Holy Pilgrimage – Gujarat State –( Sri Hanuman Mandir, Ambaji and Dwarakadheesa Temple) -2 at 11:21 PM

Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in Gujarat  State

 Shri Hanuman Mandir, Sarangpur

Shri Hanuman Mandir, Sarangpur is a Hindu temple located in Sarangpur, Gujarat and comes under the Vadtal Gadi of the Swaminarayan Sampraday.^[1] It is dedicated to Hanuman in the form of Kastbhanjan (Crusher of sorrows).^[2] It is the only Swaminarayan temple to have Hanuman as a central deity. In other temples, the central deity is a human form with the shrine of Hanuman along with that of Ganpati at the entrance of the temple

History and description

This temple is among the more prominent ones in the Swaminarayan Sampraday. The image of Hanuman was installed by Sadguru Gopalanand Swami. According to author Raymond Williams, it is reported that when Sadguru Gopalanand Swami installed the image of Hanuman, he touched it with a rod and the image came alive and moved. This story has become a charter for the healing ritual performed at this temple.^[1] The image of Hanuman here is a stout figure with a handlebar moustache, crushing a female demon under his foot and baring his teeth, standing among sculpted foliage full of fruit bearing monkey attendants.^[2]

Following

The image of this temple is said to be so powerful that a mere look at it by people affected by evil spirits, drives the evil spirits out of the people affected.^[3] Saturday is the designated day for a special ritual (as Saturday is dedicated to Hanuman) for those affected by mental illnesses and other disorders. They are brought to the temple to be touched by the rod used by Sadguru Gopalanand Swami during the installation ceremony of the image. This rod has now been covered in silver. The temple administration has hired a brahmin householder to act as a priest at the temple and conduct this ritual. After this, the person affected is instructed to circumambulate the shrine and repeat this after doing darshan a number of times. Some people take a special vow to do this a certain number of times or to chant the Swaminarayan Mahamantra whiles doing this.

 

 

  Ambaji

Ambaji ( Gujarati: અંબાજી, Hindi: अम्बाजी, Ambājī) is a census town in Banaskantha district in the state of Gujarat, India. Ambaji is an important temple town with millions of devotees visiting the Ambaji temple every year. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

Location and about the Temple

Ambaji mata temple is a major Shakti Peeth of India. It is situated at a distance of approximately 65 kilometres from Palanpur, 45 kilometres from Mount Abu and 20 kilometres from Abu Road,42 Kilometer from Shri Amirgadh, 50 kilometer from Kadiyadra near the Gujarat and Rajasthan border.
In the holy temple of "Arasuri Ambaji", there is no image or statue of goddess the holy "Shree Visa Yantra" is worshiped as the main deity. No one can see the Yantra with naked eye. the photography of the Yantra is prohibited.
The original seat of Ambaji mata is on gabbar hilltop in the town. A large number of devotees visit the temple every year specially on Purnima days. A large mela on Bhadarvi poornima (full moon day) is held. Every Year from all over the country people come here walking all over from their native place just to worship MAA AMBE in July. The whole Ambaji is lighted up as the whole nation lights up at the festive time of Diwali.
Gabber Hill Just 5 km away from Ambaji Temple, The famous mountain of Gabbar is situated on the border of States of Gujarat and Rajasthan, near the flow of the origin of the famous Vedic virgin river SARASWATI, on the hills of Arasur in forest, towards south-west side to ancient hills of Arvalli, at the altitude of about 480 meters, at about 1600 feet high from sea level, having at 8.33 km² (5 sq. miles area ) area as a whole, and it is in fact One of the Fifty One (51) famous Ancient Pauranik Shakti Piths - Ratnaji M.DesaiThe Centre of Cosmic Power of India and it is the original holy place of Mata Ambaji, where the piece of the heart of the dead body of Devi Sati fell at the top of this holy hill of Gabbar as per the legend narrated in the "Tantra Chudamani".

