Chaitra Navratri: The Sacred Journey to Chilay Mata on Sarund Hill
Nestled in the Kotputli-Behror district, the Chilay Mata temple in Sarund village stands as a powerful beacon of faith. Perched atop a hill nearly 650 feet high, this ancient shrine draws thousands of devotees during the Chaitra Navratri festival. Pilgrims must ascend 282 steep steps and pass through seven gates before finally reaching the sanctum where the goddess resides.
A Legacy Linked to the Pandavas
Local tradition holds that the temple was founded by the Pandava brothers during their period of exile, known as the agyatavas. Since those ancient times, Chilay Mata has been revered as a guardian deity who shields nearby rural communities from disease and adversity. For generations, villagers have placed their trust in her protective power.
History and Legends of the Temple
According to Mahant Nandkishore Sharma, the temple’s chief priest, the shrine’s history includes a notable episode from the Mughal era. Emperor Akbar is said to have tested the idol’s spiritual power but failed in his attempts. Later, a dome was constructed at the site, marking a significant addition to the temple’s architecture. These stories have woven themselves into the fabric of local belief, adding layers of reverence to the site.
Sacred Spaces Within the Complex
The temple grounds hold more than just the main shrine. A large peepal tree stands within the complex, where devotees tie sacred threads, or kalava, as they pray for happiness and prosperity. Surrounding the central temple are smaller shrines dedicated to the Chausath Yoginis, Bhairu Baba, and Shani Dev. These deities are believed to serve as guardians, protecting the main temple and its worshippers. An unusual but well-established tradition involves offering liquor to the goddess, a practice that continues to this day.
The Grandeur of Navratri Festivities
During the nine nights of Navratri, the temple transforms into a vibrant hub of devotion. The eighth and ninth days, Ashtami and Navami, are marked by a large fair that attracts pilgrims from far-off places. Locals firmly believe that Chilay Mata, often called Sarund Mata, watches over nearly one hundred villages in the region. Many villagers credit her blessings for keeping their communities free from major epidemics. Some even point to the COVID-19 pandemic as evidence, noting that the area experienced remarkably few casualties—a fact they attribute to the goddess’s grace.
Pilgrims from Across the Country
Devotees travel from cities such as Jaipur, Delhi, Sikar, Alwar, Narnaul, Patan, and even Kolkata to seek the goddess’s blessings. The temple authorities have improved access by installing fiber shades and railings along the staircase. A ropeway trolley system helps transport supplies up the hill, making the journey easier for visitors. Many families and communities worship Sarund Mata as their kuldevi, or clan goddess, and the temple regularly hosts religious ceremonies including mundan (head-shaving rituals), jats (community feasts), jalwa (processions), and bhandaras (communal meals).
