|~Temples Dedicated to Lord Krishna~|

Keshav Dev Temple

Krishna Janmasthan, or Kesava Deo Temple is a temple in Mathura, India and is among the sacred of Hindu sites as it is birthplace of Lord Krishna. The Keshav Dev Temple is a Hindu temple situated besides the main Krishnajanmabhoomi complex, the birthplace of Lord Krishna in Mathura, India. Kehsav Dev (Krishna) is the deity of this temple. According to traditions the original deity was installed by Bajranabh, who was great-grandson of Krishna.

This temple still carries the local touch and feel of the several other temples in the twin towns of Mathura and Vrindaban. After 1992 Ayodhya situation, when security was enhanced at the main Krishnajanmabhoomi complex, this temple is slowly becoming the de-facto krishna temple for localites, in addition to the older Dwarikadheesh temple in the old town. This temple holds its own festival calendar, and hosts nearly all of the hindu functions within its own premises independently. The adjacent residential areas of mallapura, Govind Nagar, JagannathPuri are the main feeder for many of the festivals. It holds its own "lathamar holi", "chhappan bhog", "Krishna Janmashtami" among other festivals. Most of the festivals here are in sync with calendar followed in temples of Goverdhan, and out of sync with the main Krishnajanmabhoomi complex.

The history of Mathura dates back to 'Treta-Yuga,', which is earlier than the times of Lord Shri Krishna of 'Dwapara-Yuga'. According to the Puranas, Shatrughana, the younger brother of Lord Shri Rama, killed a demon named Lavana and established a town called 'Madhura'. 'Madhura came to be known as Mathura over time, where Shri Krishna would manifest Himself in the prison cell of the tyrant king Kansa.

Ancient relics found in Katra Keshavadeva and the researches of foreign and Indian scholars indicate that numerous grand and magnificient temples were constructed here from time to time. It is certain that an earlier shrine or series of shrines, on the same site and under the same dedication, had been famous for many ages. But, while most of them were destroyed by the ravages of time, the rest were ruined by the onslaughts of persons owing allegiance to a different religion. Not even a single temple could be saved.

According to the epics and folklore prevailing in the local area, the first temple was constructed on this spot by Vajranabha, the great grandson of Lord Shri Krishna, in memory of his family deity. A stone inscription in Brahmi script shows that in the reign of Shodasa, an individual named Vasu had a temple, an arched doorway and an altar constructed at the birthplace of Shri Krishna.

The next big temple was constructed here during the reign of Gupta Emperor, Chandragupta Vikramaditya in 400 A.D. Mathura was then a flourishing city, where Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism were held in high esteem. Close to the site of Janmasthan, Buddha Viharas and Jain temples were also in existence. From the remains of these, it has been established that the followers of Buddhism and Jainism had great regard for the birthplace of Lord Krishna. In 1017 A.D., the magnificent temple that had been built by Emperor Chandragupta Vikramaditya, was destroyed by Mahmud Ghaznavi. Mahmud Ghaznavi's scribe, Mir Munshi Al Utvi, described the grandeur of the temple and the beauty of Mathura of those times in his 'Tarikhe Yamini' thus: "In the centre of the city there was a huge and magnificent temple, which the people believed wasn't built by human beings but by the angels. Any description of the temple, either in words or in pictures, would fall short and fail to convey its beauty." After seeing the temple for himself, the Sultan Mahmud said that if any one wished to construct a building equal to it, he would not be able to do so without spending a hundred million dinars, and the work would occupy two hundred years, even though the most able and experienced workmen were employed.

A Sanskrit inscription incised on a stone slab was found in Katra Keshavadeva, which mentions that in Vikrama Samvat 1207 (1150 A.D.), when Maharaja Vijayapal Deva was the ruler of Mathura, an individual by the name of Jajja constructed a new temple on the site of Shri Krishna's birthplace. Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu came to Mathura and bathed at the Vishraam Teertha. Then he prayed and paid obeisance to the Lord at the Keshavadeva temple at Shri Krishna's birthplace. Imbued with his love for Lord Shri Krishna, Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu began to dance, sing and cry out the name of the Lord. People were mesmerised by his acts of divine love and began to chant, "Hari-Hari" along with him. The priest of the Keshavadeva temple garlanded Shri Chaitanya. Shri Chaitanya returned to Mathura after a visit to Gokul and paid obeisance to the Lord at His birthplace. He stayed at the house of the priest. This grand temple was destroyed in the early sixteenth century during the reign of Sikandar Lodi.

