Banke Bihari has a heavenly charm that brings up memories of Lord Krishna in his most whimsical and captivating form in the vast Hindu mythology. If you are curious to discover the deeper significance of Banke Bihari and learn the fascinating story behind why Krishna is called Banke Bihari and Banke Bihari meaning, keep reading this blog till the end.
Why Is Krishna Called Banke Bihari
Of the thousands of titles Lord Krishna has, Banke Bihari is one of the most well-known and endearing. But do you wonder why Krishna is called Banke Bihari?
Well, the literal meaning of the term Bankey Bihari translates to Bankey means "bent in three places", whereas Bihari refers to "supreme enjoyer". Krishna has gotten his name because he usually has three bent limbs in his most common standing flute-playing position.
A very ancient mention of Krishna's bending position may be found in Śrī Brahmasaḿhitā (verse 5.31), where Lord Brahma praises Krishna and mentions:
“I worship Govinda, the primaeval Lord, round whose neck is swinging a garland of flowers beautified with the moon-locket, whose two hands are adorned with the flute and jewelled ornaments, who always revels in pastimes of love, whose graceful threefold-bending form of Śyāmasundara is eternally manifest.”
In ancient Indian Shipshastra literature and classical dances, the threefold Tri Bhanga poses are well-known. When we look at Krishna's most well-known standing position, we notice that his legs, waist, and head are all bowed. Krishna became known as Banke Bihari, the Lord supporting the Tribhanga stance.
These three elegant bends are shown in most standing sculptures of Lord Krishna and are also commonly seen in the traditional Krishna dances. Thus, the name Banke Bihari meaning refer to the most elegant resident or inner reveller (Krishna), assuming the Tribhanga (Banga or Banke).
The Beauty Of Shri Banke Bihari Mandir
One of the most well-known temples in India is the Bankey Bihari Temple. It is situated in the holy city of Vrindavan, a place 15 km away from Mathura. Millions of pilgrims from all over the world visit the temple each year to obtain Lord Krishna's blessings. The Bankey Bihari Temple is renowned for its exquisite gold-plated shrine and unusual construction. Several musical instruments are also housed at the temple and played daily during the aarti ceremony.
It is definitely worthwhile to view the black stone image of Shri Banke Bihariji, which is housed in the Shri Bankey Bihari Mandir in Vrindavan and was given as a holy gift by the celestial couple Shyama-Shyam. It will undoubtedly make you feel happy and give you a newfound enthusiasm for life!
The Man Behind The Banke Bihari Temple
It is believed that Guru of the well-known vocalist Tansen, Swami Haridas, founded the Bankey Bihari Temple. Once, in Vrindavan, Swami Haridasji sang this verse on Nidhivan at the request of his disciples:
"Mai ri sahaj jori pragat bhai ju rang ki gaur syam ghan damini jaisen. Pratham hun ahuti ab hun aagen hun rahihai na tarihai taisain.. Ang ang ki ujraii sugharaii chaturaii sunderta aisain. Shri Haridas ke swami syama kunjbihari sam vais vaisain…"
The celestial pair Shyama-Shyam, also known as Radha-Krishna, reportedly materialised before Swami Haridas and his followers as he chanted the verse. The idol of Banke Bihari then materialised as they united into one. Before being relocated to its current location within the temple, the idol was established at the same spot in Nidhivan.
How To Reach to Banke Bihari temple
It is very easy to reach Banke Bihari temple by air, train, or road.
By Air
The nearest airports to Mathura are Agra and Delhi. It is 46 km from Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport of Agra and 136 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.
By Train
Mathura has excellent train connectivity from various parts of the country. Two main railway stations of the city are Mathura Junction (MTJ) and Mathura Cantt. (MRT)
By Road
There are a lot of buses running on this route from Delhi at frequent intervals, or you can also choose to self-drive.
Conclusion
The holy city of Vrindavan is full of love and blessings for everyone, regardless of whether you want to visit Vrindavan for spiritual awakening or blessings for fresh beginnings. In order to fulfil this goal, Krishnabhog is here to help you select from a variety of Krishna-inspired accessories, artefacts, and Prasad from Banke Bihari Temple Vrindavan to anoint the significant events in your life with Krishna's grace.
FAQs About Banke Bihari Ji Temple
What is the best time to visit Banke Bihari Temple?
The best time to visit Banke Bihari temple is from October to December and February to April.
Is Banke Bihari Temple always crowded?
It depends on the month and season you are visiting the temple. The temple is generally crowded during festivities like Janmashtami and Holi.
What are the timings to visit Banke Bihari Temple?
Shringar Aarti occurs at 7:55 am, and the temple is accessible to devotees from 5:30 PM until 9:30 PM, with the evening Darshan occurring late in the evening.