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{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2022}}
{{Use Indian English|date=May 2022}}
{{Use Indian English|date=May 2022}}
{{Infobox temple
{{Infobox deity
| name               = Shrinathji Temple
| type = Hindu
| image             = Sri nathji.jpg
| name = Shrinathji
| alt                =
| image = Shrinathji Vitthalanath Birthday Shringar.jpg
| caption           = Sri Nathji of Nathdwara
| caption = Painting of Shrinathji, c. 1840
| map_type          =
| affiliation = [[Krishnaism]]-[[Vaishnavism]]
| map_caption        =
| region = Nathdwara
| coordinates        =
| venerated_in = [[Pushtimarg]]
| country            = India
| temple = Shrinathji Temple
| state              = [[Rajasthan]]
| district          = [[Udaipur]]
| location          = [[Nathdwara]]
| elevation_m        =
| deity              = Lord [[Krishna]]
| year_completed    =
| architecture      = Rajasthani
| creator            = Goswami Tilkayat shri Damodarlalji Maharaj II
| website            =  
}}
}}
'''Shrinathji''' is a form of [[Krishna]], manifested as a seven-year-old child (''Balak'').<ref>[https://www.jstor.org/pss/1464465 Book Review: "Krishna as Shrinathji: Rajasthani Paintings from Nathdvara" by Amit Ambalal, for Journal of the American Academy of Religion, June, 1988]</ref> The principal shrine of Shrinathji is the [[Shrinathji Temple]] in the temple town of [[Nathdwara]], 48 kilometres north-east of [[Udaipur, Rajasthan|Udaipur city]] in [[Rajasthan]],India. Shrinathji is the central presiding deity of the [[Vaishnava]] sect known as [[Pushtimarg]] (''the way of grace'') or the Vallabha Sampradaya, established by [[Vallabhacharya]]. Shrinathji is worshipped mainly by the followers of [[Bhakti Yoga]] and the Vaishnavas in [[Gujarat]] and [[Rajasthan]],<ref>[http://www.eternalmewar.in/User/Research/WikiDescription.aspx?Id=Nathdwara Mewar Encyclopedia] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726164023/http://www.eternalmewar.in/User/Research/WikiDescription.aspx?Id=Nathdwara |date=2011-07-26 }}</ref> and [[Bhatia (caste)|Bhatias]]<ref>http://bhatiacommunity.org/</ref> amongst others.


[[Vitthal Nathji]],<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=ObFCT5_taSgC&pg=PA245 The Encyclopaedia Of Indian Literature - Volume One (A To Devo), by Amaresh Datta]</ref> son of [[Vallabha Acharya|Vallabhacharya]] institutionalised the worship of Shrinathji at Nathdwara.<ref>[http://www.blessingsonthenet.com/travel/showplace4.asp?place=Nathdwara# Nathdwara Guide] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929162317/http://www.blessingsonthenet.com/travel/showplace4.asp?place=Nathdwara |date=2011-09-29 }}</ref> On account of the popularity of Shrinathji, Nathdwara town itself is referred to as ‘Shrinathji’.<ref>[http://www.rajsamandtimes.in/2011/01/shrinath-ji-temple-nathdwara/  Rajsamand Times ]</ref> People also call it Bava's (Shreenathji Bava) Nagri.
'''Shrinathji''' is a form of [[Krishna]], manifested as a seven-year-old child.<ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://www.jstor.org/pss/1464465|title=Book Review: "Krishna as Shrinathji: Rajasthani Paintings from Nathdvara" by Amit Ambalal, for Journal of the American Academy of Religion, June, 1988|journal=Journal of the American Academy of Religion |date=1988 |volume=56 |issue=4 |pages=765–767 |jstor=1464465 |last1=Lutzker |first1=Mary-Ann |doi=10.1093/jaarel/LVI.4.765 |url-access=subscription }}</ref> Shrinathji is the central presiding deity of the [[Vaishnava]] sect known as [[Pushtimarg]] (''the way of grace'') or the Vallabha Sampradaya, established by saint [[Vallabhacharya]].
Initially, the child Krishna deity was referred to as Devdaman ("''the conqueror of Gods''" referring to the over-powering of [[Indra]] by Krishna in the lifting of Govardhan hill).<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=kWqPwWpkhg0C&pg=PA183 Yatra2Yatra by Sanjay Singh]</ref> Vallabhacharya named him as [[Gopala]] and the place of his worship as ‘Gopalpur’. Later, Vitthal Nathji named the deity as Shrinathji. Shrinathji's seva is performed in 8 parts of the day.


==History==
Shrinathji is worshipped mainly by followers of [[Bhakti Yoga]] and the Vaishnavas in [[Gujarat]] and [[Rajasthan]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mewar Encyclopedia |url=http://www.eternalmewar.in/User/Research/WikiDescription.aspx?Id=Nathdwara |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726164023/http://www.eternalmewar.in/User/Research/WikiDescription.aspx?Id=Nathdwara |archivedate=26 July 2011}}</ref> as well as the [[Bhatia (caste)|Bhatias]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bhatia Community Mission Foundation (Bhatia Community All Clicks) |url=http://bhatiacommunity.org/ |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190628172717/http://www.bhatiacommunity.org/ |archive-date=28 June 2019 |access-date=24 February 2017}}</ref> among others.


===Legend===
[[Vitthal Nathji]],<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ObFCT5_taSgC&pg=PA245|title=Encyclopaedia of Indian Literature: A-Devo|first=Amaresh|last=Datta|date=14 April 1987|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|isbn=978-81-260-1803-1 |via=Google Books}}</ref> son of [[Vallabha Acharya|Vallabhacharya]] institutionalised the worship of Shrinathji at Nathdwara.<ref name="blessingsonthenet_com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.blessingsonthenet.com/travel/showplace4.asp?place=Nathdwara|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929162317/http://www.blessingsonthenet.com/travel/showplace4.asp?place=Nathdwara|url-status=dead|title=Blessingsonthenet|archivedate=29 September 2011|website=www.blessingsonthenet.com}}</ref> On account of the popularity of Shrinathji, Nathdwara city itself is referred to as ‘Shrinathji’.<ref>[https://www.vnvtours.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-visit-shrinathji-temple-nathdwara/ Shrinathji Temple Nathdwara]</ref> People also call it Bava's (Shreenathji Bava) Nagri. Initially, the child Krishna deity was referred to as Devadāman ("''the conqueror of Gods''", referring to the overpowering of Indra by [[Krishna]] in the lifting of Govardhan hill).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kWqPwWpkhg0C&pg=PA183|title=Yatra 2 Yatra|date=14 April 2009|publisher=Yatra2Yatra|via=Google Books}}</ref> Vallabhacharya named him as [[Gopala-Krishna|Gopala]] and the place of his worship as ‘Gopalpur’. Later, Vitthal Nathji named the deity as Shrinathji. Shrinathji's seva is performed in 8 parts of the day. The principal shrine of Shrinathji is the [[Shrinathji Temple]] in the temple city of [[Nathdwara]], 48 kilometres north-east of [[Udaipur, Rajasthan|Udaipur city]] in [[Rajasthan]], India.