History

Ambaji is one of the 51 ancient Shakti Peetha Tirth in India. There are 12 main Shakti Pith Tirth, significant places of pilgrimage for the worship of Shakti, namely, Ma Bhagwati Mahakali Maha Shakti at Ujjain, Ma Kamakshi at Kanchipuram, Mata Bramaramba at Srisailam, Shri Kumarika at Kanyakumari, Mataji Ambaji at Anartgujarat, Mata Mahalaxmidevi at Kolhapur, Devi Lalita at Prayag, Vindhya Vasini at Vindhya, Vishalakshi at Varanasi, Mangalavati at Gaya and Sundari at Bangal & Guhyeshwari in Nepal.
There is no idol or picture in the temple but a simple cave like Gokh in the inner wall, in which A Gold Plated Holy Shakti Visa Shree Yantra having kurma back convex shape and 51 Bij letters therein, connected with that of the original Yantras of Nepal and Ujjain Shakti Piths, is also ritually installed in such a way it can be visible for devotion, but never photographed in past nor can be so done in future. The worship of this Visa Shree Yantra is done only after tying a bandage on the eyes.
Gabbar hill is situated on the border of Gujarat and Rajasthan, near the flow of the origin of the famous Vedic virgin river Sarasvati, on the hills of Arasur in forest, towards south-west side to ancient hills of Arvalli, at the altitude of about 480 meters, at about 1,600 feet (490 m) high from sea level, having at 8.33 km² (3.22 sq mi) area as a whole, and it is in fact One of the 51 famous Ancient Shakti Peeths and it is place of where the heart of the deadDevi Sati fell at the top of hill of Gabbar as per the legend narrated in the "Tantra Chudamani". The Mountain or Hill of Gabbar has also a small temple fortified from the western side and there are 999 steps to go up to the mountain and reach this holy temple at the top of Gabbar Hill. A Holy Lamp is constantly burning on this hill temple facing exactly in front of Visa Shree Yantra of Nij Mandir of Mata Shri Arasuri Ambica. There are many more beautiful sightseeing Places on Gabbar together with a sunset point, Cave and Swings of Mataji and Trips through a ropeway. As per recent study Ambaji Temple was constructed by the Suriyavans Emperor Arun Sen, the ruler of Vallabhi in 4th Century A.D.
Ambaji town is known for possessing mines which produce fine quality marble and granite

Nearest Place

Kamakshi Mandir

Just 1 km away from Ambaji near Kumbharia Jain Temple on Khedbrahma Highway, there is a modern architect of Kamakshidevi Temple Complex, where all the 51 Shakti Pith, the centre of cosmic power are reconstructed and installed in a single complex so as to give total information to the visitors and devotees of the great Shakti Sampraday about the various incarnations of Adhya Shakti mata.

Kailash Hill Sunset

A Picnic cum Pilgrimage Place : Just one and half km away from Ambaji on Khedbrahma Highway, there is a beautiful Shivalaya on the top of Kailash tekari, where one can go only by climbing the steps and walking on a wonderful hilly area of Kailash Tekari. The exploring Kailash tekari is always a pleasant experience for visitors, along with its beautiful Sunset Point. Moreover, The Temple Trust has recently constructed a big Artistic Stone Gate at the Temple of Mahadev on Kailash Tekari, which is also administered by Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust.

Mansarovar

Man Sarovar is behind the main temple. It is said to have been constructed by Shri Tapishanker, a Nager Devotee of Ambaji from Ahmedabad, during the year 1584 to 1594. There are two temples on two sides of this holy tank, one is of Mahadev and another is Ajay Devi, who is believed to be the sister of Mata Ambaji .The visitors and devotees use to take holy bath in this Man Sarovar. it is also very important source of history of Ambaji that there is an ancient Monument of Scripts Writings and Old Carvings on Rock Stone "Shilalekh" of Raja Maldev, dated Hindu Calendar Samvat year 1415, in Ajay Devi Mandir. The Temple Trust has also undertaken the renovation projects in respect of Holy Man Sarovar, and its temples and surroundings, behind the main Temple.

Koteshwar

• Just 8 km away from Ambaji near the Origin of the Vedic Vargin River Saraswati, there is an ancient temple of Shri Koteshwar Mahadev, attached with a Holy Kund and the flows of river Saraswati from the Mouth of Cow Gaumukh, incurved in a rock.

• As per a legend there was an Ashram of Rushi Valmiki, the author of Ramayana, near Valmiki Mahadev temple and the King of Mevad, Maha Rana Pratap had renovated this holy temple, It is said that during the Mutiny of Independence in 1857, Nana Saheb Peshwa had taken his abode in the cave of this temple. This Place is a beautiful & peaceful in forest

 

 

