This temple is one of the most sacred and beloved places dedicated to Lord Krishna in Vrindavan. The unique style in the worship of the deity, and the sense of unity that devotees feel with it, make this place an attractive destination for thousands of pilgrims every day. The temple is located in the sacred town of Vrindavan in the district of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. This is not only a place of spiritual abode but, all at the same time, a monument to the architectural splendor that is rich in religious traditions and a culture of worship for Lord Krishna.
A Short History of Banke Bihari Temple
The Banke Bihari Temple was founded by the great Hindu saint Swami Haridas. He was the guru of the great musician Tansen in the court of Akbar. It is believed that Swami Haridas found the idol of Banke Bihari at Nidhivan in Vrindavan while he was observing there in seclusion. It was received in the form of Lord Krishna as Banke Bihari on the intense and fervent devotion of him. The very name "Banke Bihari" gives away the meaning: the prefix "Banke" has meant bending in three places-the usual image of Lord Krishna bending a knee and carrying the flute-because "Bihari" means enjoying or roaming.
This is more than 150-year-old temple that represents Vrindavan. Devotion to the Lord Krishna is celebrated here every day. Unlike most other Hindu temples, the deity here is not always visible to the devotees. A curtain is drawn across the deity at regular intervals as the strong aura of Banke Bihari is said to be so powerful that continuous exposure can overpower the devotees.
Timings and Special Darshan
Banke Bihari Temple opens with few stated timings. Timings have their variations according to seasons.
Summer Timings: Between the months of April till October
- Morning: between 7:45 and nearly 12:00 hours
- Evening: around 5:30 opening, closing at around 9:30
Winter Timings: November end until March
- Morning : At 8:45 A.M. closing, that is at 1:00 P.M. again
- Evening: closing after 4:30 of afternoon and closing at about 8:30 end.
These timings are such that devotees can plan their visit in a convenient manner so that everybody gets a glimpse of the deity. In some festivals like Janmashtami and Radhashtami, the timings are extended and special puja is conducted. Banke Bihari Temple does not have traditional morning arti as most temples do. Instead, doors are opened for shringar (making the deity beautiful), followed by darshan (taking a look at the deity), then bhog (offering food to the deity), with all this being not an elaborated ritual always in search of making a relationship between the deity and his devotees.
The Distinctness of Worship
One particular feature of the Banke Bihari Temple, through which devotees were accorded the privilege of their darshan (sight of the deity). In many temples, the deity is always visible. In this case, though, a curtain is drawn before the idol every few minutes. The reason is that it is considered that the look of Banke Bihari is so bewitching that even for some moments his stare can enslave and hypnotize devotees. This way, the temple priests are so careful not to let the devotees see more than a dim view so that the devotes may feel his but respect the power he seems to be putting out.
Inside the temple during darshan, the atmosphere was vibrant with sounds of bhajans and the rings of bells and claps. The whole experience would be a sensory celebration of worship, and it wouldn't be hard to understand why people would be completely lost in prayer, singing, and dancing in exuberance. This would be the hallmark of Krishna temples, especially Vrindavan, where Krishna spent much of his childhood.
Festivals at Banke Bihari Temple
Banke Bihari Temple is a center of festivals associated with Lord Krishna. Major festivals performed at the temple are:
Janmashtami
The birthday festival of Lord Krishna, the grand Janmashtami ceremony is a major attraction of the temple, which attracts thousands of devotees here. The temple is decorated and special arrangements for devotees are made during darshan.
The festival of colors is celebrated here in great enthusiasm. Banke Bihari has a special 'Phoolon ki Holi' (Holi with flowers) and 'Lathmar Holi' (playful Holi with sticks and colors). These events bring to life the Holi celebrations in Vrindavan, and visitors from all over the world come to participate in them.
Radhashtami
Radhashtami is observed on the birth anniversary of Radha, supreme queen of Krishna. Even on this festival, decorations in the temple are special. The deity is decorated with bright flowers and designs.
Every festival here at the temple is elaborately done with chanting, singing, and dancing to associate every worshipper with Lord Krishna in the name of love and gaiety.
Visiting Banke Bihari Temple
If you are planning to visit Banke Bihari Temple, note the following:
Timing is everything: The timings vary with the seasons. Going early during weekends or festival times helps avoid long lines.
Dress modestly: Since it is a sacred place, it's best to dress modestly and respect the traditional clothing.
Keep Track of Your Belongings: With the crowds this size, it is highly advisable to keep track of all personal belongings.
Join Bhajan Sessions: If there are opportunities, join in on the bhajan sessions inside the temple for it to be a more glorious and happy celebration of worship and love.
Respect Their Tradition: The temple runs a big portion of Vrindavan's tradition; respect its customs, like you may not take photographs within the temple grounds, in order to make your visit run more smoothly.
Banke Bihari Temple is not just a shrine; it is an experience that has profound spiritual connection and bliss. It makes everyone feel closer to Lord Krishna, embracing the divine atmosphere of Vrindavan and Krishna's enchanting presence. Every visit has its own flavor of unique tradition-from curtain-drawn darshan to the festive seasons. For those seeking peace, joy, or a deeper relationship with Lord Krishna, a visit to Banke Bihari in Vrindavan will be compulsory.
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