Banke Bihari

Banke Bihari is the presiding deity of the renowned Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, one of the most revered Krishna temples in India. The name 'Banke Bihari' means 'the supreme enjoyer who is bent in three places,' referring to the deity's distinctive tribhanga (three-bent) posture. According to tradition, the deity is svayamvyakta (self-manifested) and was discovered by the great saint Swami Haridas in the 16th century. The iconography depicts Krishna as a young cowherd, standing with his body bent at the neck, waist, and knee, playing his enchanting flute.

The deity is carved from black stone and is adorned with a peacock feather crown, floral garlands, and rich garments. A unique feature of the temple is that the deity's eyes are covered by a curtain, which is opened and closed at specific times, as it is believed that his gaze is so powerful that it can overwhelm devotees. The Banke Bihari form emphasizes Krishna's playful and romantic aspect, especially his relationship with Radha. The Brahma Vaivarta Purana describes Krishna's pastimes in Vrindavan, where he enchants the gopis with his flute.

The Bhagavata Purana (10.21.5) recounts how the gopis were captivated by Krishna's music, leaving their household duties. The deity is considered the embodiment of the divine couple Radha and Krishna combined; it is said that Swami Haridas saw Krishna and Radha merging into one form, which became Banke Bihari. Major festivals include Janmashtami, Radhashtami, and the unique Phoolon Ki Holi, where devotees shower flowers on the deity. The temple is a center of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, and the deity is worshiped with elaborate rituals, including the famous 'Bihari Ji Ki Aarti.' Banke Bihari represents the pinnacle of divine love (prema) and is a focal point for devotees seeking the playful, intimate grace of Krishna.

Black stone deity in tribhanga (three-bent) posture, holding a flute. Eyes are covered by a curtain that is opened and closed regularly. Adorned with peacock feather crown and jewels.