Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir Mathura

Dauji Maharaj Temple, situated approx. 21 kilometres from Mathura city centre is a revered site where devotees worship Lord Shri Balram ji- elder brother of Lord krishna also known as Baldau Ji. Braj Bhoomi tour is not considered complete without darshan of baldau ji in Mathura. The temple boasts four entrances, namely 'Singhchaur', 'Janani Deodhi', and 'Goshala Dwar', also known as the 'big doors'. Also, there is a large pond situated at the back named 'Balbhadra Kund'. A bustling market is set up around the temple, forming a winding path like a coil of snakes. In Baldev, the focal point is undoubtedly the Shri Dauji temple. Yet, there is another captivating feature—the Kshirsagar Pond. Surrounding the pond are concrete ghats, always immersed in water. You can see moss (algae) on the serene water, it would be like cream on milk. It is a common tradition to purify yourself in this sacred lake before proceeding for darshan.

Religious Significance

From a historical perspective, Baldev is considered the oldest deity in Brajmandal. The worship of Baldev and his temple is mentioned in historical evidence found in Chittor inscriptions dating back to the fifth century BCE. Also, inscriptions from Arpatak, Bhorgaon Nanaghtika, dating from the first to the second century AD, reference the Baldev idol of Junsuthi, which belongs to the Sunga period. Notably, even on the silver coin of the Greek ruler Agathocles, there is a depiction of a sword-bearing Balram.

Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir - Darshan Timings

To get a darshan of Dauji Maharaj, you can choose morning time as opening timings for temple are 7 am to 12 noon. Evening opening time for Dauji Temple is 5:30 pm and closing time is 9:00 pm.

Darshan of Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir’s Idol

Resting on a two-foot-high marble throne, facing the eastern horizon is an idol that whispers tales from mythological times. This divine sculpture, dedicated to Baldevji, traces its origins back to the era of 'Dwapar Yuga.’ If we were to dub Vigraha of Baldevji as the oldest among the ancient abodes in Brajmandal, it would not be an overstatement.

Standing tall at approximately 8 feet and three and a half feet wide, this dark-coloured idol portrays Baldevji in a dancing posture. His right hand gracefully assumes the Varada Mudra above his head, while the left-hand holds a chashaka. Adorned with intricate jewellery, bracelets, and a finely carved crown, the idol truly reflects the artistry of its time. As if guarding this celestial figure, Sheshnag rises in the background with seven grand hoods.

Legend of Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir

As the legend goes, Vajranabha, the grandson of Lord Shri Krishna, embraced the wisdom of his great ancestors. To keep alive his legacy and maintain a sacred order of worship, idols of four gods and four goddesses were beautifully crafted and preserved. Among these, the idol of Baldevji takes centre stage, with a rich history that dates back over two thousand years, according to archaeologists.

History of Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir

The temple faced a setback during British rule when Grous, the appointed collector, sought to build a church at the revered Baldev site. Despite the established rule that no construction could occur on 256 acres of land without permission, Grous proceeded without any regard. The temple owner, Mr Dauji, resisted this unauthorised construction. Grouse then terrorized the Panda class and other residents. However, with the intervention of a prominent Seth and Maharaj Mursan from Agra, Grouse was eventually transferred to Bulandshahr. The site where Grouse intended to build a church now hosts a Basic Primary School, known as Western School.

Also, during the Firangi era, the temple became a central gathering point for patriots, where they received help and shelter. When the British rulers discovered this, they warned the temple owners. Well, the temple owners continued to help. A guard was stationed at the temple to prevent freedom lovers from entering. However, the fort-like walls surrounding the temple could not completely halt the visitors. Taking advantage of this, freedom fighters managed to enter the temple. After finishing their food, they would successfully return to their desired locations.

Distance of Shri Dauji Maharaj Mandir from Railway Station

Shri Dauji Maharaj Temple is approx. 21 Kms distant from Mathura and can be reached by private cabs, bus or taxis. To visit this temple, book 2 days Mathura Vrindavan tour package and complete Brij Bhoomi Darshan tour.