The one who holds the keys to the afterlife

As you venture through the bustling streets of Patna, an ancient sanctuary emerges as a timeless testament of the faith and traditions of Hinduism. Located near the serene Naujar Ghat, the Adi Chitragupta Temple, also known as the Kayastha Dham, welcomes you.

This revered sanctuary is dedicated to Lord Chitragupta, the divine scribe who, like St. Peter in Christian tradition, maintains a record of every human being's virtues and sins. Considered the patriarchal deity of the Kayastha community, Lord Chitragupta is believed to hold the keys to the afterlife, granting or denying passage to the heavens based on one's earthly deeds.

This hallowed ground has been a sacred sanctuary for the devotees of Lord Chitragupta for over two and a half millennia. According to a popular belief, it was more than 2500 years ago that Mudrarakshasa, Mahamatya (statesman) of the Nanda dynasty, initiated the practice of collective worship of Lord Chitragupta at this very site and constructed a magnificent temple dedicated to the divine record-keeper, which houses a 16th-century black basalt stone idol of the deity.

Though the ravages of time and the fierce floods of the Ganga may have taken their toll on the temple complex over the ages, the tradition of worshipping Lord Chitragupta on the auspicious day of Yamdwitiya has continued. Even today, the Adi Chitragupta Temple stands as a testament to this timeless legacy, as every year, on the occasion of Yamdwitiya, devotees from the Kayastha community come to this sacred space to seek the blessings of their chief deity.

Legacy of the Kayastha Kings

The temple's origins can be traced back over 2,500 years when the statesman Mudrarakshasa established it. Centuries later, Raja Todarmal, finance minister to the Mughal emperor Akbar, was moved by the temple's degrading condition and resolved to restore its former grandeur. Under Todarmal's patronage, the Adi Chitragupta Temple was reborn, its magnificent black Kasauti stone idol consecrated amidst the fervent prayers of the devotees.

The grandeur of the Adi Chitragupta Temple was further elevated in 1766 AD when Maharaj Bhupnarayan Singh, the grandson of Raja Sitaab Rai, graced this sanctuary with carved stones, elevating its splendour to new heights.

Timings

Opening time - 06:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

Other wonders around

Beyond the wonder of the temple lies Patna's other stunning historical and spiritual attractions. You can start with Golghar, a massive granary constructed during the British era. It offers panoramic city views and a captivating glimpse into Patna's heritage. To seek more profound connections with India's religious heritage, you can visit the Vishnupad Temple, which has Lord Vishnu's sacred footprint, drawing devout pilgrims from near and far. Nearby, the Takht Sri Patna Sahib, one of the holiest Sikh shrines, stands as a testament to Patna's rich religious diversity, inviting you to explore the power of faith that has shaped the city's cultural landscape.

With its soaring spires and captivating history, the Adi Chitragupta Temple calls you to uncover the mysteries and timeless devotion that permeate its hallowed halls.