Vrindavan and Mathura are sacred towns located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, which are home to millions of devotees across the world. These towns are revered for their association with Lord Krishna but also carry an incredibly rich cultural and spiritual history that spans thousands of years. Known for their mystical beauty, ancient temples, and lively festivals, Vrindavan and Mathura have secrets that lie hidden for many. This blog will unseal twelve interesting facts about these towns, their temples, and the importance they hold in Hindu mythology and spirituality.
1. Origin of Vrindavan Name
The name ‘Vrindavan’ comes from the confluence of two Sanskrit words: ‘Vrinda’, which means Tulsi (basil), and ‘Van’, which refers to forest. This, therefore, means that Vrindavan was originally a huge forest of around 10 km, the Tulsi Forest, in which Lord Krishna spent much of his childhood. This sacred herb in the area adds a divine dimension to the mystical aura of the town.
2. Bhai Behan Ka Snan
On the second day after Diwali, brothers and sisters of the family visit Vishram Ghat in Vrindavan to perform a unique ritual called Bhai Behan Ka Snan. The ritual involves bathing together in the holy Yamuna River, symbolizing the bond of protection and mutual respect. It is believed that this sacred bath fulfills all wishes and brings blessings for the family.
3. Panchmukhi Shivling
At Vishram Ghat at Mathura, one could get hold of a unique five-headed idol of Lord Shiva, known as the Panchmukhi Shivling. Devotees perform water plating rituals after prayers here, considering that offering water to the Shivling brings spiritual purification and grace. This rare form of Lord Shiva adds to the mystical nature of Vrindavan and Mathura.
4. Yamuna Mata’s Temple
Milan Mandir in Vrindavan is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, who is said to be the fourth wife of Lord Krishna. The temple is special for the devotees as it is said that this is the place where Goddess Yamuna did penance and finally met Krishna. This temple reminds people of the deep bond between Krishna and the sacred Yamuna River.
5. Bansi Chor Tale
Among the most famous stories to which Lord Krishna has lent his name is the legend of the ‘Bansi Chor’. Krishna loved stealing butter from the gopis, and as his wife, Radha took the revenge of stealing Krishna’s flute. And such is the Bansi Chor Radha Rani temple, which marks an amusing time where Krishna is praised for his mischief and his devotion towards Radha.
6. Durvasa Rishi’s Story
Durvasa Rishi, renowned for his fiery temper, was once pacified by Lord Krishna. This story showcases Krishna’s unique ability to influence even the most powerful sages and celestial beings. It is said that Lord Krishna’s calming influence over Durvasa is a testimony to his unmatched spiritual power and grace.
7. Rasleela in Nidhivan
Nidhivan is one of the most mystical places in Vrindavan. As per the locals’ beliefs, every night Lord Krishna and Radha do the Rasleela dance here and the trees of the forest turn into the gopis who are performing this dance. According to devotees, the divine couple keeps on continuing their eternal love and dance every night in Nidhivan and no one is permitted to stay here after sunset as this place must remain sanctimonious.
8. 84 Kos Yatra
The 84 Kos Yatra is the oldest one to be performed within the periphery of the Vrindavan area. Beginning from Vishram Ghat, the travel spans across a huge mileage and also comprises a group of holy places that carry immense significance in Krishna’s life. The yatra is indeed a test for devotion, endurance, and faith; pilgrims do believe that they will be granted enlightenment as well as eternal blessing once the 84 Kos Yatra is completed.
9. Krishna Janmabhoomi
Krishna Janmabhoomi is a cradle of Lord Krishna who was born in Mathura as a prison. There Lord Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva when their brother Kansa, known for his tyranny, made them prisoners. In lieu of the prison, they built a magnificent temple denoting the holy site where Lord Krishna was born. This place is of utmost religious importance in Hinduism and many millions of pilgrims each year come here to seek blessings from the almighty.
10. Gopeshwar Mahadev Legend
The legend of Gopeshwar Mahadev is an interesting mythological narration associated with the worship of Lord Shiva. This is stated to be such that at one point Lord Shiva disguised himself in the disguise of a gopi cowherd girl to attend Krishna’s Leela. When Krishna became aware, he acknowledged Shiva’s ardor and established the temple as a mark for Gopeshwar Mahadev. Thus, this place remains among the most celebrated places to worship in Vrindavan.
11. History of Kesi Ghat
Kesi Ghat was named after the demon Kesi, who was sent by Krishna’s uncle, Kansa, to kill Krishna. However, Krishna slew the demon at this same place, and it turned into a victory place of good over evil. This is one of the significant pilgrimage places in Vrindavan, where the devotees come and pray and seek blessings from Lord Krishna.
12. Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan is specially known for its unique representation of Lord Krishna. The image of the deity is exhibited in a child-like style, which represents the sportive nature of Krishna. The temple performs special prayers that keep the atmosphere serious and mysterious. The Idol of Banke Bihari Krishna is said to be so beautiful that any devotee cannot resist from its presence.
Vrindavan and Mathura are more than towns; they are mystical places steeped in divine history, rich cultural heritage, and eternal love for Lord Krishna. Whether it is the spiritual journey of the 84 Kos Yatra or the playful tales of Krishna’s antics with Radha and the gopis, these towns offer a unique blend of the sacred and the mysterious. With these twelve fascinating facts, we realize how much of the profundity that these two cities hold for millions and millions of devotees are to be explored. It is an entirely new chapter of devotion, myth, and spirituality at every new fact in each of the towns-not just a historic pilgrimage destination but a very living example of the Lord Krishna presence.
