Shri Shani Dev Mandir, Kokilavan 2023

If you are searching for a spiritual destination that offers peace and divine energy, then the Shri Shani Dev Mandir in Kokilavan, Uttar Pradesh, India, is a place you must visit. This temple, dedicated to Lord Saturn, also known as Shani Dev, is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus across the country. Let us take a journey to explore the history, significance, and spiritual energy of the Shri Shani Dev Mandir in Kokilavan.

Why is Shri Shani Dev Mandir, Kokilavan Famous

Shani Dev is the god of justice and is believed to be a powerful and influential deity in Hindu mythology.

According to legend, Kokilavan is the place where Shani Dev performed penance for several years to please Lord Vishnu. As a result, Lord Vishnu appeared before him and granted him the boon of being worshipped by devotees for his fair and just nature.

The temple is situated in the dense forests of Kokilavan, in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is believed that a visit to the temple and offering prayers to Shani Dev can bring good luck and remove the ill effects of the planet Saturn, which is believed to be associated with the deity.

The temple is also famous for its unique black stone idol of Shani Dev, which is believed to have been brought from the Kakutstha kingdom. The temple attracts a large number of devotees and visitors throughout the year, especially on Saturdays, which is considered as the day of Shani Dev.

Devotees from all over India and abroad come to the Shri Shani Dev Mandir to seek blessings from Shani Dev. The temple has a serene and peaceful atmosphere, which is said to have a calming effect on the mind and soul. The beautiful surroundings of the temple, which include the dense forests of Kokilavan, also make it a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists.

Apart from offering prayers to Shani Dev, the temple also hosts various religious and cultural events throughout the year. These events include the Shani Jayanti celebrations, which mark the birth anniversary of Shani Dev and the annual Shani Amavasya Mela, which attracts a large number of devotees.

The temple also provides various facilities to the visitors, such as accommodation, prasad distribution, and a parking facility. The temple authorities ensure that the temple premises are clean and well-maintained for the convenience of the visitors.

Overall, the Shri Shani Dev Mandir has a significant impact on the local community, both in terms of religion and tourism. The temple attracts a large number of visitors, which helps in boosting the local economy. The temple also provides employment opportunities to the local people, as many of them are employed by the temple authorities in various capacities.

The History of Shri Shani Dev Mandir

The Shri Shani Dev Mandir has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Saturn, or Shani Dev, is the son of Lord Surya and Chhaya. He is known as the god of Justice and Karma, and his influence is said to bring good or bad luck to individuals, depending on their actions. The temple was established by a sage named Shukracharya, who was a devotee of Lord Shani Dev. The temple has been rebuilt several times over the years, with the current structure dating back to the 19th century.

The Significance of Lord Saturn

Lord Saturn, or Shani Dev, is a significant deity in Hindu mythology. He is known as the lord of Karma and Justice and is said to govern the planet Saturn. According to astrologers, the position of Saturn in a person’s horoscope can have a significant impact on their life. Therefore, many people visit the Shri Shani Dev Mandir to seek blessings from Lord Saturn and mitigate the negative effects of Saturn in their lives.

The Spiritual Energy of Shri Shani Dev Mandir

The Shri Shani Dev Mandir is a place of immense spiritual energy and is believed to have the power to fulfill the wishes of devotees. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests, and the serene surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere that helps visitors connect with their inner selves. The chanting of mantras and the ringing of bells create a positive vibe that leaves visitors feeling rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted.

The Architecture and Design of the Temple

The Shri Shani Dev Mandir is an impressive example of ancient Indian architecture. The temple is built using black stone and has a magnificent structure that stands tall amidst the greenery. The main sanctum of the temple houses the idol of Lord Shani Dev, which is made of black stone and is 5 feet tall. The temple also has a small museum that displays artifacts related to Lord Shani Dev and the history of the temple.

The Rituals and Festivals of the Temple

The Shri Shani Dev Mandir is known for its various rituals and festivals that attract devotees from all over the country. Some of the popular rituals include Shani Jayanti, which celebrates Lord Shani Dev’s birthday, and Shani Amavasya, which is observed on the new moon day of every month.