About 125 years later, during the reign of Jahangir, Raja Veer Singh Deva Bundela of Orchha constructed another magnificent temple (about 250 feet high) on the sacred spot at a cost of Rs. 33 Lakhs. A fortified boundary wall was also erected around it. A part of this wall exists even now. In the south-eastern corner of the compound, a large well with a tall tower was built up. The water of that well was lifted to a height of about 50 feet and was used to feed the fountains in the quadrangle of the temple. The well and the tower are extant today. According to Tavernier, a French traveller who visited Mathura in about 1650 A.D., "after Banaras, the most famous temple of India is situated at Mathura. It is octagonal in shape. Red sandstone has been used in it. All round the temple, the stone claddings have inscriptions of various kinds of animals. The Jagmohana is built upon one half of the temple's vast courtyard. At the centre is the main Mandap. The temple has many windows and is so vast that it can be seen from a distance of 5 to 6 Kosas." From the descriptions of the Italian traveller, Manuchi, it is clear that the gold canopied top of the temple could be seen even from Agra, which is at a distance of 18 Kosas (54 Kilometres). When lamps were lit on the Deepavali night, the light could be easily seen by the Emperor from Agra. Manuchi stayed in India for a long time and had the opportunity to see the temple several times.

Emperor Aurangzeb could not tolerate this sacred memorial, the fourth one at the birthplace of Lord Shri Krishna. So, in 1669 A.D., he had the Keshavadeva temple destroyed. Over a part of the raised plinth of the temple an ldgah was erected. Materials from the temple were utilised in the construction of the ldgah, which are still in existence. The visitors and devotees from India and abroad who came to see the temple's plight, felt deeply hurt and always hoped the temple would be rebuilt and its past glory restored.

In 1803, the Mathura region came under British rule. In 1815, the East India Company auctioned the area of Katra Keshavadeva, which was purchased by the then Raja Patnimal of Banaras. It was the earnest desire of Raja Patnimal that the Lord Keshavadeva temple should be rebuilt on the site of His birth. But his wish could not be fulfilled. His family heirs, however continued to have the ownership rights over Katra Keshavadeva. The Muslims of Mathura challenged the right of Raj Krishna Das, the owner of Katra, twice in civil suits. In both the cases, the Allahabad High Court ruling was that Raj Krishna Das was the real owner of the Katra Keshavadeva.

The Late Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya felt utterly distressed to see the miserable condition of this historical and sacred site. He started making plans for restoration of the shrine. With financial assistance from the Late Seth Jugal Kishoreji Birla, Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya acquired the entire land from Raj Krishna Das on 7th February, 1944 at a small sum of Rs. 13,000/-. This amount does not account for the real value of the sacred land, but the expenses incurred for fighting the case at various levels by Late Shri Kailash Nath Kataju. After these cases were won, Shri Madan Mohan Chaturvedi of Mathura made commendable efforts in restoring this sacred land to its rightful owner, Raj Krishna Das. However, Malaviyaji could not fulfill his wish during his life time. Before his death, he expressed touching sentiments and a strong desire for early completion of Lord Shri Krishna's memorial at the place of his birth. In order to fulfill the last wishes of the Late Malaviyaji, the Late Seth Jugal Kishorji Birla, on February 21, 1951, constituted a trust named 'Shri Krishna Janma Bhoomi Trust' and acquired the ownership rights over Katra Keshavadeva. Subsequently, the Trust was registered as a society, 'Shri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan.' On observing the earnest devotion of Shri Jaidayalji Dalmia towards Lord Krishna and the sacred land of Braja, Devout entrepreneur Shri Jugalkishoreji Birla handed over the responsibility of development and construction of various temples to be carried out in accordance to the magnitude mentioned on the sacred scripture (PURAN) Shri Jaidayalji Dalmia accepted this mammoth endeavor due to his earnest devotion towards Lord Shri Krishna and keenness towards Shri Birlaji and committed himself completely throughtout his life. It was due to the tireless efforts of Shri Jaidayalji Dalmia that a glorious initiation of the construction work at the Shri Krishna Janmasthan took place. Whether it is the beautification of the Keshavdev Temple or Garbha-Griha or the divine construction work of Shri Bhagwat Bhawan amongst many others, Shri Jaidayalji Dalmia was closely involved with each of these developments at this foremost sacred place. A substantial amount has been contriubuted by India's renowned industrialist family, the Dalmia Group towards the construction, maintenance and adornment at this holy place. After the departure of Shri Jaidayalji Dalmia to Goloka, his eminent son Shri Vishnuhariji Dalmia guides the many services that are being rendered for development of the divine premise by the Sansthan. At present Shri Anurag Dalmia is the Joint Managing Trustee of the Shri Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan. The first chairman of the trust committee was the earstwhile member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), the Late Shri Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar. After his demise, earstwhile member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) and ex-Governor of Bihar, Shri S. Anantashayanam Iyengar became the chairman of the Sansthan. Later, Swami Shri Akhandananda Saraswati and Shiromani Paramahansa Swami Vamdevji Maharaj became chairman of the Sansthan. At present, Mahant Nrityagopal Das Ji Maharaj holds the responsibility of chairmanship of the Sansthan.

