Jalwa Kalika Mata Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Address

Jalwa Kalika Mata Temple, Madhya Pradesh

Jalwa, Ghatiya Tehsil,

Ujjain District,

Madhya Pradesh 456550

Moolavar

Lord Shiva

Introduction

The Kalika Mata Temple, located in Jalwa Village, Ghatiya Tehsil, Ujjain District, Madhya Pradesh, India, is a Shiva temple with a rich history and cultural significance. Here are some key details about the temple:

Location:

The temple is situated in the center of Jalwa Village, which falls under the Ghatiya Tehsil of Ujjain District in Madhya Pradesh, India.

Primary Dedication:

Despite the name “Kalika Mata Temple,” this temple is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, not Goddess Kali. The name might be due to local or historical reasons, but the main deity is Lord Shiva.

Architectural Style and Significance:

The temple follows the bhumija style of architecture, which is a characteristic architectural style seen in many ancient temples of India.
It is recognized as a state-protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), highlighting its architectural and historical importance.

Historical Context:

The temple is believed to have been constructed in the 11th century CE during the reign of the Paramara dynasty.

Temple Structure:

The temple consists of a sanctum (garbhagriha), an antarala (vestibule), and a mandapa (hall).
Inside the sanctum, there is a Shiva Linga with a Jaladhari (water spout) for offerings. An image of Parvati can be seen in a niche on the back wall.
The original temple has been lost over time, but the Jangha portion remains.
Interestingly, the sanctum also enshrines a Chaturbuja Vishnu, although it’s locally referred to as goddess Kali. This dual representation has led to the temple being known as the Kalika Mata Temple in the village.

Exterior Decorations:

The exterior of the temple lacks intricate decorations but has sculptures of Maheshwara (Shiva), Ashtadikpalas (guardians of the directions), and Vyalas (mythical creatures).

The Kalika Mata Temple, despite its name, primarily serves as a place of worship and cultural significance for Lord Shiva devotees. Its historical and architectural value is recognized by its status as a state-protected monument.