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Imagine walking into a centuries-old temple expecting flowers and sweets as offerings—only to find wine being poured as a sacred bhog! Yes, you heard that right. Tucked away inside the magnificent Amber Fort in Jaipur, Shila Devi Temple shatters every notion of traditional Hindu worship.
A Jaw-Dropping Custom That Defies Tradition
In most Hindu temples, devotees offer sweets, coconuts, or flowers to their deities. But here? Wine is offered to Goddess Kali and later distributed among devotees as prasadam! At first, it seems unbelievable—how could wine hold spiritual significance? But this age-old practice has roots in ancient Tantric traditions where wine symbolizes transformation and divine energy.
The Legend That Started It All
Shila Devi Temple’s story dates back to the late 16th century when Raja Man Singh I, a powerful general under Emperor Akbar, sought divine blessings before a crucial battle in Bengal. According to legend, the goddess appeared in his dream, instructing him to retrieve her idol from the depths of the sea. The idol—carved from a sacred stone slab (shila)—was found near the Bay of Bengal and brought back to Amber Fort, where it has been revered ever since.
The Architectural Grandeur
Entering the temple feels like stepping into a mystical realm. The grand silver doors, intricate carvings, and mesmerizing chants create a spiritual atmosphere that leaves visitors in awe. Though animal sacrifices were once part of the worship here, they’ve been largely discontinued. Today, the focus remains on maintaining the goddess’s blessings through traditional offerings—one of which is the astonishing wine ritual.
Why Is Wine Offered?
While it may seem shocking, offering wine to Goddess Kali aligns with Tantric beliefs, where powerful deities receive offerings that symbolize vitality and transformation. Some compare it to the traditions of Kal Bhairav temples in India, where liquor is similarly presented as a sacred gift. While many may not be comfortable with this practice, the temple offers alternative blessings like charnamrit (holy water), respecting every devotee’s personal beliefs.
Best Time to Experience the Magic
To truly witness the temple’s energy, visit during Navratri—the grand festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. The entire fort resonates with spiritual chants, vibrant colors, and thousands of devotees. Even outside of Navratri, the temple’s unique traditions and incredible atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Jaipur.
Final Thoughts: A Tradition That Leaves You Speechless
If you thought you knew all about Hindu worship, think again! Shila Devi Temple turns every expectation upside down, proving that spirituality can take unexpected forms. The next time you visit Amber Fort, don’t just admire the royal halls—step into Shila Devi Temple and witness a ritual that will challenge everything you thought you knew about devotion.
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