Satna

In December 2009, my geography was tested, when my boss asked me to visit a client in Satna. Satna is a town located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is approximately 772 km from Delhi (rail distance). Satna is renowned for its Dolomite and Limestone mines. Hence, its main economy is cement manufacturing. The district is home to a number of cement factories namely Birla, Prism and Bhilai Jaypee. Satna is also home to one of the leading cables manufacturer of India, Universal Cables Limited. 

Delhi-Satna Route

During the trip I was accompanied by 2 other bankers and a company executive. We left for Satna on Friday evening by Mahakoshal Express (Delhi-Jabalpur). The train departs from Delhi at 1610 hrs and reaches Satna next morning at 0630 hrs. Our journey didn’t begin on a good note as the train was delayed by almost 4.30 hrs. 

During the journey, the train was delayed further and we reached Satna by around 12 the next day (delay of almost 6 hrs). Due to the unforeseen delay our onward travel schedule was hampered. To reach Delhi as per schedule we decide to cancel our return train tickets and return by air via Khajuraho. 

On reaching the station, we left immediately for the plant, situated approximately 30 kms from the town. Satna as any other Tier 2 town has a pathetic infrastructure. As our schedule was very tight (made even more thanks to Indian Railways) we didn’t get much time to explore the city. But to be frank, seeing the condition of the town I didn’t feel like exploring it. 

A Busy Market Road

The only place worth visiting is Maihar, a small city approximately 40 km from Satna. Maihar is famous for a temple of goddess Sharda, built in 9^th or 10^th century AD. The temple is situated on a hillock and is known for its 1063 steps. The temple is also connected via a ropeway. We visited the temple on Saturday evening. 

Maihar Temple on Hill Top

Temple Entrance on Hill Top

Maa Sharda Deity

The temple is associated with 3 legends (as told by the localites):

1. Distressed on the death of his wife "Sati", Lord Shiva was furious, and was wandering with her dead body. Fearing that the earth might get destroyed Lord Vishnu decimated Sati in 52 pieces. Her necklace fell at this location and hence the name "Mai" (mother) "har" (necklace).  
2. Two warriors "Alha" and "Udal" were ardent followers of Sharda Devi. They are believed to be the first to visit the temple. They used to practice at the akhara located at the base of the temple. Alha penaced for 12 years before getting blessings from the goddess. Alha used to call the goddess as Maa Sharda and henceforth the temple was called by the same name.
3. Adiguru Shankaracharya worshipped here.

View from Hill Top

"Alha" Pond and Akhara

Sunday morning we left for Khajuraho via road. The distance from Satna is about 60 kms and takes slightly more than an hour. On way, the driver briefed us about the various temples of Khajuraho and their origin (he reminded me of my history teacher). Since school days, I had heard that the Khajuraho temples are the best in the world. On reaching the place I realized I was wrong, the magnificent temples are not only the best but “out of this world!”