Surya Mandir

Overview

Sri Surya Mandir is located at JhalraPatan, in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, India. This Hindu shrine is primarily dedicated to Lord Surya (the sun god).

About the Deity

Despite being called the Sun Temple, the presiding deity of this temple is Lord Padmanath (Sri Vishnu) who graces in his standing position. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Surya is an integral part of Lord Vishnu, and was created from the head of the Lord. Hence, the Sun God is also widely referred to as Surya Narayana. Lord Surya Narayana graces here as a four armed deity whose vigraha is made of white stone. This vigraha of the Lord is so enchanting that it is considered as one of the best idols of Lord Surya ever made. It must also be noted that the temple is built in such a way that the first rays of the sun falls directly on the feet of Lord Surya Narayana.

About the Temple

The temple’s architecture has many similarities to the famous Sun temple at Konark and is one of its kind in the state of Rajasthan. The temple is rich with beautifully carved sculptures which are a real treat to the eyes. The Rath (chariot) found in this temple is predominantly designed in the Konark style, which stands as the proof that it is indeed a Sun temple. However, the canopy found on the main entrance is built in Mugal-Rajput style of architecture.

This shrine was constructed by Maharaja Nagbhatta –II of the Pratihar Rajpoot clan in the year 813AD (Samvat 870) for propagating his religion and culture. The temple follows Pushtimarg traditions of worship.

The temple was majorly renovated in the year Shak Samwat 1871 during the reigns of Kota Maharao Ummaid Singh I and prince Kishore Singh, by their Deevan Jalim Singh. Accordingly, the consecration of the deity Shri Padam Nath Swamy was also performed by the Dheevan, with the golden Kalash being placed on the temple. This information is found inscribed near the main entrance of the temple. It also mentions a local businessman named Subedhar and the several masons who had contributed towards the temple's renovation works.

This Sun Mandir at Rajasthan is a significant shrine for the Hindus, especially for those following Sri Vaishnavism. The temple is very often confused with the Shanti Nathji, which was built almost 200 years later.

Rare Fact

The temple boasts of artistically rich sculptures on both the interior as well as the exterior. One particular statue depicting an upward blooming lotus with eight petals is noteworthy. The height of the Pinnacle is 97 ft tall. The Shikhars, Toran Dwar (bracketed gateway), prayer hall, Nij Mandir, Garbhagriha are all well crafted. The ceiling of the Mandapa carry the statuettes of great sages. This historically important temple requires better maintenance. The famous historian Cunninham terms the temple as the second Khajuraho.

Festivals

Some of the major festice celebrations of the temple include the annual Rathyatra, Janmashtami, Dussera, Viman Utsav, Bhaishakh, Poornima and Kartik Poornima

Custom & Traditions of Temple

Pooja is performed in the customary tradition of Pushtimarg. Poojas are performed four times daily to the Lord.

How To Reach Surya Mandir

By Air

The closest located airport is the Kota airport.

By Rail

Then nearest railway station is Jhalawar railway station.

By Road

The nearest Bus stop is the Jhalrapatan bus stop.

Temple Address