Ashwa Poojan
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Navratri in Mewar
Mewar has been a devotee of various forms of Goddess Durga, also known as ‘Shakti Peeth’ from times immemorial. The House of Mewar has often made generous contributions to construct, strengthen, renovate and maintain many small temples, ‘devras’ and other places of worship of Goddess Durga. Most of these temples are owned and managed by Shree Eklingji Trust. Currently, the maintenance and of these temples and facilities for the devotees is being monitored and performed by the Chairman and Managing Trustee of Shree Eklingji Trust, Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar.
Temples
1. Shree Baanmata ji: Established as a Kuldevi of Mewar family, Shree Baanmata ji was brought in fourteen century to Mewar from Purpatan (Gujarat). According to Badwo ki Khyat, the mother of Maharana Lakshma Singh (Lakha) went to Dwarka for pilgrimage and on return, it is believed that in a small wooden box Baanmata ji also came with the Solanki Queen Mother to Mewar. As times were turbulent, due to invasions from all sides therefore to avoid any hindrance regarding Goddess's worshipping, this responsibility was handed over to the chief priest of Mewar’s Bhatt family. Since then, Kuldevi Baanmata’s idol stays at Bhatt Ji’s residence and worshipped daily. During both the Navratras, on 1st day in morning at 6.30 am Baanmata ji is brought to the Palace from Bhatt Ji’s house with band, horse procession, Palace Guards and stays there in Shiv Shakti Parisar till Ashtami’s Yagna is completed. After completion of Asthmi’s Yagna and pooja, Goddess is again taken back to Bhatt Ji’s residence with the same procession and with gaiety.
2. Shree Amba Mataji, Eklingnath ji: At the Southern gate of the Shree Eklingnathji temple of Kailashpuri is a white stone idol of Amba Mata. Located at a height, it represents a pleasant form of Ma Ambey.
3. Shree Annapurna Mataji, Udaipur: The stunning white stone idol of Shree Annapurna Mata was established by Maharana Amar Singh I in 1616 AD at the main gate (Badi Pol) of City Palace, Udaipur. A special puja is offered to the idol for nine consecutive days during the ‘Ashwin’ month of the Hindu calendar.
4. Shree Vindhywasini Mataji, Kailashpuri: To the North of the outer boundary wall of Shree Eklingnathji temple of Kailashpuri is a Vindhyvasini temple located on an elevated platform. Although there is no evidence of the foundation of this temple, Ekling Mahatmya suggests that Lord Indra had worshipped this Goddess and was blessed by her. The Sabha Mandap of this temple boasts of eight ‘Matrikas’ (idols) which seem to belong to the 16th century. Black stone idol of Vindhywasini Mataji is an artistic marvel. A structure of ‘Kankal Bhairav’ (Skeleton) is placed on both the sides of the gate outside the sanctum of temple The Goddess has her vehicle, ‘The Lion’, placed in front of her. This idol is worshipped post Shree Eklingnathji’s ‘Trikal Puja’. A special puja is also performed, during both the Navratras.
5. Shree Kalika Mataji, Chittorgarh: Situated on a rock in the world famous historic Fort of Chittorgarh is the Kalika Mata temple. Embossed craft work on its pillars, ceiling and gates indicate that it was built in 10th century of V.S. This temple is not under the possession of Shree Eklingji Trust, however, daily worship and offering is made by the trust and Yagna is performed during both the Navratras. Earlier the Maharanas would visit the temple during Navratra and animal sacrifice was made by them or their representatives at Paadan Pol.
6. Shree Amba Mataji, Udaipur: The main Shakti Peeth temple of Udaipur; Shree Amba Mataji was built by Maharana Raj Singh I in 1665 CE, when he brought the idol from Aarasan (Gujarat). Worshipping is held daily including both the Navratras by Shree Eklingji Trust. Various Maharanas have visited this temple during their respective reigns. Maharana Jai Singh (r.1680-1698), one of the most ardent devotees of Amba Mata, has many verses and poetic hymns written and offered as prayers, to his credit.
7. Shree Asavra Mataji (Aavri Mata), Chittorgarh: Shree Asavara Mataji holds a prominent place among Mewar’s Shakti Peeths. Built before the 14th century, this temple is situated in Asavara village of Chittorgarh district. It bears a white stone idol of Asavara Mata, resembling the ‘Mahishasurmardini’ form. Earlier, the Maharanas would make a male goat sacrifice on special occasions. A pond dedicated to Lord Hanuman is situated in front of the temple in the eastern direction. Devotees seeking cure for paralysis and polio have been faithfully visiting this pond as the water is said to have miraculous curing power. All pujas, rituals, yagnas etc. are conducted as per the ancient Vedic rules and regulations.
8. Shree Dashmukha Kalika Mataji, Shree Eklingnath ji Campus: Kalika Mata temple is one of the sub temples in the premises of Shree Eklingnathji temple. The black stone idol of Kalika Mata has ten heads and ten arms. Being the first ‘Vidya’ among ten ‘Mahavidyas’, it is also called ‘Adyashakti’ according to the Tantrik concept. Shree Eklingji Trust sees to the upkeep of the temple and observes both the Navratras.
9. Shree Sheetla Mata Temple, Udaipur: This temple was built by Maharana Sangram Singh II in the year 1718-1719 near the haveli of Delwara. It is believed that the temple was constructed to pray for the well-being of Kunwar Jagat Singh (II) who had contracted chickenpox at a young age. Following the tradition, people visit this temple, till date when small children contract chickenpox. Hundreds of women offer prayers to Sheetla Mata on ‘Asthami’. Sheetla Mata is offered cold food cooked on the previous day and worshipped for the well-being of the family.
10. Shree Chauth Mataji, Udaipur: A shrine of Shree Chauth Mata is established in the western side of Zanana Mahal in the City Palace. There is evidence to suggest that the glass work of this temple was done during the reigns of Maharana Swarup Singh (r.1842-1861) and Maharana Sajjan Singh (r.1874-1884).
11. Shree Hast Mataji, Udaipur: This Hast Mataji temple built by Maharana Karan Singh (r.1620-1628) is also included in the prime Shakti Peeths of Mewar. It is situated on the Udaipur - Chittorgarh highway, behind Maharana Bhupal College. On the seventh day of each Navratra, the Maharana would worship at this temple and sacrifice of two male goats in the name of Mataji was done.
Chaitri Navratri
In earlier days, Shree Banmata Ji would reside at Kanwarpada Mahal for eight days and on Ram Navmi, the horses were worshipped and the final yagya would be organised. From Machla Magra 5 canons were fired as a salute for the festival. Then, the Maharanas would visit Shree Amba Mata temple in Udaipur for worship. After that, Maharana would also visit Shree Jagganathji temple.
Asadh Navratri
In earlier days, Banmata Ji along with Khadag ji (an old sword from the time of Maharana Hameer r. 1326-1364) would reside at Chandra Mahal for nine days for the Poojan and then, the final yagya would be organised. On all the days of Navratri; the Maharana would go for Poojan at different Goddesses’ temples along with Shree Jagganathraiji temple and on Ashtmi; Maharana would visit Shree Pala Ganeshji temple.
Ashwa- Gaj Poojan,
The autumn navratri (nine sacred days and nights) form one of the auspicious times in the Hindu calendar. On the ninth day of Navratri, which is a symbolic day of victory, arms and other symbols of the warrior are worshipped in northern India. In Mewar, famous for its cavalry charges, this day is also marked by the worship of war animals like the elephant and the horse. The worship of the horse, Ashwa Poojan, continues till date. The Maharana would first visit Shree Jagganathrai ji Temple, then in the auspicious time, with the Vedic chanting by the priests, the Maharana after the horses were bathed; took resolution of worshipping either 3, 5, 7, 9 or 11 horses and elephants, present in odd numbers. Horses would be wearing new clothes and were worshipped by putting a tilak. Then, they are fed moong, gram, jaggery, puri and jowar, after which the Maharana performs their aarti at the end. Before worshiping, it was also a practice to take the horses in the morning to bathe in the pond with procession. Presently, this tradition is performed by sprinkling water on the ingredients before worship. In the earlier tradition of Mewar, Maharana used to perform Gaj (Elephant) worship too with Vedic hymns after Ashwa Poojan sitting at Naginabadi. After that Maharana used to bid farewell to the present Sardar-Umrao (Nobles) and leave to carry out other religious works.
Maharana Bhupal Singh (r. 1930 - 1955) presiding over the Ashwa-Gaj Poojan at The Manek Chowk, 1939 or earlier
Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur presiding over the Ashwa Poojan at The Manek Chowk, 2011
Dusherra and Khejri Poojan
The celebrations of Vijaidashmi on Ashvin Shukla Dashmi have many royal Mewar traditions attached to it. One of them used to be Ahida ki Shikar, the first hunting expedition in the new hunting season after the rains; to go on important expeditions and to form a strong bond between the Maharana and the nobles, for which a feast used to be organized in the Palace. On this day, the Maharana would dress in white attire, wearing the Amar Shahi pag and worship Shree Pitambaraiji and Shree Nagnechia Mataji. After that, the Maharana would mount his horse from the Pagda ki Hatni in Manek Chowk and go with full Insignias of the state, with entourage of nobles via Hathi Pol for Khejri Poojan, in now days Madhuban, where there is still a vacant plot there. The place would be in a temporary enclosure with a gate installed at the front; the Maharana would touch the top of the gate symbolically with his sword and before entering the enclosure to commence the Khejri Poojan. Before India’s independence on this occasion 100 or 150 guns-salutes were given, but after the merger of Mewar state into the Union of India, the gun-salutes were reduced to 21. On this occasion worshiping of the arrows with recitation of Vedic hymns was performed and they were sent through messengers to the all gate of the City to announce that the Maharana as per the auspicious time is now ready to move in any four direction for pilgrimage or any other travel. Later the Bards would recite the traditional eulogy in presence of the Maharanas in the court for which they were given some reward. Before the court was dispersed, the Maharana would distribute betel bidas to nobles, indicating that they could now leave. The Maharana would mount his royal elephant and return to the Palace. On this occasion, a court was also held at Nahron ka Darikhana inside the Palace in Manek Chowk.
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Message from Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur
The House of Mewar represents the longest serving, unbroken custodianship in the world. It is a custodianship that transcends all boundaries of kingship, democracy and everything in between. The legacy of the House of Mewar has been passed on since Seventy Five generations and is still alive in our ceremonies, rituals and festivities. People, from near and far , become its stakeholders as they experience this 'living heritage'.
This heritage is not a sculpture carved in the past, al dente and voiceless, which time will inevitably grind down and turn to dust; it lives with us and as we live, evolves and thrives becoming even more burnished and beautiful with the passing of each day.
The City Palace Complex was and continues to be the site for all the rituals, spectacles and celebrations of the royal family. As the Seventy Sixth custodian of the House of Mewar I am honor bound to continue this legacy and discharge my duties to keep alive the Living Heritage of Mewar through the Eternal Mewar Festivals. The sparkle of the bright ceremony of Ashwa Poojan – 'A timeless gratitude to Equinity', the ritual burning of ignorance and sloth on Holika Dahan – 'A time honored Regal ceremony' and the celebration of the creation of the universe through the melodious and vibrant Kartik Poornima – 'Experience the Mystique of life' on a brilliant moonlit night are examples of a breathing and living Palace Complex.
I feel honored to extend an invitation and welcome all the people who share the same thought and hope that witnessing the Eternal Mewar Festivals will help you in becoming a part of this Living Heritage for it is something to be shared and cherished.
Arvind Singh Mewar
76th. Custodian House of Mewar
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Ashwa Poojan Ceremony
The autumn navratri (nine sacred days and nights) forms one of the auspicious times in the Hindu calendar. On the ninth day of Navratri, which is a symbolic day of victory, arms and other symbols of the warriors are worshipped in northern India. In Rajasthan, famous for its cavalry charges, this day is also marked by the worship of war animals like the elephant and the horse. The worship of the horse, Ashwa Poojan, continues till date. The horses that are part of the rituals are those belonging to the
'Marwari' breed, a distinct internationally recognized breed that is threatened with extinction. MMCF and Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur, has set up the Equine Institute Udaipur to maintain a viable population of this culturally important animal. They are fully bred and nurtured by Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation, Udaipur. The ceremony begins with the arrival of Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur, Chairman and Managing Trustee, MMCF in a 1905 vintage 'English Royal Landau' with a regal procession consisting of royal insignias such as two Chadiwalas carrying the long gold staff, two Gota - walas carrying the short gold batons symbolizing the authority of the state. Two men carrying the Fly - Whisk are positioned at the back of the Horse drawn carriage. At the high raised platform from where Shriji conducts the Ashwa Poojan Ceremony two men wearing Chapdas (Coat of Arms of the House of Mewar), two men carrying Mor Chal (Peacock feathers), one carrying the Adani (Velvet cloth fan) and one carrying the Meghadambar (Feather Fan). One man carrying the Karaniya (A cloth with an embroidered Sun Emblem on one side and the moon on the other) and another one carrying the Chattra (large umbrella) are also present. In the auspicious time, with the Vedic chanting by the priests, the Maharana after the horses were bathed; took resolution of worshipping either 3, 5, 7, 9 or 11 caparisoned horses, present in odd numbers. Horses would be wearing new clothes and were worshipped by putting a tilak. Then, they are fed moong, gram, jaggery, puri and jowar, after which the Maharana performs their Aarti at the end. Before worshiping, it was also a practice to take the horses in procession, in the morning to bathe in the pond. Presently, this tradition is performed by sprinkling water on the horses before worship. In the earlier tradition of Mewar, Maharana used to perform Gaj (Elephant) worship too with Vedic hymns after Ashwa Poojan sitting at Naginabadi darikhana. After that Maharana used to bid farewell to the Sardar-Umrao (Nobles) by offering a Betel Bida and give them leave to carry out other religious works.
