Whenever Lord Vishnu incarnates on earth, so does his consort Laksmi. When the Lord descended on earth as Lord Ram, Goddess Lakshmi incarnated as Sita. The Rukmini Devi temple in Dwarka, Gujarat, India is dedicated to Rukmini, an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi who is considered as the consort of Lord Krishna during the Krishnavtar. Popular legends generally associate Krishna with Radha, but it was Rukmini who was his, “Patrani”, or Chief Queen. Read on to know all about the Rukmini Devi Temple, its architecture, myths and legends of the Rukmini Devi Temple, and much more.
Table of Contents
Rukmini Devi Temple Dwarka | Legend of Rishi Durvasa | Rukmini Devi Temple – History
The ancient Rukmini Devi Temple in Dwarka stands in solitary splendor some 2 kilometers away from the heart of Dwarka. Why is Krishna’s beloved wife away from him? You may wonder? Rukmini Devi Temple Dwarka history is very interesting. The temple to Rukmini has a legend behind it that is associated with Saint Durvasa who is famously known for his legendary anger.
Legend has it that once Krishna and Rukmini went to invite the sage Durvasa to their abode for dinner. The sage agreed to their invitation but had one condition, he wanted Krishna and Rukmini to pull the chariot which would take him to their palace. Both Krishna and Rukmini readily agreed to the sage’s condition.
So it was that Krishna and Rukmini tethered themselves to the chariot on which sat the venerated sage Durvasa and started pulling it. It was a tiresome task and more so for the queen, she soon felt tired and was assailed with severe thirst. She needed water to quench her thirst which had become unbearable. She beseeched Krishna who was by her side for water.
Krishna used his divine powers and with his toe made an indentation on the ground and out sprang the waters of the Ganga. Rukmini driven by thirst partook of the holy water and quenched her thirst. All this was observed by the sage Durvasa who turned crimson with rage. How dare did Rukmini drink water without even offering it to him, who was their guest? Seething with anger the sage cursed Rukmini, saying that she would live separated from her husband at that very spot.
It is believed that the Rukmini Devi temple stands in that very spot. The Rukmini Devi temple near Dwarka stands as a silent testimony to the retribution of Sage Durvasa, the idol of Rukmini Devi in the Sanctum Sanctorum stands alone, devoid of the company of her beloved Krishna.
Rukmini Devi Temple in Dwarka, Gujarat – About The Temple | Rukshamanee Mandir, Dwarka
The Rukmini Devi temple in Dwarka is one of the rare temples dedicated to the incarnation of Lakshmi, Rukmini. The temple which is located a little distance from Dwarka stands in a vast open space. There is a belief that the journey of Dwarka is incomplete if Rukshamanee Mandir is not visited.
Though local legend has it that the temple is over 2500 years old, historical evidence points to the fact that the Rukmini temple dates back to the 12th century.
A unique aspect of the Rukmini Devi temple is the significance associated with water. Water is the main Prasad that is offered to visitors after it is offered to the Goddess. The donation of drinking water in the Rukmini temple is considered very sacred. Visitors can donate towards drinking water to the best of their ability.
The importance of water at the Rukmini Devi temple is connected to the curse of the sage Durvasa. Owing to the power of the curse, the region of Dwarka and its vicinity has remained infertile and arid from time immemorial There is no fresh water source in the vicinity of Dwarka, the water around Dwwarka is salty and not cultivable, and this is the reason why the donation of freshwater is so important at the Rukmini Devi temple.
Rukmini Devi Temple in Dwarka – Rukmini’s Love Letter To Krishna
The romance of Krishna and Rukmini is one of the most thrilling episodes in Krishnavatara and has been beautifully described in the second volume of Dr. K.M. Munshi’s Krishnavatara – The Wrath of An Emperor. The eternal romance of Krishna and Rukmini and the circumstance that led to their marriage have captured the imagination of poets, painters, storytellers, and others over centuries.
The love letter of Rukmini is also mentioned in Chapter 52 of Canto 10 of Srimad Bhagavata Purana, the letter was delivered and recited to Krishna by a Brahmin named Sunanda. The letter expresses Rukmini’s love for Krishna and urges him to take her away. Rukmi brother of Rukmini who hates Krishna has connived with her father to get her married to Sishupala and she urges Krishna to abduct her from a temple where she will be going a few days before the marriage.
This love letter of Rukmini is one of the beautiful jewels in the story of Krishna. So much so that even today in the Dwarkadhish Temple the letter is read at the time of the Shayan Aarti when the Lord is put to sleep. Letter Reading is one of the important rituals of the Dwarkadhish temple.
O beauty of the worlds, having heard of Your qualities, which enter the ears of those who hear and remove their bodily distress, and having also heard of Your beauty, which fulfills all the visual desires of those who see, I have fixed my shameless mind upon You, O Kṛṣṇa.
– Excerpt of Rukmini’s Letter To Krishna
Rukmini Devi Temple Devbhoomi Dwarka – Main Festivals & Events
Krishna – Rukmini Vivah
The sacred temple dedicated to Rukmini witnesses many special events and rituals. Chief among these are the Krishna-Rukmini Vivah/Wedding, which is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. A procession is taken from the Dwarkadhish temple to the Rukmini temple.
This festival is also known as Rukmini Haran and is celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of the Jyeshta month of the Hindu calendar. The festival coincides with Ekadashi and usually occurs in the month of May or June.
Rukmini Ashtami
Rukmini Ashtami (रुक्मिणी अष्टमी) or Rukmini Jayanti is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Goddess Rukmini Devi. It is believed that Rukmini was born in the Paush month on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha ( पौष मास के कृष्ण पक्ष की अष्टमी के दिन). This day usually falls in the months of December or January as per the Gregorian calendar. The day is celebrated with the worship of the goddess and fasting as well as charity and donations to the needy.
Rukmini Temple Dwarka Timings | Rukmini Devi Temple, Dwarka Timings | Rukmini Temple Dwarka Timings
The temple is open on all days between 6.00 AM to 9.30 PM.
Queen Of Dwarka – Rukmini Temple – Architecture
The temple of Rukmini in Dwarka has a simple but enchanting architectural structure that is embellished with beautiful carvings. The basic architectural style has the elements of the Nagara style of architecture which is common in temples across western and northern India.
The temple stands on a raised platform, Jagati, which has an open Pradakshina Patha for the circumambulation of the temple. The Garbagriha or Sanctum of the temple is made up of 4-storeys that consist of smaller composite Shikharas called Urushringas. The outer walls of the temple have beautiful carvings that consist of human forms called Naratharas and elephants called Gajatharas. There are niches on the walls that have images of Vishnu.
One of the unique aspects of the architecture of the temple is that though the Shikhara has a classic design as per the Nagara style of architecture, the mandapa has a unique domed roof and also has square latticed windows, this is a feature that stands out as it does not adhere to the normal Nagara style of architecture.
Legends of Rukmini Devi – Queen of Dwarka | Story Of Rukmini | Rukmini Devi Temple in Dwarka, Gujarat – Legend
As you stand in front of the beautiful image of the queen of Dwarka at the Rukmini Devi temple in Dwarka, the many stories and legends associated with her come flooding to the mind. Rukmini and Radha are indeed the favourite soul mates of Lord Krishna, however popular mythology is replete with the stories of Radha while not everyone knows about Rukmini’s life. When you dive deep into the Rukmini Devi Temple Dwarka history, you come up with many pearls about Rukmini’s life and her love for her beloved Krishna. Here are a few interesting legends of Rukmini.
The Story of Tulabhara – Legends of Rukmini
Satyabhama the queen of Lord Krishna was very beautiful and also vain, she was the daughter of Satrajith who owned the famed Shamantaka Mani. Satyabhama was always jealous of Rukmini and wanted the attention of Krishna to herself. One day the sage Narada arrived at Dwarka and met Satyabhama, he chided her saying that Lord Krishna gave more attention to Rukmini and Satyabhama was probably losing her attractiveness. He succeeded in catalyzing the insecurity and jealousy of Satyabhama.
