Located in the narrow lane called Ghadiyali Pol near the Mandvi Gate, the Amba Mata temple is believed to be more than 2000 years old. Along with the idol of Amba Mata, the temple also houses the idols of goddess Lakshmi and Lord Narayan. It is the only temple in Baroda where the devotees stand outside the temple to pray.
Every day the idol of the “vahana” (vehicle) of the goddess is changed. These are usually picked from a set of animals like lion, tiger, elephant, nandi, garuda or a hans (swan). The temple is believed to bring prosperity and is swarmed by devotees from all over Gujarat to seek blessings.
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Harsiddhi Garba:
An interesting thing about this temple is that, it is the only place in the whole Gujarat to organize an all “Male Garba” during Navratri Festival. This is played around a collection of lamps believed to be a representation of the Goddess. Also known as the Harsiddhi Garba, it is fully dedicated to male devotees. Only males have been participating at this garba since time immemorial. Girls and boys below 15 years of age are also sometimes allowed to play garba at this venue. Men, who play garba here, tie the sacred chunri offered to Mataji around their necks.
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