Under the chairmanship of the revered Swami Shri Akhandananda Saraswati, the then Vice President of the Trust, a group of enthusiastic young volunteers of Mathura started clearing the mounds and filling up the pits through Shram Daan on the auspicious day, 15th October, 1953. Later, the work continued for several years with great perseverence under the leadership of Shri Babulal Bajaj and Shri Phool Chand Khandelwal. Thus began the restoration and contruction of the prison cell and the magnificent Shri Krishna Janmasthan complex, which was completed in February 1982. The main objective of the Trust is to develop the birthplace of Lord Shri Krishna as a centre of Hindu religion, culture and philosophy, and to publicise and propagate the message of Shrimadbhagavata Gita not only in our own country but also in foreign lands.

ISKCON Temple Bangalore:

Iskon Temple at night, bangalore

ISKCON Bangalore
Temple at Night

'Iskon Temple'(2013)

Sri Radha Krishnachandra Temple (Hindi: - ) or ^[3] has deities of Krishna and Radha located at Rajajinagar, in the North Bangalore, Karnataka, India. It is one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world.^[4] The temple is a huge cultural complex that was inaugurated in 1997 by Shankar Dayal sharma following the wishes of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acarya of ISKCON to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning.

'Gopuram'(2013)

'A Pond near the Temple campus'(2013)

Sri Radha Krishnachandra Temple has deities of Krishna and Radha located at Rajajinagar, in the North Bangalore, Karnataka, India. It is one of the largest ISKCON temples in the world. The temple is a huge cultural complex that was inaugurated in 1997 by Shankar Dayal sharma following the wishes of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acarya of ISKCON to promote Vedic culture and spiritual learning.

History of ISKCON in Bangalore

Around 1976, devotees from different parts of India and the world had initiated activities of ISKCON in different parts of South India like Bangalore, Hubli, Madras, etc. Sankirtans in the streets, enrolling Life Members, arranging programs in the houses, and arranging large public programs in pandals were being conducted.In May 1997, Bangalore Iskcon Temple was inaugurated by the then president of India - Shankar Dayal Sharma.

Features of the temple

There is a gold-plated dwajastambha (flag post) 17m (56 ft) high and a gold plated kalash shikara 8.5m (28 ft) high. There is free distribution of Sri Krishna prasadam to all visitors during the darshana hours.

ISKCON Temple Delhi

Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir or generally called as ISKCON Delhi temple is a famous Vaishnav temple of Lord Krishna and Radharani in the form of Radha Parthasarathi, Opened in 1998, it is located at Hare Krishna Hills, in the East of Kailash area of New Delhi, India.

Radha Parthasarathi, the premier deity of temple

ISKCON Temple, designed and built by Achyut Kanvinde who in 1993 agreed to accept a pro-bono commission to build this temple complex for the followers of Srila Prabhupada, is one of the largest temple complexes in India. It comprises numerous rooms for priests and for service renders. It has many halls that are used for its administration purposes. It is divided into four broad sections.

Worship of Lord

As Vaishnavism, ISKCON has very high standard of worship, daily routine of temple is:-

Twenty four brahmanically trained pujaris worship the Deities according to strict spiritual regulations, it also includes complete purity and auspiciousness of pujaris, mentioned by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada.
• six aratis are offered to the Deities everyday, which are as:

Mangala Aarti Tulsi Aarti Dhoop Aarti Raj-Bhoga Aarti Pushpa Aarti
1. Sandhya Aarti

Six bhoga offerings, corresponding to these six aratis, are made to the Deities.
• The outfits of the Deities are changed twice every day, morning and evening.

Outer View of Temple

ISKCON Temple, Delhi: The Grand Abode of Lord Krishna

Location: Hari Krishna Hill, East of Kailash, New Delhi One of the 40 temples belonging to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, the ISKCON Temple in Delhi was built in the year 1998. Located on the Hari Krishna Hill in the East of Kailash Area, it happens to be one of the most lavish temples in the capital. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna precisely and is also known as Sri Sri Radha Parthasarathi Mandir. The ISKCON temple was built by the devotees of the Hare Rama Hare Krishna cult to propagate the message of Srimad Bhagvad Gita. The ISKCON temple in Delhi stands as one of the largest temple complexes in India with a large number of rooms and halls. The architecture of the temple is a fine example of artistic splendor with "Shikharas" standing at height of 90 meters. The interiors of the temple have been beautifully decorated with works of Russian artists depicting the various phases of life of deities like Radha-Krishan and Sita-Ram. A special mention for the Central hall which houses exquisitely sculpted idols of Radha-Krishna and other deities. The heavenly sight of the hall provides spiritual enlightenment to the visitors. A feeling of peace and calm strikes the soul as soon as one enters the premises of the temple. The atmosphere inside is joyous and illuminating. Priests and devotees sway their arms up in the air and blissfully enchant the holy mantra "Hare Rama Hare Krishna". The best time to visit the temple is at the time of Aarti when the melodious chants and euphonious rhythm of the drums captivate your senses bringing you closer to God. Timings: The main hall is closed from 1pm-4pm; 9pm-4:30am Prayer timings: Morning Prayer time: 4.30 am, 7.15 am, 7.45 am Evening Prayer time: 12.30 pm, 7.00 pm, 7.45 pm Photography: Permission required from the temple authority Quick Info:

The temple propagates blessing for all the weary hearts irrespective of the caste and creed. Apart from the main hall the temple complex also houses a museum which runs multimedia shows to explain the epics Ramayana, Mahabharata and the verses from Bhagvad Gita. The temple also has a library of its own which has a huge collection of spiritual books. Govinda's restaurant in the temple complex offers amazing sattvik food i.e without onion and garlic.
• Grand celebrations are held at the time of Janamashtmi, the birth of Lord Krishna. It is truly exhilarating to be a part of this festival. Thousands of devotees gather at the temple and celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna with

Dwarakadheesh Temple

Dwarakadheesh Temple
The temple sikhars with the entrance in front
Dwarakadheesh Temple Location in Gujarat
Coordinates:	221416.39N 68583.22ECoordinates: 221416.39N 68583.22E
Name
Proper name:	Dwarkadheesh Mandir
Devanagari:
Bengali:
Location
Country:	India
State:	Gujarat
Locale:	Dwarka
Architecture and culture
Primary deity:	Dwarkadheesh Krishna
Important festivals:	Janmastami

The Dwarakadheesh temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here by the name Dwarkadhish, or 'King of Dwarka'. It is situated at Dwarka, Gujarat, which is believed to have been built after the historic Dvarka city, the Kingdom of Krishna which submerged into the ocean after the Mahabharata war. The main shrine of the 5-storied building, supported by 72 pillars, is known as Jagat Mandir or Nija Mandir, and is believed to be 2,500 years old. The Dwarkadhish Temple is a Pushtimarg temple, hence it follows the guidelines and rituals created by Shree Vallabhacharya and Shree Vitheleshnathji.

The present temple was built in 16th century CE, while the original temple was believed to have been built by Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, over the hari-griha (Lord Krishna's residential place). The temple became part of the Char Dham pilgrimage considered sacred by Hindus in India, after Adi Shankaracharya, the 8th century reformer and philosopher, visited the shrine. Even today a memorial within the temple is dedicated to his visit. Dwarakadheesh is the 108th Divya Desam of Lord Vishnu on the subcontinent, glorified in the Divya Prabandha sacred texts.

Etymology

The town of Dwaraka or Dwarka is the first part of the name while 'adi' or 'adee' means first and 'eesh' means lord. The total sum means the temple of Dwaraka's first lord.

History

The town of Dwarka in Gujarat has a history that dates back centuries, and is mentioned in the Mahabharat as the Dwaraka Kingdom. Situated on the banks of river Gomti, the city's legend for being the capital of Lord Krishna. The ancient city was submerged by raging sea waters eight times, but the remains have been found in underwater excavation by archeologists.^[1][2]

Architecture

A temple was built at the site around 400 BC by Vajranabhji, the great grandson of Lord Krishna, however the present structure was built during the 16th century in a typical Chalukyan style of architecture. The beautiful temple rises up to a height of 51.8 meters. Also known as the Jagat Mandir, the temple has two Sikhara. The Nij shikhar (The longer sikhar) denotes where the deity of Lord Dwarkadhish is installed. The huge temple consists of 60 exquisitely carved pillars and a number of sculptures that depict the influence of various dynasties such as the Guptas, Pallavas and Chavdas (referring to Chavda Kingdom) that ruled Dwarka over the years.

