Who is Patan Devi
In the old quarters of Patna stand two temples close to one another, dedicated to Badi Patan Devi and Chhoti Patan Devi, twin forms of the Devi long revered as the guardian goddesses of the city.
While devotees hold varying local traditions about which specific form of Shakti resides here, both shrines are approached with equal reverence, and together they form one of the oldest centres of goddess worship in the Bihar capital.
History and Katha
Local tradition connects these shrines to the wider Shakti Peeth lore associated with the tale of Sati, holding that this ground has been sacred for a very long time, long before Patna grew into the modern city it is today.
Over centuries, as Patliputra transformed through many dynasties, the Patan Devi shrines are believed to have quietly endured, tended by generations of priests and devotees who saw the goddesses as constant protectors through the city's changing fortunes.
Significance and What Devotees Pray For
Devotees seek the blessings of Badi and Chhoti Patan Devi for protection of home and family, for success in new beginnings and for the wellbeing of the city itself, treating the goddesses as its collective guardians.
Many residents of Patna consider a visit here, especially before an important undertaking, to be a way of seeking the mother's watchful presence over their efforts, worship offered always in faith rather than expectation of guaranteed outcome.
Darshan Guide: Timings and Festivals
Both temples observe the familiar rhythm of morning and evening aarti, and being located in a busy part of old Patna, they see a steady flow of devotees through the day, especially in the early morning hours.
Navratri is the most vibrant time to visit, when the temples are decorated and special programs are held, though the shrines remain accessible and welcoming through the rest of the year as well.
How to Reach
Located within Patna city itself, the Patan Devi temples are easily reached by local transport from Patna Junction railway station or Jay Prakash Narayan Airport, both well within city limits.
Being centrally located, the shrines are often included by pilgrims visiting Patna as part of a broader circuit of the city's older temples and heritage sites.
Puja, Mantra and Takeaway
Devotees offer red chunri, bangles, flowers and sweets at both shrines, and many chant simple invocations to the Devi such as Jai Ambe Gauri or the universal Om Aim Hreem Kleem while seeking blessings.
For the people of Patna, these twin temples are a living reminder that a city's protection is often felt through faith passed down quietly across generations, worship here remaining an act of devotion, not transaction.
Quick Answers
What are Badi and Chhoti Patan Devi?+
They are twin Devi temples in old Patna, long regarded by local tradition as the guardian goddesses of the city.
Where are the Patan Devi temples located?+
Both temples are situated in the old city area of Patna, Bihar, close to Patna Junction railway station.
When is the best time to visit Patan Devi temples?+
Navratri brings the most vibrant celebrations, though the temples welcome devotees with regular morning and evening aarti throughout the year.
About the author
Pandit Ravindra Sharma · Vedic Rituals & Bhakti, 22+ years
Pandit Ravindra is the Vandnaa editorial team's resident specialist on aarti, chalisa, and daily devotion. He has performed home and temple pujas across Varanasi and Delhi for over two decades and contributes the bhakti-focused articles on this site.
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