Atmajyoti Ashram                  

Atmajyoti Ashram is a Hindu temple in Vadodara in Gujarat

 Dwarakadheesh Temple

The Dwarakadheesh temple (Gujarati: દ્વારકાધીશ મંદિર) is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here by the name Dwarkadhish, or 'King of Dwarka'. It is situated at Dwarka, Gujarat, which is believed to have been built after the historic Dvarka city, the Kingdom of Krishna himself which submerged in to the ocean after the Mahabharata war. The main shrine of the 5-storied building, supported by 72 pillars, is known as Jagat Mandir or Nija Mandir, and is believed to be 2500 years old. The Dwarkadhish Temple is Pushti Marg Temple hence it follows the guidelines and rituals created by Shree Vallabacharya and Shree Vitheleshnathji.
The present temple was built in 16th century CE, while the original temple was believed to have been built by Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, over the hari-griha (Lord Krishna's residential place) and became part of the Char Dham pilgrimages considered most sacred by Hindus in India, after Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th century reformer and philosopher, visited the shrine and even today a memorial within the temple is dedicated to his visit. Dwarakadheesh is the 108th Divya Desam of Lord Vishnu on the subcontinent, glorified in the Divya Prabandha sacred texts

Etymology

The town of Dwaraka or Dwarka is the first part of the name while 'adi' or 'adee' means first and 'eesh' means lord. The total sum means the temple of Dwaraka's first lord.

History

The town of Dwarka in Gujarat has a history that dates back centuries, and is mentioned in the Mahabharat as the Dwaraka Kingdom. Situated on the banks of river Gomti, the city's legend for being the capital of Lord Krishna. The ancient city was submerged by raging sea waters 8 times, but the remains do still exist.^{[citation needed]}

Architecture

A temple was built at the site around 400 BC by Vajranabhji, the great grandson of Lord Krishna, however the present structure was built during the 16th century in a typical Chalukyan style of architecture. The beautiful temple rises up to a height of 51.8 mts. Also known as the Jagat Mandir, the temple has two Sikhara. The Nij shikhar (The longer sikhar) is where the deity of Lord Dwarkadhish is placed. The huge temple consists of 60 exquisitely carved pillars and a number of sculptures that depict the influence of various dynasties such as the Guptas, Pallavas and Chavdas (referring to Chavda Kingdom) that ruled Dwarka over the years.
The entrance to the temple is from the north, also known as the Moksha Dwaar while towards the south is the Swarg Dwaar, from where a series of steps leads down to the banks of river Gomti. According to legend, the temple was constructed in a single day by Vishwakarma, the lord of construction. The deity of Lord Dwarkadhish is made of shiny black stone and is about 2.25 ft in height. The four hands of the Lord carries a conch, wheel, a mace and a lotus each and is popularly known as 'Shankh Chakra Gada Padma Chaturbhuj'. It is said that the deity was hidden for years to protect it from invaders while another deity brought from the Rukmini temple was installed in its absence. The original deity was reinstalled during the 16th century after the construction of the new temple.

Temple specialties

• The flag atop the temple shows the sun and moon.
• The flag is changed from 5 times a day, but the symbol remains the same.
• The pristine condition of the temple and an important discovery in its surrounding has led to the nomination of UNESCO world cultural heritage site status to the temple.
• There are two styles of building a temple, Dwarkadhish temple is built in Shaiv style whereas Bet-Dwarka temple is built in Vaishnav style

Salient features

• The temple is a five-storey structure built on seventy-two pillars.
• The temple spire is 78.3m high.
• The temple is constructed of limestone which is still in pristine condition.
• The temple shows intricate sculptural detailing done by successions of dynasties that ruled the region. The structure was not expanded much by these works.
• Lord Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, is said to have built the original temple of Dwarkadhish over the hari-griha (Lord Krishna's residential place).
• The sanctum of the temple is formed by the Jagat Mandir, or Nija Mandir, dating back at least 2500 years.
• The Jagat Mandir has a tall tower and a hall of audience.
• There are two entrances to the temple. The main entrance (north entrance) is called "Moksha Dwara" (Door to Salvation). This entrance takes one to the main market. The south entrance is called "Swarga Dwara" (Gate to Heaven).
• Outside this doorway are 56 steps that leads to the Gomati River.

Char Dham

The temple is one of the holiest Hindu Char Dham (four divine sites) sites comprising Rameswaram, Badrinath, Puri and Dwarka.^[1] Though the origins are not clearly known, the Advaita school of Hinduism established by Sankaracharya, who created Hindu monastic institutions across India, attributes the origin of Char Dham to the seer.^{[citation needed]} The four monasteries lie across the four corners of India and their attendant temples are Badrinath Temple at Badrinath in the North, Jagannath Temple at Puri in the East, Dwarakadheesh Temple at Dwarka in the West and Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameswaram in the South. Though ideologically the temples are divided between the sects of Hinduism, namely Saivism and Vaishnavism, the Char Dham pilgrimage is an all Hindu affair.^[2] There are four abodes in Himalayas called Chota Char Dham (Chota meaning small): Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri - all of these lie at the foot hills of Himalayas.^{[citation needed]} The name Chota was added during the mid of 20th century to differentiate the original Char Dhams.^{[citation needed]} The journey across the four cardinal points in India is considered sacred by Hindus who aspire to visit these temples once in their lifetime.^[3] Traditionally the trip starts are the eastern end from Puri, proceeding in clockwise direction in a manner typically followed for circuambulation in Hindu temples.

