Danteshwari Temple

Danteshwari Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Dantewada town, Dantewada District, Chhattisgarh, dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, an incarnation of Shakti. It is revered as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and is the presiding deity of the Bastar region. Built in the 14th century, the temple is known for its religious importance, traditional architecture, and central role in the Bastar Dussehra festival.

Visitors can expect a traditional South-Central Indian temple complex located at the confluence of the Shankini and Dankini rivers in Dantewada town. The complex includes the main sanctum with the black stone idol of Goddess Danteshwari, pillared halls, and smaller shrines. The surroundings include temple courtyards, prasad shops, and river views. Visitors can observe daily rituals, aarti, and local devotees, with increased activity during Navratri and Dussehra.

The temple is believed to have been built in the 14th century by the Chalukya rulers and later patronized by the Kakatiya king Annam Deva of Warangal who established the Bastar kingdom. It has served as the tutelary shrine of the Bastar rulers for over 600 years and is traditionally associated with the Shakti Peetha legend.

Revered as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, the temple is the most important religious centre of the Bastar region. Goddess Danteshwari is worshipped as the gram devta and protector of Bastar. The temple is the focal point of Bastar Dussehra, a 75-day festival distinct from other Dussehra celebrations, where the goddess is taken in procession and honoured by tribal communities.