The Jagat Shiromani Temple, often referred to as the Meera Bai Temple, is one of the most beautiful and ornate temples in Amer, near Jaipur. While Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Jaipur, the Jagat Shiromani Temple is a lesser-known treasure that has been gaining popularity among tourists over the past few years.
A Brief History
The Jagat Shiromani Temple dates back to 1599 AD and took about nine years to complete. It was built in memory of Jagat Singh, the eldest son of Maharajah Man Singh I, by his mother, Rani Kanakwati. The temple stands as a testament to their devotion and architectural prowess. The temple can be accessed from the main entrance on Fort Road in Amer town or through a flight of steps leading from Amer Fort.
Architectural Marvel
One of the temple’s most striking features is its marble Torans, or pylons, which are made from a single piece of marble. These Torans are typically found in Jain temples, showcasing the unique blend of Jain, Hindu, Mughal, and South Indian architectural styles. This fusion of styles is reminiscent of the Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur, creating a visually stunning masterpiece.
The temple is constructed using three different types of stone: local sandstone, marble, and black stone, possibly granite. This combination of materials enhances the temple’s aesthetic appeal, distinguishing it from other temples in the area, which are often built from a single type of stone.
Stories and Legends
The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and houses idols of Lord Krishna and Meera Bai. Meera Bai, a devout follower of Lord Krishna, considered him her husband. It is believed that the idol of Lord Krishna in this temple is the same one Meera Bai worshipped in Mewar over 600 years ago. This idol was saved from destruction during a Mughal attack on Mewar and brought to Amer by the rulers of the time.
According to popular legend, the ornate Toran at the entrance of the temple symbolizes the supposed marriage of Meera Bai to Lord Krishna. However, some historians argue that the temple might have originally been intended as a Jain temple, given the prevalence of Jain architectural elements and the significant Jain population in Amer at the time.
Intricate Carvings and Frescoes
The temple’s ceiling features beautiful frescoes, although they have deteriorated over time due to poor maintenance. The walls, especially the pedestal section and the canopy housing Garuda, the carrier of Lord Vishnu, are adorned with intricate carvings. These carvings depict various scenes, including an army of elephants, horses, and tigers, as well as jubilant processions of people and birds, possibly peacocks. Above the pedestal are three marble plates depicting characters from Indian mythology.
Visiting Jagat Shiromani Temple
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains the Jagat Shiromani Temple. It is located in Amer town and can be easily reached within a few minutes from Amer Fort. Visitors can take the left lane after the Amer Elephant Stand on Amer Road to reach the temple. The temple is an essential part of the heritage walking tour of Amer town, with many tour leaders starting or ending their walks at this historical site.
Temple Timings
The Jagat Shiromani Temple is open daily from 6 AM to 1 PM and from 4 PM to 8 PM.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting the Jagat Shiromani Temple, you can also explore nearby attractions such as:
- Amer Fort: A majestic fort with stunning architecture and rich history.
- Ambikeshwar Temple: Another beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Panna Meena Kund: An ancient stepwell with intricate designs.
- Badrinath Temple: A serene temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Anokhi Museum: A museum showcasing traditional block printing techniques.
The Jagat Shiromani Temple is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of heritage, architecture, and religious significance. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or a devout pilgrim, this temple is a must-visit on your trip to Jaipur.