Source: En.wikipedia.orgMathura, the mystical city located in Uttar Pradesh, India, is steeped in history, culture, and spirituality. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Mathura boasts a rich heritage dating back thousands of years. Renowned as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura holds immense significance for Hindu devotees and attracts millions of pilgrims from across the globe.
Beyond its spiritual roots, Mathura is also a treasure trove of architectural marvels, vibrant festivals, and picturesque landscapes. From ancient temples and ghats along the sacred Yamuna River to its bustling markets and delectable street food, Mathura offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
In this article, we will delve into 50 fascinating facts about Mathura, shedding light on its history, legends, mythology, and cultural heritage. Prepare to be enthralled as we explore the captivating world of Mathura and unravel its secrets.
Key Takeaways:
- Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is an ancient city steeped in mythology and rich history, making it a major pilgrimage site and home to numerous temples, vibrant festivals, and sacred landmarks.
- Visitors to Mathura can experience the city’s cultural and religious significance through its unique traditions, delectable sweets, and diverse attractions, including temples, museums, and natural sanctuaries.
The birthplace of Lord Krishna
Mathura, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is widely recognized as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered Hindu deities.
A city steeped in mythology
Mathura holds great mythological significance as it is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood and enacted various divine pastimes.
An ancient city
With a rich history dating back over 3,000 years, Mathura is one of the oldest cities in India, making it a treasure trove of archaeological sites and ancient ruins.
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A major pilgrimage site
Mathura is considered one of the holiest cities in India and attracts millions of devotees and pilgrims every year, especially during festivals like Janmashtami.
Home to numerous temples
Mathura is dotted with temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and other deities. The Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, and Banke Bihari Temple are among the most famous.
Celebrating Holi in Mathura
Mathura is renowned for its vibrant and exuberant celebrations of Holi, the festival of colors. Tourists from around the world flock here to witness the grand festivities.
The Braj region
Mathura is the heart of the Braj region, an area associated with the divine love and pastimes of Lord Krishna. The region encompasses several towns and villages of historical and religious significance.
The Yamuna River
Situated on the banks of the holy Yamuna River, Mathura holds immense religious significance as it is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna performed various miraculous activities.
Mathura during the Mahabharata
According to Hindu mythology, Mathura played a prominent role during the time of the Mahabharata. It was an important stronghold and witness to many significant events.
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A center of art and culture
Mathura has a rich artistic heritage, particularly in the fields of sculpture and painting. The Mathura School of Art, dating back to the Gupta period, is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship.
Connection to Buddhism
Mathura has historical significance in the Buddhist tradition as well. It is believed to be the birthplace of Kanishka, a prominent Buddhist ruler from the 2nd century.
The Mathura Museum
The Mathura Museum showcases a vast collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and archaeological remains, providing valuable insights into the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Goverdhan Hill
Located near Mathura, Goverdhan Hill is believed to have been lifted by Lord Krishna to protect the residents of Mathura from floods. It holds immense religious significance for devotees.
Mathura ke Pede
Mathura is famous for its delectable sweet delicacy called “Mathura ke Pede.” These mouthwatering sweets are made from condensed milk, sugar, and garnished with dry fruits.
The sacred dust of Mathura
It is believed that the dust of Mathura holds profound spiritual significance. Devotees often collect and cherish the sacred dust as a symbol of their devotion.
The Mathura Chaturvedi community
The Chaturvedi community in Mathura is known for their proficiency in the four Vedas. They are highly respected for their knowledge and dedication to Vedic traditions.
The Lathmar Holi tradition
Mathura is famous for the unique Lathmar Holi tradition, where women playfully beat men with sticks during the Holi festival, emulating the divine pastimes of Lord Krishna and Radha.
The Dwarkadhish Temple
The Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura is an architectural marvel and a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and showcases exquisite craftsmanship.
The ISKCON Temple
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has a significant presence in Mathura, with a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and spiritual activities for devotees.
