SIRMUR

The Jagannath temple at Nahan constructed by Raja Budh Parkash in 1681 is rather a departure as there are very few Jagannath temples in Himachal Pradesh earlier to this. It is said, the Raja had a dream that Lord Jagan Nath was confined in an idol under the pipal tree to the North of the old capital and wanted to be unearthed and installed. The Raja did it.

Mention has to be made of the Thakur- dwaras, which house a variety of deities. Mostly these temples are dedicated to Lord Krishna. The Thakurdwara temples in Sirmur district are to be found in almost every part and show the tremendous hold of Vishnu cult. There are Thakurdwara temples at Badgala, Bhuira, Karganum villages (all in tahsil Pachhad), Nahan, Naoni (tahsil Nahan). The village Thakur Dwara in tahsil Pachhad has also a Thakurdwara.

Particular mention has to be made of Shirigul temple at Chaur Peak (Chin Peak) which is said to be the place of origin of Shirigul deity. The statue is a lingam and is also known as Chooreshwar Mahadev. On the first Sunday in the month of Ashad a large fair is held. Worship may be performed at any time and a worshipper usually brings with him his own Bhat to act as priest. Often "Jagra" or uninterrupted vigil-worship for a whole night is done.

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