Bhadraj Temple

Introduction to Bhadraj Temple

Bhadraj Temple is located in the western region of Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. It is one of the few temples dedicated to Balbhadra, also known as Balram, brother of Shri Krishna. He is the incarnation of Shesh Nag, the serpent. The temple lies at the top of Bhadraj Hill, at an altitude of 1,802 meters above sea level. The fresh air and the atmosphere of the place is very calming. It is a 10 to 11-km trek from Clouds End, Mussoorie.

Legend of the Bhadraj temple

The legend of the Bhadraj Temple explains that, after the Mahabharata war, Balram left his kingdom and started his journey to do penance. He came across a beautiful spot called Binhar, where people took good care of their cows. They were hospitable. People in Binhar were cordial to Balram, and he meditated there for a long period. He taught some war tactics to the shepherds and left for Badrinath after his penance. Before leaving the place, he promised the people that he would come back as a stone to take care of them.

After some years, a person named Nandu Mehra dug at the banks of River Yamuna for Ayurvedic medicines. He heard a voice asking Mehra to take him out. He was scared and approached his friends to assist him in digging. They found a statue of Balram. Mehra heard the voice again and instructed him to carry the statue and place it in a peak spot.

He was unable to carry such a heavy statue. Then the voice advised Mehra to place it at the spot where it felt heavy. The statue became light while starting, but he felt it was heavy on reaching Bhadraj. So, he placed the statue there.

He moved from the place and started to walk towards a hilltop. Mehra felt thirsty. He again heard the voice ask him to move further and remove dirt and stone from the place. He did so, and finally, he found water there. Even today, devotees can find the place. It lies at Matogi village in Binhar, where the water level remains the same throughout the year.

The Architecture of the Bhadraj Temple

It is believed that the Pandavas, who visited the region during their exile, built the Bhadraj Temple. It has undergone many renovations and repairs over the centuries. Presently, the local temple committee manages it

Bhadraj Temple is a perfect blend of beautiful architecture, scenic location, and spirituality. The temple is the right choice for avid trekkers who can enjoy the views of the Himalayas from the summit. Also, its 360-degree view brings enticing views of the Doon Valley, Jaunsar Bawar, the Shivalik ranges, and Dakpathar and Assan Barrage dam. The temple was renovated using white marble, which perfectly complements the natural beauty that surrounds the temple.

The architecture of the Bhadraj Temple reflects the typical North Indian temple style. It has a square-shaped sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) and a pyramidal roof (shikhara) on top of it. Bhadraj Temple is simple and elegant, with stone construction. Intricate carvings of Hindu deities and mythological scenes adorn the temple's exterior walls.

The sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) of Balram in the temple lies at the center of the temple complex. It is a square-shaped structure that houses the idol of Balram, the main deity. A spacious Mandap is in front of the sanctorum. The Garbhagriha is a small and dark space. Four strong pillars support the Mandap, and its ceilings have paintings from Hindu mythology.

The temple has a carved stone gateway that leads to the entrance. The gateway (Torana) has elaborate carvings of deities and mythological scenes. There is a small shrine for Shiva on the left side of the Mandap (courtyard). A small Shiva Ling is inside the shrine, which has a pyramid-shaped roof. Overall, the Bhadraj Temple is a fine example of traditional North Indian temple architecture.

Festivals in Bhadraj Temple

Bhadraj Fair is one of the biggest festivals celebrated at the Bhadraj Temple. This four-day festival attracts thousands of devotees across the country. It is especially dedicated to the main deity Balram. The other festivals that are celebrated here are Janmashtami, Navratri, and Diwali.

Benefits of Worshipping at Bhadraj Temple

Devotees believe that visiting Bhadraj Temple brings the same blessings as visiting Badrinath Temple. The deity here blesses his devotees with courage, protection, and strength.