Holy
Pilgrimage – Temples in Rajasthan
State
Galtaji, Rajasthan
Galtaji is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site in the town of Khaniya-Balaji Indian state of Rajasthan. The site consists of several temples and sacred kunds (water tanks) in which pilgrims bathe. It is believed that Saint Galav spent his life[ at Galtaji, practiced meditation, and did penance (tpasya). The site was of particular importance to the Vaishnavite Ramandandis.
Temples
Galtaji has been a retreat for Hindu ascetics since the early 1500s; its present temple was built by Diwan Rao Kriparam, a courtier of Sawai Jai Singh II, in the 18th Century. The main temple is the Temple of Galtaji, built in pink stone. The temple features a number of pavilions with rounded roofs, carved pillars, and painted walls.There is another temple in the complex, the temple of Balaji. Yet another notable temple at Galta is Surya Temple; Surya is dedicated to the Sun God and was built in the 18th century.
Monkeys
The place is known as Monkey temple (Galwar Bagh) in travel literature, due to the large tribe of monkeys who live here. These rhesus macaques were featured in National Geographic channel's Rebel Monkeys series.Water tanks
The temple is famous for its natural water springs. which draw special attention of the visitors. The water of these springs is accumulated in the tanks (kunds). There are seven tanks, the holiest being the Galta Kund, which never goes dry. It is considered auspicious to take bath in the waters of Galtaji, especially on Makar Sankranti, and thousands come to bathe every year.
Best Time To Visit
Every year in mid-January, on 'Makar Sankranti', a large crowd of visitors come
here to take a dip in the holy kund. Sunset is the best time to visit this
gracious temple because, at this time, you can witness a large family of
monkeys flocking towards the temple tank, for a bath. The visiting hours for
this temple are from sunrise to sunset.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
We can also visit the Krishna Temple,
Surya Temple,
Balaji Temple
and the Sita Ram
Temple, situated very near to the Galtaji Temple. Another tourist attraction near
this temple is the Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, which is a magnificent palace and
garden.
A reminder of the regality of Rajasthan, the Galtaji Temple
has a splendid architecture and is enclosed in natural scenic beauty. This
temple, located in a mystical place, is a pleasure for all tourists. The sacred
shrine, surrounded by a clan of monkeys, makes this place, eye-catching and
interesting, for nature lovers and photographers.
Location
20km from Jaipur On Jaipur-Agra Highway, near Sisodia Rani ka Bagh
Garh Ganesh Temple, Rajasthan
Garh Ganesh Temple is an ancient temple of Lord Ganesh in the city of Jaipur. It is located on the hills near Nahargarh Fort and Jaigarh Fort.Ghushmeshwar, Rajasthan
Ghushmeshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines mentioned in the Shiva Purana (kotirudra sahinta,Ch.32-33 referred as "ghushmeshwar jyotirlinga"). Ghushmeshwar is believed as the Last or 12th (twelfth) Jyotirlinga on the earth. The temple is located 100 km from Jaipur in Rajasthan India. The temple is located near the famous Ranthambore National Park.Gogamedi, Rajasthan
Gogamedi is a place of religious importance in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan (India), 359 km from Jaipur.A grand fair is held at Gogamedi in August in memory of Gogaji (a Chauhan Rajput from Dadrewa Village in Churu District). The fair is held from the ninth day of the dark half of Bhadrapada (Goga Navami) to the eleventh day of the dark half of the same month. It is believed that Gogaji went into samādhi at Gogamedi. Thousands of devotees gather to pay homage at this memorial annually in the month of Bhadrapada during the Gogaji fair. The inscription in Persian at the main entrance describes Mahmud of Ghazni's regard for Gogaji.
Gogamedi is accessible on NH 65 from Chandigarh; go straight to Hisar (Haryana) and from Hisar to Balsamand. From Balsamand take the road to Bhadra. From Bhadra its just 15 km on the way to Nohar.
