Bhilwara district of Rajasthan is called the gateway to Mewar, but this district is not only geographically, but also very rich in religious and social faith. This tradition of Bhilwara keeps alive, the historic temple of Santoshi Mata located in the police line complex, which is the only temple in the state where policemen themselves worship the Goddess. Just as the Tanot Mata Temple in Jaisalmer is a symbol of the faith of the Indian Army, similarly this temple in Bhilwara is the center of faith and reverence of Rajasthan Police.
Mewar Bhil Corp Battalion had built temple
This temple was built by Mewar Bhil Corp (MBC) Battalion between 1960 and 1970. When the battalion headquarters moved from Bhilwara to Udaipur, the responsibility of the temple was handed over to the local police department. Since then, this temple became an integral part of the religious faith and tradition of policemen.
Policemen are playing the responsibility of the priest
Policemen like head constable Jamna Lal Kharol in the temple have been duly worshiping Santoshi Mata for years. He says, “This is not an ordinary temple, but it is a source of our spiritual power. Whenever a tension or crisis comes, we bow here at the feet of the mother and they definitely fulfill our wishes.” There is not only aarti here, but Navratri, Shri Krishna Janmashtami and Annakoot Festival are also celebrated in a grand manner. The special thing is that all the development work of the temple is done with the donation and cooperation received by the police department, just as the army conducts the Tanot Mata temple.
Superintendent of Police also pray for guidance to mother
Bhilwara Superintendent of Police Adarsh Sidhu also has deep faith in this temple. He says, “Whenever the police department is at the point of a crisis or decision, we all go to the temple of Santoshi Mata and ask for guidance. Mother shows us the way and gives us firmness.” Aarti is held twice a day in the temple and two policemen have also been appointed for this, who also fulfill the responsibility of worship with their duty with full devotion.
Devotees become followers of security forces
The specialty of this temple is not only that it is operated by the police, but it is also that this temple is also open to the general public. Devotees coming from nearby districts arrive here to visit the mother. Many retired policemen who come here also come regularly to visit the mother. Retired policeman Ram Singh Panwar says, “I used to come to this temple during the police service and still come with reverence. I have been able to overcome many crises in life by the grace of mother.”
Amazing confluence of faith and discipline
This Santoshi Mata temple of Bhilwara is not just a religious place, but a wonderful confluence of faith and discipline. Where uniformed soldiers find a place of reverence amidst their difficult duties. This temple indicates that uniforms also have strict devotion in the heart.
Conservation of religious heritage in the new era
Today, when traditional institutions and beliefs are left behind in the race of modernity, Santoshi Mata Temple of Bhilwara is an inspirational example. It not only keeps religious faith alive, but also brings out the human and spiritual image of the police department.