logo
Kirti Mandir: Where even the wind whispers 'Radhe Radhe'

Kirti Mandir: Where even the wind whispers 'Radhe Radhe'

Time of India24-05-2025
PRAYAGRAJ: In the heart of Braj, Kirti Mandir stands as a shining symbol of devotion, architectural brilliance, and humanitarian spirit. Located in Rangeeli Mahal, Barsana Dham, this spiritually resonant temple is the world's first and only shrine depicting Shri Radha Rani in her divine childhood form, tenderly seated in the lap of her mother Kirti Maiya.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Inaugurated on the auspicious day of Basant Panchmi on Feb 10 in 2019, Kirti Mandir was envisioned by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj and brought to completion through the tireless efforts of his daughters and Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP) presidents — Vishakha Tripathi, Shyama Tripathi and Krishna Tripathi.
Built over 12 years, this 80,000-square-foot temple is a true architectural marvel, integrating elements of both Nagara and Dravidian styles without the use of cement or steel.
The exterior features pink sandstone intricately carved by master artisans, while the interior is adorned with Italian Carrara marble inlaid with semi-precious stones.
A distinctive spiritual element of the temple is the inclusion of 38 devotional couplets from Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj's compositions Radha Govind Geet and Shyama Shyam Geet, inlaid in marble, making the sacred text a part of the very structure.
The sanctum sanctorum houses the unprecedented deity of baby Radha cradled in Kirti Maiya's lap — a depiction never seen before. Flanking them are idols of Shri Sita Rama and Shri Radha Krishna, with Ashtamahasakhis, Shri Radha Rani's eight eternal companions, enshrined nearby.
The spirit of divine love and service
The temple's design and spiritual significance echo the deep vatsalya bhava, the sacred maternal love, experienced by Kirti Maiya for Shri Radha.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
According to scriptural tradition, Kirti Maiya and Vrishabhanu Ji performed penance for over 4.3 million years to receive the divine blessing of being Radha Rani's parents.
The temple is also a centre of visual devotion, with walls adorned by vivid paintings of Shri Radha's pastimes with her sakhis and Shri Krishna's divine glance filled with love. The temple's spires are said to radiate Radha's divine name across the cosmos, making it a beacon for spiritual seekers worldwide.
Commitment to Seva
Adjacent to the temple is the Jagadguru Kripalu Chikitsalaya (JKC), which offers 100% free medical services to the underprivileged. At the time of the temple's inauguration, over 50,000 villagers were provided with essential items in a large-scale distribution drive. This tradition of selfless seva (service) continues to this day through regular health camps and support initiatives.
About Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP)
Founded by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj in 1970, JKP is a spiritual, educational, and philanthropic non-profit dedicated to spreading devotion to Radha-Krishna and serving humanity through charitable schools, colleges, hospitals, temples and welfare programs.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Why Is Non-Veg Food Not Banned Around South Indian Temples
Why Is Non-Veg Food Not Banned Around South Indian Temples

