Janaki Mandir
Janaki Mandir, also known as Naulakha Mandir and Ram Janaki Mandir, stands as the biggest and most significant temple in Nepal. Specifically, they situated it in Janakpurdham, the capital city of Madhesh Pradesh. This temple holds historical importance as the birthplace of goddess Sita, the daughter of King Janak, and the site where Lord Ram married her. Consequently, the temple is named after the goddess Sita, also known as Maa Janaki.
History
During the Ramayana era, King Janak ruled the Videha Kingdom. His daughter, Sita, chose Lord Ram during her Swayamvar ceremony and became the Queen of Ayodhya.
In 1657, the sanyasi Shurkishordas discovered the golden statue of goddess Sita at the holy site. Subsequently, in 1910 AD, Queen Vrisha Bhanu Kumari of Tikamgarh, India, initiated the construction of Janaki Mandir exactly at the spot where they found the statue. They completed the construction in 1911 AD. Notably, the project cost 9 lakhs, which is why they also call the temple the Naulakha Mandir.
In 2008, Janaki Temple was listed on UNESCO tentative site.
King Janak
King Janak, a revered figure in Hindu mythology, was the ruler of the ancient kingdom of Mithila, often associated with wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. King janak is listed on fourth National Heroes of Nepal.
He is best known as the father of Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, making him a key character in the epic Ramayana. Beyond his royal duties, King Janak was renowned for his philosophical insights and deep commitment to dharma. He was a disciple of the sage Yajnavalkya and is remembered for his pursuit of knowledge and detachment from materialism, earning the title “Rajarshi” or the sage-king. His court was a hub of intellectual and spiritual discussion, making him a symbol of a ruler who balanced worldly responsibilities with spiritual growth.
Sita
Sita, a central figure in the epic Ramayana, is revered as a symbol of purity, devotion, and strength in Hindu mythology. Sita is listed on the third National Heroes of Nepal.
She was the daughter of King Janak of Mithila and the beloved wife of Lord Rama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Sita is admired for her unwavering loyalty to Rama, especially during their exile and the trials that followed. Her character is defined by her immense fortitude, particularly during her abduction by the demon king Ravana and her subsequent captivity in Lanka. Despite facing immense hardship, Sita remained steadfast in her principles and devotion to Rama. Her trial by fire, known as Agnipariksha, demonstrated her purity and resilience, making her a revered figure of virtue and feminine strength. Sita’s story embodies the ideals of sacrifice, patience, and unwavering righteousness, which continue to inspire millions across generations.
Structure of Janaki Mandir
Janaki Mandir is constructed with a mixed style of Mughal and Hindu architecture. The walls feature paintings of Mithila Art, adding to its cultural richness. It boasts a three-story structure adorned with marble and stone. Additionally, the temple includes 60 rooms decorated with the National Flag of Nepal. Inside the mandir, a museum displays the clothes of King Janak and Goddess Sita for visitors to explore.Moreover, the temple showcases a Mughal touch with intricate engravings, colored glass, lattice windows, Mithila art, and turrets.
Tourism
Janaki Mandir is rich in spiritual heritage dating back thousands of years. Every year, thousands of tourists, pilgrims, and Hindu worshipers travel to Janakpur city from different parts of the world. Particularly, people who believe in both science and spiritual values visit the temple mostly in November and December, during the months of Vivaha Panchami, Ram Navami, Dashain, and Tihar. During this time, the people of Janakpur decorate the city beautifully with flowers and lights. As a result, the view attracts visitors without a doubt.
Janaki Mandir/ Janakpur has so many places nearby to visit:
- Ram Mandir
- Ganga Sagar
- Dhanush Sagar
- Ram Sita Vivaha Mandap
- Root Art Gallery
- Jaleshwar Mahadev Mandir
Beauty of Janaki Mandir
Also Read: Chitwan National Park
What is the design of Janaki Mandir?
Janaki Mandir is constructed with a mixed style of Mughal and Hindu architecture. The walls feature paintings of Mithila Art, adding to its cultural richness. It boasts a three-story structure adorned with marble and stone.
What is Janakpur Famous for?
The prime attraction of Janakpur is the magnificent temple dedicated to Sita called the Janaki Mandir. Known as the cultural center for Hindus in the Terai plains of Nepal, Janakpur has held a special significance for Indian travelers since centuries.
Why was Sita named Janaki?
Sita was the daughter of King Janak thats why she was also called by the name Janaki.
What is the old name of Janakpur?
Old name of Janakpur is Mithila Nagari.
Who is the idol of Janaki Mandir?
Goddess Sita is the idol of Janki Mandir.
How did Sita born?
According to many versions of the Ramayana, she is described as the daughter of the Earth, the goddess Bhumi, or Prithvi. King Janaka found her while ploughing as part of the Vedic ritual that he was performing, as a gift from the Earth goddess and adopted her as his daughter.
In which district is the Janaki Mandir located?
Janaki Mandir is located in Dhanusha District of Madhesh Pradesh Of Nepal.
Who Built Janki Mandir?
Queen Vrisha Bhanu Kumari of Tikamgarh, India built the Janaki mndir in 1911 AD with the cost of 9 Lakhs.
What is the another name of Janaki Mandir?
Nau Lakha Mandir( 9 Lakhs Mandir) is the another name of Janki Mandir.
What is the importance of Jankpur/ Janaki Mandir?
Janakpur is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus due to its connection with the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It is believed that Goddess Sita was born here and it is the place of her marriage with Lord Ram. Janakpur possesses more than seventy ponds and it is also known as City of Ponds.
What is the best time to visit JanakpurDham?
The best time to visit Janakpur is during Ram Navami and Bivaha Panchami. The festivals are celebrated very showy with Rath Yatra. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit the Janakpur in this time.
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