Pushkar, a small town in the state of Rajasthan, India, is known for its religious and spiritual significance. It is home to over 500 temples, many of which are ancient and have a rich history. But the most famous and important temple in Pushkar is the Brahma Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god of creation, Lord Brahma. This temple is one of the very few existing temples in the world that worship Brahma, and the most prominent among them. Visit during One Day Pushkar Local Sightseeing By Private Cab
In this article, we will explore the overview, location, timing/entry fees, how to reach, things to do/must see, significance, FAQ’s and conclusion of this unique and sacred pilgrimage site.
Overview of Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple, also known as Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, is a Hindu temple situated at Pushkar in the Indian state of Rajasthan, close to the sacred Pushkar Lake to which its legend has an indelible link. The temple is made of marble and stone slabs, and has a distinct red pinnacle (shikhara) and a hamsa bird motif. The temple sanctum sanctorum holds the image of four-headed Brahma and his consort Gayatri (goddess of vedas). The temple is governed by the Sanyasi (ascetic) sect priesthood.
The temple structure dates to the 14th century, with later partial rebuilding. The temple is said to have been built by the sage Vishwamitra after Brahma’s yagna (ritual). It is also believed that Brahma himself chose the location for his temple. The 8th century Hindu philosopher Adi Shankara renovated this temple, while the current medieval structure dates to Maharaja Jawat Raj of Ratlam, who made additions and repairs, though the original temple design is retained.
The temple is one of the most sacred and revered pilgrimage sites for Hindus, as it is considered to be equivalent to attaining liberation to worship Brahma, who is rarely found. The temple also finds its mention in the prominent ten religious places of the world and the five sacred pilgrimages for Hindus in India. On Kartik Poornima, a festival dedicated to Brahma is held when large numbers of pilgrims visit the temple, after bathing in the sacred lake.
Location of Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple is located in Pushkar town, in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan state in India. It is situated near the Pushkar Lake, which is one of the five sacred lakes for Hindus. The temple is about 10 km from Ajmer city, and about 150 km from Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan.
Timing/Entry Fees of Brahma Temple
The temple is open for visitors every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM in summers, and from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM in winters. The temple remains closed from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM for lunch break. There is no entry fee for visiting the temple, but donations are accepted.
How to Reach Brahma Temple
The nearest airport to Pushkar is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 150 km away. From there, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Pushkar. The nearest railway station to Pushkar is Ajmer Junction Railway Station, which is about 10 km away. From there, one can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Pushkar. There are also regular buses available from Ajmer to Pushkar. Alternatively, one can also drive to Pushkar by taking the National Highway 48 or 58.
Things to Do/Must See Brahma Temple
Apart from visiting the Brahma Temple, there are many other things to do and see in Pushkar. Some of them are:
- Take a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake, which is believed to have been created by Brahma himself. The lake has 52 ghats (steps) where pilgrims can bathe and perform rituals. The lake also has many temples and shrines around it.
- Visit other temples in Pushkar, such as Savitri Temple (dedicated to Brahma’s first wife), Varaha Temple (dedicated to Vishnu’s boar incarnation), Rangji Temple (dedicated to Ranganatha), Apteshwar Temple (dedicated to Shiva), and many more.
- Enjoy the annual Pushkar Fair or Camel Fair, which is held in November every year. It is one of the largest and most colorful fairs in India, where thousands of camels, horses, cattle and other animals are traded and exhibited. The fair also features cultural events, competitions, folk dances, music and handicrafts.
- Explore the local markets and shops in Pushkar, where one can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, jewelry, clothes, books and more. One can also try the local cuisine, such as dal bati churma, malpua, kachori, lassi and more.
- Experience the spiritual and cultural vibe of Pushkar, which is known for its ashrams, yoga centers, meditation camps and festivals. One can also interact with the local people, who are friendly and hospitable.
Significance of Brahma Temple
The Brahma Temple is significant for many reasons. Some of them are:
- It is the only temple in India, and one of the few in the world, that is dedicated to Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism. Brahma is considered to be the source of all creation, and the first among the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
- It is believed that Brahma performed a yagna (sacrifice) at this place, along with his second wife Gayatri, after getting a curse from his first wife Savitri (Saraswati). The curse was that Brahma would not be worshipped anywhere else except at Pushkar. Hence, this temple is the only place where Brahma can be worshipped.
- It is also believed that Brahma himself chose this location for his temple, and that he dropped a lotus flower on the ground, which created the Pushkar Lake. The lake is considered to be very sacred and auspicious, and bathing in it is said to wash away one’s sins and grant salvation.
- It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus, as it is one of the five sacred dhams (abodes) for them. The other four are Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri and Rameswaram. Visiting these five places is said to fulfill one’s spiritual goals and desires.
- It is also one of the ten most religious places in the world, according to the International Business Times. It is a place where one can experience the divine presence and grace of Brahma, and seek his blessings.
FAQ’s
Q: Why is there only one temple for Brahma in India?
A: According to a legend, Brahma was cursed by his first wife Savitri (Saraswati) for marrying another woman Gayatri without her consent. She cursed him that he would not be worshipped anywhere else except at Pushkar, where he performed a yagna with Gayatri. Hence, there is only one temple for Brahma in India.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Brahma Temple?
A: The best time to visit the Brahma Temple is during the Kartik Poornima festival, which falls in October or November every year. This is when thousands of pilgrims flock to Pushkar to worship Brahma and take a dip in the holy lake. The temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and a grand aarti (worship) is performed at night.
Q: What are the rules and regulations for visiting the Brahma Temple?
A: The rules and regulations for visiting the Brahma Temple are:
One has to remove their shoes before entering the temple premises.
One has to dress modestly and respectfully, covering their shoulders and knees.
One has to maintain silence and decorum inside the temple.
One has to refrain from taking photographs or videos inside the temple.
One has to follow the instructions of the priests and staff.
Conclusion
The Brahma Temple is a unique and sacred pilgrimage site in Pushkar that attracts millions of devotees every year. It is a place where one can witness the glory and grace of Lord Brahma, who is the creator of the universe. It is also a place where one can experience the spiritual and cultural richness of Pushkar, which is a town full of temples, festivals, fairs and markets. Visiting the Brahma Temple is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should not be missed by anyone who wants to explore the essence of Hinduism.
