Importance of Dwaraka - Dev Bhoomi

Dwaraka, also known as Dev Bhoomi, is a sacred city in Gujarat, Western India, revered as one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the Seven Mukthi Sthalas, and a key destination in the Char Dham Yatra.

Divine Origins

• The city of Dwaraka was established by Lord Krishna, who relocated the people of Mathura to this divine land.
• The city was built by Vishwakarma, the celestial architect.
• The current temple was constructed by Vajranabha, the grandson of Lord Krishna, over 2,500 years ago.

Deity and Iconography

• The presiding deity is Lord Krishna, worshipped as Dwarkadhish (King of Dwaraka).
• He stands in a majestic posture with four arms, holding:
• Shanka (Conch)
• Chakra (Discus)
• Gadha (Mace)
• Padma (Lotus)
• A unique feature is that Mother Devaki faces Lord Krishna in the sanctum.
• A separate shrine is dedicated to Goddess Rukmini Devi, his consort.

Temple Rituals and Decoration

• The temple follows a rich daily schedule from Mangala Arati at dawn to Shayan Arati (Ekanta Seva) at night.
• The deity is adorned with Divya Alankara (sacred dressing), reflecting the second act of divine worship in Vaishnava tradition.
• Deep Daan (lamp offering) in the sacred Gomati River is considered highly auspicious.

Spiritual Legacy

• Dwaraka is a gateway to heaven, a place of liberation and divine grace.
• Great Acharyas like Adi Shankaracharya and Ramanujacharya have visited this shrine.
• Adi Shankaracharya established a Mutt in Badrinath to propagate Hindu philosophy in the western region.