Ma Bamleshwari Temple (base of hill), Dongargarh (Chhattisgarh Photo Gallery)
The Bambleshwari Temple, located in Dongargarh in the state of Chhattisgarh, India, is a significant religious site in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Bambleshwari, who is believed to be a form of the Hindu goddess Parvati. The temple is situated on a hill, which is known as Bambleshwari Hill, and is considered a holy place for devotees who visit the temple for pilgrimage.
The history of the Bambleshwari Temple can be traced back to ancient times, although there is no concrete evidence of its construction or establishment. According to legend, the temple was built by King Vikramaditya of Ujjain, who was a devotee of the goddess. It is also believed that the Pandavas, the protagonists of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, visited the temple during their exile.
The temple's architecture is unique and differs from other temples in Chhattisgarh and India overall. The temple is built in the Nagara style of architecture, which is characterized by a tall and curvilinear shikhara (tower), often with intricate carvings and designs. The Bambleshwari Temple's shikhara is approximately 160 feet high, making it one of the tallest shikharas in India. The temple complex also includes several other structures, such as a gopura (entrance gateway), a mandapa (pillared hall), and a sanctum sanctorum.
The temple is located on Bambleshwari Hill, which is part of the Satpura range of mountains. The hill is covered in lush vegetation, including dense forests of teak, sal, and bamboo, as well as a variety of shrubs and herbs. The hill's topography is characterized by steep slopes and rocky terrain, with several caves and waterfalls in the surrounding area.
The Bambleshwari Temple is a popular site for pilgrimage, with devotees visiting from all over India. The temple is particularly significant for followers of the Shakti sect of Hinduism, which worships the goddess in her various forms. The temple is also believed to have healing powers, and many devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for good health and well-being.
In the present day, the Bambleshwari Temple continues to attract a large number of pilgrims, particularly during the Navratri festival, which celebrates the goddess's victory over the demon Mahishasura. During the festival, the temple is adorned with lights and decorations, and special ceremonies and rituals are held to honor the goddess.
Chronology
- Legends suggest that the temple was established in ancient times by King Vikramaditya of Ujjain or the Pandavas during their exile, but no concrete evidence exists for these claims.
- The temple was renovated by the Kalchuri King Karnadeva in the 11th century.
- The current structure of the temple was rebuilt in the early 20th century by the queen of the princely state of Dongargarh, Rani Rupmati.
- The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Navratri, Dussehra, and Diwali.
- The Navratri festival, which takes place in the months of September or October, is the most significant festival for the temple and involves a grand fair with thousands of devotees offering prayers to the goddess.
- In recent years, the temple has undergone several renovations and modernizations to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
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