Shri Radha Vallabh Mandir, also known as Shri Radha Vallabhlal Ji Temple, is a historic Hindu temple located in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, India. Dedicated to Radha and Krishna, it is a prominent center of the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya, a Vaishnavite tradition that reveres Radha as the supreme deity.
🛕 History & Significance
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Established: 1585 CE
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Founder: Goswami Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu
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Architect: Sundardas Bhatnagar
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Royal Patronage: Received support from Emperor Akbar’s court
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Location: Near Gotam Nagar, Vrindavan
The temple was constructed during the Mughal era using red sandstone, a material typically reserved for imperial buildings. Legend has it that the deity of Radha Vallabh was not sculpted by a human but was a divine gift from Lord Shiva to a devotee named Atmadev.
🕊️ Unique Worship Tradition
Unlike most temples, Radha Vallabh Mandir does not house a physical idol of Radha. Instead, the presence of Radha is symbolized by a braid placed on Krishna’s crown, signifying their inseparable union in the form of “Yugal Jodi”.
📅 Festivals & Celebrations
The temple is known for its vibrant celebrations of:
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Radhashtami: Celebrating the birth of Radha
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Janmashtami: Marking the birth of Krishna
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Holi: Festival of colors
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Sharad Purnima: Harvest festival
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Hitotsav: Commemorating the teachings of Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu