The grand Khatu Shyam Ji Temple (Khatu Shyam Mandir), located in Sikar district of Rajasthan, is renowned nationwide for its faith and devotion. Devotees worship him by various names such as "Hare Ka Sahara" (Support of the Defeated), "Teen Baandhari" (Bearer of Three Arrows), and "Sheesh Ke Daani" (Donor of the Head).
Khatu Shyam Birthday 2025: The birth anniversary of Khatu Shyam Baba, a symbol of devotion, faith, and love, is being celebrated today across the country with great joy. Every year, Khatu Shyam Ji's birthday (Khatu Shyam Ji Birthday 2025) is celebrated with grandeur on the Ekadashi tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi. On this occasion, the Khatu Shyam Temple in Sikar district, Rajasthan, witnesses a massive influx of devotees.
Devotees bow their heads in Baba Shyam's court amidst the echoes of devotional songs like 'Shyam Teri Bansi Pukare Radha Naam' and pray for freedom from the troubles of their lives.
Who is Khatu Shyam Ji?
Khatu Shyam Ji's real name was Barbarik — he was the son of the valiant Ghatotkacha from the Mahabharata and the grandson of Pandava Bhima. Barbarik was renowned for his bravery and devotion to Lord Krishna. According to the legend, he donated his head to Lord Krishna, after which Krishna granted him a boon that in the Kali Yuga, he would be worshipped by the name 'Shyam' and would alleviate all the sorrows of devotees as 'Hare Ke Sahare' (Support of the Defeated). This is why he is known by names such as Teen Baandhari (Bearer of Three Arrows), Hare Ka Sahara (Support of the Defeated), and Sheesh Ke Daani (Donor of the Head).
Significance of Khatu Shyam Temple
Located in Khatu village of Sikar district, Rajasthan, this ancient temple is considered one of the prominent religious sites across the country. It is believed that after the Mahabharata war, Barbarik's head was buried beneath the ground here, which was later discovered and enshrined in the temple. The temple's architecture offers a unique glimpse into the Rajasthani style. Its marble entrances, artistic carvings, and gold-embellished spires offer visitors a wonderful experience of devotion and beauty.
Why Khatu Shyam Janmotsav is Special on Dev Uthani Ekadashi
Dev Uthani Ekadashi is considered the day Lord Vishnu awakens from his four-month yogic sleep. From this day onwards, marriages, religious rituals, and auspicious ceremonies commence. It is believed that Baba Shyam incarnated on this auspicious day to alleviate the sorrows of devotees in Kali Yuga and guide them towards the path of truth. On this day, Khatu Dham organizes special tableaux (jhankis), grand aartis, and Shri Shyam Naam Sankirtan (devotional chanting). Thousands of devotees participate in Baba Shyam's 'Janmotsav Mela' (Birthday Fair), immersing themselves in devotion.
Activities to Perform When Visiting the Temple
- Offer roses, perfume (ittar), and coconuts to Baba Shyam — these are considered his favorites.
- Offer Churma, Kheer, or sweets made from cow's milk as bhog (offering) — this is Baba's favorite prasad.
- Chant "Jai Shri Shyam" in Baba's court and resolve your heart's desires.
- Participate in Shri Shyam Ji's Aarti and Naam Sankirtan to experience spiritual peace.
- If possible, perform Deepdan (lighting lamps) in the temple complex — it symbolizes auspiciousness and prosperity.
Receive the Blessings of 'Hare Ke Sahare' Through Devotion
It is believed that any devotee who remembers Baba Shyam with a true heart has all their wishes fulfilled. No matter how many difficulties one faces in life, "Hare Ke Sahare Shyam" (Shyam, the support of the defeated) alleviates the sorrows of devotees and fills them with new enthusiasm. A mere darshan (glimpse) of Khatu Shyam Ji brings positive energy, mental peace, and spiritual contentment into a person's life. Today, Khatu Shyam temples and Bhajan Sankirtan groups are active not only in India but also in countries like the USA, UK, Dubai, and Singapore.
