Post by bhoomibazaar on Apr 5, 2015 13:20:26 GMT -5
South of Delhi, near the place of Krishna's birth, is the town of 5,000 temples where the sounds of celebration constantly resound. Vrindavan is the sacred playground of lord krishna, where krishna ji performed his lovable acts of childhood in the company of his dearest childhood sakhi shri radha ji, and left the most vivid impressions of his presence in this blessed land called the brij bhumi. In some ways, it has retained the characteristics of a village with its narrow streets and many cows that wander around freely. visit: BhoomiBazaar
Vrindavan is such a pious place where the flower of devotion can bloom fully. In Braj, there is no spot at all which is not related to the pastimes of Radha and Krishna. Here one views the pastimes of Radha and Krishna in the literature, culture, music and the devotional atmosphere The essence of Vrindavan is presented in the enchanting sagas of Radha and Krishna. They stand as a timeless beacon – that sheds a wonderful light that has endured through the centuries and even still today, fascinating people from the world over.
when lord krishna was leaving for mathura to free his parents from the prison of kansa, lord krishna dearest soul mate shri radha ji had taken a promise from lord krishna that he will never leave vrindavan ever. living up to his promise, lord krishna has always resided in vrindavan ever since. and even today, most blessed are with the " darsan " of shri banke bihari in vrindavan.
According to the Scriptures, "Shri Krishn never sets His foot outside Vrindavan." In the Garga Samhita it is mentioned that, "My heart will not be at pleasure where there is no Vrindavan, no Yamuna, no Govardhan.” According to the Holy Scriptures, Vrindavan is the forest of Tulasi (Vrinda). It is stated in the Padma Purana "wherever there is a Tulasi Garden, there also exists the association of Krishn. In that place, all the Gods, including Brahma and Laxmi, come to offer worship to Krishna, the Supreme Lord, in His abode" Bhakti Devi was captivated by contacts with Vrindavan, hence the greatest of glories to Shri Vrindavan Dham where Bhakti is dancing everywhere."
The most popular temples include:
Madan Mohan Temple
located near the Kali Ghat was built by Kapur Ram Das of Multan. This is the oldest temple in Vrindavan. The temple is closely associated with the saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Garud Govind Temple
is located on the turn of NH-2 to Vrindavan in Chhatikara village. This temple is one of the most ancient temples of the Brij and according to purans, main deity was incarnated by great grandson of lord Krishna, shri Bajranabh ji after the order of his Kulguru shri Gargachary. This is also one of the rarest temples of Garud ji, which is famous for 'Kalsarp Anushthan'.
Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir
is the world's tallest temple under-construction at Vrindavan. At cost of INR300 crore it will be one of the most expensively built temple in world by ISKCON.
Banke Bihari Temple
built in 1862 is the most popular shrine at Vrindavan. The image of Banke-Bihari was discovered in Nidhi Vana by Swami Haridas, the great Krishna devotee, belonging to the Nimbarka sampradaya.
Prem Mandir
is the most beautiful and clean, religious and spiritual complex situated on a 54-acre site on the outskirts of Vrindavan, is one of the newest temples dedicated to Divine Love. The temple structure was established by spiritual guru Kripalu Maharaj. The main structure built in marble looks incredibly beautiful and is an educational monument that reflects the true history of Sanatana Dharma. Figures of Shri Krishna and his followers depicting important events surrounding the Lord’s existence cover the main temple.
Radha Vallabh Temple
set up by the Radha-Vallabh sampradaya, through Sri Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu, has the crown of Radharani placed next to the Shri Krishna image in the sanctum.
Jaipur Temple
which was built by Sawai Madho Singh II, the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1917, is a richly embellished and opulent temple. The fine hand-carved sandstone is of unparalleled workmanship. The temple is dedicated to Shri Radha Madhava.
Sri Radha Raman Mandir
constructed at the request of Gopala Bhatta Goswami around 1542 is one of the most exquisitely crafted and revered temples of Vrindavan, especially by the Goswamis. It still houses the original saligram deity of Krishna as Radha Ramana, alongside Radharani.
Shahji Temple
another popular temple at Vrindavan, was designed and built in 1876 by a wealthy jeweller, Shah Kundan Lal of Lucknow. The deities (images) at the temple are popularly known as the Chhote Radha Raman. Noted for its magnificent architecture and beautiful marble sculpture, the temple has twelve spiral columns each 15 feet high. The 'Basanti Kamra' – the darbar hall is famed for its Belgian glass chandeliers and fine paintings.
