Located in the coastal town of Udupi in Karnataka, Udupi Sri Krishna Temple is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, is one of the most revered temples in South India and attracts millions of devotees every year. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the history, significance, and architecture of the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple.
History of Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
The history of the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple dates back to the 13th century when it was established by the great saint and philosopher, Sri Madhvacharya. The temple is famous for its unique tradition of worship, known as ‘Udupi Paryaya’. According to this tradition, the management of the temple is handed over to a different Matha (monastery) every two years. This practice has been followed for more than 800 years, making Udupi Sri Krishna Temple one of the oldest functioning temples in India.
Significance of Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Krishna. The temple is famous for its unique architecture, which combines both Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles. The main deity of the temple is Lord Krishna, who is worshipped as ‘Bala Krishna’ (child Krishna) with a silver chariot.
One of the most significant aspects of the temple is the ‘Kanakana Kindi’, a small window through which Lord Krishna is believed to have given his darshan (blessings) to his devotee, Kanakadasa, who was denied entry into the temple due to his lower caste. This incident is said to have happened in the 16th century and is a testament to the inclusive nature of the temple.
The architecture of Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
- The architecture of Udupi Sri Krishna Temple is a unique blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles. The temple has a stunning wooden chariot, which is used to carry the deity of Lord Krishna during special occasions. The chariot is decorated with intricate carvings and is considered to be one of the most beautiful in South India.
The main entrance of the temple is adorned with a beautifully carved Rajagopura (tower). The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is small and houses the idol of Lord Krishna. The temple also has a beautiful tank called the Madhwa Sarovara, which is considered to be a holy water body.
Festivals and Celebrations at Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple celebrates many festivals throughout the year, with the most important being Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna. During this festival, the temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and a special puja is performed.
Other important festivals celebrated at the temple include Navaratri, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti. During these festivals, the temple is crowded with devotees from all over the country, who come to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna.
