A step closer towards serenity- Kusum Sarovar, Govardhan Hill, Mathura

When was the first time you heard about Mathura? It was probably in your childhood when you were reading one of those iconic Amar Chitra Katha books, depicting the stories of Lord Krishna. Or it was your grandmother, who told you bedtime stories about little Krishna and his endearing pranks? In all those stories, a name came up – Mathura, his birthplace. Back then, Mathura never felt like a place to you; it, on the other hand, felt like a character, living and breathing and full of life.   

Mathura boasts a rich cultural heritage that is woven through hundreds of legends and myths. It is undoubtedly regarded as one of the seven holy cities by Hindus all over India. Even in this modern age, the charm of Mathura continues to lure visitors from all parts of the country and beyond. And what makes this sacred city a hot favorite among tourists? The answer is pretty simple – the enticing milieu of sacred temples, religious structures, landmark monuments, and serene ghats lend Mathura a surreal beauty that is hard to find in your regular tourist destinations.

One such beautiful place is Kusum Sarovar.

Kusum Sarovar is a sacred water reservoir surrounded by a medieval sand monument. 

It is located between the Manasi Ganga and Radha Kund on the famous Govardhan Hill in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. 

Kusum Sarovar is acknowledged as one of the holy sites where Hindu deities Radha and Krishna performed their rituals. Kusum Sarovar has Narada Kund, where Bhakti Sutra verses were written by Narada, and the Shri Radha Vana Bihari Temple in the vicinity.

Historical belief

 

Kusum Sarovar was a natural pond until 1675 when it was professionally built by Orchha's monarch, Veer Singh Deo.  In 1735, King Veer Singh of Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh, ordered the restoration of this place. The area around this place was rebuilt by King Suraj Mal.  In commemorating his father Raja Suraj Mal, King Jawahar Singh of Bharatpur erected a sandstone monument in the backdrop of Kusum Sarovar in the mid-eighteenth century.

 

"A Handbook for Visitors to Agra and Its Neighbourhood," by Henry George Keene, published in 1878, describes Kusum Sarovar.

"On every side of the reservoir that fronts it, handsome landing-places run out into the still water with deep and wide staircases between; a venerable banyan tree shades the south side, and sends its pendant shoots towards the water… The spot is singular in its repose, silence, and irregular charms."

— Henry Geroge Keene

The most divine love story- Radha Krishna Legend

 

Kusum Sarovar dates back to the era of Radha Krishna.  It is a site surrounded by flowers and Kadamb trees, as the name says. Radha is supposed to have come here under the guise of picking flowers for her companions, but instead met Krishna and had lively chats with him.   According to mythology, Radha's dress became trapped in thorns while collecting flowers, and Krishna, dressed as a gardener, came to Radharani's rescue and freed her dress from the thorns. On this historic spot, Krishna is reportedly said to have played hide-and-seek with his companions and collected flowers for Radha's garlands.

 

Architecture

Kusum Sarovar Ghat

Kusum Sarovar Ghat is a 450- foot- long, 60- foot- deep tank in Kusum Sarovar. The pond’s ghats (banks) have a Rajasthani design. A series of steps climb upward from all four corners of the Kusum Sarovar to the historical edifice built by King Jawahar Singh. Around 60 meters deep are the arcade walls that surround the pond. The pond, filled with emerald green water, is surrounded on all sides by a forest that offers a multitude of flowers.

Monumental structure

 

The historical monument was built in commemoration of King Jawahar Singh's parents. The main tomb, dedicated to King Suraj Mal, is positioned in the center of the colossal edifice and covers an area of 57 square feet. There are two other historical constructions on both sides of this tomb that are considerably lesser in size. These tombs were built in honor of King Suraj Mall's two queens, Kishori and Hansiya.

The whole structure is supported by a 460-foot-long terrace and a pavilion that serves as a protective cover for both corners of the structure.  Inside the tomb, the architecture and sculpture are in the perforated stone style. The cenotaphs' ceilings are embellished with magnificent murals depicting Radha Krishna's divine pastimes and happenings at Maharajas Suraj Mal's court. The edifice also includes a copy of Lord Krishna and Radha's lotus feet.

