Kashtbhanjandev Temple, Salangpur Hanumanji Temple

Gujarat, Botad, Gandhinagar

In the village of Sarangpur, stand the temple Lord Hanuman, where he is celebrated as Kashtabhanjan or the slayer of all sorrows. The image of the Lord in his temple is considered so powerful that a mere look will drive away the evil spirits from the people affected by them. Those with mental disorders are believed to find solace after their visit to this shrine. This temple is among the prominent ones built by the followers of Swaminarayan Sampraday. The idol of Hanuman was installed by Sadguru Gopalanand Swami. In 1899, Kothari Gordhandas of Vadtal appointed Shastri Yagnapurushdas to manage the affairs of the shrine. During his tenure, Shastri renovated the structure, built the adjacent bungalow, and acquired more land for the complex.

Legend

The Hanuman temple was built by the followers of Swaminarayan Sampraday. According to author Raymond Williams, when Sadguru Gopalanand Swami installed the idol of Hanuman, he touched it with a rod and the idol came alive and moved. This legend has become a source for the healing ritual performed at this temple where the devotees are touched with the same rod.

Architecture

The temple exterior is built in tiers of dome structures with golden tops. There are carvings on the exterior walls. The temple is big and spacious. The idol of Hanuman here is a stout figure with a handlebar moustache, crushing a female demon under his foot and baring his teeth. The back ground for the idol is sculpted trees with fruit bearing monkeys. The 'gadha', which is the weapon of the Lord is placed in from of the idol. He is adorned with a crown and beautiful jewellery as well as flower garlands.

Picture Courtesy: www.panoramio.com

Darsan Info

Temple timings - 6.00 AM to 12.00 PM and from 3.00 PM to 9.00 PM
There is a special Shangar Aarti that is performed on every Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7.00 AM.

Access to female devotees might be restricted.
Saturday is the designated day for a special rituals for those affected by mental illness, stress and other disorders.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative clothing

Famous Festival

April - Hanuman Jayanti Mahotsav

Culture

Sarangpur, which translates to place of peacocks, is famous for its Swaminarayan temple. Holi is celebrated with lots of festivities here. The village has a modest population of around 3000. There is a great influence of Swaminarayan Sampraday (sect) and the culture resonates the vedic and puritic hindu ideologies, especially Vaishnava tradition. One great characteristics of the sect is its regard for humans from all castes. Ascetism is the most important and recognizable facet of the culture of this sect.