Rukmini Devi Temple

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Rukmini Devi Temple
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DistrictDwarka
DeityGoddess Rukmini
FestivalsRukmini Ashtami
Location
LocationDwarka
StateGujarat
CountryIndia
Architecture
Completed12th Century
Rukmini Devi Temple

The Rukmini Devi Temple is a temple in Dwarka, 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) away from Dwarka, Gujarat, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Rukmini (Lord Krishna's chief queen, beloved consort and the incarnation of Devi Lakshmi in Dvapara Yuga). The temple is said to be 2,500 years old but in its present form it is inferred to belong to the 12th century.

Description[]

It is a richly carved temple decorated with sculptures of gods and goddesses on the exterior with the sanctum housing the main image of Maa Rukmini. Carved naratharas (human figures) and carved gajatharas (elephants) are depicted in panels at the base of the tower.

Legends[]

An interesting legend is narrated to justify separate dwelling temples, far away from each other, for Maa Rukmini and her husband Sri Krishna. It is said that at the request of sage Durvasa (who was renowned for his short temper and bestowing curses)Sri Krishna and Maa Rukmini pulled a chariot taking sage Durvasa to their house for dinner. On the way, when Maa Rukmini asked for water to quench her thirst,Sri Krishna drew Ganges water, by prodding the ground with his toe, for her to drink.Maa Rukmini quenched her thirst with the Ganges water. But Durvasa felt insulted as Maa Rukmini did not offer him water to drink first. He, therefore, cursed her that she would live separately from her husband.[1]

References[]

  1. ^ "Jamnagar". Government of Gujarat Tourism. Retrieved 14 April 2015.

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