Rangaji Temple
built in 1851 is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha or Rangaji depicted as Lord Vishnu in his sheshashayi pose, resting on the coils of the sacred Sesha Naga. The temple built in the Dravidian style (as a replica of Srivilliputhur) has a tall gopuram (gateway), of six storeys and a gold-plated Dhwaja stambha, 50 feet high. A water tank and a picturesque garden lie within the temple enclosure. The annual festival of Jal Vihar of the presiding deity is performed with great pomp and splendour at the tank. The temple is also famous for its 'Brahmotsdav' celebration in March–April, more popularly known as the 'Rath ka Mela'. The ten-day-long celebrations are marked by the pulling of the rath (the chariot car) by the devotees from the temple to the adjoining gardens. The prayers within the temple are performed, following in the style of Andal, one of the twelve Vaishnava Saints of South India.
Govind Dev Temple
was once a magnificent seven storeyed structure built in the form of a Greek cross. It is said that the Emperor Akbar donated some of the red sandstone that had been brought for the Red Fort at Agra, for the construction of this temple. Built at the astronomical cost of one crore rupees in 1590 by his general Raja Man Singh, the temple combines western, Hindu and Muslim architectural elements in its structure. It was destroyed by Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.
Sri Krishna-Balarama Temple
built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in a location known as 'Raman-Reti', is one of the most beautiful temples in Vrindavan today. The principal deities of this temple are Krishna and Balaram, with Radha–Shyamasundar and Gaura-Nitai alongside. Adjoining the temple is the samadhi of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON, built in pure white marble.
Radha Damodar Mandir
The Mandir was established in 1542 by Srila Jiva Goswami. The deities Sri Sri Radha–Damodar are here. The bhajan kutir of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is also situated at the Mandir.
Shri Maa Katyayani Mandir
The temple is situated in Radha Bagh, near Rangnath mandir. This is one of suddh Shakti Peetha of Shakti.
Chintaharan Hanuman Mandir, temple of Lord Hanuman is situated near Atalvan.
Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Temple
In Vrindavan, the "Lila Sthan" (the place of the divine passion play) of Lord Krishna, lies the temple that is a must visit destination for devotees completing the 84 kosh Vraj Parikrama Yatra. The temple is centuries old and is the first Indian temple that is dedicated to the divine couple and their Ashta Sakhi’s - the eight "companions" of Radha who were intimately involved in her love play with the Lord Krishna. The Ashta Sakhis are mentioned in the ancient texts of Puranas and the Bhagavata Purana. The temple is called Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Mandir and it is home to the divine Rasa Lila of Lord Krishna and Radharani. It is located in close proximity to the Shri Banke Behari Mandir. Legend has it that the Shree Radha Rasa Behari Ashta Sakhi Mandir is one of the two places in Mathura, Vrindavan where the Lord Krishna actually indulges in the Rasa Lila with his beloved Radha and her sakhis. On these nights, devotees have reported hearing the sound of the anklets, beating in tune to a divine melody.
Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple
was built by Mahamandaleshwar Mahant Sri Krsna Balaram Swamiji from Vrindavan. This newly constructed Radha Govinda Temple, completed in 2004 is based on a famous historic temple built about 500 years ago by Srila Rupa Goswami, a direct Sanyasi disciple of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Sri Vrindavan-Chandra Mandir
located some ninety miles southeast of Delhi, is a replica of that supreme Goloka Vrindavana in the spiritual sky. It was inaugurated in 2006 on the most auspicious day of Sri Rama Navami day. The temple is housed in an ultra-modern geodesic structure with a traditional gopuram based on khajuraho style of architecture, greeting pilgrims at the entrance. The major festivals of the temple are Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Sri Radhashtami, Kartik Fest (7-day festival during Govardhan Puja time) and Gaura Purnima. Grand abhishekas are performed for Sri Sri Radha Vrindavan-chandra during festivals such as Radhashtami and Janmashtami.