Shrinathji appeared to Shri [[Vallabhacharya]],<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=g6FsB3psOTIC&pg=PA641 The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: N-Z by James G. Lochtefeld]</ref> in the [[Hindu calendar|Hindu]] [[Vikram Samvat]] year 1549 (1672 A.D.) and directed Vallabhacharyaji to proceed to the Govardhan Hill to begin worship. Vallabhacharyaji appointed Madhavendra Puri for the deity's seva .
==History==
After the death of Madhavendra Puri, this tradition was carried forward by shri Mahaprabhuji's eldest son who was the next gadi pati, shri gopinathji and then his younger brother and the one with who's effort seva became more efficient and awareness for saving cows came among people of 16th century, shri Gusainji [[Vitthalanatha]].
 
Nathdwara is the epicentre of the Pushti Margiya Vaishnav community and Shrinathji is their prime deity. For centuries now, the seat of the Tilakayat Maharaj has ruled over Nathdwara. He is the head pontiff, taking the seat of Shri Vallabhacharyaji and Shri Gusainji.
 
The contemporary head pontiff of Nathdwara is Go. Ti. Shri 108 Shri Indradamanji (Rakeshji) Maharaj, who is the 17th descendant of Shri Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji. He is called the Tilakayat of Nathdwara and is a steward of the town as well as the head [[gadipati]] of Shrinathji.
 
The Heir Apparent of Nathdwara, by the age old tradition of Shri Gusainji, is the son of the current Tilakayat Maharaj — Go. Chi. Shri Vishal (Bhupeshkumarji) Bawa sahab. He is proactive in religious as well as social affairs of the town and serves as the ‘Paricharak’ or assistant to his father in the temple. He is known as Goswami Vishal Nathdwara (GVN) on social media and has revolutionised the way of ‘religious living’ to his young audience.


===History===
According to the legend, the icon of Shrinathji [[Svayambhu|self-manifested]] from stone and emerged from [[Govardhan Hill]]. Historically, the image of Shrinathji was first worshipped at Govardhan hill, near [[Mathura]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kmcLLEBmPHwC&pg=PA45|title=Art and Artists of Rajasthan: A Study on the Art & Artists of Mewar with Reference to Western Indian School of Painting|first=Rādhākr̥shṇa|last=Vaśishṭha|date=14 April 1995|publisher=Abhinav Publications|isbn=978-81-7017-284-0 |via=Google Books}}</ref> The image was initially shifted from Mathura in 1672 A.D. along river [[Yamuna]] and was retained at [[Agra]] for almost six months, to safeguard it from, according to legend, the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] ruler [[Aurangzeb]], who wanted to destroy the idol.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC&pg=PA178|title=The Mughal Empire|first=John F.|last=Richards|date=14 April 1993|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-0-521-56603-2 |via=Google Books}}</ref> Subsequently, the image was transferred further south on a chariot to a safer place to protect it from the iconoclasm of Aurangzeb.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kAMik_6LbwUC&pg=PA238|title=The Rough Guide to India|first1=David|last1=Abram|first2=Rough|last2=Guides (Firm)|date=14 April 2003|publisher=Rough Guides|isbn=978-1-84353-089-3 |via=Google Books}}</ref> When the icon reached the spot at village Sihad or Sinhad in [[Mewar]], the wheels of the chariot are said to have sunken into the mud and could not be moved any further. The accompanying priests realized that the place was the Shrinathji's chosen spot and, accordingly, the icon was installed in a temple there under the rule and protection of the then Maharana [[Raj Singh I|Raj Singh]] of Mewar. No other Hindu ruler was ready to take the image into his kingdom, as it would mean opposing Aurangzeb, who was the most intolerant man in India at that time.<ref>Maharana Raj Singh and His Times pg 29</ref>
According to the legend, the Srinathji deity self-manifested from stone and emerged from the Govardhan Hills. Historically, the image of Shrinathji was first worshipped at Govardhan hill, near [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]].<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=kmcLLEBmPHwC&pg=PA45&lpg=PA45 Art and artists of Rajasthan: A study on the art & artists of Mewar by Radhakrishṇa Vasishṭha]</ref> The image was initially shifted from [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]] in 1672 A.D. along river [[Yamuna]] and was retained at [[Agra]] for almost six months, in order to safeguard it from, according to legend, the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] ruler [[Aurangzeb]], who wished to keep the prestigious deity with him in Agra.<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=HHyVh29gy4QC&pg=PA178 The Mughal Empire by John F. Richards]</ref> Subsequently, the image was transferred further south on a chariot to a safer place to protect it from barbarian destruction unleashed by [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] ruler [[Aurangzeb]].<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=kAMik_6LbwUC&pg=PA238 Rough guide to India by David Abram]</ref> When the icon reached the spot at village Sihad or Sinhad in [[Mewar]], the wheels of the chariot in which the icon was being transported sank into mud and could not be moved any farther. The accompanying priests realised that the place was the Shrinathji's chosen spot and, accordingly, the icon was installed in a temple there under the rule and protection of the then Maharana [[Raj Singh I|Raj Singh]] of Mewar. No other Hindu ruler was ready to take the image in his kingdom as it would mean to oppose the Mughal emperor [[Aurangzeb]], who was the most powerful man in Asia at that time.<ref>Maharana Raj Singh and His Times pg 29</ref>


