Bharat Mata Mandir, located in the spiritual city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, stands as a unique monument in the landscape of Indian temples. Unlike traditional shrines, which are dedicated to gods and goddesses, this temple is a tribute to Mother India (Bharat Mata) and embodies the secular ethos of the country.
The history of Bharat Mata Mandir dates back to before India's independence. It was inaugurated on October 25, 1936, by none other than Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Indian nation. The temple was constructed under the vision of Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, a nationalist leader, and was designed by Durga Prasad Khatri, epitomizing national unity and integrity.
The main attraction inside the temple is a marble relief map of undivided India, depicting the mountains, plains, and oceans to scale. The map is said to be perfectly accurate and is a representation of India as a mother, nurturing its inhabitants without distinctions of race, religion, and culture.
Varanasi, being one of the oldest living cities in the world, has always been a significant tourist destination attracting pilgrims and travelers globally. The Bharat Mata Mandir has been a part of Varanasi’s tourism portfolio, drawing not only pilgrims but also history enthusiasts, patriots, and those interested in the geographical diversity of India.
The temple is housed within the campus of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, a historical university, thus merging the fervor of both education and patriotism. Visiting Bharat Mata Mandir provides a unique kind of visitation experience different from that of the many religious sites in Varanasi.
In recent years, Varanasi has been at the forefront of developing its tourism infrastructure, making it more accessible and tourist-friendly. The introduction of cleaner ghats, the Ganga Aarti, improved connectivity, and the upgrade of the airport has increased the city's allure.
The Government of India’s focus on promoting Varanasi as a center for cultural and heritage tourism through schemes like the Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) has amplified the popularity of Bharat Mata Mandir among the historical and cultural circuits.
Furthermore, sustainable tourism is becoming a notable trend. Efforts are being made to preserve the city's heritage while ensuring that the impact of tourism does not disrupt the local ecosystem. Bharat Mata Mandir plays a part in this by educating visitors about the value of unity and the cultural integration of India.
For tourists planning to visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, it is open all days of the week. The serene and secular atmosphere of the temple offers a respite from the bustling city life and the crowded religious spots of Varanasi.
In conclusion, Bharat Mata Mandir is not just a tourist destination but a symbol of national pride and integrity, reflecting India’s rich history and cultural depth. It continues to be a beacon for those exploring the roots of India’s freedom struggle and the vibrant, diverse identity of its people.
