Dwarka is famous primarily as the legendary kingdom of Lord Krishna, one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism, and is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India[1][2][3]. According to ancient scriptures like the Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita, Skanda Purana, and Vishnu Purana, Dwarka served as the capital city of Krishna’s Yadava clan and holds a central place in Hindu mythology and spiritual tradition[1][2].
Several factors contribute to Dwarka’s fame:
- It is one of the seven most ancient religious cities (Sapta Puri) in India, and is considered a Moksha Kshetra—where devotees hope to attain liberation[2][5].
- Dwarka is renowned for the Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Krishna as the “King of Dwarka,” making it a key site in the Krishna pilgrimage circuit[2][5].
- The city has a rich historical and archaeological legacy, with findings suggesting the original temple was built over 2,000 years ago and the city itself potentially older than many ancient civilizations[1][5].
- Legend states that Krishna constructed Dwarka on land reclaimed from the sea with the help of divine powers, and after his departure, the city was submerged beneath the waves, giving rise to the enduring story of the “lost city of Dwarka.”[1][3][7][8]
- Numerous excavations along the Arabian Sea’s coast have uncovered submerged remains and artefacts—such as fortification walls and anchors—which support accounts of its past as a thriving, advanced port and trade center[7][4].
- Many significant episodes in both Krishna’s life and the Mahabharata epic take place in Dwarka, making it both a historical and a spiritual landmark[2][4].
References
- [1] Dwarka: The Mystical Tales of Krishna – Turuhi
- [2] Lord Krishna’s City – Dwarka
- [3] Dwarka Temple History: Tracing the roots of Dwarka’s Legend | SOTC
- [4] Read the grand history of Lord Krishna’s Dwarka where PM …
- [5] Dwarka – Wikipedia
- [7] Dwarka | Silk Roads Programme – UNESCO
- [8] Krishna’s Dwarka: The mysterious submersion of this lost city