In the anomical environment of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the temple of Shrinathji was attacked by the Medas and the [[Pindari]]s. Accordingly, the icon was shifted again and was protected at Udaipur and Ghasiyar under the patronage of Maharana Bheem Singh of Mewar.
In the anomical environment of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the temple of Shrinathji was attacked by the Medas and the [[Pindari]]s. Accordingly, the icon was shifted again and was protected at Udaipur and Ghasiyar under the patronage of Maharana Bheem Singh of Mewar.
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==Nathdwara Temple or Haveli==
==Nathdwara Temple or Haveli==
{{main|Shrinathji Temple}}
{{main|Shrinathji Temple}}
[[File:Gateway To Temple.jpg|thumb|right|Gate of the [[Shrinathji Temple]]]]
[[File:Gateway To Temple, Nathdwara.jpg|thumb|right|Gate of the [[Shrinathji Temple]]]]
Shrinathji was brought to Mewar region of Rajasthan through Agra and [[Gwalior]], during the oppressive reign of Aurangazeb, because devotes like Ajab Kunwarbai called him. The chariot carrying the image is believed to have stuck in mud at Sihad village of Mewar while traveling, and hence the idol was established in a temple built with the permission of the current Rana of Mewar.
The Nathdwara temple was built in the 17th century.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.udaipur.org.uk/temples/nathdwara-temple.html|title=Nathdwara Temple- Shrinathji Temple Nathdwara, Shrinathji Temple Nathdwara Rajasthan, Shrinathji Temple India|website=www.udaipur.org.uk}}</ref> The temple is popularly called ''Shrinathji ki [[Haveli]]'' (House of Shrinathji). Like a regular mansion, it has a chariot for movement (the original chariot in which Shrinathji was brought to Singhar), a store room for milk (''Doodhghar''), a store room for betel (''Paanghar''), a store room for sugar and sweets (''Mishrighar'' and ''Pedaghar''), a store room for flowers (''Phoolghar''), a functional kitchen (''Rasoighar''), a jewellery chamber (''Gahnaghar''), a treasury (''Kharcha bhandaar''), a stable for horses of the chariot (''Ashvashala''), a drawing room (''Baithak''), a gold and silver grinding wheel (''Chakki'').
As per the religious myths, the shrine at Nathdwara was built in the 17th century at the spot as ordained by Shrinathji himself.<ref>[http://www.udaipur.org.uk/temples/nathdwara-temple.html Nathdwara Temple Site]</ref>  
 
The temple is also popularly called ''Shrinathji ki Haveli'' (House of Shrinathji) because like a regular household it has a chariot for movement (In fact the original chariot in which Shrinathji was brought to Singhar), a store room for milk (Doodhghar), a store room for betel (Paanghar), a store room for sugar and sweetmeats (Mishrighar and Pedaghar), a store room for flowers (Phoolghar), a functional kitchen (Rasoighar), a jewellery chamber (Gahnaghar), a treasury (Kharcha bhandaar), a stable for horses of chariot (Ashvashala), a drawing room (Baithak), a gold and silver grinding wheel (Chakki).
Nathdwara is known as the "[[Braj|Vraj]]" of western India. Over 100,000 Hindus visit Nathdwara in a year.{{Citation needed|date=May 2024}}
There are several prominent temples around the world that pay homage to Shrinathji. The "Nathdwara" of the western hemisphere is known as Vraj. It is located in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania. Over 100,000 Hindus visit Vraj in a year.
The priests and servants within the temple are not paid any cash salaries, receiving simply [[prasad]] as a reward for their duties by the tilkayat maharaj. Often this prasad is given or sold to guests who visit the temple for [[Darśana|darshan]].


==Icon at Nathdwara==
==Icon at Nathdwara==
[[File:Nathdwara srinathji.jpg|thumb|left|[[Nathdwara]] Srinathji at representing the autumn Annakuta Festival. Late 18th century.]]
[[File:Nathdwara srinathji.jpg|thumb|left|[[Nathdwara]] Srinathji at representing the autumn Annakuta Festival. Late 18th century.]]


The holy icon is carved in [[bas-relief]] out of a monolithic black [[marble]] stone,<ref>[http://www.blessingsonthenet.com/travel/showplace4.asp?place=Nathdwara Nathdwara Description] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929162317/http://www.blessingsonthenet.com/travel/showplace4.asp?place=Nathdwara |date=2011-09-29 }}</ref> with images of two cows, one lion, one snake, two peacocks and one parrot engraved on it and three sages placed near it. The idol of Shrinathji wears exquisitely worked jewels, some dating back to pre-Mughal period.<ref name="books.google.co.in">[https://books.google.com/books?id=Ieypjy0k2TsC&pg=PA6254 The Indian Encyclopaedia: Volume 20, Edited by Subodh Kapoor]</ref> Shinathji is adorned with intricately woven ''shaneels'' and silk clothes having original ''[[zari]]'' and embroidery works. This is to be noted that once the cloth(vastra) is being used by the idol is never taken in use again and every day 8 times the idol changes it's cloth(vastras), and during special occasions like janmashtmi, Holi & Diwali the idol wears dresses which are literally woven by gold wires and diamond studded embroideries. Once the vastras which the idol wears, is then given to the devotees. Even the sacred flag above the temple which is changed every day is also woven by gold and silver wires.
The icon is carved in [[bas-relief]] out of a monolithic black [[marble]] stone,<ref name="blessingsonthenet_com" /> with images of two cows, one lion, one snake, two peacocks, and one parrot engraved on it and three sages placed near it. The icon of Shrinathji wears exquisitely worked jewels, some dating back to the pre-Mughal period.<ref name="books.google.co.in">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ieypjy0k2TsC&pg=PA6254|title=Indian Encyclopaedia|first=Subodh|last=Kapoor|date=14 April 2002|publisher=Cosmo Publications|isbn=978-81-7755-257-7 |via=Google Books}}</ref>
 
Shrinathji is adorned with intricately woven ''shaneels'' and silk clothes having original ''[[zari]]'' and embroidery works. The icon changes its clothes (''vastra'') eight times a day. During festive days like [[Krishna Janmashtami|Janmashtmi]], [[Holi]], and [[Diwali]], the icon wears dresses which are woven with gold wires and diamond-studded embroidery. Once worn, the clothes are not reused, but given to devotees.


==Festivals and rituals at the temple==
==Festivals and rituals at the temple==
The Shrinathji temple at Nathdwara celebrates, on an average, three festivals in a week.<ref name="books.google.co.in"/> As regards to daily routine, the inner sanctum is opened 8 times a day for the devotees undertake sacred darshan of the deity.
The Shrinathji temple at Nathdwara celebrates, on average, three festivals in a week.<ref name="books.google.co.in"/> As regards daily routine, the inner sanctum is opened 8 times a day for devotees to undertake sacred darshan of the deity.
Very elaborate and complex rituals have emerged around the worship of Shrinathji due to confluence and inter-mixing of cult of Krishna as well as that of Pushti Margi Shri Vallabhacharya.<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=xJ-lzU_nj_MC&pg=PA142 Hindu Art by T. Richard Blurton]</ref>
Very elaborate and complex rituals have emerged around the worship of Shrinathji due to confluence and inter-mixing of bhakti of Krishna as well as that of Pushti Margi Shri Vallabhacharya.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xJ-lzU_nj_MC&pg=PA142|title=Hindu Art|first=T. Richard|last=Blurton|date=14 April 1993|publisher=Harvard University Press|isbn=978-0-674-39189-5 |via=Google Books}}</ref>
 
The main attractions of Shrinathji are the [[Aarti]]s and the ''Shringar'', i.e., the dressing and beautifying of the icon of Shrinathji, treating it as a living child, adorning it with the appropriate dresses commensurate with the time of day or night. The formal prayers are offered with ''diya'', flowers, fruit, and other offerings, with local instruments and devotional songs of the Shrinathji, according to the demand of the time and occasion.  The view of the icon after the ''parda'' (curtain) is removed is called ''jhakhi''.


