Shri Kalyan Temple, representing the Vaishnavite cult, is located in Diggi, a town in Malpura thesil in Tonk district in Rajasthan. It was built under the patronage of King Digva almost 5600 years ago.
Legend of Shri Kalyan Temple
As per a legendary tale once, King Digva was cursed by an apsara or nymph in the court of Lord Indra that afflicted him with leprosy. The apsara spent 12 years on earth during which the king had once offended her. Hence, due to her wrath the king suffered pain and became a leper. Lord Indra was satisfied and pleased upon the completion of the king`s penance. The later then heard a divine voice that informed him that a stone image would be found at the seashore, installing which, the king would be free from leprosy. The instructions were followed. The king found the image of Indra and installed it in the shrine, following which he was completely cured of his disease.
Diety of Shri Kalyan Temple
Shri Kalyan Temple of the Vaishnava Sampradaya is dedicated to Shri Kalyan Ji, also revered as Lord Vishnu. This ancient temple, withstanding the ravages of time, narrates tales of antiquity. The architectural features and its decorative details of the temple reflect the religious sentiments and traditions of the bygone eras. The shikhara or the pinnacle of the shrine is supported by sixteen ornate pillars, magnificently carved and engraved with figurines. The garbhagriha or the sanctum sanctorum of the temple provided with a circumambulation passage around it, houses the idol of the lord. The sanctum sanctorum along with the Jagmohana has been completely developed of marble thus, generating a sophisticated look. Adjoining the temple is another shrine dedicated to Laxmi Narayan Ji. The entrance gate of the temple has been adorned with striking sculptural work, figures and statuettes.
The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Vishnu, has been enshrined in the form of Shri Kalyan Ji. The idol, completely white in colour, possesses four hands. The word Kalyan means compassion and salvation from miseries. Thus, it is believed by the devotees that if worshipped with love and devotion, the Lord fulfils their desires and relieves them from all miseries.
Festivals of Shri Kalyan Temple
Shri Kalyan Temple celebrates several fairs and festivals with great zeal and gusto. Vaishakhi Poornima, Kartika Poornima, Jal Jhoolani Ekadashi, Patotsava, Hariyali Amawas, Annakuta are some of the important festivals celebrated by the temple authorities. Devotees from far off destinations visit the temple during the months of Shravan and Bhadrapada. Pilgrimage to the temple is organized in flocks with the devotees dancing, singing and praising the Lord.