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British Thoroughbreds at Udaipur
Immortalized by bards, ballads and balladeers, Chetak the horse ridden by Rana Pratap in the battle of Haldighati in A.D. 1576 is considered the epitome of the historical connect between Rajputs and their loyal horses. In 1909 the British Monarch King Edward VII with great political and cultural sagacity chose to send two thoroughbred horses to Maharana Fateh Singh as return gifts. This was in recognition of the gift made by Maharana Fateh Singh of select rifles from the Palace Armoury to his son, the Prince of Wales (Later King George V) for the latter's royal shoot in Nepal. The daily account of the life of the Maharana faithfully records the date of arrival of the state gifts as 1st September 1909. Named 'Red Lad' and 'Expert', these horses were accommodated at special stables built at the Jaleb Chowk, within The City Palace Complex. The horses are believed to have been personally chosen by the British Sovereign after their Sterling performance in several horse fairs in England and were thus found worthy of being sent as state gifts to a valued and much respected royal friend.
BRITISH THOROUGHBREDS AT UDAIPUR
Bourne & Shepherd, 'Expert', Thoroughbred Horse Expert' was distinguishable from 'Red Lad' the other horse by its four uniformly coloured feet.
Silver gelatin print, c. 1909, 101 x 132 mm, City Palace, Udaipur, A. No. 2008.04.0002 ' Image courtsey: Pictorial archives of Maharanas of Mewar, Udaipur.
BRITISH THOROUGHBREDS AT UDAIPUR
Bourne & Shepherd, 'Red Lad', Thoroughbred Horse 'Red Lad' was distinguishable from 'Expert' by the distinct white patch on his rear left foot.
Silver gelatin print, c. 1909, 100 x 133 mm, City Palace, Udaipur, A. No. 2008.04.0003 Image courtsey: Pictorial archives of Maharanas of Mewar, Udaipur.
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Ashwa Poojan 2016
Ashwa Poojan 2015
Ashwa Poojan 2014
Ashwa Poojan 2013 - A Timeless Gratitude to Equinity
The Manek Chowk, Mardana Mahal, The City Palace, Udaipur
Sunday, 13th October 2013Navratri is one of the most auspicious times in the Hindu calendar. The festival of Navratri, lasting for nine days and nights and hence known as Navratri, is dedicated to the worship in our Hindu mythology of the goddess Durga, the consort of Shiva. Navratri is celebrated in full vigour in Rajasthan, the land of Rajputs.
On the ninth day of Navratri, Rajputs everywhere recognize the various aspects on which their dependence and survival necessary lies. It is not surprising that one cannot separate a Rajput from his horse and the reliance and dependence of Rajput on horse can, in no way, be undermined. It is therefore appropriate that one day in the year be especially dedicated in recognition of the usefulness of the horse and its contribution to the survival of the Rajput community.
The horses participating in the poojan belong to an internationally recognized breed known as 'Marwari'. This name is reflective of their area of origin, which is now a part of the present state of Rajasthan. The salient characteristics of the breed are that they are extremely sure-footed on hard rocky terrain and are at equal ease in the sands of the desert. Besides these versatile features, they are good battle companions, as they possess the extraordinary ability to rejuvenate themselves by overnight rest and a simple sand bath.
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Ashwa Poojan 2012 - A Timeless Gratitude to Equinity
Ashwa Poojan Ceremony in 2011
at The Manek Chowk, The City Palace Complex, UdaipurYou see him from the corner of your eye; his taut muscles, shining coat and a nodding head instantly make you pause. Even as you walk towards him his neighing increases, creating a comfort level. That's what a horse does to you. There's an instant bonding which takes place with this magnificent animal. As far as Rajputs are concerned there is no better companion for them than their loyal and beloved horse. The relationship between the two can be dated back to many centuries in the past. Both have grown up respecting and loving each other more and more with time.
