The Hateshwari Mata Temple
Located in the scenic village of Hatkoti on the Sonpuri hill, at the confluence of the Vishkulti, Rainala, and Pabbar rivers, the Hateshwari Mata temple stands as a testament to ancient Indian architecture and craftsmanship. Situated approximately 100 km from Shimla, this temple is believed to have been constructed between the 6th and 9th centuries CE, making it one of the oldest temples in India. Over the centuries, the temple has endured multiple natural calamities due to its location in a flood-prone area, but its ancient spiritual essence remains intact.
The temple's original design followed the
Shikhara Nagar style, later reconstructed in the Pahari style after renovations
by a devotee. Remarkable sculptures and architectural elements from the
original structure can still be observed, offering visitors a glimpse into the
craftsmanship of the past.
Dedication
to Maa Durga
The temple is dedicated to Maa Durga, also
known as Mahishasurmardini, a fierce and protective form of the Goddess in
Hinduism. It is believed that this location marks the site where Maa Durga
vanquished the demon Mahishasura, earning her the title of Mahishasurmardini.
Inside the temple, a grand idol of the Goddess, adorned in resplendent garments
and holding a sword, stands triumphant over the demon. This massive idol is a
unique feature not only in Himachal Pradesh but also among other Goddess temples
in India.
According to legend, Mahishasura, the son of
Rambhasura, performed intense penance to Lord Shiva, earning him the boon of
invincibility. Misusing his powers, Mahishasura sought to conquer the Gods and
imprison the universe. The Gods, seeking refuge near the Pabbar River in
Hatkoti, appealed to Mata Hateshwari for protection. Responding to their plea,
she slayed Mahishasura, thus becoming revered as Mahishasurmardini.
A
Supernatural Incident and the Temple's Origins
An intriguing story behind the temple's origin
involves two sisters from a Brahmin family who renounced worldly life at a
young age. One of the sisters traveled to Hatkoti, where she meditated in a
field. During her deep meditation, she disappeared, and in her place, a stone
statue emerged. This miraculous event attracted the attention of the local
king, who, upon digging near the statue, found the ground filled with milk.
Moved by this divine occurrence, the king built the temple, and the people
began worshipping the stone statue as Hateshwari Devi, named after the village.
The Shiva
Temple within the Complex
Within the temple complex is a smaller shrine
dedicated to Lord Shiva, where he is worshipped in the form of a Shivling. This
temple has a narrow entrance, allowing only a few visitors at a time. The
central Shivling is surrounded by prehistoric stone carvings of various
deities.
The Mystery
of the Chained Kalash
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Hateshwari Mata temple is the chained Kalash, a large vessel tied securely at the temple entrance, referred to as "Charu." The idol of Mata Hateshwari, made of eight precious metals and standing 1.2 meters tall, is believed to display changing expressions—sometimes smiling, and at other times, appearing angry.
Local legends tell of a Kalash that used to
escape the temple. According to devotees, the Kalash attempts to flee the
premises, and one Kalash has already disappeared. This mysterious Kalash was
believed to move on its own, signaling impending natural disasters to the
villagers. After its last disappearance, only one Kalash remains, now securely
chained to prevent it from leaving again.
The
Significance of the Kalash
Originally, there were two Kalash at the
temple, each guarding Maa Hateshwari and the surrounding village. These Kalash
were said to try to escape when a natural disaster was approaching, serving as
a warning to the villagers. One day, however, both Kalash vanished. After a
search, only one was found wedged between boulders and returned to the temple,
where it was chained to prevent further escapes.
The Pandava
Connection and Five Temples
Mata Hateshwari is highly revered among the
local population. The temple complex also holds five stone structures known as
“Deols,” which are believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their
exile as described in the Mahabharata. These Deols are arranged in descending
order, with the largest at the front.
Twice a year, during Navratri, a grand fair is
held at the temple, attracting thousands of devotees. The temple premises offer
facilities such as a rest house and a dharamshala, and a Himachal Tourism hotel
is situated nearby in Khara Pathar, around 20 km from Hatkoti.
Conclusion
The Hateshwari Mata temple is not just a
religious site but a treasure trove of historical, architectural, and
supernatural mysteries. With its ancient origins, association with Pandava
legends, and the enigmatic Kalash, the temple continues to captivate visitors,
offering them a glimpse into the divine and the mysterious. Whether you seek
spiritual solace or a connection to the past, the Hateshwari Mata temple offers
an experience that transcends time and belief.
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