The Khodiyar Temple in Rajpara, Bhavnagar, is a significant religious site dedicated to Khodiyar Mata, a revered Hindu goddess. Here are some key details about the temple:
History and Significance
- Established: The temple was built in 1911 by Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji of Bhavnagar.
- Deity: Khodiyar Mata, a warrior goddess born in the Charan caste around 700 AD.
- Royal Connection: The temple is closely associated with the royal family of Bhavnagar and is considered the ancestral goddess of the Bhavnagar people.
Location
- Address: The temple is located on the Bhavnagar-Rajkot highway in the small village of Rajpara in the Shihore taluka of Bhavnagar district, Gujarat.
- Nearby Landmarks: It is situated near the Khodiayar Lake, which adds to its scenic beauty.
Architecture and Features
- Design: The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Hindu temple design, with intricate carvings and a serene ambiance.
- Facilities: The temple complex includes facilities for pilgrims, such as drinking water and a proper road from the temple to the Khodiyar railway station.
Cultural and Religious Activities
- Festivals: The temple is a hub of activity during festivals, especially on Sundays, Tuesdays, and full moon days (Poonam), when devotees often walk long distances to attend the auspicious aarti at dawn.
- Pilgrimages: Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple regularly, making it a vibrant center of faith and devotion.