Govind Dev Ji Temple, Jaipur

Govind Dev Ji Temple, Jaipur

Govind Dev Ji Temple is a major Hindu temple located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, dedicated to Lord Krishna (Govind Dev Ji) and Radha Rani. The temple is located within the Jai Niwas Bagh in the City Palace complex of Jaipur. The temple is also famous for its special architectural style without a shikhara.

History

The idol of Govind Dev Ji was first installed in Vrindavan, which was re-installed in Jaipur by Sawai Jai Singh II. According to religious belief, Vajranabh, the great grandson of Lord Krishna, built three idols based on the form of Lord Krishna:

Govind Dev Ji – similar to the face of Lord Krishna.

Gopinath Ji – similar to the chest.

Madan Mohan Ji – similar to the feet.

These idols were hidden during the invasions in the 11th century, which were rediscovered by the followers of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 16th century. Later, these idols were brought to Jaipur during the invasion of Aurangzeb.

Architecture and art

Govind Dev Ji Temple is an excellent example of Rajasthani architectural style. It is constructed of red sandstone and marble. The interior of the temple is adorned with lavish paintings, beautiful chandeliers and fine carvings. The temple has a wide ceiling without pillars, which is an example of excellent architectural technique of that time.

Notably, the Satsang Hall (Assembly Hall) of the temple complex also holds the Guinness World Record of being the "World's Widest Concrete Structure".

The main entrance of the temple faces east, which illuminates the entrance with natural light at sunrise, which is considered a symbol of auspiciousness.

Darshan and Aarti Timings

There are seven tableaux every day in the temple, in which different forms of the Lord are seen. According to the time of the tableau, the Lord is dressed in different clothes and ornaments.

Timings of Tableau
Mangala morning 5:00 – 5:15 am
Dhoop morning 7:45 – 9:00 am
Shringar morning 9:30 – 10:15 am
Rajbhog morning 10:45 – 11:45 am
Gwal Sandhya evening 5:00 – 5:15 pm
Sandhya evening 5:45 – 6:45 pm
Shayan night 8:00 – 8:15 pm

Major festivals

The following festivals are celebrated with great pomp in the temple:

Janmashtami — the birthday of Lord Krishna.

Nandotsav — celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna.

Govardhan Puja — Annakoot Festival.

Radhashtami — the birthday of Radha Rani.

Sharad Purnima and Phalguna Purnima (Holi Festival).

Management

The management of Govind Dev Ji Temple is under the Rajasthan Devasthan Department. Religious activities are conducted by the Mahant family of the temple.

Currently, the head Mahant of the temple is Pandit Anjan Kumar Goswami. He is a descendant of the Goswami family, who have been serving the Govind Dev Ji Temple for generations. Mahant Anjan Kumar Goswami plays an active role in religious, cultural and social programs and is making many efforts to modernize the temple and expand the facilities for the devotees.

Importance of Govind Dev Ji in Jaipur

Govind Dev Ji is considered the patron deity (kuldevata) of Jaipur. Jaipur ruler Sawai Jai Singh II had consecrated Govind Dev Ji as the king of the city. Even today, special prayers are held at the Govind Dev Ji temple on behalf of the Jaipur Darbar.

Gallery

Map ( Click on the photo, the map will open )