10/07/2015
Hey guys! Next Tourist spot in our list is the very famous MATHARDEV BABA TEMPLE SARNI
ABOUT: One of the most conspicuous sites of Sarni is a Shiva temple overlooking the town from Mathardev peak, which is the highest point, approximately 3,500 ft (1,100 m) (from sea level), among neighbouring hills of Satpura ranges. The peak as well as the temple are named after a legendary tribal chief named Mathardev. The legendary chief commands strong following among the local and neighboring population.
The path to the peak is a steep trek climbing two hills. It takes approximately 35–40 minutes of continuous climb at walking pace to reach the top.
The hilltop also provides a view of the surrounding mountain ranges, Satpura dam and a bird's eye view of the town below.As per the local legend, a saint and tribal chief with name Mathardev baba frequented the peak and performed worship rituals to god Shiva. His method of worship was to use butter milk (locally known as matha in Hindi) instead of milk for the ceremony, and hence he came to be known as Mathardev. It is believed that a lion became worshiper of Mathardev and visited the shrine on hill top everyday during the ceremony. The tribal chief commanded a wide following during his lifetime and his followers believed that he possessed magical powers. an annual week-long fair on the festival of Makar Sankranti is organised in the month of January. The fair was first started in 1978 by a group of followers of Mathardev who started a project to create a shrine in order to organize and institutionalize the visitors. Since then it has become an annual affair.The fair is organised by the temple committee (Mathardev mela samiti) with the help of Municipal Corporation of Sarni. The fair is a treat to senses with its beautiful sights, sounds and smells. Traders across the region come to the fair to sell a multitude of goods including religious items, artefacts, ornaments, clothes, toys, simple household goods, etc. Several acrobats, snake charmers, musicians and other artists attract crowd by displaying their talents.
HOW TO REACH: Road transport is the most convenient means to reach Sarni from BETUL city or Capital Bhopal.A nearby railway station of Ghoradongri is situated at a distance of 18 km. Once reached sarni its an easy trip to the temple with the help of localites of sarni.
Enjoy your visit to the city blessed by LORD SHIVA & TRIBAL CHIEF MATHARDEV BABA :)