Nestled in the narrow lane of Ghadiyali Pol near Mandvi Gate, the Amba Mata Temple is a revered site believed to be over 2,000 years old. This ancient temple is distinguished not only by its historical significance but also by its unique customs and practices. The Temple The Amba Mata Temple is dedicated to the goddess Amba Mata and also houses idols…
November 2012
Popularly known as “Narsinhji no Varghodo,” this grand procession is a cherished tradition that has been celebrated for over 280 years. Held annually on Kartik Poornima, or Dev-Diwali, the procession commemorates the symbolic wedding of Lord Narsinhji with the plant goddess Tulsi. The Narsinhji Temple At the heart of this tradition is the Narsinhji Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in…
Amidst the clutter of modern concrete buildings and narrow lanes, the Narsinhji Temple stands out as a vibrant relic of history. This colorful edifice, adorned with delicate wooden carvings, is more than 282 years old, serving as a spiritual sanctuary amid the urban sprawl. Historical Context The temple’s origins trace back over 282 years when the idol of Lord Narsinhji…
Tucked away in the historic Dandia Bazaar area of Vadodara, the temple in Jambubet stands as a testament to the city’s rich spiritual heritage. Established in 1835, this venerable shrine, often referred to by the names of the sons of its builder, boasts a legacy that spans over 200 years. The temple’s origin is steeped in divine inspiration. It is…
Built in 1786, the Khandoba Temple stands as a testament to the rich spiritual and historical tapestry of Baroda. Commissioned by Fatehsinhrao Gaekwad, brother of Maharaja Sayajirao I, the temple has since been expanded by subsequent Gaekwad rulers to form the grand precinct we see today. The temple is dedicated to Lord Khandoba and Mahalsa Devi, revered as the family…
Located in the heart of Vadodara’s Raopura area, near Chittekhan, stands the revered Bhid Bhanjan Maruti Temple, a significant cultural and historical landmark for the Ramanuj community. This temple, built by the esteemed Shri Jani Mohanlal Harishankar, holds a special place in the local tradition and devotion. The temple is now also known as Chittesthan Hanuman Mandir. The temple’s unique…
Located near Mandvi Gate, just opposite Sarkar Wada, stands the 211-year-old Vitthal Mandir. Commissioned by Maharani Gahinabai, wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad II, this temple was constructed in the late 1860s using the Maharani’s private funds. It houses idols of Lord Vithoba, along with his consorts Satyabhama Devi and Rukmani Devi, which were brought from Maharashtra. The Temple:The temple complex…
Nestled in a serene corner of the Karelibaug area, the Bahucharaji Temple has been a spiritual cornerstone for the city’s residents for more than 150 years. Dedicated to Goddess Bahuchar Maa, an incarnation of the mother aspect of Shakti, this temple is a vibrant center of faith. Historical Origins The temple’s origins trace back to 1763 when a devotee named…
Nestled within the maze-like lanes of Baroda’s old city, the Mairal’s Dhundiraj Ganpati Mandir stands as one of Gujarat’s oldest Ganesh temples. Established in 1844 by Gopalrao Mairal, this temple exudes an aura of tranquility and seclusion despite its location amidst the bustling cityscape. Mystical Lore The temple is steeped in mystique, bolstered by local legends of hidden treasure. According…
Located in the Mogulwada area of the old city, the Laxmi Narayan Mandir/Swami Narayan Mandir is Vadodara’s oldest temple of the Swami Narayan sect, reportedly built in the 1870s by Acharya Bhagwat Prasad, a prominent figure within the sect. The Gaekwads of Baroda, known for their devoutness, allocated 3000 Rs. for the temple’s maintenance in that era. The Temple:The temple…