Sri Adi Vat Madhav Temple is at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This Sangam is the holy confluence of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati. The temple lies near the Akshayavat (Immortal Banyan Tree), inside the historic Allahabad Fort.
The temple’s main deity is Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Sri Adi Vat Madhav. The name carries great significance – “Adi” means first or eternal, “Vat” refers to the banyan tree, and “Madhav” is a divine name of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu is believed to have manifested here beneath the sacred Akshayavat tree to bless devotees. This form of Vishnu is considered ancient and powerful, and his darshan here is believed to grant spiritual liberation.
The temple’s architecture is simple and traditional. It is a small stone shrine built in the North Indian style. The idol of Lord Vishnu is enshrined beside the Akshayavat, which is considered to be one of the oldest and most sacred banyan trees in India. The tree is protected by a railing, and devotees offer prayers under its shade. The temple does not have grand ornamentation, but its spiritual importance makes it a powerful place of worship.
This temple is part of the sacred group of 12 Madhav Temples in Prayagraj, believed to have been established by ancient sages or by Lord Brahma himself to sanctify the region. It is mentioned in the Padma Purana and other holy texts. The Akshayavat tree near the temple has a legendary history—it is said to be indestructible and has survived even the great floods of time. Great rishis and devotees, including Sage Markandeya, are believed to have meditated here. The area has been a holy site for thousands of years, even before recorded history.
According to the legend, during a time of great deluge (Pralaya), when the whole universe was submerged in water, the Akshayavat tree remained untouched. It is said that Sage Markandeya once asked Lord Vishnu to show him the power of maya (illusion) and creation. The Lord granted him a vision of a baby lying on a banyan leaf, floating in the cosmic ocean. That divine baby was none other than Lord Vishnu himself. This vision occurred at the very place where the Akshayavat tree stands today. Hence, this form of Vishnu is called Adi Vat Madhav, representing his eternal presence under the banyan tree. Worshipping him here is believed to erase sins and grant moksha (liberation).
Sri Adi Vat Madhav Temple celebrates important Hindu festivals such as Magh Mela and the world-famous Kumbh Mela, which attract lakhs of devotees to the nearby Triveni Sangam. Other festivals like Makar Sankranti, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, Janmashtami, Deepavali, and Rama Navami are also observed with special prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
