Shri Vardayini Mata temple in Rupal, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Vardayini Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is dedicated to Vardayini Mata, a revered form of the Divine Mother, embodying the aspect of Brahmacharini, the second form of the Navadurga.
The temple’s history is deeply rooted in ancient traditions, with legends tracing back to the time of the Pandavas during the Mahabharata.
The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Vardayini Mata, adorned with traditional attire and ornaments.
Long ago, the area now called Rupal was known as Raupyapuri.
During their exile, the Pandavas passed through Raupyapuri. One night, Maa Vardayini, a powerful form of Shakti, appeared in a dream to Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava. She blessed them and told them to hide their weapons and sacred items inside a Varkhado tree, where they would be safe during their secret exile (Agyatavasa).
The Pandavas worshipped her passionately and promised to return after their victory. The Goddess also gave Arjuna a special divine arrow, which helped him win the battle of the Mahabharata.
Before leaving the village, the Pandavas established a shrine in her honor, placing sacred stones and creating a symbolic seat (pindi) for the Goddess. They pledged to return and offer a special chariot procession (Palli Yatra) as gratitude when their time of hardship ended.
Palli Yatra is celebrated on the ninth day of Navratri. As per the Goddess’s divine instruction, a wooden chariot (Palli) was to be made from the Khijada tree, a symbol of purity and strength. Five sacred flames (called Akhanda Jyot) were to be lit in pots and placed on the chariot, and the villagers were to offer ghee as a sign of devotion.
This tradition was first fulfilled after the Pandavas regained their kingdom. They returned to Rupal and led the first Palli Yatra, walking barefoot and pouring ghee as an offering along the route. The Goddess blessed the land with prosperity, protection from diseases, and spiritual peace.