 

Why should you visit Kusum Sarovar? 

Kusum Sarovar is a popular tourist destination in the Braj region. Visitors travel across the state to see the majestic structures that enclose the Sarovar (pond) and the exquisite murals representing Krishna's life and his adventures with Radha. Radha Krishna is said to have performed numerous pastimes here. During his time in Vrindavan, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a Vaishnava saint and a renowned devotee of Krishna, liked to visit this pond. Kusum Sarovar was also known as Suman Sarovar during the reign of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It is stated that anyone who bathes in the Kusuma Sarovara pond will gain pure Krishna's love.

Visiting time

Everyday - 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

A Day in Vrindavan and Gokul- Travel Blog 2/2

Radhe Radhe

So after the wonderful day in Barsana, the next spots were Vrindavan and Gokul. I hope you will like this part too.

Kesi Ghat

This lovely place is commemorating the glorious victory of Lord Krishna over the terrifying Keshi demon. Situated on the banks of the River Yamuna, Keshi Ghat is counted amongst the most popular tourist attractions in Vrindavan. Legend has it that after slaying the demon Keshi (after which the ghat is named), Lord Krishna took a bath at this ghat. Keshi was the horse demon that was sent by Krishna’s evil uncle Kansa to kill him. Since then, devotees visiting Vrindavan make a point to take a dip in the holy water. In the evenings, a special aarti is performed at the ghat for the Yamuna Devi. Keshi Ghat, now a major bathing center in Vrindavan, is visited by numerous pilgrims and photo enthusiasts on an everyday basis.

Man in the frame- Manoj Kr. Mahali

(p.c. Aditya Bharadwaj)

Historical stories of Krishna at Keshi Ghat

Kesi Ghat is named after the famous pastime of the young boy Krishna, in which he annihilated the demonic horse monster Keshi. Legend has it that Krishna’s evil Uncle Kansa sent the gigantic horse to trample young Krishna to death.

After easily dispatching the demon by grabbing his legs and hurling him away, Krishna was attacked again by Keshi rushing towards him with an open mouth intent on devouring the small child. Krishna deftly thrust his fist into the demon’s mouth suffocating him and causing him to explode. To wash off the filth of the Keshi demon from his pure body, Krishna went into the Yamuna River to bathe. 

Bankey Bihari temple

The Bankey Bihari temple, Vrindavan is amongst the holiest and famous temples of Krishna in India. Shri Swami Haridas got Bankey Bihari Ji appeared in Nidhivan. The idol of Thakur Ji is much older and was worshipped in Nidhivan till 1863. This temple was constructed in 1864 with the contribution of Goswamis. After constructing the temple, Goswamis transferred the idol to this temple. Bankey means “Bent at three places” and Bihari means “supreme enjoyer”. Bankey Bihari Ji is worshiped and looked after as a child. There is a different and unique style of celebrating every festival in the Bankey Bihari temple. The deity is dressed up and offered cuisine (bhog, prasad) according to season. Temple is decorated with lights and various types of flowers according to the festival. There are no bells or conch in the temple because Bankey Bihari does not like the sound of bells or conch, there is the only chant of ‘Radha Naam’. When someone enters the temple, he feels eternal bliss and calm and forgets all misery. As soon as someone meets with Thakur Ji, he becomes dedicating himself to Thakur Ji. Kind-hearted Thakur Ji demolishes his problem and blesses him with His divine grace how far he is.

Prem Mandir, Vrindavan

Also known as the temple of divine love, Prem Mandir, Imbued with elegance, and grandeur is dedicated to Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna, and Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. It was shaped and designed by Jagadguru Shri Kripaluji Maharaj in 2001, and is sprawled over 54 acres. Considered as one of the most beautiful and elegant structures in Vrindavan, this Italian white marble temple is dedicated to the major events of Lord Krishna’s life and the interiors depict those scenes, including the raising of Govardhan Hill.

