Yuvraj Singh Rathore
The Govind Dev Ji Temple, situated within Jaipur’s City Palace complex, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. It holds immense spiritual and historical significance, attracting devotees and tourists alike.
Historical Significance
The temple’s origins trace back to the early 18th century when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, brought the idol of Govind Dev Ji from Vrindavan to Jaipur. This idol is believed to have been sculpted by Bajranabh, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna, based on descriptions from Krishna’s contemporaries.
During the Mughal era, particularly under Emperor Aurangzeb’s reign, many Hindu temples faced destruction. To safeguard the sacred idol, it was moved from Vrindavan to Amer and eventually to Jaipur. Initially housed in Suraj Mahal, the idol was later enshrined in its current location within the City Palace complex.
Architectural Highlights
The temple showcases a harmonious blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. Its expansive complex is adorned with lush gardens, intricate frescoes, and paintings depicting scenes from Lord Krishna’s life. Notably, the temple’s Satsang Hall holds a Guinness World Record for being the world’s widest concrete building, featuring a pillarless hall that can accommodate up to 5,000 devotees.
Darshan and Aarti Timings
The temple operates on a schedule that varies between summer and winter months.
Summer Timings (April to July):
Morning: 4:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 5:45 PM – 9:30 PM
Winter Timings (November to February):
Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:45 PM
Daily Aarti Schedule:
Mangla Aarti: 5:00 AM – 5:15 AM
Dhoop Aarti: 7:45 AM – 9:00 AM
Shringar Aarti: 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM
Rajbhog Aarti: 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM
Gwal Aarti: 5:00 PM – 5:15 PM
Sandhya Aarti: 5:45 PM – 6:45 PM
Shayan Aarti: 8:00 PM – 8:15 PM
Timings may vary during festivals and special occasions.
Location and Accessibility
The temple is located at Jalebi Chowk within the City Palace complex in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Its central location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Festivals Which Are Celebrated With Pomp and Zeal
Govind Dev Ji Temple is a focal point for major Hindu festivals, including:
Janmashtami: Celebrating Lord Krishna’s birth.
Radhashtami: Honoring the birth of Radha.
Holi: The festival of colors.
Gopashtami, Sharad Purnima, and Kartik Purnima: Other significant festivals celebrated with fervor.