Jwalamukhi Mata Katha – Chapter 3: The Discovery of the Flame

The Discovery of Jwala

The construction of Shakti Peethas on Earth had been completed by the strike of Vishnu's discus. Wherever Sati's body parts fell, those places became sacred. Now it was time for Jwala Ji to manifest, whose glory was to resonate throughout the three worlds. Mother Earth was waiting, concealing Jwala within her womb, for the right moment of its revelation.

The Shepherd's Amazing Discovery

Time was moving at its own pace. One day, in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, a shepherd was grazing his sheep. The sun was intense, and he sat down tiredly under a large rock. There was greenery all around, and the sweet music of birds made the atmosphere joyful. Suddenly, his gaze fell upon a wondrous sight. Flames of fire were emanating from near the rock! He was scared, but his curiosity urged him forward.

He thought to himself, "What kind of miracle is this? How can fire burn without any wood or fuel? Could this be some divine power?" With mixed feelings of fear and wonder, he approached the fire and began to pray with folded hands, "O Goddess, whatever you may be, forgive me. I am ignorant."

The Message Reaches King Bhumi Chand

The shepherd went to the village and told everyone about the amazing fire. Initially, people did not believe him, but upon the shepherd's repeated insistence, some people accompanied him to the spot. They saw the flames of fire with their own eyes and were astonished. This news spread like wildfire and reached the ears of King Bhumi Chand. King Bhumi Chand was a religious and just ruler. He decided to visit the place himself. When he saw the Jwala, his eyes filled with devotion.

King Bhumi Chand understood that this was no ordinary fire, but a symbol of the Goddess's power. Deep respect for Jwala Ji arose in his heart. He decided at that very moment that he would build a grand temple at this sacred site. With the grace of Jwala Ji, prosperity would reside in his kingdom.

The Attempt to Build the Temple

King Bhumi Chand immediately commenced the work of temple construction. He summoned skilled artisans and architects. The work was progressing rapidly, but obstacles kept arising. Sometimes the foundation would weaken, and sometimes the walls would collapse. King Bhumi Chand became disheartened. He consulted the priests. The priests informed him that Mother Jwala was not yet ready to be installed in the temple. Until the Goddess herself willed it, the temple's construction would not be successful. King Bhumi Chand would have to wait for the next sign. The next test would be of Akbar, through which the power of Jwala Ji would spread throughout the world.