Other sacred sites
Other places of interest include Seva Kunj, Kesi Ghat, Sriji Temple, Jugal Kishore Temple, Lal Babu Temple, Raj Ghat, Kusuma Sarovar, Meera-Bai Temple, Imli Tal, Kaliya Ghat, Raman Reti, Varaha Ghat and Chira Ghat, and across the river, a short boat-ride away is the samadhi shrine of Devraha Baba, a revered saint of the last century.
Vrindavan is such a pious place where the flower of devotion can bloom fully. In Braj, there is no spot at all which is not related to the pastimes of Radha and Krishna. Here one views the pastimes of Radha and Krishna in the literature, culture, music and the devotional atmosphere The essence of Vrindavan is presented in the enchanting sagas of Radha and Krishna. They stand as a timeless beacon – that sheds a wonderful light that has endured through the centuries and even still today, fascinating people from the world over.
when lord krishna was leaving for mathura to free his parents from the prison of kansa, lord krishna dearest soul mate shri radha ji had taken a promise from lord krishna that he will never leave vrindavan ever. living up to his promise, lord krishna has always resided in vrindavan ever since. and even today, most blessed are with the " darsan " of shri banke bihari in vrindavan.
According to the Scriptures, "Shri Krishn never sets His foot outside Vrindavan." In the Garga Samhita it is mentioned that, "My heart will not be at pleasure where there is no Vrindavan, no Yamuna, no Govardhan.” According to the Holy Scriptures, Vrindavan is the forest of Tulasi (Vrinda). It is stated in the Padma Purana "wherever there is a Tulasi Garden, there also exists the association of Krishn. In that place, all the Gods, including Brahma and Laxmi, come to offer worship to Krishna, the Supreme Lord, in His abode" Bhakti Devi was captivated by contacts with Vrindavan, hence the greatest of glories to Shri Vrindavan Dham where Bhakti is dancing everywhere."
The most popular temples include:
Madan Mohan Temple
located near the Kali Ghat was built by Kapur Ram Das of Multan. This is the oldest temple in Vrindavan. The temple is closely associated with the saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Garud Govind Temple
is located on the turn of NH-2 to Vrindavan in Chhatikara village. This temple is one of the most ancient temples of the Brij and according to purans, main deity was incarnated by great grandson of lord Krishna, shri Bajranabh ji after the order of his Kulguru shri Gargachary. This is also one of the rarest temples of Garud ji, which is famous for 'Kalsarp Anushthan'.
Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir
is the world's tallest temple under-construction at Vrindavan. At cost of INR300 crore it will be one of the most expensively built temple in world by ISKCON.
Banke Bihari Temple
built in 1862 is the most popular shrine at Vrindavan. The image of Banke-Bihari was discovered in Nidhi Vana by Swami Haridas, the great Krishna devotee, belonging to the Nimbarka sampradaya.
Prem Mandir
is the most beautiful and clean, religious and spiritual complex situated on a 54-acre site on the outskirts of Vrindavan, is one of the newest temples dedicated to Divine Love. The temple structure was established by spiritual guru Kripalu Maharaj. The main structure built in marble looks incredibly beautiful and is an educational monument that reflects the true history of Sanatana Dharma. Figures of Shri Krishna and his followers depicting important events surrounding the Lord’s existence cover the main temple.
Radha Vallabh Temple
set up by the Radha-Vallabh sampradaya, through Sri Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu, has the crown of Radharani placed next to the Shri Krishna image in the sanctum.
Jaipur Temple
which was built by Sawai Madho Singh II, the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1917, is a richly embellished and opulent temple. The fine hand-carved sandstone is of unparalleled workmanship. The temple is dedicated to Shri Radha Madhava.
Sri Radha Raman Mandir
constructed at the request of Gopala Bhatta Goswami around 1542 is one of the most exquisitely crafted and revered temples of Vrindavan, especially by the Goswamis. It still houses the original saligram deity of Krishna as Radha Ramana, alongside Radharani.
Shahji Temple
another popular temple at Vrindavan, was designed and built in 1876 by a wealthy jeweller, Shah Kundan Lal of Lucknow. The deities (images) at the temple are popularly known as the Chhote Radha Raman. Noted for its magnificent architecture and beautiful marble sculpture, the temple has twelve spiral columns each 15 feet high. The 'Basanti Kamra' – the darbar hall is famed for its Belgian glass chandeliers and fine paintings.
