Udupi Sri Krishna Math is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in South India, located in Udupi, Karnataka. The temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Sri Krishna, worshipped in the form of a child (Bal Krishna).
Historical Significance of Udupi Sri Krishna Math
❀ The temple was established in the 13th century by the great Vaishnava saint Sri Madhvacharya, the founder of the Dwaita Vedanta philosophy.
❀ The Udupi Krishna Matha does not have a permanent mathadhis; the temple is managed by eight (ashta) mathas founded by Madhvacharya. The headman is decided on a two-year rotation system called the Paryaya.
❀ The idol of Bhagwan Krishna is believed to have been discovered by Madhvacharya inside a lump of gopi chandan (sacred clay) from a ship that arrived at Malpe port.
❀ The 'Navagraha Kitiki' (also known as 'Kanaka Kana Kindi') located in the temple is a silver-plated window with nine holes through which devotees view the west-facing idol of Bhagwan Krishna.
❀ Legend has it that when Saint Kanakadasa was not allowed entry into the temple due to his lower caste, he started worshipping sitting behind the temple. Pleased with his devotion, the Bhagwan turned the idol around and created a crack/window in the back wall so that he could have darshan.
❀ The Madhva Sarovara (temple tank) is located near the complex and is used for ritual purposes.
❀ According to Bhaktibharat, the monastery is famous for its Anna Prasad Seva, where free food is served to devotees every day.
❀ Udupi cuisine, known for its pure vegetarian dishes, originated from temple traditions.
❀ The temple is managed by eight monasteries (Ashta Mathas) founded by Madhvacharya.
❀ The administration rotates every two years in a grand ceremony known as Paryaya Festival.
❀ Devotees take darshan through the small window called Kanakana Kindi, associated with the saint Kanakadasa. It is believed that Bhagwan Krishna turned to face west to bless him.
❀ Udupi Sri Krishna Math reflects the traditional temple architecture of coastal Karnataka, influenced by Dravidian style with strong wooden and Kerala-style elements suited to heavy monsoon climate.
Udupi Sri Krishna Math Darshan Timing
Udupi Sri Krishna Math is open for the whole day for darshan. Generally, from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM is the darshan timing. Special sevas and poojas are performed throughout the day.
Udupi Sri Krishna Math Prime Festivals
At Udupi Sri Krishna Math Krishna Janmashtami – Celebrated with grand devotion and cultural programs. Makara Sankranti, Rathotsava and Paryaya Mahotsava – Held once every two years are the prime festivals at Udupi Sri Krishna Math.
How to Reach Udupi Sri Krishna Math
Temple is very well-connected by road from Mangalore, Bangalore, and other major cities. The nearest railway Station is Udupi Railway Station. Mangalore International Airport is just 60 KM away.
Spiritual Importance of Udupi Sri Krishna Math
As per Bhaktibharat, Udupi Sri Krishna Math is a major center of Bhakti (devotion) and Vedantic learning. The serene environment, disciplined rituals, and continuous chanting of Bhagwan Krishna’s name create a deeply divine atmosphere.
4:30 AM - 9:30 PM
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