Stunning Scenic Landscape and Venerable Temple Sight in Chhatrari
In the heart of the Himalayas, nestled between thick deodar forests and offering a breathtaking climatic view, lies the picturesque Gaddi village. This village, situated on the way to Bharmour and 48 km from Chamba, is primarily inhabited by the Gaddis, a community renowned for their traditional sheep-rearing activities and rich cultural heritage.
The village is most famously known for the highly sacred and famous temple of Shakti Devi, constructed by King Meru Verman in the 7th century AD. The temple, with its wooden roof, is a testament to ancient architectural brilliance and houses an attractive metallic idol of Devi, 54 inches in height, made out of panchola, an alloy of 5 metals.
The temple's interiors feature excellent wood carvings and amazing paintings, depicting gods and goddesses, revealing their lives. Another statue of Gugga is placed next to the statue of Shakti Mata in the temple.
The village revolves around the temple of Shakti Devi, with the local people deeply rooted in Hinduism and having a strong affinity for Shakti worship, the worship of feminine power or energy. During the Chahtrari fair, organized on the third day of the Mani Mahesh fair in September, local people perform mask dances, a common practice in many Hindu temples in the Himalayan region, believed to invoke divine blessings and protection from evil spirits.
On the Chahtrari fair day, the idol of Shakti Mata is bathed in holy water brought from Manimahesh Lake, adding a spiritual touch to the festivities. The paintings in the temple are highlighted using natural vegetable dyes, preserving the traditional art form.
While specific details about the temple's construction and the Chhatrari fair in relation to the Shakti Devi temple are not extensively documented, it is evident that the temple holds significant cultural and religious importance for the local community. The temple symbolizes the divine feminine, associated with the goddess Durga or Kali, who are revered for their strength and protection.
The Gaddi community's deep-rooted connection with Shakti worship is a reflection of the broader themes of Shakti worship and community celebration found in similar contexts. The mask dance, a central part of the cultural and religious expression of the community, is a common practice in many Hindu temples in the Himalayan region.
In conclusion, a visit to the Shakti Devi temple in Gaddi village offers a unique opportunity to witness traditional activities and local culture, immersing oneself in the rich heritage of the region.
1.Venturing into the Gaddi village, travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture, particularly the lifestyle centered around the highly sacred Shakti Devi temple, which reflects the community's deep-rooted connection with Shakti worship.
- Exploring the Himalayas, one can engage in cultural-travel by attending the Chahtrari fair in Gaddi village, experiencing mask dances and witnessing the local people's strong affinity for Shakti worship, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
