Though Kampilya Nagar has always been one of the holiest places in Akhanda Bharat since the ancient times, it grew in stature and prominence in the Dwapura Yuga. The Panchala Kingdom reached its zenith in the Mahabharat Period and the birth of both Dhrishtadyumna and Divya Janani Draupadi is undisputedly its most glorious chapter.
According to the Hindu scriptures, Kampil at one time used to be dotted with hermitages and was an important seat of learning. Even today, one can see remains of ashrams and maths built in this period in the Panchala Kingdom extending from the Ganga River in the north to the Charmanwati River (Chambal River) in the south.
It is therefore unsurprising that this sacred land was frequented by the most exemplary Rishis, saints, yogis and tapasvis. It is however unfortunate that this divine land was desecrated by successive Muslim invaders starting from the 11th century.
While most of the temples and structures built from the ancient times have been reduced to rubble, some did manage to survive. One of them is the Satya Yuga Kapila Muni Ashram. This temple of great antiquity is the place where the extraordinarily brilliant Kapila Maharshi performed tapas (penance and austerities) for thousands of years. A Shiva Linga of this period has been consecrated in the sanctum sanctorum.
The original structure has since collapsed and a new temple is under construction. An old kund is found next to the temple.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
* Photos are only symbolic (Taken from public domain/internet and any copyright infringement is unintentional and regrettable)
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