Devyagiri, who once wanted to become a pathologist, gave up on worldly pursuits to become a Mahant. Remarkably, she is the only female Mahant of Uttar Pradesh and of Mankameshwar Temple.
Lucknow: Mankameshwar Temple, situated on the banks of the Gomti River in Daliganj, Lucknow, has roots tracing back to the Ramayana era. Religious scriptures suggest that when Lakshman bid farewell to Sita during their exile, he felt extremely sad, and seeking solace, he rested at this site which later became the Mankameshwar Temple. Remarkably, Devyagiri is the only female Mahant of Uttar Pradesh and of Mankameshwar Temple. A Mahant is the head of the temple who holds immense reputation.
Who is Devyagiri?
Mahant Devyagiri was born in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh. She pursued BSc diploma in Pathology, followed by a postgraduate degree. She aspired to make a career in the medical field. She had plans of moving to Mumbai, however, a significant event altered the course of her life. Devyagiri nurtured new dreams and dedicated herself to the selfless service in the temple.
Devyagiri’s family
Her father VP Singh was a Bureau Chief in a newspaper company, while her mother was a homemaker. During her graduation studies, she often visited the Mankameshwar Temple in Lucknow. It was during one such visit that she experienced a profound moment. While worshipping, she found her calling and abandoned her pursuit of a medical career. That day, she resolved to devote her life entirely to the service of Lord Shiva.
Resistance from the family
At the time, Devyagiri was awaiting her final results. Her family wanted to open a laboratory for her in Mumbai. The preparations were almost finalized but one event changed Devyagiri’s life. Her profound religious experience at the Mankameshwar Temple prompted her to give up all the worldly pursuits to devote her life in the service of God.
Mahant Devyagiri shares that when expressed her desire to become a Mahant, her family members strongly protested. Her parents tried to dissuade her from doing so. The family mourned and refrained from cooking for 9 days. However, Mahant Devyagiri remained resolute in her decision. In the year 2002, she received blessings from Mahant Keshav Giri of Mankameshwar Temple, and later became Mahant Devyagiri.
The transition
Mahant Devyagiri reflects on the transition from college life to assuming the role of Mahant at the temple. She experienced significant challenges in adapting to her new role. However, the teachings of her Guru helped her immensely to navigate responsibilities effectively. For the last 16 years, she has dedicated herself to serving Lord Shiva.
Mahant Devyagiri extends her support to girls from underprivileged backgrounds. A committee facilitates the weddings of these daughters. Annually, 21 girls benefit from this initiative. Furthermore, she has also adopted five children, exemplifying her commitment to serving the community.
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