 

Dwarakanagari – Submerged Dwaraka

(Suvarna Dwaraka)

The holy town of Dwarka (Lat.22'15'N Long. 69'E) in Jamnagar district of Gujarat State is believed to be the legendary city of Dwarka built by Lord Sri Krishna between 3500 and 5000 years ago. According to the epic Mahabharata the city in due course was submerged by the sea'. The Harivansh, an appendix to the Mahabharata says that Dwarka was situated on the bank of the river Gomati where it joins the western sea. The submergence of Dwarka and the cause of submergence are of historical and oceanographic interest because of historic Dwarka is likely to throw light on the Dark Age of Indian history.

The seven-storeyed temple of Dwarkadhish or Ranchodji at Dwarka rises to a height of 43 m at the confluence of the river Gomati with the Arabian Sea. The inner temple is assign- able to the 13th century AD and the subsequent enlargement in the form of an assembly hall known, as Ladwa mandap and the awe-inspiring sikhara are datable to the 15th century. There are some early temples on the bank of the Gomati river.

Within the enclosure of the Dwarkadhish temple complex shrines dedicated to Pradyumnaji, Devakiji, Purushottamji, Kuseshvar Mahadev and also the Sharda Peeth established by Adi Shankra Charya in the 9th century can be seen. A hundred years ago large boats could reach the Gomati ghat but the stonewall built by the erstwhile Gyakwad State in 1890 narrowed its mouth. A sand bar has now stopped the discharge of Gomati waters into the sea. The temple of Sea God or Samudra narayana, also known as Varun Devta or Chakra Narayan, which is situated near the ancient harbor at the western extremity of, is an important landmark from the point of view of archeological investigations.

The occurrence of a distinct ceramic ware known as the Red Polished Ware in layer 8 and the Lustrous Red Ware in layers 10 and 10A clearly distinguishes the early historic deposit from the Past and Historic. Layer 9 is yellowish sand and layer 10 is grayish silt, while layer 10A is pinkish sand and layer 11 almost the same without any artifact. The stemmed bowl and a miniature bowl of averted rim found in Dwarka excavation are comparable in form, fabric and treatment to those from Rangpur III. The excavation in 1979-80 pushed back the antiquity of Dwarka from 15th century AD to 15th century 'BC and suggested the destruction of a coastal settlement by sea about 3500 years ago.

In all, eight settlements can be distinguished at Dwarka (IAR 1979-80, 22 ff). The first settlement made in the 15th century BC was submerged or washed away and so also the second one made in the 10th century BC. After a long gap the third settlement was made in the 1st century BC/AD as suggested by the Red Polished Ware and copper coins known as Kansha Varna It is during this phase that Temple I was built. The lime-plastered surface of its stone masonry still retaining a few lines of red ochre painting suggests that the plinth was open to view above the then working level. After the sea destroyed the first temple the second temple came to be built on the ruins of the first. When the second temple was also destroyed, the third temple dedicated to Vishnu or Vasudeva was built in the 9th century. It was perhaps in the 12th century a storm-wave blew away the roof leaving only the walls and plinth.

The fourth temple came into existence soon after. The present temple of Dwarkadhish is the fifth in the series. Temples I to V represent respectively settlements III to VII and the modern town is the eighth settlement at Dwarka.

The Third Expedition exposed structures SE of DWK-SN transit line at four locations 200 to 700 m seaward of Samudra Narayan temple by removing the vegetation and sediment.' It is observed that large well- dressed blocks of limestone (1.5 X 1 X 0.5 and 1 X 0.75 X 0.3m) used in construction have been partly disturbed but the plinths of some of the structures are in tact. For purposes of convenience the structural remains are designated 'A' through 'D'. Structure 'A' near buoys 12 - 13 is the nearest to Samudra Narayan and 'D' the farthest near buoys 26 - 27. Structure A has two arms. It is difficult to say whether these structural remains form part of a single large building. But the crescents plan and the recovery of two moonstones (candrasila) from the neighborhood suggest the existence of a temple, for candrasila is the first step at the entrance to a temple. One of them has a wedge-shaped slit on the margin for joining.

