India is a land of diverse cultures and religions, with a rich history and a plethora of temples and shrines that attract millions of tourists every year. Among these, the Mehandipur Balaji Temple stands out as a unique and mysterious place that draws thousands of devotees seeking blessings and solace from supernatural forces.
Located in the Dausa district of Rajasthan, the Mehandipur Balaji Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, also known as Balaji or Bajrangbali. The temple is renowned for its exorcism rituals and is believed to be a place of healing for people suffering from supernatural afflictions. In this article, we will explore the rituals, history, architecture, and significance of the Mehandipur Balaji Temple, as well as provide practical information for visitors planning a trip to this fascinating destination.
The Rituals of the Mehandipur Balaji Temple
One of the main reasons people visit the Mehandipur Balaji Temple is to participate in the exorcism rituals conducted by the temple priests. These rituals are believed to help people who are possessed by evil spirits or suffering from black magic. The temple has a special room called the ‘Bhoot Bhagao’ (meaning ‘ghost room’) where the exorcism rituals take place.
The rituals involve chanting of mantras, offering of sweets and flowers, and sprinkling of holy water on the affected person. The priests also use a whip made of neem leaves to drive away evil spirits. Devotees are encouraged to take part in these rituals, and some even come from far-off places to seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman.
Apart from the exorcism rituals, the temple also conducts other ceremonies like aarti, puja, and havan. The aarti is performed twice a day, in the morning and evening, and is a mesmerizing sight to behold. Devotees light lamps and sing hymns in praise of Lord Hanuman, creating an atmosphere of divinity and devotion.
The History of the Mehandipur Balaji Temple
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple has a rich history that dates back several centuries. According to legend, the temple was established by a saint named Sri Ganesh Puri Ji Maharaj, who had a vision of Lord Hanuman appearing in his dreams and directing him to build a temple in his honor.
The temple gained prominence in the 19th century when a farmer named Shri Gopi Ram Gupta discovered the idol of Lord Hanuman while plowing his field. The idol was installed in the temple, and soon, people started coming to the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings.
Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and expansions, and today, it is one of the most visited temples in Rajasthan. The temple is managed by a trust called Shri Mehandipur Balaji Mandir Prabandhak Committee, which is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the temple.
The Architecture of the Mehandipur Balaji Temple
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple is a stunning example of traditional Indian architecture. The temple is built in the ‘Nagara’ style of architecture, which is characterized by its tall and curvilinear spires. The temple has three main sanctums dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and Lord Vishnu.
The temple’s outer walls are decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures of various gods and goddesses. The main entrance of the temple is adorned with a large statue of Lord Hanuman, who is believed to be the presiding deity of the temple.
The temple’s interior is equally impressive, with ornate carvings and paintings on the walls and ceilings. The sanctums are decorated with beautiful idols of the deities, and the temple’s priests perform various rituals throughout the day.
How to Reach Mehandipur Balaji Temple
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple is located in the Dausa district of Rajasthan and is well-connected to various parts of the state and the country. The closest airport to the temple is the Jaipur International Airport, which is about 100 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
The nearest railway station to the temple is in Bandikui, which is about 40 km away. The station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. From the railway station, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach the temple.
If you are traveling by road, the temple is about 290 km from Delhi and can be reached via NH48. Visitors can also take a bus from Delhi or Jaipur to reach the temple.
Why Mehandipur Balaji is Famous
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple is famous for its unique rituals and beliefs that are meant to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. The temple is believed to be a place of spiritual healing and enlightenment, and many people from all over the country come to seek blessings and remedies for their problems.
One of the most famous rituals at the temple is the Bhut Vidya, which is performed to exorcise evil spirits. The ritual is said to be quite intense and can last for several hours. Devotees who are possessed by evil spirits come to the temple to seek help and are treated with special rituals and mantras.
The temple is also known for its Mangla Gauri well, which is said to have healing properties. Devotees take a bath in the water from the well to purify their body and mind and seek blessings from the deity.
Another unique aspect of the temple is the presence of langurs, who are considered to be the protectors of the temple. These langurs are treated with great respect and are believed to be the servants of Lord Hanuman.
Things You Need to Keep in Mind In Mehandipur Balaji Temple
If you are planning a visit to the Mehandipur Balaji Temple, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. However, there are certain rules and regulations that visitors must follow when visiting the temple. The temple is known for its unique rituals and beliefs, and it is important to respect the traditions and customs of the temple.
1. First and foremost, visitors are not allowed to consume non-vegetarian food or onions before entering the temple. It is believed that non-vegetarian food and onions attract negative energy and can disrupt the purity of the temple.
