Dwarka & Dwarkadhish Temple: A Divine Pilgrimage to the 108 Divya Desam Shrine

Dwarka, one of the most sacred cities in India, holds an irreplaceable place in Hindu mythology. It is home to the revered Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, also known as Dwarkadhish or the King of Dwarka. This temple is also one of the 108 Divya Desams, the sacred Vishnu temples praised in the Divya Prabandham, a collection of Tamil hymns by Alvar saints.

This article delves deep into the history, significance, deity, temple timings, and rituals associated with the Dwarkadhish Temple.

1. Introduction to Dwarka: The Kingdom of Lord Krishna

Dwarka, located in Gujarat, India, is one of the seven Moksha Puris (sacred cities for liberation). According to Hindu texts, Lord Krishna established Dwarka after leaving Mathura to escape constant attacks from Kansa’s allies. He transformed it into a grand city, often described as the Golden City, and ruled it as a king.

Dwarka is also one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, along with Badrinath, Puri, and Rameswaram. The city's religious significance makes it a prime destination for devotees.

2. Dwarkadhish Temple: A Sacred Divya Desam Shrine

The Dwarkadhish Temple, also called the Jagat Mandir, is the spiritual heart of Dwarka. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, revered as Dwarkadhish (King of Dwarka). This temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, making it a crucial pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites.

2.1 The Deity of Dwarkadhish Temple

  • The presiding deity is Lord Krishna, worshipped as Dwarkadhish.

  • The black-marble idol of Krishna is around 2.25 feet tall.

  • The idol represents Tribhanga Krishna (Krishna standing in a tribhanga posture with a flute).

  • The temple also houses Rukmini Devi's shrine, the principal queen of Lord Krishna.

2.2 Importance in 108 Divya Desams

  • Divya Desams are 108 temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

  • Dwarkadhish Temple is praised in Divya Prabandham, composed by Alvar saints.

  • The temple is also associated with Jagannath Puri, as Krishna's presence connects both.

3. History of Dwarkadhish Temple

The history of Dwarkadhish Temple is rich and spans thousands of years. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was originally built by Vajranabha, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna. The current structure, however, dates back to the 16th century.

3.1 Ancient Legends & Mythology

  • Mahabharata and Harivamsa Purana mention Dwarka as Krishna’s capital.

  • Vajranabha, Krishna’s great-grandson, built the first temple over 2,500 years ago.

  • The city of Dwarka is believed to have been submerged in the sea after Krishna’s departure.

  • Archaeological evidence suggests submerged structures off Dwarka’s coast, supporting this claim.

3.2 Architectural Marvel of Dwarkadhish Temple

  • The five-storied temple, built with limestone, stands at 78 meters.

  • The Shikhar (spire) is adorned with a 56-foot flag that is changed five times a day.

  • It has two main entrances – Swarga Dwar (Gate to Heaven) and Moksha Dwar (Gate of Liberation).

3.3 Muslim Invasions & Reconstruction

  • Mahmud Begada destroyed the temple in 1472 AD.

  • It was rebuilt in the 16th century by the Gaekwad rulers of Baroda.

  • Today, it stands as one of the most revered Krishna temples.

4. Temple Timings, Darshan & Aarti Schedule

4.1 Dwarkadhish Temple Timings

  • Morning: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM

  • Evening: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM

4.2 Aarti Schedule

  • Mangla Aarti: 6:30 AM

  • Shringar Aarti: 10:30 AM

  • Rajbhog Aarti: 11:30 AM

  • Utthapan Aarti: 5:30 PM

  • Sandhya Aarti: 7:30 PM

  • Shayan Aarti: 8:30 PM

Devotees can participate in special pujas, darshans, and spiritual discourses.

5. Festivals Celebrated at Dwarkadhish Temple

Several grand festivals attract lakhs of devotees to the temple.

  • Janmashtami – The grandest celebration of Krishna’s birth.

  • Rath Yatra – The annual chariot procession of Lord Krishna.

  • Holi & Diwali – Celebrated with devotional fervor.

  • Tulsi Vivah – The ceremonial wedding of Lord Krishna and Tulsi.

6. How to Reach Dwarkadhish Temple

  • By Air: Nearest airport – Jamnagar Airport (137 km away).

  • By Train: Dwarka Railway Station is well-connected.

  • By Road: Frequent buses and taxis available from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Jamnagar.

7. Nearby Attractions

  • Bet Dwarka – Krishna’s residence, accessible by ferry.

  • Rukmini Devi Temple – Dedicated to Krishna’s queen.

  • Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

  • Gomti Ghat – Sacred bathing ghat near the temple.

Conclusion

The Dwarkadhish Temple is a divine site, symbolizing the rich heritage of Lord Krishna’s rule. Being one of the 108 Divya Desams, it holds supreme religious significance. The temple’s history, architecture, and daily rituals make it a must-visit for every devotee seeking spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings.

Visiting Dwarka and seeking Lord Krishna’s blessings at Dwarkadhish Temple is an experience every devotee should cherish. The sacred city continues to inspire faith, devotion, and the eternal legacy of Lord Krishna.