Kalika Mata Temple – Chittorgarh, Timings, History | Vihara Darshani

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Kalika Mata Temple – Chittorgarh

In Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, Kalika Mata Temple is an interesting place to visit. Goddess Kali, the personification of Shakti, is the consecration object of the temple. The temple was originally built by Bappa Rawal for the Sun Goddess in the 8th century, but was transformed into a Kalika temple in the 14th century.

Structure and History of the Kalika Mata Temple:

The Kalika Mata Temple was built in the 14th century. According to legend, Bappa Rawal built a temple for the Sun God here in the eighth century and it now stands opposite the Padmini Palace. After the invasion of Alauddin Khilji, this shrine was demolished. Later, in the 14th century, Rana Hammir Singh rebuilt the temple and converted it into the Kalika Mata temple. This temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is magnificent in its architecture.

The temple is located in between the Padmini Palace and Victory Tower. There is a substantial open space in the temple where “Night jagarans’ ‘ or night vigils are held. The entrance to the Kalika Mata temple is facing east on a rock mound. The Jogeswar Mahadev Shrine, a Shiva shrine is also present at the temple complex. This temple was originally built for Lord Surya. The walls of the inner sanctum of this temple show Lord Surya with his consort and angels. The moon is also seen painted on the inner walls of the temple. The tops of the roofs are narrow and intricately carved. The main motif of the carvings on the frames of the main doors is the sun god.

Important days of the Temple:

People from all around come to worship the Goddess. During Navratri, a large number of devotees visit this temple every day, special decorations and Poojas are performed. So, between October and February it is the best time to visit this temple. During Maha Shivratri time Night Jagarans were held on this temple premises.