A Unique Temple on Kolar Hills
Situated on the Kolar Hills, the temple is India’s first dedicated entirely to the Karwa Chauth festival. Constructed in 2002 using Vedic methods, the temple hosts rituals, community feasts, and ceremonial events during the festival. Om Prakash Maharaj, the founder, notes that unlike the ancient Chauth Mata temple in Sawai Madhopur, this temple is specifically for celebrating Karwa Chauth and associated deities.
Rituals and Celebrations
Married women observe a day-long fast, beginning before sunrise with Sargi, a pre-dawn meal prepared by their mothers-in-law. They remain without food or water until moonrise, praying for their husbands’ health and longevity. In the evening, women gather for Karwa Chauth puja, listen to the Karwa Chauth Katha, and perform rituals with decorated clay pots (Karwas). Devotees dress in vibrant traditional attire, often adorned with Mehndi and jewelry.
The temple houses idols of Shiva-Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Kartik Dev, and the Moon. Devotees recite 108 names of each deity using Vedic mantras. During Karwa Chauth, around 70–80 couples visit the temple, with celebrations including Bhandara (community feast) and cultural events continuing late into the night.
Moonrise Tradition and Special Beliefs
Observing the moonrise from the temple on Karwa Chauth night is considered auspicious. This year, the moon is expected to appear between 8:20 PM and 8:25 PM.
The temple complex also includes Mata Kameshwari Shaktipeeth, popularly known as GGibai Mata or ‘Chappal Wali Mata’. Devotees offer slippers, sandals, or shoes to seek blessings and have their wishes fulfilled.
Devotees’ Experience
Visitors express awe at the temple’s spiritual energy. Mungeshwar Mejaram from Balaghat shared, “I have never seen a Karwa Chauth temple like this. It brings peace of mind and strengthens faith.”
Temple Complex Highlights
The sprawling complex features 51 idols, including Ram-Sita, Radha-Krishna, Hanuman Ji, Navagraha, Shiva-Parvati, and Maa Kali. In 2011, the 12 Jyotirlingas were installed, followed by a Navagraha temple three years ago. Every corner reflects devotion and spiritual energy, making it a unique pilgrimage destination during Karwa Chauth.