The entrance to the temple is from the north, also known as the Moksha Dwaar, while the entrance from the south is the Swarg Dwaar from where a series of steps leads down to the banks of river Gomti. According to legend, the temple was constructed in a single day by Vishwakarma, the lord of construction. The deity of Lord Dwarkadhish is made of shiny black stone and is about 2.25 ft in height. The four hands of the deity carry a conch, the Sudarshana Chakra, a mace and a lotus, and this image is popularly known as 'Shankh Chakra Gada Padma Chaturbhuj'. It is said that the idol was hidden for years to protect it from invaders while another idol was brought from the Rukmini temple and installed in its absence. The original idol was reinstalled during the 16th century after the construction of the new temple.

Temple specialties

Stairs leading up to the Main Entrance, of Dwarakadheesh temple, Dwarka

• The flag atop the temple shows the sun and moon.
• The flag is changed from 5 times a day, but the symbol remains the same.
• The pristine condition of the temple and an important discovery in its surroundings has led to the nomination of UNESCO World Heritage Site status to the temple.
• There are two styles of building a temple: the Dwarkadhish temple and Bet-Dwarka temple are built in Vaishnava style

Salient features

• The temple is a five-story structure built on seventy-two pillars.
• The temple spire is 78.3m high.
• The temple is constructed of limestone which is still in pristine condition.
• The temple shows intricate sculptural detailing done by successions of dynasties that ruled the region. The structure was not expanded much by these works.
• Lord Krishna's grandson, Vajranabha, is said to have built the original temple of Dwarkadhish over the hari-griha (Lord Krishna's residential place).
• The sanctum of the temple is formed by the Jagat Mandir, or Nija Mandir, dating back at least 2500 years.
• The Jagat Mandir has a tall tower and a hall of audience.
• There are two entrances to the temple. The main entrance (north entrance) is called "Moksha Dwara" (Door to Salvation). This entrance takes one to the main market. The south entrance is called "Swarga Dwara" (Gate to Heaven).
• Outside this doorway are 56 steps that leads to the Gomati River.

Char Dham

The temple is considered one of the holiest Hindu Char Dham (four divine sites) sites, comprising Rameswaram, Badrinath, Puri and Dwarka.^[3] Though the origins are not clearly known, the Advaita school of Hinduism established by Sankaracharya, who created Hindu monastic institutions across India, attributes the origin of Char Dham to the seer.^[4] The four monasteries are located across the four corners of India and their attendant temples are Badrinath Temple at Badrinath in the North, Jagannath Temple at Puri in the East, Dwarakadheesh Temple at Dwarka in the West and Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameswaram in the South. Though ideologically the temples are divided between the sects of Hinduism, namely Saivism and Vaishnavism, the Char Dham pilgrimage is an all Hindu affair.^[5] There are four abodes in Himalayas called Chota Char Dham (Chota meaning small): Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri - all of these lie at the foot hills of Himalayas.^[4] The name Chota was added during the mid of 20th century to differentiate the original Char Dhams. As the number of pilgrims increased to these places in modern times, it is called Himalayan Char Dham.^[6] The journey across the four cardinal points in India is considered sacred by Hindus who aspire to visit these temples once in their lifetime.^[7] Traditionally the trip starts are the eastern end from Puri, proceeding in clockwise direction in a manner typically followed for circuambulation in Hindu temples.^[7]

Khatushyam

KhatuShyam
Idol of Lord Krishna in Khatushyam temple
KhatuShyam Location of Khatushyam temple in Rajasthan
Coordinates:	27220N 75240ECoordinates: 27220N 75240E
Name
Other names:
Location
Country:	India
State:	Rajasthan
District:	Sikar
Location:	Khatushyam
Temple Details
Primary Deity:	Lord Krishna
Important festivals:	Falgun Festival
History
Creator:	King Roopsingh Chauhan
Website:	www.khatushyam.in

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 Barbarka is often replaced in Rajasthan by the Hindi version, Barbark, 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

Barbarika worshipped as KhatuShyam.

The legend begins with the Mahbhrata. 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 Mahbhrata 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 Parikshit, he loses 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

Barbarika donates his head to Krishna.

