Bahuchar Mata Temple Becharaji

Becharaji or Bahucharaji Temple, is located in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas sites where the right hand is Bahu of Maa Devi Sati fell. Construction of the old temple began in 1152 A.D., under the reign of King Sankhal Raj. This place worships Maa Bahucharaji as Goddess Bala Tripura Sundari. Navratri is an important festival for this temple. For more information, check our latest blog on Bhecharaji Temple timing and more.

History of Bahucharaji Mataji Temple

According to legend, Bahuchara Mata was a Charan woman. She and her sisters were once attacked by a bandit named Bapiya. Instead of giving up, she cut off her breasts and sacrificed herself. She cursed Bapiya to become impotent. The curse would end only if he worshipped her as a woman. This story connects Bahuchara Mata with gender change and the hijra community. The first shrine was built in 1152 CE by King Sankhal Raj. Later, the Maratha rulers and Gaekwad kings made many changes and additions during the 18th and 19th centuries. The temple has three shrines. The Adyasthan is the original shrine under a sacred tree. The Madhyasthan is the middle shrine. 

Architecture of Bahucharaji Mata Temple

The Bahuchar Mata Temple becharaji features complex carvings on its walls and pillars that follow Vastu Shastra, a Hindu architectural tradition. During fertility-related ceremonies, infant tonsure processes (babri), and wishes for sons or sickness cures, devotees from all walks of life come for blessings. Regular respect is paid by the Hijra community as a sign of spiritual awareness and affiliation as well as tradition.

Events & Festivals
The main celebration is Navratri, which attracts thousands of pilgrims for nine nights of rituals, dance, and goddess offerings.  Fairs and rituals where couples pray for children and devotees seek protection or healing are among the other yearly activities.

Impact on Society and Culture
Social inclusion is positively supported by Bahuchar Mata Temple, particularly for socially excluded individuals like the hijras. The temple is also a symbol of social cooperation since, as a show of unity, ceremonies from all religions are happily accepted within the temple compound during Moharram.

Significance of The Bahuchara ji Temple For The Hijra Community

For the Indian hijra (transgender) community, the Bahuchar Mata Temple in Becharaji is important. They find power, respect, and identity in this holy location.

• Spiritual Patronage : Hijras are favoured by Bahuchar Mata. She provides them with protection, blessings, and a sense of community.
• Mythological Connection : Legend has it that Bahuchar Mata made a bandit impotent by insulting him. Only if he worshipped her as a woman would the curse be removed. In this tale, gender transition is associated with the goddess. As a result, hijras frequently visit the shrine and occasionally dress as women while they are there.
• Rituals and Blessings : Here, Hijras seek favours, direction, and spiritual strength. They also think they have the ability to bless or curse because of the goddess. Babies and newlyweds are blessed in the temple. In order to receive special blessings in the temple, some men also dress as ladies.
• Social Inclusion : The shrine is famous for its respectful welcome of hijras. They get respect and social acceptance as a result. In addition to being a place of worship, it also represents empowerment and hope for individuals who are frequently oppressed.

Facilities at Bahucharaji Temple

• The temple is clean and spacious.
• Drinking water and shaded areas are available.
• Parking is easy and nearby.
• Simple vegetarian Gujarati food is served in the Bhojanalay.
• Dharamshalas and hotels are available for stay.
• Prasad is given after darshan or at special counters.
• It includes ladoos, peda, coconuts and fruits.
• During Navratri, special prasad is offered in large amounts.

Rules and Etiquette

• Wear modest clothes. Traditional Indian dress is best.
• Do not take photos if not allowed. Stay quiet inside.
• Drinking or smoking is not allowed in the temple.
• Stand in the darshan line. Do not push or shout.

How to Reach Bahuchar Mata Temple Becharaji

The temple can be easily reached by taking the various modes 

By Road

You can reach Bahuchar Mata Temple Becharaji from Mehsana (35 km) and Modhera (25 km). 

By Rail

Mehsana is the nearest railway station, 35 km from Bahuchar Mata Temple Becharaji. Also, this railhead is connected to major nearby cities.

By Air

Sardar Vallabhbhai Airport is the nearest port to Bahuchar Mata Temple Becharaji at 103 km. You can easily take any public or private transportation to reach the temple.

Best Time to Visit Shree Bahuchar Mataji Temple

Bahuchar Mata Temple is a famous pilgrimage place in Mehsana where the weather is hot during the summer, so the winter season will be perfect for visiting from October to November.