Cultural Heritage Tourism Development of Maa Mundeshwari Temple Complex in Kaimur, Bihar

Abstract

Maa Mundeshwari temple complex in Kaimur Bihar is located on a flat top of Piwara hill. It has an ancient history of over two thousand years. It is known as the place where goddess Durga destroyed demon Mund out of Chand-Mund as mentioned in the Durga Saptshati of Markandeya Purana.  The place is unique for bloodless sacrifice of goats. The goat is sacrificed but not slaughtered. It get full unconscious at the feet of the idol Maa Mundeshwari when some rice is thrown on its head after touching the feet of the idol Maa Mundeshwari. The place was well developed during Gupta age as the idol and temple complex show similarity with that time period stones and style of polishing. Unfortunately, it was destroyed during Middle Ages but re-established around a hundred years ago. Research is required to establish cultural heritage status of this temple complex. It is well connected to Varanasi, Patna and Gaya via both rail (Bhabua Road) and Road connections (Grand trunk road or National Highway no. 2). The area is very poor and backward where agriculture is the only means of livelihood.  The researcher has tried to bring out significant points of attractions through personal field survey that would attract more visitors as tourists from Varanasi, Patna and Gaya to this place.