โ๏ธ Katyayani Shakti Peeth
The Warrior Mother of Vrindavan
๐ The Siddha Peeth of Braj
Located near Radha Bagh in Vrindavan, this temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. While Vrindavan is synonymous with Krishna, this shrine represents the Shakti (power) that protects the holy land. The Goddess is worshipped here as Uma, and Lord Shiva is present as Bhotesh. The main deity is a magnificent Ashtadhatu (eight-metal) idol of Goddess Katyayani, established in 1923 by Yogiraj Swami Keshvanand Brahmachari.
๐ The Gopi Vrata & Marriage Blessings
This temple holds a unique place for those seeking martial harmony or a desired life partner:
- The Legend: In the Srimad Bhagavatam, the Gopis of Braj performed a month-long Katyayani Vrat on the banks of the Yamuna to obtain Lord Krishna as their husband.
- Sword Worship: Uniquely, the temple also houses and worships the Uchawal Chandrahaas (the sword of the Devi), symbolizing the destruction of ego and obstacles.
- 2026 Katyayani Vrat: The main Vrat for the current year begins in the month of Margashirsha (NovemberโDecember 2026), peaking on November 25th.
๐๏ธ A Synthesis of Sects
The temple architecture features white marble with black stone pillars and two golden lions at the entrance. It is rare because it honors the Panchupasana (five main deities of Hindu sects):
๐ Visit Details (2026)
Address: Bhaktivedanta Swami Marg, Goda Vihar, Vrindavan, UP 281121.
โฐ Daily Timings
Morning Darshan: 7:00 AM โ 11:00 AM
Evening Darshan: 5:30 PM โ 8:00 PM
(Special extended hours during Navratri Oct 8โ17, 2026)
๐ก Pro Tip
The temple is located in a quieter part of Vrindavan. Combine your visit with Nidhivan or the Radha Raman Temple, which are relatively close by.