IAS Gyan

Daily News Analysis

SHREE SANWARIYA SETH TEMPLE

4th October, 2023 Art & Culture

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Context

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi performed darshan and pooja at Sanwariya Seth Temple in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

Details

Location and Significance

  • The Sanwalia Ji Temples are situated on the Chittorgarh–Udaipur Highway in Rajasthan, India.
  • They are located in the towns of Bhadsora, Mandaphiya, and Chapar, approximately 40 kilometers from Chittorgarh.
  • The main deity of these temples is Lord Krishna, also known as Shri Sanwaria Seth, who is highly revered in Hinduism.

Sanwalia Ji Dham

  • Among the three temples in the region, Mandaphiya Temple is recognized as the Sanwalia Ji Dham, which translates to the "abode of Lord Krishna" or "the residence of Lord Krishna."
  • The Sanwalia Ji Temple in Mandaphiya is considered second in importance only to the Shrinath Ji Temple in Nathdwara among followers of the Vaishnav Sect.

Historical Background

  • The history of these temples dates back to the year 1840 when a cowherd named Bholaram Gurjar had a dream about three divine idols buried underground in Chhapar, Bagund village.
  • Following the dream, excavation at the site led to the discovery of three beautiful idols of Lord Krishna, matching the description in the dream.
  • One idol was taken to Mandaphiya, one to Bhadsoda, and the third remained at Chapar, where they were found, leading to the establishment of temples at all three locations.
  • These temples are situated in close proximity to each other, within a 5-kilometer radius.

Legends and Beliefs

  • According to legend, these idols were created by Naga monks and were buried underground to protect them from invaders.
  • The idols were found and preserved with the guidance of Puraji Bhagat, a renowned householder saint of the Suthar caste.

Festivals and Celebrations

  • The Sanwalia Ji Temples celebrate various major festivals and events throughout the year.
  • Some of the festivals and celebrations include Maha-Shivratri, Holi and Phooladol Festival, Navratri, Ram-Navami, Hanuman Jubilee, Greening Amavasya, Brahmashtami, Ganesh-Chaturthi, and Dipawali (Diwali) with Annakoot.
  • One of the significant events is the Jaljhulani Ekadashi, a three-day grand fair held during the Bhadrapad Shukla Ekadashi and Vadashi every year.

Conclusion

The Sanwalia Ji Temples in Rajasthan, India, are dedicated to Lord Krishna and are associated with a rich history, legends, and religious celebrations. They are important pilgrimage sites for devotees seeking spiritual blessings and the fulfillment of their desires.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. What is the primary deity of the Sanwalia Ji Temples in Rajasthan, India, known as?

A) Lord Shiva

B) Lord Rama

C) Lord Krishna

D) Lord Hanuman

Answer: C)