The Fourth Expedition in April 1986 found that the top stones of the masonry of the structures were disturbed by current and swell. In fact they lay under a thick mantle of sediment held by vegetation. The overburden was removed and trenches were dug on either side to expose at least a couple of courses of masonry. The Fourth Expedition, though of very short duration, could discover four 3-holed stone anchors of the type found in Syria and Cyprus and used during the 14th - 12th century BC. A large one is damaged but it was retrieved carefully. As the sea became very rough by the end of December the Expedition had to leave hurriedly. The experience of working in different months from October to May in four expeditions has shown that the proper season for exploration is from mid-November to mid-February even though in November and December heavy snow fall in Kashmir brings severe cold wind to Kachchh- Saurashtra and the sea becomes suddenly choppy. For instance, on 13th December 1986 the sea became so rough that waves 5 to 6 m high were breaking 200 m from shore, In the Third and Fourth Expeditions probing with an iron rod indicated locations of structures in the sea and vegetation was removed. The Fifth Expedition was highly successful in uncovering a massive bastion and fort walls besides three other structures -- all in situ . Hundreds of architectural members are lying loose in the seabed within 800 m of SN temple. Five structures in situ were uncovered after removing vegetation and sand overlying the structures with an airlift or air jet. In several places small trenches had to be dug along the margin of structures with an air jet to trace a few courses of the masonry.

There is always the possibility of dislodging stones from the masonry if the sediments sealing the structures or acting as buttress on sides are removed in excavation. To avoid damage to structures due to strong current and swell, lower courses were not exposed. What is significant in the case of structures exposed beyond 600 m seaward of SN temple is that the building blocks of prismatic shape in situ give at least a partial plan of the structures. For instance, among the structural remains of Period I (Past and Historic) in the lower levels the bastion, fort wall and the corner of a rectangular building could be identified. It was not possible to reach the foundation of these structures, but it appears from the scoured plinth of the bastion, the builders heaped up boulders in seabed to build a wall or pier in coursed rubble masonry. The bastion and fort wall are fairly in tact up to 3 courses, but the maximum length traced is about 6 m in a couple of instances and less in others. The following structures are significant from the point of view of their utility, plan and chronology.

In order to ascertain the cultural sequence and to expose at least a couple of courses of masonry 14 small trenches were dug near the structures. Trench 10 dug near buoy 39 may be taken as representative of the stratigraphy of other trenches. Layer 1, 0.3 m thick, consists of fine sand, layer 2, 0.7 m thick, is composed of shingle and layer 3, 0.5 m thick, contains dead coral sand and shells; layer 4 about 1 m thick, is also sand in which a char blade has been found.

Airlift technique was adopted for digging within the caisson to dig trenches on the sides of structures. All drawings were prepared underwater

                               

Dwaraka Nagari Popular  Myth

(1) Dwarka was considered as Capital at Shree Krishna hile Bet Dwarka as residence. Shree Krishna used to conduct his religious assembly at Dwarka.

(2) Gopi Lake is located 14 kms. A way from Dwarka. Soil of Gopi talav is yellow in color while it is extremely smooth. There is myth that after leaving ' Vruj' , Krishna never gone back to 'Vruj'. During Krishna's Childhood, he played ras leelas many times with gopies (young female inhabitant of Vruj). They traveled from 'Vruj' to Dwarka, to meet Shree Krishna. They after playing Ras Leelas again with Shree Krishna, on night of 'Sharad Purnima', they offered their lives to soil of this land and hence this land has become popular as 'Gopi Talav'.

(3) Rukhmini Temple (Temple one of Shree Krishna's Patranis), is located 2 kms a away from Dwarka There is a myth associated with it once Krishna and Rukhmini went to 'Durvasha rushi' to invite him at Dwarka. He was agreed on the condition that they (Krishna & Rukhmini) have to carry the chariot instead of any animal. Krishna & Rukhmini happily agreed to do so. While driving the chariot, Rukhmini became thirsty. Then Krishna stopped the chariot and made water of Holy River Ganga. 'Durvasha' annoyed by the action and curse Rukhmini to stay away from Shree Krishna Hence Rukhmini temple is located 2 kms. Away from Dwarka's Jagat Mandir.

Krishna Incarnation - Purna Purshottam Shri Krishna

Five thousand years ago a unique, transcendental event occurred on this earth and that event was the birth of Shri Krishna in India.

Shri Krishna is at the top among those who dedicated their lives to a purpose. He assumed the human form and was born on this earth to demonstrate how the life should be led in sorrows, sufferings and happiness. The Shri Krishna was the apostle of perfection, perfect to core. The life of Shri Krishna was so glorious, noble and yet selfless that one can hardly find a parallel of it in the history. Shri Krishna is described as the outstanding personality of the earth. He possesses all the characteristics of such epoch making personality. As he is complete in every aspect, he is known as 'Purna Purushotam '

Yadukul:
Yadavas belong to Yadukul. According to Panini the great grammarian, there were two groups of Yadavas, who had republic form of government. The Andhank group was ruling in the area around Mathura. Ugrasen (grand father of Shree Krishna) was the president of the republic. The word 'king' was used with reference to Ugrasen, though Andhank was a republican form of Government. (It is to be taken for the president of a republic.)

