Khatu Shyam Ji: The ‘Haare Ka Sahara’ and the Power of Devotion

Located in the heart of Rajasthan, Khatu Shyam Ji is a place of profound spirituality and immense faith. This pilgrimage town is dedicated to Khatu Shyam, a revered deity believed to be a manifestation of Barbarika, a legendary warrior from the Mahabharata. This tour is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a timeless tradition and experience the incredible power of devotion.

The Story of a Sacred Sacrifice

The core of Khatu Shyam Ji’s reverence lies in the story of Barbarika, the grandson of the Pandava Bhima. He was a brave warrior who possessed three infallible arrows, which could have single-handedly won the Kurukshetra War. To prevent him from causing an imbalance in the war, Lord Krishna, in the guise of a Brahmin, asked for his head as a sacrifice. Barbarika, a true devotee, willingly offered his head. Pleased with his immense sacrifice, Lord Krishna blessed him with the boon that he would be worshipped in the Kali Yuga by the name of “Shyam,” an incarnation of Krishna himself. The main temple is where his head, or ‘Sheesh,’ is venerated.

The Heart of the Pilgrimage

The main highlight of the tour is a visit to the Khatu Shyam Ji Temple. Built with beautiful white Makrana marble, the temple’s intricate carvings and grand architecture are a sight to behold. You can participate in one of the daily aartis, where the atmosphere is charged with the collective faith of thousands of devotees chanting “Jai Shri Shyam.” The temple’s sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Khatu Shyam is enshrined, is a place of deep reverence and spiritual energy.

Near the temple is the Shyam Kund, a sacred pond from where the head of Khatu Shyam Ji was unearthed. It is believed that a dip in its holy water can cure ailments and bring good fortune. Many devotees take a ritual bath here before heading to the temple. You can also visit Shyam Bagicha, a tranquil garden where flowers are grown to be offered to the deity.

The ‘Haare Ka Sahara’

Khatu Shyam Ji is affectionately known as “Haare Ka Sahara,” meaning “the support of the defeated” or “the one who helps those who have lost.” Millions of devotees, from all walks of life, come to this sacred town seeking his blessings to overcome their troubles and find new hope. The annual Phalgun Mela, held during the Hindu month of Phalgun, attracts pilgrims from all over the country, who undertake the “Nishaan Yatra,” a pilgrimage on foot carrying a sacred flag.

This tour to Khatu Shyam Ji is a journey into a world of profound faith and timeless tradition. It’s a chance to witness an enduring legend and leave with a heart full of hope and a soul touched by divine grace.

Included and Excluded

Itinerary