Introduction

Adjacent to Arjuna’s Penance is another early rock-cut temple. This one is dedicated to Lord Krishna and depicts scenes of pastoral life. It is considered the biggest among the mandapams. Most prominently portrayed is the image of Krishna holding aloft the Govardhan Hill on his fingertip to provide shelter to the villagers of Gokulam and their animals from a raging storm. You will also see depictions of a shepherd milking a cow, a farmer carrying a child on his shoulder, a shepherdess carrying a pot of curd and a woman carrying on her head a rolled mat, and in her hand a tier of earthen pots, and a young couple in love among other vivid portrayals.

Hindu mythology has it that an angry Lord Indra, the rain god, made it pour incessantly over this little shepherd hamlet. This community of gokulas (shepherds) thanked Lord Indra once a year for the rain showers that kept the pastures green. But Lord Krishna intervened and persuaded the villagers to relinquish this practice, as it was their hard work that brought them material wealth and not Lord Indra. This infuriated Lord Indra and he ordered the rain clouds to pour down hard on the village and deluge it. Subsequently, the locals sought Lord Krishna’s help who in turn protected them and their cattle by lifting the mountain with his little finger, while the torrential rain continued for several days. At last an embarrassed Lord Indra gave in, considering the benevolent and brave act of little Krishna.

The shape of a huge whale, Krishna Mandapam’s bas relief is about 9-meter tall and 27-meter wide, depicting a chronology of events from the life of Lord Krishna. Look up the intricate sculptures of celestial beings, men, beasts and birds that complete the pastoral scenery, and add an artistic touch to it.

Special Attributes

Fine depiction of pastoral life and the events in the life of Lord Krishna.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can walk up to the mandapam.

Enjoyed by

History Lovers, Sculpture and Architecture Lovers, and those who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will mostly be indoors.

Avoidable Season

March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October

Facilities

You can further on proceed to Arjuna's Penance.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Do not touch the reliefs adorning the walls of the cave.

Type of site

Lord Krishna shrine