In the same manner the other republic of the Yadavas was Vrushini republic. The contemporary leader of this republic was Akrurji. Vasudevajee belonged to Vrushini group of Yadavas. Shri Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudevajee. Both republics had a great deal to fear from aggressive imperialism of Jarasangha, whose power was spreading very fast. Jarasangha, the king of Magadh, had an ambition of bringing as many territories under his unitary rule. This was a great danger to the republican form of government.

At last Jarasangha had realized that mere aggression would not help him since every citizen of the republic was a soldier and would fight to the last drop of his blood and would not hesitate to sacrifice his life for the protection of his motherland. Hence, he decided to divide and rule.

Jarasangha, in order to create a split amongst the Yadavas, gave his two daughters Asti and Prapti in marriage to Kansa, the son of Ugrasen, who was the president of one of the two republics. Kansa was known to be inclined towards the imperial form of Government. The prestige of Kansa increased after this alliance. The entire kingdom of Magadh was at his back and call now.

In the republic, Kansa had no special privileges, nor was he an heir apparent. Jarasangha instigated his son-in-low, Kansa. With the support of Jarasangha, Kansa became ambitious and craved for power. He began to dream of achieving unitary power, all concentrated in himself. He began initiating efforts to destroy the republic and to establish his own dominion. Thus Jarasangha, intelligent as he was, fully utilized Kansa to create destruction amongst Yadavas’ republics.

Kansa in order to establish his autocratic rule began his attempts to terrorize the citizens. He arrested Ugrasen, his father and took over the reigns of power in his hand. Kansa used to threaten repeatedly the powerful section of the people saying,' If you do not fall in line with me, I will invite aggression by my father-in- law Jarasangha.'

Thus, Kansa imposed himself as a king.

Accordingly, in Dwapara Yuga (the third of four ages according to Hindu mythology) when the rulers became inhuman, acted like demons, Shri Krishna incarnated in the North Indian city called Mathura to destroy them. Even the greatest of great Rishis (illumined sages) and deities are unable to describe Shri Krishna's Lila (the exploits, acts and plays of Krishna in an incarnation).

Though Krishna incarnated at Vasudeva's place, he however, went to Gokul at Nandbaba's place to make cowherds' children happy. Having seen the Lila of Shri Krishna, they turned blessed. Right from childhood he started destroying demons. On the very sixth day of his birth he killed the female demon Putna . He also killed many mightiest demons viz. Trunavarta, Keshi, Aristhasur, Bakasur, Pralambasur etc. in his childhood. During the same period he also killed Kali Nag (the cobra de capello) and made holy water of river Yamuna, poison free. He made cowherds' wives happy by the bliss of his Cosmic Dances.

Having completed Lila at Gokul, he returned to Mathura and killed his wicked maternal uncle King Kansa with all his cruel associates and liberated his parents from jail. He reinstated Ugrasen as the King of Mathura. On the very easy triumph over multimillion army of Jarasangh, all deities from heaven started showering flowers and praised Shri Krishna. He also shifted all his sleeping relatives and natives of Pur to Dwarika by the power of Yoga.

After the famous war of Mahabharat, he advised Udhava about Self-knowledge . During his last days, Krishna arranged for a mass destruction of all wicked Yadavas of Yaduvansha. Then, Maha Yogi Shri Krishna departed.

Sri Krishna’s Horoscope:

The chart has been prepared from
a poem by Soordas, a fifteenth
century poet of Bhakti Marg.

Ascendent Tauras (Vrishbha)
Moon, Saturn and Mars are in
exalted positions, sun, mercury,
Jupiter and Venus are in their
own houses.

Interpretations

Moon in Tauras in the First House
The person will have a handsome appearance, impecable deportment, catholicity and extensive renown. The person will be endowed with an extremely attractive body, will enjoy vast luster and riches.

Ketu (Dragon's tail) in the First House
The person will have numerous high-class pleasures, but will suffer ignominy tribulations and scandals.

Sun in Leo in the First House
A superior artistic ability will be his endowment. The person will have lascivious tendencies. A natural leader, ambitious, determined and honest, magnetic, intuitive and incentive. Fond of children, drama and high office.

