Introduction
Mathura and Vrindavan are two of the most revered spiritual destinations in India, closely associated with Lord Krishna’s birth and divine pastimes. These twin cities, located in Uttar Pradesh, hold immense significance in Hinduism, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. The history of Mathura and Vrindavan is a fascinating blend of mythology, devotion, and historical evolution, spanning thousands of years.
In this article, we will explore the ancient origins, cultural evolution, Mughal influences, and modern developments that have shaped Mathura and Vrindavan into the sacred destinations they are today.
Ancient History – The Birthplace of Lord Krishna
1. Mathura in Vedic Literature
Mathura finds mention in ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Rigveda, Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and Vishnu Purana. It is identified as one of the seven Moksha-puris (cities that grant liberation).
According to legend, Mathura was originally known as Madhupuri, named after a demon king Madhu, who was later slain by Lord Vishnu’s incarnation, Shatrughna. This made Mathura an important site for Vaishnavites long before the birth of Lord Krishna.
2. The Birth of Lord Krishna
The most significant event in Mathura’s history is the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. As per Hindu belief:
- King Kansa, the tyrant ruler of Mathura, was foretold that his sister Devaki’s eighth son would be his downfall.
- To prevent this, Kansa imprisoned Devaki and her husband Vasudeva.
- When Krishna was born in Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, divine intervention allowed Vasudeva to carry the infant across the Yamuna River to Gokul, where he was raised by Nanda and Yashoda.
- Krishna eventually defeated Kansa, liberating Mathura from his evil rule.
This makes Mathura the holiest city for Krishna devotees, with Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple marking his birthplace.
Vrindavan – The Land of Krishna’s Childhood Leelas
1. The Significance of Vrindavan
Vrindavan, located about 15 km from Mathura, is where Krishna spent his childhood, playing, dancing, and enchanting the world with his divine love for Radha and the Gopis. The town is dotted with thousands of temples, each narrating a story of Krishna’s pastimes.
2. Famous Leelas of Krishna in Vrindavan
✔ Makhan Chori (Stealing Butter): As a mischievous child, Krishna was known for stealing butter from the homes of Gopis, earning him the name “Makhan Chor” (Butter Thief).
✔ Kaliya Mardan (Subduing the Serpent): Krishna danced on the hoods of the venomous serpent Kaliya to purify the Yamuna River.
✔ Raas Leela: Vrindavan is famous for Krishna’s divine dance with Radha and the Gopis under the full moon. This symbolizes the spiritual love between the devotee and the divine.
3. The Rediscovery of Vrindavan
Vrindavan had become forgotten over time, but in the 16th century, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a great saint and devotee of Krishna, rediscovered its lost sites. His disciples, the Six Goswamis of Vrindavan, established many of the oldest and most revered temples, including:
- Shri Radha Madan Mohan Temple (Oldest Temple in Vrindavan)
- Shri Radha Raman Temple
- Shri Govind Dev Ji Temple
Mathura and Vrindavan During Different Dynasties
1. Maurya and Kushan Period (4th Century BCE – 3rd Century CE)
✔ Mathura flourished as an important Buddhist and Jain center during the rule of Emperor Ashoka.
✔ The Kushan rulers, especially Kanishka, promoted Buddhism and art, making Mathura a center for Mathura School of Art, which influenced Indian sculpture.
✔ Several ancient Buddhist stupas and sculptures from this period have been excavated.
2. Gupta Empire (4th – 6th Century CE)
✔ During the Gupta era, Mathura regained prominence as a Hindu religious hub, with temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva, and Krishna.
✔ Many inscriptions from this period indicate a flourishing Vaishnavite culture.
3. Islamic Invasions and Mughal Rule (11th – 18th Century)
✔ Mathura and Vrindavan faced destruction during Islamic invasions, particularly by Mahmud of Ghazni (11th century) and later by Aurangzeb (17th century).
✔ Several temples, including the original Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple and Govind Dev Ji Temple, were demolished and replaced by mosques.
✔ Despite this, Hindu kings from Rajasthan helped rebuild many temples, ensuring that the spiritual identity of the land was preserved.
British Period and Modern Developments
✔ During British rule, Mathura and Vrindavan continued to be centers of pilgrimage.
✔ The British government allowed Hindus to rebuild temples, leading to the establishment of newer structures like Prem Mandir and ISKCON Temple.
✔ Today, the region is witnessing significant infrastructure growth, making pilgrimage easier.
Recent Developments
✔ Banke Bihari Corridor Project: A new corridor is being developed around Banke Bihari Temple to accommodate larger crowds.
✔ Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir: A 700-feet tall Krishna temple is under construction, set to become the world’s tallest temple.
✔ Eco-Friendly Transport: Battery-operated rickshaws and electric buses are being introduced for a pollution-free pilgrimage.
Mathura Vrindavan – The Eternal Spiritual Hub
Mathura and Vrindavan are not just historical towns but living representations of divine love and devotion. Whether you visit to explore its ancient temples, participate in vibrant festivals like Holi and Janmashtami, or simply soak in the spiritual aura, this land will leave an everlasting impact on your soul.
🛕 Plan your journey to Mathura and Vrindavan temples and experience the divine charm of Lord Krishna’s land!