Sukrala Mata Mandir
Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess in Kathua district,Jammu Kashmir, India From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Sukrala Mata Mandir is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Sukrala Mata, a form of the goddess Mal, Sharada Devi,[1] worshipped in the Duggar region. The temple is located on a hillock[2] at Sukrala village near Najot village[3] north of Billawar town, Kathua district, in Jammu division. The shrine dedicated to the goddess was built by rulers of Jammu and Chamba princely states.[4] Myriads of devotees flock to pay obeisance to the goddess during Navratri festival.[5]
| Sukrala Mata Mandir | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Hinduism |
| District | Kathua |
| Deity | Goddess Sukrala Devi |
| Festivals | Navaratri |
| Location | |
| Location | Billawar To Najot Village |
| State | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Country | India |
 | |
| Website | |
| shrimalmatasukraladevidharmiktrust | |
Location
Tucked away in the picturesque Sukrala village is called the Najot Village[3] nearby the town of Billawar of Jammu division, lies the Sukrala Mata Mandir, a temple of immense religious significance and natural beauty. This ancient shrine is dedicated to Goddess Sukrala Mata, a revered deity in the region, and attracts devotees from far and wide.[6] The temple is located at height of 3500 feet[2] and its surroundings are a treat for nature lovers, with lush green forests, rolling hills, and a serene atmosphere.[7]
Local tradition and history
According to local legend, Goddess Sukrala Mata is a manifestation of either Goddess Sharada of Kashmir or combined form of Tridevi. The Goddess manifested at this spot on request of local devotee named Trilochan.[8] Pandit Suraj Narayan, the Guru of celebrated Dogra court poet Devi Dutt (also known as Dattu), established a Shri-yantra at Sukrala Mata Mandir.[9] A temple on the site was rebuilt by Raja Madho Singh, the banished Prince of Chamba state.[1] The temple was later on renovated and expanded by installation of a Vigraha of Goddess Mahishasuramardini in 1755 AD by Dogra ruler Raja Brajrajdev,[4] who was son of Raja Ranjitdev of Jammu.[10]
Temple architecture
The Sukrala Mata Mandir is an exemplary example of Dogra architecture, blending traditional and medieval styles of Krimachi temples.[11] The temple's facade is adorned with intricate carvings and ornate decorations, while its interior features a beautifully crafted Vigraha of the Goddess.[4]
Festivals and celebrations
The temple celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including Chaitra Navaratri and Aashwin Navratri.[12] During these times, the temple is adorned with vibrant decorations, and devotees throng to offer prayers and seek the Goddess's blessings.[5]
Culture and influences
Goddess Sukrala Devi is highly revered in the Dogra society. In 18th century, the notable Dogri poet and priest Shiva Ram composed an eight-line poem titled "Jai Ho Bar Daat" (Hail O Boon-Giver) in reverence to Goddess Sukrala Devi. The language of this poem is mix of Sanskrit, Dogri and Braj Bhasha.[13]
In Dogra tradition, Goddess Sukrala Devi is regarded as elder sister of Goddess Vaishno Devi.[14]
See also
References
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