Govind Dev Ji Temple, Rajasthan
The Hindu temple Govind Dev Ji is situated in Jaipur in Rajasthan state of India. It is located in the City Palace complex. The temple is dedicated to Govind Dev Ji (Lord Krishna). The image of the deity (murti) was brought from Vrindavan here by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. According to popular legend, Lord Krishna's image in the temple looks exactly like Krishna's form during his incarnation on Earth.The deity originally belonged to Srila Rupa Goswami who was a disciple of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
History
As is the Legend, the Holy Image of Lord Govind Devji was also called "BAJRAKRIT" communicating thereby that it was created by Bajranabh – The Great Grand Son of Lord Shri Krishna. SOME 5,000 YEARS BACK WHEN SHRI BAJRANABH WAS AROUND 13 YEARS OF AGE, he asked his Grand Mother(daughter-in-law of Lord Krishna) as to how Lord Shri Krishna looked like; Then He made an image as per the description given by her. She however, said that not all but the Feet of that image looked like those of Lord Shri Krishna. He made another image, yet she said that the Chest looked like that of Lord Shri Krishna. Thereafter, He made the Third Image and looking at the same she felt Blush and Nodded that yes that was what Lord Shri Krishna Looked Like!!! The First One came to be known with the Name Lord "Madan Mohanji". The Second One got recognition as Lord "GOPI NATHJI". AND the Third One, The LIVE Divine Majestic Holy Image is LORD "GOVIND DEVJI".With passing of ages the glories of the Indian Culture were being forgotten and the sands of time kept piling up. Togetherwith every other thing these pious divine images were also lost from the memories of people. Some 500 years ago Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu took his birth on the Indian Soil and did the massive work to remove the layers of ignorance & infuse back in our lives the forgotten vitality of great grand Indian Past.Vrindavn Dham had become almost a Jungle by the early 16th Century.No trace of the original place was left at the site.Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had visited the site in 1514 A.D. and had discovered some of the places mentioned in the Bhagvat Purana. But he was not able to stay here long enough to bring out the complete Glory of The Place.
For Vaishnavites, particularly followers of Lord Krishna, this is one of the most important temples outside Vrindavan.
'Aartis' and 'Bhog' are offered seven times a day, when the deity is unveiled for 'Darshan'. Thousands of devotees visit the temple daily and even larger number visit during Janmashtami.
Harshnath, Rajasthan
Harshnath (Hindi: हर्षनाथ्) is an old Hindu temple situated in the Sikar district of the Indian state Rajasthan. It is 14 km. away from district headquarter Sikar.Introduction
It is an ancient site famous for the ruins old Shiva temple (10th century) located on the high hills of Aravali. The architectural display of the old temple is breath taking.It was developed by first singhraj, the erstwhile Emperor of Ajmer. The original temple was made in 973 AD which was later destroyed by Mugal Emperor Aurangjeb in 1679 AD. In 1718 AD, Rao Shivsingh made a new temple adjacent to the old temple using the ruins of the old temple.Location of Sikar
Sikar is 114 km away from Jaipur, 320 km from Jodhpur 215 km from Bikaner and 280 km from Delhi.
Other places to be visited in Sikar
- Sikar Fort
- Sai Dham (Mundwara)
- Madho Niwas Kothi
- Radha Damodar Mandir
- Bolta Balaji mandir
- Rani Mahal
- Devi Pura Balaji
- Santoshi Mata Mandir
- Maroo Park
- Nehru Park
- Ganesh Mandir, Fatehpuri Gate
- Temple of Gopinathji, Subhash Chowk
- Diwan Ji Ki Nashiya, Jatiya Bazar
- Diwan Ji ki Haveli
- Shobhagyavati mandir
- Shri Ram Hanuman mandir (Radha kishan pura Sikar)
- Mata Mansa Devi Temple, Hasampur
Jagannath Temple, Alwar, Rajasthan
Jagannath Temple (Devnagari: जगन्नाथ मन्दिर) is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Alwar, India. The temple's presiding deity is anthropomorphic form of Lord Jagannath of Puri, while other two deities are SitaramJi and JankiJi. The temple is located in old part of the city and is famous for its annual Rath Yatra festival where Lord Jagannath is carried in a chariot called Indra Vimana. The chariot (earlier an elephant carriage) had been used by erstwhile Maharaja of Alwar and was donated to the temple lateron to be used for the Rath yatra. The Rath Yatra festival follows different traditions and rituals than those of Puri. Here, it is part of annual wedding celebration taking place between Lord Jagannath and JankiJi.
Jagdish Temple, Udaipur
Jagdish Temple is a large Hindu temple in the middle of Udaipur in Rajasthan. A big tourist attraction, the temple was originally called the temple of Jagannath Rai but is now called Jagdish-ji. It is a major monument in Udaipur. The Jagdish Temple is raised on a tall terrace and was completed in 1651. It attaches a double-storey Mandapa (hall) to a double-story saandhara (with a covered ambulatory) sanctum. The mandapa has another storey tucked within its pyramidal samavarna (bell-roof) while the hollow clustered spire over the sanctum contains two more, nonfunctional stories.Lanes taking off from many of the sheharpanah (city wall) converge on the Jagdish Temple. It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh Ist in 1651. It is an example of Indo-Aryan architecture.
This Temple is dedicated to Lord Sri Lakshmi Narayana
Jagdish Temple
is one of the famous temples of Udaipur.
Located in the City Palace complex of Udaipur, this temple is made in the
Indo-Aryan style of architecture. In 1651, Jagdish temple was built by Maharana
Jagat Singh, who ruled Udaipur
during 1628-53. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the
preserver of the Universe. It is celebrated for being the largest temple in the
city of Udaipur.
The gateway of this temple can be sited at a distance of 150 meters from the
Bara Pol of the City
Palace.
This three-storied temple is a wonder of architecture that comprises
beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls.
In those times, 1.5 million rupees were spent to raise this structure. The
spire of the main temple is around 79 feet high that undoubtedly dominates the
skyline of Udaipur.
This shikhar (spire) is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants,
horsemen and musicians making it truly a sight to behold.
As and when you approach the temple, you will be welcomed by two huge stone
elephants at the entrance. On the very front of the temple, you would find a
stone slab that is imprinted with the inscriptions with reference to Maharaja
Jagat Singh. To reach the main shrine, you have to take a marble flight of 32
steps. Here, you will find a brass image of Garuda, a figure of half-man and
half-eagle. This huge idol stands as if; it is guarding the doorway of Lord
Vishnu.
The main shrine houses the striking four-armed image of Lord Vishnu. This idol
is carved out of a single piece of black stone. A single glimpse of the idol
takes the person to the celestial world to find everything calm and serene. The
main shrine of Lord Jagdish/ Vishnu is centrally located encircled by four
smaller shrines. These shrines are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Sun God, Goddess
Shakti and Lord Shiva respectively.
The splendid architecture of the temple boasts of a pyramidal spire, mandap
(prayer hall) and a porch. The first and the second storey of the temple
possess 50 pillars each. The intricate carvings on the pillars need an enduring
sight to praise the noteworthy beauty of this temple. This temple was built
keeping in the mind the Hindu architectural science of 'Vastushstra'. Every
year, people from far and near come to visit this holy place of worship. The
serenity as well as the architectural magnificence of the temple cannot be
bounded in words, so one must visit this temple to get the blessings of Lord Jagdish.
Jeenmata, Rajasthan
Jeenmata is a village of religious importance in Sikar district of Rajasthan, India. It is located at a distance of 29 km from Sikar town in south. There is an ancient Temple dedicated to Jeen Mata (Goddess of Power). The sacred shrine of Jeenmata is believed to be a thousand years old. Millions of devotees assemble here for a colourful festival held twice in a year in the month of Chaitra and Ashvin during the Navratri. There are a number of dharamshalas to accommodate large number of visitors. Just close to this temple her brother Harsh Bhairav nath's temple is situated on the top of the hill.Jeenmata temple is situated near the hill 10 km from village Rewasa. It is surrounded by thick forest.Its full and real name was Jayantimala. The year of its construction is not known however the sabhamandapa and pillars are definitely very old.
The temple of Jeenmata was a place of pilgrimage from early times and was repaired and rebuilt several times. There is a popular belief which has come down to people through the centuries that in a village Ghanghu of Churu, King Ghangh loved and married an Apsara (nymph) on the condition that he would not visit her palace without prior information. King Ghangh got a son called Harsha and a daughter Jeen. Afterwards she again conceived but as chance would have it king Ghangh went to her palace without prior intimation and thus violated solemn vow he had made to the Apsara. Instantly she left the king and fled away with her son Harsha and daughter Jeen whom she abandoned at the place where presently the temple stands. The two children here practiced extreme asceticism. Later a Chauhan ruler built the temple at that place.
Jeen Mata's main followers include the Great Yadavs(Ahir), Rajputs, Jeengars and Meenas alonwith Baniyas of the area. Jeen Mata is the kuldevi of the Great Yadavs(Ahir), Meena's,Shekhawati rajputs (Shekhawats) and Jeengars, a warrior class of Rajasthan. A large number of Jeen Mata's followers reside in Kolkata who keep visiting Jeen Mata temple.
The other famous temple of Sikar District, Khatushyamji is at a distance of twenty-six kilometers.
Kaila devi, Rajasthan
Kaila devi temple is a Hindu temple situated 23 km from Karauli in the Karauli district of Rajasthan state in India. The temple is located on the banks of the Kalisil river, a tributary of the Banas River in the hills of Trikut, 2 km to the north-west of Kaila village.History
The temple is dedicated to the tutelary deity, goddess Kaila Devi, of the erstwhile princely Jadaun Rajput rulers of the Karauli state. It is a marble structure with a large courtyard of a checkered floor. In one place are a number of red flags planted by devotees.These Red flags existing in the Kaila devi mandir are placed by the devotees. Devotees used to put the bhog along with these flags there in kaila devi mandir on each day of the year. The Jagran by the bhagat ji is the most attractive thing here happens every night at 09:00 PM IST in the temple. Devotees used to come there by foot from different areas of Rajasthan in the month of Chaitra.
Festival or Fair
The annual fair of Kaila Devi, (Mahalakshmi or the goddess of wealth),[2] is held at the village Kaila in the month of Chaitra (Mar-Apr), lasting for a fortnight. Another attraction is the small temple dedicated to Bhairon,[1] situated in the courtyard and facing the shrine of Kaila Devi is a temple of Hanuman locally called 'Languriya'.Approximately 200,000 devotees gather during the fair. The ritual of Kanak-Dandotis is observed by staunch devotees. They cover a distance of 15 to 20 km to reach the temple, not on foot but by lying prostrate, making lines with their hands in that position, advancing up to the line drawn and repeating this procedure till they reach the temple.
While some eat food and take rest during the journey, others endure the rigors of the ritual without these.
Groups of Mina tribesmen arrive in a spirit of gaiety dancing, singing and creating a lively atmosphere. The spacious courtyard becomes the venue for dances and songs sung in praise of the guardian deity.
Getting There
The nearest rail-head is Hindaun at a distance of about 48 km. Shri Mahavirji is another rail-head of the Western Railway near Kaila. The site is approachable by well maintained roads from Karauli, Hindaun and Mahavirji. During the fair, the State Transport as well as private operators provide bus services keeping in mind the huge inflow of pilgrims.The Katare's is a very respected clan in Hindus. They are the descendants of Maharishi Vasisth who was the guru of Lord Rama. They regards Kaila mata as their Kul Devi. The Jadaun Thakur's (Rajputs) {The Jadaun (also spelled as Jadon) are a clan (gotra) of Chandravanshi (Yaduvanshi) Rajputs [Thakur]'s found in North India and Pakistan} regard the goddess as their Kul Devi.
There are two statues in the temple, one is of Kaila Devi and one is of Chamunda Devi both are sitting together.Bigger one is of Kaila Devi and head of statue is slightly bent.people come here from across the country especially during Navratre(period of 9 days).
This temple consist of the palace of the Raja in its background. Raja and his family used to come here on the big occasions.
Hotel and Restaurant
On the way to Kaila Devi, one has to pass through Hindaun City which has one of the best hotel and restaurant of the city, named Punjab Resort. Place and food both are nice. It can be contacted on www.punjabresort.comThere are many restaurants situated on the way of temple which provides good variety of food. Gupta Bhojnalaya is one of the best restaurant among them where you can have the food without onion and garlic in it.
Accessbility
- Air
- Rail
- Road
Climate
In summer from April to June the temperature goes up to maximum of 47 degrees C. and in winter season it comes down minimum up to 12 degrees C.Place of Interest
Gufa TempleThis is the original temple of Kaila Devi. This place was declared unsafe due to threat from the animals in jungle of the Ranthambore. This is 8–10 km far from the town. Devotees can walk there for the darshan.
Ranthambore Century
Kaila devi is connected to one side of the century. which has an entrance from this town.
Mahaveer ji
This is also a Hindu holy place which is around 45 km from kaila devi town.
Mehndipur Balaji
This is a temple of Balaji situated at a distance of around 95 km from Kaila devi town
Kalika Mata Temple, Chittorgarh Fort
Kalika Mata Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located within the Chittorgarh Fort in the Chittorgarh municipality of Rajasthan state in India. It predates Maharana Pratap and has thousands of visitors every day. The goddess worshipped at this temple is an aspect of goddess Bhadrakali, clan goddess of Pawar clan.
Chitaurgarh (Urdu: چِتوڑگڑھ), (Hindi: चित्तौड़गढ़)
pronunciation (help·info)} (also Chittor, Chittaur,
or Chitorgarh) is a city and a municipality in Rajasthan
state of western India.
It lies on the Berach River, a tributary of the Banas,
and is the administrative headquarters of Chittorgharh District and a former capital of
the Sisodia
clans of Rajputs
of Mewar.
The city of Chittaurgarh is located on the banks of river Gambhiri and Berach.
The district was bifurcated and a new district namely Pratap Garh was created
with certain portion taken from Udaipur district in the newly created district
of Pratap Garh.Fiercely independent, the fort of Chittor was under siege thrice and each time they fought bravely and thrice Jauhar was committed by the ladies and children, first led by Rani Padmini, and later by Rani Karnavati. The famous warriors Gora and Badal, in the war against Allaudin Khalji (1303 AD), have become legendary. The sacrifice of Jaimal and Phata in the war against the Mughals (1568 AD) was so great that the Mughal Emperor Akbar installed their statues in the fort of Agra. It has also been land of worship for Meera. Chittorgarh is home to the Chittorgarh Fort, the largest fort in Asia.
Transport
The completed Golden Quadrilateral highway system will pass through Chittorgarh, connecting it to much of the rest of India. Also crossing the East West Corridor (Express Highway). The Chittorgarh is situated at National Highway No. 76 & 79, both the Highways are crossing at Chittorgarh. National Highway 76 connects to Kota within 2 hours. It is well connected by rail with Jaipur via Bhilwara and Ajmer, Kota via Bundi, Jodhpur via Ajmer, Indore Junction BG, Bhopal, Indore Mhow, Ujjain, Ratlam, Nagda Junction, Ajmer and Fatehabad by many Broad gauge trains. The city is also connected to Udaipur City via Mavli Jn. It is also connected to Kota via Bundi. Thus, Chittaur Garh is a major rail junction of south Rajasthan. Some weekly trains to Hyderabad and Kolakata are passing through this station. The town still lacks connectivity to Bikaner, Ahmedabad, Jabalpur and Nagpur, so in order to catch trains for further cities one has to reach Kota.Khatushyam, Rajasthan
In Hinduism, KhatuShyam is a name and manifestation of Barbarika, son of Ghatotkacha. This manifestation is especially popular in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The original Sanskrit name Barbarīka is often replaced in Rajasthan by the Hindi version, Barbarīk, often written as Barbareek.Barbarika had obtained a boon from Krishna to the effect that he would be known by Krishna's own name (Shyam) in the Kaliyuga era (presently ongoing) and worshiped. Krishna had declared that Barbarika's devotees would be blessed just by pronouncing his name from the bottom of their hearts. Their wishes would be granted and troubles removed if they worship Shyamji (Barbarika) with a true piety.
Legend
The legend begins with the Mahābhārata. Barbarika alias 'KhatuShyam' alias Shyam Baba was a grandson of Bhima, Second of the Pandava brothers. He was the son of Ghatotkacha (who in turn was son of Bhima) and Kamkantkata Ma Morwi . Even in his childhood, Barbarika was a very brave warrior. He learnt the art of warfare from his mother. God Shiva, pleased with him, gave him the three infallible arrows (Teen Baan). Hence, Barbarika came to be known by the appellation Teen Baan Dhaari, the "Bearer of Three Arrows". Later, Agni (the god of Fire) gave him the bow that would make him victorious in the three worlds.When Barbarika got to know that battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas had become inevitable, he wanted to witness what was to be the Mahābhārata War. He promised his mother that if he felt the urge to participate in the battle, he would join the side which would be losing. He rode to the field on his Blue Horse equipped with his three arrows and bow.
