Jagdish Temple Udaipur
The Jagdish Temple also Known as Jagannath Rai Temple is a large Hindu temple dedicated to lord Vishnu located in the centre of Udaipur, Rajasthan. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also known as the Universe Preserver. The temple is regarded as the largest in all of Udaipur. The shrine’s gateway can be seen from the City Palace’s Bara Pol, which is 150m away. This massive temple is built in the Indo-Aryan architectural style. The temple is three stories tall and a work of art in architecture.
It is a popular tourist destination that was previously known as the Jagannath Rai Temple but is now known as the Jagdish Ji Temple. Because of its unique location, beauty, and history, the temple has become a significant monument in recent decades.
Overview of Jagdish Temple Udaipur
Jagdish temple is one of the best architectural wonders of the Mewar dynasty. The Indo-Aryan architectural style is on display at Jagdish Temple. The temple was built by Vastushastra, the Hindu architectural science.
This three-story temple is built on a raised platform and features magnificently carved pillars, huge airy halls, and painted walls with vibrant colours and intricately decorated ceilings. There are two massive stone elephant statues at the entrance to welcome visitors. At the entrance, there is an inscription engraved on a stone slab. The inscription was installed by Mahara Jagat Singh to commemorate his contributions to the temple.
History of Jagdish Temple Udaipur
The temple was built in 1651 during the reign of Maharana Jagat Singh of Udaipur, who ruled from 1628 to 1653. Jagdish Temple is Lord Vishnu’s residence and an iconic example of Maru-Gujaru architecture from the period. The Maharana Jagat Singh spent 1.5 million rupees to improve the Jagdish temple’s structure. Because of the Mughal invasion, the temple was renovated.
Many figurines and carvings in the temple were destroyed by Mughal invaders in retaliation for Rajput rulers. The Mughals turned to vandalism to vent their rage and frustration over their defeat at the hands of the Mewar rulers.
According to old legends, the marble slab in the Jagdish temple possesses magical powers. You can get quick relief from pain by rubbing your shoulder, knees, or back on the marble. Some people may find it difficult to believe, but religious beliefs cannot be questioned.
The architecture of Jagdish Temple Udaipur
The main temple is 79 feet tall and dominates the city’s skyline. The main temple’s summit is adorned with statues of horsemen, elephants, musicians, and dancers who were practising at the time the temple was built. The main temple is 32 steps from the front door. A brass image of Garuda, a half-man, half-eagle figure, can be found here. Garuda is significant in Hinduism because it is believed that Garuda guards the gates of Lord Vishnu’s house.
The next idol found in the main shrine is a four-armed image of Lord Vishu, which is one of the most noticeable features of Jagdish temple. The statue of God Jagannath is a sight to behold because it is carved from a single piece of black stone, making it a magnificent work of art and devotion. It is believed that the statue of Lord Vishnu has a hypnotic effect on devotees, bringing them a sense of calm and serenity.
Small shrines to other Gods and Goddesses surround the main temple. Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Sun Goad, and Goddess Shakti all have temples. Each of the building’s first two floors has 50 pillars. Each pillar has intricate carvings that make for an amazing sight. The temple’s beauty is enhanced by a mandap (prayer hall), a porch, and a pyramidal spire.
Facts about Jagdish Temple Udaipur
- Jagdish Temple is a Hindu temple located in the City Palace complex of Udaipur, 3 kilometres from Udaipur City Railway Station.
- The Sri Jagdish Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the Universe’s Preserver. Maharana Jagat Singh built the temple in 1651 AD for 1.5 million rupees.
- It is well-known for being the largest temple in Udaipur. This temple’s gateway is located 150 metres from the City Palace’s Bara Pol.
- The temple was originally known as the Jagannath Rai Temple, but it is now known as the Jagdish Temple.
- This temple was constructed in the Indo-Aryan architectural style. This three-story temple is a work of art with beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls, and lush halls.
- The temple’s first and second storeys each have 50 pillars with magnificent carvings that add to the temple’s beauty.
- The main temple’s spire stands approximately 79 feet tall and dominates the Udaipur skyline.
- The shikhar (spire) is adorned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen, and musicians.
- This temple was built with the Hindu architectural science of ‘Vastushstra’ in mind.
- Two massive stone elephants greet visitors at the entrance. In front of the temple is a stone slab imprinted with inscriptions referring to Maharana Jagat Singh.
- The main shrine is reached via a marble flight of 32 steps. A brass image of Garuda, the celestial bird, guards Lord Vishnu’s doorway.
- The main shrine houses Lord Vishnu’s four-armed black stone image.
- The main shrine is surrounded by four smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Sun God, Goddess Shakti, and Lord Shiva, in that order.
Famous Festivals In Jagdish Temple Udaipur
- Krishna Janmashtami – Lord Krishna was born on Ashtami, the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadra. The celebrations at the Temple begin early in the morning and continue until late at night.
- Holi – This festival is celebrated in the month of Phalgun (Feb – March). During the celebration, people celebrate with colours and enjoy Holi in the temple complex.
- Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Hindu month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
- Chitra Poornima is also a major occasion for celebration in the temple.
Best Time to Visit Jagdish Temple Udaipur
This place is heavenly and spiritual; you can visit it all year. However, the best time to visit this temple is during the monsoon and winter seasons. During the monsoon season, this location receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it appear heavenly with its greenery and bringing freshness elsewhere.
How to Reach Jagdish Temple Udaipur
By Air: The Jagdish Temple is only 15 to 20 minutes away from Dabok Airport. You can quickly reach the temple after hiring a cab.
By Rail: The Jagdish temple is 3 kilometres from the Malvi station in the Nathdwara district. There are direct trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Chittaur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur to Udaipur.
By Road: The transport corporations of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh run safe and affordable buses to Udaipur.
Also Read – Lakshmi Narayan Temple Hosaholalu
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Facilities
- Drinking Water
- Pooja Item Shops
- Prasad Shops
- Restaurants Nearby
- Resting Room