Ayodhya: The Pateshwari Mata Temple, located in the Cantonment area of Ayodhya, stands as a significant center of faith where devotees arrive in large numbers with deep devotion. Known for its sacred pond and rich mythological heritage, the temple remains crowded throughout the day, especially during the Navratri festival when the atmosphere turns vibrant and festive.
The site holds immense religious significance and is counted among the Siddhapeeths. According to mythology, a part (pat) of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen at this spot when Lord Shiva was carrying her body through the sky after the Daksha Yajna incident. Since then, the place became known as Pateshwari, and the goddess is worshipped here in the form of a pindi in the sanctum.
Another well-known legend associated with the temple speaks of King Anubhoj of Ujjain, who halted at this site while carrying the body of his only son to the cremation ground. Overwhelmed with grief, he rested under a neem tree, where an elderly woman approached him and asked the reason for his sorrow. On hearing his plight, she assured him that his son would return to life if he vowed to construct a temple and pond at that very spot. The king agreed, and on sprinkling water from the sacred pond on his son as instructed, the boy miraculously revived. The king later fulfilled his promise by building the temple and the paved pond.
Devotees believe that tying a chunari in the temple ensures the fulfillment of wishes. The temple complex also houses shrines dedicated to Hanuman Ji, Lord Shiva, Shirdi Sai Baba, Jwala Mata, Shani Dev, Brahma Baba, Maa Kali, and Bhairav Nath. During Navratri, special worship rituals are performed, and grand community feasts (bhandaras) are organized on Saptami and Navami.
The temple continues to be a powerful symbol of faith, drawing countless devotees seeking divine blessings and spiritual solace.