Shri Banke Bihari Temple, located in the holy city of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, India, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is considered one of the most revered places of worship for Krishna devotees.
The temple was established in 1864 by the great saint and Krishna devotee, Swami Haridas. According to legend, Lord Krishna appeared to Swami Haridas in a dream and instructed him to build a temple where the Lord could reside in the form of a child. Swami Haridas followed the Lord's instructions and built the temple, and it has since become a major pilgrimage site for devotees.
The temple is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The main deity in the temple is Lord Krishna in the form of a child, also known as Banke Bihari. The idol is made of black stone and is believed to have been self-manifested, meaning it appeared on its own without human intervention.
The temple is open to devotees throughout the year, and the darshan timings vary according to the season. During festivals like Holi, Janmashtami, and Radha Ashtami, the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees flock to the temple in large numbers to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the Lord.
One of the unique aspects of the temple is the tradition of 'jharokha darshan.' The temple priests open the curtains of the jharokha, or the window, for a few moments every day to give devotees a glimpse of the Lord. The darshan timings are limited, and devotees have to queue up for hours to catch a glimpse of the Lord.
The temple complex also houses other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Radha-Krishna, Lalita-Gopala, and Radha-Vinod. There is also a 'Kirtan Hall' where devotees can participate in devotional singing and chanting.
Visiting Shri Banke Bihari Temple is a unique experience that combines devotion, spirituality, and architecture. It is a place that attracts people from all walks of life, and the divine presence of Lord Krishna can be felt in every corner of the temple. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper connection with the divine and a greater understanding of Hinduism and its traditions.