Dwarkadhish Temple History & Fun Facts
The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as the Jagat Mandir, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. Located in Dwarka, Gujarat, it is believed to be the place where Krishna established his kingdom of Dwarka after leaving Mathura.
🏛️ History of Dwarkadhish Temple
🏹 Mythological Origins
- The temple is linked to Krishna’s kingdom of Dwarka, which, according to legend, was submerged in the sea after his departure from Earth.
- It is believed that Krishna’s great-grandson Vajranabh built the first temple on this site over 5,000 years ago.
- The temple finds mention in Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and Vishnu Purana as an important Vaishnavite pilgrimage site.
🏗️ Historical Timeline
- 1st Century BCE: Archaeological findings suggest that Dwarka was a thriving port city during this time.
- Early Medieval Period: The temple was rebuilt and expanded multiple times.
- 1472 CE: Sultan Mahmud Begada attacked and destroyed the temple.
- 15th-16th Century: The Gaekwads of Baroda and local devotees restored and renovated it.
- Dwarka Peeth: The temple is associated with Adi Shankaracharya, who established one of the four major mathas (spiritual centers) here.
🎉 Fun Facts About Dwarkadhish Temple
1️⃣ Five-Storied Marvel
- The temple stands 78 meters (256 feet) tall with five floors, all built without the use of cement or iron!
2️⃣ 72 Pillars of Mystery
- The temple is supported by 72 beautifully carved pillars, featuring intricate sculptures depicting Krishna’s life, celestial beings, and mythical creatures.
3️⃣ Swarna Dhwaja (Golden Flag)
- The temple’s flag (Dhwaja), made of 5 different colors, is changed 5 times a day—each time, it is donated by a different devotee!
4️⃣ The Lost City of Dwarka
- Marine archaeologists have found submerged ruins near Dwarka, believed to be remnants of Krishna’s original kingdom!
5️⃣ The Gomti Sangam
- The temple is built where the Gomti River meets the Arabian Sea, and pilgrims take a holy dip before entering the shrine.
6️⃣ No Shadows?
- It is said that the temple’s main shrine casts no shadow at any time of the day!
✨ Significance
- One of the Char Dham (four sacred pilgrimage sites) in Hinduism.
- One of the Sapta Puri (seven holiest cities in India).
- A major Vaishnavite temple, attracting millions of devotees.
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