a provider of sustenance and healing. Her story emphasizes the importance of nature and the divine in sustaining life. By intervening during times of drought and famine, she restores balance and harmony to the world, ensuring the well-being of all living beings. The temples dedicated to her serve as centers of devotion, attracting countless devotees who seek her blessings for nourishment and prosperity. Shakambhari’s enduring legacy highlights the deep connection between humanity and the natural world, reminding us of the divine compassion that sustains all life.