History, legend, significance and practical information for visiting one of Rajasthan's most beloved pilgrimage sites.
Khatu Shyam Ji is revered as Barbarika — son of Ghatotkacha and grandson of the mighty Bhima. He possessed extraordinary valour and was gifted three divine arrows by Lord Shiva, with which he could win any war single-handedly.
Before the Mahabharata war, Barbarika vowed to fight for whichever side was losing. Recognising that this could disrupt the course of dharma, Sri Krishna — disguised as a Brahmin — asked Barbarika to donate his head. Barbarika agreed with complete devotion.
Moved by Barbarika's selfless sacrifice and unshakeable devotion, Sri Krishna granted him a boon: "In the age of Kali (Kalyug), you shall be worshipped by the name Shyam. Your devotees' wishes will be fulfilled, and you shall be known as Hare ka Sahara — the support of those who have lost hope."
This is why Khatu Shyam Ji is called Hare ka Sahara — the refuge of those who have been defeated everywhere else.
According to legend, Barbarika's divine head was found in a well in the village of Khatu after a cow was seen shedding milk at that spot daily. King Rup Singh Chauhan received a divine vision directing him to build a temple at the site.
The present temple was reconstructed in the 18th century. Its architecture beautifully blends Rajput and Mughal styles. The sanctum houses the sacred divine head (shish) of Shyam Baba, before which devotees offer prayers and blue-coloured flags (dhwaja).
He fulfils the wishes of those who come with true devotion and nowhere else to turn.
Offering a blue-coloured flag at the temple is considered the highest form of devotion here.
Laddoo, chunari and flowers are commonly offered. Footwear must be removed at the temple gate.
"Khatu Naresh ki jai ho"