The main attractions of Shrinathji are the [[Aarti]]s and the ''Shringar'', ''i.e.'' the dressing and beautifying of the idol of Shrinathji, treating it as a living child, adorning it with the appropriate dresses commensurate with the time of day or night. The formal prayers are offered with ''diya'', flowers, fruit and other offerings, with local instruments and devotional songs of the Shrinathji, according to the demand of the time and occasion.  The view of the idol after the ''parda'' (curtain) is removed is called ''jhakhi''.
The gadipatis and acharyas in the Havelis of Shrinathji are believed to be from the ''kul'' (descendants) of Shri Mahaprabhuji, [[Vallabhacharya]], the founder of this deity's icon at Govardhan hill, near [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]]. Presently, Shrinathji is worshipped by priests from this ''kul'' (genealogical descendants) of Vallabh Acharya. In the rest of the world, a [[Gurjar]] of a special sect who has initiation and agya (permission) performs the worship of Shrinathji.


The gadipatis and acharyas in the Havelis of Shrinathji are believed to be from the ''kul'' (descendants) of shri mahaprabhuji, [[Vallabhacharya]], the founder of this deity's idol at Govardhan hill, near [[Mathura, Uttar Pradesh|Mathura]]. Presently, Shrinathji is worshipped by priests from this ''kul'' (genealogical descendants) of Vallabh Acharya. In the rest of the world, a [[Gurjar]] of a special sect who has initiation and agya (permission) perform the worship of Shrinathji.
Devotees throng to the shrine in large numbers during occasions of [[Krishna Janmashtami|Janmashtami]], [[Radhashtami]], [[Sharad Purnima]], [[Holi]], and [[Diwali]]. The deity is treated like a living image, and is attended with daily normal functions, like bathing, dressing, meals called "Prasad", and resting times in regular intervals. Since the deity is believed to be a child form of Krishna, special care is taken and attention is given to the deity, in the same way a mother would to her child.


Devotees throng to the shrine in large numbers during occasions of [[Krishna Janmashtami]], [[Radhashtami]], [[Sharad Purnima]], [[Holi]] and [[Diwali]]. The deity is treated like a living image, and is attended with daily normal functions, like bathing, dressing, meals called "Prasad" and the resting times in regular intervals. Since, the deity is believed to be a child form of Krishna, special care is taken and attention is given to the deity, the same way a mother would to her child.
[[Krishna Janmashtami]], the birth anniversary of Krishna, is celebrated with the salute of cannons and guns at Nathdwara temple of Shrinathji in Rajasthan.


[[Krishna Janmashtami|Shrikrishna Janmashtami]], the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna is celebrated with the salute of cannons and guns at Nathdwara temple of Shrinathji in Rajasthan.
People not only from the internal regions of Rajasthan but also from Gujarat and Maharashtra visit Nathdwara to witness Krishna's seraphic festival. Here, important arrangements are made by the temple trust for security at the police and administrative levels. The temple is decorated with attractive lighting for the festival. The entire city of Nathdwara reverberates owing to the melodious sound of the drum, trumpet, and clarinet at the main entrance of the temple. A series of congratulatory exchanges began pouring in a month earlier, from the Ashtami of Shravan of the Krishna.
People not only from the internal regions of Rajasthan but also from Gujarat and Maharashtra, visit Nathdwara to witness Lord Krishna’s seraphic festival. Here, important arrangements are made by the temple trust for security at the police and administrative level. The temple is decorated with attractive light decoration for the festival. The entire city of Nathdwara reverberates owing to the melodious sound of drum, trumpet, and clarinet at the main entrance of the temple. A series of congratulatory exchanges began pouring in a month earlier from the Ashtami of Shravan of the Lord Krishna.
According to the confirmation order, Shri Krishna Janmotsav is not celebrated as a public exhibition at night, but on the second day, as the Nandamahotsav, that is, by affirming 'Nand Gher Anand Bhayo, Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki’ in the presence of Tilakayat Maharaj Shree and his family, Brajvasi Sevakgan (Brigadian staff), Mukhiyaji (Headman), and Shrinathji along with spattering of milk and curd while dancing in front of them.
According to the confirmation order, Shri Krishna Janmotsav is not celebrated as a public exhibition in the night, but on the second day, as the Nandamahotsav, that is, by affirming 'Nand Gher Anand Bhayo, Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki’ in the presence of Tilakayat Maharaj Shree and his family, Brajvasi Sevakgan (Brigadian staff), Mukhiyaji (Headman), and Lord Shrinathji along with spattering of milk and curd while dancing in front of them.


===Daily ritual of 8 darshans===
===Daily ritual of 8 darshans===


====Legend====
====Legend====
The [[gopi]]es of Vraj used to love the Lord so much, they would be at Yashoda’s door at all hours, finding any excuse to see their beloved Nanda Gopal. Mother [[Yashoda]] was very protective of her darling child. Concerned that with all these adoring gopis, hanging around her house at all hours of the day, her darling child will never get any time to rest or play properly with his friends. So she decided that all those who wish to visit her beloved Bala Gopal, could do so after He had finished a snack or a meal, and was resting before going out again.
The [[Gopi|gopikas]] of Vraj used to love the Lord so much, they would be at Yashoda's door at all hours, finding any excuse to see their beloved Nanda Gopal. Mother [[Yashoda]] was very protective of her darling child. Concerned that with all these adoring gopis hanging around her house at all hours of the day, her darling child will never get any time to rest or play properly with his friends. So she decided that all those who wish to visit her beloved Bala Gopal could do so after he had finished a snack or a meal, and was resting before going out again.


====Ritual====
====Ritual====
Taking a legend as his cue, Mahaprabhu [[Vallabhacharya]] decided to open the haveli, his own version of the Nandalay (House / Palace of Nanda, foster father of Krishna), at specific times of the day only. Acharya set aside eight times of the day when the doors of the inner sanctum would be left open for the people to catch a glimpse ("jakhi") of the Lord. Rest of the time, the Lord was allowed to go out and play with His friends—gopas and gopies of Vraj.
Taking a legend as his cue, Mahaprabhu [[Vallabhacharya]] decided to open the haveli, his own version of the Nandalay (House / Palace of Nanda, foster father of Krishna), at specific times of the day only. Acharya set aside eight times of the day when the doors of the inner sanctum would be left open for the people to catch a glimpse ("jakhi") of the Lord. The rest of the time, the Lord was allowed to go out and play with His friends—gopas and gopies of Vraj.


