Radha Vallabh Temple, Vrindavan

The Radha Vallabh Temple, also known as the Shri Radha Vallabhlal ji Temple, is a historic Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, within the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, India. This significant temple serves as a central hub for the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya and is dedicated to the worship of the divine pair, Radha and Krishna.

History and Construction

The temple's construction dates back to the 16th century, initiated under the spiritual guidance of the Vrindavan saint Hith Harivansha Mahaprabhu. The current structure, known as the Old Radhavallabh Temple or Hith Mandir, was completed in 1585 A.D. by Sundardas Bhatnagar, a disciple of Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu's son, Vanachandra. Sundardas Bhatnagar, who was employed by Abdul Rahim Khankhana at Akbar's court, received royal permission to use red sandstone for the temple's construction. This material was typically reserved for imperial buildings, royal palaces, and forts, underscoring the importance and patronage the temple received. It is noted that while King Maan Singh initially considered building the temple, he withdrew due to a legend of premature death for the builder, a prophecy that later befell Sundardas Bhatnagar.

Legend and Deity

According to popular legend, the central deity, Radhavallabh, was not sculpted by human hands but was divinely bestowed upon a devotee named Atmadev by Lord Shiva himself due to his intense devotion. Hith Harivansha Mahaprabhu, after residing in Devavan, was divinely instructed by Goddess Radha to marry the daughters of Atmadev and bring the idol of Radha Vallabhji to Vrindavan. Consequently, Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu married Atmadev's daughters, and Atmadev gifted the idol of Radhavallabh ji to them on their wedding.

Architecture and Significance

The Radha Vallabh Temple is distinguished by its striking architecture and magnificent decor. Constructed in 1585, it stands as one of the oldest and enduring temples in Vrindavan, built with robust red sandstone walls that are 10 feet thick. Its location near the Bankey Bihari temple adds to its prominence. The temple is a focal point for the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya and a significant pilgrimage destination for devotees.

Festivals

The temple is renowned for its vibrant and colorful festivals. Major celebrations include Hitotsav, an 11-day festival honoring the founder Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu; Radhashtami, a 9-day festival celebrating Goddess Radha's birth anniversary; and Krishna Janmashtami, marking Krishna's birth. Other annual festivals observed are Holi, Diwali, Sharad Purnima, Dussehra, Jhulan Utsav, Phool Banglas, Sanjhi Utsav, and Patotsava.