A grand music fountain, where a pleasing sound and light show takes place in the evening, is one of the most interesting attractions of this religious site. The pathways through the garden, a restaurant, shop, and fountains are all part of the temple. Prayers and assemblies are held in a large, pillar-less, dome-shaped Satsang hall that can accommodate as many as 25,000 people at a time.

Today, it is run and maintained by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat, an international non-profit, educational, spiritual, and charitable trust. It is a much-frequented religious site for couples, young and old, who come here to be inspired by the eternal bond of who are perhaps the greatest examples of love and devotion in Indian mythology.

Made out of white marble and adorned with very intricate carvings, this temple is also famous for its architectural beauty. Statues of Shri Krishna and his admirers, portraying essential occasions surrounding the Lord's life, cover the main temple. Various scenes from Krishna's life, like raising the Govardhan Mountains have been depicted on the periphery of the Prem Mandir. The lighting of the temple further glorifies its spectacular look, especially during the night. The colored water twists and twirls to the tunes of the kirtans of Radha Krishna being played nearby and are an audio-visual delight.

 

Raman Reti

This pious place is believed to have been the sporting place of Laddu Gopal (baby Krishna) in Gokul. Reti means sand and thus in the sand of this sacred place is blessed by the lotus feet of the baby Krishna. Thus this place is revered among the people of Braj. It is believed that at this place Lord Krishna during his childhood used to play with Lord Balram and his other gopa friends. So, due to its association with Krishna, this land has been used by many saints for their meditation. A small shrine by the name of Rang Bihari Ji is located at this place which was established and worshipped by a pious saint Sri Gyandas Ji Maharaj who performed his severe austerities for the blessings of Lord Krishna while fasting at this sacred place of Raman Reti. It is also believed that saint Gyandas founded this place of Raman Reti.

Raman Reti is the sand in which Lord Krishna played as a child. In more recent times, about 200 years ago, the famous Saint, Swami Gyandas Ji did severe penance at Raman Reti for 12 years. Pleased with his devotion, The Lord appeared before him and today you can find a Raman Bihari Ji Temple at that place. Today devotees roll over the sand here and seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.

Some more pictures from the Mathura trip

Most of the beautiful pictures were clicked by Aditya Bharadwaj, who is a professional photographer from GLA University.  You can contact him at 9219780770 or Aditya60bharadwaj@gmail.com for an appointment. For now, have a glimpse of his work

 Thank you very much for stopping by!

A Day in Barsana- Travel Blog 1/2

Radhe-Radhe

Some of you might have visited so many of the holy places. We all love such places, not just for beauty, but also for the historical beliefs and to feel the culture more closely, Right?

When I came to Mathura, 4 years back, I was amazed by the beautiful temples and the mythological stories related to this city as well as nearby places. So I will be sharing my experience with these lovely places along with the associated historical beliefs. Trust me, by the end of this blog, you will be known to many of the places and stories, you have never heard.

So, the first place I will be telling you about is Barsana, which is world-famous for Lathmar holi. The highlights for the towns that are said to be associated with a Hindu legend related to Lord Krishna and Radha.

Thousands of men from all parts of Mathura district in Uttar Pradesh come to Radha Rani temple in a village called Barsana. After a small ritual ceremony, everyone gathers in the temple compound and in the famous narrow lane in front of it called ‘Rang Rangeeli Gali’ (the colorful lane).

The celebration starts with women smearing color on men and they make sure no one’s left out. Villagers sing folk songs and women dance for their audience. Sweet shops overflow with a cold drink called thandai which is prepared with an edible form of cannabis called bhang. On the next day, men arrive in Barsana again, and this time they try to smear color on the women in the village. Then, the women take out sticks and try to beat the men who save themselves with shields. While men try to save them and each other, the women shout and cheer for their friends and urge them to chase and hit harder. All this is done in jest and everyone gathered participates in the fun.

