MYSTERIES AND TRADITIONS OF BANKE BIHARI TEMPLE, VRINDAVAN
The Banke Bihari Temple is surrounded by many mysteries and unique traditions, which add to its charm. Among these traditions are the absence of bells, the drawing of curtains every few minutes. Also, the constant bhajan-kirtan that happens inside the temple, and much more.
THE PURDAH IN FRONT OF THE IDOL
One of the earliest legends surrounding this temple says that a Rajasthani princess from one of the ancient kingdoms that ruled over the land visited Vrindavan. Moreover, offering obeisance and prayers to Lord Krishna. As soon as, she set eyes on the all-black mesmerizing idol of Krishna, the princess was lost in rapture and divine love; she wished to stay with Krishna forever in Vrindavan. But, the princess had her duties and tearfully she dragged herself away from Krishna and Vrindavan.
One day the priest at the Banke Bihari found Krishna’s idol missing. However, a frantic search was launched till word arrived. And, it was known that the Lord was safe in the princess’ palace, being worshipped and tended to by him. However, the sheer magnetism and pull of her devotion melted Krishna’s heart. And he went to the princess leaving behind his seat of worship. Since then, it is believed a purdah (curtain) is drawn in front of the idol between the worshippers and the image. This is to break the intensity of feeling that Krishna’s image stirs in his devotees. So that, no one gazes long enough on Krishna’s face. Just to be lost forever in his divine love and forget their worldly surroundings.
NO BELLS IN BANKE BIHARI TEMPLE
The absence of any bells or loud songs is completely different from any other temple in India. The majority Indian temples have loud bells, devotional songs on speakers, priests holding mics to sing the katha, and many such things. But in Banke Bihari no such things exist.
It is believed that the young Krishna should not be startled or disturbed. Both devotees and priests hold a deep respect for Krishna’s child form and believe that the ringing of bells might wake or disturb the young lord. This tradition is one that shows the loving feelings that devotees have for the deity, treating Krishna not just as a God but as a child who needs care and calm.
THE UNIQUE IDOL: BANKE BIHARI TEMPLE
The icon of Banke Bihari is the combined form of the divine couple Radha Krishna. The icon was manifested by Vrindavan musician and saint Swami Haridas. He was believed to be the incarnation of Lalita gopi. She was a close associate of Radha Krishna in their celestial abode Goloka. Swami Haridas was the guru of the famous singer Tansen, sang a verse in praise of Radha Krishna at Nidhivan.
On listening the verse, the celestial Radha Krishna appeared in front of him. And at the request of Swami Haridas, the divine couple merged into one and the stone image of Banke Bihari appeared in front of him. The icon was named Kunj Bihari or Banke Bihari by Swami Haridas and later the same icon was shifted from Nidhivan to Banke Bihari temple, Vrindavan.
MIRACLE SURROUNDING VRINDAVAN
A popular miracle story involves a shop owner who heard the voice of a young child asking for food. The hypnotic voice of the young child falling on his ears softened him and he gave a handful of laddoos to the young boy, sending him on his way. The boy thanked him profusely for his generosity and gave him a gold bangle in return.
The next morning when he arrived at the shop, there was commotion all around. Someone said that one of the bangles worn by Banke Bihari had gone missing and was nowhere to be found. When the shop owner heard this, he went to the temple immediately and showed the officials there the bangle he had received earlier. To everyone’s astonishment, it was the same bangle that had gone missing from the idol. Shop owner immediately understood the significance of his kind act and the appearance of the Lord in front of his eyes.
