Nestled amidst the picturesque hills of the enchanting village of Shiroda, the temple of Shri Kamakshi stands majestically, a testament to its late 16th-century origins. As visitors enter the village, they are greeted by the grandeur of the Mahadwar, the temple gate, which leads them to the revered Kamakshi temple complex, known among locals as ‘Sthal’ or simply ‘Thal.’ As one passes through the Mahadwar and descends the stairs, the temple reveals its splendor with an impressive octagonal, two-storied tower is crowned with a golden Kalash, shining brilliantly at its peak, a sight that captivates all who behold it.
Upon stepping inside the temple, one is warmly welcomed by the spacious Sabha Mandap, a traditional open entrance hall that emanates a serene atmosphere for devotees. In front of the temple are the tall Deepasthambh, a lamp tower, and a sacred water tank, while the square-shaped chowk, known as Gan, serves as a sacred space for conducting the Prasad ritual, further enriching the spiritual ambiance. The heart of the temple houses the Gabhara, the Sanctum Sanctorum, where the divine form of Shri Kamakshi is seen in all its resplendent glory.
The divine presence of Shri Kamakshi is accompanied by Kshetrapals, the affiliated protector deities, including Shri Vetal and Shri Kalbhairav. Additionally, the temple’s precinct houses shrines dedicated to Shri Rayeshwar or Lord Shiva, Shri Lakshminarayana or Lord Vishnu with his consort, Goddess Laxmi, and Shri Shantadurga, making it a divine abode for multiple deities.
The temple comes alive during special occasions when the palanquin processions are held. On every Amavasya or New Moon Day, the idol of Shri Kamakshi and Shree Laxmi Narayan are carried around the temple premises, attracting thousands of devotees who come for darshan. The festivities continue with the palanquin processions of Shri Rayeshwar on Chaturdashi or pre-New Moon Day, and that of Shri Shantadurga on Panchami or the fifth day after the New Moon Day.
Adding to the grandeur, the temple hosts annual celebrations during the Navratri/Dussehra period and the Jatra in spring, drawing people from far and wide to partake in the joyous events. One of the highlights is the Divja procession during the Jatra, where numerous married women walk around the temple in the evening, carrying clay lamps, creating a breathtaking sight.
The temple of Shri Kamakshi is not just a religious destination but a place where spirituality and tradition blend seamlessly with the beauty of nature, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and a sense of peace and devotion.
