Rukmini Devi Temple

Gujarat, Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gandhinagar

Rukmini temple stands 2 km away from Dwarka City where the Jagat Mandir temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is situated. Devotees believe that the pilgrimage to Dwarakadhish Mandir is incomplete if they don't go to offer prayers at Rukmini Temple. The temple is said to be 2,500 years old but its present form is inferred to belong to the 12th century.

Legend

The legend behind this temple is that one day, Durvasa Muni, was invited by Lord Krishna and his wife, Rukmini, to dinner. According to the etiquette the hosts must not eat until the guest has been offered food. However, on the way to dinner, Rukmini became thirsty and asked Krishna for water. Krishna prodded the ground with his toe, and drew water from the Ganges. Rukmini drank this water to quench her thirst. Sage Durvasa became angry and insulted that she did not offer him water first. He cursed her that she would live separately from her husband. That is why it is believed that Rukmini's temple is located at a distance from the Krishna temple at Dwaraka.

Architecture

The temple has two different types of domes - a tiered steep dome atop of which the flag of the shrine flies as well as plain broad dome. The outside of this temple is carved and has a panel of sculpted naratharas along with a panel of sculpted elephants. The sanctum enshrines a beautiful marble deity of Devi Rukmini, with four hands or Chaturbhuja. These four hands hold Shanka, Chakra, Gada and Padma.

Darsan Info

Devotees believe that the pilgrimage to Dwarakadish is incomplete without the darshan of Rukmini Devi

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire

Famous Festival

April - Rukmini Dwadashi (April/May)

Culture

Dwaraka is a sacred city in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. It is considered to be one of the seven holy places where spiritual liberation can be attained. The place witnesses a huge flow of devotees to the Jagat Mandir dedicated to Lord Krishna.