Govind Dev Ji Mandir

Located in Vrindavan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, the city of Lord Krishna, is the Govind Dev Ji Mandir, also known as Radha Govind Dev Mandir. This Vaishnavite temple is dedicated to the divine form of Lord Krishna as Govind Dev Ji and is counted among Vrindavan's ancient temples.

Raja Man Singh commissioned the temple's construction in 1590, with supervision entrusted to Guru Shri Kalyandas Ji, a revered Krishna devotee. Raja Man Singh entirely funded the project. The initial structure boasted seven stories, and a massive lamp adorned its highest point. This lamp's immense size necessitated over 50 kilograms of ghee to light it daily, and its glow was visible for kilometers. The sight of this flame sparked envy in the heart of Aurangzeb, who desired to destroy the temple's beauty. He dispatched his army to demolish the temple, making numerous attempts. The temple remained in ruins until 1873. However, after Aurangzeb's reign, the temple was reconstructed.

The Govind Dev Ji Mandir's architectural style is distinct from other temples. Originally, it was a seven-story building with magnificent pillars leading to the garbhagriha (inner sanctum). The temple's craftsmanship is truly remarkable.

Legend has it that after the temple's destruction by Aurangzeb, devotees feared visiting the ruins, and it became a haven for spirits and ghosts. However, these spirits are said to have never caused harm. Reconstruction of the temple with its former grandeur proved to be an incredibly difficult task, and even the resident spirits are believed to have played a role in the process. The temple's craftsmanship was so intricate that it was believed no human could recreate it in less than five to ten years.

Laddu, makhan (butter), and mishri are offered as prasad (sacred food) at Govind Dev Ji Mandir.