Krishna tests Barbarika
Krishna disguised as a Brahmin and stopped Barbarika to examine his strength. He baited Barbarika by mocking him for going to the great battle with only three arrows. On this, Barbarika replied that a single arrow was enough to destroy all his opponents in the war, and it would then return to his quiver. He stated that, the first arrow is used to mark all the things that he wants to destroy. On releasing the third arrow, it would destroy all the things that are marked and will then return to his quiver. If he uses the second arrow, then the second arrow will mark all the things that he wants to save. On using the third arrow, it will destroy all the things that are not marked. In other words, with one arrow he can fix all his targets and with the other he can destroy them.Barbarika's phenomenal power
Krishna then challenges him to tie all the leaves of the peepal tree under which he was standing with these arrows. Barbarika accepts the challenge and starts meditating to release his arrow by closing his eyes. Then, Krishna without the knowledge of Barbarika, plucks one of the leaf of the tree and puts it under his foot. When Barbarik releases his first arrow, it marks all the leaves of the tree and finally starts revolving around the leg of Krishna. For this Krishna asks Barbarika, as why was the arrow revolving around his foot? For this, Barbareek replies that there must be a leaf under his foot and the arrow was targeting his foot to mark the leaf that is hidden under him. Barbarika advises Krishna to lift his leg, since, otherwise the arrow will mark the leaf by pricking Krishna's leg. Thus, Krishna lifts his foot and to his surprise, finds that the first arrow also marks the leaf that was hidden under his foot. Of course, the third arrow does collect all the leaves (including the one under Krishna's foot) and ties them together. By this Krishna concludes that the arrows are so infallible, that even if Barbarika is not aware of his targets, the arrows are so powerful that they can still navigate and trace all his intended targets. The moral of this incident is that, in a real battle field, if Krishna wants to isolate some one (for example: the 5 Pandava brothers) and hides them elsewhere in order to avoid them from being Barbarika's victim, then Krishna will not be successful as the arrows after destroying the whole army, can trace the hidden targets also and destroy them. So, nobody will be able to escape from these arrows. Thus Krishna gets a deeper insight about Barbarika's phenomenal power.The Consequence of Barbarika's word to his mother
Krishna then asks the boy whom he would favour in the war. Barbarika reveals that he intends to fight for the side whichever is weak. As Pandavas have only seven Akshouni army, when compared to Kauravas eleven, he considers that Pandavas are weak and hence wants to support them so that Pandavas will become victorious. But Krishna asks him, did he seriously gave a thought about the consequences before giving such a word to his mother (to support the weak side). Barbarika guesses that his support to the weaker side will make them victorious. Then, Krishna reveals the actual consequence of his word to his mother:Krishna tells that, according to the strategy of Kauravas not the entire eleven Akshouni army will be used to wage a war on the first day. Hence, the part of Kaurava's army that comes before Pandavas on the first day, will be completely destroyed by Barbareek. But, that part of Kaurava's army that does not come before Pandavas on the first day will become weak. This will force Barbareek to support Kauravas and fight against Pandavas. Now, Barbareek will destroy that part of Pandavas army that comes before Kauravas. The remaining part of Pandavas army that does not come before Barbareek will now become very weak. Thus, whichever side he supports will only make the other side weak due to his phenomenal power and nobody will be able to defeat him. Thus, in an actual war, he will keep oscillating between the two sides, thereby destroying the entire army of both sides and eventually only he will remain. Subsequently, none of the side is victorious as he will be the only lone survivor. Hence, Krishna avoids his participation from the war by seeking his head in Charity.
Krishna's leg
The other version of story tells that the first arrow indeed pricks Krishna's leg and mark the leaf that is hidden under Krishna's foot. This becomes a weak spot of Krishna. Prior to this event, lord Krishna also gets a boon from sage Durvasa that his entire body except his leg will be immune to all weapons. Hence, only his leg will be vulnerable. In the end of Kurukshetra war, when Krishna revives Abhimanyu's son Parkishit, he looses half of his strength and thereby making him even more weaker. Later, in Mausala parva, a hunter by name Jara hits at Krishna's foot mistaking him for a deer leads to the death of Krishna. In other words, this weak spot on Krishna's foot was first created by Barbareek's arrow.The other interpretation of three arrows
The three arrows are signs of three "taaps" that humans experience. These include the physical, mental and emotional conflicts and confusions that are found almost everywhere. These three "taaps" are cleared with chanting of name of Krishna. Thus, giving Barabarika the name "Shyaam", the Lord intended to remove the three taaps of human like, symbolized with the three arrows.Act of charity
Why Lord Krishna asks for Barbareek's head
Lord Krishna asked Barbareek to sacrifice himself for two reasons:
1. Before the beginning
of the Mahabharat war, the head of the greatest warrior has to be sacrificed.
