Indian Temples: Shree Krishna Janmasthan – Mathura, Uttar Pradesh- Highlights

 


Shree Krishna Janmasthan – Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Introduction

Shree Krishna Janmasthan (or Krishna Janmabhoomi) is one of the most revered temples in Hinduism, located in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna—the 8th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This holy complex is considered the spiritual heart of Mathura and a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Krishna and Vaishnavism.

The Janmasthan temple is built over what is believed to be the prison cell (Karagar) where Devaki gave birth to Krishna, under the cruel rule of King Kansa.

History in Detail

  • The significance of the site dates back over 5,000 years to the Dwapar Yuga, when Krishna was born here.

  • The original temple is believed to have been built soon after Krishna’s death by his great-grandson Vajranabh.

  • Over centuries, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times:

    • 2nd century BCE – Temple believed to be in existence during the Shunga period.
    • 4th–6th century CE – Rebuilt during the Gupta dynasty.
    • 1017 CE – Destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni.
    • 16th century – Rebuilt by Vijay Singh of Orchha.
    • 1669 CE – Again destroyed by Aurangzeb, who built the Shahi Eidgah Mosque adjacent to the site.

  • The current temple complex was reconstructed in 1953–1982, thanks to the efforts of industrialist Jugal Kishore Birla and the Krishna Janmasthan Seva Sansthan.

Religious Significance

  • This temple is considered the actual birthplace of Lord Krishna, inside a prison cell (Garbhagriha) beneath the current structure.

  • It is believed that divine light spread through the world at Krishna’s birth at this site.

  • Devotees from across the world visit during:

    • Janmashtami (Krishna’s birth celebration)
    • Holi
    • Radhashtami
    • Gita Jayanti
    • Diwali

  • The temple is one of the most sacred Vaishnavite shrines, central to Bhagavata Purana and Mahabharata traditions.

Temple Details (Architecture and Features)

  • The main complex consists of:

    • Garbha Griha (Prison cell): The sanctum sanctorum where Krishna is believed to have been born.
    • Keshavdev Temple: Dedicated to Lord Krishna in his form as Keshav.
    • Bhagavata Bhavan: A large hall for discourse and prayer.
    • Museum: Exhibits ancient artifacts, sculptures, manuscripts, and icons from Mathura’s rich history.

  • The architecture is a blend of modern Hindu temple style, using red sandstone and white marble, and rich carvings of Krishna Leela (life events).

  • The entire complex is heavily guarded due to its proximity to the mosque and its historical-political sensitivity.

Timings

  • Summer (April – October):

    • Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    • Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM

  • Winter (November – March):

    • Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    • Evening: 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM

  • Aarti Timings (approximate):

    • Mangala Aarti – 5:30 AM
    • Shringar Aarti – 7:30 AM
    • Rajbhog Aarti – 12:00 PM
    • Sandhya Aarti – 6:30 PM

Janmashtami celebrations go on all night, with midnight Krishna Janmotsav, bhajans, and Abhishekam.

Connectivity

  • Location: Deeg Gate, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh – near the Yamuna River.

By Rail:

  • Mathura Junction – ~3 km
    (Connected to all major cities like Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, and Mumbai)

🚌 By Road:

  • Mathura is well connected by NH-19 and NH-44.
  • Local autos, rickshaws, and buses ply frequently.

 By Air:

  • Agra Airport – ~60 km
  • Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) – ~170 km
    (Delhi–Mathura by road or train is popular)

Nearby Religious and Cultural Spots

  • Dwarkadhish Temple (Lord Krishna)
  • Yamuna Ghat and Vishram Ghat
  • Gita Mandir
  • Rangji Temple
  • Govardhan Hill (nearby)
  • Vrindavan – just 12 km away (Banke Bihari Temple, ISKCON, Prem Mandir)

Legacy

  • Shree Krishna Janmasthan is more than a temple—it is a symbol of divine incarnation, justice, and dharma.

  • It reflects the enduring legacy of Krishna Bhakti, celebrated through art, music, dance, literature, and ritual.

  • Despite invasions and destruction, the spiritual power of the site has remained intact, drawing millions of pilgrims annually.

  • The temple stands as a testament to devotion, resilience, and faith, anchoring Mathura as one of the seven sacred Mokshapuris in Hinduism.



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