Chaurasi Khamba, Mahavan
About Chaurasi Khamba
Chaurasi Khamba, located in Mahavan (Old Gokul), is a sacred and historical site connected to Lord Krishna’s childhood. It is believed to be the house of Nanda Maharaja, where Krishna and Balarama lived with Nanda Maharaja and Yashoda until Krishna was 2.5 years old.
The house, known as Nanda Bhavan, was built over 5,000 years ago by the divine architect Vishvakarma. It stands on a hill and is supported by 84 pillars, which is why it is called “Chaurasi Khamba” (Chaurasi means “84” in Hindi). These original pillars are said to date back to Nanda Maharaja’s time. Inside the temple, there are three main deities: Nanda Maharaja on the left, Yashoda on the right, and Lord Balarama in the center. Below them is a deity of baby Krishna, seen swinging in a cradle.
The Attack on Chaurasi Khamba
Historical texts like Tarikh-e-Yamini mention that Mahmud Ghaznavi attacked Mathura and destroyed many magnificent temples, including Chaurasi Khamba and Krishna Janmabhoomi. The temple was looted for 20 days, and treasures like gold and diamonds that adorned the walls were taken away.
Krishna’s Pastimes at Chaurasi Khamba
- The Defeat of Putana:
At this very place, the demoness Putana came disguised as a mother, smeared poison on her breasts, and tried to kill baby Krishna by feeding Him. However, Krishna sucked out her life along with the poison and liberated her from her demonic form. This act also fulfilled her wish from a previous life to serve the Lord as a foster mother. - The Crushing of the Cart Demon:
During Krishna’s birthday celebration, He was sleeping in a cradle under a cart. An invisible demon sent by Kamsa tried to crush Him. Baby Krishna joyfully kicked the cart, killing the demon and causing the cart to collapse. This miraculous event amazed everyone present, and Mother Yashoda performed rituals for Krishna’s safety. - Nanda Baba’s Goshala:
In the cowshed of Nanda Baba, the sage Gargacharya performed the name-giving ceremony for Krishna and Balarama. Gargacharya predicted their divine powers and heroic deeds. Nanda Maharaja kept the ceremony low-key, fearing Kamsa’s wrath.
Chaurasi Khamba Temple Photos
Chaurasi Khamba Temple Distance
| Place Name | Distance |
|---|---|
|
Mathura Railway Station |
13 km |
|
Barsana |
55 Km |
|
Mathura |
13 km |
|
Vrindavan |
30 km |
How to Reach
By Road: You can easily hire a cab from Agra, Mathura, or Delhi to travel to the Chaurasi Khamba. It is approx. 160 km from Delhi, 40 kms from Agra, 13 kms from Mathura.
By Train: The city is well-connected with almost all cities across the country. The nearest railway station is in Mathura, located 13 kms away.
By Air: The nearest fully functional commercial airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi 170 km away.