Galteshwar Mahadev Temple

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CategoryHindu Temples

Languages KnownGujarati, Hindi, English

AddressGalteshwar Mahadev Temple, Sarnal Village, Vadodara, Gujarat.

pincode388245

DistrictVadodara

History

Galteshwar, situated on the confluence of the rivers Mahi and Galti hosts a Shiva temple from the Solanki era. About 16 km from the temple town of Dakor, the place is declared as ancient and cultural heritage site by the ASI. Thus, elevating Galteshwar as a picnic cum pilgrimage destination near Anand, Nadiad or Vadodara.

About 16 km from Dakor is a Shiva temple of the Solanki era, situated on the alluring sangam (confluence) of the rivers Mahi and Galati where it is said lived Galav Muni Chandrahaas of Puranic fame. At present the lovely rocky bank of Mahi and the beautiful old Shiva temple on it has one spring of the River Galati constantly sprinkling water on the Shiva linga. Rich in art and architecture, it has a unique eight-sided hall. The walls have carved figures of Gods, gandharvas, humans, rishis, horse riders, elephant riders, chariots, doli (palanquins) and the events of a human life, from birth to death, are all depicted in these carvings.

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The eight sided temple is an excellent model of red stone carving. Built in the Solanki era (10 to 13th century), the foundation as well as the adroitly carved figures are still intact. Zooming in the retina would reveal the carved figures of gods, humans, chariots, horse riders, elephants and various events of human life. The carvings are much more detailed inside of the unique eight-sided hall.

Looking at the way pilgrims rub their hands on sculptures and then touch forehead, without even observing the carvings, I had a silly thought that the carvings are decayed more due to the fingers than the time.

One thing anyone could easily notice is the unorthodox shape of the temple roof. Actually, the temple doesn’t have a roof. There are two theories explaining the cause.

This theory says that Lord Shiva constructed the temple all by himself. However, he didn’t want anyone to identify him. Work in the night and leave the place before the sunrise. Unfortunately, Shiva couldn’t accomplish the mission and left the temple as it is.

As per this story, after looting the rich temples of Somnath, when Mahmud Ghazni saw Galteshwar, he destroyed the roof.