Shri Durgiana Mandir (Gurmukhi: ਸ਼੍ਰੀ ਦੁਰਗਿਆਨਾ ਮੰਦਿਰ) (Devnagari: श्री दुर्गियाना मंदिर), is a Hindu temple situated in the city of Amritsar in Punjab, India. Though a Hindu temple, its architecture is similar to the Sikh Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple). This temple derives its name from the Goddess Durga, the chief Goddess who is worshipped here. Murtis of Lakshmi and Vishnu are also located and worshipped in the temple.
Although it is believed that Durgiana Mandir was built in 1921, the temple existed before it was rebuilt in 1921. It is confirmed by record in Amritsar District Gazetteer of 1893, which talks about Durgiana Sarovar and “Devi dwara” surrounding it which was thronged by Hindu pilgrims.
History and architecture
The Sri Durgiana temple is a very important temple for Hindus. In the courtyard of the temple is a tree where Lava and Kusha bound Hanuman after the captured challenge horse of the Ashvamedha yajna. Iksvaku, the grandson of sun-god, performed a number of yagyas on this land. The original temple was built in 16th century.
The architecture of Sri Durgiana Temple is similar to Shri Harmandir Sahib. It was built in 1921 by Guru Harsai Mal Kapoor in the architectural style of the Sikh Shri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) . Harsai Mal was a descendant of Prithi Chand and hence Guru Ram Das.The grandchildren of Harsai Mal Kapoor is currently living in amritsar and one of caretakers of the idol of Harsai mal Kapoor.
Existence of the Talab is also mentioned in 1868 Municipal committee, Amritsar documents.John Campbell Oman who was Professor of natural science in The Government College, Lahore mentioned about durgiana in his book where he found some mystics practicing yoga. Durgiana Mandir is recorded in Amritsar District Gazetteer of 1893 which talks about Durgiana Sarovar and “Devi dwara” surrounding it which was thronged by Hindu pilgrims.
Even though Amritsar is not declared a Holy city, restrictions are in force prohibiting sale of tobacco, liquor and meat within a radius of 200 metres (660 ft) around this temple and the Shri Harmandir Sahib (Sikh Golden Temple).