The Holi Gate
The Holi Gate in Mathura is a prominent landmark that marks the entrance to the traditional old city. It is a popular spot during the Holi festival, where grand celebrations take place.
The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex
The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple Complex encompasses the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is a site of immense reverence and attracts devotees and pilgrims from around the world.
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The Radha Kund and Shyam Kund
The Radha Kund and Shyam Kund, located in Mathura, are two sacred ponds associated with Lord Krishna and Radha. Devotees consider bathing in these holy waters highly auspicious.
The Guru Purnima festival
Mathura celebrates the festival of Guru Purnima with great devotion and reverence. It is a day to honor and express gratitude to spiritual teachers and gurus.
Mathuradas Mathur Hospital
Mathuradas Mathur Hospital in Mathura is a renowned medical institution providing healthcare services to the local community. It is named after a prominent freedom fighter.
The Government Museum
The Government Museum in Mathura houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, coins, and archaeological treasures, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Mathura during the Mughal era
Mathura flourished during the Mughal era and was a prominent center of art, culture, and trade. The Mughal influence can be seen in the architectural marvels scattered across the city.
The Phool Bangla Temple
The Phool Bangla Temple is a unique temple in Mathura adorned with beautiful flower decorations. It is an architectural gem and a must-visit for tourists and devotees.
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The Vishram Ghat
The Vishram Ghat, situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, is a sacred bathing spot for pilgrims. It is believed that Lord Krishna rested here after defeating the demon Kansa.
The Mathura Pashmina shawls
Mathura is famous for its exquisite Pashmina shawls, known for their fine craftsmanship and intricate designs. They make for a perfect souvenir to take back home.
The Mathura Refinery
Mathura houses one of the oldest oil refineries in India, the Mathura Refinery. It is a significant contributor to the country’s petroleum industry.
The Gita Mandir
The Gita Mandir in Mathura is a temple dedicated to the sacred Bhagavad Gita. It serves as a center for the study and dissemination of this profound spiritual scripture.
The Rangeshwar Mahadev Temple
The Rangeshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered Shiva temple in Mathura, where devotees offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The Mathura Junction
The Mathura Junction railway station is a major transportation hub, connecting Mathura to various cities and serving as a gateway for tourists visiting the city.
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The Mathura Museum Art Gallery
The Mathura Museum Art Gallery is a treasure trove of stunning paintings and sculptures, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region.
The Mathura-Vrindavan Parikrama
Devotees undertake the Mathura-Vrindavan Parikrama, a circumambulation of the holy sites associated with Lord Krishna, to seek spiritual blessings and immerse themselves in devotion.
The Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir in Mathura is a majestic temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. Its splendid architecture and serene atmosphere make it a popular attraction.
The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Located near Mathura, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird lovers. It is home to numerous migratory bird species and offers a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
The Kans Qila
The Kans Qila, also known as the Kans Fort, is a historic fort in Mathura associated with the legendary demon king Kansa. It stands as a reminder of Mathura’s mythological past.
The Mathura Charkula Dance
The Mathura Charkula Dance is a traditional dance form performed by women, balancing a large decorative wheel on their heads. It is a captivating sight and a visual representation of devotion.
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The Mathura Elephant Park
The Mathura Elephant Park is a sanctuary for elephants, offering visitors a chance to interact with these majestic creatures and learn about their conservation.
The Mathura-Vrindavan Boat Ride
Exploring Mathura and Vrindavan through a boat ride along the Yamuna River is a serene and picturesque experience, immersing visitors in the spiritual ambiance of the region.
The Chhappan Bhog offerings
Devotees offer Chhappan Bhog, a special platter consisting of 56 different food items, to Lord Krishna in Mathura, as a token of their love and devotion.
The Mathura Oil Conservation Depot
Mathura is home to an Oil Conservation Depot, which plays a crucial role in the storage and distribution of petroleum products in the region.
