Spiritual · Simraungadh
Kankali temple and the Tughlaq story
A shikhara-style temple in the south-east of the market, home to a black stone image of Kankali Mai said to have been damaged by the Tughlaq army, with a bell dated to the late 13th century.
The Kankali temple stands in the south-eastern part of Simraungadh's market area, a tall shikhara tower rising above the houses. Inside sits the black stone image of Kankali Mai, a fierce form of the goddess. Local tradition says the image was mangled by Tughlaq soldiers when the city fell in the 1320s. Families still come here to mark important moments in their lives.
Before restoration the site was simply called Kankali Mai Sthan, a ruin where people still worshipped. A sadhu named Mansaram Baba rebuilt a small temple before 1816, and the present building was raised by his disciple in 1967. A bell in front carries a date in the Lakshmana Samvat era that corresponds to 1283 CE. Ask the priest to show you the bell.
At Rama Navami in the month of Chaitra, thousands of worshippers from Nepal and India gather here. On ordinary mornings it is quiet, with a few families making offerings of flowers and vermilion. Visit respectfully, remove shoes and ask before photographing the image. Combine it with the Ranivas complex and a stretch of rampart for a full morning.
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Questions
Who is Kankali Mai?
Kankali is a fierce form of the Hindu goddess, related to Kali, worshipped as a protector. At Simraungadh her black stone image is the focus of the Kankali temple, and she is an important local deity, especially during Rama Navami in Chaitra (March–April).
How old is the Kankali temple?
The present building dates from 1967, on a site restored by Mansaram Baba before 1816. The temple bell carries a date corresponding to 1283 CE, from the Karnata period, and the image is believed to be much older than the current structure.
Can foreigners enter the Kankali temple?
Respectful visitors are generally welcome in the temple grounds. Remove shoes, dress modestly and follow the lead of worshippers. Some inner areas may be reserved for Hindus; ask the priest or your guide before entering, and before taking photographs. A small offering is welcome.
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