News18

time24-07-2025

  • News18

Why Is Non-Veg Food Not Banned Around South Indian Temples

Last Updated: Unlike in North India, South Indian temples often coexist with nearby non-vegetarian shops, reflecting on local culture, livelihood, and a more inclusive view of religion In contrast to North India, where food near sacred sites is often policed for purity, South India offers a more pragmatic and inclusive approach to dietary diversity, even around revered Hindu temples. Food And Faith: A Cultural Distinction While religious devotion runs deep in South India, food choices are largely viewed as personal or economic, rather than moral. Unlike in North India, where vegetarianism is closely linked with religious observance, South Indian traditions often separate ritual purity within temple spaces from dietary habits outside. Communities such as Nairs, Reddys, Vokkaligas, Thevars, and even some Brahmins in Kerala and Bengal have long included meat and fish in their diets. Non-vegetarianism here is part of cultural identity rather than a mark of religious impurity. Temple Management And Social Influence Another key difference lies in how temples are administered. In North India, many temples are overseen by politically or socially driven organisations, which often promote strict vegetarianism. In the South, however, temples are typically run by Devasthanam boards or mathas (monasteries) that reflect a broader cross-section of local communities, making rigid dietary enforcement uncommon. The influence of the Dravidian movement, Ambedkarite thought, and regional politics has further contributed to a more inclusive, less polarised religious atmosphere. As a result, dietary restrictions are not imposed on the surrounding public. In temple towns like Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh, local communities, particularly fishermen, depend on non-vegetarian food sales for their livelihood. Expecting the removal of such shops in these areas is not only impractical but morally questionable. Coastal abundance and ancient Dravidian culinary traditions have normalised the presence of fish and meat in these regions. Many rural and folk traditions in South India, including certain Shaivite and Shakta rituals, even incorporate meat offerings. Therefore, meat shops near temples do not spark widespread opposition. Different Notions Of Purity And Worship South Indian religiosity often emphasises bhakti (devotion), inward spirituality, and inclusive practice rather than controlling the behaviour of others. This enables a more tolerant environment, where dietary habits coexist with deep religious faith. Even historically, South Indian rulers such as the Cholas and Pandyas, known for their temple patronage, were meat-eaters, further cementing the cultural normalisation of non-vegetarian diets alongside religious devotion. Vegetarianism: A Regional Divide Statistically, the percentage of vegetarians is far higher in states like Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan. In contrast, the majority of people in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana regularly consume non-vegetarian food, with only a small percentage identifying as strictly vegetarian. Temples With Nearby Non-Vegetarian Food Outlets Despite the sacred nature of the following temples, non-vegetarian restaurants are found close by: Rameswaram, Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu): A Jyotirlinga shrine surrounded by seafood restaurants supporting the local fishing community. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai (Tamil Nadu): Located in a vibrant part of the city with mutton biryani shops nearby. Chidambaram Nataraja Temple (Tamil Nadu): Surrounded by both vegetarian and non-vegetarian eateries. Arunachaleshwar Temple, Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu): Non-veg food is common in surrounding hotels. Srisailam, Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh): Non-vegetarian dishes are sold in the outer complex, while the inner temple area remains strictly vegetarian. One exception is Tirupati Balaji, Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh, where non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited near the temple, though it is available in the lower town of Tirupati. view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 24, 2025, 11:49 IST News explainers Why Is Non-Veg Food Not Banned Around South Indian Temples | Explained Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurates renovated Francis Library building
Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurates renovated Francis Library building

The Hindu

time14-07-2025

  • The Hindu

Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurates renovated Francis Library building

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Monday inaugurated the rebuilt Francis Library at Varaganeri, a public library that had remained in disuse for more than a decade. The facility has been constructed at a cost of ₹26.60 lakh by the Tiruchi City Corporation. The old building, located in Ward 30 of Zone 2, was demolished to make way for a modern structure. The original Francis Library was established in 1952 by Dravidar Kazhagam founder Periyar E.V. Ramasamy in honour of Francis, a prominent leader from Varaganeri and then DK District Secretary. The library was inaugurated during Francis's lifetime, in recognition of his close association with Periyar and his contributions to the Dravidian movement. Over the decades, the structure fell into disrepair, eventually becoming unusable. A few years ago, the Tiruchi City Corporation took over the building and undertook its restoration. Ministers K.N. Nehru (Municipal Administration) and Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi (School Education) were present. Official sources from the corporation said the new library would accommodate up to 15 readers at a time and was equipped with a range of resources, including newspapers, children's literature, books on science and the arts, and materials for competitive exam preparation. A dedicated library staff member had been appointed to assist visitors. District Collector V. Saravanan, Tiruchi East MLA Inigo S. Irudhayaraj, Deputy Mayor G. Divya, and Corporation Commissioner L. Madhubalan were present.

What Makes Chennai's Oldest Temples So Special For Astrology Lovers?
What Makes Chennai's Oldest Temples So Special For Astrology Lovers?

India.com

time11-07-2025

  • India.com

What Makes Chennai's Oldest Temples So Special For Astrology Lovers?

