BANKAHNDI MAHADEV

The Bankhandi Mahadev Temple holds deep spiritual significance in Vrindavan’s devotional heritage. During his stay in Vrindavan, Shri Sanatana Goswami, one of the principal disciples of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, resided in his bhajana-kutir near the old Shri Madana-Mohana Temple. Out of his steadfast devotion, he would daily walk to take darshan of Shri Gopishwar Mahadev, the protector of Vrindavan.

In his later years, when age made this daily journey difficult, Shri Gopishwar Mahadev appeared to Sanatana Goswami in a dream and lovingly instructed:
“In your old age, please do not trouble yourself to come so far. I will manifest myself closer to your kutir at Bankhandi.”

The very next day, Gopishwar Mahadev manifested at Bankhandi, near Sanatana Goswami’s place of residence. Overwhelmed with divine ecstasy, Sanatana Goswami began taking his darshan there daily, and thus this manifestation came to be known as Bankhandi Mahadev.

Spiritual Importance

  • Manifestation of Gopishwar Mahadev out of compassion for Shri Sanatana Goswami.

  • A living symbol of Lord Shiva’s role as the protector of Vrindavan Dham.

  • A sacred place where devotees remember the affectionate relationship between Mahadev and the Vaishnava saints.

Location

The Bankhandi Mahadev Temple is located at the junction of three roads at the end of Athkhamba, on the route from the famous Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan.

Timings

Summer:

  • Morning: 07:30 AM – 12:30 PM

  • Evening: 04:30 PM – 09:00 PM

Winter:

  • Morning: 08:30 AM – 12:00 Noon

  • Evening Aarti: 05:00 PM – 09:00 PM

 

Bankhandi Mahadev stands as a sacred testimony to the compassion of Lord Shiva and his eternal service in preserving the sanctity of Vrindavan Dham.