History of Construction of Jwalamukhi Temple
Raja Bhumi Chand, the brave and ambitious ruler of Kangra, was known for his unwavering devotion to the divine. One night, as he lay in deep meditation, a vision appeared to him. In his vision, a celestial being revealed to Raja Bhumi Chand the existence of a powerful goddess named Jwalamukhi, who resided in the depths of the Himalayan mountains. The goddess Jwalamukhi was said to be the embodiment of fire, and her temple was believed to hold immense spiritual power. The vision filled Raja Bhumi Chand with a sense of purpose and he vowed to honour the goddess by constructing a magnificent temple in her name.
Inspired by his divine vision, Raja Bhumi Chand set out on a mission to find the exact location of the Jwalamukhi temple and bring the divine presence of goddess Jwalamukhi to his kingdom. With the support of his trusted advisers and a team of skilled architects and engineers, Raja Bhumi Chand began his quest to build the Jwalamukhi temple. He scoured the mountains, seeking guidance from sages and locals, hoping to uncover the hidden sanctuary of Jwalamukhi.
After months of searching, Raja Bhumi Chand stumbled upon an ancient cave nestled amidst the towering peaks. Inside the cave, a divine flame flickered and danced without any source of fuel, confirming that this was indeed the sacred abode of goddess Jwalamukhi. Overwhelmed with joy and reverence, Raja Bhumi Chand knew that he had found the perfect location for the temple. With the help of his celestial ministers, Wind, Rain, and Clouds, Raja Bhumi Chand set to work on the construction of the Jwalamukhi temple. The sacred sandalwood tree atop Mount T’aebaek was chosen as the centerpiece of the temple, symbolizing the divine presence of Jwalamukhi.
Under the guidance of Raja Bhumi Chand, the people of Kangra came together to support the construction effort. They worked tirelessly, carving intricate designs and adorning the temple with precious stones and ornaments. As the temple took shape, word of its grandeur spread far and wide. Pilgrims from all corners of the kingdom and beyond flocked to witness the marvel of the Jwalamukhi temple. Their hearts filled with awe and reverence as they experienced the divine energy radiating from the sacred flame.
The temple became a beacon of spirituality, attracting devotees seeking blessings, healing, and guidance from goddess Jwalamukhi. The construction of the Jwalamukhi temple became a symbol of unity and devotion within the kingdom of Kangra.
Over time, devotees built a beautiful temple structure around this divine phenomenon, making it a place of worship and pilgrimage. The construction of the Jwalamukhi Temple showcases remarkable craftsmanship and architectural skills. The temple is built in the traditional Nagara style of architecture, characterized by its tall spires and intricate carvings. The main sanctum of the temple houses a sacred flame that is believed to be the eternal manifestation of Goddess Jwalamukhi. The flame, known as the Jwala Devi, is considered to be self-emanating and has been burning continuously for centuries. The daily rituals at the Jwalamukhi Temple are conducted with great devotion and reverence.
The temple opens early in the morning, before sunrise, and remains open until late in the evening, allowing devotees to visit and seek blessings at their convenience. The daily rituals include offerings of flowers, incense, and lamps to the sacred flame. Devotees also offer prayers, chant mantras, and perform aarti (a ritual involving the waving of lamps) to express their devotion to Goddess Jwalamukhi. The Jwalamukhi Temple holds significant prominence in Hindu mythology and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, where different parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen.