Located near Padra Taluka, Ranu village is famous for its Tulja Mataji Temple which is considered to be 700 years old. Lacs of people visit here during the Navratri festival to seek blessings.
Finding the idol:
Mahant Kavindragiri, the caretaker of temple says that 700 years ago Brahmshree Vishwambhar Giriji Maharaj came to Ranu village to worshipping Mataji & to serve the people. It is said that the idol housed in the temple was found from a lake called Mansarovar. On that day they lit a ‘diya'(lamp) which has been kept lit till now.
During Navratri days, the idol of Tulja Mataji is decorated with precious diamonds & rare jewelry given by Maharaja Malharrao Gaekwad, 150 years ago.
Malharrao and Mataji:
It is said that these precious jewels were offered by Malharrao after his wish was granted by the Mataji. He had wished to be released from the prison, where he was put by the Britishers. He had pledged that if he was released he would offer the precious jewels. Subsequently, he was released and offered jewelry like a necklace, diamond-studded crown, ear-rings, kankawati, bracelets, zanzar(anklets).
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People from Gujarat, Maharashtra,Orissa, Kerala & from abroad come here to seek blessings from Mataji. During the 8th day of Aaso Navratri & Chaitra Navratri, a Havan is performed here for the peace & prosperity of people & earth.
Mata rani bless us. Jai Mata di
Divine place!