- Kali
Kaalika Mata Temple
- Chithorgarh Fort,Rajasthan
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Overview
Kaalika Mata Temple is an 8th-century Hindu temple located within the Chithorgarh Fort in the Chithorgarh municipality of Rajasthan state in India. The upper parts of the structure are more recent. It predates Maharana Pratap. It has thousands of visitors every day. The goddess worshipped at this temple is an aspect of Bhadrakali, clan goddess of Panwar clan.
About The Temple
The Kaalika Mata Temple is a fascinating destination to visit in Chithorgarh, Rajasthan. The temple is consecrated to mother Goddess Kali who is the symbol of power. Originally the temple was built by Bappa Rawal for the Sun god in the 8th century but later it was converted into Kaalika Temple in 14th century AD. This ancient temple is an excellent architectural example of the Pratihara Period. The Kaalika Mata Temple not only attracts the religiously inclined people but also art lovers and tourists. Constructed on a raised podium, the Kaalika Mata Temple has wonderfully sculptured exteriors. The pillars, mandab, entrances and the ceiling of the temple display great intricate carvings. However, much of its glory was destroyed when Aladdin Khilji attacked Chithorgarh.
The temple is placed between Padhmini palace and Victory tower. The campus also has a huge vacant area where ‘Ratri Jagrans’ or night vigils are organized. Kaalika Mata temple is located on a rock with its entry gate facing east. The complex also has a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva which is known as Jogeshwar Mahadev. Earlier, the temple was built for the Sun God. Hence, the Sanctum of this temple has walls depicting Sun God surrounded by spouse and angels. The inner walls of the temple include Moon god as well. The rooftops are narrowed at the top and finely carved. The frames of the main doors are carved with Sun god as the main theme. The shrine has a strong Mauryan architectural influence.
Festivals
The temple attracts thousands of devotees during the annual fair which is held near the temple complex. People visit the temple to pay homage to Goddess Kali. The festivals of Navaratri and Deepavali are celebrated joyously in this temple.
Accessibility
Airport
The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport located at Udaipur which is about 90 km away from the temple.
Railways
The nearest railway station is Chithorgarh which is 2 km away from Kaalika Mata Temple.
Road
Bus and taxis are available from all the major cities of Rajasthan to access the Kaalika Mata temple.
Temple Address
Kaalika Mata Temple,
Chithorgarh Fort,
Chithorgarh,
Rajasthan,
Pin code - 312001.
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Protection from evil
- Salvation
- Destruction of ego
- Liberation
Shlokas
Om Hrim Shreem Klim Adya Kalika Param Eshwari Swaha
Meaning -Om, I offer my salutations to Her, the first one, dark within her existence, the ultimate primal feminine, who discards illusion to the whole truth of existence.
Jayantii Manggalaa Kaalii Bhadrakaalii Kapaalinii Durgaa Shivaa Kssamaa Dhaatrii Svaahaa Svadhaa Namostu Te
Meaning -We salute the Devi Kali, who is always victorious and always auspicious, we offer salutations to Bhadrakali Devi who wears a skull garland, we salute Shiva's consort and the embodiment of self-control and supports all beings, Devi Durga, who is Swaha as well as Swadha. We offer our salutations to you.
Om Maha Kalyai Ca Vidmahe Smasana Vasinyai Ca Dhimahi Tanno Kali Prachodayat
Meaning -Om the great Goddess Kali who stays in the ocean of life and burial grounds, we focus our energies on you, may you grant us our wishes and bless us
Kaalika Kalahey Gorey Paathuthvaam Parameshwari Mandapey Thathra Mathangi Thatha Sowmya Swayamwarey
Meaning -Let the ever charming, mother of the universe, protect us and stay in this mandap and bestow her blessing on us as mother Mathangi.
Timings
Morning 6 AM to Evening 9 PM.