Chotila
Chotila is a Hindu temple town located in the Surendranagar district of Gujarat, India, near Rajkot. Once known as Chotgadh, it was acquired by the Kathis in 1566 CE and is now a significant religious and administrative center. The town is famed for the Chamunda temple atop Chotila hill, which is reached by climbing 920 steps.
Key Facts
- ›Chotila was historically known as Chotgadh.
- ›The town was acquired by the Kathis in 1566 CE.
- ›The Chamunda temple is situated atop Chotila hill, which is 1173 feet high.
- ›Devotees reach the Chamunda temple by climbing 920 steps.
- ›The temple is accessible to devotees from 5 am to 8:00 pm.
- ›Jhaverchand Meghani, a prominent literary figure, was born in Chotila.
Chamunda
Religious Pilgrimage Site, Historical Holding of the Kathis
Kathi
Nag Khachar, Mulu Khachar, Krupa Khachar, Devayat Khachar, Samat Khachar
About Chotila
Chotila is a significant Hindu temple town and the headquarters of the Chotila Taluka in the Surendranagar district of Gujarat, India. Located near the city of Rajkot, it is an important religious and administrative center with historical roots.
History and Administration
Historically known as Chotgadh, the area was originally a holding of the Sodha Parmars. It was acquired by the Kathis in 1566 CE and became one of their principal seats. Prominent figures from the Kathi community associated with the town's history include Nag Khachar, Mulu Khachar, Krupa Khachar, Devayat Khachar, and Samat Khachar. The town is currently administered by the Nagarpalika.
Places of Interest
The most prominent landmark in Chotila is the Chamunda temple, situated atop the Chamotila hill. This hill rises to a height of 1173 feet, and the temple is reached by ascending 920 steps. The temple is open to devotees daily from 5 am to 8:00 pm.
Cultural Significance
Chotila holds cultural importance as the birthplace of the renowned Gujarati literary figure Jhaverchand Meghani. In recognition of his contributions, the local government college has been named Raashtreeya Shaayar Zaverchand Meghani College.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chotila historically known as?
Chotila was known as Chotgadh in ancient times. This historical name reflects its past as a fortified settlement.
When did the Kathis acquire Chotila?
The Kathis acquired Chotila in 1566 CE. It became one of their principal seats after being seized from the Sodha Parmars.
What is the main religious attraction in Chotila?
The main attraction is the temple of Chamunda, located atop the Chamotila hill. The hill stands at a height of 1173 feet.
How do devotees access the Chamunda temple?
Access to the Chamunda temple is gained by climbing 920 steps up Chotila hill. The temple is open for worshipers daily.
What are the timings for visiting the Chamunda temple?
The temple is open for devotees from 5 am to 8:00 pm. This allows ample time for pilgrims to visit and offer prayers.
Is Chotila associated with any famous literary figures?
Yes, Chotila is the birthplace of the prominent literary figure Jhaverchand Meghani. The local government college has been named in his honor.
Related Temples (Hindu)
Trilokpur Temple
The Trilokpur Temple complex in Himachal Pradesh, India, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Durga in her form as Mahamaya Bala Sundri. Legend states its origin in 1570 CE when a sacred stone representing the goddess appeared in a salt bag, leading to the construction of the main temple. The site is known for its amalgam of Indo-Persian architectural styles and attracts millions of devotees annually.
Hari Parbat
Hari Parbat is a significant hill overlooking Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India, renowned for its historical fort and religious sites. It features a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Sharika (Parvati), identified with the sacred pebble of local mythology, alongside Muslim shrines and Sikh Gurdwaras.
Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple
The Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is a 16th-century rock-cut temple in Bengaluru, India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is renowned for its unique architectural planning that allows sunlight to illuminate the lingam during specific times of the year, drawing large numbers of devotees.