Meera and Kumbha Shyam Temple . Near Vijay Stambh stands a complex of two important temples: the Kumbha Shyam (Varaha) Temple and the Meera (Meerabai) Temple. Architecturally, Kumbha Shyam is the larger, with a high shikhara, mandapa and richly carved pillars; Meera’s shrine is smaller but emotionally powerful because it is associated with the saint-poet Meerabai. Devotees see paintings or icons of Meera offering bhajans to Krishna; the courtyard often echoes with sung bhajans and bells. Together the temples show how royal Vaishnava worship and intense personal bhakti coexisted in Chittorgarh.
About this place
History & highlights
The Kumbha Shyam Temple was originally a Varaha (Vishnu) temple, renovated and expanded by Rana Kumbha in 1433 CE, reflecting his strong support for Hindu temple-building within the fort. The Meera Temple in the same complex is believed to date from Kumbha’s period as well; later traditions associate it with Meerabai (c. 1498–1546), the Rajput princess of Merta married into the Mewar royal family at Chittor. According to legend, Meera renounced royal life here to live as a devotee of Krishna, composing bhajans and surviving attempts on her life (including poison) through divine grace. While precise historical details are debated, the temple has long been a major Vaishnava pilgrimage spot and symbol of bhakti poetry.
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