Khatu Shyam: From Barbarik to the Lord of Kaliyug Devotees

Khatu Shyam Temple is located at Khatu village, just 43 kms from Sikar city in Rajasthan. This sacred shrine is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites among the young generation and old alike. Let’s delve deep into Khatu Shyam ji ki history, unravel the incredible story of Barbarik, and discover how he became the Lord of Kaliyug devotees.

Who is Khatu Naresh?
Story of Khatu Shyam ji
Why is Khatu Shyam mandir famous?
Why did Khatu Shyam cut his head and how did Barbarik become Khatu Shyam ji?
11 names of Khatu Shyam ji
Timings of Khatu Shyam mandir
Special darshan at Ekadashi
Things to do in Khatu Shyam mandir
How to reach Khatu Shyam mandir
Can we go to Khatu Shyam mandir in periods?
Khatu Shyam Falgun Mela
Famous quote of Khatu Shyam ji

Who is Khatu Naresh?

The history of Khatu Naresh, fondly known as Shri Shyam Baba, dates back to the era of the Mahabharata. His childhood name was Barbarik, given because of his thick hair resembling that of a lion. A born warrior blessed with immense strength and intelligence, Barbarik was the son of the mighty Ghatotkach and Nag Kanya Maurvi. Ghatotkacha himself was the valiant son of Bhima, the powerful mace-wielding Pandava.

Thus, Khatu Shyam ji ki history is deeply rooted in the epic saga of Mahabharata, making him a deity of valor, sacrifice, and ultimate devotion.

Story of Khatu Shyam ji

A multitude of incidents contribute to the growing reverence for Khatu Shyam ji. The temple draws devotees from across the world due to its powerful legends. He is widely regarded as a “wish-fulfilling god”, believed to bless his followers with happiness and prosperity. Additionally, countless miracles reported at the temple have taken social media by storm, establishing Khatu Shyam Baba as a divine sensation among the youth.

Why is Khatu Shyam Mandir Famous?

The temple is revered for being a divine seat of blessings, where wishes are believed to come true. Devotees throng here not just from Rajasthan but from all corners of India and abroad. The aura, the miraculous incidents, and the powerful energy of the temple have made it one of the most famous pilgrimage sites. The spiritual magnetism has especially captivated the younger generation, making it a trending destination on both social and devotional circuits.

Why did Khatu Shyam Cut His Head and How Did Barbarik Become Khatu Shyam ji?

The origin of Khatu Shyam ji ki history is linked to the great war of Mahabharata. Barbarik, a great warrior, was determined to fight on the side of the weak, which at the time was the Kaurava army. Barbarik was blessed with three invincible arrows obtained through his penance to Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga — arrows that never missed their target.

Realizing the threat Barbarik posed to the balance of the Mahabharata war, Lord Krishna approached him in disguise as a Brahmin. Krishna asked for his head in charity. True to his word and generous nature, Barbarik agreed. However, he requested to witness the battle till its end. Lord Krishna granted this boon and placed his severed head atop a hill from where Barbarik watched the entire war.

On Falgun Shukla Ekadashi, Barbarik offered his head, and the head was later enshrined in Khatu village (present-day Sikar district, Rajasthan), earning him the title Khatu Shyam Baba, the Lord of Kaliyug devotees.

11 Names of Khatu Shyam ji

Among devotees, Khatu Shyam ji is worshipped under various names:

Barbarik
Maurvi Nandan
Teen Ban Dhari
Sheesh ka Daani
Kalyug ke Avtaari
Khatu Naresh
Lakhdatar
Khatu Shyam
Hare Ka Sahara
Shree Shyam

Timings of Khatu Shyam Mandir

The temple follows a fixed darshan schedule:
4:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Aarti Timings:

Mangala Aarti (Early Morning): 4:30 AM
Shringar Aarti (Adornment): 8:00 AM
Bhog Aarti (Offering Food): 12:30 PM
Sandhya Aarti (Evening): 6:30 PM
Shayan Aarti (Night): 8:30 PM

You can also book online pooja and aarti services via official portals, allowing distant devotees to offer prayers virtually.

Special Darshan at Ekadashi

Ekadashi holds immense significance in Khatu Shyam ji ki history. On this sacred day, the temple remains open throughout the day, welcoming thousands of devotees who consider it the most auspicious time for darshan and blessings.

Things to Do in Khatu Shyam Mandir

When visiting, you should also explore nearby attractions:

Salasar Balaji
Shyam Kund
Gaurishankar Temple
Gopinath Temple
Sitaram Temple
Palace of Khatwang Raja
Khandela Darbar Ancient Palace Fountain

How to Reach Khatu Shyam Mandir

Thanks to robust road and rail connectivity, reaching Khatu Shyam Mandir is convenient. The nearest railway station is Ringas Junction (RGS), about 17 km away, with taxis and jeeps available at the station. Direct trains from Delhi and Jaipur are frequent. The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (80 km away). Major highways like NH 11 connect Jaipur, Bikaner, and Agra, making the road trip equally smooth.

Can We Go to Khatu Shyam Mandir in Periods?

Traditionally, women are advised against visiting temples during their menstrual cycle. It is believed that during menstruation, the body’s energy flows downward, while the temple’s energy flows upwards. This conflicting energy interaction might cause imbalance, hence many recommend women to avoid entering temples during this phase. However, it is a personal belief and spiritual matter.

Khatu Shyam Falgun Mela

The Falgun Mela is a grand annual fair organized on the occasion of Baba Shyam’s birthday. Held every year in the Hindu month of Falgun, this fair witnesses massive crowds, particularly on Ekadashi (Gyaras) and Dwadashi. Traditional offerings like Churma Baati are made, and the air is filled with chants of Shyam Baba’s glory.

Famous Quote of Khatu Shyam ji

A beloved saying among his devotees is:
“HARE KA SAHARA BABA SHYAM HAMARA”
This signifies unwavering faith that in every adversity, Khatu Shyam Baba extends his divine support and protection. Rightfully revered as “Kalyug ke Devta”, he remains the eternal hope of millions.

Special Update for Devotees!

If you’re unable to visit Khatu Shyam Mandir in Rajasthan, you can still seek Baba Shyam’s blessings at the beautiful Khatu Shyam Mandir Ujjain. The temple regularly organises the sacred Shyam Sarva Mangal Puja, known for fulfilling wishes and bringing peace to devotees’ lives.

Now you can book this divine puja easily through the official Utsav App — a trusted platform for online pooja bookings and darshan registrations across famous temples of India.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of Shyam Baba’s grace — Book your Shyam Sarva Mangal Puja now on the Utsav App!

FAQs

Q1. Who was Barbarik and how did he become Khatu Shyam ji?
Barbarik, son of Ghatotkacha, donated his head to Lord Krishna before the Mahabharata war. His head was enshrined in Khatu, and he’s now worshipped as Khatu Shyam ji, the savior of Kaliyug.

Q2. What is Khatu Shyam ji ki history?
His history traces back to the Mahabharata. Known for his three invincible arrows and sacrifice, Barbarik became Khatu Shyam ji after offering his head to Krishna.

Q3. Why is Khatu Shyam Mandir famous?
It’s famous for miracles, wish-fulfilling blessings, and the Falgun Mela that attracts lakhs of devotees every year.

Q4. What are Khatu Shyam Mandir’s darshan timings?
4:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM. On Ekadashi, the temple stays open all day.

Q5. Can I book an online pooja at Khatu Shyam Mandir?
Yes, devotees can book online pooja and aarti services via Utsav App to offer prayers remotely.

Q6. Can women visit Khatu Shyam Mandir during periods?
Traditionally it’s avoided due to energy flow beliefs, but it’s a personal choice.

Q7. How to reach Khatu Shyam Mandir?
Nearest railway station: Ringas Junction (17 km). Nearest airport: Jaipur International (80 km). Also accessible via NH 11.

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