Sage Narada hatched a plan with Satyabhama. He asked her to tell Krishna that she had taken a vow under which she had to give Krishna to the sage. He would now be a slave of Sage Narada and the only way out of this was to give him wealth equal to Krishna’s weight. Satyabhama declared that she would give everything in her coffers for the freedom of Krishna.
So a big weighing scale was brought. Krishna sat on one side of the scale while gold, jewelry, gems, and other treasures were placed on the other. Lo and behold! all the wealth that Satyabhama could garner could not budge the scale. Sage Narada added fuel to the fire by exclaiming that Lord Krishna was his forever from now. A panic-stricken Satyabhama beseeched the other queens to chip in with their wealth, which they did gladly, but to no avail, the scale did not budge an inch and Krishna outweighed all the wealth that his queens had stacked on the scale.
It was then that Krishna with an innocent smile asked Satyabhama to seek the help of Rukmini. Satyabhama swallowed her pride and approached Rukmini for help. Rukmini picked a small Tulsi (Basil) leaf from the plant in the courtyard and placed it atop all the wealth that Satyabhama and the other queens had piled on the scale. Immediately, the scale swung and Krishna stood suspended in the air. The Tulsi leaf had miraculously swung the scales.
The Lord smiled at Satyabhama and asked her to remove all the wealth that she and the other wives had piled on the scale. Satyabhama heeded his request and did so. The wonder of wonders, the lone Tulsi leaf outweighed Krishna!
“Bhama, you gave all your wealth with a feeling of arrogance and possessiveness, that is why they could not outweigh me, while Rukmuni’s single Tulsi leaf was offered with complete faith and devotion”.
The pride of Satyabhama was destroyed at that very moment, which had been the intention of Sage Narada and the Lord, all along.
The spirit of this lovely legend is visible even today in the practice of Tulabhara that is prevalent in the Darkadhish temple. Devotees weigh themselves and donate food grains, groceries, and other items to the temple.
Pandharapur – Krishna Rukmini Temple in India – Legends of Rukmini
The famous temple of Vitthala-Rukmini in Pandharapur, Maharasthra also has a legend of Rukmini associated with it. Legend has it that once the sparks of jealousy ignited in the mind of Queen Rukmini as she thought that her Lord was spending more time with Radha and other queens. Angered and hurt she leaves the home of her Lord and wanders aimlessly and reached Dindi Vana, a forest located on the banks of the Chandrabhaga river, near present-day Pandharapur.
Krishna goes in search of Rukmini and reaches Pandharapur. There he pacifies Rukmini and they make up with each other. But like all occurrences related to Lord Krishna, there are always deeper meanings and reasons. The other reason for the entire incident is that a great devotee of Krishna, Bhakt Pundalik lived in Dindi Vana. In his earlier birth, he had been King Mukchund of the Ikshvaku dynasty. Today separate temples to Vittala, a form of Vishnu or Krishna, and Rukmini, are venerated sites in Pandharapur.
Rukmini and Draupadi’s Love For Krishna – Legends of Rukmini
There was a unique and pure relation between Krishna and Draupadi. The love between them was that of a brother and sister, of two friends. of a student for her Guru. However as Krishna always thought of Draupadi, the seeds of jealousy were sown in the minds of Krishna’s wives, Rukmini and Satyabhama.
They decided to directly confront Draupadi one day. So the two queens of Krishna meet Draupadi and ask her why Krishna loves her so much. The unfazed Draupadi answers that she loves Krishna as much as they do. However, there is a very slight difference, in their love, they think that ‘Krishna is mine, Krishna is mine,” while in her love she thinks, “I am Krishna’s, I am Krishna’s’s.
Important Krishna temples in India are Dwarka, Udupi, Shrinathji, Puri, Mathura, and Vrindavan
Other Places To See Near Rukmini Devi Temple
Dwarka has emerged as a complete tourist destination with many places of interest in Gujarat. There are many places worth visiting near Rukmini Devi temple in Dwarka. Here is a list of attractions of Dwarka that one must not miss.
