Haridwar is not merely recognized for Har Ki Pauri and the banks of the Ganges, as the holy city also houses numerous ancient shrines and mythological sites detailed in sacred scriptures. Among these is the revered Sureshwari Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati. Situated roughly 10 kilometers away from the main town in the Ranipur region, this ancient temple rests on Surkut mountain right in the middle of the dense forests of Rajaji Tiger Reserve. The special significance of this spiritual seat finds detailed mention in the Kedarkhand section of the Skanda Purana.
The Legend of Lord Indra's Penance on Surkut Mountain
According to traditions, this miraculous abode of Goddess Bhagwati in Haridwar is a place where sincere prayers are promptly rewarded by the divine mother. During both Chaitra and Sharad Navratri, worshippers from all corners of the country arrive here to offer prayers to the Goddess. Temple priest Trilochan Tiwari shared the mythological tale described in the Skanda Purana, explaining that when the sons of King Raji captured Indralok, Lord Indra wandered in profound distress and fear.
Guidance From Lord Vishnu Led Indra to Haridwar
Following the counsel of Lord Vishnu, Indra came to the western banks of the Ganges in Haridwar and performed rigorous penance for the Goddess on Surkut mountain while disguised as an ordinary human. Pleased with his intense devotion, Goddess Bhagwati blessed him with the restoration of his throne. Because she is the goddess of the Suras or deities, this sacred dham came to be known as Sureshwari Devi. According to priest Trilochan Tiwari, the mother granted a boon that prayers offered with a pure heart at this site bear immediate fruit. During Sharad Navratri, devotees travel from afar seeking blessings for progeny, wealth, and domestic harmony. He noted that those unable to physically visit the temple can fulfill their wishes simply by meditating on the Goddess with a sincere heart from their homes.
Unwavering Faith of Devotees at Sureshwari Shrine
Sugandha, a female devotee who traveled from Delhi to visit the Sureshwari Devi Temple, shared her thoughts on the extraordinary nature of the site. She noted that Haridwar extends far beyond Har Ki Pauri, with the Sureshwari shrine on Surkut mountain holding immense miraculous power. Just as Lord Indra's arduous penance was fulfilled in ancient times, the wishes of pilgrims visiting this site are granted swiftly. She mentioned coming all the way from Delhi and experiencing the boundless grace of the Goddess, which fulfilled the prayers of herself and her friends. Having witnessed their wishes come true, she returned to the temple once again to offer prayers and express gratitude. Pilgrims firmly believe that wishes made with pure intent at this site mentioned in the Skanda Purana are soon fulfilled by the divine mother.
