India, also known as Devbhoomi, has countless devotees of Lord Krishna. The main center of faith and devotion towards him are the Shri Krishna temples located across the country, where every year lakhs of devotees come to have darshan of Lord Shri Krishna. There are many famous temples of Lord Krishna in India, which are spread from east to west and from north to south. There is a rush of devotees in these temples of Kanha throughout the year, but on the occasion of Janmashtami, the darshan of Shri Krishna in these temples is considered especially auspicious. Let us know about the 5 largest and most famous Shri Krishna temples of India, which are not only important from the religious point of view but are also known for their architectural art and historical importance.
1. Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Mathura (UP)
The world is aware that Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and the temple dedicated to him is called the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi. One of the holiest places in Hinduism, this temple is situated right in the middle of Mathura. This is thought to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. There is a sanctum sanctorum in the temple complex, which is thought to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is constructed like a prison. An enormous celebration is held here annually on the eve of Janmashtami, in which a great number of devotees from both India and overseas take part.
2. Govind Dev Ji Temple, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
Govind Dev Ji Temple is located in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, and is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Shri Krishna. One of the holiest places in Hinduism, this temple is situated right in the middle of Mathura. This is thought to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. There is a sanctum sanctorum in the temple complex, which is thought to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is constructed like a prison. An enormous celebration is held here annually on the eve of Janmashtami, in which a great number of devotees from both India and overseas take part.
3. Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, Guruvayur (Kerala)
Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple is located in Guruvayur, in the Thrissur district of Kerala. It is also called the Dwarkadhish Temple of South India. Here the idol of Lord Shri Krishna is installed in the form of Bal Gopal, and it is considered extremely sacred. This temple also has historical importance because it is said to be 5000 years old. The religious rituals and methods here are completely based on ancient traditions. Especially rituals like marriage and naming ceremonies are performed here in large numbers.
4. Jagannath Temple, Puri (Odisha)
Jagannath Temple is located in Puri and is dedicated to the incarnations of Lord Vishnu, Shri Krishna, Balarama, and Subhadra. This temple is located near Gomti Creek, and its main structure is built at a height of 43 meters. This dham is considered to be more than 800 years old. The flag situated on the peak of Jagannath Temple always waves in the opposite direction of the wind. Apart from this, there is also a Sudarshan Chakra installed on the peak of the temple, which, when seen from any direction, appears as if the Chakra is facing towards you. The importance of this temple is not only in India but all over the world. It is considered one of the Char Dhams, and every year lakhs of devotees come here for darshan. The most important event at Jagannath Temple is the Rath Yatra, which is famous all over the world. This temple is also known for its architecture and religious traditions.
5. Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka (Gujarat)
Dwarkadhish Temple is located in Dwarka, Gujarat, and is considered to be the abode of Lord Shri Krishna. This temple is one of the Char Dham, and here Lord Krishna is worshiped as ‘Dwarkadhish’. This temple is situated near Gomti Creek, and the main temple is built at a height of 43 meters. Dwarka city is considered the capital of Lord Krishna, and that is why this temple is especially important. The architectural and religious importance of this temple has included it among the major pilgrimage sites of India. Every year on the occasion of Janmashtami, special pujas and rituals take place here, which is an unforgettable experience for the devotees.