When Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned Char Dham, Shakti Peeth and Sapt Puri in his speech on National Unity Day on 31 October in Kevadiya, Gujarat, curiosity about these names increased across the country. Most people know about Char Dham and Shakti Peethas, but the question is, what are the Sapt Puris and why do they have such special importance in Hinduism?
Sapta Puriyas, where the path of liberation and salvation is found
Sapta Mokshadayini Puriyas are mentioned in Hindu scriptures. These seven cities are considered to be the places where the four paths of religion, penance, knowledge and salvation meet each other. There is a mythological belief that by living or dying in these cities, the soul attains salvation. These are the seven holy puris-
Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh)
Birthplace of Lord Shri Ram. Symbol of dignity, truth and policy. This city is considered to be the biggest example of religious conduct and ideal life.
Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)
Birthplace of Lord Shri Krishna. Here the feeling of love, leela and devotion is supreme. This place is the center of the path of devotion. Where God is seen in the form of love.
Haridwar (Uttarakhand)
This city situated on the banks of Ganga is associated with penance, meditation and bathing. The tradition of Kumbh Mela has made it famous throughout the world as the gateway to salvation.
Kashi (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh)
City of Lord Shiva. It is said that here even death becomes the path to salvation. This place is considered a center of knowledge, meditation and spiritual practice.
Kanchi (Tamil Nadu)
This ancient city of South India is dedicated to Mother Kamakshi and Lord Vishnu. It is considered to be a confluence of knowledge, scriptures and spirituality.
Avantika or Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh)
Residence of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. The secrets of time and karma are hidden here. Kumbh is also organized in Ujjain, which gives it equal prestige to the four Dhams.
Dwarka (Gujarat)
Capital of Lord Krishna. This city is a symbol of balance of religion, policy and duty. This is the abode towards the west which gives direction to the unity of entire India.
mention in scriptures
Detailed mention of these seven Puris is found in Garuda Purana, Vayu Purana and Skanda Purana. These cities have been called Mokshadayini Saptpuriyas, i.e. places where man can free himself from his deeds and attain spiritual peace.
Message of unity beyond religious meaning
Prime Minister Modi’s mention of these cities was not only in the religious context. Sapt Puriyas also symbolize the cultural and geographical diversity of India. From north to south and from east to west, it shows that India’s spiritual journey is linked to a single spirit. Every Puri gives a message. It shows that religion is not just worship but also a balanced way of living. Sapt Puriyas are the living history of the soul of India.
Each of these cities teaches that salvation can be found not only after death, but also in the practice of truth, love, asceticism and knowledge. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned these today, it was like a reminder that India’s unity does not lie in its geographical boundaries, but in the shared experiences of its faith and tradition.
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