Devoid of any kind of pompous architectural design, the Banke Bihari Temple of Vrindavan shines in his devotion and spiritual glory. It has been stated that its origins can be dated back to the 16th century when, Swami Haridas, a greatest krishna devotee and Tansen’s guru, found the Banke Bihari Ji idol in Nidhivan. This a sacred grove have been worship until the present temple in 1864 constructed by the followers of Swami haridas. Since its conception, they have expanded the temple multiple times due to the increase in the influx of people coming in to pray.
The idol of Banke Bihari has a great importance in understanding as it emerged directly from the divine Leelaa of Lord Krishna and Radha. According to the Brijbaani, the deities were once invoked by the great saint Swami Haridas by singing which the god and goddess combined to form one statue of Lord Banke Bihari. The name “Banke Bihari” itself is rich in meaning: “Banke” stands for the enchanting form of Krishna which has bent at three points like the flute held in mouth, the waist bent to one side as well as the legs to depict dancing posture; while “Bihari” represents the enjoyer of the enchanting form or the enjoyer of Radha ji’s love. This makes the deity itself seem more charming and playful, which is perfectly shown through this character of Krishna.
For Hindus, Banke Bihari Temple is an important holy place; the deity that is worshipped here is Lord Krishna. The faithful flock here in their pursuit of spiritual benediction and pleasure through the auspicious vision, or darshan, of Banke Bihari. This temple is one of the many places of pilgrimage at Vrindavan where the other famous temples include the Nidhi Van Temple, Radha raman Temple, Radha Vallabh Temple and the ISKCON Temple.
Temple Architecture
The temple depicts traditional architecture of Rajasthan state of India with fine carving work on stones and wooden door.
The central part of the temple is considered the Garbh Gruh where the idol of Banke Bihari is placed. Through a representation of mainly garments and jewelry, the figure is finely dressed and is only shown to the disciples behind a veil that is sometimes pulled aside since the gazing of the idol is said to be quite powerful to the devotees.
The huge open yard in-front of the temple is enough to provide space for a large number of persons. The walls are decorated with paintings and sculptures that depict major events of Lord Krishna’s life which in turn gives a colourful and pious touch to the temple.
The temple’s customs are different also from other temples; the deity is offered awakening with peacock feather fan and the sound of the flute instead of ringing a bell or blowing a conch. It says that darshan can be on morning, afternoon, and evening, and each of them involves different practices and gifts.
The temple is open from 7:45 AM to 12:00 PM and from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. On special occasions, these timings may vary.
The temple is famous for its elaborate bonanza of Holi festival; devotees of this temple smear colors, sing and dance. The birthday of Lord Krishna or the Janmashtami is equally popular and is quite rituals with music, lights and decorations, kirtans, midnight Arti.
It is especially advised to visit Vrindavan and Banke Bihari Temple in the months of October to March because the climate remains cool and favourable. The highlight of the temple is during festival seasons like holi, janmashtam and radhashtami.
How to Reach
By Air: The closest airport that can be used is the Indira Gandhi International Airport of New Delhi which is located 150 kilometers away. From there, taxi’s or buses are available for the onward journey to Vrindavan.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Mathura Junction, which is approximately 12 km away from Vrindavan, Mathura having railway link with most of the places in India including regular trains for short distance.
By Road: The nearest access to Vrindavan is through road transport through buses and taxis from Mathura and nearby cities like Agra & Delhi etc.
The Banke Bihari Temple on the outskirts of the city is not merely a place of worship but a pious mission. These many and diverse features, shaping long history and rich culture, render this place unmissable for everyone in search for the divine grace of Krishna in his joyous and mischievous mood.