Information of Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple, Vrindavan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Gopinath Temple is a popular temple in Vrindavan. According to legend,it was created by MadhuPandit, a close supporter of Gadadhar Pandit. Inside the temple, there are three keyidols of Gopinathji, Radhika and Jahnava. Among them, the idol of lord Gopinath was initially created in 5000 years ago by Vajarnaba, who is regarded as the grandson of god Krishna. Throughout the oppression of Mughal king Aurangzeb, the original idols of Gopinathji, Radhika and Jahnava was shifted to Jaipur along with other idols.

Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple Religious Significance

The idols in Gopinath Templeare worshipped by MadhuPanditGoswamiwho was one of the close associates of guru Chaitanya. He was also a close loving companion of six other Goswamis in Vrindavan. According to legend, the idol of Gopinathji was lost for long period of time. However, one great devotee named Paramananda Bhattacharya revived the lost idol. Radhanath Swami defined the story behind the re-emergence of Gopinathji throughout his journey to Vrindavan. It was stated that one night lord Gopinath appeared in the dream of Paramananda Bhattacharya and told his whereabouts under a tree named VamshiVata. Thus, according to the dream Paramananda went there and revived the idol. Adjacent to popular place Vanshivat, on the panel of River Yamuna, Paramananda Bhattacharya along with MadhuPandit used to worship lord Radha Krishna couple with extreme devotion.

In accordance with another version, once river Yamuna had over flooded and the original VamshiVata Tree got deracinated. Thus, the devotee Paramananda Bhattacharya took a branch of the tree and planted it so that the tree can grow again. It was during that time that he discovered the original lovely idol of lord Gopinathji. He started to worship the idol and later the idol was handed over to MadhuPanditGoswami. It is explained that when MadhuPandit perceived the lovely idol of Gopinath, he decided to dedicate his life and spirit for the sake of lord Gopinath.

Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple Mythology & History

There is a great story behind the creation of the idols of Gopinath, Radhika and Jahnavain Gopinath Temple. It was stated that once upon a time the wife of Nityananda, ThakuraniJahnavacame to Vrindavan in order to see the deity of RadhaGopinath. By observing the deity, she assumed that the idol of Radhika was quite small and if it would be a little large, the couple would appear much attractive. After observing the evening ritual, Jahnava returned to her house. On that night she saw a dream of Gopinath telling her to organise a taller deity of Radhika. She also obtained similar instruction from goddess Radhika to create a tall idol which can be more suitable with the idol of lord Gopinath. Moreover, being satisfied by the unwavering dedication of Jahnava, goddess Radhika also offered her place as Jahnavadeviamong the idols.The present idols of Gopinath, Radhika and Jahnava are believed to the outcome of such instruction.

According to historical records, the original temple of Gopinath Temple was created by Ray Singh in the year 1632 AD. He was the son of king Kalyanamala of Rathaur family. However, Mughal king Aurangzeb destroyed the original temple and replicas of the idols were created in the year 1748 AD. Furthermore, new Gopinath Temple was also established in the year 1819 AD.

Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Temple Architectural Significance

At present, the replicas of the idols of Gopinathji and Radhikaare resided in the new temple created by Nand Kumar Vasu. In Gopinath Temple, the beautiful idol of Gopinathji is positioned at the centre with other idols. The idol of Jahnava is placed on the left side of the idol of Gopinathand idol of Radhika is positioned on the right side. There is also an idol of LalitaSakhi among them. Apart from that the idol of Gaurasundara is situated in separate compartment of Gopinath Temple.