2. When leaving the temple, don’t turn back to have a glimpse of the place again: It is believed that when leaving the temple, one should not turn back and have a glimpse of the place again as it can invite negative energies. Therefore, visitors are advised to walk away without looking back once they exit the temple premises.
3. Don’t carry food items (Prasad or bhog) back with you while leaving the temple: Visitors are not allowed to carry any food items, including Prasad or bhog, outside the temple premises. It is said that the prasad offered at the temple absorbs these negative energies, and taking it back home can be harmful to one’s health and well-being. Many devotees have reported experiencing strange phenomena after bringing prasad from the temple to their homes. Some have reported seeing unexplained shadows or feeling a presence in their homes. Others have reported feeling unwell or experiencing sudden bouts of bad luck. As a result, it is strongly advised not to bring prasad from the Mehandipur Balaji Temple to one’s home.
4. Strictly avoid and say NO to food pushers.
5. Before you leave the village, empty all the food packets and bottles, and throw them in the dustbins.
6. Don’t talk or touch strangers inside the temple premises: Visitors are advised not to engage in conversation or touch strangers inside the temple premises.
7. Dress Code: Visitors are advised to dress appropriately when visiting the temple. It is considered respectful to wear traditional Indian attire and to cover your head before entering the temple. For women, it is recommended to carry a dupatta or headscarf to cover their heads as a sign of respect for the deity.
8. Photography: Photography is not allowed inside the temple, and it is considered disrespectful to take photographs. Visitors are also advised not to touch the langurs or feed them, as it can be dangerous.
9. Crowded: The temple is known to be quite crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Visitors should be prepared for long queues and wait times.
10. Mobile Phones: Visitors are advised to switch off their mobile phones before entering the temple. The use of mobile phones is considered disrespectful and can disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
Best Time to Visit Shri Mehandipur Balaji Temple
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant and comfortable, making it an ideal time to explore the temple.
During the summer months, from March to June, the weather can be quite hot and uncomfortable, making it difficult to explore the temple. The monsoon season, from July to September, can also be a challenging time to visit, as the temple is prone to heavy rains and flooding.
The winter months are also a great time to witness some of the most important festivals and events at the temple. The Hanuman Jayanti festival, which is celebrated in April, is a popular event at the temple, with thousands of devotees coming to seek blessings from Lord Hanuman.
Mehandipur Balaji Temple Timings
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day of the week. However, there are specific timings for the different rituals and ceremonies that take place at the temple. Visitors are advised to check the temple timings before planning their visit.
Mangla Aarti: This is the first prayer of the day, and it takes place at 5:30 AM.
Bhog Aarti: This is the prayer that is offered to the deity at 12:00 PM.
Sandhya Aarti: This is the evening prayer that takes place at 6:30 PM.
Shayan Aarti: This is the last prayer of the day, which takes place at 9:00 PM.
Apart from these timings, there are also specific timings for the different rituals and ceremonies that take place at the temple. Visitors are advised to check with the temple authorities for more information about the timings of these events.
In conclusion, Mehandipur Balaji Temple is a place of great spiritual significance for people of all walks of life. Despite being shrouded in mystery and myth, Mehandipur Balaji Temple continues to attract thousands of devotees every year who seek blessings and solace from the divine powers believed to reside within its walls. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the enduring importance of cultural heritage in modern times.
FAQ’S
What are the rules of Mehandipur Balaji?
The rules of Mehandipur Balaji include bathing before entry, modest clothing, no photography or phones, no touching, silence during exorcisms, no offerings or eating, no alcohol or non-veg food, and no entry for menstruating women.
What is Mehandipur Balaji famous for?
Mehandipur Balaji is famous for its mysterious and eerie aura, exorcism practices, and spiritual healing rituals believed to cure mental and physical illnesses, and remove evil spirits.
Why is Balaji’s face covered?
Balaji’s face is covered as part of a local belief that looking directly into his eyes can lead to a curse or spell. It is also done to protect the idol from any damage or harm.
What is the mystery of Balaji temple?
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple is shrouded in mystery due to its unique rituals, exorcism practices, and unexplained happenings. Many visitors report feeling a strange and eerie aura, adding to the temple’s mystique.
What is the history of Mehandipur Balaji Temple?
The Mehandipur Balaji Temple has a rich history that dates back several centuries. Legend has it that it was established by Sri Ganesh Puri Ji Maharaj, who had a vision of Lord Hanuman. The temple gained prominence in the 19th century when a farmer discovered the idol of Lord Hanuman while plowing his field.