Kuber Bhandari Temple: 2500-Year-Old Legacy

The Kuber Bhandari Temple is a Hindu temple located in Karnali village, Gujarat, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and regenerator among the Hindu triumvirate. Interestingly, while the temple’s name incorporates “Kuber,” the god of wealth, the main deity worshipped here is Lord Shiva.

Kuber Bhandari Temple History:

Estimated Age: The temple is estimated to be around 2,500 years old, though there’s no definitive archaeological proof to confirm this.

Origin Story: A popular legend says that Lord Shiva took the form of Kuber Bhandari, the provider of food and water, to cater to Goddess Parvati’s hunger and thirst during their travels. This story adds to the temple’s significance.

Uniqueness: It’s considered to be one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Kuber Bhandari.

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Legend of Kuber Bhandari Temple:

Once, Lord Shiva and Parvati were traveling through the area where the temple now stands. Parvati grew weary and desired food and water. However, Shiva couldn’t find any offerings in the deserted region.

Determined to ensure the comfort of his devotees in the future, Shiva decided to bless the place with his presence.

The legend says that Shiva’s divine intervention made sure no devotee ever went hungry or thirsty there again. The place came to be known as Kuber Bhandari, which translates to “Kuber, the Storekeeper.”

There’s another version of the legend that connects Kuber Bhandari to the story of Ravana, the demon king:

• In this version, Ravana, a devotee of Shiva, forcefully takes Kubera’s wealth and drives him away.
• Fearing Ravana’s wrath, Kubera seeks refuge with Shiva. However, Shiva explains that both he and Ravana are his devotees, and he cannot take sides in their dispute.
• Advised by Shiva, Kubera worships Durga Maa, the goddess of war, on the banks of the Narmada River. Pleased with his devotion, Durga Maa grants Kubera the boon of “Abhayadan” (fearlessness).
• The place where Kubera performed his penance is said to be Karnali, where the Kuber Bhandari Temple stands today.

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Significance of Kuber Bhandari Temple:

Uniqueness: It’s dedicated to Kuber Bhandari, a form of Lord Shiva considered the God of Wealth. It’s believed to be the only temple in the world dedicated to this specific form of Shiva.

Pilgrimage Site: Located on the banks of the Narmada River, a holy place in Hinduism, the temple attracts pilgrims from all over India, especially on auspicious days like new moon (Amavasya) and Somvati Amavasya (when Mondays coincide with Amavasya).

History & Mythology: Believed to be around 2500 years old, the temple is steeped in mythology. Legend says Ravana, the demon king, stole Kuber’s wealth, making the temple a pilgrimage site for those seeking prosperity.

Location: The temple sits on a hilltop overlooking the Narmada River, offering scenic beauty along with religious significance.

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Myths of Kuber Bhandari Temple:

Shiva and Parvati: In this story, Shiva and Parvati are traveling near the Narmada River when Parvati becomes hungry and thirsty. Unable to find sustenance, Shiva takes the form of Kuber Bhandari, the provider of food and water, to nourish travelers on their journeys ever since.

Kubera, the God of Wealth: This myth centers around Kubera, the Hindu god of wealth. The legend says Ravana, Kubera’s brother, stole his wealth and drove him out. Following Lord Shiva’s advice, Kubera prayed to Goddess Amba who granted him this specific area to rule. It is believed Ravana cannot enter this land, making it a place where prosperity can flourish.

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Interesting Facts of Kuber Bhandari Temple:

Unique Dedication: It’s the only temple in the world dedicated to Kuber Bhandari, a combination of the god of wealth, Kubera, and Bhandari, meaning “repository.”

Ancient Origins: Believed to be around 2500 years old, the temple is steeped in history and attracts pilgrims seeking blessings.

Riverside Location: Situated on the banks of the Narmada River, the temple offers a serene atmosphere with beautiful natural surroundings.

Challenging Climb: Devotees must climb around 700 steps to reach the temple perched atop a hill, adding an element of pilgrimage to the visit.

Special Significance: Amavasya (new moon) days are particularly auspicious for visiting the temple, drawing large crowds for special ceremonies.

