Kumbha Shyam Temple, Chittorgarh – The Temple Complex

Kumbha Shyam Temple, Chittorgarh – The Temple Complex

The temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala, sabha mandapa and entrance porch. The sabha mandapa has a pyramidical roof. The sabha mandapa is enclosed by lower parapet walls with kakasanas in the interior. The pillars of the sabha mandapa are intricately carved. This is a sandhara temple, having common ambulatory passage around its sanctum. The sanctum has balconies on three sides for light and ventilation. The sanctum enshrines an image of Krishna and Balarama.

The image of the Varaha can be seen behind the image of Krishna and Balarama. Varaha is considered as the original presiding deity of this temple. The shikara over the sanctum follows nagara style of architecture. The archways in the temple are adorned by intersecting loops and patterns. The exterior and interior walls are decorated with sculptures of Hindu deities, kings, animals, floral motifs and geometrical patterns. Garuda, housed in a mandapa, can be seen in the courtyard facing towards the sanctum.

Meera Bai Temple:

Meera Bai Temple is situated to the right side of the Kumbha Shyam Temple. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and sabha mandapa with an entrance porch. The sabha mandapa is enclosed by lower parapet walls with kakasanas in the interior. The pillars of the sabha mandapa are intricately carved showing ghatapallava design. The sanctum enshrines an image of Mira Bai in her trademark saffron Sari. She holds ektara in hand and lost in the Bhakti of Krishna. The sanctum also enshrines image of Lord Krishna.

Swami Ravi Das Chhatri:

There is a Chhatri (Cenotaph) dedicated to Swami Ravi Das, the Guru of Meera Bhai. It is situated opposite to the Meera Bhai Temple. It has the foot prints of Swami Ravi Das.

Kali Shrine:

There is a sub shrine for Kali Mata can be seen in the temple premises.