Chennai stands as the capital of Tamil Nadu in southern India where people recognize its historical cultural and spiritual roots. The city offers various attractions including historical temples that demonstrate devotion as well as artistic achievements and architectural perfection since ancient times. The religious centers function as places of prayer and house astrological symbolism that stems from Hindu religious beliefs. The article investigates how several leading temples in Chennai demonstrate alignment with celestial bodies to share deep knowledge about astrology and spiritual beliefs. The Cosmic Connection: Temples and Vedic Astrology Hindu sanctuaries function as complete world representations which unite divine cosmic energies with human earthly reality. Vedic astrology (Jyotisha) requires temples to be built using precise calculations that link with planetary positions and zodiac signs together with nakshatras (lunar constellations). The precise arrangement of temple structures creates an energetic flow which psychic vibrations believe enhances human life positively. Various traditional religious sites across Chennai demonstrate how architects utilize astronomical principles to create their designs. The following section provides detailed examinations of some specific instances. 1. Kapaleeswarar Temple: A Celestial Blueprint History traces the Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore back to over 1,300 years as one of the oldest Shiva temples in Chennai. Shiva alone receives worship at this temple which displays Dravidian architectural styles among its expansive festivals. Kapaleeswarar Temple Astrological Significance: Vaastu Shastra guides temple builders when establishing the precise orientation since it stands as a traditional Indian architectural science tied to astrological practices. The main sanctuary aspect toward the eastern direction guarantees the sun's sunrise illumination for the holy statue which signifies both new beginnings and spiritual enlightenment. Mercury (Budha) dominates Kapaleeswarar Temple because this deity represents fundamental characteristics such as intellectual understanding and speech abilities as well as knowledge acquisition. Those who want mental clarity together with academic success frequently worship at this temple to receive divine blessings. Every year during the Brahmotsavam festival rituals are conducted according to nakshatras which boosts their religious power. THe Procession takes place only at favorable star timings to achieve maximum spiritual blessings. 2. Parthasarathy Temple: A Confluence of Planetary Energies As an important destination within Chennai's boundaries you will discover the Parthasarathy Temple located within Triplicane district. The Pallava dynasty constructed this temple in the eighth century as a dedication to Lord Krishna while he guided Arjuna during the events of the Mahabharata. Parthasarathy Temple Astrological Significance: The temple distinguishes itself by having five consecrated statues representing different personae of Vishnu including Krishna and his four other manifestations of Narasimha and Rama and Varaha and Kalki. Vedic astrology connects Lord Krishna to the Moon (Chandra) as his major divinity at the temple. Through its associations with the Moon and governance over emotions and intuition the temple draws many visitors searching for emotional wellness and inner tranquility. The temple rituals must match beneficial cosmic planetary movements. The temple sees its full moon days also known as Purnima as the ideal time to perform prayers focused on prosperity alongside family harmony. 3. Marundeeswarar Temple: Healing Through Cosmic Energy In Thiruvanmiyur stands the Marundeeswarar Temple where people worship Lord Shiva as the deity who heals diseases. The temple deity Marundeeswarar receives this name because it signifies medical and healing powers. Marundeeswarar Temple Astrological Significance: According to Vedic astrological traditions Saturn (Shani) controls health difficulties as well as the lessons derived from karma. The religious belief says Marundeeswarar Temple provides refuge to people experiencing the dangerous Saturn cycle known as Sade Sati by absorbing its negative energy. Yantras with mantras drawn on them serve as essential elements at this temple to guide planetary energies toward healing and protective purposes. People who perform abhishekams of the lingam with medicinal herbal-infused water honor Saturn by cleansing and rejuvenating both the divinity and its devotees through this holy practice. 4. Ashtalakshmi Temple: Invoking Divine Feminine Power The Ashtalakshmi Temple stands proudly at Besant Nagar shoreline as a contemporary spiritual place that opened its doors in 1976. This temple consists of eight deities representing Goddess Lakshmi who unite together as Ashtalakshmi. Ashtalakshmi Temple Astrological Significance: The eight forms of Lakshmi correspond precisely with life's aspects which include wealth, knowledge, courage, victory, progeny, strength, fame and nourishment and align with the planetary and nakshatra influences. Visiting the temple on Venus-dominated Friday evenings is considered most fortunate because Venus controls beauty and material wealth together with all the qualities that define Goddess Lakshmi. People who visit this temple during Jupiter retrograde often conduct homa rituals because they seek spiritual insights and knowledge from the deity described as Guru. Temples as Cosmic Bridges In their construction of these temples the ancient builders integrated their knowledge about how celestial movements affect personal destinies. The architects incorporated astrological principles into their constructions to produce sacred areas that enabled worshipers to reach superior powers and gather celestial energy for self-improvement. For instance: Temples organize Navagraha puja ceremonies (worshiping nine planets) in order to offset adverse consequences that stem from unfavorable planetary positions. Ritual scheduling takes place when the sun rises or sets or the moon reaches its highest point in the sky because it boosts the power of devotional prayers. Temple walls receive their divine power from sacred geometric designs that include mandalas along with lotus motifs. Conclusion The ancient temples within Chennai serve as active monuments containing the eternal Indian knowledge pertaining to cosmic principles and human life. Click here to read an alternate version of this text about solar and lunar temples and their continuing effect on millions of followers around the world. Exploring these temples provides visitors with a unique chance to observe the sacred connection between divine power and human existence.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store