The Mathura Mint
The Mathura Mint, established during the Mughal era, was renowned for its production of high-quality coins. It signifies the city’s historical significance as a center of trade and commerce.
The Brijwasi Sweets
Brijwasi Sweets, a famous sweet shop in Mathura, is known for its delectable traditional sweets, including the mouthwatering Mathura ke Pede and delicious milk-based desserts.
The Kusum Sarovar
The Kusum Sarovar is a picturesque lake near Mathura, associated with Lord Krishna and his cowherd friends. It offers a tranquil setting for reflection and meditation.
The Radha Raman Temple
The Radha Raman Temple is a revered Krishna temple in Mathura, known for its unique deity of Lord Krishna that appeared miraculously on a saligram shila.
The Mathura Jain Temples
Mathura is home to several Jain temples that hold religious significance for followers of Jainism. These temples attract devotees and visitors seeking spiritual solace.
The Mathura Carnival
The Mathura Carnival is an annual cultural extravaganza that showcases the vibrant arts, crafts, music, and dance forms of the region, attracting artists and enthusiasts from all over.
The Mathura Museum Artifacts
The Mathura Museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, including ancient coins, pottery, statues, and paintings, shedding light on Mathura’s cultural and historical legacy.
Conclusion
Mathura, known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. With its rich cultural heritage and numerous temples, Mathura attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. This article has covered 50 fascinating facts about Mathura, ranging from its ancient origins to its colorful festivals and vibrant traditions.From being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world to its association with the epic Mahabharata, Mathura holds a special place in Indian mythology and history. It is believed that Lord Krishna spent his childhood here, and his presence can still be felt in the various temples dedicated to him.Mathura is not only a religious destination but also offers a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of past eras. The intricate carvings and mesmerizing artwork found in the temples and ancient structures are a testament to the city’s glorious past.Visitors can also immerse themselves in the vibrant celebrations and festivals that take place throughout the year. Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most popular events in Mathura, attracting thousands of revelers who come to experience the joyous atmosphere and participate in the traditional festivities.With its blend of spirituality, history, and cultural richness, Mathura truly has something to offer to everyone. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, historical knowledge, or simply a unique and immersive experience, Mathura is a destination that will leave you in awe.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Mathura?
The best time to visit Mathura is during the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city’s attractions.
2. Are there any accommodations available in Mathura?
Yes, Mathura offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas, catering to different budgets and preferences.
3. How can I reach Mathura?
Mathura is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Agra, which is around 60 kilometers away from Mathura.
4. What are some must-visit temples in Mathura?
Some of the must-visit temples in Mathura include the Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, and Banke Bihari Temple.
5. Is photography allowed inside the temples?
Photography may be restricted or prohibited inside some temples. It is advisable to check with the authorities or temple management beforehand.
6. Are there any local delicacies to try in Mathura?
Mathura is famous for its sweets, especially the iconic “Peda.” Other local delicacies include Mathura ke Dubki Wale Aloo and Kachori.
7. Can I explore Vrindavan along with Mathura?
Yes, Vrindavan, which is just a few kilometers away from Mathura, is a popular destination known for its association with Lord Krishna. It is highly recommended to explore both cities together.
8. Is Mathura safe for solo travelers?
Mathura is generally safe for solo travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially during crowded festivals and events.
9. Are there any shopping options in Mathura?
Mathura offers a bustling local market where you can buy religious artifacts, handicrafts, and traditional clothing.
10. What other attractions are there in and around Mathura?
Some other attractions in and around Mathura include the Yamuna River, Kusum Sarovar, Govardhan Hill, and the renowned ISKCON Temple.
Mathura's rich history, religious significance, and cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination. Celebrate the vibrant Holi Festival with colorful traditions and festivities. Explore the sacred Yamuna River, which flows through this ancient city. Discover the intriguing connection between Mathura and Radha, the beloved consort of Lord Krishna. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about Indian culture, Mathura offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be uncovered.
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