Legacy of Khodiyar Mata – The Divine Deity of Gujarat
Goddess Khodiyar Mata, also known as Janbai or Khodal, is a revered Lokdevi (folk goddess) in Gujarat and is widely worshipped as a form of Durga or Shakti. Her worship dates back to around 700 AD, especially within the Charan and Gohil communities of Saurashtra. Known for her divine miracles and blessings, Khodiyar Mata has inspired the construction of numerous temples across Gujarat.
According to legend, the goddess was born in Roishala village near Vallabhipur, and her divine presence continues to be felt through her devotees and shrines established in her name.
Khodiyar Mandir, Rajpara – History & Foundation
The existing Khodiyar Mandir at Rajpara (located along the Bhavnagar–Rajkot Highway) was constructed in the early 20th century (1911–1912). Later, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Gohil expanded it into the magnificent temple seen today. He also contributed to the surrounding infrastructure, including the development of roads, drinking water supply, and the construction of a dedicated Khodiyar Mandir Railway Station for easy accessibility.
Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust – Established in 1953
The Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust was founded in 1953 by Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji with the aim of managing the temple and preserving its legacy for future generations.
The Trust is managed by the royal family of Bhavnagar and includes:
-
H H Maharaja Saheb Vijayrajsinghji Gohil
-
H H Maharani Samyukta Kumari Gohil
-
Yuvrajsaheb Jaiveerraj Singh
-
Maharajkumari Brijeshwari Kumari
-
Punitaba Raghvendrasinh Gohil
In addition, the Shri Khodal Seva Charitable Trust was established in 2001/24. It is dedicated to educational assistance, food donations (Annadan), cow protection, free medical camps, and environmental awareness programs.
Pilgrim Facilities and Devotee Services
To offer a complete spiritual and comfortable experience for devotees, the Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust provides several essential services and amenities:
🛏 Dharmashalas (Guesthouses)
-
Khodiyar Bhavan: 2 dormitories (15 beds each), 12 AC rooms, 5 non-AC rooms
-
Dr. Virbhadrasinhji Bhavan: 4 dormitories (10 beds each), 14 AC rooms, 6 non-AC rooms
🍛 Bhojanalaya (Free Meal Hall)
-
Provides free meals to up to 3,000 devotees at once, daily.
🚠 Ropeway and Leisure
-
Ropeway carries devotees to the hilltop shrine
-
Recreational areas for children and lakeside gardens
🏥 Medical Facilities
-
On-site dispensary, ambulance, wheelchair ramps, and emergency doctors
🛍 Temple Market
-
Shops and stalls selling handicrafts, pooja samagri, religious items, and the temple’s famous Lapsi prasad (sweet made from broken wheat)
Major Religious Events and Celebrations
The temple is the center for various vibrant and spiritual religious festivals:
🌟 Khodiyar Jayanti
-
Celebrates the birth of the goddess with processions, cultural events, aarti, and mass feeding (Bhandara)
🕉 Navratri Festival
-
Nine nights of Garba, aarti, and special rituals dedicated to the goddess
🌕 Full Moon (Purnima) Celebrations
-
Thousands of devotees attend special aartis and spiritual gatherings on every full moon night
These festivals serve not just as acts of worship but also reinforce community bonding, regional culture, and religious unity.
Other Prominent Khodiyar Temples in Gujarat
Though the Rajpara temple is the most well-known, Khodiyar Mata is worshipped in several other major temples across Gujarat:
-
Khodaldham, Kagvad (Rajkot)
-
Matel, near Morbi
-
Aiyavej, near Palitana
-
Galdhara, near Dhari
Each temple is deeply rooted in local traditions, legends, and holds immense spiritual value for nearby communities.
Social Initiatives and Outreach Programs
The Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust has gone beyond religious duties to contribute meaningfully to society and welfare, including:
-
Free education and scholarships for underprivileged children
-
Free distribution of clothing and meals to needy families
-
Organizing health camps and rural eye check-ups
-
Running Gaushalas (cow shelters) for animal protection
-
Providing disaster relief during floods, droughts, and other calamities
This approach sets an example of faith-driven service to humanity and nature.
Temple Visit Information
Location: Rajpara, Bhavnagar District, Gujarat
Temple Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
Nearest Airport: Bhavnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Stations: Bhavnagar Terminus and Khodiyar Mandir Station
By Road: Easily accessible from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Vadodara, and surrounding regions
Conclusion
The Khodiyar Mandir in Rajpara stands not just as a symbol of religious faith, but also as a beacon of community service, social responsibility, and cultural heritage. Under the dedicated management of the Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust, the temple continues to attract millions of devotees and serve society through various philanthropic efforts.
Whether you are a devotee, a tourist, or a seeker of spiritual peace, Khodiyar Mandir offers a divine experience that unites devotion with purpose.