Pratapeshwar Temple in Jaipur is probably one of the least heard among the heritage temples in Jaipur! Situated in Chandni Chowk, close to one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jaipur, City Palace, its presence can best be described as “muted’! The entrance to Pratapeshwar Temple is overshadowed by the famous Triploia Gate as well as an uninspiring door.

It was built by Maharajah Sawai Pratap Singh.  Hawa Mahal, Brij Nidhi temple, Goverdhan Nath temple were commissioned by Sawai Pratap Singh. The temple was built in 1794 AD; Pratapeshwar Temple is 267 Year old!

Upon entering the temple, one comes across an inner perimeter and gate which is ornate and beautifully adorned with lion motifs. . 

Lion motif is the most dominant feature of this entry gate. Lion motif is a hallmark style among all the temples built by Maharajah Sawai Pratap Singh. Lion in Dhoondhadi, a dialect of Rajasthani is called Naahar

The Jaali pattern in the inner perimeter wall is similar to the architectural style used in Hawa Mahal, too. The architectural style used in Pratapeshwar Temple has two key elements, high plinth level and fusion of Mughal-Rajput architectural styles. Pratapeshwar Temple is located close to the Tripolia Gate which is a well known landmark in Jaipur.

To the uninitiated, Tripoliya Gate is closed for the use of the general public. This is reserved for the exclusive use of family members of erstwhile Jaipur royalty.  Link to the picture

The tradition of installing foundation stone in the buildings was followed in Jaipur during 18th & 19th Century! In the picture below, the foundation stone of Pratapeshwar Temple has all the relevant information like laying of foundation stone, date etc.

Most temples sanctioned or commissioned by the Jaipur royal family are from the Vaishnava sect of Hinduism. This one is an exception though. Pratapeshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Here is a picture of the Jagmohan, the worship hall.

The temple sanctum has idols of Shiva Family i.e. Bhagwan Ganesha, Kartika, etc made out of white marble. It is also known as Shiv Panchayat.

Pratapeshwar Temple is highlighted with beautiful walls and entrance gate. But the building’s housing sanctum is understated and simple. Unlike other temples built during similar time frames, this one has a simple Jagmohan i.e. worship hall.

The temple follows the same architectural features as other temples founded by Maharajah Sawai Pratap Singh–high plinth and walls, opulent and beautiful use of Chhatris, Jharokhas and Jalis, similar to the Brij Nidhi temple.

Pratapeshwar Temple is maintained by Devesthan Department of Rajasthan. The maintenance of the temple is far from satisfactory. There is an urgent need for repair and maintenance in the temple compound.

The popular opinion among historians is that Jaipur reached its architectural epitome during the rule of Maharajah Sawai Pratap Singh. Hawa Mahal, Brij Nidhi temple are a few examples of the exquisite workmanship and architecture of this period. 

Probably, in its heydays it was a popular temple, given its proximity to the city palace -the residence of royalty. Unfortunately, it’s not the same anymore!

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