In the heart of Varanasi, where spiritual reverence and historical grandeur intertwine, lies a temple unlike any other—the Bharat Mata Temple. This unique sanctuary, dedicated not to a deity but to the very essence of the nation, stands as a monumental tribute to India itself. Imagine a space where, instead of gods and goddesses, you encounter the expansive map of undivided India, meticulously carved in pristine marble. It’s a place where national pride and unity are celebrated.
Experience National Unity At Bharat Mata Temple
Bharat Mata Mandir
Akhand bharat in 3D made 100 years ago at Sigra Varanasi Uttar Pradesh Bharat India.
14000 years ago the sea water was 100 metres less than today and the land boundaries of bharat were further out
12209 BCE the year of Ramayana pic.twitter.com/yc15OGCXTt
— Samir Panday (@SamirIndology) July 22, 2024
Bharat Mata Mandir, also known as the “Mother India Temple,” is singular in its dedication to the concept of Bharat Mata, or Mother India. Unlike traditional temples adorned with statues of deities, this temple boasts a massive marble map of undivided India. It was meticulously carved to depict the diverse geographical features of the subcontinent.
The map includes the mountains, plains, and oceans. It offers a scale representation of the Indian subcontinent as it was before partition. The temple’s roots trace back to 1918, with construction completed in 1924. It was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on October 25, 1936, in the presence of prominent figures like Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Vallabhbhai Patel.
Gandhi’s vision for the temple was clear: a space devoid of religious icons, embodying unity across different faiths and social groups. The temple was the brainchild of Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a philanthropist and freedom fighter. He aimed to create a space that transcended religious boundaries and symbolised a united India.
An Architectural Marvel In Varanasi
Varanasi has this unique 3D Map of “#BharatMata“, to scale,praan pratishtha was done, inaugurated by Gandhi ji.
A wonder for all to see. 🙏
( Bharat Mata Mandir, Varanasi)#IncredibleIndia pic.twitter.com/u8TASP8Yft— Sushil Pandey (@iSushilPandey) May 3, 2020
The structure of Bharat Mata Mandir is as remarkable as its purpose. Built from sturdy stone, the temple is designed in the shape of a pentagon. It symbolises the five elements of nature: Earth, Wind, Fire, Sky, and Water. This architectural choice reflects a deep respect for natural harmony and balance.
The temple’s centrepiece is the marble map of undivided India. The map includes territories that were part of India before the partition, including present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, known historically as Ceylon. The temple operates daily from 9:30 am to 8 pm. It attracts a steady flow of visitors, especially on notable days such as Independence Day and Republic Day.
Bharat Mata Mandir promises a memorable and enlightening experience.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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