Dwarka Temple

When it comes to spirituality, Dwarka, a historical and holy city in the state of Gujarat, has a mystical atmosphere that stretches back thousands of years. It is well-known for the famed Jagat Mandir or Dwarkadheesh shrine, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and serves as the presiding deity of the temple premises. On the occasion of the festival of Janmashtami, this isolated pilgrimage location is almost overwhelmed by the large number of pilgrims that go there to get a sight of the 'Dwarkadheesh' or 'King of Dwarka,' Lord Krishna dressed in his royal regalia. It is not the innocent Bal Krishna (child lord) or the joke-loving cowherd who is shown in the temple of Dwarka, but rather the great King Krishna in his adult years that is depicted in the temple. Lord Vishnu's eighth incarnation is represented by this regal incarnation of the lord.

The Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir), which is the major attraction for visitors visiting in Dwarka, Lord Krishna's great-grandson, is claimed to have erected a temple more than 2500 years ago, according to legend, Vajranabh, and is the most visited attraction in the city. The old temple has been restored multiple times, with the 16th and 19th centuries being the most notable periods of influence. The temple is placed on a small hill that can only be accessed by ascending more than 50 stairs from the ground level to the top. Its elaborately sculptured walls surround the sanctuary, which contains the primary Krishna deity. Other tiny shrines may be found all over the compound. The mythological figures and tales that adorn the walls are skillfully carved. In the center of the temple's spectacular 43-meter-high tower is a flag constructed from 52 yards of fabric, which flutters gently in the gentle wind from the Arabian Sea, which is visible behind the temple. The entrance and egress of the temple are both accessed via two doors, i.e., the "swarg & moksha". One may cross the Gomti stream towards the beach through a bridge called Sudama Setu, which is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4-7.30 p.m. at the foot of the temple.

History

Dwarka, located on the western point of the Kathiawar Peninsula, is included in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit, which also includes the holy cities of Badrinath, Puri, and Rameshwaram. It is claimed that Lord Krishna came to this location from Braj in Uttar Pradesh in order to construct the city. His grandson was responsible for the establishment of the temple. It is situated near the confluence of the Gomti River and the Arabian Sea, giving a picturesque background to the spiritual location. Dwarka is claimed to have been drowned beneath the sea six times, and what we are seeing right now is the city's seventh and final incarnation. The temple itself is the subject of intriguing mythology. The ancient edifice was demolished by Mahmud Begada in 1472, and a new structure was erected in the 15th-16th centuries to replace it. It was also praised by Adi Shankaracharya, a Hindu theologian, and philosopher who lived in the eighth century.

Structure

Stone and sand were used to construct the fascinating temple. Its imposing five-story tower is supported by 72 pillars and topped with an artistically carved spire that rises to a height of 78.3 meters. Shikhar, an artistically carved eagle with a flag fashioned from 52 yards of fabric, flies 42 meters above the ground. The sun and moon motifs on the flag represent Lord Krishna's dominion over the temple, which will continue as long as the sun and moon are visible in the sky. The two entrances, Swarg Dwar (through which pilgrims enter) and Moksha Dwar (through which pilgrims escape), add to the magnificence of the temple, which consists of a vestibule, sanctuary, and a rectangular hall with porches on each side. There are 56 stairs leading down to the shores of the Gomti river from the south entryway of the structure.

Legends:

Rukmini's Shrine On a strip of land that was recovered from the sea, it is said that Krishna constructed the city of Dwarka. When the sage Durvasa paid a visit to Krishna and his wife Rukmini, he expressed a strong desire to see their mansion. Rukmini became fatigued as they were on their way and begged for a drink of water. By creating a mythological hole, Krishna was able to bring the Ganga to the location where they were standing. Rukmini was forced to stay where she was by Sage Durvasa, who was enraged by this. The site is presently used as a shrine inside the temple.

An idol of Lord Dwarkadhish Dwarkadhish's devotee Badana traveled to the temple from Dakor on a daily basis. Lord Dwarkadhish was pleased with her devotion and accompanied her to Dakor. In order to reclaim the Idol, Badana was pursued by the Shrine's priest, who was outraged at her behavior. In return for riches, Badana was able to persuade the priests of the Idol, who accepted his offer. Due to Badana's generosity, Lord Dwarkadhish performed a miracle, and, to everyone's surprise, the Idol was little more than a nose ring. On top of that, the lord persuaded the priests that they would one day come across a copy of the Idol. In Dwarka, there is an idol that has not yet grown.

Visiting Timings

This temple in Gujarat, located near the mouth of the Gomti river, is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. More than 2500 years have elapsed since it was constructed, and it remains the most popular tourist destination all year. October through March is a good time to come since the weather stays nice during the winter months.

You may pay a visit to the temple during the festival of Janmashtami in September to experience the ancient ceremonies and celebrations that take place there.