In a recent interview with EBNW Story, Siddha Swaroop Das Prabhu shared fascinating insights into the history and significance of Charan Mandir, an ancient temple in Jaipur. The temple, steeped in mythology and history, highlights Jaipur’s spiritual bond with Lord Krishna and reflects the profound devotion of its historical rulers, especially Raja Man Singh I.
According to legend, Raja Man Singh, the celebrated Kachhwaha Rajput ruler of Amber, received a divine command from Lord Krishna in a dream to construct a temple at a sacred site. The king, accompanied by his attendants, ventured to Ambika Van the following morning to locate the site described in his vision.
At the designated spot, he discovered footprints believed to belong to Lord Krishna. The temple priests identified these sacred imprints as originating from the Dwapar Yuga, linking them to an episode described in the Srimad Bhagavatam (Tenth Canto, Chapter Four). This connection further solidified the sanctity of the location, inspiring the construction of the magnificent Charan Mandir.
The Mythological Significance of Ambika Van
Ambika Van is said to have been a pivotal location during the Pandavas’ exile. It is also associated with an iconic tale from Krishna’s life. The temple inscriptions recount that Lord Krishna, along with Nand Baba and his friends, once visited this forest.
During their visit, a giant serpent captured Nand Baba. Responding to his father’s plea for help, Krishna touched the serpent with his right foot, freeing it from its cursed form. The serpent transformed into a radiant and handsome figure, introducing himself as Sudarsana, the son of Lord Indra.
Sudarsana revealed that he had been cursed to live as a serpent due to mocking the appearance of Angira Gotra sages. With Krishna’s divine touch, he was liberated from his curse, adding another layer of spiritual significance to the site.
Raja Man Singh’s Devotion and Contributions
Raja Man Singh, a staunch devotee of Lord Krishna, commissioned the construction of the temple at this sacred site. His devotion extended beyond Charan Mandir; he is also credited with building the iconic Govind Dev Ji Temple in Vrindavan.
A patron of architecture and culture, Raja Man Singh played a significant role in preserving Hindu heritage. His projects included the construction of ghats along the Ganges in Banaras, Patna, and Haridwar.
When the Jagannath Puri Temple faced threats from invading forces, Raja Man Singh sent his army to protect it. Despite the loss of many warriors, he personally led a campaign to secure the temple, defeating the attackers and ensuring its sanctity. He also undertook the reconstruction of temples destroyed during earlier invasions, leaving a lasting legacy as a protector of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Charan Mandir Today
Charan Mandir continues to attract countless devotees who come to pay homage to Lord Krishna’s footprints. The temple is especially vibrant during Krishna Janmashtami, drawing pilgrims from across the country.
The temple stands as a symbol of Raja Man Singh’s unwavering devotion and Jaipur’s historical connection to Lord Krishna, making it a spiritual beacon for generations.
Summing Up
Charan Mandir is more than just a place of worship; it is a testament to faith, mythology, and history intertwined. Through Siddha Swaroop Das Prabhu’s narration, the story of this temple serves as a reminder of Jaipur’s enduring relationship with its divine roots and its commitment to preserving its spiritual heritage.