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Haryana

Kurukshetra - exploring the religious and heritage sites

By: Travel and Food Network
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Nestled in the heart of Haryana, Kurukshetra is a city steeped in history, mythology, and spirituality. Renowned as the battlefield of the epic Mahabharata, this sacred land beckons pilgrims, scholars, and history enthusiasts alike. Beyond its legendary association with the great war, Kurukshetra boasts a rich tapestry of religious and heritage sites that narrate tales of ancient wisdom, devotion, and cultural significance. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the depths of Kurukshetra's religious and heritage gems, inviting you on a journey through time and spirituality.

Jyotisar Temple

The holiest place in Kurukshetra, Jyotisar Temple, featuring a beautiful temple with a small pond, marks the beginning of any visitor's sacred journey. Within its premises lies a 5,000-year-old Banyan tree, where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita's teachings to his friend Arjuna during the Mahabharata war. Additionally, a marble chariot under the Banyan tree, enclosed in transparent glass, depicts the pivotal sermon. Red "holy wish threads" on the tree's branches and within the temple symbolize the spiritual aspirations of devotees.


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Brahma Sarovar

Brahma Sarovar, among Asia's largest man-made ponds, spans 3600 ft in length, 1500 ft in breadth, and reaches a depth of 45 ft. The name "Brahma" represents Lord Brahma, the Hindu creator of the universe, while "Sarovar" in Hindi translates to 'pond.' Legend has it that Lord Brahma performed a colossal yagya in the land of Kurukshetra, creating the universe, and hence the pond is named after him. Considered sacred in Hinduism, Brahma Sarovar undergoes worship twice a day, at sunrise and sunset. A beautiful temple within the water, accessible via a concrete bridge, adds to the spiritual ambiance.


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The premises also house a giant black stone chariot depicting Lord Krishna and Arjuna. The ghats surrounding the sarovar are named after prominent characters from the Mahabharata.

Sri Krishna Museum

Established by the Kurukshetra Development Board in 1987, the Sri Krishna Museum stands out as a unique institution in India. Comprising six galleries, it intricately narrates the life of Lord Krishna, the story of the Geeta, and the Mahabharata, utilizing artefacts gathered from across the nation. Beyond its historical significance, the museum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse collection of paintings and sculptures sourced from different Indian states. Various art forms, including Chittara, Talapatrachitras, Warli, and Madhubani paintings, adorn different galleries, accompanied by wooden sculptures depicting Lord Krishna in various forms and sizes.

Birla Mandir

Constructed in 1952, Birla Mandir in Kurukshetra is dedicated to Lord Krishna. This expansive temple features a large garden and showcases Lord Krishna's idol, pillars, floor, steps, and statues, all crafted from pristine white marble. The temple walls are adorned with three-dimensional portraits and quotes from sage Vedvyas and Tulsidas. Elegant marble elephant statues flank the stairs leading to the main entrance of the temple. As a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Birla Mandir hosts a grand celebration of the Janamashtmi festival.

Pandava's Haveli

Known as the Kaurav-Pandav temple, Pandava's Haveli boasts a stunning entrance adorned with paintings of diverse Gods and Goddesses, along with intricate floral patterns. Within the Haveli, you'll find idols depicting various Hindu Gods and characters from the Mahabharata. The walls are adorned with paintings illustrating different incidents from the Mahabharata story. Encased in a transparent glass enclosure, a colossal metallic bell from the Mahabharata era is on display, labeled as Pracheen Gaj Ghanta, meaning "Ancient Elephant Bell."

Maa Bhadrakali Temple

Maa Bhadrakali Temple, one of India's 52 Shakti Peeths, holds a profound origin story. According to legends, Goddess Sati, married to Lord Shiva against her father King Daksha's wishes, faced insult at a Yagya ceremony. Unable to bear the humiliation, she immolated herself. Distraught, Lord Shiva wandered with her lifeless body, prompting Lord Vishnu to release the Sudarshan Chakra, dividing Sati's remains into 52 parts, with her right ankle landing in Kurukshetra. The temple is considered blessed, and Saturday visits, along with Goddess worship, are believed to fulfill devotees' wishes. As a token of gratitude, fulfilled devotees offer miniature horses to the temple.


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Sheikh Chilli Tomb

The tomb of Sheikh Chilli, a scholar and mentor to Dara Shikoh, son of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, comprises two tombs, a madarsa, a beautiful garden, and a small archaeological museum. Sheikh Chilli's octagonal tomb, constructed from buff sandstone, features a pearl-shaped marble dome resembling a crown. His wife's tomb, made from red sandstone, boasts a marble dome and intricate floral designs, drawing parallels to the Taj Mahal. The museum houses seals, terracotta sculptures, ornaments, swords, and more from various kingdoms between the first and seventh centuries.

Kalpana Chawla Memorial Planetarium

Dedicated to Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian woman in space, this Planetarium is a commemorative space featuring three main sections: a planetarium, a gallery, and an Astropark. Within the Astropark, visitors can explore a miniature version of Jantar Mantar and enjoy entertaining rides that elucidate concepts like lunar eclipse, angular momentum, laws of Kepler, optical tree, world time, and more.

Kurukshetra, the land where the timeless Mahabharata unfolded, is not merely a geographical location but a tapestry of religious and heritage sites that encapsulate the soul of ancient India. From the sacred waters of Brahma Sarovar to the enlightening discourse at Jyotisar, every site carries a profound story etched in the annals of mythology. As pilgrims, historians, and curious souls traverse through these hallowed grounds, Kurukshetra continues to weave a narrative that transcends time, inviting all to explore its spiritual and historical legacy.