How Tanot Mata's Temple Withstood Pakistan Army’s Onslaught in 1966 and 1971

Rajasthan, India: Tanot Mata Temple, nestled in Thar Desert near India-Pakistan border, stands as a monument of unshakable faith and incredible resilience. Dedicated to Hindu goddess Tanot Rai, temple's origins date back to 828 when Bhati Rajput King Tanu Rao constructed it, installing idol of deity that has since been revered by generations of Bhati Rajputs and people of Jaisalmer.  

However, it is not just temple's antiquity that makes it remarkable; its significance was magnified during Indo-Pakistani Wars of 1965 and 1971, where it became a beacon of divine protection amidst chaos of battle.  

A Fortress of Faith During 1965 Indo-Pak War  

Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 saw Tanot come under direct attack from Pakistan Army. temple, situated in a strategic location close to border, was a prime target. Pakistani forces fired an estimated 3,000 bombs towards temple in an attempt to destroy it. Miraculously, as per local lore and accounts from soldiers, not a single bomb that landed near temple exploded. bombs eir missed ir target or were rendered ineffective, a phenomenon that has since been attributed to divine protection of Tanot Mata by those who believe in deity's power.

In aftermath of 1965 war, Border Security Force (BSF) of India took over responsibility of managing and maintaining temple. It was under BSF's care that Tanot Mata Temple became a symbol not only of faith but also of national pride, with soldiers and civilians alike paying homage to deity believed to have shielded m from destruction.  

1971 Indo-Pak War and Battle of Longewala  

temple's resilience was tested once again during Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Pakistani forces, determined to succeed where y h previously failed, launched an assault that saw ir tanks vance towards Tanot. However, just as before, temple seemed to be under goddess's protection. tanks became bogged down in desert sands, unable to proceed. This delay allowed Indian Air Force to launch a counter-attack, destroying stranded tanks and forcing Pakistani forces into retreat.

Following decisive victory at Battle of Longewala, which took place between December 4th and 7th, 1971, Indian Army commemorated event by constructing Vijay Stambha (Victory Tower) within temple compound. battle, fought by 120 Indian soldiers of 23rd Battalion, Punjab Regiment, commanded by Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, against a vastly superior Pakistani force of 2,000-3,000 soldiers and 30-40 tanks, has since become a legendary tale of bravery and strategic acumen. soldiers, with help of Indian Air Force fighter-bombers, held ir ground against overwhelming odds, a victory that is celebrated each year at Tanot Mata Temple.  

Tanot Mata Temple Today 

Today, Tanot Mata Temple continues to draw visitors not only for its spiritual significance but also for its historical legacy. temple has become a symbol of enduring spirit of Indian Armed Forces and faith that has protected m through some of most challenging times in nation's history.

Vijay Stambha stands as a reminder of bravery displayed during Battle of Longewala, while temple itself remains a place where past and present coexist, offering a glimpse into rich cultural heritage of region and stories of valour that define it. As temple's bells ring out across desert, y serve as a testament to resilience of faith and enduring power of belief, qualities that have helped Tanot Mata Temple withstand ravages of time and war, emerging each time with its spirit unbroken.