Jagdish Temple
Jagdish temple is a Hindu temple which is very large in size and is situated in the middle of Udaipur in state of Rajasthan. It is a major tourist attraction which is also known as the temple of Jagannath Rai but is now called the temple of Jagdish Ji.
The temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu who is also known as the preserver of the universe. The temple is celebrated as the largest temple in entire Udaipur. The gateway of the shrine can be seen from Bara Pol of the City Palace which is 150m away. This huge temple is constructed in the Indo- Aryan style of architecture. The temple is three storied and is an example of wonderful architecture. It comprises of beautifully carved pillars, painted walls, decorated ceilings, luscious halls, etc.
The skyline of Udaipur is dominated by the 79 feet high spire or shikhar of the main temple. The spire is decorated with various beautifully designed sculptures of elephants, dancers, musician and horsemen that will hold your sight. As one approaches the temple, two huge stone elephants will be there at the entrance to welcome. One can also find a stone slab with inscription about Maharaja Jagat Singh in front of the temple. There is a marble flight of 32 steps which is to be taken to reach the main shrine.
A huge idol of Garuda which is half man half eagle made of brass will be seen as if it is keeping a guard on the doorway of the temple or the way to Lord Vishnu. The huge four-armed image of Lord Vishnu is housed in the main shrine. The idol has been made by carving it from a single black stone.
One will reach the celestial word with just one glimpse of the idol. Four smaller shrines encircle the main shrine of Lord Vishnu which is centrally located. The four shrines are devoted to the Sun God, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Shakti respectively.
The temple consists of a mandap or prayer hall, a porch and a pyramidal spire which are designed beautifully. There are 50 pillars each in the first and second storey of the temple. The carvings can only be praised by someone who has enduring sight to value the beauty of the temple. The temple was built as per the Vastushashtra or Hindu architectural science. The beauty of the architecture and the interiors of the temple can never be explained in words.
History of Jagdish Temple
The temple was built in 1651 under the reign of Maharana Jagat Singh who ruled Udaipur from 1628 to 1653. Jagdish Temple is the home of Lord Vishnu and an iconic example of Maru-Gujaru architecture of the era. The Maharana Jagat Singh spent 1.5 million rupees to enhance the structure of the Jagdish temple. The temple was renovated due to Mughal invasion.
The Mughal invaders have destroyed many figurines and carvings in the temple as a part of revenge upon Rajput rulers. The Mughals took to vandalism to take out their anger and frustrations on their defeat by the hands of Mewar rulers.
According to the old legends, it is believed that the marble slab in the Jagdish temple has magical powers. If you rub your shoulder, knees, or back on the marble, you can get a quick relief against the pain. For some people, it might be hard to believe, but the beliefs associated with religion cannot be questioned.
Architecture of Jagdish Temple
Jagdish temple is one of the best architectural wonders of the Mewar dynasty. Jagdish temple showcases the Indo- Aryan architectural style. The temple is built keeping the rules of Vastushastra, the Hindu architectural science in mind.
This three-storied temple is built on a raised platform flaunting magnificently carved pillars, huge airy halls, and painted walls that are adorned with vibrant colors and intricately decorated ceilings. At the entrance, there are two massive elephant statues of stone, installed to welcome visitors. An inscription engraved on the stone slab is found at the entry. Mahara Jagat Singh installed the inscription to record his contributions to the temple.
The main temple is 79 feet high, and it prominently controls the city’s skyline. The summit of the main temple is adorned with statues of horsemen, elephants, musicians, and dancers who were practicing when the temple was established. The main temple is 32 steps away from the entrance. Here you get to see a brass image of Garuda, a half-man, and half-eagle figure. Garuda has a noteworthy significance in the Hindu religion, as it is considered 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 considered one of the most striking features of the Jagdish temple. The statue of God Jagannath is a treat to watch since it is carved out from one piece of black stone, making it a marvelous piece of art and devotion. It is believed that the statue of Lord Vishnu tends to have a hypnotic effect on the devotees and brings a sense of calmness and serenity.
As said, God is a peacemaker, so whenever in doubt go to him, and he will help you out. People from all around the world visit the Jagdish temple to get answers to their problems. The main temple is surrounded by small shrines of other Gods and Goddesses. The temples belong to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Sun Goad, and Goddess Shakti.
The first two floors of the building have 50 pillars each. Each pillar has intricate carvings making it an astonishing sight. The mandap (prayer hall), a porch, and a pyramidal spire add to the beauty of the temple.