The guised Krishna then sought charity from Babarika. Barbarika promised him anything he wished. Krishna asked him to give his head in charity. Barbarika was shocked. Perceiving that all was not as it appeared, he requested the Brahmin to disclose his real identity. Krishna showed Barbarika a vision of His Divine Form and Barbarika was thus graced. Krishna then explained to him that before a battle, the head of the bravest Kshatriya needs to be sacrificed, in order to worship/sanctify the battlefield. Krishna said that he considered Barbarika to be the bravest among Kshatriyas, and was hence asking for his head in charity. In fulfilment of his promise, and in compliance with the Krishna's command, Barbarika gave his head to him in charity. This happened on the 12th day of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of the month of phaagun on Tuesday.

Why Lord Krishna asks for Barbareek's head

This was because lord krishna knew that if lord barbareek fights in the favour of karovas,pandavas will definitely lose so thus as he wanted pandavas to win he asked barbareek for his head

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 "
• Baliya Dev: Literally: " Dev with super power ; newly born children are blessed in the temple located in Vasna, Ahmedbad, Gujarat.

Temple

After the Mahbhrata 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.

His another temple is located at Vasna, Ahmedabad, Gujarat where people are coming with their newly born child to have blessings of Khatushyam. Here he is known as Baliya Dev.

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.^{[citation needed]}

Two special hymns, the "Shri Shyam Aarti" and the "Shri Shyam Vinati," are chanted on all these occasions. The Shyam mantra is another litany of the Lord's names that is chanted by devotees.

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.

Administration and amenities

The Public Trust that has charge of the temple is registered under registration No. 3/86. A 7-member committee oversees the management of the temple. A number of Dharmashalas (charity lodges) are available for their comfortable stay. The temple timings are as follows:

• In winter (Ashvin bahula 1st to Chaitra shuddha 15th): 5.30 am - 1.00 pm and 4.00 pm - 9.00 pm.
• In summer (Vaishakha bahula 1st to Bhadrapada shuddha 15th): 4.30 am - 12.30 pm and 4.00 pm - 10.00 pm.

The temple is open 24 hours a day on every Shukla Paksha Ekadasi, i.e., on the 11th day of the bright half of every month in the Hindu calendar. The temple is also open throughout the 4-day Phalgun Mela.

Krishna Cave Temple

Krishna Cave Temple Krishna Mandapam
Entrance to the Krishna Mandapa, 2006
Krishna Cave Temple Krishna Mandapam Location of
Coordinates:	12.6167N 80.1917ECoordinates: 12.6167N 80.1917E
Name
Other names:	Mandapa of Krishna Krishna Mandapam
Location
Country:	India
State:	Tamil Nadu
District:	Kancheepuram district
Location:	Mamallapuram
Temple Details
Primary Deity:	Lord Krishna
Architecture and culture
Number of temples:	1
Inscriptions:	Incribed in 1984 under Asia-Pacific of UNESCO
History
Date built:	Mid-7th century
Creator:	Pallava dynasty

Krishna Cave Temple (also known as Mandapa of Krishna^[1] and Krishna Mandapam^[2]) is a monument at Mahabalipuram, on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, in the Kancheepuram district of the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is an artificial rock-cut mandapa, and one of the Cave Temples of Mahabalipuram dedicated to Lord Krishna. Part of the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 1984.^[1] It is one of the many architecturally distinctive mandapas in Mahabalipuram with a shallow cave portico hewn into the rock face.^[3] Dating to the mid-seventh century, its excavated entry is seen with columns leading to a hall. Notable carvings inside are sculpted panels that bring out the myth of Krishna lifting the Govardhana Hill to protect the cowherds and gopis (milk maids) from heavy rains and floods - the "most poetic and endearing" Indian or Angkor sculpture-based representation of this legend^[4] - and there are also scenes of Krishna frolicking with the milk maids.^[5][6]

Geography

The Krishna Cave Temple is located in Mamallpurma (also popularly and officially known as Mahabalipuram), a small village 30 kilometres (19 mi) to the south of Chennai, in Kancheepuram district on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal in the state of Tamil Nadu.^[7] The rock-cut cave is located on a hillock next to the open rock cut bas-relief of Descent of the Ganges (Mahabalipuram).^[8]

History

General view of the entrance to the Krishna Mandapa, 1885

The Krishna Mandapa is an example of Indian rock-cut architecture dating from the mid 7th century, of the Pallava dynasty. This rock-cut cave temple is a testimony to ancient Vishwakarma Sthapathis (sculptors). Originally an open-air bas-relief, it was enclosed within a mandapa or cave during the 16th century during the Vijayanagara Empire.^[7]

