|
Ratanpur | |
|---|---|
Village | |
| Ratanpur Abhiman | |
Location in Bihar, India Ratanpur Abhiman (India) | |
| Coordinates: 26°17′28″N 85°44′14″E / 26.29111°N 85.73722°E | |
| Country |  India |
| State | Bihar |
| Region | Mithila |
| District | Darbhanga |
| Official | |
| • Languages | Maithili, Hindi, Thethi, English |
| Time zone | IST |
History
editRatanpur Abhiman is a historic village located in Darbhanga, Bihar, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and significant historical legacy. Commonly referred to locally as Ratanpur, the village is also noted in official documents as Ratanpur Mokari.
Historical Background
editRatanpur Abhiman’s history dates back to the 13th century, during the rule of the Sen Dynasty in Bengal, which spanned from 1230 to 1295 AD. With the rise of the Deva Dynasty, the Sen Dynasty's last ruler, Keshav Sen, saw his lineage migrate from Bengal. His great-grandson, Ratna Sen, a devoted follower of Mother Durga, fled to Mithilanchal. He established a fort near an existing Durga temple, leading to the village being named Ratanpur in his honor.
The village also holds historical significance due to its role in the Indian independence movement. During the August Revolution of 1942, local freedom fighters Pradeep Sharma, Md. Bilat Darjee, and Kappal Kumar sacrificed their lives, earning the village the designation of Shaheed Sthal (Martyr's Place).
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
editRatanpur Abhiman is renowned for its spiritual heritage, notably the Mata Ratneswari Asthan, a revered Vaishnavi Durga Peeth located in the village's eastern part. This temple, which has been a site of worship for centuries, was established by Baba Bam Bholi Das. It is a prominent destination for devotees from Mithilanchal and Nepal, particularly during the Shardiya and Annual Navratri festivals. The temple venerates Durga in her Lakshmi Swarupa form, with worship centered around a sacred Pindi rather than a statue. The temple does not practice animal sacrifice, reflecting its tranquil and devout nature.
Additionally, Ratanpur Abhiman is home to the Gangeshwar Temple (Baba GangeshwarNath Mandir), dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is another significant spiritual site in the village, enhancing its religious and cultural prominence. Devotees visit the Gangeshwar Temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva, adding to the village's reputation as a center of worship and spiritual significance.
Ratanpur Abhiman continues to be a vibrant location, celebrated for its historical legacy, cultural richness, and spiritual heritage, making it a notable landmark in Mithilanchal.