The Banke Bihari Mandir is one of the most well-known and respected churches dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is located in the holy city of Vrindavan in the Mathura area of Uttar Pradesh, India.
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History of Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan
The temple’s history dates back to 1864 when it was built in the 1800s. The great saint and artist Swami Haridas, a devoted follower of Lord Krishna has much to do with the temple. Swami Haridas loved music very much and learned from Saint Tansen the famous court guitarist for Emperor Akbar.
Legend has it that Lord Krishna came to Swami Haridas as a little boy and would often listen to his beautiful music. People think that Lord Krishna blessed Swami Haridas and gave him the goddess Banke Bihari which was later put in the temple.
Since its construction, Banke Bihari Mandir has become an important place for Lord Krishna followers to visit. In the unique custom of Phool Bangla Seva, the temple is known for the beautiful building made of flowers surrounding the god. People from all over the world come to the temple to worship because it has a very holy and peaceful atmosphere.
Banke Bihari Temple Vrindavan Timings
The temple has set times for people to pray to Lord Krishna and ask for his benefits. Here are the times for different ceremonies and visits at Banke Bihari Mandir:
- Mangala Aarti: This early morning ceremony happens at 8:00 AM and marks the first time people see the goddess.
- Shringar Aarti: This lovely decorating event is held at 9:00 AM.
- Rajbhog Aarti: The noon offering ritual takes place at noon.
- Gwal Aarti: This evening, Aarti begins at about 6:30 PM and draws a
a big crowd of believers.
Sandhya Aarti: The evening Aarti is held at 7:30 PM, accompanied by devotional music and chanting.
Resting time for Thakur Ji: Lord Krishna rests in the temple from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
- Shayan Aarti: This is the last Aarti of the day, which means that Lord Krishna is going to bed for the night. It takes place at 9:30 PM.
Please remember that these times may change on holidays and other special days. People who want to ensure they don’t miss any holy practices should check the times before they go.
How To Reach Banke Bihari Temple Vrindavan
The Banke Bihari Mandir is in the middle of Vrindavan which is very handy. If you want to get to the temple you can take any of the following options:
By Air
The closest airport to Vrindavan is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. This airport has good connections to many big places around the world. You can take a bus or a cab from the airport to Vrindavan. Delhi and Vrindavan are about 180 kilometers apart. It takes about 4 hours to drive between the two cities.
By Train
The Vrindavan Junction is the name of the train stop in Vrindavan. However, it doesn’t have a lot of train connections. Another option is to go to the Mathura Junction train stop only 10 km from Vrindavan. To get to Banke Bihari Mandir in Vrindavan from Mathura you can take a bus, a cab or an auto rickshaw.
By Road
Vrindavan is easy to get to by car and the UPSRTC runs daily bus services from Delhi Agra Mathura and other nearby places. If you have a car you can also drive to Vrindavan. National Highway 44 makes it easy to get to the city.
Local Transportation
Once you get to Vrindavan the best way to get around is to take a cycle rickshaw an e rickshaw or an auto rickshaw all of which are easy to find all over the city. These types of transportation are great for getting through Vrindavan’s tiny streets, the Banke Bihari Mandir, and other well-known temples and sights.
For people who love Lord Krishna, going to the Banke Bihari Mandir in Vrindavan is a psychologically uplifting experience that they must have. With its long history, holy atmosphere, and special ceremonies, the temple is a reminder of the love and loyalty that its followers have shown for hundreds of years.
Festivals And Celebrations
Banke Bihari Mandir is the site of many big celebrations during the Lord Krishna holidays. Here are some of the most important events that are celebrated:
Janmashtami
Over a thousand followers come to the temple to celebrate Lord Krishna’s birth. The temple is decorated with lights, flowers, and other bright decorations, and special ceremonies and shows take place all day and night.
Radhashtami
On this festival day Radha Lord Krishna, eternal wife, comes out to play. Religious people go to the temple to ask Radha Rani to bless them and to sing and dance spiritually.
Holi
The Banke Bihari Mandir is a happy and lively place to enjoy Holi, a holiday of colors. Religious people get together to throw colored powders, sing and dance in a happy mood just like Radha and Krishna do.
Jhulan Yatra
This event takes place in the month of Shravana which is July or August. Humans are covered with beautiful patterns and Radha and Krishna statues are placed on them. Many people ask for divine gifts and take turns hitting the gods.
Annakoot
During this holiday people give food to the gods to thank them for the excellent harvest. A mound of food is made and set in front of the gods. The blessed food is then given to the worshipers.
Tips For Visiting Banke Bihari Mandir
- Dress code: When you go to the temple it is best to dress quietly and carefully. Men should wear shirts and pants and women should wear skirts or other clothes that cover their bodies appropriately. Do not wear shorts or dresses that show a lot of skin.
- Avoid weekends and peak hours: The temple sees more devotees on weekends and during festival seasons. If you want a calmer and more peaceful experience you might want to go during the week or when it is not as busy.
- Respect Temple Traditions: Take off your shoes before entering the temple and be aware of the routines and traditions the priests and followers follow. During darshan looking at the god keep quiet and don’t talk about other things or get distracted.
- Limits on Photography: Taking pictures inside the temple is usually not allowed. Please respect the sacred space and not take shots unless specifically told to.
Be Respectful: Treat people with respect when you’re inside the building. Ensure your phone is quiet and don’t talk too loudly.
- Participate in Rituals: If possible participate in the rituals and make
offerings. This improves the mental experience.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Lightly: Bring some water and small snacks with you if you’ll be there for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What Is The Time Of Banke Bihari Temple?
The Banke Bihari Temple is usually open from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
What Is The Time Of Darshan In Vrindavan
Darshan times vary from temple to temple in Vrindavan but most are open from early morning to late evening or from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is Banke Bihari Temple Crowded?
If you want to avoid crowds it is best to visit the Banke Bihari Temple during non busy times such as holidays and the weekend.
Is Banke Bihari In Mathura Or Vrindavan?
The Banke Bihari Temple is in Vrindavan near Mathura.