Hindu Temple in Gujarat | |
Shri Khodiyar Mandir: A Sacred Hindu Temple in Gujarat Gujarat, a state rich in history, culture, and spirituality, is home to numerous revered Hindu temples. Among them, the Shri Khodiyar Mandir, located in Rajpara near Bhavnagar, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. This temple is not only an architectural and spiritual landmark but also a symbol of deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage. Dedicated to Khodiyar Mata, a widely worshipped folk goddess, the temple attracts thousands of devotees every year and plays a vital role in preserving the spiritual fabric of the region. Historical Significance The origins of Shri Khodiyar Mandir can be traced back to the 13th century during the reign of Maharaja Ranji Gohil, a prominent ruler of the Gohil dynasty. It was during his rule that Khodiyar Mata was embraced as the Kuldevi, or family goddess, of the Gohils. Revered for her divine powers and protective nature, Khodiyar Mata quickly became known as a Lokdevi—a goddess of the people. Her popularity spread beyond royal families and deeply into the hearts of the common people of Gujarat and Saurashtra. The first formal shrine dedicated to the goddess was built by Maharaja Wakhatsinhji in Rajpara. Although it was modest in size, it became a focal point of devotion and community gatherings. As the number of devotees grew and the temple gained spiritual importance, the need for a more accessible and grand structure was recognized. Modern Development A major transformation of the temple took place under Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Gohil, a devout follower of Khodiyar Mata. He envisioned the temple not only as a place of worship but also as a center for social welfare and development. Under his leadership, the temple complex was expanded significantly. He invested in the construction of a well-planned road leading to the temple and established a dedicated railway station (Khodiyar Mandir Station) nearby to improve access for pilgrims. Additionally, a hospital and a wildlife lake were created in the nearby Bhal region as part of his broader vision for social upliftment. A water-pumping system was also installed to serve the temple and surrounding communities—parts of which are still in use today. ![]() | |
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Target Prov.: All Provinces Target City : All Cities Last Update : Aug 12, 2025 8:51 AM Number of Views: 28 | Item Owner : Khodiyar Mandir Trust Contact Email: Contact Phone: +91 9574423399 |
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