Rajputs have proven to be great warriors in history but one will never find a Rajput going into the battle field without his loyal horse by his side. 'Chetak' – the brave and mighty horse belonging to Maharana Pratap is an example of the relationship a Rajput shares with his horse. Paying respect and honor to the horse in recognition of his unfailing contribution to the survival of the Rajput race, one day in the year is dedicated to their worship which is how 'Ashwa Poojan' meaning 'worship of the Horse' came into existence. The Houseof Mewar having one of the bravest Rajput warriors in history have been celebrating 'Ashwa Poojan' from time immemorial without fail. The 76th and present custodian of the House of Mewar , Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur has been passed on this legacy from his ancestors and has taken it upon himself to continue this ceremony keeping alive the Living Heritage of The House of Mewar.
'Ashwa Poojan' is celebrated at The City Palace Complex each year on the last day of Navratri, nine most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar . The ceremony begins with the arrival of Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur in a 1905 vintage 'English Royal Landau Six-in-Hand' with a regal procession consisting of royal insignias such as two Chadiwalas carrying the long gold staff , two Gota-walas carrying the short gold batons symbolizing the authority of the state. Two men carrying the Fly- Whisk are positioned at the back of the Horse drawn carriage. At the high raised platform from where Shriji conducts the Ashwa Poojan ceremony two men wearing Chapdas (Coat of Arms of the House of Mewar), two men carrying Mor Chal (Peacock feathers), one carrying the Adani (Velvet cloth fan) and one carrying the Meghadambar (Feather Fan). One man carrying the Karaniya (A cloth with an embroidered Sun Emblem on one side and the moon on the other) and another one carrying the Chattra (large umbrella) are also present.
The Palace Band is positioned in front of the high raised platform from where Shriji worships the five royal horses namely Raj Tilak, Raj Roop, Ashwaraj, Raj Swaroop and Raj Mukut. These horses belong to the internationally recognized breed known as 'Marwari'. They are fully bred and nurtured at Shriji's personal Imperial Stud Farms at Shikarbadi, Udaipur.
The sacred ceremony is followed by a 'Nazrana' - a traditional ceremony where the noblemen of the city along with guests pay homage to the 76th Custodian of The House of Mewar.
An array of sumptuous refreshments organized by the HRH Group of Hotels awaits the guests at Khush Mahal bringing a memorable end to the magnificent and beautiful evening.
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The Regal Horse Jewellery
The Regal Horse Jewellery
1. 1. Kalingi - Ornament which stands up between the horse's ears
2. Phuldi - Silver necklace
3. Halra - Silver necklace
4. Mora - Worn on the face of the horse
5. Neveri - Silver ornament that is worn around the knee
6. Palli - Saddle cloth
7. Gajgao
8. Odani - Cloth that covers the saddle
9. Jean - Saddle
10. Dumchi - Leather piece covered in cloth and silver work that goes under the tail and is attached to the saddle
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Ranbanka
Skewbald; 15 Years; Geld
YOB: 1996
Raj Roop
Pie-Bald; 11 Years; Stallion
DOB: 14.02.2000
Sire - Sultan; Dam - Bani Than
Raj Swaroop
Bay; 8 Years; Stallion;
DOB: 19.12.2003
Sire - Sultan; Dam - Raj Kirti
Raj Mukut
Skewbald; 6 Years; Stallion
DOB: 08.03.2005
Sire - Sultan; Dam - Rajeshwari
Ashwa Raj
Dark Bay; 6 Years; Stallion
DOB: 27.07.2005
Sire - Sultan; Dam - Raj Kirti
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Unknown Photographer
Maharana Bhupal Singh at the Ashwa Poojan festivities
Silver gelatin print, c. 1950, 110 x 149 mm, City Palace, Udaipur, A. No. 2008.04.0004
Image courtsey: Pictorial archives of Maharanas of Mewar, UdaipurMaharana Bhupal Singh (r. 1930-1955) leading the ceremonial religious rites during the Ashwa Poojan festivities at The Manek Chowk, the City Palace Complex, Udaipur. The City Palace Museum at Udaipur also has large format paintings in the Mewar style which record the Maharana conducting the Ashwa Pooja.However by the mid twentieth century 'close-up' photography was steadily replacing the more traditional, detailed, large format court painting of similar
Rana Pratap and his horse Chetak during the battle of Haldighati in A.D. 1576.
Prince Bhupal Singh is seen riding Unknown Photographer. Platinum print.
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