Founded in 1893 and formally established on September 1, 1927, by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the Oriental Institute of Baroda (also known as Prachya Vidhya Mandir) stands as a beacon of historical and cultural preservation. The institute was inspired from Oriental Research Institute of Mysore established by Maharaja Chamraja Wodeyar of Mysore. Initially affiliated with The Maharaja Sayajirao University of…
Shivji Ki Savari is a grand and revered chariot procession dedicated to Lord Shiva, organized by the Satyam Shivam Sundaram Samiti during the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. This vibrant event features the procession of a beautifully adorned chariot carrying the idols of Lord Shiva and his divine family around the city of Baroda. The Chariot and Its Idols The…
Located in the Dandia Bazar area of Baroda, the Premanand Sahitya Bhavan was established in November 1916. This initiative was inspired by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, reflecting his dedication to fostering literary and cultural development. Originally known as the Gujarati Sahitya Sabha, the institution was renamed to Premanand Sahitya Bhavan in January 1944. Founders and Purpose The establishment of the…
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…
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…