Introduction:
Nestled in the scenic Aravalli range, the Jeen Mata Temple in Sikar district, Rajasthan, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites dedicated to Goddess Jeen Mata, an incarnation of the powerful Goddess Durga. This ancient temple, believed to be over 1000 years old, sits atop a forested hill near the village of Rewasa, about 30 kilometres south of Sikar town. The temple’s unique location surrounded by hills and the sacred aura has made it a coveted destination for devotees far and wide.
Historical and Mythological Significance:
The temple has a rich legacy tied to legends of devotion, sacrifice, and divine miracles. Jeen Mata and her brother Harsh are said to have attained divine forms through rigorous penance at this location. The temple’s history is marked by tales of resilience, including miraculous protection against destruction by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s army. The eternal oil lamp in the temple sanctum is a historical symbol of unbroken faith, first lit by Delhi’s Chauhan rulers and sustained by Jaipur’s royal lineage.
Jeen Mata Mela – The Grand Festival:
Twice a year during the vibrant Navratri periods of Chaitra and Ashwin, the temple hosts the spectacular Jeen Mata Mela, attracting lakhs of devotees from Rajasthan as well as Bengal, Bihar, Assam, and Gujarat. The fair is renowned for its lively spiritual atmosphere, devotional rituals, and cultural richness. Before sunrise and after sunset, special prayers and aarti are performed, and thousands come to offer oil and ghee lamps to the goddess, believing in her blessings for fulfilment of wishes, especially childlessness remedies.
Travel and Accessibility:
Reaching Jeen Mata Temple is convenient with well-connected road and rail networks. Located approximately 108 km from Jaipur and 30 km from Sikar, the temple can be accessed via Sikar railway station and Jaipur airport. There are several dharamshalas and accommodation facilities nearby to welcome pilgrims during the mela and other times.
Additional Attractions:
Devotees should also visit the nearby Harsh Bhairav Nath Temple situated on a nearby hill, another ancient site associated with Jeen Mata’s brother. The area’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage offer an enriching experience for travellers.
This tour is an integral part of the Rajasthan Darshan Yatra, offering a deeply historical and spiritually enriching journey through the sacred land of Rajasthan. Experience the divine aura of ancient temples, age-old traditions, and vibrant cultural heritage that have shaped Rajasthan’s spiritual landscape. This pilgrimage not only explores the majestic forts and palaces but also connects travellers with the profound faith and timeless devotion nurtured in Rajasthan’s holy sites.
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