The sequence of '''eight darshans''' are set out below.
The sequence of '''eight darshans''' is set out below.
# '''Mangala''': First darshan of the day. Lord, having woken up, has just had His breakfast and greets his devotees with the most "auspicious" darshan of the day. This darshan usually occurs at dawn.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.singerasifjeriya.com/मंगला-दर्शन-की-भावना/|title=मंगला दर्शन की भावना {{!}} Singer Asif Jeriya|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-02-01}}</ref>
# '''Mangala''': First darshan of the day. Lord, having woken up, has just had His breakfast and greets his devotees with the most "auspicious" darshan of the day. This darshan usually occurs at dawn.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.singerasifjeriya.com/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE-%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%AD%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BE/|title=मंगला दर्शन की भावना {{!}} Singer Asif Jeriya|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-02-01|archive-date=30 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191030022047/http://www.singerasifjeriya.com/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE-%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%80-%E0%A4%AD%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%BE/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
# '''Shringar''': Having bathed and dressed her little darling, Mother Yashoda allows everyone to adore her baby. After this darshan, the Lord goes out to play with His friends.
# '''Shringar''': Having bathed and dressed her little darling, Mother Yashoda allows everyone to adore her baby. After this darshan, the Lord goes out to play with His friends.
# '''Gval''': Having had his mid-morning snack, the Lord is about to go out to herd the cows of Nandaji. Lord is worshipped by reciting His thousand names and the sacred tulsi (basil) leaves are offered with each Name.
# '''Gval''': Having had his mid-morning snack, the Lord is about to go out to herd the cows of Nandaji. Lord is worshipped by reciting His thousand names, and the sacred tulsi (basil) leaves are offered with each Name.
# '''Rajbhog''': After His mid-day meal, the Lord is resting in the comfort of Nanadalay. Lord is often most regal and resplendent for this darshan. Fresh garlands and lotuses are offered to the Lord. During the arti, the Lord plays chopat, an ancient board game or version of chess to while away the hot afternoon.
# '''Rajbhog''': After His mid-day meal, the Lord is resting in the comfort of Nanadalay. Lord is often most regal and resplendent for this darshan. Fresh garlands and lotuses are offered to the Lord. During the arti, the Lord plays chopat, an ancient board game or version of chess to while away the hot afternoon.
# '''Utthanpan''': Lord has just woken up from His afternoon nap.
# '''Utthanpan''': The Lord has just woken up from His afternoon nap.
# '''Bhog''': Having had His afternoon snack, the Lord is about to go out to play again.
# '''Bhog''': Having had His afternoon snack, the Lord is about to go out to play again.
# '''Sandhya''': As the sun dips over the western horizon, the Lord returns with the herds of Nandaji and the gopis come to see their beloved. Mother Yashoda wards off any evil that may have befalled her darling in the woods of Vraj, by doing an arti and the Lord bathes for the evening meal.
# '''Sandhya''': As the sun dips over the western horizon, the Lord returns with the herds of Nandaji, and the gopis come to see their beloved. Mother Yashoda wards off any evil that may have befallen her darling in the woods of Vraj, by doing an art, and the Lord bathes for the evening meal.
# '''Shayan''': Having had His dinner, the Lord is about to go off to his bedchamber. This is the last public darshan of the day.
# '''Shayan''': Having had His dinner, the Lord is about to go off to his bedchamber. This is the last public darshan of the day.


The outline of darshans given above is a general layout. Over the centuries, different Goswamis have interpreted the "bhavas" and "lilas" differently, resulting in a mixture of oral and ritual traditions followed by the various havelies of Pushti Marg. For example, Shrinathji, having left His beloved Vraj, misses it so dearly, that for six months of the year, He runs back to Vraj for the shayan darshan. So, from Mangala to Sandhya arti, the Lord is reckoned to be in Nathadwara. After the arti, He rushes over, in His spiritual form, to play with the gopis of Vraj. Hence, Shayan arti takes place at Mount Govardhan for the warm half of the year. During the cold months, running over to Vraj is not such a practical option, and hence the shayan darshan takes place at Nathadwara. Here the bhava of gopijan’s viraha and Raasa-Rasika’s unique lila are of paramount importance.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.pushti-marg.net/daily.htm|title=Daily}}</ref>
The outline of darshans given above is a general layout. Over the centuries, different Goswamis have interpreted the "bhavas" and "lilas" differently, resulting in a mixture of oral and ritual traditions followed by the various havelies of Pushti Marg. For example, Shrinathji, having left His beloved Vraj, misses it so dearly that for six months of the year, He runs back to Vraj for the shayan darshan. So, from Mangala to Sandhya arti, the Lord is reckoned to be in Nathadwara. After the arti, He rushes over, in His spiritual form, to play with the gopis of Vraj. Hence, Shayan arti takes place at Mount Govardhan for the warm half of the year. During the cold months, running over to Vraj is not such a practical option, and hence the shayan darshan takes place at Nathadwara. Here, the bhava of Gopijan's viraha and Raasa-Rasika's unique lila are of paramount importance.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.pushti-marg.net/daily.htm|title=Daily|website=www.pushti-marg.net}}</ref>


==In art and culture==
==In art and culture==
Shrinathji followers have significant influence on Hindu art in the form of the [[Pichhwai]]s, which are intricate and colourful paintings on cloth, paper, walls and temple hangings which portray Shrinathji. These are devotional textiles that centre on the image of Shrinathji. Nathdwara is the hub of the pichhwai art, [[Nathdwara Painting]]s.
Shrinathji followers have a significant influence on Hindu art in the form of the [[Pichhwai]]s, which are intricate and colourful paintings on cloth, paper, walls, and temple hangings that portray Shrinathji. These are devotional textiles that centre on the image of Shrinathji. Nathdwara is the hub of the pichhwai art, [[Nathdwara Painting]]s.


Nathdwara is known for the Rajasthani style of the city, which is called "pichhwai Paintings" These pichhwai paintings have been painted on the wall around the Nathdwara temple by famous contemporary artists of Nathdwara.
Nathdwara is known for the Rajasthani style of the city, which is called "pichhwai Paintings." These pichhwai paintings have been painted on the wall around the Nathdwara temple by famous contemporary artists of Nathdwara.


