Khatu Shyam Mandir is one of the most pious temples in India. Every year, a large number of devotees from across the country and abroad visit this spiritual destination. They display their devotion to lord Khatu Shyam Ji and connect themselves to spirituality. Here, people worship Barbarika- the grandson of Bhima, as Khatu Shyam Ji. As per ancient Hindu mythology, Barbarika offered his head to lord Krishna before the Kurukshetra War. Krishna blessed him as Khatu Shyam. Let’s know more about it in detail.
History of Shree Khatu Shyam Mandir
Khatu Shyam Ji temple is a very important place in Hinduism. It is located in the Sikar district of Rajasthan. Because of its historical and mythical importance, it is a symbol of faith for a large number of Hindus.
This temple is more than 1000 years old. It was built during the Mahabharata period. At that time, Barbarika was famous as a brave warrior and worshiped as Khatu Shyam Ji. He had great skills in archery and was famous for defeating enemies during the Mahabharata war.
Barbarika was the son of Ghatotkach and the grandson of Bhima. He had three Abodh Baans (arrows) with super power. They would hit any target and return in case the target was missed.
Barbarika got permission from her to join the Mahabharata War. But she instructed him to fight the war from the weaker side. This suggestion led him to be recognized as a divine being. It helped him earn the name Hare Ka Sahara.
This temple is more than 1000 years old. It was built during the Mahabharata period. At that time, Barbarika was famous as a brave warrior and worshiped as Khatu Shyam Ji. He had great skills in archery and was famous for defeating enemies during the Mahabharata war.
Barbarika was the son of Ghatotkach and the grandson of Bhima. He had three Abodh Baans (arrows) with super power. They would hit any target and return in case the target was missed.
Barbarika got permission from her to join the Mahabharata War. But she instructed him to fight the war from the weaker side. This suggestion led him to be recognized as a divine being. It helped him earn the name Hare Ka Sahara.
The temple was renovated multiple times. The present-day Shree Khatu Shyam Mandir holds great importance in Rajasthan.
The Legendary Story of Khatu Shyam Ji
As detailed earlier, Barbarika took an oath to fight for the weaker side. Lord Krisha was aware of his amazing fighting capabilities and the consequences of his decision. So, he took the appearance of a Brahmin and demanded Barbarika’s head as guru dakshina (teacher's fee). Without any hesitation, he sacrificed his head.
Pleased with his sacrifice, Lord Krishna said that in Kali Yuga (the age of darkness), people will worship Barbarika as Shyam, his other name. So, Barbarika became Khatu Shyam Ji- the god of all those people who have faith in humanity and surrender.
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Pleased with his sacrifice, Lord Krishna said that in Kali Yuga (the age of darkness), people will worship Barbarika as Shyam, his other name. So, Barbarika became Khatu Shyam Ji- the god of all those people who have faith in humanity and surrender.
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Architecture of Khatu Shyam Ji Temple
The Khatu Shyam Ji Temple is built with Makrana marble. In the pious place of the mandir, there is a Shyam Baba idol. It is decorated with beautiful garlands, silver ornaments, and big turbans. The entrance gate, marble flooring, and prayer hall display the Rajasthani temple's elegance.
Main Idol- It is made of a rare stone. It is believed that it was retrieved from a pond in Khatu.
Shyam Kund- It is a pious pond. As per beliefs, it has healing powers.
Gaurishankar Temple- It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
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Devotional Practices & Rituals
People consider Khatu Shyam Ji as “Haare Ka Sahara” (the supporter of the defeated), “Teen Baan Dhaari" (the wielder of three arrows), and “Leela Ke Aswar” (the lord of divine play). They engage in various devotional practices and rituals.
Bathing in Shyam Kund
Before darshan, most devotees take a bath in this pious pond. It is believed to have healing power that purifies the soul.
Mangla Aarti (Early Morning Prayer)
It is held daily before sunrise (around 4–5 AM). A good number of people participate in it & engage in bhajans and chants. It is considered the most pious aarti of the day.
Offering Prasad
Devotees offer prasad (pious food) to the god and distribute it among people.
Decorating the Idol of Khatu Shyam Ji
Devotees decorate the Khatu Shyam Ji Murti with fresh flowers, royal turbans, jewelry, and scented sandalwood paste. They do it as a token of goodwill to others and to fulfill their wishes.
Daan (Charity)
Many people offer free food and organize bhandara ( free meals) for devotees at the temple. They also distribute clothes and money to needy devotees. It is considered a pious act.
Naam Jaap (Chanting the Name)
Several devotees carry Japa malas (prayer beads) & they chant Shyam Shyam or Khatu Shyam Ji Ki Jai during their visit to the temple. They consider it pious and a way to immerse oneself in devotion.
Mannat (Wish Fulfillment)
Many devotees visit Khatu Shyam Mandir to make a wish to the god. Usually, they tie a thread and leave a symbolic offering for this. Once their wish is fulfilled, they visit the temple once again, thank the god, organize pujas, and distribute prasad among devotees.
It does not matter whether you are a first-time visitor or an ardent devotee; participating in these rituals is of great importance. You can express your devotion, surrender, and gratitude toward the Khatu Shyam Baba.
It does not matter whether you are a first-time visitor or an ardent devotee; participating in these rituals is of great importance. You can express your devotion, surrender, and gratitude toward the Khatu Shyam Baba.
Festivals Celebrated at Khatu Shyam Ji Temple
Falgun Mela
It is organized in Phalgun (February–March). As it marks the appearance of Shyam Baba, it attracts a large number of devotees. During this period, they decorate the temple beautifully and engage with bhajans, kirtans, and all-night “Jagrans”. Moreover, they walk barefoot for miles to devote themselves to the god. Special aartis, bhandaras (free meals), and ritual baths in Shyam Kund are also organized. You need to prepare early for this mela and arrive early to avoid last-minute difficulties.
Janmashtami
Devotees celebrate Janmashtami with great devotion at Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir & honor the Lord Krishna’s birth. They decorate the temple with flowers, lights, and traditional decorative designs.
Furthermore, they perform special aartis, bhajans, and Krishna Leela sessions throughout the night. People keep fasting, sing devotional songs, and watch the midnight birth celebration of Lord Krishna. They decorate the Shyam Baba’s idol like baby Krishna. Devotees of all ages immerse themselves in a deep spiritual and festive atmosphere during the celebration.
Furthermore, they perform special aartis, bhajans, and Krishna Leela sessions throughout the night. People keep fasting, sing devotional songs, and watch the midnight birth celebration of Lord Krishna. They decorate the Shyam Baba’s idol like baby Krishna. Devotees of all ages immerse themselves in a deep spiritual and festive atmosphere during the celebration.
Ekadashi & Dwadashi
During Ekadashi and Dwadashi, a large number of devotees visit Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir and participate in darshan and aartis. Many people observe fast, offer tulsi leaves, and chant Shyam Baba’s name throughout the day. It is believed that all these bring blessings, cleanse sins, and fulfill their wishes.
Conclusion
Khatu Shyam Mandir is a famous temple that symbolizes devotion, sacrifice, and divine love. People visit here throughout the year to showcase their faith in the Khatu Shyam Ji, wash their sins away, and seek his blessings. Whether you travel alone, with friends, or family members, plan early and follow the customs. It will help to have a wonderful and unforgettable spiritual journey. Get lord Krishna and Shiva idols from Cottage9. We have a rich collection of idols and paintings that will meet your needs.