Mercury in Virgo in the Fifth House
A firm moralist, extricated from all difficulties. Well-versed in the Holy Scriptures. A proficient conjurer who will practice his skill to conquer his adversaries.

Venus in Libra in the Sixth House
He will be liked by the rulers. He will attain a prominent position in the armed forces, and will prevent inhuman harm to a great many people.

Saturn in Libra in the Sixth House
The person will have an aristocratic status, and will obtain a pre-eminent position in his own society. He will be obstinate, rich and in dire fear of his adversaries.

Rahu (Dragon's head) in the Seventh House
The person will be gallant, valorous and determined, but will suffer through inordinate sensuality and extravagant sex relations. Will receive gains and delight from women.

Mars in Capricorn in the Ninth House
The person will be guilty of an enormity concerning his parents. He will attain the status of a ruler.

Jupiter in Pisces in the Eleventh House
The person will be endowed with great nobility. He will be valours and have acute mental ablity. A long life will be enjoyed by him in addition to luster and vast opulence.

[From Essence of Hindu Sidereal Astrology
by Mrs. Dorothy Robertson.]

 

LONG DISTANCE TRAINS TO DWARKA

Train No.	Name	Day	Arrival	Departure
6337	Okha Ernakulam Express	SAT, Mon	2.15	2.20
204	Okha Viramgam Passenger	Daily	3.12	3.17
9265	Okha-Deheradun Exp	FRI	6.10	6.15
8402	Okha- Puri Exp	WED	7.30	7.35
5635	Okha- Gauhati Exp	FRI	11.10	11.15
9006	Saurashtra Mail	Daily	12.55	13.00
9569	Okha Varanasi Exp	Thur	13.30	13.35
208	Okha Bhavnagar Passenger	Daily	14.25	14.30
5045	Okha Gorakhpur	SUN	18.45	18.50
9268	Okha Porbandar	MON	21.00	21.05
248	Okha Ahmedabad Passenger	Daily	22.25	22.30
6338	Okha Ernakulam Express	FRI, SUN	16.40	16.45
203	Okha Viramgam Passenger	Daily	23.45	16.45
9266	Okha-Deheradun Exp	MON	16.40	16.45
8401	Okha- Puri Exp	TUE	14.20	14.30
5636	Okha- Gauhati Exp	THU	5.15	5.20
9005	Saurashtra Mail	Daily	15.30	15.35
9570	Okha Varanasi Exp	MON	14.20	14.30
207	Okha Bhavnagar Passenger	Daily	12.55	13.35
5046	Okha Gorakhpur	SAT	5.15	5.20
9267	Okha Porbandar	Fri	3.07	3.17
247	Okha Ahmedabad Passenger	Daily	4.00	4.05

 

 

 

5. Pimpleshwar Mahadev (Saldi)

 

Pimpleshwar Mahadev is a historical Hindu temple of Lord Shiva located in the village of Saldi (District of Mehsana), Gujarat, India. In Hinduism, Lord Shiva is also called "Mahadev" - The God of all Gods. Pimpleshwar Mahadev is famous for its annual traditional carnival "Saladi no Melo" (Fun Fare) on the last Monday of the holy month of Shraavan (August) in the Hindu calendar. Most temples of lord Shiva have a unique structure called the Shiv Linga which is considered to be a sacred symbol of Lord Shiva. The Pimpleshwar Mahadev in Saldi does not have the usual Shiv linga. Instead it has a Jaladhari - a continuous flow of water from an aquifer below the ground. This natural water flow is considered to be a sacred sign by the worshipers and another indication of the presence of Lord Shiva at this site.

 

Geography

Saldi is located about 60 km northwest of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Saldi is reachable by car, bus or public transportation. Ahmedabad International Airport (AMD) is the nearest airport with domestic and international flights. This temple is famous for its surrounding rural landscape and Pimpal trees, Bili Trees and Vakhada trees of historic age in the surrounding area of the temple. Pimpal trees are particularly attractive and important for Hindu pilgrims to the temple because the decades old trees are considered sacred and symbolize happiness, prosperity, longevity and good luck. The temple has not been renovated for at least 100 years, and therefore it portrays an old style outlook that is attractive to pilgrims for reasons of nostalgia and a reminder of a by-gone era.

