Meera Temple, Chittorgarh | Meera Bai Temple

Meera Temple , Chittorgarh Overview

Meera Temple or Meera Bai Temple located in the premises of Chittorgarh Fort is dedicated to Meera Bai who was a Rajput Princess. The striking temple was constructed by Maharana Kumbha, the Rajput king during his rule, making it both a historical and religious attraction. As soon as one enters the place of worship, they are bound to feel immense tranquillity and happiness. The divine vibe of the temple is unexplainable but touches every soul offering their prayers here. Visitors choose to sit quietly, meditate and reflect upon their life goals often here and many find a direction in life. As one explores the scintillating site, they will notice the intricate carvings on the walls and the pillars that add to the ethnic charm of the monument. These carvings depict stories about Meera Bai, Lord Krishna and their sacrifices for each other.

Built during the reign of Rana Kumbha, this glorious site is where Meera Bai had given up her royal lifestyle to live as an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna. She, later on, was also known as a poet and a saint. This majestic temple is an important place of worship for the Hindus as Meera Bai has written and composed several Bhajans and poems dedicated to Lord Krishna here. Visitors are captivated by the tales of Meera Bai's love and affection towards Lord Krishna and how she lived the life of a sage with complete dedication. The temple is a monument that keeps India connected with the rich culture of Rajasthan.

Legend of Meera Bai

Meera Bai was born into the Rathore family who were the Rajputs of Rajasthan. She was born in 1498 CE and at a very young age was mesmerised with Lord Krishna and his charm so much that she started considering him as her husband. As she grew old, her parents got her married to the Prince of Mewar, Bhoj Raj against her will. She lost her husband a few years later during the Hindu Muslim war. After the passing of her husband, she lost her father-in-law. It is believed that her in-laws tried to kill her by talking her into drinking poisoned nectar and sent her a basket of flowers with a vicious snake hidden in it.

Lord Krishna is said to have converted the snake into his idol and made the poison harmless for her. Her affection reached unexplainable heights, and she decided to give up her title as a princess to live the life of a sage and devote all her energy praising Lord Krishna. Meera Bai and her stories are not found in the historical documents of India but are shared with generations through storytelling, songs and poetry. Over the course of time, these folk tales, poems and songs have been re-made in various renditions, but the essence of her emotions are still kept intact.

Architecture of Meera Bai Temple

Meera Temple is built as per the Indo-Aryan style of architecture in the premises of the Kumbha Shyam Temple. It is considered as a marvellous work of art in India along with being a cultural heritage for the Hindus. The sanctum sanctorum houses a beautiful idol of Lord Krishna. At the entrance, there is a splendid carving of five bodies with one head which signifies unity and non-discrimination by caste and religion.

The temple arcade has several intricately carved pillars and is open on all sides with pavilions. A small area of the temple is also dedicated to Swami Ravidas who was the Guru of Meera Bai. His footprints are also preserved for devotees who wish to offer their prayers. The entire monument is built in stone and has intricate carvings depicting stories of Meera Bai and Lord Krishna.

Best Time To Visit Meera Temple

November to February is the best time for tourists to visit the Fort. It is advisable to visit the temple in the morning and the evening hours as the temperature is very high in the afternoon.

Tips For Visiting Meera Temple

1. Tourists need to pay to enter Chittorgarh Fort.
2. Although the temple is a historical monument, prayers are still offered by devotees.
3. One may hire a guide to hear all of Meera Bai's stories.

How To Reach Meera Temple

Meera Temple is located on the premises of Chittorgarh Fort near Fateh Prakash Palace. Tourists can hail public transport from any part of the city of Chittorgarh to reach the temple. Local buses frequently ply within the city. One can choose from auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, rental cars or taxis to commute within the city via Chittor Fort Road or Fort Road.