Historical Background and Origin Shri Banke Bihari Ji Temple, one of the most revered temples in Vrindavan, is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his child-like form. The temple was established by the great Krishna devotee Swami Haridas Ji, a saint of the Bhakti movement from the 16th century. Legend of the Appearance of the Deity: Swami Haridas Ji, known for his intense devotion, resided in Nidhivan (a sacred grove in Vrindavan). While singing the divine compositions in devotion to Krishna, the Lord himself appeared in front of him along with Radha Rani in a unified form. On the request of Swami Haridas Ji, Krishna manifested himself as Banke Bihari Ji, a standing deity with a threefold bending posture. Temple Construction: The present-day temple was built in 1864 to house this sacred idol. Before that, the deity was worshipped in a smaller shrine near Nidhivan. Unique Idol and Worship Style: Unlike other temples, Banke Bihari Ji’s idol is worshipped without a bell or conch sound. The belief is that the child-like form of Krishna does not like loud noises. Temple Timings and Darshan Schedule Shri Banke Bihari Temple follows a strict schedule with no Mangal Aarti (morning aarti) like other temples, as it is believed that Lord Krishna prefers to sleep longer. Summer Timings (March – October) Morning Darshan: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM Evening Darshan: 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM Winter Timings (November – February) Morning Darshan: 8:45 AM to 1:00 PM Evening Darshan: 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM Aarti Timings: Unlike other temples, there is no fixed aarti for the deity except during special occasions. However, aarti is performed only during Janmashtami, Radhashtami, and Jhulan Yatra. Special Rituals and Sevas Devotees can participate in various special sevas (services) to show their devotion to Shri Banke Bihari Ji. These include: Sej Aarti: Offering a bed to Lord Krishna. Rajbhog: Mid-day meal offering to the deity. Shayan Seva: Evening rituals before the Lord rests. Phool Bangla Seva: Special flower decorations in the temple. Chhappan Bhog: An offering of 56 different food items to the deity. Prasad (Holy Offerings) Devotees visiting the temple can receive prasad, which includes: Mishri (Rock Sugar) – Considered auspicious and is distributed to devotees. Makhan-Mishri (Butter and Sugar Offering) – A special offering in remembrance of Lord Krishna’s love for butter. Panchamrit (Milk, Curd, Ghee, Honey, and Sugar) – Offered on special occasions. Dry Fruits and Laddoo Prasad – Offered during Janmashtami and Radhashtami celebrations. Special Festivals Celebrated The temple witnesses huge celebrations during: Holi – Special flower Holi is played in the temple. Janmashtami – Grand midnight celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth. Radhashtami – Celebrated with great devotion, with special darshan of Radha Rani. Jhulan Yatra – A swing festival held in Shravan month. Diwali and Annakut – Special food offerings to Lord Krishna. Photography and Temple Rules Photography and Videography: Strictly prohibited inside the temple premises to maintain the sanctity of the deity. Dress Code: Devotees are encouraged to wear traditional Indian attire. Footwear: Must be removed before entering the temple premises. Notable Personalities Who Visited the Temple The temple has been visited by many prominent spiritual leaders, political figures, and celebrities, including: Swami Vivekananda Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Mahatma Gandhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar Nearby Attractions: Devotees visiting Banke Bihari Temple often explore: Nidhivan (Sacred Grove where Krishna’s Raas Leela is believed to happen every night) Prem Mandir (A grand temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram) ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan (A popular temple known for its vibrant Krishna consciousness movement) Krishna Janmbhoomi, Mathura (The birthplace of Lord Krishna)