Free Food Tradition: The temple upholds a tradition of offering free meals to devotees, reflecting the spirit of generosity and community.

Possible Ravana Connection: Legend says the temple location was granted to Kubera by Goddess Amba as a place Ravana couldn’t reach, after Ravana stole Kubera’s wealth.

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Kuber Bhandari Temple Timing:

Temple Darshan: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM Aarti Timings:

• Morning Aarti: 7:30 AM
• Evening Aarti: 8:30 PM

Places to visit near Kuber Bhandari Temple:

1. Somnath Temple: Somnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval, approximately 100 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple. It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Gujarat.
2. Dwarkadhish Temple: Dwarkadhish Temple, situated in Dwarka, is another significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is around 230 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple. Dwarka is considered one of the four main pilgrimage sites (Char Dham) for Hindus.
3. Gir National Park: Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Junagadh, approximately 160 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple. It is famous for being the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lions.
4. Girnar Hill: Girnar Hill, near Junagadh, is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Jains. It is around 175 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple and offers a challenging trek with stunning views from the top.
5. Junagadh Fort: Junagadh Fort, also known as Uparkot Fort, is an ancient fortification located in Junagadh, around 145 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple. It showcases a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain architectural styles.
6. Palitana Temples: Palitana is renowned for its cluster of Jain temples situated atop Shatrunjaya Hill. It is around 340 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple. The temples are considered one of the holiest Jain pilgrimage sites.
7. Diu Island: Diu, a small island town off the coast of Gujarat, is known for its beaches, Portuguese colonial architecture, and serene ambiance. It is approximately 220 kilometers from Kuber Bhandari Temple.

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FAQ:

What is the Kuber Bhandari Temple?

The Kuber Bhandari Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Karnali village, near the town of Chanod, in the Vadodara district of Gujarat, India. The temple is situated on the banks of the Narmada River and is believed to be around 2,500 years old.

Why is the temple called Kuber Bhandari?

There are a few different stories about why the temple is called Kuber Bhandari. One story says that Lord Kubera, the Hindu god of wealth, once lived here. Another story says that the temple is named after a king named Bhandari who was a devotee of Lord Shiva.

What is special about the temple?

The Kuber Bhandari Temple is a unique temple because it is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Kuber Bhandari. The temple is also known for its beautiful location on the banks of the Narmada River.

When is the best time to visit the temple?

The temple is open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the Hindu festivals of Amavasya (new moon day) and Somvati Amavasya (new moon day that falls on a Monday). These days are considered to be especially auspicious for visiting the temple.

How to reach the temple?

The Kuber Bhandari Temple can be reached by car or bus from Vadodara. Devotees have to cross the Narmada River by boat to reach the temple.

Here’s some additional information you might find helpful:

• The temple is believed to be around 2,500 years old, making it one of the oldest temples in Gujarat.
• There are around 700 steps that lead up to the temple from the river bank.
• There are a number of dharamshalas (guest houses) located near the temple where pilgrims can stay.
• Aarti (worship rituals) are performed at the temple five times a day.

How to reach Kuber Bhandari Temple:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kuber Bhandari Temple is Rajkot Airport (RAJ), located approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other public transportation to reach the temple.
2. By Train: The nearest major railway station to Kuber Bhandari Temple is Rajkot Junction (station code: RJT), which is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India. From Rajkot, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach the temple.
3. By Road:
   • From Rajkot: Kuber Bhandari Temple is approximately 150 kilometers from Rajkot. You can take a taxi or drive via NH27 and other state highways, which will take around 3-4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
   • From Ahmedabad: If you’re traveling from Ahmedabad, the distance to Kuber Bhandari Temple is approximately 320 kilometers. You can drive or take a bus via NH47 and NH27, which will take around 6-7 hours.
   • From other cities in Gujarat: Depending on your starting point, you can plan your route using major highways and state roads. Gujarat has a well-developed road network, and you can easily reach Kuber Bhandari Temple by car, bus, or private taxi.

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