The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Pehowa): The origins of Pehowa can be traced back to the legendary King Prithu, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. According to ancient texts, King Prithu founded the city after performing a grand Ashwamedha Yajna, a sacred horse sacrifice ritual. The town’s original name, “Prithudaka,” which later evolved into Pehowa, pays homage to its royal founder.
As one sets foot in Pehowa, the weight of its historical significance becomes palpable. The town finds mention in the great epic Mahabharata, where it is described as the site of the fierce battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. It is believed that the soil of Pehowa is still stained with the blood of the warriors who fought and sacrificed their lives on this holy ground.
The Puranas, ancient Hindu texts, also speak of Pehowa’s spiritual importance. The Vamana Purana and the Mahabharata both mention Pehowa as a sacred place for performing pind daan, a ritual offering to one’s ancestors. It is believed that offering pind daan at Pehowa helps in the liberation of the souls of the deceased ancestors from the cycle of birth and death.
Pehowa’s significance is not limited to Hindu scriptures alone. The town has captured the attention of travelers and scholars from diverse cultures throughout history. The Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who visited India in the 7th century CE, wrote about Pehowa in his travelogues, describing it as a place of great spiritual importance. Similarly, the Persian scholar Al-Biruni, in the 11th century CE, acknowledged Pehowa’s sacred status in his writings.
The town’s spiritual magnetism is further amplified by its association with Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. It is said that Lord Krishna delivered the divine sermon of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefields of Kurukshetra, of which Pehowa is a part. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text revered by millions, contains the timeless wisdom imparted by Lord Krishna, making Pehowa a place of pilgrimage for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
According to local legends, Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, also graced Pehowa with their presence during their exile. The Prachi Tirtha, a sacred pond in Pehowa, is believed to have been created by the arrows shot by Lord Rama himself. Devotees take a holy dip in this pond, seeking blessings and spiritual purification.
The ancient temples of Pehowa are architectural marvels that showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage. The Prithudakeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is said to have been built by King Prithu himself after performing the Ashwamedha Yajna. The temple’s intricate carvings and serene ambiance transport visitors to a realm of divine tranquility.
Other notable temples in Pehowa include the Vata Nath Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, and the Saraswati Temple. Each temple has its own unique history and significance, attracting devotees from far and wide. The Saraswati Temple, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of scholars and students, as it is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
Recent excavations in and around Pehowa have shed light on its ancient past. Archaeologists have unearthed remains of ancient settlements, pottery, and artifacts that date back to the Harappan civilization. These discoveries suggest that Pehowa’s history may be even older than previously thought, adding to the town’s allure for history enthusiasts and researchers.
The local folklore of Pehowa is a treasure trove of tales and legends that have been passed down through generations. One such legend revolves around the Saraswati River, which is believed to have once flowed through Pehowa. It is said that the river disappeared underground due to a curse, but its sacred waters still flow beneath the surface, making Pehowa a place of great spiritual significance.
Another popular folkloric tale speaks of a sage named Dadhichi, who is said to have meditated in Pehowa for years. According to the legend, when the Devas (celestial beings) sought Dadhichi’s help in their battle against the Asuras (demons), he willingly sacrificed his life and gave up his bones to be used as weapons. The tale exemplifies the spirit of selflessness and sacrifice that is deeply ingrained in the ethos of Pehowa.
For those seeking to perform the sacred rituals of pind daan and Shradh, Pehowa is the ultimate destination. The town comes alive during the period of Pitru Paksha, a 15-day period dedicated to honoring one’s ancestors. Thousands of devotees throng to the sacred ponds and temples of Pehowa to offer prayers and seek blessings for their departed loved ones.
The ritual of pind daan involves offering rice balls (pind) to the ancestors, along with other offerings such as sesame seeds, water, and flowers. It is believed that performing this ritual at Pehowa helps in the liberation of the souls of the deceased ancestors and brings peace to their spirits.
Shradh, on the other hand, is a ceremony performed to honor and pay homage to one’s deceased parents and ancestors. It involves offering food, water, and other essential items to the departed souls. Performing Shradh at Pehowa is considered highly auspicious and is believed to bring immense blessings and spiritual merit to the family.
Apart from its spiritual significance, Pehowa is also known for its agricultural bounty. The town is surrounded by lush green fields that yield a variety of crops, including the famous basmati rice. The aroma of the basmati rice grown in Pehowa is said to be unparalleled, making it a sought-after commodity in both domestic and international markets.
Pehowa’s rural charm and simple way of life add to its appeal as a destination for those seeking a break from the chaos of urban living. The town’s narrow streets, lined with colorful houses and friendly locals, offer a glimpse into the authentic Haryanvi culture. The warm hospitality of the people of Pehowa is a testament to the town’s timeless tradition of welcoming pilgrims and visitors with open arms.
In recent years, efforts have been made to develop Pehowa as a major pilgrimage destination. The local authorities have taken steps to improve the infrastructure and facilities for the convenience of the visitors. The town now boasts of several dharamshalas and guest houses that provide comfortable accommodation to the pilgrims.
The spiritual energy that permeates the atmosphere of Pehowa is palpable, and it leaves a lasting impact on all those who visit. Whether one seeks to connect with their ancestral roots, find solace in the divine, or simply immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region, Pehowa offers a transformative experience that touches the soul.
As the sun sets over the ancient temples and sacred ponds of Pehowa, one can’t help but feel a deep sense of reverence for the countless generations that have walked these hallowed grounds before. The town stands as a reminder of the timeless values of devotion, sacrifice, and the eternal quest for spiritual enlightenment.
Pehowa is a sacred tirtha that beckons to those who seek to unravel the mysteries of the past, connect with the divine, and find solace in the lap of spirituality. Its ancient temples, sacred ponds, and the deep-rooted belief in the power of its rituals make it a revered destination for devotees from all walks of life. The town’s association with the epic Mahabharata, Lord Krishna, and Lord Rama, along with its rich folkloric traditions, add to its allure and significance.
So, if you find yourself drawn to the call of the sacred, if you yearn to explore the depths of history and spirituality, Pehowa awaits you with open arms. Come, take a dip in its holy waters, offer prayers at its ancient temples, and let the timeless magic of this sacred tirtha wash over your soul. In Pehowa, you will find not just a destination, but a journey that will stay with you long after you have left its earthly bounds.
