CHAMUNDA MA – CHOTILA

chamunda ma

The Chamunda Mataji Temple at Chotila is a revered Hindu shrine located in the Surendranagar district of Gujarat, India. Here are some key details about this temple:

Location and Accessibility

  • Location: The temple is situated atop the Chotila Hill, which is about 1250 feet high.
  • Accessibility: It is located on the Ahmedabad-Rajkot highway, making it easily accessible by road3. The nearest major cities are Rajkot (around 40 miles away) and Ahmedabad (around 50 miles away).

Historical and Cultural Significance

  • Historical Background: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, an incarnation of Devi Shakti, Mahakali. It is believed that the temple was originally associated with the Sodha Parmars and later became a principal seat for the Khachar Kathis.
  • Cultural Importance: Many Gujarati communities consider Chamunda Mata to be their Kuldevi (family deity), and the temple is a significant pilgrimage site.

Temple Structure and Rituals

  • Steps to the Temple: To reach the temple, devotees must climb 620 steps.
  • Rituals and Festivals: The temple is especially crowded during Navratri and Kartik months. Various rituals like Navchandi Yagya and Chaul Kriya are performed here.
  • Temple Timings: The temple has specific timings for darshan and aarti, and no one is allowed to stay near the temple after the evening aarti.

Facilities and Amenities

  • Accommodation: There are numerous private hotels, guest houses, Dharm Shalas, and restaurants available for devotees.
  • Temple Trust: The Chamunda Mata Temple trust oversees various operations, including festivals, guest rooms, and a bhojanalaya (community kitchen).

Notable Personalities

  • Zaverchand Meghani: The celebrated writer, poet, journalist, and freedom fighter was born in Chotila.
  • Dimple Kapadia: The famous Hindi film actress was also born in Chotila.
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