The Radha Syamsundar Temple in Vrindavan is the one of seven ancient temples (Sapt devalayas), established by the esteemed Chaitanya Mahaprabhu & holds immense significance for devotees.
Vrindavan, often hailed as the city of temples, boasts countless sacred sites, each with its unique story. However, certain temples stand as cornerstones, deeply intertwined with the very identity of this holy city. The Radha Syamsundar Temple in Vrindavan is undeniably one such iconic shrine. Forklore says that Radharani herself made the Vigraha (Main statue) appear from her own heart and gave it to Sri Syamananda. Also Temple has their own website where you can see detailed schedule and donate.
History
Srila Shyamananda Prabhu, whose childhood name was Dukhi, loved Lord Krishna very much from a young age. His Guru told him to visit all the holy places in India, including Sri Vrindavan Dham. He used to stay in Seva Kunj and used to clean the holy gardens of Seva-kunj. He served there for twelve years, growing in his love for Lord Krishna.
One day, while remembering Radha and Krishna’s loving stories, he imagined Shyamsundar dancing with the gopis in the garden. He saw Srimati Radharani dancing beautifully to please Shyamsundar. During the dance, her golden anklet fell off without anyone noticing. Following the dance, Radha and Krishna went to rest.
The next morning, Dukhi Krishna Dasa went to clean the gardens. He saw signs of the joyful dancing from the night before. Then, he saw something shiny under a tree. It was a beautiful anklet with precious stones! Suddenly, a voice from the sky told him to protect the anklet. He picked it up and felt a strong wave of love for Radha. Tears came to his eyes, and he started dancing and saying Radha Rani’s names. He hid the anklet and continued cleaning.
When Radha rani came with Lalita Sakhi to get the anklet next, he wised to see her true divine for as favor for returning the anklet. With blessing of Lalita sakhi he was able to see Radha rani. Radha rani made Vigraha (statue) of Shri Radha Syamasundar appear from her heart as blessing and asked him to serve. He also received a special tilak called ‘Shyam Mohan Tilak’. After this episode he also became known as ‘Kanak Manjari’ and Shyamananda.
You can read the whole story in detail here.
Timings
Morning 3:30 am to 11:00 am, Evening 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Timings may slightly vary as per seasons.