Krishna considers Barbareek to be the greatest warrior
2. Barbareek was a Yaksha
in his previous birth. Once Lord Brahma and several other Devas came to
Vaikunta and complained to Lord Vishnu that the Adharma on Earth was
increasing; it was not possible for them to bear the tortures causes by the
wicked people. Hence they came to seek the help of Lord Vishnu to check them.
Lord Vishnu told the Devas that he will soon incarnate on Earth as a human
being and destroy all the evil forces. Then, a Yaksha told the Devas that he
alone is enough to kill all evil elements on the Earth, and it was not
necessary for Lord Vishnu to descend to Earth. This hurts Lord Brahma very
much. Lord Brahma curses this Yaksha that whenever the time comes to eliminate
all the evil forces on Earth, then Lord Vishnu will first kill him. Later, the
Yaksha takes birth as Barbareek and Lord Krishna seeks his head in charity as a
result of this curse.
Bearing witness to the war
Before decapitating himself, Barbarika told Krishna of his great desire to view the forthcoming battle and requested him to facilitate the same. Krishna agreed and placed the head on top of a hill overlooking the battlefield. From the hill, the head of Barbarika watched the entire battle.At the end of the battle, the victorious Pandava brothers argued amongst themselves as to who was responsible for their victory. Krishna suggested that Barbarika's head, which had watched the whole battle should be allowed to judge. Barbarika's head suggested that it was Krishna alone who was responsible for the victory: his advice, his presence, his gameplan had been very crucial.
Other names
- Barbarika: Khatushyam's childhood name was Barbarika. His mother and relatives used to call him by this name before the name Shyam was given by Krishna.
- Sheesh Ke Daani: Literally: "Donor of Head"; As per the legend related above.
- Haare Ka Sahara: Literally: "Support of the defeated"; Upon his mother's advise, Barbarika resolved to support whoever has less power and is losing. Hence he is known by this name.
- Teen Baan Dhaari: Literally: "Bearer of three arrows"; Reference is to the three infallible arrows that he received as boon from God Shiva. These arrows were sufficient to destroy the whole world. The title written below these three arrows is Maam Sevyam Parajitah.
- Lakha-datari: Literally: "The Munificent Giver"; One who never hesitates to give his devotees whatever they need and ask for.
- Leela ke Aswaar: Literally: "Rider of Leela"; Being the name of his blue-coloured horse. Many call it Neela Ghoda or "blue horse."
- Khatu Naresh: Literally: "The King of Khatu"; One who rules Khatu and the whole universe.
- Kalyug ke Avtaari: Literally: "The God of Kaliyug"; As per Krishna he will be the God who will save good people in the era of Kalyug.
- SHYAM PYAREY: Literally: "The God who love all and all love to him, the spiritual relation between bhakt and bhagwan called nishkaam pyaar/prem "
Temple
After the Mahābhārata battle, Barbarika's head was drown in the river name rupawati by lord krishna giving lots of blessings.After many years when kalyug started the head was found buried in the village of Khatu in present-day Rajasthan. The location was obscured until well after the Kaliyuga period began. Then, on one occasion, milk started flowing spontaneously out of a cow's udder when she neared the burial spot. Amazed at this incident, the local villagers dug the place up and the buried head was revealed. The head was handed over to a Brahmin who worshipped it for many days, awaiting divine revelations as to what was to be done next. Roopsingh Chauhan, king of Khatu, then had a dream where he was inspired to build a temple and install the head therein. Subsequently, a temple was built and the idol was installed on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of the month of Phagun.There is another, only slightly different version of this legend. Roopsingh Chauhan was the ruler of Khatu. His wife, Narmada Kanwar, once had a dream in which the deity instructed her to take his image out of the earth. The indicated place (now known as Shyam Kund) when then dug up. Sure enough, it yielded the idol, which was duly enshrined in the temple.
The original temple was built in 1027 AD by Roopsingh Chauhan and his wife Narmada Kanwar. In 1720 AD, a nobleman known as Diwan Abhaisingh renovated the old temple, at the behest of the then ruler of Marwar. The temple took its present shape at this time and the idol was enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum. The idol is made of rare stone. Khatushyam is the family deity of a large number of families.
