History of Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust (Rajpara, Bhavnagar – Gujarat)
1. Origins and Early Devotion
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The roots of Khodiyar Mata worship go back to the 13th century, during the reign of Maharaja Ranji Gohil in the Vana kingdom.
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Khodiyar Mata was worshipped as a Lokdevi (a people’s goddess) and protector of the Gohil dynasty.
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Maharaja Wakhatsinhji later established the first modest shrine dedicated to Khodiyar Mata at Rajpara, near Bhavnagar.
2. Temple Development
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The shrine remained a sacred site of pilgrimage until Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Gohil, a deeply devoted ruler, undertook a major expansion.
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He developed the shrine into the grand temple that stands today. To support the influx of devotees, he:
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Built a proper access road.
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Established a railway station near the temple (Khodiyar Mandir Station).
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Constructed a hospital and a wildlife lake in the Bhal region.
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Installed a water-pumping system for the temple and surrounding area.
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3. Formation of the Trust
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In 1953, Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji formally established the Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust.
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The goal was to ensure the sustainable management, preservation, and development of the temple.
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The Trust also upholds the traditions, supports pilgrims, and maintains the temple's cultural significance.
4. Current Management
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The Trust remains under the stewardship of the Gohil royal family.
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Key figures in its present leadership include:
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H.H. Maharaja Saheb Vijayrajsinghji Gohil
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H.H. Maharani Samyukta Kumari Gohil
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Yuvrajsaheb Jaiveerraj Singh Gohil
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Maharajkumari Brijeshwari Kumari Gohil
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Shri Punitaba Raghvendrasinh Gohil
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🪔 Summary Timeline
| Period | Contribution |
|---|---|
| 13th Century | Worship of Khodiyar Mata begins under Maharaja Ranji Gohil |
| Wakhatsinhji Era | Establishment of the original shrine at Rajpara |
| Krishnakumarsinhji Era | Temple expanded, infrastructure developed |
| 1953 | Formal establishment of Shri Khodiyar Mandir Trust |
| Present Day | Gohil family continues management and development |
