Amazing Facts of Shrinathji of Nathdwara

Shrinathji is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. He is considered to be a benevolent and compassionate god who can grant his devotees their desires. There are many Amazing Facts of Shrinathji of Nathdwara: their origin, installation, & darshan. Let’s read this informative blog on each aspect.

Origin of Shrinathji at Vrindavan

The origins of Shrinathji can be traced back to the ancient city of Vrindavan, India, where Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood.

According to legend, the idol of Shrinathji was miraculously discovered in a cave near Govardhan Hill by a cowherd named Liladhar.

The idol was said to be radiating a divine light, and Liladhar immediately recognized it as a manifestation of Lord Krishna.

Liladhar took the idol to his home in Vrindavan, where he enshrined it in a small temple.

The idol quickly became revered by the people of Vrindavan, who believed it to be highly auspicious.

News of the miraculous idol spread throughout the region, and pilgrims began to flock to Vrindavan to pay their respects.

Migration to Nathdwara: 

In the 12th century, the Mughal emperor Akbar invaded Vrindavan.

Fearing for the safety of the idol, Liladhar’s descendants decided to move it to a safer location.

They chose the village of Nathdwara, located about 80 kilometers from Vrindavan.

The journey to Nathdwara was fraught with danger. The villagers had to travel through dense forests and across treacherous rivers, all while evading the Mughal soldiers.

But they were determined to protect the idol of their beloved Shrinathji.

Finally, after a long and arduous journey, the villagers reached Nathdwara. They enshrined the idol in a small temple, where it has remained ever since.

The temple has since been expanded and renovated over the centuries, but the idol of Shrinathji is still the same, radiating its divine light and bringing blessings to all who come to worship it.

Interesting Facts about Shrinathji:

Here are some interesting facts about the origin of Shrinathji:

• The idol is believed to be made of black stone, and it is said to be self-manifested.

• The idol is 7 feet tall, and it is dressed in elaborate clothes and jewelry.

• Shrinathji is a swarup of lord Krishna which resembles his 7-year-old “infant” incarnation of Krishna.
• The idol is said to have the power to grant wishes.

• The shrine at Nathdwara was built in the 17th century at the spot as exactly ordained by Shrinathji himself.

Shrinathji’s Eight Darshan

Imagine a mischievous Krishna, adored by the Gopis, asleep in Yashoda’s embrace.

Now picture a temple echoing with devotional hymns, where this very child awakens and grants darshans – eight glimpses of his divine life throughout the day.

Welcome to the world of Shrinathji’s darshans at Nathdwara. Each darshan is a window into Krishna’s daily routine, meticulously designed by Vallabhacharya centuries ago.

1. Mangala:

Dawn begins with the conch’s gentle call, waking the sleeping Krishna. He’s dressed simply, adorned with a thin band. This darshan lasts longer in winter, when Krishna needs more sleep after frolicking in the cold.

2. Shringar:

An hour later, Krishna is dressed in seasonal splendor. His ornaments and attire, pre-determined for each day, are chosen with utmost care. This darshan culminates in the magical moment when he gazes at his reflection, apparently pleased with his attire.

3. Gwal:

A private darshan, depicting Krishna tending his cows. The cowherd Nandlala is offered leaves of Tulsi, a symbol of protection.

4. Rajbhog:

The grandest of all darshans! Shreeji, adorned with a new garland, receives a royal meal befitting his status. Even Shivji comes for this darshan, standing in a designated area. The Haveli closes for his afternoon nap after this elaborate ceremony.

5. Utthapan:

Krishna awakes to the soothing veena, his childlike sleepiness evident in the calm, peaceful atmosphere. Fruits and milk offerings mark this serene darshan.

6. Bhog:

Fountains cool the summer air, while a coal sigri warms the winter. A golden peacock fan whispers around the deity as he receives a light snack and beautiful flower ornaments.

7. Sandhya Aarti:

Yashoda’s evening aarti for her son. Krishna, dressed in light clothes, holds his flute, creating a tranquil ambience. Bhog is offered to the Sudarshan Chakra.

8. Shayan:

Lullaby sounds fill the air as Krishna prepares for sleep. He’s given his flute, and a melodious bhajan whispers like a lullaby. A lush bed awaits him, and offerings of water, laddoos, and betel leaves are placed by his side.

As Shayan ends, the temple and the town quiet down, mirroring Krishna’s slumber. Even the doors remain open, symbolizing the child’s trust and the town’s devotion.

These eight darshans are not mere glimpses; they’re an immersive journey into Krishna’s life, weaving together devotion, tradition, and the magic of storytelling. They offer a unique connection with the divine, leaving visitors with a sense of awe, peace, and a newfound understanding of Krishna’s love for his devotees.

Timing of Darshan of Shrinathji at Nathdwara:

Unlike most temples, Nathdwara’s rhythm revolves around Shrinathji, a playful child deity.

He needs his playtime and naps, just like any other child. Darshan timings, therefore, are carefully curated, changing slightly with the seasons, to ensure he gets both.

These glimpses into his day, called darshans or jhankis, offer a unique experience, a peek into the divine life of Lord Krishna.

Each day starts with waking him at a set time, followed by a bath, beautiful attire, and a delicious meal.

Then, brief darshans allow devotees to bask in his playful spirit before he’s sent off to explore and play.

Lunchtime arrives, and then it’s nap time – a period for him to recharge.

Waking up refreshed, he indulges in a light afternoon snack.

As the sun begins to set, the evening darshan commences, followed by a simple meal and bedtime preparations.

Sleep brings the day to a close, ready for the new dawn and its eight glimpses of divine life.

Bhog & Prasad:

All of the Lord’s Bhog is prepared in the Nij Mandir, in accordance with the different seasons. Even the choice of foods, spices and dry fruits to be used is based on the season it is offered in.

While most of the food is sweet, there is a minimal addition of rock salt and pepper in some dishes. In the heat of the summer, he is offered cooling Rose water and sandalwood, while he is given Kesar or saffron to warm him in the winters.

Only the purest of ingredients are hand-picked and used to prepare the Bhog. Also, no one is allowed to watch as the Lord partakes of his meal.

Conclusion:

So, visiting Nathdwara isn’t just about praying; it’s about witnessing a divine story unfold across eight acts, each imbued with a unique emotion and brimming with the playful energy of a child God.

It’s a journey that leaves you touched, filled with wonder, and yearning for another glimpse of Shrinathji’s magical day.