Tanot Mata Temple in Jaisalmer | 19 May 2025

Why in News? 

The 1,200-year-old Tanot Mata Temple, situated near the India-Pakistan border in Jaisalmer, is set to reopen after a temporary closure prompted by cross-border tensions. 

 Key Points 

• About Tanot Mata Temple: 
  • Shri Tanot Mata Mandir is an ancient Hindu temple situated in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. 
  • It is dedicated to Tanot Rai, a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Hinglaj Mata. 
  • According to local folklore, the temple was originally established by a group of tribal communities who worshipped Tanot Rai as their guardian deity. 
  • Over the years, it evolved into a major spiritual centre, attracting pilgrims from across the region. 
  • Wartime Significance and Legend: 
    • The temple gained national prominence during the Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971. 
    • Despite intense shelling by Pakistani forces, none of the bombs dropped near the temple exploded — a phenomenon widely regarded by locals and soldiers as divine protection. 
    • Several unexploded bombs from the 1965 war are now displayed in the Tanot Mata Museum, located within the temple complex. 
    • Following the 1971 war, the Indian government entrusted the temple’s management to the Border Security Force (BSF). 
  • Vijay Sthamba and Annual Commemoration: 
    • The Indian Army constructed a Vijay Sthamba (Victory Pillar) within the temple premises to honour India's triumph in the 1971 war. 
    • Every year on December 16, the temple hosts a commemorative event to celebrate India's victory over Pakistan. 
• Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum Reopens: 
  • Authorities reopened the Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum, located inside the historic Sonar Fort. 
  • About Sonar Fort: 
    • The Jaisalmer Fort is India’s only ‘living’ fort, with residents living within its walls, making its maintenance crucial for their safety. 
      • Built in 1156 AD by Raja Rawal Singh, the fort was strategically constructed to protect the kingdom from invasions. It was an important trade centre along the Silk Route, connecting India with Central Asia. 
        • Constructed from yellow sandstone that changes colour with sunlight, the fort appears golden, earning it the name "Sonar Quila" or "Golden Fort." 
      • The Raj Mahal (Royal Palace) is the largest palace within the fort, featuring ornate balconies and intricate carvings. It is a splendid example of medieval Rajasthani architecture, featuring a remarkable blend of Islamic and Rajput style influences. 

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the fort's maintenance. 
• The hill forts of Rajasthan, including Chittor, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Gagron, Amer, and Jaisalmer Forts, were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. 
  • Jaisalmer Fort along with the Forts of Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh and Ranthambore are protected as Monuments of National Importance of India under the Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Declaration of National Importance) Act of 1951.