==Worship at other places==
==Worship at other places==
Preachers have founded Shrinathji temples in present-day Pakistan (Dera Ghazi Khan), earlier a part of undivided India and not far from Nathdwara. This was done by Shri Lalji Maharaj who was sent to Sindh by Shri Vithalnathji to spread Pushti Marg. Shrinathji is also worshipped at [[Russia]] (in the lower [[Volga]] region) and other places on the Central Asian trade routes. In the [[United States]], there are eleven Shrinathji temples; [[New Haven]], [[Connecticut]], [[Parlin, New Jersey]], [[Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania]], [[Phoenix, Arizona]], one in the midwest, Florida and [http://bayvp.org California], Houston ( Texas), [[Lowell, Massachusetts]] [[Atlanta, Georgia]] [[Charlotte, North Carolina]] [[Baltimore, Maryland]].
Preachers have founded Shrinathji temples in present-day Pakistan (Dera Ghazi Khan), earlier a part of undivided India and not far from Nathdwara. This was done by Shri Lalji Maharaj, who was sent to Sindh by Shri Vithalnathji to spread Pushti Marg. Shrinathji is also worshipped at [[Russia]] (in the lower [[Volga]] region) and other places on the Central Asian trade routes. In the [[United States]], there are eleven Shrinathji temples; [[New Haven]], [[Connecticut]], [[Parlin, New Jersey]], [[Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania]], [[Phoenix, Arizona]], one in the midwest, Florida and [http://bayvp.org California], Houston ( Texas), [[Lowell, Massachusetts]] [[Atlanta, Georgia]] [[Charlotte, North Carolina]] [[Baltimore, Maryland]],  Dallas (Texas) [https://dallashaveli.org/ Shreenath Dham Haveli].


In 2013 the first Shrinathji haveli was inaugurated under the guidance of Shri Dwarkeshlalji (kadi kalol) in Melbourne Australia. Vrajdham Haveli located in Margao, Goa was inaugurated in 2013 for the benefit of all the Vaishnavas residing in Goa.
In 2013, the first Shrinathji haveli was inaugurated under the guidance of Shri Dwarkeshlalji (Kadi Kalol) in Melbourne, Australia. Vrajdham Haveli, located in Margao, Goa, was inaugurated in 2013 for the benefit of all the Vaishnavas residing in Goa.
<ref>http://shrinathjihavelinewhaven.com/index.html {{Dead link|date=March 2022}}</ref><ref>http://www.vraj.org</ref><ref>http://www.dwarkadhishtemple.org</ref><ref>http://www.vsaz.org</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://shrinathjihavelinewhaven.com/index.html |title=ShriNathji Haveli |access-date=21 May 2013 |archive-date=12 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412004959/http://shrinathjihavelinewhaven.com/index.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.vraj.org/|title=Vraj|website=www.vraj.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | title=DWARKADHISH TEMPLE | url=http://www.dwarkadhishtemple.org | access-date=2024-12-29 | website=www.dwarkadhishtemple.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.vsaz.org/|title=IIS Windows Server|website=www.vsaz.org}}</ref>


There is a [[Shrinathji Temple, Bahrain|Shrinathji Temple in Bahrain]], which was constructed in 1817 and is used by the Hindu community of Bahrain.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-visits-200-year-old-hindu-temple-in-bahrain-345224/amp|title=External affairs minister Jaishankar visits 200-year-old Hindu temple in Bahrain|newspaper=Wion|access-date=12 December 2020}}</ref>
There is a [[Shrinathji Temple, Bahrain|Shrinathji Temple in Bahrain]], which was constructed in 1817 and is used by the Hindu community of Bahrain.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-visits-200-year-old-hindu-temple-in-bahrain-345224/amp|title=External affairs minister Jaishankar visits 200-year-old Hindu temple in Bahrain|newspaper=Wion|access-date=12 December 2020}}</ref>
Line 108: Line 90:


==See also==
==See also==
*[[Dwarkadhish Kankroli|Dwarkadhish Ji]]
*[[Charbhuja]]
*[[Charbhuja]]
*[[Kankroli]]
*[[Kankroli]]
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==Further reading==
==Further reading==
*Ambalal, Amit: Krishna as Shrinathji: Rajasthan Paintings from Nathdwara, Mapin, Ahmedabad (1987)
*Ambalal, Amit: Krishna as Shrinathji: Rajasthan Paintings from Nathdwara, Mapin, Ahmedabad (1987)
*Gaston, Anne-Marie: Krishna’s Musicians: Musicians and Music making in the Temples of Nathdvara, Rajasthan, Manohar, New Delhi (1997)
*Gaston, Anne-Marie: Krishna's Musicians: Musicians and Music making in the Temples of Nathdvara, Rajasthan, Manohar, New Delhi (1997)
*Jindel, Rajendra: Culture of a sacred town : a sociological study of Nathdwara, Popular Prakashan, Bombay (1976).
*Jindel, Rajendra: Culture of a sacred town: a sociological study of Nathdwara, Popular Prakashan, Bombay (1976).
*Jones, Constance & James D. Ryan: Encyclopedia of Hinduism [https://books.google.com/books?id=hZET2sSUVsgC&pg=PA422]
*Jones, Constance & James D. Ryan: Encyclopedia of Hinduism [https://books.google.com/books?id=hZET2sSUVsgC&pg=PA422 Critical Companion to George Orwell]
*Lyons, Tryna: The artists of Nathadwara: The practice of painting in Rajasthan, Indiana University Press (2004)
*Lyons, Tryna: The artists of Nathadwara: The practice of painting in Rajasthan, Indiana University Press (2004)
* [https://pushtirang.com PushtiRang.com - Spread Pushtimargiya Articles around the globe via online medium]
* [https://pushtirang.com PushtiRang.com - Spread Pushtimargiya Articles around the globe via online medium] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210103173602/https://pushtirang.com/ |date=3 January 2021 }}


{{Krishna|state=autocollapse}}
{{Krishna|state=autocollapse}}

Latest revision as of 14:59, 19 March 2026


Shrinathji
Painting of Shrinathji, c. 1840
Venerated inPushtimarg
AffiliationKrishnaism-Vaishnavism
RegionNathdwara
TempleShrinathji Temple

Shrinathji is a form of Krishna, manifested as a seven-year-old child.[1] Shrinathji is the central presiding deity of the Vaishnava sect known as Pushtimarg (the way of grace) or the Vallabha Sampradaya, established by saint Vallabhacharya.

Shrinathji is worshipped mainly by followers of Bhakti Yoga and the Vaishnavas in Gujarat and Rajasthan,[2] as well as the Bhatias[3] among others.

Vitthal Nathji,[4] son of Vallabhacharya institutionalised the worship of Shrinathji at Nathdwara.[5] On account of the popularity of Shrinathji, Nathdwara city itself is referred to as ‘Shrinathji’.[6] People also call it Bava's (Shreenathji Bava) Nagri. Initially, the child Krishna deity was referred to as Devadāman ("the conqueror of Gods", referring to the overpowering of Indra by Krishna in the lifting of Govardhan hill).[7] Vallabhacharya named him as Gopala and the place of his worship as ‘Gopalpur’. Later, Vitthal Nathji named the deity as Shrinathji. Shrinathji's seva is performed in 8 parts of the day. The principal shrine of Shrinathji is the Shrinathji Temple in the temple city of Nathdwara, 48 kilometres north-east of Udaipur city in Rajasthan, India.