History

Salvabhai Patel, son of Teja Patel, migrated from Champaner, Gujarat and raised his family in the area which ultimately came to be known as Saldi. Approximately 200 years or seven generations following the founding of Saldi village, one of the cows of a herder named Petha Patel was found to be regularly releasing her milk over one location under a Pimpal tree, where the Jaladhari water source was ultimately found. In the Hindu tradition, worshipers of Shiva pay homage to the Shiv linga by pouring milk over it. Thus, the cow's offering of her milk at this site without any assistance, led to the people of Saldi to attribute this phenomenon to the presence of Lord Shiva. Since then, the current site of Pimpleshwar Mahadev is considered to be very sacred by the pilgrams and villagers alike, and it has become famous throughout the state of Gujarat over the years.
The first temple or shrine was put in place by Petha Patel of Saldi at this site, dating back to the Hindu Year Sanvat 1143 (approximately 924 years ago). In the following centuries, Pimpleshwar Mahadev gained more popularity as a place of pilgrimage and worship for Hindus across the state of Gujarat. The current building was constructed and renovated by Sayajirao Gaekwad, the ruler of the state Baroda in 1895 during the British colonial era in India.

Campus & guest house

The entire campus for Mahadev is spread over 50 acres. It includes the temples of Umiya,^[1] Amba, Lakshmi Mata and Nag-Devta. The Hindu temple has images of Ganesha, Parvati and Hanuman carved in stone and also houses a natural spring that is considered holy. Additionally facilities include an exhibition hall, a meeting room, guest rooms, and a lodging (Bhojanalay). This historical temple awaits renovation to include several additional buildings and creative parks. A move for major renovation is underway and expected to start in near future.

Daily Activities

This beautiful Temple is offering Daily Prayer, traditional rituals, Dhoon, Meditation and Aarti to all. Devotees from nearby villages walk to Mahadev regularly....carrying milk, Diya, Dhoop and water in hand and offer to Pimpleshwar Mahadev during Darshan. Many of them being seen walking barefoot! Priest smeared hand made sandalwood paste on forehead of devotees and blessed. Devotees do pradakshina around sacred Pipal Tree ( Fig Tree) and continue meditation and chanting as they do walk. Pimpleshwar Mahadev attracts large number of tourist and pilgrims from all over India, Canada, England and United states of America throughout the year.

Maha Shivratri

Maha Shivratri is dedicated to the worship of Pimpleshwar Mahadev. Devotees celebrate Maha Shivaratri with observing fasting, singing bhajans and Dhoon , maha puja, recital of Sanskrit sholaks, offering of prayers, flowers, fruits, Shreefal ( coconut ), and special food that is prepared in honor of the deity. Brahmin priests performs Ladhu-Rudra Yagna and char prahar ni PUJA in different time of the day and night. Worshiping Pimpleshwar Mahadev or Lord Shiva on Maha Shivratri is believed to bestow one with happiness and prosperity.

Shravan Month Special POOJA

In holy month of Shravan month thousands of devotees visit this Mahadev for prayer and get blessed. Thousands of pilgrim walk to this temple in groups chanting Shiva Mantra and Dhoon, playing traditional musical and dancing. They participate the Darshan of Idol Nandi and Shiva and performed 1-5 rounds of Pradakshina. Devotees Chant Shiva mantra with great shraddha as they offer Milk, water, Dhoop and Bili Patra to Lord Shiva.

Annual Carnival - Saladi no Melo

Very Special annual celebration of Religious carnival known as "SALADI no MELO" on last Monday of Shravan month is famous worldwide.About quarter million Devotees of all age ,religion and casts get to gather and enjoy the traditional celebration.

Bili Patra Pooja

Special puja with offering of Bili Patra to lord Shiva is unique tradition. Many Devotee with help of local Brahmin priest offer 108, 1008 or one Lakh Bili patra to Pimpleshwar Mahadev along with mantra recitation. Approximately 10 million Bili Patras offers to MAHADEV reciting "Om Namah Shivay" and Bilvastakam - Shiva mantra chanting during shravan month every year. Volunteers proud to collect these leaves from holy BILI TREE from forest of panchmahal and across the state and get blessed for great contribution.
Bili Patra are leaves of Bili ^[2](Bilva, Bel, Bael, Vilvam or English - wood apple tree ) and offer to Mahadev - મહાદેવ seeking good health, prosperity, satisfaction in current life and to destroys all sins committed during past three lives and attain Moksha - salvation

Mundan ceremony

Mundan or Chudakarma is the ceremony in which a child's head is shaved for the first time, leaving a tuft or shikha on the crown. It is said that birth hair carries undesirable ideas and traits from past, so they need to be removed and new ideas full of eminence should be grown instead.^[3] Mundan is one of the rituals performed at Pimpleshwar Mahadev.^[4] People come to Pimpleshwar from far and wide to have this ceremony performed for their child

 

Om Tat Sat

                                                        

(Continued...)                                                                                                                              

(My humble  salutations to the great devotees ,  wikisources  and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the collection )