Modheshwari Temple, Modhera

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Modheshwari Mata Temple
મોઢેશ્વરી માતાજી
Religion
Affiliation Hinduism
District Mehsana
Deity Modheshwari
Location
Location Modhera
State Gujarat
Country India
India Gujarat location map.svg
Om symbol.svg
Location in Gujarat, India
India location map.svg
Om symbol.svg
Modheshwari Temple, Modhera (India)
Geographic coordinates 23°35′00″N72°08′43″E / 23.5834°N 72.1454°E / 23.5834; 72.1454
Architecture
Style Solanki
CreatorKing Bhima I
Completed1026-1027 CE

Modheshwari Mata Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Modhera village of Mehsana district in Gujarat, India. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu mother-goddess Modheshwari Mata, an aspect of the divine feminine Shakti. It was built around 1026-1027 CE during the reign of the Solanki dynasty king Bhima I. [1]

Contents

Legend

According to Hindu mythology, the temple is associated with the legend of the demon Karnat, who was causing havoc in the village. Seeking protection, the saints prayed to the goddess Parvati, who then manifested as Modheshwari Mata. With her eighteen arms wielding various weapons, she defeated the demon and protected the villagers. [2]

Worship and rituals

The temple is revered as the clan deity of the Modh community, consisting of Brahmin, Vaishya, Kshatriya, and Patidar. Special poojas and rituals are organized during Chaitra Navaratri and on the Purnima of every month. The temple opens at 07:00 AM and closes at 07:30 PM.

Architecture and location

The temple complex features exquisite stone carvings and sculptures, showcasing the Solanki style of architecture. It is situated near the ruins of the famous Sun Temple in Modhera. [3]

Tourism

The Modheshwari Mata Temple is a significant tourist attraction in Modhera and is located 25 km from Mehsana. Besides the temple in Modhera, there are notable temples dedicated to the deity in various cities across Gujarat. [4]

Deities worshiped

Devi Modheshwari is depicted with eighteen arms, each holding various weapons symbolizing protection. The temple also houses an ancient temple dedicated to Bhagwan Surya (Sun God), now in ruins.

Facilities

The temple premises are well-maintained, offering a peaceful environment for worship. Ample parking facilities and a restaurant are available for visitors' convenience.

See also

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References

  1. "Modheshwari Mata Temple - An Ancient Temple of Gujarat". www.goldentriangletour.com. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  2. "SHRI MODHESHWARI MATA MANDIR NAVRATRI MAHOTSAV, MEHSANA". utsav.gov.in. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  3. Team, GanpatiSevak (2023-02-02). "Modheshwari Mata Temple Modhera: Aarti, Timings, History, HD Photos, Mantra, Chalisa". Ganpati Sevak. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  4. "Shree Modheshwari Mata Temple | श्री मोधेश्वरी माता मंदिर | Modhera Gujarat | About, Aarti, Timings, History, How to Reach". BhaktiBharat.com. Retrieved 2024-03-29.