History[edit | edit source]

According to the legend, the icon of Shrinathji self-manifested from stone and emerged from Govardhan Hill. Historically, the image of Shrinathji was first worshipped at Govardhan hill, near Mathura.[8] The image was initially shifted from Mathura in 1672 A.D. along river Yamuna and was retained at Agra for almost six months, to safeguard it from, according to legend, the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, who wanted to destroy the idol.[9] Subsequently, the image was transferred further south on a chariot to a safer place to protect it from the iconoclasm of Aurangzeb.[10] When the icon reached the spot at village Sihad or Sinhad in Mewar, the wheels of the chariot are said to have sunken into the mud and could not be moved any further. The accompanying priests realized that the place was the Shrinathji's chosen spot and, accordingly, the icon was installed in a temple there under the rule and protection of the then Maharana Raj Singh of Mewar. No other Hindu ruler was ready to take the image into his kingdom, as it would mean opposing Aurangzeb, who was the most intolerant man in India at that time.[11]

In the anomical environment of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the temple of Shrinathji was attacked by the Medas and the Pindaris. Accordingly, the icon was shifted again and was protected at Udaipur and Ghasiyar under the patronage of Maharana Bheem Singh of Mewar.

Nathdwara Temple or Haveli[edit | edit source]

Main article: Shrinathji Temple
Gate of the Shrinathji Temple

The Nathdwara temple was built in the 17th century.[12] The temple is popularly called Shrinathji ki Haveli (House of Shrinathji). Like a regular mansion, it has a chariot for movement (the original chariot in which Shrinathji was brought to Singhar), a store room for milk (Doodhghar), a store room for betel (Paanghar), a store room for sugar and sweets (Mishrighar and Pedaghar), a store room for flowers (Phoolghar), a functional kitchen (Rasoighar), a jewellery chamber (Gahnaghar), a treasury (Kharcha bhandaar), a stable for horses of the chariot (Ashvashala), a drawing room (Baithak), a gold and silver grinding wheel (Chakki).

Nathdwara is known as the "Vraj" of western India. Over 100,000 Hindus visit Nathdwara in a year.[citation needed]

Icon at Nathdwara[edit | edit source]

Nathdwara Srinathji at representing the autumn Annakuta Festival. Late 18th century.

The icon is carved in bas-relief out of a monolithic black marble stone,[5] with images of two cows, one lion, one snake, two peacocks, and one parrot engraved on it and three sages placed near it. The icon of Shrinathji wears exquisitely worked jewels, some dating back to the pre-Mughal period.[13]

Shrinathji is adorned with intricately woven shaneels and silk clothes having original zari and embroidery works. The icon changes its clothes (vastra) eight times a day. During festive days like Janmashtmi, Holi, and Diwali, the icon wears dresses which are woven with gold wires and diamond-studded embroidery. Once worn, the clothes are not reused, but given to devotees.

Festivals and rituals at the temple[edit | edit source]

The Shrinathji temple at Nathdwara celebrates, on average, three festivals in a week.[13] As regards daily routine, the inner sanctum is opened 8 times a day for devotees to undertake sacred darshan of the deity. Very elaborate and complex rituals have emerged around the worship of Shrinathji due to confluence and inter-mixing of bhakti of Krishna as well as that of Pushti Margi Shri Vallabhacharya.[14]

The main attractions of Shrinathji are the Aartis and the Shringar, i.e., the dressing and beautifying of the icon of Shrinathji, treating it as a living child, adorning it with the appropriate dresses commensurate with the time of day or night. The formal prayers are offered with diya, flowers, fruit, and other offerings, with local instruments and devotional songs of the Shrinathji, according to the demand of the time and occasion. The view of the icon after the parda (curtain) is removed is called jhakhi.

The gadipatis and acharyas in the Havelis of Shrinathji are believed to be from the kul (descendants) of Shri Mahaprabhuji, Vallabhacharya, the founder of this deity's icon at Govardhan hill, near Mathura. Presently, Shrinathji is worshipped by priests from this kul (genealogical descendants) of Vallabh Acharya. In the rest of the world, a Gurjar of a special sect who has initiation and agya (permission) performs the worship of Shrinathji.

Devotees throng to the shrine in large numbers during occasions of Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Sharad Purnima, Holi, and Diwali. The deity is treated like a living image, and is attended with daily normal functions, like bathing, dressing, meals called "Prasad", and resting times in regular intervals. Since the deity is believed to be a child form of Krishna, special care is taken and attention is given to the deity, in the same way a mother would to her child.

Krishna Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Krishna, is celebrated with the salute of cannons and guns at Nathdwara temple of Shrinathji in Rajasthan.

People not only from the internal regions of Rajasthan but also from Gujarat and Maharashtra visit Nathdwara to witness Krishna's seraphic festival. Here, important arrangements are made by the temple trust for security at the police and administrative levels. The temple is decorated with attractive lighting for the festival. The entire city of Nathdwara reverberates owing to the melodious sound of the drum, trumpet, and clarinet at the main entrance of the temple. A series of congratulatory exchanges began pouring in a month earlier, from the Ashtami of Shravan of the Krishna. According to the confirmation order, Shri Krishna Janmotsav is not celebrated as a public exhibition at night, but on the second day, as the Nandamahotsav, that is, by affirming 'Nand Gher Anand Bhayo, Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki’ in the presence of Tilakayat Maharaj Shree and his family, Brajvasi Sevakgan (Brigadian staff), Mukhiyaji (Headman), and Shrinathji along with spattering of milk and curd while dancing in front of them.

Daily ritual of 8 darshans[edit | edit source]

Legend[edit | edit source]

The gopikas of Vraj used to love the Lord so much, they would be at Yashoda's door at all hours, finding any excuse to see their beloved Nanda Gopal. Mother Yashoda was very protective of her darling child. Concerned that with all these adoring gopis hanging around her house at all hours of the day, her darling child will never get any time to rest or play properly with his friends. So she decided that all those who wish to visit her beloved Bala Gopal could do so after he had finished a snack or a meal, and was resting before going out again.

Ritual[edit | edit source]

Taking a legend as his cue, Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya decided to open the haveli, his own version of the Nandalay (House / Palace of Nanda, foster father of Krishna), at specific times of the day only. Acharya set aside eight times of the day when the doors of the inner sanctum would be left open for the people to catch a glimpse ("jakhi") of the Lord. The rest of the time, the Lord was allowed to go out and play with His friends—gopas and gopies of Vraj.

The sequence of eight darshans is set out below.

