Sundha Mata Temple, Rajasthan

Address

Sundha Mata Road

Near Rajpura Tahsil, Jaswantpura,

Rajasthan 307515

Amman

Chamunda

Introduction

The Sundha Mata Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, is a nearly 900-year-old shrine located atop the Sundha Mountain in the Aravalli ranges, Jalore District, Rajasthan. Situated at an elevation of 1220 meters, the temple is revered as Sundha Matha by devotees. It is positioned strategically:

64 km from Mount Abu,
20 km from Bhinmal, and
105 km from Jalore district headquarters.
The temple lies in Raniwara Tehsil, along the Malwara to Jaswantpura Road, near Dantlawas village.

Puranic Significance:

The temple premises house three significant inscriptions, shedding light on the region’s historical and cultural evolution:

1262 AD: Chronicles the victory of the Chauhans and the decline of the Parmaras.
1326 AD: Offers insights into the temple’s significance during the medieval period.
1727 AD: Reflects the continued reverence and historical importance of the site.

The temple was constructed by the Dewal Pratiharas, with assistance from the Imperial Chauhans of Jalore. These inscriptions, akin to the Harishen inscription or the Mehrauli pillar inscription, are invaluable in understanding Indian history, specifically the regional dynamics of Rajasthan.

Special Features:

The Sundha Mata Temple is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and devotion:

Architectural Splendor:
- Built entirely of white marble, the temple’s pillars are reminiscent of the intricate artistry of the Dilwara Temples at Mount Abu.
- The temple features a beautiful idol of Goddess Chamunda, where her head is worshipped, while tradition holds that her trunk resides in Korta and her legs in Sundarla Pal (Jalore).
Deities and Shrines:
- A Bhur Bhuva Swaweshwar Shivling stands in front of Goddess Chamunda.
- The temple also houses:
  - A duo idol of Shiva and Parvati,
  - An idol of Lord Ganesh, both considered ancient and rare.
Divine Energy:
Devotees believe the temple radiates divine energy and serves as a place of solace and spiritual fulfillment, attracting pilgrims from across India.