Who is Sharika Devi of Hari Parbat
On Hari Parbat, a hill that rises over Srinagar, stands the shrine of Sharika Devi, worshipped by Kashmiri devotees as a form of Jagadamba, the mother of the universe. Unlike many temples, the goddess here is not represented by a carved idol but by a natural rock inscribed with the Sri Chakra yantra, an eighteen-armed form believed to reside within it.
Sharika Devi is also known as Chakreshwari, and the hill itself is regarded as one of Kashmir's most sacred sites, watched over by the goddess from its summit.
The Legend of Hari Parbat and the Goddess
Tradition holds that Hari Parbat was once troubled by a demon, and the goddess took the form of a bird, a myna, and dropped a pebble on the demon which grew into the hill itself, trapping the evil beneath it. This is why the hill is considered a manifestation of the goddess's power.
Over centuries, the site has been revered continuously, with the small Sharika Devi temple built partway up the hill becoming a focus of devotion for the Kashmiri Hindu community.
Significance of Chakreshwari Worship
Devotees believe that worshipping Sharika Devi grants protection, removal of obstacles and fulfilment of sincere prayers. The Sri Chakra yantra at the heart of the shrine is considered a powerful symbol in Devi worship, representing the goddess in her most abstract, formless glory.
Many Kashmiri Pandit families consider a visit to Hari Parbat essential during festivals and important family occasions, treating the climb up the hill itself as an act of devotion.
Darshan Guide and Festivals
The shrine is generally open through the day for darshan, with devotees climbing a flight of steps up the hillside to reach it. Navratri is the most significant time to visit, when the temple sees a steady stream of devotees offering prayers to the goddess.
As timings can vary with season, pilgrims are encouraged to check locally before planning an early or late visit.
How to Reach Hari Parbat
Hari Parbat is located within Srinagar city itself, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city by local transport. Srinagar's airport and railway station connect the city to the rest of India.
The hill is often visited alongside other Srinagar shrines, and devotees usually set aside a few hours for the climb and darshan.
Mantra and Takeaway
Devotees chant Om Sharikayai Namah or the broader Devi mantra Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundaye Namah while offering prayers here.
The hill of Hari Parbat, transformed by legend into the very body of the goddess's power, reminds devotees that faith can turn even a mountain into a sanctuary, and worship remains, above all, an act of faith and love, not a transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Sharika Devi's form?+
The goddess is worshipped as a natural rock inscribed with the Sri Chakra yantra rather than a carved idol, and is known as Chakreshwari.
Why is Hari Parbat considered sacred?+
Tradition holds the hill itself formed when the goddess, in the form of a bird, dropped a pebble on a troublesome demon, which grew into the hill.
When should one visit Hari Parbat?+
Navratri is considered especially significant, though the shrine welcomes devotees through the year; timings are best confirmed locally.
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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