The mythological story of Lath Mar Holi

Indian mythological stories write about Lord Krishna in different stages of his life. In his days as a young man, he was mischievous and playful. He often visited Barsana, the village where his beloved Radha used to live. Once, days before Holi, the Indian festival of colors, Krishna visited Barsana with his friends, and, together, they teased Radha and her companions. Taking offense to this, Radha’s friends chased the men away with sticks. Lath Mar Holi festival is a re-enactment of this legend

The celebrations are in good spirits and so is the commemoration of the tales associated with the place. There are vibrancies and good cheer all around that depict the true spirits of Mathura. It is one of the biggest festivals in North India is closely associated with Indian mythology. One must definitely visit Mathura during the festival of Holi to immerse themselves in the wonderful colors of love and happiness. 

 

Radha rani temple

Shri Radha Rani Temple is a prominent temple in Barsana. Located at approx 43 km from Mathura in Uttar Pradesh Barsana village is one of the most revered places that appeals devotees across the world. Being the homeland and birthplace of Shri Radha Rani, this little suburb of the Braj region is believed to be amongst the favorite spot of divine destinations not only for pilgrims but also for travelers with spiritual instincts. The Radha Rani temple in the city is also known as Ladli Lalji or Shree Ji temple. Ladli lal Ji or Shree Ji means beloved Radha. 

Radha Rani is believed to be the Goddess of Brajwasis. She is believed to be the secret power of Lord Krishna. For Brajwasis, Radha Rani is not just a consort of Krishna, but the ultimate source of his prowess. Due to her eminent character, she is the only worshipped Goddess of the Braj region. The Radha Rani Temple in Barsana is believed to be the place where Shreeji is always omnipresent and is believed to be a blessing every pilgrim visiting the temple with unending devotion. 

Unknown facts about the Shriji Temple

Located on the Bhanugarh hill, the Shriji temple in Barsana is believed to be 5000 years old. The name of the hill came from Shri Radha Rani’s father’s name Vrishbhanu. Barsana is famous worldwide as it is dedicated to Radha-Krishna. People all around the world come to visit the place as a pilgrimage. According to legends, Barsana is the place where Shri Radha Rani was born and brought up amongst her friends. Shri Krishna used to come to Barsana to meet her beloved Shri Radha.

According to the legends, Shri Krishna’s father Nand Maharaj Ji and Shri Radha’s father Vrishbhanu Maharaj were good friends and used to live in Gokul and Rawal respectively. Due to the atrocities of Kansa, both Nand Maharaj and Vrishbhanu shifted to Nandgaon. Since Vrishbhanu resided on Bhanugarh Hill, the place became home to Radha Rani, where the temple is built today. Krishna and Radha’s pastime stories are innumerable and Barsana witnessed some of them. It is said that Krishna used to come to Barsana to play Holi with Shri Radha Rani. Till date, this ritual is religiously followed by the locals here. The men of Nandgaon still comes to play Holi with the women of Barsana. People from all over the world come to see this soul binding festivity and celebrate Holi here. The temple resonates with the soulful spiritual vibrations the whole year which gains momentum during festive times like Radhashtmi and Holi.

Kirti Temple of Radha Krishna at Barsana

This is the only temple in the world which is dedicated to Kirti Maa who according to the legends is considered to be the Mother of Shri Radha Ji.

 

As we approached Barsana the home town of Shri Radha Ji the daughter of Brisbhan Ji we had the chantings and the prosody coming to the ears all around Radhe Krishna. The very first sight of the temple captured my eyes and my heart throbbed for my dedication to Krishna and Radha and I could not stop uttering myself Hare Krishna Hare Radha.

The temple in itself with the grand scale of architecture and the magnificent rock-cut carvings done out of pale and buff-colored sandstone captivated my heart and I was immersed in deep devotion as it is commonly said ‘a thing of beauty is a joy forever’. Visiting inside the sanctum I found the statue of baby Radha sitting in the lap of her mother which is the only kind of statue in the world.

To be continued...