Panna: The historic Shri Baldeva Temple in Panna is preparing for its grand Hal Chhath festival, celebrating the divine appearance of Lord Baldeva. The temple is home to a magnificent and unique statue of Baldeva, meticulously carved from a massive black Shaligrami stone. Believed to be the only temple of its kind in the world, its architecture is a breathtaking blend of Eastern and Western styles.
Today, women will observe the Hal Chhath fast, praying for the long lives of their sons. It is a deeply rooted tradition where fasting women abstain from grains and vegetables grown in tilled fields. Their diet consists of items harvested from ponds, such as tinni rice, and they avoid all dairy products from cows. They will perform traditional rituals, including drawing a picture of Chhath Mata on a wall, to seek blessings for their children.
The temple itself is a marvel of design. Built from 1876 to 1879, its outer facade is modeled after London’s famous St. Paul’s Cathedral, while its interior features intricate Bundeli architectural elements. The temple is built around the 16 divine arts of Lord Krishna, featuring 16 large pillars and a symmetrical design with 16 steps, windows, and domes. This unique fusion of styles and the temple’s rich history make it a prominent site of worship and a testament to the region’s artistic and spiritual heritage.
