Shrinathji Temple, Nathdwara, Rajasthan

About the TempleShrinathji Temple was built during the 17th century and it is consecrated to Lord Shrinathji. The temple is nestled in Nathdwara town on the banks of Benas river. Nathdwara literally means the gate of God. Shrinathji Temple is also known as 'Haveli of Shrinathji’. The temple was built in 1672 by Goswami priests.

Here Lord Krishna is worshiped as Lord Shrinathji. The idol is made out of a single black marble. Lord Shrinathji is seen with his left hand raised, the right hand made into a fist and resting at the waist, with a large diamond placed on the chin. The idol is accompanied by the images of cows, a lion, a snake, peacocks, a parrot and three Sages. The divine form of Shrinathji is said to be self-manifested.

Temple History and Temple ArchitectureOn the top of the temple, a shikhara with a Kalash along with seven flags and a Sudarshana Chakra can be seen. The seven flags represent the 7 'houses' of Pushti Marg or Vallabh Sampradaya. Shrinathji is considered as Thakorji or Lord of the House or Haveli. The Haveli has a chariot, a storehouse for milk, a storehouse for betel, a storeroom for sugar and sweets, a storehouse for flowers, a kitchen, a jewellery chamber, a treasury, a stable for horses of the chariot and a drawing room.

Temple LegendAccording to a legend, Shrinathji used to travel to Mewar to play dice with the Princess. She used to get sad whenever Shrinathji would go back to Braj. Hence, she requested Shrinathji to stay in her palace. Lord Shrinathji said that he would make her palace his abode. At present, This palace serves as the temple of Lord Shrinathji.

The temple has a story behind its establishment. The idol of Lord Shrinathji was enshrined in Vrindavan. In 1672, Rana Raj Singh made an effort to protect the idol from the Mughal invaders. Later, when the idol was being shifted to another place suddenly, the wheel of the vehicle sank down in the mud and could not be moved further. The priest declared that this was the chosen spot by Lord. Hence, a temple was built on the same spot.

Festivals, Pujas and Celebrations

Festivals like Janmashtami, Holi and Diwali are celebrated in a grand manner.

The main attractions are the daily Aarti and the Shringar, the dressing and beautifying of Shrinathji.

Annakutta is another major festival that is observed in the temple with passion.

How to reach

By Road: Buses and taxies are available from Udaipur to reach the temple.

By Train: The nearest railway stations are Mavli Junction which is 38 km away from the temple and Udaipur which is 41 km away from the temple.

By Air: The nearest airport is at Dabok which is about 52 km away.

Read More..