Brindawan (Vrindawan) signifies the sacred forest, the forest of Brinda where Lord Krishna sported. It is six miles above Muttra on the same side of the river Jumna (Yamuna). It is regarded as one of the holiest towns of the Hindus. It contains a large number of temples. It is connected with Muttra by a branch railway. Lord Krishna did his Bala-ilas here. Brindawan is the scene of Lord Krishna’s child life, his sport among the cowherds, his marvellous music with his flute, his various miracles.
The most famous of the present temples of Brindawan is the Govinda Deva Mandir, erected about 1590 A.D. by Raja Man Singh of Amber. Another important temple is the Ranganath Mandir. It is in South Indian Style. The temple authorities conduct a car festival.
Other important temples are Gopinath Mandir, Madan Mohan Mandir, Banki Bihari Mandir, Seva Kunj Mandir, Shahji Mandir, built in Muslim style, and Radha Mohan Mandir, built by the followers of Lord Gouranga.
There is a Siva temple also in Brindawan, known as Gopeshwar Mahadev. Lord Siva came to witness the Raslila by assuming the form of a Gopi. Lord Krishna recognized Him and adored Him as Gopeshwar or the Lord of the Gopis. It is said that no Hindu should leave Brindawan without worshipping Gopeshwar.
A big Jhoola Utsav or swinging festival is held in the month of Sravan. Pilgrims from all parts of India visit Brindavan.
