Naimisharanya

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Naimishāraṇyam (also called Naimisharanya) is a very ancient and sacred forest mentioned in Hindu scriptures. Here are some key points about it:

• Location: Traditionally believed to be near the Gomati River in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India (Sitapur district).
• Spiritual Importance:
  
• It is said that sages performed great yajñas (sacrifices) and spiritual discussions here.
• The Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, Mahābhārata, and several Purāṇas begin with sages at Naimishāraṇya asking questions to Sūta Gosvāmi.
• It is considered a place where divine knowledge was shared between rishis.
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• Legends:
  
• According to one legend, Lord Brahmā created a spinning wheel (chakra) and told the sages to follow it. Wherever the wheel stopped would be the most sacred place on earth. It stopped at Naimishāraṇya.
• It is believed that visiting this place grants relief from the cycle of birth and death.
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• Current Pilgrimage Site:
  
• Pilgrims visit Chakra Tirtha, a circular pond where the chakra of Brahmā is said to have disappeared into the earth.
• Other temples and shrines dedicated to deities like Lord Vishnu and Shiva are also present.
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Would you like me to also share a pilgrim’s guide (how to visit, main temples, festivals, and rituals) for Naimisharanya?