Khatu Shyam Ji, located in Sikar district of Rajasthan, is a center of unwavering faith for devotees. Legend holds that this is the place where Barbarik, the great warrior of the Mahabharata, offered his head to Lord Krishna and received the title of ‘Hara Ka Sahara’ (Support of the Defeated). His valor, generosity, and devotion led to his worship today as Baba Shyam. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit Khatu Dham during the month of Falgun to seek his blessings.
Establishment of Baba Khatu Shyam
The Khatu Shyam Ji temple was built in 1027 CE by Rup Singh Chauhan and his wife, Narmada Kunwar. Later, in 1720 CE, Thakur Abhay Singh, the Diwan of the Marwar ruler, had it reconstructed. The deity enshrined in the temple's sanctum sanctorum is made of a rare stone, considered highly miraculous. A fascinating story is associated with the temple's construction. Centuries ago, a cow would stand daily at this spot, and inexplicably, milk would flow from her udders.
Villagers were astonished by this sight. When the site was excavated, Baba Shyam's head was discovered. That night, the king of Khatu Nagar received a divine vision instructing him to build a temple. On Kartik Ekadashi, a magnificent temple was established at this sacred site for Baba Shyam.
Journey from the Mahabharata to Khatu Shyam
Barbarik, the valiant grandson of Bhima, the Pandava warrior, was born on Kartik Ekadashi. From childhood, he possessed divine powers and was the master of three infallible arrows. When the Mahabharata war was about to begin, he expressed his desire to participate.
Why did Krishna ask for Barbarik's head?
Disguised as a Brahmin, Krishna asked Barbarik, "Whose side will you fight on in the war?" Barbarik replied, "I will support the losing side, as I have promised my mother." Krishna realized that if Barbarik participated, he would perpetually support the losing side, prolonging the war indefinitely and hindering the establishment of Dharma. Therefore, Krishna requested Barbarik's head to ensure the war's proper conclusion.
Barbarik willingly offered his head to Krishna. Pleased, Krishna sprinkled it with amrita (nectar) and placed it on a high place, allowing Barbarik to witness the entire war. After the Pandavas' victory and subsequent arrogance, Krishna asked, "Whose victory is this?"
Barbarik's head replied, "Only Krishna's Leela (divine play) has triumphed." Thus, he humbled the Pandavas' pride.
Why is Khatu Shyam Ji called ‘Hara Ka Sahara’? After the Mahabharata war, Krishna blessed Barbarik that in Kali Yuga, he would be worshipped as ‘Shyam,’ and he would be the support of any devotee who sincerely sought his refuge. This is why Baba is called ‘Hara Ka Sahara’ (Support of the Defeated).
Separate Locations of Baba's Head and Body
• Sikar, Rajasthan – Khatu Shyam Dham: This is where Baba Shyam's idol was established and where the magnificent temple stands today.
• Chulkhana Dham, Haryana: This is where Barbarik offered his head and witnessed Krishna's Virat Swaroop (universal form).
• Syahadwa Dham, Haryana: This is where Barbarik's torso is worshipped.
Miracles of Khatu Shyam Temple
Devotees believe Baba Shyam manifests in different forms daily. Some claim to have witnessed changes in the idol's appearance. This faith and belief symbolize Baba fulfilling every devotee's wish.
How to Please Baba Shyam
If you are visiting Baba Khatu Shyam, offer him his favorite things:
• Chhappan Bhog – A variety of sweets and offerings are presented to Baba.
• Rose and Kewda Attar – Fragrant attars are highly favored by Baba.
• Peacock Feathers – Offering peacock feathers pleases Baba quickly.
Falgun Mahotsav: A Torrent of Devotion at Baba's Court
Every year, a grand fair and Mahotsav is organized in Khatu Shyam Dham on Falgun Shukla Paksha Dwadashi, the day Baba offered his head to Krishna. Lakhs of devotees from India and abroad visit Khatu on this occasion, and the temple reverberates with chants of "Jai Shri Shyam".