  1. Mangala: First darshan of the day. Lord, having woken up, has just had His breakfast and greets his devotees with the most "auspicious" darshan of the day. This darshan usually occurs at dawn.[15]
  2. Shringar: Having bathed and dressed her little darling, Mother Yashoda allows everyone to adore her baby. After this darshan, the Lord goes out to play with His friends.
  3. Gval: Having had his mid-morning snack, the Lord is about to go out to herd the cows of Nandaji. Lord is worshipped by reciting His thousand names, and the sacred tulsi (basil) leaves are offered with each Name.
  4. Rajbhog: After His mid-day meal, the Lord is resting in the comfort of Nanadalay. Lord is often most regal and resplendent for this darshan. Fresh garlands and lotuses are offered to the Lord. During the arti, the Lord plays chopat, an ancient board game or version of chess to while away the hot afternoon.
  5. Utthanpan: The Lord has just woken up from His afternoon nap.
  6. Bhog: Having had His afternoon snack, the Lord is about to go out to play again.
  7. Sandhya: As the sun dips over the western horizon, the Lord returns with the herds of Nandaji, and the gopis come to see their beloved. Mother Yashoda wards off any evil that may have befallen her darling in the woods of Vraj, by doing an art, and the Lord bathes for the evening meal.
  8. Shayan: Having had His dinner, the Lord is about to go off to his bedchamber. This is the last public darshan of the day.

The outline of darshans given above is a general layout. Over the centuries, different Goswamis have interpreted the "bhavas" and "lilas" differently, resulting in a mixture of oral and ritual traditions followed by the various havelies of Pushti Marg. For example, Shrinathji, having left His beloved Vraj, misses it so dearly that for six months of the year, He runs back to Vraj for the shayan darshan. So, from Mangala to Sandhya arti, the Lord is reckoned to be in Nathadwara. After the arti, He rushes over, in His spiritual form, to play with the gopis of Vraj. Hence, Shayan arti takes place at Mount Govardhan for the warm half of the year. During the cold months, running over to Vraj is not such a practical option, and hence the shayan darshan takes place at Nathadwara. Here, the bhava of Gopijan's viraha and Raasa-Rasika's unique lila are of paramount importance.[16]

In art and culture[edit | edit source]

Shrinathji followers have a significant influence on Hindu art in the form of the Pichhwais, which are intricate and colourful paintings on cloth, paper, walls, and temple hangings that portray Shrinathji. These are devotional textiles that centre on the image of Shrinathji. Nathdwara is the hub of the pichhwai art, Nathdwara Paintings.

Nathdwara is known for the Rajasthani style of the city, which is called "pichhwai Paintings." These pichhwai paintings have been painted on the wall around the Nathdwara temple by famous contemporary artists of Nathdwara.

Worship at other places[edit | edit source]

Preachers have founded Shrinathji temples in present-day Pakistan (Dera Ghazi Khan), earlier a part of undivided India and not far from Nathdwara. This was done by Shri Lalji Maharaj, who was sent to Sindh by Shri Vithalnathji to spread Pushti Marg. Shrinathji is also worshipped at Russia (in the lower Volga region) and other places on the Central Asian trade routes. In the United States, there are eleven Shrinathji temples; New Haven, Connecticut, Parlin, New Jersey, Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, Phoenix, Arizona, one in the midwest, Florida and California, Houston ( Texas), Lowell, Massachusetts Atlanta, Georgia Charlotte, North Carolina Baltimore, Maryland, Dallas (Texas) Shreenath Dham Haveli.

In 2013, the first Shrinathji haveli was inaugurated under the guidance of Shri Dwarkeshlalji (Kadi Kalol) in Melbourne, Australia. Vrajdham Haveli, located in Margao, Goa, was inaugurated in 2013 for the benefit of all the Vaishnavas residing in Goa. [17][18][19][20]

There is a Shrinathji Temple in Bahrain, which was constructed in 1817 and is used by the Hindu community of Bahrain.[21]

There is a shrine dedicated to Shrinathji in the Hindu Temple complex in Dubai, UAE.

See also[edit | edit source]

References and notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Lutzker, Mary-Ann (1988). "Book Review: "Krishna as Shrinathji: Rajasthani Paintings from Nathdvara" by Amit Ambalal, for Journal of the American Academy of Religion, June, 1988". Journal of the American Academy of Religion. 56 (4): 765–767. doi:10.1093/jaarel/LVI.4.765. JSTOR 1464465.
  2. ↑ "Mewar Encyclopedia". Archived from the original on 26 July 2011.
  3. ↑ "Bhatia Community Mission Foundation (Bhatia Community All Clicks)". Archived from the original on 28 June 2019. Retrieved 24 February 2017.
  4. ↑ Datta, Amaresh (14 April 1987). Encyclopaedia of Indian Literature: A-Devo. Sahitya Akademi. ISBN 978-81-260-1803-1 – via Google Books.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 "Blessingsonthenet". www.blessingsonthenet.com. Archived from the original on 29 September 2011.
  6. ↑ Shrinathji Temple Nathdwara
  7. ↑ "Yatra 2 Yatra". Yatra2Yatra. 14 April 2009 – via Google Books.
  8. ↑ Vaśishṭha, Rādhākr̥shṇa (14 April 1995). Art and Artists of Rajasthan: A Study on the Art & Artists of Mewar with Reference to Western Indian School of Painting. Abhinav Publications. ISBN 978-81-7017-284-0 – via Google Books.
  9. ↑ Richards, John F. (14 April 1993). The Mughal Empire. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-0-521-56603-2 – via Google Books.
  10. ↑ Abram, David; Guides (Firm), Rough (14 April 2003). The Rough Guide to India. Rough Guides. ISBN 978-1-84353-089-3 – via Google Books.
  11. ↑ Maharana Raj Singh and His Times pg 29
  12. ↑ "Nathdwara Temple- Shrinathji Temple Nathdwara, Shrinathji Temple Nathdwara Rajasthan, Shrinathji Temple India". www.udaipur.org.uk.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 Kapoor, Subodh (14 April 2002). Indian Encyclopaedia. Cosmo Publications. ISBN 978-81-7755-257-7 – via Google Books.
  14. ↑ Blurton, T. Richard (14 April 1993). Hindu Art. Harvard University Press. ISBN 978-0-674-39189-5 – via Google Books.
  15. ↑ "मंगला दर्शन की भावना | Singer Asif Jeriya". Archived from the original on 30 October 2019. Retrieved 1 February 2019.
  16. ↑ "Daily". www.pushti-marg.net.
  17. ↑ "ShriNathji Haveli". Archived from the original on 12 April 2013. Retrieved 21 May 2013.
  18. ↑ "Vraj". www.vraj.org.
  19. ↑ "DWARKADHISH TEMPLE". www.dwarkadhishtemple.org. Retrieved 29 December 2024.
  20. ↑ "IIS Windows Server". www.vsaz.org.
  21. ↑ "External affairs minister Jaishankar visits 200-year-old Hindu temple in Bahrain". Wion. Retrieved 12 December 2020.

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