During these festivals, the temple is decorated with flowers and elaborate lighting arrangements, and devotees perform special pujas and offer prayers to Lord Shani Dev. The temple also has a unique tradition where devotees are allowed to pour mustard oil over the idol of Lord Shani Dev. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

How long is Kokilavan Parikrama

The Kokilavan parikrama is a religious ritual in which devotees walk around the Kokilavan area, where the Shri Shani Dev Mandir is located. The parikrama is a circular path of approximately 7 kilometers in length, which takes devotees through the nearby villages and forests. The parikrama is considered a sacred act of devotion and is believed to bring good luck and blessings from Lord Shani Dev.

It usually takes around 2-3 hours to complete the entire parikrama, and devotees often undertake it barefoot as a mark of respect and humility towards the deity. The Kokilavan parikrama is a popular activity among visitors to the Shri Shani Dev Mandir, and many people believe that it is an essential part of their pilgrimage to the temple.

Shri Shani Dev, Kokilavan Temple Timings

The Kokilavan Temple opens its doors to devotees every day. However, there are specific timings for different rituals and ceremonies. The timings may differ on special occasions and festivals.

• Kokilavan Temple opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM every day.
• The morning Aarti takes place between 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM.
• The afternoon Aarti takes place between 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.
• The evening Aarti takes place between 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• The Shani Jayanti celebrations are held in the month of May, and the timings may vary on this day.

Kokilavan Temple Entry Fee

The Kokilavan Temple is open to all devotees, and there is no entry fee charged for visiting the temple. However, if you wish to perform any special puja, you will have to pay for the puja samagri and other charges as per the temple rules.

Shani Dev Vrat Katha

Shani Dev Vrat Katha is a popular religious story associated with Shani Dev, the Hindu God of Justice. The Vrat Katha is an important part of the worship of Shani Dev and is considered to be a powerful tool for seeking his blessings and protection from the malefic effects of Saturn in one’s horoscope.

According to the Vrat Katha, King Vikramaditya once performed a Shani Dev Vrat to seek his blessings. He followed all the rituals and offered prayers to Shani Dev with utmost devotion. Pleased with his devotion, Shani Dev appeared before him and asked him to ask for a boon.

The King asked Shani Dev to visit his kingdom and bless his people. Shani Dev agreed, but warned the King that he should not look at him directly, as it would bring bad luck. The King promised to follow the instructions and invited Shani Dev to his kingdom.

As Shani Dev entered the kingdom, the King, overcome with curiosity, looked directly at him. As a result, Shani Dev’s powerful gaze fell on the kingdom, causing widespread destruction and misery. Realizing his mistake, the King immediately sought forgiveness and performed a special Vrat to appease Shani Dev.

Eventually, Shani Dev was pleased with the King’s devotion and granted him his blessings. The King’s kingdom was once again restored to its former glory, and he lived a happy and prosperous life.

The Shani Dev Vrat Katha teaches the importance of following the instructions and rituals associated with the worship of Shani Dev, and the consequences of not doing so. It is believed that performing this Vrat with faith and devotion can help alleviate the malefic effects of Saturn in one’s horoscope and bring peace and prosperity to one’s life.

Kokilavan Temple Accommodation

The temple provides accommodation facilities for devotees who wish to stay overnight. The accommodation is available at a nominal cost, and the rooms are well-maintained and clean. Devotees can contact the temple authorities to book their accommodation in advance.

Tips for Visitors

If you’re planning a visit to the Shri Shani Dev Mandir, also known as the Kokilavan Temple, here are some tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Dress appropriately: The temple is a sacred place, so it’s important to dress conservatively and respectfully. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing.
• Remove footwear: You’ll need to remove your footwear before entering the temple, so wear slip-on shoes or sandals for easy access.
• Carry essentials: Bring a small bag to carry your essentials like a water bottle, hand sanitizer, and tissues.
• Respect the rules: Follow the rules and regulations of the temple, including no photography inside the temple, no eating or drinking inside the temple, and no smoking or drinking alcohol on the temple premises.
• Be mindful of crowds: The temple can get very crowded, especially during festivals and weekends. Be patient and follow the queues to maintain order.
• Hire a guide: If you’re not familiar with the temple or its rituals, consider hiring a guide who can show you around and explain the significance of the various aspects of the temple.
• Maintain silence: The temple is a place for prayer and meditation, so maintain silence and avoid talking loudly or creating unnecessary noise.

By following these tips, you can have a peaceful and fulfilling experience at the Shri Shani Dev Mandir.

