The famous Jyotiba Temple at Wadi Ratnagiri atop Panhala
near Kolhapur in Maharashtra represents both the sacred fire or jyoti and the
sun god (surya) in the form of fire. Jyotiba temple is around 20 km from Kolhapur.
The temple of Jyotiba represents the architectural form
evolved around Kolhapur. The Shikharas of the temple are many faceted, and are
strengthened by the predominant rathapatta, which reaches upto the kalasha.
Jyotiba Temple – Architecture
The precinct of the temple has a magnificent gateway of
stone, with a strong recessed pointed arch. There are numerous slender
Deepmalas, which are typical of Maratha temples within the temple.
The popularity of the deity led to its renovation often, and
additions have been made in different places. The complex is paved and
cloisters are constructed on the sides.
The walls of the temple are plain and offset, to give a
feeling of contrast. Small arched openings add to the feeling of massiveness.
The patronage of the Shindes has resulted in a strong and
well-built temple. It is evident from the details of the columns, the nandi,
and other decorations.
Deccani and Southern influence is clearly visible in the
massive construction.
The turbulent times during which the temple was completed
resulted in a limited variety of ornamentation and a massive stone
construction.
The use of heavy and massive podiums add to the visual
impact and aesthetics of the temple complex.
The Yamai temple in the complex is smaller and has a rectangular
sabhamandapa and slender shikhara with a rathapatta. The sabhamandapa has canopies
which are supported by regular brackets. Simple mould bands run around the
structure lending unity to the mass.
History Of Jyotiba Temple
The original temple was constructed by Navji Saya. The
present temple was constructed by Ranoji Shinde in 1730 AD. The Kedareshwar
temple in the comple was constructed in 1808 by the Daulatrao Shinde. Ramalinga
temple was constructed by Malji Nilam Panyalkar in 1780 AD. The Yamai temple
and Jamadagni tank were constructed by Ranoji Shinde.
Jyotiba sits on a horse, and therefore it is possible that
he many symbolically represent the sun god. The image faces south, towards
Mahalakshmi temple, in Kolhapur as a protective gesture towards her.
God Worshipped At Jyotiba Temple
It is believed that Kedarnath (Shiva) from North was invited
by Goddess Mahalakshmi to overpower demons who were harassing people in the
region. Since then Kedarnath Shivling is associated with Jyotiba, and Shiva and
The Sun God are merged into one God at Jyotiba Temple.
There is a belief that Shiva defeated Demon Ratnasur on the
hill. As per some devotees Shiva took the fierce Kalbhairav form to defeat the
demon.
The deity is also referred to as Khandoba.
The influences of local traditions are clearly visible on
the rituals and stories associated with the temple.
There are several historic references connecting the temple
to fire worship.
The deity is the family deity of many Maratha and other
communities in Maharashtra.
The priests belonging to the Gurav community reside in the
town. Many families in Maharashtra has a Gurav priest, and they visit the same
Gurav family for generations.
Festival – Pujas – Rituals
The most important associated with the shrine is observed on
the full moon day in Chaitra month (April) – Chaitra Purnima.
Sunday is the most important day in the shrine and many
families visit Jyotiba on the day.
A great stimulus and inspiration is provided by the drums
and music played by the devotees. Gulal, vermilion and dry coconut are showered
on the the murti during processions.
The kathya procession held during important rituals and
festivals is noted for yellow, red and pink colors.
Procession From Jyotiba Temple To Yamai Temple
God Jyotiba visits his sister Yamai on the Chaitra Purnima
day with great pomp. The temple of Yamai is located at a distance from the
Jyotiba complex. Sasan Kathya, or bamboos 10 to 12 meters in height decorated
with tufts and wrapped in red and white cloth are taken in procession. Four
people hold the ropes tied to support these bamboos, and at the base of the
bamboo there is a horizontal plank to support them on the shoulder.
Chang Bhale, Chang Bhale slogan is shouted in the procession
and it reaches Yamai, where the doors of the temple are closed for a while.