Layout

The Krishna Cave facing east has a length of 29 feet (8.8 m) and height of 12 feet (3.7 m). It is a pillared mandapa.^[9]

Architecture

A relief on the rock face of Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill in the Krishna Mandapa

The rock-cut cave is simple in design and layout, with minimum decorations. It is one of the ten caves cut out from rock faces and one of the oldest in Mahabalipuram. In creating the cave, the sculptors worked on the rock face to make an outline and polished the rock face to define the outline of a faade. This was followed by the cutting of columns in the polished surface and creating square panels on which frescoes on religious themes of the Hindu pantheon were carved. Chisel was the basic tool used to first draw incised outlines with projections to be carved at the later stage of sculpting. The depth was dictated by the number of chambers to be excavated through the rock. The carving of images was then started after polishing the walls and the columns.^[8]

Another view of Krishna Cave Temple adjoining the Arjuna's Penance bas-relief

The cave has nine reliefs carved on the rock surfaces, all dated to the 7th century but further refurbished with additions made in the 16th century. One prominent relief depicts Krishna lifting the mythical Govardhana Hill on the finger of his left hand to save the people from a deluge caused by rains showered by Indra. People with their cattle are shown taking shelter under the mountain. The myth related to this depiction is linked to Indra. Indra was annoyed with the people of the village (now Mathura) as they had discontinued celebration of a festival in his honour. He created a huge storm with heavy rainshowers, threatening the life of the villagers. Krishna, who was from the same village, lifted the Govardhana Hill (near Mathura), creating an umbrella of protection and saving the village, its people, and the cowherds. In this fresco, Krishna is flanked by three females to his right; one of them is inferred as Radha, his childhood lover, as she is shown wearing a kirita makuta crown, a breast band, and many ornaments. On his right stand two figures, one male and one female. In addition, there are several other images in the panel of animals and village folk.^[9][10]

In another fresco, Krishna is shown in a joyous mood with his gopis (milkmaids), a reflection of his double role as a divine being.^{[10][11][12][11]} Other frescoes carved on the walls of the cave depict: an elderly person carrying a child on his shoulders, a village scene of cowherds milking a cow with the cow licking the calf; the gopis with water pots on their heads amidst a cowherd playing a flute; a woodcutter walking with an axe and a lady carrying a milk pot and a rolled mat or bundle of grass; and a child hugging her mother.^[10] Krishna's fresco also shows him playing a flute in the fields. The panel further depicts a standing bull, which is perfectly carved by the Pallava artists. In particular, the carvings in the Krishna cave are reported to be very realistic reinterpretations of Hindu mythological themes.^[13]

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple Location in Kerala
Coordinates:	91940N 764118ECoordinates: 91940N 764118E
Location
Country:	India
State:	Kerala
District:	Pathanamthitta
Location:	Aranmula
Temple Details
Primary Deity:	Parthasarathy (Vishnu)
Poets:	Nammalvar
Architecture and culture
Architectural styles:	Dravidian architecture

The Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is one of the "Divya Desams", the 108 temples of Vishnu revered by the 12 poet saints, or Alwars^[1] located near Aranmula, a village in Pathanamthitta District, Kerala, South India.

Aranmula Uthrattathi Boat Race

The temple is dedicated to Parthasarathy, Lord Krishna's role as Arjuna's Charioteer in the Mahabharatha war.^[2] The temple is on the left bank of the Pampa River. The sacred jewels of Ayyappan (Thiruvabharanam) are taken in procession to Sabarimalai each year from Pandalam, and Aranmula Temple is one of the stops on the way. Also, the Thanka Anki (golden attire) for Ayyappa, donated by the king of Travancore, is stored here and taken to Shabarimala during the Mandala season (late December). Aranmula is also known for the watersports involving a spectacular procession of snake boats. It is also linked with legends from the Mahabharata.

It is one of the most important Krishna temples in Kerala, the others being at Guruvayur, Trichambaram, Tiruvarppu and Ambalappuzha.

Also, it is one of the five ancient shrines in the Chengannur area of Kerala, connected with the Mahabharata. The Thrichittat templeChengannur is related to Yuddhishtra; the Tiruppuliyur temple to Bheema; Aranmula to Arjuna; thiruvanvandoor to Nakula and Tirukkadittaanam to Sahadeva). It has been glorified by the Tamil hymns of Nammalwar of the 1st millennium CE.

