SHRI RADHA SHYAM SUNDAR TEMPLE

Shri Radha Shyam Sundar Temple is a spiritually significant and historically revered shrine in Vrindavan, established by Srila Baladev Vidya Bhushana, the great Gaudiya Vaishnava acharya, on Vasant Panchami in 1719. This temple holds a special place in the spiritual landscape of Vrindavan as it reflects both deep devotion and rich tradition.

Spiritual & Historical Significance

The original small deity of Shri Shyamsundar was lovingly worshipped by Srila Baladev Vidya Bhushana. However, due to the delicate size, dressing and decoration of the deity became a challenge. To offer better seva, Baladev Vidya Bhushana procured sacred stone from Nilgiri Hills in Orissa and commissioned a new deity of Shri Shyamsundar. Alongside, a charming deity of Srimati Radharani, crafted from ashta-dhatu (eight metals), was also installed.

This temple also carries the distinction of being the first in Vrindavan to introduce Mangala Arati, a tradition started in commemoration of Srila Baladev Vidya Bhushana’s victory in the celebrated philosophical debate at Galta. The Mangala Arati continues here uninterrupted till today, making it a unique devotional hallmark of the temple.

Temple Timings

Summer:

  • Morning: 07:00 AM – 12:30 PM

  • Evening: 04:30 PM – 09:00 PM

Winter:

  • Morning: 08:30 AM – 12:00 Noon

  • Evening: 05:00 PM – 09:00 PM

Key Highlights of Shri Radha Shyam Sundar Temple

  • Founded in 1719 by Srila Baladev Vidya Bhushana, a renowned Gaudiya Vaishnava acharya.

  • Special Deities: Shri Shyamsundar carved from Nilgiri stone and Srimati Radharani deity crafted from ashta-dhatu.

  • First Mangala Arati in Vrindavan: A tradition that began here and continues without interruption.

  • Historical Legacy: Established in connection with the philosophical victory of Srila Baladev Vidya Bhushana at Galta.

  • Spiritual Atmosphere: Known for its serene devotion and daily worship practices rooted in Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.

Spiritual Essence

 

The Shri Radha Shyam Sundar Temple is not just a place of worship but a living testimony to devotion, philosophy, and tradition. Here, the eternal forms of Radha and Shyam are worshipped with deep love, reminding devotees of the triumph of divine knowledge and the sweetness of bhakti.