Dwarkadhish Temple Mathura

Introduction about the Dwarkadhish Temple

Sri Dwarkadhish Mandir is a Hindu temple located in the city of Mathura in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the oldest and largest temples in Mathura which itself harks back to the days of the Mahabharata. The presiding deity is Lord Dwarkadhish-the God or king of Dwaraka which served as Lord Krishna’s Earthly abode after he shifted from Mathura. Krishna is an Incarnation of Lord Vishnu who was born in human form to restore order in the world, which was under the sway of demonic forces at that time. The Image of Krishna in black marble is called Dwarkanath and he is complemented with a white marble Idol of Sri Radharani. This beautiful shrine also houses the images of several other Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The shrine is a highly popular Hindu pilgrimage center and attracts innumerable devotees from far and near.

History of the Dwarkadhish Temple

The Dwarkadhish temple was constructed by Seth Gokul Das Parikh, the erstwhile treasurer of the Gwalior Estate. He built the temple in 1814 to display his devotion to Krishna and popularize the deeds of the Lord. The worship service of the temple was handed over to Pustimarga Girgharlal Acharya ji from Kankroli in 1930. The worship of the deity is still carried out in the tradition established by the Acharya. The affairs of the temple are currently administered by followers of the Vallabhacharya sect. 

Architecture of the Dwarkadhish Temple

The temple structure is constructed in the local style of architecture prevalent in those times and is a magnificent example of design and execution. Built on a fairly large parcel of land, the main building of the temple is enclosed by an exquisitely carved Rajasthani style entrance. Several steep steps lead to a courtyard where a platform has been erected in the center, which comprises of three rows of elegantly carved pillars. These pillars are the mainstay of the beautifully painted ceiling and serve as a support. A shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna in the form of Shaligram forms the main attraction of the courtyard.

Festivals Related to Dwarkadhish Temple

In keeping with the tradition of other Krishna temples, Aartis are performed in the morning and evening. The shrine celebrates the occasion of Janmaashtami in a grand manner, with devotees participating in the proceedings with great enthusiasm. Holi and Diwali are also major occasions of celebration in the temple and are observed with great fanfare. The Hindola festival which heralds the onset of the rainy season, witnesses a large turnout of devotees. During this period, the temple is colorfully decorated and Lord Dwarkadhish is placed in a silver and golden Jhoola (swing) to welcome visitors. The temple is packed with people who come from all over to have a glimpse of their beloved Lord Krishna and receive his blessings.

Benefits or Blessings of the primary deity- Mathura Dwarkadhish Temple

Worship of Lord Krishna helps one achieve happiness and peace. Those hankering for material benefits are blessed with his benevolence and he never disappoints those who pray to him with a clean and pure heart. Just a glimpse of his image is said to send one into raptures of ecstasy. The Lord brings joy into the hearts of his devotees and it is said that prostrating at his Lotus Feet is said to deliver one from sins.

Location – How to reach the Mathura Dwarkadhish Temple