Architectural features
The temple is architecturally rich. Lime mortar, marble and tiles have been used in constructing the structure. The shutters of the sanctum sanctorum are beautifully covered with silver sheet. Outside is the prayer hall, named Jagmohan. The hall is large in size (measuring 12.3 m x 4.7 m) and its walls are elaborately painted, depicting mythological scenes. The entrance gate and exit gate are made of marble; their brackets are also of marble and feature ornamental floral designs.Precincts
There is an open space in front of the entrance gate of the temple. The Shyam Bagicha is a garden near the temple from where flowers are picked to be offered to the deity. The Samadhi of Aloo Singh, a great devotee, is located within the garden.The Gopinath temple lies to the south-east of the main temple. The Gaurishankar temple also lies nearby. There is an interesting tale associated with the Gaurishankar temple. It is said that some soldiers of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb wanted to destroy this temple. They attacked the Shiva lingam enshrined within this temple with their spears. Immediately, fountains of blood appeared from the Shiva Lingam. The soldiers ran away, terrified. One can still see the mark of the spear on the Lingam.
Khatushyam main temple is located at Khatu Town about 80 km from Jaipur. Devotees are requested to take route via Ringus.
Observances and festivals
Barbarika is worshiped as Shyam, being Krishna himself. Therefore, the flavour of the festivities reflects the playful and vibrant nature of Krishna. The festivals of Krishna Janmaashtami, Jhool Jhulani Ekadashi, Holi and Vasant Panchami are celebrated with gusto in the temple. The Phalguna Mela detailed below is the principal annual festival.Hundreds of devotees visit the temple every day. Newly married couples come to pay homage and newborn babies are brought to the temple for their mundan (the first hair-shaving) ceremony. An elaborate aarti is performed at the temple five times a day. These are:
- Mangala Aarti: performed in the early morning, when temple is open.
- Shringaar Aarti: performed at the time of make-up of Baba Shyam. The idol is grandly ornamented for this aarti.
- Bhog Aarti: performed at noon when bhog (Prasadam) is served to the Lord.
- Sandhya Aarti: performed in the evening, at sunset.
- Sayana Aarti: performed in the night, when temple is closed.
Other particular observances include:
Shukla Ekadashi and Dwadashi: The 11th and 12th days of the bright half of every month in the Hindu calendar is of special significance to the temple. This is because Barbarika was born on the 11th day of the bright half of the month of Kartika, and he donated his head (Sheesh) to Krishna on the 12th day of the bright half of the month of phaagun on Tuesday. Darshan on these two days is therefore considered auspicious and devotees come in their thousands every month. The temple remains open throughout the night that falls between these days. Night-long Bhajan sessions are organised since devotees traditionally pass the night in singing the praises of the Lord. Devotees organise Bhajan programmes and invite Bhajan singers to sing devotional songs.
Bathing in the Shyam Kund: This is the holy pond near the temple from which the idol was retrieved. It is believed that a dip in this pond cures a person from ailments and brings good health. Filled with devotional fervor, people take ritual dips in the Shyam Kund. They believe that this will relieve them of diseases and contagion. Bathing during the annual Phalguna Mela festival is deemed specially salutary.
Nishan Yatra: It is believed that your wishes are granted if you offer a Nishan at the temple. A Nishan is a triangular flag of a particular size, made of cloth, which is hoisted on a bamboo stick. It is carried in one's hands while covering the route from the town of Ringas to Khatu (17 km) on (bare) foot. Nishans are offered in millions during the Phalguna Mela.
Phalguna Mela: The most important festival associated with the temple is the Phalguna Mela which occurs just 3–4 days before from the festival of Holi. Barbarika's head appeared on Phalguna Shuddha Ekadashi, the 11th day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Phalguna. Therefore, the fair is held from the 9th to the 12th of that month.
An estimated one million devotees visit the temple during these four days from all corners of the country. There is virtually no vacant space in the town during this period. There is celebration and festivity in the moods of the devotees who wait for hours in long serpentine queues for a moment's glance of the deity. The whole town, along with the temple, is illuminated. Singers from all over the country come here to perform Bhajans on this holy occasion. Special arrangements are made for feeding the devotees in almost all the Dharamshalas and rest-houses. Special trains and buses operate during the mela. The government of Rajasthan takes care of the law and order during the fair.
Om Tat Sat
(Continued...)
(My
humble salutations to the great devotees
, wikisources and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the
collection )
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