Saptashrungi, alternatively known as Saptashringi, stands as a revered Hindu pilgrimage destination located about 60 kilometers from Nashik in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The term “Saptashrungi,” which translates to “Seven Peaks,” reflects the temple’s unique location among seven prominent mountain peaks. The site is dedicated to the goddess Saptashrungi Nivasini, who is considered the resident deity of these peaks. Saptashrungi is situated in the village of Nanduri within the Kalwan taluka and holds significant spiritual importance for the Marathas and various Hindu tribes, many of whom revere the goddess as their kuldaivat (family deity).

Geographical Setting

Mountain Range and Peaks

Saptashrungi is nestled within the Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats, also referred to as the Ajanta Satmala Range. This range is renowned for its rugged terrain and biodiversity. The peaks of the Sahyadri Range, where Saptashrungi is located, average an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet (1,400 meters). The highest peak in this range is Dhodap, standing at an elevation of 4,600 feet (1,400 meters). The Saptashrungi hills are characterized by their scenic beauty and are an essential part of the region’s natural heritage.

Water Bodies and Access Routes

The region around Saptashrungi is notable for its 108 water bodies, known as Kundas, which are believed to have sacred significance. These water bodies contribute to the lush and vibrant ecosystem of the area. Pilgrims can access the temple via several routes, with the most convenient being a 14-kilometer (8.7-mile) path originating from Nadurgaon village. The temple is well-connected by State Highway 17 and National Highway 3, making it accessible to visitors from Nashik and surrounding areas.

Historical and Religious Significance

Shakti Peethas

Saptashrungi is recognized as one of Maharashtra’s “three and a half Shakti Peethas.” Shakti Peethas are sacred sites dedicated to the worship of the Hindu goddess Shakti, believed to be the embodiment of divine feminine energy. The Shakti Peethas are traditionally associated with the mythological story of Sati, whose body was divided into parts and scattered across the Indian subcontinent by Vishnu to restore cosmic balance. Among the Shakti Peethas, Saptashrungi holds a unique status. While some consider it a full Shakti Peetha, others debate this classification, noting that it is sometimes referred to as a “half Shakti Peetha.”

Scriptural References and Goddess Saptashrungi

The Devi Bhagavata Purana (Srimad Devi Bhagavatam) is one of the primary texts that recognizes the Saptashrungi hills as a Shakti Peetha. However, this status is not universally acknowledged in other major Hindu scriptures. The goddess worshipped here, Saptashrungi, is revered for her role in vanquishing the buffalo-demon Mahishasura. According to legend, she emerged from Brahma’s kamandalu (water-pot) and is considered the embodiment of divine power. This temple is viewed as the original abode of the goddess, who is also known as Brahmasvarupini.

Legends and Myths

Sati and the Shakti Peethas

One of the most compelling legends associated with Saptashrungi is its connection to the Shakti Peethas. According to Hindu mythology, Sati, the daughter of King Daksha, attended a yajna (sacrificial ritual) uninvited, which led to her father’s disdain for her husband, Shiva. In her anguish, Sati ended her life by jumping into the yajna fire. To address the cosmic disruption caused by her death, Vishnu dismembered Sati’s body and scattered the parts across various locations, which became the Shakti Peethas. Saptashrungi is believed to be the site where Sati’s right arm fell.

Other Legends and Local Myths

The site is also associated with various other myths. According to one legend, the goddess Durga, also known as Mahishasura Mardhini, defeated the demon Mahishasura on these hills. The Ramayana mentions Hanuman seeking medicinal herbs from these hills to heal Lakshmana, and Lord Rama is said to have prayed here. Another local myth involves a tiger believed to guard the temple at night, and the goddess is said to have protected a beehive from being disturbed.

A contemporary story adds a modern touch to the temple’s rich tapestry of legends. A troubled priest from Vani village sought solace from the goddess at Saptashrungi, and in a dream, the goddess directed him to Shirdi Sai Baba. After following this guidance, the priest found peace and relief from his distress.

Temple Architecture and Features

The Shrine and Iconography

The Saptashrungi Temple is a two-storied shrine, with the Devi’s idol enshrined on the top floor. The goddess’s image is carved into a cave at the base of a sheer rock face and is considered swayambhu (self-manifested). The temple’s name, Sapta Shrungi Mata, is derived from its location among seven peaks, which are integral to the site’s sacredness.

The Devi’s iconography is impressive, resembling Mahalakshmi from the Devi Mahatmya. She is depicted with eighteen arms and an 8-foot-tall image covered in sindoor (vermilion). The goddess holds various divine weapons, including Shiva’s trident, Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra, and Agni’s flames. She is adorned with a high crown, gold jewelry, and changing attire, receiving a ceremonial bath twice a week. The temple features over 500 steps leading to it, built in 1710 by Umabai Dabhade. Recent renovations have introduced new facilities, and the shrine is now accessible via a road constructed later, with earlier access routes developed by Mr. Gopal Kulkarni. It is believed that sage Markandeya composed the Devi Mahatmya at this site.

Ceremonial Practices and Rituals

The Saptashrungi Temple is known for its vibrant festivals and rituals. The major festival, Chaitrotsav, spans from Rama Navami to Chaitra Purnima and attracts up to 1 million devotees over nine days. Pilgrims from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan undertake significant journeys to participate. The festival includes daily abhisheka (ritual bathing) of the goddess with panchamruta (a sacred mixture) and offerings such as grains, flowers, coconuts, and kheer (sweet rice pudding). On the penultimate day, the goddess’s banner is paraded and hoisted at midnight.

Other significant celebrations at Saptashrungi include Dussera, Navaratri, and various special pujas performed on Tuesdays, Fridays, and specific lunar days. Offerings typically include silk cloth, silver eyes, and Kumkum (vermilion) designs. The Pachvi ceremonies performed by the Kathar community involve sacrificing a goat after childbirth, and Gondhal, a traditional folk dance-drama, is performed by various communities during weddings and major family events.

Recent Developments

Conservation Efforts and Reopening

Recent conservation efforts at Saptashrungi revealed the original form of the deity’s idol. The Prana Pratishtha ceremony, which involves the consecration of the idol, was held on September 8, 2022. Following these efforts, the temple reopened to devotees on September 26, 2022, in time for the Navaratri festival, allowing pilgrims to experience the renewed sanctity of the site.

Saptashrungi continues to be a major center of pilgrimage and spiritual significance, drawing visitors and devotees from far and wide and preserving its rich heritage and traditions.