The Ambaji Temple, located in the Banaskantha district of Gujarat, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and a highly revered pilgrimage site for devotees of Goddess Amba (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). It is believed that the heart of Goddess Sati fell at this location, making it a sacred Shakti Peeth.
Situated near the Aravalli Hills, close to the Rajasthan-Gujarat border, the temple attracts millions of pilgrims every year, especially during the Bhadarvi Poonam fair and Navratri festival. Known for its divine energy, stunning architecture, and religious significance, Ambaji Temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees.
Mythology and Significance
The Ambaji Temple is linked to the ancient legend of Shakti Peethas, which are believed to have been formed from the dismembered body of Goddess Sati. According to Hindu mythology:
King Daksha, Sati’s father, organized a grand yajna (sacrificial ritual) but did not invite Lord Shiva, his son-in-law.
Sati, unable to bear the insult, immolated herself in the yajna fire.
When Shiva learned of Sati’s death, he was overwhelmed with grief and performed the Tandava (dance of destruction).
To calm Shiva and prevent the destruction of the universe, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to cut Sati’s body into 51 pieces, which fell at different locations, creating the Shakti Peethas.
At Ambaji, Sati’s heart (also referred to as the “Baal” or “Bramharandhra”) is believed to have fallen.
Thus, Ambaji Shakti Peeth is considered one of the most powerful and sacred sites dedicated to Shakti (divine feminine power).
Religious and Spiritual Importance
The presiding deity of Ambaji Temple is Arasuri Amba Mata, considered the Goddess of Power, Protection, and Strength. Unlike most temples, the sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha) of Ambaji Temple does not contain an idol. Instead, the deity is worshipped in the form of a sacred yantra, inscribed with 51 sacred letters representing different forms of Shakti.
Devotees believe that:
Offering prayers at Ambaji Temple grants protection from evil forces and bestows strength and prosperity.
Couples seeking marital happiness and individuals desiring spiritual growth often visit the temple.
It is also believed that walking barefoot to the temple during Navratri fulfills wishes and brings divine blessings.
Temple Architecture
The Ambaji Temple is an architectural marvel that reflects traditional Hindu temple design.
Key Features:
Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbha Griha):
The main sanctum houses the Vishwa Yantra, a sacred geometric symbol, instead of an idol.
The yantra is placed on a marble platform and is adorned with gold and silver ornaments during special rituals.
Exquisite Carvings and Design:
The temple’s exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities.
The temple walls have gold-plated doors, adding to its grandeur.
Kund and Sabha Mandap:
The temple complex features a sacred kund (water reservoir) called Manas Kund, where devotees take a holy dip.
The Sabha Mandap is the main prayer hall where devotees gather for rituals and bhajans.
Hilltop Shrine (Gabbar Hill):
About 4 km from the main temple is the Gabbar Hill, believed to be the original seat of the goddess.
Devotees climb 999 steps or take a ropeway to reach the top, where a small temple dedicated to Ambaji Mata is situated.
Festivals and Celebrations
The Ambaji Temple comes alive with vibrant celebrations during major Hindu festivals:
Bhadarvi Poonam Fair:
Held in September, this is the largest fair at Ambaji, attracting more than a million devotees.
The temple and its surroundings are decorated with flowers and lights, and religious processions, bhajans, and cultural programs are organized.
Navratri:
The temple hosts grand Navratri celebrations, marked by garba dances, special aartis, and religious processions.
Devotees undertake the Parikrama of Gabbar Hill, symbolizing their devotion to the goddess.
Diwali:
The temple is illuminated with thousands of lamps, creating a mesmerizing visual.
Rituals and Poojas:
The Ambaji Temple conducts various daily rituals and special poojas:
- Mangala Aarti (Morning Aarti): Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
- Rajbhog Aarti (Midday Ritual): Timings: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
- Sandhya Aarti (Evening Aarti): Timings: 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Shayan Aarti (Night Aarti): Timings: 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Special Rituals: Annadanam: Free food is distributed to pilgrims.
- Chandi Homam: A special havan conducted for removing obstacles and invoking divine blessings.
Location and Accessibility:
- Address: Ambaji, Banaskantha District, Gujarat, India.
- Distance from Mount Abu: Approximately 45 km.
- Distance from Ahmedabad: Around 180 km.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Well-connected by roads from Ahmedabad, Mount Abu, and Palanpur. Regular GSRTC buses and private taxis are available.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Abu Road, about 20 km from Ambaji. From Abu Road, buses and taxis are available.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, about 180 km away.
Temple Timings:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Afternoon: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Evening: 6:30 PM – 9:15 PM
Nearby Attractions:
- Gabbar Hill: Located 4 km from the main temple, Gabbar Hill is believed to be the original site of Ambaji Mata’s residence. You can either climb 999 steps or take the ropeway.
- Kumbhariya Jain Temple: Located 2 km from Ambaji, this temple complex is dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras and is known for its intricate carvings.
- Mount Abu: Just 45 km from Ambaji, Mount Abu is a popular hill station known for the Dilwara Temples and Nakki Lake.
The Ambaji Temple is not just a religious destination but also a symbol of divine grace, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Its mythological significance, sacred yantra worship, and grand festivals make it a must-visit for devotees seeking prosperity, health, and spiritual fulfillment. Whether you are a religious pilgrim or a traveler seeking divine peace, Ambaji offers a truly enriching experience.