15 important facts about Hidimba Temple in Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Hidimba Devi Temple, also known as Hadimba Temple, is a popular Hindu temple located in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India. Here are some key points about the temple:
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Hidimba Architecture:
The temple is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Tibetan styles. It is built in a pagoda-like structure with intricate wood carvings. The three-tiered roof is made of brass and the walls are made of mud and stone.
1. The Temple is also known as Dhungari Temple. It is located in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated amidst the dense cedar forests of the Dhauladhar range.
2. The Temple is an ancient cave temple. She is worshipped as a goddess and is believed to possess supernatural powers.
3. Hidimba Temple is dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima, a figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple was built in the 16th century by Raja Bahadur Singh of the Kullu dynasty. It is a wooden temple with intricate carvings and a pagoda-style architecture.
4. Hidimba Temple is surrounded by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar at the foot of the Himalayas. The temple attracts a large number of devotees and tourists throughout the year. The serene and picturesque location adds to its charm and popularity.
Deity:
The main deity of the temple is Hidimba Devi, who is revered as a goddess in Hindu mythology. She is believed to be the sister of Hidimba, a character from the Mahabharata epic. It is considered a form of the divine mother, and she is worshipped for her protective and benevolent powers.
5. The structure of the Temple is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which was worshiped as an image of the deity. The main deity of the temple is a gigantic rock, which is believed to be the manifestation of goddess Hidimba. The rock is worshipped as a symbol of her presence and power.
6. The temple was built in 1553 CE by Maharaja Bahadur Singh. Every year, in the month of May, a grand festival called the “Hidimba Devi Festival” is celebrated at the temple. The festival involves various cultural activities, traditional rituals, and performances to honor the goddess.
7. The height of the temple is 24 meters. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful cedar forest, known as the Dhungiri Van Vihar. It is a popular spot for picnics and nature walks.
Legend:
According to mythology, Hidimba Devi meditated in this region to seek penance and ultimately attained divine powers. The temple is said to be built at the exact place where she performed her meditation.
8. The temple is built around a cave where Devi Hidimba performed meditation. The Temple has been featured in various Bollywood movies, making it a famous tourist attraction.
9. People in Manali worship Hidimba Devi as a deity. According to local beliefs, the temple is connected to several mythological stories, including the story of Hidimba Devi marrying the Pandava prince Bhima and giving birth to their son, Ghatotkacha.
Surroundings:
The temple is situated amidst a dense cedar forest, offering a serene and peaceful ambiance. The surroundings of the temple are picturesque and attract many visitors who come to soak in the natural beauty and spirituality of the place.
10. Every year during spring, Hidimba Devi Fair is celebrated by the locals. The architectural beauty and religious significance of theTemple make it one of the must-visit places in Manali.
11. The Temple base is made out of whitewashed, mud-covered stonework.
Festivals:
The temple sees a significant influx of devotees during festivals like Navratri and Dussehra. Animal sacrifices used to be a part of the traditional rituals, but they have been discontinued in recent years. The temple also witnesses a grand celebration during the birthday of Hidimba Devi, which falls in the month of May.
12. About 70 metres away from the temple, there is a shrine dedicated to Goddess Hidimba’s son, Ghatotkacha, who was born after she married Bhima.
13. People of Manali worship Hidimba Devi during Navaratri.
Cultural Significance:
The Temple holds immense cultural significance, reflecting the faith and devotion of the local people. It is a vital part of the religious and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
Visiting the Temple provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the spiritual aura and architectural beauty of the temple while immersing themselves in the legends and traditions associated with it.
14.The only object within the Temple, a 7.5 cm (3 inch) tall brass image of the goddess Hidimba Devi, is a huge rock.
15. Hidimba Temple is located in Manali, Himāchal Pradesh, India.
Text by Ashutosh Kumar
