Barsana Radha Rani Temple (Shreeji), Uttar Pradesh

Address

Barsana Radha Rani Temple (Shreeji), Uttar Pradesh

Shree Ji Mandir, bramachal parbhat, Barsana,

Mathura district,

Uttar Pradesh 281405

Moolavar

Krishna

Amman

Radha

Introduction

• Location: Barsana, Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh, India.
• Dedication: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Radha, with the divine couple Radha and Krishna worshiped in the form of Shri Laadli Lal, meaning the beloved daughter and son of the town.
• Setting: Perched on Bhanugarh Hill, the temple offers a stunning panoramic view of Barsana, making it both a spiritual and scenic destination. It is one of the major pilgrimage sites for devotees of Radha and Krishna.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Origins:
  • The Radha Rani Temple is believed to have been originally established over 5000 years ago by King Vajranabh, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna.
  • After falling into ruin, the temple was revitalized in the 16th century by Narayan Bhatt, a disciple of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, and reconstructed in 1675 AD with the support of Raja Bir Singh Deo.
  • The current structure was later rebuilt with the help of Raja Todarmal, a prominent figure under Emperor Akbar.
• Legend of Radha and Krishna’s Families:
  • According to legend, the temple’s origins are tied to the migration of Nanda (father of Krishna) and Vrishbhanu (father of Radha). Both families fled from the tyranny of King Kamsa of Mathura.
  • Nanda settled on Nandishvar Hill, while Vrishbhanu established his home on Bhanugarh Hill, which became the permanent abode of Goddess Radha.
  • The Radha Rani Temple, therefore, is situated on Bhanugarh Hill, while the Nand Bhawan Temple is located on Nandishvar Hill.

Special Features

• Architectural Splendor:
  • The temple, also known as Shreeji Temple, blends Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.
  • Constructed from red sandstone, it features intricate hand carvings, arches, and domes, with beautiful paintings adorning the inner walls and ceilings.
  • The use of red and white stones symbolizes the eternal love between Radha and Krishna.
• Climbing to the Temple:
  • Devotees must ascend over 200 steps to reach the temple, making the journey a physically rewarding and spiritually uplifting experience.
  • At the base of the steps lies the palace of Vrishabhanu Maharaj, which houses idols of Vrishabhanu Maharaj, Kirtida (Radha’s mother), Shridama (Radha’s brother), and Shri Radhika.
  • Nearby, the Brahma Temple and the Ashtasakhi Temple stand as important shrines where Radha is worshipped alongside her eight principal friends, or sakhis.
• Scenic Views:
  • As the temple sits atop Bhanugarh Hill, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire town of Barsana, enhancing the experience of peace and devotion.

Festivals and Celebrations

• Radhashtami:
  • The birth anniversary of Goddess Radha is celebrated with grand devotion, attracting thousands of pilgrims to the temple for special prayers, bhajans, and rituals.
• Krishna Janmashtami:
  • The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with similar enthusiasm, with elaborate festivities, including midnight prayers, processions, and devotional offerings.
• Both festivals are major events at the Radha Rani Temple, bringing together pilgrims from across the world for joyous and spiritual celebrations.

Century/Period

1675 AD

Nearest Bus Station

Barsana Bus Stand

Nearest Railway Station

Mathura Junction

Nearest Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), New Delhi

Location on Map

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