The temple has four towers over its entrances on its outer wall. The eastern tower is accessed through a flight of 18 steps. Descending 57 steps through the northern tower, one can reach the Pampa River.

Mahabharata legends

Legend has it that the Pandava princes, after crowning Parikshit left on a pilgrimage of India, and in Kerala, each of these brothers installed Vishnu on the banks of the Pampa and nearby places and offered worship. (Chengannur,Thrichittattu - Yuddhishtra, Tiruppuliyur - Bheema, Aranmula - Arjuna, Thiruvanvandur - Nakula and Tirukkodithanam - Sahadeva). It is said that Arjuna built this temple at Nilackal near Sabarimalai. and the image was brought here in a raft made of six pieces of bamboo to this site, and hence the name Aranmula (six pieces of bamboo).

Legend has it that Arjuna built this temple, to expiate for the sin of having killed Karna on the battlefield, against the dharma of killing an unarmed enemy. It is also believed that Vishnu (here) revealed the knowledge of creation to Bhrama, from whom the Madhukaitapa demons stole the Vedas.

There is yet another legend associated with Parthasarathy here. On the ninth day of the battle of Kurukshetra, the Kauravas reigned supreme under the leadership of Bheeshma, when Krishna motivated Arjuna to take initiative and vanquish his foe. Upon his hesitating to do so, Krishna jumped down in rage, and took up his discus; seeing this sight Bheeshma surrendered to him and Arjuna beseeched him not to kill Bheeshma, as it would bave been against Krishna's vow to take up arms in his battle. It is believed that it is this image of Krishna that is enshrined here, with a discus. Aranmula Mirror is also very much related to the history of this temple

Festivities

The water carnivals taking place at the temple include a boat race during the Onam season. A tradition of sending an offering of rice and other material required for a feast from a nearby village, on a waterboat relates to the origin of this festival and this tradition is continued even today (this is related to a legend in which a devotee fed a hungry pilgrim, who directed him to send food to Aranmula and disappeared, revealing that he was none other than Vishnu).

Snake boats accompany the sacred boat. The boat race: Snake boats from 39 Karas^{[disambiguation needed]} from Chennithala in the west to Ranni in the east participate in the watersport Vallomkali. These boats assemble at dawn and sail in pairs for about 2 hours. A snake boat is about 103 feet in length. Each boat has about 4 helmsmen 100 rowers and 25 singers. After the watersport there is an elaborate feast in the Aranmula temple.

Another festival celebrated here is the Khandavanadahanam celebrated in the Malayalam month of Dhanus. For this festival, a replica of a forest is created in front of the temple with dried plants, leaves and twigs. This bonfire is lit, symbolic of the Khandavana forest fire of the Mahabharata.

The Malayalam month of Meenam witnesses a festival where Aranmula Parthasarathy is taken in a grand procession on the garuda mount to the Pampa river bank, where an image of the Bhagawati from the nearby Punnamthode temple is brought in procession for the arattu festival.

Bhaktivedanta Manor (ISKCON)
Bhaktivedanta Manor in Watford. This was donated by George Harrison (One of the Beatles)
Location
Country:	England
Place:	Watford
Postcode:	WD25 8EZ
Temple Information

Bhaktivedanta Manor is a Gaudiya Vaishnava temple set in the Hertfordshire countryside of England in the village of Aldenham near Watford. The Manor, as it is called by those familiar with it, is owned and run by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, better known as ISKCON, or the Hare Krishna movement. It is ISKCON's largest property in the UK, and one of the most frequently visited Radha Krishna temples in Europe. It stands in 70 acres (280,000 m²) of landscaped grounds consisting of lawns, flower gardens, a children's playground, an artificial lake that attracts many water fowl, and a substantial car park.

The property was converted from a country mansion called Piggott's Manor, the name that still shows on older maps.

In 1973, Beatles musician George Harrison gave the Manor as an offering of devotion to the founder of ISKCON, A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.Harrison had a close relationship with Prabhupada and met and stayed with him on several occasions. "Bhaktivednta" is Sanskrit for "devotion-Vedanta", that is, "the Vedanta which is about devotion".

Harrison said he envisaged that the Manor would be a "guide to Krishna consciousness"^] and "A place where people could get a taste of the splendor of devotional service to the Supreme Lord".

On the 40th anniversary of Bhaktivedanta Manor 'The George Harrison Memorial Garden' will be officially opened to the public with George's widow Olivia Harrison in attendance.