- Dwarkadhish Temple
- Gomti Ghat
- Nageshvara Jyotirlinga Temple
- Beyt Dwarka
- Sudama Setu
- Shivrajpur Beach
How To Reach Rukmini Devi Temple, Dwarka?
Rukmini Devi Temple in Dwarka, Gujarat – Location
Address:
Rukmani Devi Temple રુક્મિણી દેવી મંદિર
Dwarka, Gujarat 361335
Dwarka to Rukmini Devi Temple
Dwarka to Rukmini Devi Temple Directions / Route Map
Dwarkadhish Temple to Rukmini Devi Temple
Dwarkadhish Temple to Rukmini Devi Temple Directions / Route Map
Jamnagar to Rukmini Mandir
Jamnagar to Rukmini Mandir Directions / Route Map
Rajkot to Rukmini Mandir
Rajkot to Rukmini Mandir Directions / Route Map
- The Rukmini Devi temple is situated near Dwarka in the western Indian state of Gujarat, India
- Dwarka To Rukmini temple distance is about 2 kilometers
- Rukmini Devi Temple distance from the Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka is about 3.6 kilometers
- Rukmini Temple, Dwarka distance from the Shivrajpur beach is about 11 kilometers
- Dwarka is about 226 kilometers from Rajkot and about 132 kilometers from Jamnagar
- The nearest airport to Dwarka is Jamnagar Airport at a distance of about 127 kilometers
Are you thinking of visiting the unique Rukmini Devi temple? You can book a cheap flight right here through TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline right here. if you are thinking of a road trip to Dwarka or anywhere in India check out the rental car and bus options.
Where To Stay In Dwarka
There are many options to stay at Dwarka to suit your budget and preferences. You can choose from luxurious resorts to budget hotels in Dwarka and in the vicinity. We stayed at the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Dwarka.
You can book your hotel in Dwarka through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or Agoda or Makemytrip or Priceline conveniently right here!
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You can book online tour packages for places in and around Dwarka, Gujarat right here.
Shri Rukmani Devi Mandir, Dwarka Gujarat – FAQ
Where is Rukmini Devi Temple?
The Rukmini Devi temple is in Dwarka, Gujarat, India. It is about 3.6 kilometers from Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka.
What is the best time to visit Rukmini Temple in Dwarka? Best time to visit Rukshamanee Mandir
The Rukmini Devi temple in Dwarka can be visited throughout the year. However, the summer months can be extremely hot. The best time to visit the Rukmini Devi temple would be in the winter season in the months of October, November, December, January, and February.
Why is Rukmini Temple away from the town Of Dwarka? Why is Rukmini Temple in the outskirts of the City?
This is believed to be a result of the curse of Durvasa. According to the curse Krishna and Rukmini had to be separated for a period of time.
What was the curse given by Durvasa Muni | Krishna And Rukmini Curse?
Rukmini Devi Wife of Lord Krishna was cursed by Sage Durvasa that she would be separated from her husband Krishna for 12 years.
Why do Krishna and Rukmini separate?
This was because of the curse of Sage Durvasa. As a result of the curse, they had to live separately.
How Krishna came to Dwarka?
Krishna came to Dwarka after distancing himself from the ill effects of war.
Who was Krishna’s Favourite wife?
Rukmini was an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and Krishna who was Lord Vishnu himself obviously was more attached to Rukmini.
Why Rukmini is not Worshipped?
There are a few temples like the one in Dwarka and in Pandharapur where Rukmini is worshipped in her own right.
Who killed Rukmini?
It is believed that after Krishna’s death at Bhalka Thirth. Rukmini with the other wives of Krishna left their physical bodies along with Krishna’s funeral pyre.
Is Rukmini jealous of Radha?
There are many instances where Rukmini has exhibited her jealousy of Radha.