Best Time to Visit Shri Shani Dev Mandir

If you’re planning a visit to the temple, it’s important to consider the best time to go. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Weather: The temple is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India and experiences extreme temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit the temple is during the winter months (November-February), when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

• Festivals: The temple is especially busy during festivals such as Shani Jayanti, which is celebrated in May or June, and Shani Amavasya, which falls in January or February. If you want to witness the temple’s festivities and experience the energy of the crowds, visiting during these times can be a great option.

• Weekdays vs. weekends: Like many popular tourist destinations, the Kokilavan Temple can get very crowded on weekends and holidays. If possible, it’s best to visit during the weekdays when there are fewer crowds.

Shri Shani Dev Mandir in Popular Culture

Shri Shani Dev Mandir, also known as the Kokilavan Temple, has been featured in various forms of popular culture. Here are some examples:

• Films: The temple has been featured in several Indian films, including the 1979 Hindi film “Jai Santoshi Maa” and the 2014 Kannada film “Shaniya”. In these films, the temple serves as a setting for important scenes and is shown as a place of spiritual significance.
• Television: The temple has also been featured in various television shows, such as the popular Indian TV serial “Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev”, which depicts Lord Shani’s story and his association with the Kokilavan Temple.
• Literature: The Kokilavan Temple has been mentioned in several works of literature. For example, the 18th century Hindi poet Ras Khan wrote about the temple and its significance in his poetry. The temple has also been featured in several modern books, including “Shani” by Amish Tripathi and “Shanidev ki Mahima” by Acharya Vijay Ratnasundersuri Maharaj.
• Music: The Kokilavan Temple has also been the subject of various devotional songs, including the popular bhajan “Shree Shanidev Ki Aarti” sung by Anuradha Paudwal.
• Social Media: The temple has gained popularity on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, with many people sharing pictures and videos of their visits to the temple.

The Impact of Shri Shani Dev Mandir on Local Community

The Shri Shani Dev Mandir, also known as the Kokilavan Temple, has had a significant impact on the local community in the village of Kokilavan, near Mathura in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Here are some ways in which the temple has affected the community:

Religious Significance: The Shri Shani Dev Mandir is considered to be a sacred site by many devotees of Lord Shani Dev. The temple attracts a large number of devotees every year, especially during the festivals of Shani Jayanti and Shani Amavasya. This has led to an increase in the number of shops and businesses in the village, as well as the development of new facilities such as guesthouses, restaurants, and shops selling religious items.

Employment Opportunities: The Shri Shani Dev Mandir has also created employment opportunities for the local community. Many people in the village work as priests, caretakers, or employees in the various shops and businesses that have been established around the temple. This has helped to improve the economic conditions of the village and reduce poverty.

Infrastructure Development: The development of the Shri Shani Dev Mandir has also led to the development of infrastructure in the village. The roads leading to the temple have been improved, and there are now better facilities for transportation and accommodation. This has helped to attract more tourists and devotees to the village, which in turn has led to further development.

Preservation of Heritage: The Shri Shani Dev Mandir has also played a role in preserving the cultural heritage of the local community. The temple is an important part of the village’s history and tradition, and the local community has worked to ensure its preservation. This has helped to maintain the cultural identity of the village and promote its heritage.

How to Reach the Shri Shani Dev Mandir

The Shri Shani Dev Mandir, also known as the Kokilavan Temple, is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shani Dev. It is located in the village of Kokilavan, near Mathura in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Here are the ways you can reach the temple:

By Air: The nearest airport to the Shri Shani Dev Mandir is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.

By Train: The nearest railway station to the Shri Shani Dev Mandir is the Mathura Junction Railway Station, which is around 25 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach the temple. Another option is the Vrindavan Railway Station, which is around 17 kilometers away.

By Road: The Shri Shani Dev Mandir is well connected by road. You can take a taxi or a bus from Mathura or Vrindavan to reach the temple. It is also possible to drive to the temple if you have your own vehicle.

Local Transport: Once you reach the Kokilavan village, you can hire a cycle rickshaw or a horse cart to reach the temple. The parikrama or circumambulation of the temple can also be done on foot.

Reaching the Shri Shani Dev Mandir is not a difficult task as it is well connected by road, rail, and air. You just need to plan your trip and choose the mode of transportation that suits you the best.

Frequently Asked Questions