Bharat Mata Temple– A Journey Through History & Spirituality

Bharat Mata Temple, Daulatabad Fort: Where History Meets Devotion

Discover the Bharat Mata Temple at Daulatabad Fort—a saga of Jain, Islamic, and Hindu heritage. Explore history, architecture, and travel tips for Aurangabad’s crown jewel!

➤ Introduction: The Legacy of Daulatabad Fort

Nestled 16 km northwest of Aurangabad, Daulatabad Fort is a marvel of medieval engineering and a testament to India’s turbulent history. Perched on a 200-meter-high conical hill, this UNESCO-listed site has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties—from the Yadavas to the Mughals—and houses the Bharat Mata Temple, a symbol of resilience and cultural reclamation.

But what makes this temple unique? Originally a Jain shrine from the 6th century CE, it was converted into the Jama Masjid during Islamic rule, only to be restored as a temple dedicated to Mother India in 1948. Today, it stands as a bridge between eras, blending Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architectural motifs.

➨ Key Highlights

⦿ Historical Significance: A 1,500-year-old site of Jain worship, later repurposed as a mosque, and finally reclaimed as a temple.

⦿ Architectural Fusion: 152 intricately carved pillars, Chalukyan emblems, and Indo-Islamic domes.

⦿ Strategic Location: Part of the Daulatabad Fort complex, a fortress deemed “invincible” for centuries.

Uncover the layers of faith, politics, and architecture at Maharashtra’s iconic landmark

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➤ History: From Jain Temple to Bharat Mata Mandir

➨ Ancient Origins (6th–12th Century CE)

The site began as a Jain temple during the Chalukyan era, evidenced by pillars engraved with the Kirtimukh emblem and terracotta-colored stonework. Ibn Battuta, the 14th-century traveler, described Daulatabad (then Devagiri) as a city rivalling Delhi in grandeur.

➨ Islamic Conquest & Conversion (14th–18th Century)

In 1318, Delhi Sultanate ruler Qutb-ud-din Mubarak Khilji demolished the temple to build the Jama Masjid, repurposing 106 pillars from Hindu and Jain structures. The mosque served as a religious centre until the 1940s.

➨ Reclamation & Restoration (1948)

Post-India’s independence, leaders like Sardar Patel and K.M. Munshi spearheaded the temple’s shuddhi (reconversion). To avoid communal tensions, an idol of Bharat Mata (Mother India) was installed, symbolising unity over sectarianism.

➤ Architecture: A Tapestry of Cultures

➨ The Pillared Hall

⦿ 152 Stone Pillars: Carved in the Himar Panti style (interlocking stones without mortar), these pillars once supported a flat roof, later modified with a dome during Islamic rule.

⦿ Chalukyan Motifs: Look for the Kirtimukh (lion-faced) engravings on beams—a signature of Chalukyan craftsmanship.

➨ The Dome & Courtyard

⦿ The central dome, added during mosque construction, contrasts with the temple’s original mandapa (hall) layout.

⦿ A vast courtyard, typical of Jain temples, now hosts devotees celebrating festivals like Republic Day.

➨ Nearby Structures

👉 Chand Minar: A 65-meter victory tower mirroring Delhi’s Qutub Minar, built by Bahmani Sultan Ala-ud-din in 1435.

👉 Chini Mahal: A Mughal-era prison adorned with Chinese tiles, where Aurangzeb imprisoned Golconda’s last king.

➤ Distance from Major Cities

City	Distance (km)	Travel Time
Aurangabad	30 km	45-minutes
Nashik	170 km	3–4 hours
Pune	235 km	4–5 hours
Mumbai	340 km	6–7 hours
Hyderabad	560 km	9–10 hours

Tip: Combine your visit with the Ellora Caves (30 km away) for a full-day historical tour.

➤ How to Reach Bharat Mata Temple

➨ By Air

⦿ Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (30 km). Pre-book taxis for a 45-minute drive.

➨ By Train

⦿ Aurangabad Railway Station: Hire an auto-rickshaw to Jai Vishwa Bharti Colony (20 mins, ₹80–100).

➨ By Road

⦿ From Mumbai: Take NH160 via Nashik (6-hour scenic drive).

⦿ Local Buses: MSRTC buses run hourly from Aurangabad Bus Stand to Daulatabad Fort .

➤ Best Time to Visit

⦿ October–February: Pleasant weather (15–28°C), ideal for climbing the fort.

⦿ Monsoon Avoidance: Slippery pathways make the Andheri tunnel hazardous.

➤ Things to Do at Daulatabad Fort

👉 Explore the Andheri Tunnel: Navigate this pitch-dark, spike-lined passage used to trap invaders.

👉 Climb the Chand Minar: Though entry is restricted, the exterior offers stunning photo ops.

👉 Admire the Cannons: Spot Aurangzeb’s Mendha Tope (Ram-shaped cannon) near Chini Mahal.

➤ FAQs

Is the Bharat Mata Temple free to enter?

Yes, but Daulatabad Fort charges ₹25 for Indians and ₹300 for foreigners.

Can I take photos inside the temple?

Yes, but avoid flash near the idol.

Are guides available?

Licensed guides charge ₹500 – ₹800 for a 2-hour tour.

➤ Conclusion: A Monument of Resilience

The Bharat Mata Temple is more than a religious site—it’s a chronicle of India’s layered past. From Jain ascetics to Mughal emperors, each era left its mark, culminating in a tribute to national unity. As you walk through its pillared halls, remember Sardar Patel’s vision: an India where history is honoured, not erased.

Plan Your Visit: Pair this temple with Ellora’s Kailasa Cave for a spiritual-historical deep dive!

Ready to step into history? Share this guide with fellow travellers or book your Aurangabad trip today! 🛕✨