At Becharaji in the Mehsana region of Gujarat stands the temple of Bahuchara Mata, one of the most revered Mother-goddess shrines of the state. The Goddess is depicted riding a cockerel (kukkut), a symbol of innocence, and is worshipped as a powerful form of the Divine Mother and the kuladevi of many Gujarati and Rajput families. She is especially revered as the patron and protector of the kinnar community, who hold her in deep devotion.
Her legend tells of Bahuchara, a woman of the Charan community who, when set upon by a bandit, invoked the Goddess and became one with her divine power. The temple, developed under the patronage of the Gaekwads of Baroda, draws great crowds during Navaratri and on full-moon days.
Bahuchar Mata is worshipped as a Mother of truth, protection, and transformation, and her shrine at Becharaji is counted among the principal Devi seats of Gujarat.
