Kālikā Mata Temple or Kalikamata is a Hindu and Muslim goddess temple complex and pilgrim centre at the summit of
Pavagadh Hill in
Panchmahal District,
India, within the
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. It dates from the 10th or 11th centuries. The temple has three images of goddesses: the central image is of Kalika Mata, flanked by Kali on the right and Bahucharamata on the left. The spire has a shrine of Sadanandsha Pir, a Muslim ‘pir’ or “saint” held in great reverence locally.On Chitra sud 8, a fair is held at the temple which is attended by thousands of devotees.The temple is the site of one of the Shakti Peethas.Kalika Mata Temple is situated in the Indian state of
Gujarat, near
Halol, at 762 metres (2,500 ft) above sea level.
Architecture and Fittings:
The small and plain temple is set amidst fortifications with an open yard in the front, and is open for long hours to cater to the rush of pilgrims.There are two altars in front of the temple for offering sacrifices to the Kalika Mata, as well as a row of lights that are lit on festive occasions. The Kali yantra is worshipped at the temple.
The complex is divided into two parts, the ground floor containing Hindu shrines, while the temple spire is domed with a Muslim shrine.The chief shrine on the ground floor contains three divine images: in the centre Kalika Mata in the centre (depicted in the form of a head, known as mukhwato and red in colour), while Mahakali is situated to her right and Bahuchara Mata to her left.The restored marble floor dates to about 1859 and was presented by the minister of Limbdi in
Kathiawar.The domed temple spire contains a Muslim shrine and mausoleum to Sadan Shah Pir, a Sufi saint.
Festivals:
The temple is one of the biggest tourist and pilgrimage centers in Gujarat, attracting large numbers of people every year.It is a Chodhri tradition to make a pilgrimage here at least once in a lifetime.Devotees of Kalika Mata visiting the temple "worshipped by beating bell-metal symbols".A fair is held each year at the temple on Chaitra Sud 8.Especially on the full moon of Chaitra, in April, and at Dasara, in October, there are large meetings of Hindus of all classes.