Rangaji Temple
built in 1851 is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha or Rangaji depicted as Lord Vishnu in his sheshashayi pose, resting on the coils of the sacred Sesha Naga. The temple built in the Dravidian style (as a replica of Srivilliputhur) has a tall gopuram (gateway), of six storeys and a gold-plated Dhwaja stambha, 50 feet high. A water tank and a picturesque garden lie within the temple enclosure. The annual festival of Jal Vihar of the presiding deity is performed with great pomp and splendour at the tank. The temple is also famous for its 'Brahmotsdav' celebration in March–April, more popularly known as the 'Rath ka Mela'. The ten-day-long celebrations are marked by the pulling of the rath (the chariot car) by the devotees from the temple to the adjoining gardens. The prayers within the temple are performed, following in the style of Andal, one of the twelve Vaishnava Saints of South India.
Govind Dev Temple
was once a magnificent seven storeyed structure built in the form of a Greek cross. It is said that the Emperor Akbar donated some of the red sandstone that had been brought for the Red Fort at Agra, for the construction of this temple. Built at the astronomical cost of one crore rupees in 1590 by his general Raja Man Singh, the temple combines western, Hindu and Muslim architectural elements in its structure. It was destroyed by Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.
Sri Krishna-Balarama Temple
built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in a location known as 'Raman-Reti', is one of the most beautiful temples in Vrindavan today. The principal deities of this temple are Krishna and Balaram, with Radha–Shyamasundar and Gaura-Nitai alongside. Adjoining the temple is the samadhi of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON, built in pure white marble.
Radha Damodar Mandir
The Mandir was established in 1542 by Srila Jiva Goswami. The deities Sri Sri Radha–Damodar are here. The bhajan kutir of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada is also situated at the Mandir.
Shri Maa Katyayani Mandir
The temple is situated in Radha Bagh, near Rangnath mandir. This is one of suddh Shakti Peetha of Shakti.
Chintaharan Hanuman Mandir, temple of Lord Hanuman is situated near Atalvan.
Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Temple
In Vrindavan, the "Lila Sthan" (the place of the divine passion play) of Lord Krishna, lies the temple that is a must visit destination for devotees completing the 84 kosh Vraj Parikrama Yatra. The temple is centuries old and is the first Indian temple that is dedicated to the divine couple and their Ashta Sakhi’s - the eight "companions" of Radha who were intimately involved in her love play with the Lord Krishna. The Ashta Sakhis are mentioned in the ancient texts of Puranas and the Bhagavata Purana. The temple is called Shree Radha Ras Bihari Ashta Sakhi Mandir and it is home to the divine Rasa Lila of Lord Krishna and Radharani. It is located in close proximity to the Shri Banke Behari Mandir. Legend has it that the Shree Radha Rasa Behari Ashta Sakhi Mandir is one of the two places in Mathura, Vrindavan where the Lord Krishna actually indulges in the Rasa Lila with his beloved Radha and her sakhis. On these nights, devotees have reported hearing the sound of the anklets, beating in tune to a divine melody.
Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple
was built by Mahamandaleshwar Mahant Sri Krsna Balaram Swamiji from Vrindavan. This newly constructed Radha Govinda Temple, completed in 2004 is based on a famous historic temple built about 500 years ago by Srila Rupa Goswami, a direct Sanyasi disciple of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Sri Vrindavan-Chandra Mandir
located some ninety miles southeast of Delhi, is a replica of that supreme Goloka Vrindavana in the spiritual sky. It was inaugurated in 2006 on the most auspicious day of Sri Rama Navami day. The temple is housed in an ultra-modern geodesic structure with a traditional gopuram based on khajuraho style of architecture, greeting pilgrims at the entrance. The major festivals of the temple are Sri Krishna Janmashtami, Sri Radhashtami, Kartik Fest (7-day festival during Govardhan Puja time) and Gaura Purnima. Grand abhishekas are performed for Sri Sri Radha Vrindavan-chandra during festivals such as Radhashtami and Janmashtami.
Other sacred sites
Other places of interest include Seva Kunj, Kesi Ghat, Sriji Temple, Jugal Kishore Temple, Lal Babu Temple, Raj Ghat, Kusuma Sarovar, Meera-Bai Temple, Imli Tal, Kaliya Ghat, Raman Reti, Varaha Ghat and Chira Ghat, and across the river, a short boat-ride away is the samadhi shrine of Devraha Baba, a revered saint of the last century.