Shrinathji Temple is one of the most revered shrines
of Lord Krishna. Located at Nathdwara in Rajasmand district, Shrinathji
Mandir is easily accessible from anywhere in Rajasthan. Nathdwara is
small town that is truly famous for this temple. Shrinathji lies at a
distance of 48 kms from Udaipur, the city of lakes in Rajasthan. Udaipur
is well-connected to the major cities of the country by road, rail and
air. From Udaipur, one can take regular buses or hire taxis in order to
reach Nathdwara.
Built in the 17th century, Shrinathji Temple is dedicated to Lord
Shrinathji (form of Lord Krishna). 'Haveli of Shrinathji' is the
synonymous phrase used for Shrinathji Temple. The word 'Nathdwara' is
made up of two terms, one being 'Nath' that means 'the Lord' and the
other is 'Dwara', which suggests 'gate'. Thus, Nathdwara implies the
'gate of the lord'. Shrinathji forms an important pilgrimage site for
the Vaishnavites.
Like other temples of India, Shrinathji Temple also has a story behind
its foundation. As per the story, the idol of Shrinathji was consecrated
in Vrindavan (land related to Lord Krishna). In the 17th century,
Aurangzeb attacked the Hindu temples in rant and rave. To safeguard the
idol of Shrinathji, many Rajput rulers tried their best, but all in
vain. In 1672, Rana Raj Singh made an effort to liberate the idol from
the monarchy of Aurangzeb.
It is believed that when the idol was being transferred to an
unapproachable place, the wheel of the cart sank deep down in the mud at
a particular place. The escorting priest perceived that this place has
been chosen by the Lord himself. Consequently, the temple was
constructed on the same spot. The temple is built in simple terms of
architecture, yet the divine aura of this temple is eternal.
The striking idol of Shrinathji gets the major attraction and is
actually worth seeing. A glimpse of Lord makes one to feel the aesthetic
world. Shrinathji represents the form of Lord Krishna, when he raised
the 'Govardhana' (a hill). Made out in black stone, the image of the
Lord appears majestic with his left hand raised and the right hand
confined in a fist. The Lord's chin is adorned with a dazzling diamond,
which is visible from a distance.
Shrinathji Temple is one amongst the richest temples of India. It
receives millions of rupees as offering to the Lord. The temple
authorities possess approximately 500 cows and the milk of these cows,
is used for the preparation of sweets and milk products. Among these
cows, there is one cow that is considered as Shrinathji's cow. This cow
is believed to have come from the lineage, which served the Lord from
ages.
Formerly, the temple used to receive wagon-loads of food and these were
whispered to be consigned by and consigned to Lord Shrinathji. The
temple has food-grinders made of gold and silver. It is also said to
have four wells of 'Desi Ghee'. The huge temple complex is divided into
many sections, like the main shrine, food, Prasad, Priests' lodges and
stiching department, where tailors stitch marvelous dresses of
Shrinathji.
During the festivities of Holi, Diwali and Janmashtami, devotees come in
large numbers. Besides Holi and Janmashtami, Annakutta is a major
festival that is observed here with a whole-hearted passion. Non-Hindus
are allowed to visit this temple, however with the exception of
foreigners. Undoubtedly, Shrinathji Temple is a place worth-visiting and
feeling the spiritual delight.
