Dwarkadhish Temple - Lord Krishna Shringar Darshan - Dwarka - Gujarat

|| Krishna became Dwarkadhish ||

The story how Shri Krishna became famous as Dwarkadhish is very interesting and also a benchmark to the rulers. Though he was the king he ruled democratically. Jarasangha, father in law of Kansa, attacked Matura on seventeen different occasions and on each occasion under the leadership of Shri Krishna the people of Mathura bravely repulsed the attack. Krishna realized that the real strength of Jarasangha was his reliance on Hans and Dhimak who were on Jarasandha's side. So with a great deal of foresight, Shri Krishna cleverly got Hansa and Dhimak killed. This was the policy of war. Shri Krishna had to fight the large majority of people who were materialistic and evil- minded. Jarasangha was frightened after the death of Hansa and Dhimak, and his army lost confidence.

Jarasangha, with great efforts once again built up his army and invaded Mathura for the 18th time. On this occasion Vikadru, a member of the Yadav assembly spoke the bitter truth, He said,' Krishna, we have limitless love for you. We cannot compensate for your obligations on us. Yet these invasions are because of you. The civic life of Mathura is completely disrupted. Commerce and trade have been ruined. The people are not able to attend to agricultural duties and as a result the progress is hindered. And on the top of all, the danger of one more invasion of Jarasangha is hanging over Mathura. Hence in these circumstances, for the good of the people I request you to leave us. It is bitter but it is the truth. Please consider, Shri Krishna your followers are not sentimental. They cannot remain sentimental because of your teaching. Therefore, I as your devotee tell you the truth without fear. The entire assembly was stunned and silent. Shri Krishna's father Vasudev supported Vikrendu in assembly.

Shri Krishna realized that the republic had to face many dangers because of him. And decided to leave Mathura. Thus he proved that he not only advised but also lived accordingly.

He advised Yadavas,' I have taught you true culture. Live according to the ideals and impart these teachings to others. I will leave Matura and go to Dwarka, in Saurashtra.

Thereafter Shri Krishna crossed Gomantak (Girnar Mountain) went to Saurashtra, where he built Dwarka City (City of Gold) at a distance of 20 miles from Prabhas Patan.(today's Veraval Somanath). Shri Krishna appeared to have settled in Dwarka, though his mind was engaged in re-establishing a kingdom based on the principal of true religion. This was his life's goal. And he made Dwarka , the empire which is based on the principal of true religion, called Dharma Rajya in true sense.Where he become known as the ruler of Dwarka ,'Shri Dwarkadhish.'

The importance of Shri Krishna's life and teachings was not limited to his contemporary period but is equally so to the posterity. That is why his birthday is remembered and celebrated today even after five thousand years. Not only vaishnavas (followers of vishnu - ÃShri Krishna) but also all those who are interested in his philosophy celebrate his birthday with great devotion. The philosophy of his life has stood the test of time.