Where Shree Nath Ji’s Glory Shines?

Nathdwara is a divine city located in the lap of the Aravali mountain ranges of Rajasthan. This is not an ordinary city but the land of Shri Nath ji’s leela. Such a land, where the sweet echo of the child form of Lord Shri Krishna is heard in every stone, every lane, and every wind. Here every morning begins with the chant of “Jai Shri Nath ji ki.” Shrinath ji is the center of the life of devotees. 

Whoever comes to Nathdwara once returns home not with empty hands, but with a full bag and a full heart. Who is Shrinath ji? Shrinath ji is the child form of Lord Shri Krishna, who has Govardhan mountain in one hand, and the other hand rests on his waist. 

This form is a symbol of that leela when, in Dwapar Yuga, to shatter the pride of Indra, Shri Krishna had protected the people of Braj by lifting Govardhan mountain. This form was established in Nathdwara as Govardhandhari Nath, and devotees call him Nath Baba or Shri Ji.

History of Shrinathji

The original idol of Shrinathji appeared in Jatipura (Uttar Pradesh) near Govardhan mountain. But when there was a fear of damage to the idol during the Mughal invasion, the sevayats of the tradition of Goswami Shri Vallabhacharya decided to take the idol to a safe place.

After a journey of several months, when this holy idol reached the Mewar region of Rajasthan, the wheel of the chariot got stuck near the Srimool pond on the way. Despite many efforts, the chariot did not move forward, then it was considered to be the wish of Shrinathji, and a grand temple was built here by Maharana Raj Singh in 1672 AD (Samvat 1728). This place is today called Nathdwara—that is, ‘Nath ka Dwara,’ the gate of God’s entry.

Shrinathji Temple

The temple of Nathdwara is a unique example of Vaishnav tradition. This temple is not only rich in architecture but is also a living embodiment of devotion. There are 8 tableaux here in a day—Mangala, Shringar, Gwal, Rajbhog, Utthaapan, Bhog, Sandhya Aarti, and Shayan.

In every tableau, Shrinathji is decorated with different clothes and ornaments. Each tableau shows a new leela.

Krishnamay Dhara

The city of Nathdwara is living devotional music. The streets here, the temple bells, the paintings, and Govindji’s flute—all these together create a spiritual melody. The service work of Shrinathji is completely run by the Vallabh sect. This sect believes that serving God, feeding him, dressing him, and playing music—all these are the highest expressions of love for God.

The atmosphere of Nathdwara is completely Krishna-filled. As soon as you walk around the streets here, you feel a different kind of energy. As if Shri Krishna himself is dancing with the gopis. The idols of Shrinathji being sold in the markets, the rows of prasad near the temple, and the shops selling Pichwai paintings—everything gives the feeling of a spiritual fair. The specialty here is the ‘Annakoot Utsav,’ when thousands of types of dishes are offered to the Lord. On that day, the temple smells only of Mahaprasad and a flood of devotees pours in.

Pichwai Art

Nathdwara is also famous for Pichwai painting. This is a type of traditional painting which is based on the tableaux of Shrinathji, seasons and festivals. These handmade artworks on cloth are famous all over the world. Which are easily available in the market near the temple. These artworks are an expression of devotion. The artists’ love for Lord Krishna is reflected in every color and every picture.

Travel and Devotion

Every year lakhs of devotees come to Nathdwara. Some come on foot, some prostrate themselves, and some come with their family, carrying their wishes. Those who come here do not need any big assurance. A glimpse of Shrinathji can overcome all the obstacles in their lives. Special festivals are celebrated here on Rath Yatra, Gopashtami, Janmashtami and Diwali. On these festivals, the entire city is decorated as if Dwarka has come alive again.

The Special Significance of Janmashtami

The festival of Janmashtami is celebrated with immense splendor and devotion in Nathdwara. On this day, the entire city is immersed in the joy of Shri Krishna’s birth celebration. The temple is specially decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees stay awake all night, eagerly awaiting the Lord’s birth. 

At midnight, when Shri Krishna is born, the temple complex echoes with the chants of “Nand ghar anand bhayo, Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki.” Special tableaux are arranged on this occasion, and devotees express their joy through dance and music. This day makes Nathdwara’s spiritual atmosphere even more divine.

A Land That Touches Soul

The experience of visiting Nathdwara is not just about seeing the temple; it is a spiritual journey. People come here to meet themselves, communicate with God, and touch their inner feelings. It is said about Nathdwara, “In Nathdwara, one does not just get darshan; one gets a vision that shows the path of life.”

Nathdwara is a pilgrimage place where a living link of love is present in the form of Shrinathji. This city, this temple, these streets, the air here—everything seems to immerse the heart of the devotee in the love of Shri Krishna.

If you have not had darshan of Shrinathji in your life, then understand that your soul is still waiting for that sweet call—

Come to Vallabhkunj, Nath is calling you.