On the auspicious day of Govind Dwadashi, 21st March, devotees across India celebrate the divine leelas of Khatu Shyamji, an incarnation of Lord Krishna. This sacred occasion holds immense spiritual significance, weaving together devotion, mythology, and timeless wisdom. Let us immerse ourselves in the Pauranik Katha (mythological story) of Khatu Shyamji and understand why this day is considered so special in Hindu tradition.
The Divine Significance of Govind Dwadashi
Govind Dwadashi falls on the twelfth day (Dwadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Phalguna. This day is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is also known as Govind – the protector of cows and the universe. Key aspects of this sacred day include:
- Special prayers and bhajans dedicated to Lord Krishna
- Observing fasts for spiritual purification
- Reading or listening to the divine stories of Krishna’s leelas
- Visiting temples, especially those dedicated to Khatu Shyamji
The Legend of Khatu Shyamji: A Divine Manifestation
The story of Khatu Shyamji originates from the great epic Mahabharata, where he appears as Barbarik, the grandson of Bhima and son of Ghatotkacha.
Barbarik’s Unparalleled Prowess
Born with extraordinary powers, Barbarik had received three infallible arrows from Lord Shiva himself:
- The first arrow could mark all targets to be destroyed
- The second arrow could mark all that needed protection
- The third arrow would destroy all marked targets
With these divine weapons, Barbarik had pledged to support the weaker side in the Kurukshetra war, which worried Lord Krishna.
Krishna’s Divine Test
Disguised as a Brahmin, Lord Krishna tested Barbarik’s skills by asking him to pierce all the leaves of a peepal tree with one arrow. When Barbarik successfully did so, Krishna held one leaf under his foot, which Barbarik promptly pierced by aiming at Krishna’s foot – proving his divine skill.
Impressed yet concerned about the war’s outcome, Krishna then asked for Barbarik’s head as dakshina (offering), to which the devoted warrior immediately agreed.
The Boon of Khatu Shyamji
Touched by this supreme sacrifice, Lord Krishna granted Barbarik three boons:
- His head would remain alive to witness the entire Mahabharata war
- He would be worshipped as Shyam in Kaliyuga
- Devotees who remember him with true devotion would have their wishes fulfilled
This is how Barbarik became Khatu Shyamji, the beloved deity worshipped across Rajasthan and North India.
Govind Dwadashi Celebrations at Khatu Shyamji Temple
The Khatu Shyamji Temple in Rajasthan becomes the center of grand celebrations on Govind Dwadashi. Devotees throng the temple to seek blessings and witness special rituals:
Special Rituals and Traditions
- Mangala Aarti: Pre-dawn worship with lamps and devotional songs
- Shringar: Beautiful adornment of the deity with flowers and ornaments
- Bhog: Offering of sacred food to the Lord
- Evening Aarti: Grand ceremony with lamps and devotional fervor
Devotional Practices for Govind Dwadashi
Devotees observing this sacred day typically follow these practices:
- Waking up early and taking a purifying bath
- Observing a fast until evening (Nirjala or Phalahar)
- Chanting the “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” mantra
- Reading or listening to the Bhagavad Gita
- Offering tulsi leaves and milk to Lord Krishna
The Spiritual Message of Khatu Shyamji’s Story
The legend of Khatu Shyamji carries profound spiritual lessons for devotees:
Lessons in Devotion and Sacrifice
- The power of unconditional surrender to the Divine
- True devotion means being ready to sacrifice everything for God
- God always protects those who sincerely seek Him
- Divine justice ensures that no good deed goes unrewarded
Relevance in Modern Life
In today’s stressful world, the story reminds us:
- To maintain faith during difficult times
- That true strength comes from spiritual connection
- The importance of keeping one’s word
- That divine grace is always available to sincere seekers
Embracing the Divine Grace on Govind Dwadashi
As we celebrate Govind Dwadashi on 21st March and honor Khatu Shyamji, let us imbibe the timeless lessons from this sacred Pauranik Katha. May the divine blessings of Lord Krishna, manifested as Khatu Shyamji, fill our lives with peace, prosperity and spiritual growth. By observing this day with devotion and understanding its deeper significance, we open ourselves to receive the boundless grace that flows from these ancient traditions.
Shri Shyam Bhakton Ki Jai! Hare Krishna!