Rajdevi Mandir, Janakpur

Rajdevi Mandir (Maithili: राजदेवी मन्दिर) at Janakpurdham is the Kuldevi temple of the King Janaka in the ancient Mithila Kingdom. It is located at a distance of a few steps from the Janaki Mandir in Janakpur.

Background
According to legend, Rajdevi was the Kuldevi (the family deity) of the King Janaka in Mithila. Rajdevi Mandir is a Shaktipeetha in the Hindu tradition of Mithila.

Etymology
Rajdevi is the composition of the two Indian words Raj and Devi. Raj means state or kingdom or Monarchy and Devi means goddess or holy woman. Hence the literal meaning of Rajdevi is the Goddess of the Kingdom or the holy woman of the state/kingdom or Royal Goddess.

Description
The temple of Rajdevi is located at the campus of the Ram Mandir complex. The people of Janakpur decorate the Rajdevi Mandir during Sharadiya Navratri. The royal goddess is worshipped in Janakpur with the salute of royal cannons and the prayer for fulfilment of wishes.

Tradition of Bali
There is a tradition of goats sacrifice (Balipradan) in the temple on 8th and 9th day during the Durga Puja festival. Devotees from different parts of India and Nepal come here to participate on the occasion of Balipradan.