Nagavasuki Temple is situated on the banks of Ganga at the northern end of Daraganj area of Uttar Pradesh. This temple is dedicated to the snake king Vasuki. It is believed that the journey of every devotee and pilgrim to Prayagraj is not complete until he has the darshan of Bhagwan Nagavasuki. Bhogavati temple is believed to be inhabited by Nagavasuki. Nagavasuki temple is considered to be Bhogavati Tirtha on the west bank of Ganga towards the east. When the Ganga floods during the rainy season, its water reaches the steps of the Nagavasuki temple. After this the devotees take bath in Bhogavati temple.
Deities worshiped in Nagavasuki Temple
The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a black stone idol of Lord Vasuki with five hoods and four earrings which is a symbol of hope, protection and spiritual awakening for countless devotees. The temple also has several small shrines dedicated to other deities including Bhgawan Shiva, Bhgawan Ganesh, Devi Parvati and Bhishma Pitamah.
This temple is also known as Asi Madhava and is one of the 12 Madhava temples in and around the city. This is the only place where you can see Bhishma Pitamah idol worship.
Mythological story of Nagavasuki temple
Nagavasuki has also been called Sheshraj, Sarpanath, Anant and Sarvadhyaksha. It is famous about this temple that when Aurangzeb was demolishing temples in India, he himself came to demolish the much talked about Nagavasuki temple. But, as he swung the sword at the idol, the sword got stuck in the idol and suddenly the divine form of Lord Nagavasuki appeared. Seeing his monstrous form, Aurangzeb trembled and fainted with fear.
There is a mythological belief about this temple that King Vasuki of the Naga dynasty rested here after participating in the churning of the ocean. It is believed that by coming here and worshiping, Kaal Sarp Dosh gets eliminated forever. Legend has it that at that time the then Maratha king was suffering from leprosy. Therefore, Raj Pandit had agreed that if the king gets relief from his illness, he will get the temple renovated. The king got relief from the dangerous disease. Grateful Raj Pandit built a pucca ghat along with the temple.
Nagavasuki Temple Darshan Timings
The temple remains open throughout the week and darshan timings are from 5:30 am to 10:30 pm. There is a place to sit and meditate. You can easily go into a state of meditation here.
Major Festivals of Nagavasuki Temple
Every year a fair is organized near the temple on the occasion of Nag Panchami. During this time, a large number of devotees come to the temple. Lakhs of pilgrims visit the temple on the days of Kumbh, Ardh Kumbh, Magh Mela and Nagpanchami. The description of this temple is also found in the Puranas. Shanti ritual is performed in this temple in the month of Shravan. Rudrabhishek, Mahabhishek and Kaal Sarpadosh rituals are performed in Nagavasuki temple.
How to reach Nagavasuki Temple?
Nagavasuki Temple is located in the Nagavasuki area of Prayagraj, about 7.4 kilometers from Allahabad Junction Railway Station. From the railway station you can easily take an auto-rickshaw, taxi or local bus to reach the temple. Regular buses also run from Civil Lines Bus Stand to Nagavasuki. The nearest airport is Bamrauli Airport, 12 km away. The temple is accessible through the major road network passing through the city.
Things to keep in mind while visiting Nagavasuki Temple
The temple can be reached only after climbing 30-40 steps: those visiting with senior citizens/children should plan accordingly.
Nagavasuki Temple Experience
You will feel peaceful by sitting near this temple on the banks of river Ganga. Fresh air and flowing river is what we all need. The view of the Ganga from the temple is amazing!
Popular Name: Nagavasuki Mandir, Asi Madhava Mandir