The Udupi Shreekrishna temple

 The **Udupi Sri Krishna Temple**, located in the town of Udupi in Karnataka, India, is one of the most famous and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is renowned for its unique idol of Lord Krishna, its rich history, and its deep spiritual significance. The temple is also closely associated with the **Dvaita philosophy** of Saint **Madhvacharya**, who established the temple in the 13th century.


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### **Origin and History**

1. **Legend of the Idol**:

   - According to legend, the idol of Lord Krishna in the Udupi temple was discovered by Madhvacharya. It is said that the idol was stuck to a ship carrying a load of ghee (clarified butter). Madhvacharya, through his divine powers, rescued the idol and installed it in Udupi.

   - The idol is unique because it is worshipped as **Bala Krishna** (child Krishna) holding a churning rod and rope, symbolizing his playful and mischievous nature.


2. **Madhvacharya's Role**:

   - The temple was established by **Madhvacharya** (1238–1317), the founder of the **Dvaita school of Vedanta**. He is believed to have consecrated the idol and set up the temple's rituals and traditions.

   - Madhvacharya also established the **Ashta Mathas** (eight monasteries) around the temple, each responsible for managing the temple in a rotational system.


3. **Historical Significance**:

   - The temple has been a center of learning and devotion for centuries. It played a key role in spreading the Dvaita philosophy and continues to be a hub of spiritual and cultural activities.


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### **Importance of Udupi Sri Krishna Temple**

1. **Spiritual Significance**:

   - The temple is considered one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for devotees of Lord Krishna. It is believed that a visit to the temple grants spiritual liberation and fulfills the wishes of devotees.

   - The temple is also known for its strict adherence to Vedic rituals and traditions.


2. **Cultural Hub**:

   - The temple is a center of Karnataka's cultural and religious traditions. It has inspired numerous devotional songs, dances, and literary works.


3. **Unique Worship Style**:

   - Unlike most temples, the idol of Lord Krishna in Udupi is worshipped through a window with nine holes called the **Navagraha Kitiki**. This unique practice is said to have been established by Madhvacharya to protect the idol from damage.


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### **Special Poojas and Rituals**

The temple follows a strict schedule of rituals and poojas, performed with great devotion and precision. Some of the key rituals include:


1. **Nirmalya Darshanam**:

   - The first darshan of the day, where devotees can see the deity adorned with the previous day's garlands.


2. **Usha Pooja**:

   - The morning pooja performed at dawn.


3. **Ucha Pooja**:

   - The midday pooja, accompanied by the offering of food to the deity.


4. **Rathotsava**:

   - A grand chariot festival where the idol of Lord Krishna is taken out in a procession on a beautifully decorated chariot.


5. **Laksha Deepotsava**:

   - A festival of lights where thousands of lamps are lit in the temple premises.


6. **Paryaya Festival**:

   - A unique festival where the administration of the temple is transferred from one Matha (monastery) to another in a grand ceremony. This happens once every two years.


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### **Festivals at Udupi Sri Krishna Temple**

1. **Krishna Janmashtami**:

   - The birthday of Lord Krishna, celebrated with great fervor. The temple is decorated, and special poojas are performed.


2. **Paryaya Festival**:

   - Held once every two years, this festival marks the transfer of temple administration from one Matha to another. It is celebrated with grand processions and cultural programs.


3. **Rathotsava**:

   - A grand chariot festival where the idol of Lord Krishna is taken out in a procession on a beautifully decorated chariot.


4. **Laksha Deepotsava**:

   - A festival of lights where thousands of lamps are lit in the temple premises.


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### **Contributions to the Economy of Udupi**

1. **Tourism and Pilgrimage**:

   - The temple attracts millions of devotees annually, making it one of the busiest pilgrimage centers in India. The influx of pilgrims supports local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops selling religious items.


2. **Infrastructure Development**:

   - The temple administration has contributed to the development of the town's infrastructure, including roads, water supply, and sanitation facilities.


3. **Cultural Preservation**:

   - The temple has played a key role in preserving and promoting Karnataka's traditional art forms, such as **Yakshagana** and **Bharatanatyam**, through regular performances and festivals.


4. **Educational and Charitable Initiatives**:

   - The temple runs schools, colleges, and hospitals, providing education and healthcare services to the local community.


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### **Routine Changes of Priests**

1. **Ashta Mathas System**:

   - The temple is managed by the **Ashta Mathas** (eight monasteries) established by Madhvacharya. Each Matha is responsible for managing the temple in a rotational system, with the head of the Matha (Swamiji) serving as the chief priest for a period of two years.

   - This unique system ensures that the temple's administration and rituals are carried out smoothly and without bias.


2. **Paryaya Festival**:

   - The transfer of temple administration from one Matha to another is celebrated during the **Paryaya Festival**. The incoming Swamiji takes charge of the temple and performs the first pooja, marking the beginning of his two-year term.


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### **Conclusion**

The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of faith, culture, and tradition. Its rich history, spiritual significance, and contributions to the development of Udupi city make it a cornerstone of Karnataka's religious and cultural landscape. For millions of devotees, a visit to Udupi is a journey of devotion, offering solace and divine blessings.

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