The Haribhakti family’s legacy is a profound testament to centuries of devotion, scholarship, and social welfare. For over two and a half centuries, this distinguished family has upheld a rich tradition of philanthropy and religious dedication, beginning with Sheth Haribhai (1750-1796) and Sheth Bhaktibhai (1750-1795). Engaged in extensive business across the country, they planted the seeds of social service and devotion that their descendants have nurtured and expanded.
Throughout their history, the Haribhakti family has been instrumental in building temples dedicated to various deities across India. These temples were not merely places of worship but also centers for promoting moral values, self-restraint, humility, and prudence, reflecting the family’s commitment to religious and social principles since the 17th century.
A notable example of this dedication is the Raneshwar Mahadev Temple in Vadodara. The story of this temple begins with Ratanben Bhaktibhai Parikh, the mother of Shamalbhai Haribhakti. Ratanben, a devoted follower of Pushtimarg, experienced a divine vision in her dreams, instructing her to build a temple where a Shivalinga lay buried near an ancient lake, approximately six miles from their Haveli in the Mandavi locality of Vadodara. Initially hesitant, Ratanben was compelled to act after the vision repeated over three consecutive nights. Upon excavation, she discovered the divine Shivalinga as revealed in her dreams.
The construction of the temple began in 1799, designed in the Nagara style of architecture, renowned for its towering shikhara—a curvilinear spire rising above the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha). The Nagara style is celebrated for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which not only adorn the temple but also narrate stories from Hindu mythology and depict various deities and daily life.
Following Ratanben’s passing, Acharatben Haribhakti continued the temple’s construction and the Haribhakti family has maintained it ever since. The temple has become a vibrant cultural center, particularly notable for its Shivratri rituals, and remains a symbol of faith and devotion for thousands of Lord Shiva’s devotees. Additionally, Ishwarbhai Ratanlal Haribhakti significantly contributed to its development, solidifying the temple’s role as both a spiritual haven and a source of pride for the Haribhakti family.
This post was written in collaboration with Krutarth Bhatt.
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