The worship of these goddesses is an integral part of the Banjara community’s culture and traditions. The temples dedicated to these goddesses are located in different parts of India and Pakistan, and each temple has its own history and significance.
The Seven Bhavani Goddesses:
2. Kankali Bhavani is primarily worshipped in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. She is the goddess of strength and protection. The word “Kankali” means someone who is fierce and powerful. She is often depicted holding a trident and a human head, symbolizing her power over life and death. The Kankali Bhavani temple is located in the city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat and is believed to have been built during the 11th century.
4. Meraama Bhavani is primarily worshipped in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka. She is the goddess of fertility and childbirth and is often depicted with a child in her arms and a trident in her hand, symbolizing her power over life and death. The Meraama Bhavani is also known as Mariamma Bhavani and the temple is located in the town of Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh and is believed to have been built during the 14th century by the Vijayanagara Empire. The goddess is worshiped as the goddess of fertility and childbirth.
5. Tulja Bhavani is goddess of knowledge and wisdom. Tulja Bhavani is worshiped mostly in the state of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Telangana. The word “Tulja” means “one who provides balance.” She is often depicted holding a book and a lotus flower, symbolizing her knowledge and purity. The Tulja Bhavani temple is located in the village of Tuljapur in Maharashtra and is considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple is believed to have been built during the 12th century, and the goddess is worshiped as the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
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6. Sheetla Bhavani is goddess of health and well-being. Sheetla Bhavani is primarily worshiped in the states of Haryana, Karnataka, Andra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. She is often depicted with a broom and a water pot, symbolizing cleanliness and purity. The Sheetla Bhavani temple is located in the city of Gurgaon in Haryana and is believed to have been built during the 18th century. The goddess is worshiped as the goddess of health and well-being.
7. Dhavalagar Bhavani is goddess of purity and holiness. Dhavalagar Bhavani is worshiped mostly in the state of Gujarat. The word “Dhavalagar” means “one who resides in a white castle.” She is often depicted in white clothing and with a white umbrella, symbolizing purity and holiness. The Dhavalagar Bhavani temple is located in the town of Dharwad in Karnataka and is believed to have been built during the 17th century. The goddess is worshiped as the goddess of purity and holiness.
Each of these goddesses has a specific role and is associated with certain attributes and symbolism. They are worshipped during important events such as weddings, births, and festivals, and devotees offer prayers and offerings to seek their blessings. The Banjara community celebrates various festivals and performs different rituals to honor these goddesses. Some of the major festivals celebrated by the Banjara community include Teej, Kadav, Sheetla, Navaratri, Holi, Diwali, and Dussehra. During these festivals, devotees offer prayers, perform puja, and make offerings to the goddesses. The rituals and customs associated with these festivals may vary depending on the region and community.
Overall, the worship of the seven Bhavani goddesses is an important part of the Banjara community’s culture and traditions, and the temples dedicated to these goddesses serve as centers of spiritual and cultural significance.