Bihar holds immense mythological and spiritual importance in Indian history. It’s one of the few places where Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Islamic traditions all have deep roots. In Hindu mythology especially, Bihar is not just a state — it’s a sacred landscape where gods walked, sages meditated, and epic events unfolded.
Why ? Let us deep dive into the mythological importance of Bihar:
1. Gaya – Salvation City (Moksha Bhoomi)
- Mythological Connection: According to Puranas, demon Gayasura was granted a boon that anyone who saw him would attain salvation (moksha).
- To control this power, Lord Vishnu pressed Gayasura into the earth with His foot, creating the Vishnupad Temple.
- Even today, Pind Daan rituals for ancestors are performed here by Hindus seeking moksha for departed souls.
2. Sitamarhi – Birthplace of Goddess Sita
- Myth: It is believed that Goddess Sita (wife of Lord Rama) was found in a furrow during ploughing in Sitamarhi.
- Also, nearby Punaura Dham is associated with her childhood.
3. Buxar – Rishi Vishwamitra and Lord Ram
- Associated with Rishi Vishwamitra’s ashram, where Lord Rama and Lakshman learned celestial warfare.
- Here, Lord Rama killed the demoness Tadaka and protected the yajna of the sage.
4. Munger – Seat of Goddess Chandika (Shakti Peeth)
- Myth: One of the 51 Shaktipeeths, where Sati’s left eye is said to have fallen.
- The Chandika Sthan Temple is still an active pilgrimage site.
5. Rajgir – Lord Krishna’s Meeting With Jarasandha
- Mahabharata connection: Rajgir (ancient Rajgriha) was ruled by King Jarasandha, father-in-law of Kamsa and enemy of Krishna.
- Bhima (with Krishna and Arjuna) fought and killed Jarasandha here.
- Jarasandha ka Akhara (wrestling ground) is still a visited spot.
6. Nalanda – Puranic Learning Hub
- Though better known as a Buddhist center, Nalanda finds mention in Puranic texts as a seat of Vedic learning.
- Some say Katyayan Rishi, the guru of Chanakya, meditated near Nalanda.
7. Sonepur – Gaj-Grah Yudh (Elephant-Crocodile Story)
- This is where Lord Vishnu saved Gajendra (elephant king) from a crocodile, symbolizing devotion and divine rescue.
- The famous Sonepur Mela is still celebrated in memory of this myth.
8. Patna (Ancient Pataliputra) – Center of Cosmic Energy
- Some beliefs say Patna sits on the navel (nabhi) of the cosmic Purusha (universal being).
- Patan Devi Temple is one of the Shaktipeeths where part of Sati’s body fell.
9. Vaishali – Lord Ram’s Children Born Here?
- Some versions of Ramayana mention that Luv and Kush, sons of Lord Rama, were born and raised in the forests near Vaishali.
- It’s also a sacred Jain and Buddhist site.
10. Dharhara / Bhagalpur – Ang Desh of Karna
- The area around Bhagalpur was historically known as Ang Desh, ruled by Karna, the great warrior and loyal friend of Duryodhana.
- Mythologically, Karna was known for his unmatched generosity.
In Short:
| Place | Mythological Link |
|---|---|
| Gaya | Lord Vishnu, Gayasura, Pind Daan |
| Sitamarhi | Birthplace of Sita |
| Rajgir | Mahabharata – Jarasandh, Krishna, Bhima |
| Buxar | Lord Rama kills Tadaka |
| Munger | Shakti Peeth – Eye of Goddess Sati |
| Patna | Patan Devi – part of Sati fell here |
| Sonepur | Vishnu saved elephant king Gajendra |
| Bhagalpur | Kingdom of Karna |
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