Vani Saptashrungi Devi Temple
The Vani devi is called Saptashringi because of the seven peaks around her. In Devi Bhagvata Purana Seven peaks of Saptshrungi are considered one Shaktipith. The meaning of Saptshrungi mata is the “mother of seven peaks”. The mountain range surrounding the devi mandir is called Ghad. Saptshringi Devi temple is also known as swayambhu mata mandir. The Saptashrungi mata is known by many names like Saptashringi, Saptashring Niwasini, Brahmavarupini (It is believed that she originated from Lord Brahma’s Kamandalu), Mahishasura Mardini, Vani devi. Saptashringi Devi has a total of eighteen hands so she is also called Ashtadasha Devi.
In Devi Mahatmya Akhyaika describes these eighteen hands of Devi. It is believed that a cruel demon named Mahishasura started to trouble everyone. By doing penance to Lord Brahma, Mahishasura got a boon of immortality. But Mahishasura’s death would only happen at the hands of a woman. All the deities invoked Adishakti to kill Mahisharoor. And goddess fought with Mahishasura and killed him. And this event happened on seven hills of Saptshrungi mata mandir. This is why Vani devi (Saptashrungi Mata) is also called Mahishasur Mardhini. To kill Mahishasura devi was gifted 18 weapons from all gods. And she holds those 18 weapons in her 18 hands.
