Dwarka Dham

The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as the Jagat Mandir, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here as Dwarkadhish, meaning the “King of Dwarka”.​The temple is located in the city of Dwarka in Gujarat, India, and is one of the destinations of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit.

​

Location and Architecture

The temple stands at an elevation of 12 metres above mean sea level and faces west. The main shrine, part of a five-storied structure supported by 72 pillars, is known as the Jagat Mandir or Nija Mandir. The structure is primarily constructed of limestone and sandstone and features intricate carvings.The temple layout consists of Garbhagriha (Nija Mandira) & Antarala (antechamber)

​

The temple spire rises to a height of 78 metres. A triangular flag of 15 metres in length is hoisted on the spire. The flag bears the symbols of the sun and moon, signifying that Krishna will remain as long as the sun and moon exist. The flag is changed four times a day, and devotees contribute by sponsoring new flags. The funds collected are used for the temple’s operation and maintenance.

​

Temple Entrances

​

The temple has two principal gateways:

• Moksha Dwara (Door to Salvation) – Northern entrance, opening toward the local market

• Swarga Dwara (Gate to Heaven) – Southern entrance, leading to 56 steps descending to the ghats of the Gomati River

 

Historical Background

Archaeological findings suggest that the original temple may have been built as early as 200 BCE. The temple was later rebuilt and enlarged during the 15th–16th century. The original structure was destroyed by Mahmud Begada in 1473, and the present temple dates to the 16th century. The temple became part of the Char Dham pilgrimage, which is considered sacred by Hindus. Adi Shankara, the 8th-century Hindu philosopher, is believed to have visited the shrine.

​

Mythological Legends

According to Hindu legend, Dwarka was built by Lord Krishna on land reclaimed from the sea.

As per the Mahabharata:

• Sage Durvasa once visited Krishna and Rukmini and asked them to pull his chariot.

• During the journey, Rukmini became tired and requested water.

• Krishna created water by bringing the river Ganga to the spot.

• Durvasa, angered by the incident, cursed Rukmini to remain at that place.

• The site of her shrine is believed to be where she stood.

Durvasa later blessed Krishna with invincibility everywhere except the soles of his feet and declared that Rukmini would remain his eternal companion. The town of Dwarka is described in the Mahabharata as the capital of Krishna’s kingdom and is situated on the banks of the Gomti River.

​

Religious Importance

Dwarka is an important pilgrimage site as it is associated with the ancient city of Dvārakā and Lord Krishna of the Mahabharata.

It is one of the three main pilgrimage circuits related to Krishna:

• 48 Kos Parikrama of Kurukshetra (Haryana)

• Braj Parikrama in Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)

• Dwarka Parikrama (Dwarkadhish Yatra) in Gujarat

It is also one of the seven holy cities of India.

​

Char Dham Significance

The four major pilgrimage temples located across India are:

• Jagannath Temple, Puri (East)

• Ranganath Temple, Srirangam (South)

• Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka (West)

• Badrinath Temple, Badrinath (North)

Though associated with different sects of Hinduism, the Char Dham pilgrimage is considered sacred by all Hindus.

Traditionally, the journey begins from Puri in the east and proceeds clockwise.

 

Festivals and Beliefs

• Krishna Janmashtami (Gokulashtami), the birthday of Lord Krishna, is a major festival associated with the temple.

• The festival was commissioned by Shri Vallabhacharya (1473–1531).

According to legend, Meera Bai, the Rajput princess and poet-saint devoted to Krishna, is believed to have merged with the deity at this temple.

​

Dwarka Dham stands as a significant centre of faith, history, and devotion, attracting pilgrims from across India and beyond.

​

DWARKADHISH KI JAY 🙏

​