#templeofindia

Gwalior is a place where myth and history come together in an ancient inscription. Successive rulers have added to the architectural heritage of this city. Gwalior Fort, the pride of Gwalior is a structure with some of the finest architecture in the heart of incredible India.

The impressive Teli ka Mandir inside the Gwalior Fort, one of the tallest structures in the complex, is an example of the Dravidian style architecture and can be counted as one of the most beautiful shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It was built in 9th century AD during the reign of Pratihara king Mihir Bhoja. As per a legend, it was built with the money donated by oil merchants. Hence, the name Teli Ka Mandir! Tourists can also find this information in the inscription written on the main gate of the temple.

Around 30-meter in height, the temple comprises a sanctum accompanied by a porch and a doorway. There are stairs in the east to enter this marvelous architecture. The special feature of the temple is its arched roof, built in the Dravidian style. It is a perfect example of amalgamation of North Indian and South Indian temple architecture. The shape of the roof can be easily identified as an example of Dravidian style of architecture, while the embellishments are Indo-Aryan. The decorations resemble those found in northern India and figures of river goddesses, coiled serpents, amorous couples, and flying Garuda can be seen here.

The two pavilions and the entrance to the eastern side of the temple were built later by an English architect. The British used the temple courtyard as a coffee shop that is mentioned in the inscription on the main entrance.

Gwalior is best known for its imposing hilltop fort. If you are planning to explore the best tourist destinations in Gwalior, then browse the website of Madhya Pradesh Tourism that will help you to find travel and tourism-related information with photos, sightseeing, travel agents & tour guides.

There is something about Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations which fills up the surroundings with utmost positivity and festive cheer that everyone looks forward to enjoying. The festival conjures up the thought of seeking darshan of Vighna harta and of course grab a chance to relish on Bappa's favourite- Modaks!

This Ganesh Chaturthi take a trip to the very famous Chintaman Ganesh temple of Sehore to soak in the grand celebrations that take place every year. Among those naturally originated swayambhu (self manifested) temples in India, Sehore's Chintaman Ganesh temple also marks a place.Large number of devotees throng the temple to seek divine blessings. Read on to know more on some of the interesting tales associated with the temple and why devotees have a strong belief in drawing a reverse Swastik:

A temple of historical importance

This Temple is of historical importance as its dates back to the time of Maharaja Vikramaditya. Sehore was commonly known as Siddhpur in the kingdom of Vikramaditya. Chintaman Ganesh Temple is situated in the west-north of Sehore.

It is said that the ganesh idol in this temple was established by Vikramaditya and around 2000 years ago, the king of Ujjayani (Avantika) used to worship lord Chintaman Ganesh. One day lord Ganesh appeared in king's dream and gave him a message that he would appear in the form of lotus in one of the rivers in the west of the temple. Ganesha instructed the king to collect the flower and bring it with him and the king did exactly the same. However, on his way back the king again comes across a divine voice that instructed the king to take the flower anywhere he wanted to before sunrise. After sun rise the flower would turn into an idol and stay right there.

On the way the wheel of the chariot got stuck in the mud and couldn't be pulled out and as soon as the sunrises, flower turns into Lord Ganesha's idol which was also half buried in to the ground. Efforts were made to pull out the statue but all efforts went in vein. The King finally decided to leave the idol there thinking this was Lord Ganesha's wish and decided to build a temple there itself.

The belief of drawing a reverse swastik

For over the years now devotees have been drawing reverse swastik at a wall in the temple premises. Since swastik is considered to be an auspicious symbol and is drawn on pious occasions, devotees who visit the temple in utmost faith draw it on a wall inside the temple premises. But why at all a reverse swastik needs to be drawn? This tradition of drawing a reverse swastik has been continuing since ages. It is believed that one who draws a reverse swastik on the wall can make a wish and once the wish is fulfilled the devotee has to draw a correct swastik by visiting the temple once again. At first this tradition takes everyone by surprise but those who visit the temple and get to know about this age old tradition, certainly draw a reverse swastik making a wish.

Interesting isn't it? With its impressive historical background and an interesting tradition to follow, visiting Chintaman Ganesh temple, Sehore will give you a divine experience and a holy feeling as you seek Bappa's blessings.