The Rukmini Devi temple stands alone against the backdrop of the blue skies. A silent ode to the devotion and tenacity of the queen of Dwarka, the universal mother, Lakshmi herself who incarnated as Rukmini to be with her beloved Lord Vishnu who had incarnated as Krishna in the Dwapara Yuga. We hope you pay a visit to Dwarkadheesh soon.
We hope you liked our Rukmini Devi temple blog and found it interesting as well as informative. Do let us know your thoughts through the comments section and do not forget to follow us on our social media handles to stay updated with our journeys and stories.
Web stories on Dwarka can be watched here.
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Barring the curse aspect, it looks a must visit temple. It’s wonderful to see the architecture and the view. Quite a sight.
I have read about Rukmini, however did not know so much in detail. What a wonderful post it is.
Wow, I am not only mesmerized by the beauty of the temple, but also its story is divine too. I really appreciate your efforts in giving such a detailed review about the place.
I have been here, but the way you have explained and also listed the importance and significance is quite commendable. This is going to be very informative for all
Wow, the Rukmini Devi Temple is gorgeous! The temple architecture is beautiful! I’ve never seen such a detailed article about Rukmini Devi Temple. Thanks for sharing
I love the history that surrounds all these temples. The architecture amazes me to how our ancestors were so creative and smart. Thanks for listing down all these places and options for stay as well.
Great to read about all these stories and enchanting pictures. Really would love to explore all these places in this lifetime.
Amazing I did not know that there was a temple for Rukmini in Dwaraka. And it’s so interesting to read about the legend as to why Krishna and Rukmini are not in the same temple.
This blogpost is so much detailed with so many facts about Rukmini and the temples. I am amazed with the depth of research in this post. Shall save this post for my future reference.
wow..you have done so much of work in penning down these facts. I have read about Rukmini but wasn’t aware the reading their separation. The point where you mentioned “Krishna to abduct her from a temple where she will be going a few days before the marriage.” there is a temple in Amaravati, which they call as this place.
Thanks a lot for sharing such a detailed post. They’re are so many facts which i want aware about. I have up scaled my knowledge today. I have been wanting to go to dwarka for quite sometime now. Whenever I will plan to visit I will make sure to visit Rukhmani’s temple too.
The Rukmani Devi temple is alluring beauty, love this virtual tour and amazing facts. Soon will plan a visit
We had plan to visit Dwarka last year but got canceled now after reading this I pray to visit someday over there.
Knew a bit about Rukhmani but you gave detailed information and never knew that Rukhmani had a separate temple at dwarka… Thank you for sharing the detailed post.
I had stayed in Gujrat for long years but never get a chance to visit Dwarka and rukmani temple. your post was so informative and you have covered all points so well regarding rukmani temple visit and related aspects. indeed a helpful post for all future visitors.
You won’t believe only today my MIL expressed a desire to visit Dwarka in Gujarat ang here you share a fascinating temple from the place. Loved the post
Been to Dwarka , but dint know there’s a temple dedicated to Rukmini devi too. It looks so beautiful.
We have plans of visiting Dwarka as soon as it’s safe to travel. Thanks for letting us know about Rukmini temple. Will make sure to visit it too.
I love to visit places which have many stories and tell-a-tale experience, have witnessed many such maths in Udupi too. This would be a great place to be with divine aura around.
My mother is an ardent fan of such monuments and temples. I have been to Gujarat once however didn’t have the chance to visit. Saving the post and would love to visit once the travel options are open.
Good to the details and the history of the place. I am yet to visit this. Thanks for such good information about this.
Absolutely loved this place when I visited here a long time ago. The architecture is beautiful and marvellous.
Wow you have shared so many details about this temple. The stories shared are so amazing and I’ve been to Bet Dwarka in Gujarat and next time will also visit this temple wen I go to Gujarat.
Dwarka is a very well known place in Gujarat and have heard such amazing stories related to the god and godess. Loved reading this post around Rukmini Devi Temple. Would love to visit some day,.
Reading your blogposts is always insighful. I am glad you dont just show the beauty of the place but also share the huistory of significance of it so beautifully.