Reviving Ancient Heritage: The Sacred Temple of Ajiyapal Devta in Simus Village
Nestled in the serene hills of Simus village in Ladbhadol, the ancient temple of Ajiyapal Devta holds a significant place in the hearts of locals. Known as the protector of the village, Ajiyapal Devta is believed to safeguard not only the villagers’ lives and possessions but also ensure bountiful harvests.
A Legacy of Faith and Tradition
The legend of Ajiyapal Devta is deeply rooted in the folklore of Himachal Pradesh. Temples dedicated to this deity can be found across Mandi and Kangra districts, including regions like Joginder Nagar, Ladbhadol, Chauharghati, and Bhangal. The temple in Simus village is particularly revered, standing atop the highest hill in the area, which is also named Ajiyapal.
According to village elders, this sacred site was once home to an ancient temple of Ajiyapal Devta. However, over time, the original structure fell into ruin, leaving only a few remnants of idols. Despite this, the villagers’ faith remained unwavering, and with collective effort, they revived the temple, restoring its significance in the community.
A Cultural Revival
In the past, the villagers of Simus celebrated the Sanjhi Jatar, a communal festival held in May and June, with grand devotion. During these festivities, the villagers would worship Ajiyapal Devta alongside Goddess Sharda (Simsa), accompanied by traditional music and rituals. These celebrations reinforced the deity’s role as the protector of crops and the well-being of the community.
However, in recent years, the temple fell into neglect, and the Jatar celebrations ceased. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated locals, the temple has been rebuilt, symbolizing a cultural revival for the village. Despite the absence of water and electricity at the site, the temple construction was made possible through collective labor and cooperation.
A Scenic Marvel
The temple’s location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From the holy site of Ajiyapal, visitors can witness the expanse of areas such as Hamirpur, Sujanpur, Jaisinghpur, Maa Ashapuri, Sandhol, Dharmapur, and Sarkaghat. On a clear day, the snow-clad Dhauladhar mountain range stands majestically in the backdrop.
The panoramic vistas also include Baijnath, the entire Ladbhadol region, Bhabhauri Dhar, Maa Chaturbhuja, and the confluence of the Beas and Binwa rivers. Winter snowfall transforms the area into a picturesque wonderland, showcasing the beauty of nature in its full glory.
A Journey Worth Taking
Reaching the temple requires a short but steep 25-30 minute trek from the Simus bus stand. To ease access for pilgrims, the local Gram Panchayat is working on improving the road under the MNREGA scheme.
This temple of Ajiyapal Devta is not just a spiritual center but also a testament to the resilience and faith of the villagers. Its revival marks the preservation of a rich cultural heritage, offering both spiritual solace and a glimpse into the scenic beauty of Himachal Pradesh.
