Divine Marvels: Radha Parthasarathi Temple Unveiled

Krishna, a name that resonates with the color black in Sanskrit, embodies charm and allure. His divine form, adorned in the captivating hue, playing the flute, captivates the hearts of the Gopikas. Standing beside him on the altar is Radha, the foremost among the Gopikas, deeply enamored by Krishna's enchanting melodies. Flanking this divine couple are Lalita and Vishaka, two prominent Gopikas among eight companions (Ashta Gopis), equally drawn to the irresistible charm of Krishna. This sacred depiction forms the heart of the Radha Parthasarathi temple, fondly known as the ISKCON temple, nestled in the serene surroundings of East of Kailash in Delhi.

Not only do the Gopikas surrender themselves to the Lord of the most beautiful things, namely Krishna, but even his devotees find solace and devotion in his divine presence. Another shrine depicts Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda joyfully dancing and singing Keertans of Krishna. Their exuberance and devotion are palpable in the intricate sculptures that adorn the shrine.

Moving on, we come across a shrine dedicated to the ferocious form of Lord Narasimha, fiercely slaying the evil Asura with his bare nails. The depiction is awe-inspiring and fearful, invoking a sense of reverence and respect.

However, any lingering fear dissipates when we encounter the same divine entity in a serene and peaceful form as Lord Rama. Here, he is accompanied by his beloved younger brother Lakshmana, his divine consort Sita, and the ever-loyal devotee Hanuman. This tranquil depiction of Rama brings a sense of calm and peace to all who gaze upon it, enveloping the devotees in a sense of divine protection and love.

We encounter yet another shrine dedicated to the tender moments of infant Krishna with his loving mother Yasoda. The portrayal of their bond is heartwarming, evoking a sense of maternal love and divine innocence.

As we move further into the temple, our eyes are drawn to the ornate ceilings adorned with intricate paintings. These paintings predominantly depict scenes from the life of Krishna, along with some depicting the glorious tales of Lord Rama. Every stroke of the brush tells a divine story, enveloping the devotees in the divine aura of these sacred tales.

The walls of the entire temple are a canvas of vibrant mural paintings, each telling a story of Krishna's divine play and leelas. These captivating artworks serve as a visual feast for the soul, inviting devotees to immerse themselves in the divine realm of Krishna consciousness.

This renowned temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radharani holds a significant place in the hearts of devotees. It was inaugurated on 5th April 1998 by the esteemed former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The temple stands as a beacon of Bhakti Yoga and Krishna Consciousness, with an estimated cost of INR12 crores, overcoming hurdles to acquire the land for its sacred purpose.

Among its many treasures, the ISKCON sanctuary in Delhi houses the Astounding Bhagavad Gita, acclaimed as one of the most important religious books ever printed. This monumental book weighs over 800 kilograms, embodying the profound teachings of the holy Bhagavad Gita. Its Italian version stands as a testament to the universal appeal of its teachings, reaching readers far and wide.

The temple transcends boundaries of race, nationality, and caste. Here, Europeans, Americans, and people from all corners of India unite in devotion to Lord Krishna, transcending worldly divides. In the divine presence of the Lord, all are one and the same, bound together by their unwavering devotion.

The surroundings come alive with the bustling energy of numerous shops, offering a variety of sacred items and mementos for devotees. A magnificent fountain graces the courtyard, its cascading waters symbolizing the eternal flow of devotion and love for the divine. Here, amidst the artistry and serenity, devotees find solace and spiritual nourishment, enveloped in the divine aura of the Radha Parthasarathi temple.

Happy travelling.