Bharat Mandir Rishikesh: A Journey to Kaliyuga

The Shri Bharat Mandir Rishikesh is situated in the heart of the city and is the most ancient and famous temple in Rishikesh. Its history is rich and describes the glory of this ancient temple. Kedar Khand (vide chapters 115 to 120) is a great resource for learning about the temple’s history.

In the seventeenth Manavavtar, Lord Vishnu was pleased by the hard penance of Raibhya Rishi and said “I will reside here forever as Hrishikesh Narayan and this place will be known as Hrishikesh.” Those who worshiped Lord Vishnu as Varah in Satyug, Parashuram in Treta Yug, Vaman in Dwapar, and Bharat in Kaliyug are certainly entitled to liberation.

Basant Pancahmi Festival

On the auspicious day of Basant Panchami, Adi Shankaracharya reinstalled the idol of Lord Hrishikesh Bharatji in the temple during the first decade of the ninth century.

Every year on Basant Panchmi, there is a symbolic reinstallation in the temple. On this occasion, the Shaligram is taken to Mayakund for a holy bath and then a grand procession is organized to take the idol back to the temple.

From Mahabharata

The Bharat Temple is mentioned in many Hindu sacred texts and epics, such as the Mahabharat, Vishnu Puran, Shrimadbhagwat, Vaman Puran, and Narsingh Puran. Legends believe that if one takes 108 rounds of Lord Shri Hrishikesh on the day of Akshaya Tritiya and seeks the blessing at Lord’s uncovered feet, then all wishes will be fulfilled. This ritual is seen as being equivalent to the holy pilgrimage of Badrinath Dham, as on Akshaya Tritiya lord’s feet are only uncovered.

Legends Behind

It is believed that the Pandavas, after the Mahabharat, stopped at this place on their way to heaven and worshipped Lord Hrishikesh Narayan. Many believe that during the reign of Ashoka, this temple and others in the region were converted into Buddha monasteries. Lord Buddha is also said to have visited this temple. A piece of a statue found during excavations is believed to be of Lord Buddha. This piece can still be found under the old Banyan tree.

Tree Inside

Bharat Mandir is also known for its age-old entangled trees, which have great significance in Hindu mythology. These trees are Vat Vriksh, Pipal, and Bail trees, and many believe that they signify Tridev – Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. These trees are believed to be more than 250 years old.

Museum Inside

The newly built Bharat Mandir Museum is attracting many historians and archaeologists who are interested in viewing the sculptures, pottery, and decorated bricks on display. These artifacts were all found during excavation efforts and provide valuable insight into the history of this area.

How To Reach

To reach Bharat Mandir, visitors can take a rickshaw or walk from the Rishikesh bus stand. The temple is open to visitors from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM every day, and there is no entry fee.