Popular Temple
Shri Khatu Shyam Ji Temple
Khatu, Sikar district, Rajasthan
Known as 'Hare ka Sahara' (support of the defeated) — Falgun Mela draws millions of devotees
At a glance
- Location
- Khatu, Sikar district, Rajasthan
- Presiding deity
- Baba Khatu Shyam (Barbarik, blessed by Krishna)
- Temple type
- Popular Temple
- Tradition
- Vaishnava
- Nearest railway station
- Ringas Junction (~17-18 km)
- Nearest airport
- Jaipur International Airport (~80 km)
- Best time to visit
- October to March; the Falgun Mela (around Holi) is the main annual festival.
History
Khatu Shyam Ji temple is dedicated to Barbarik, a Mahabharata figure — grandson of Bhima and son of Ghatotkacha. Legend holds that Barbarik offered his own head in sacrifice before the Kurukshetra war; pleased by this devotion, Krishna granted him the boon of being worshipped as "Shyam" in the Kali Yuga. The temple's idol (head) is said to have been discovered in a well in Khatu village.
Spiritual significance
Baba Shyam is also known as "Hare ka Sahara" (support of the defeated) and "Teen Baan Dhari." The annual Falgun Mela (around Holi) draws millions of devotees.
Plan your visit
Darshan timings
4:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with extended hours and special arrangements during the Falgun Mela.
Timings change on festivals and special occasions. Confirm with the temple's official source before you travel.
Ringas Junction lies on the Jaipur-Delhi line; from there, Khatu is roughly a 25-30 minute taxi or bus ride away.
Continue your Krishna bhakti
Devotional texts for this deity, already on the site.