Shri Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir, located in the town of Khatu in Rajasthan's Sikar district, is a principal pilgrimage site dedicated to Shyam Baba. The deity is believed to be Barbarika, the grandson of Bhima, who sacrificed his head ('sheesh') before the Mahabharata war. Lord Krishna, impressed by his sacrifice, granted him a boon to be worshipped in Kali Yuga under Krishna's own name, Shyam. The temple enshrines this sacred head and is famously known as 'Haare Ka Sahara' (The Support of the Defeated), attracting millions of devotees who believe in his unwavering support and wish-fulfillment.
Summer Schedule (Falgun Shukla 11 to Kartik Krishna 30)
Mangala Aarti. Darshan begins.
General darshan. Bhog is offered at 12:30 PM.
Temple is closed for Bhog and rest.
Temple reopens for evening darshan. Evening Aarti is at 7:30 PM.
Shayan Aarti and closing of the temple.
Winter Schedule (Kartik Shukla 11 to Falgun Shukla 7)
Mangala Aarti. Darshan begins.
General darshan. Bhog is offered at 12:30 PM.
Temple is closed for Bhog and rest.
Temple reopens for evening darshan. Evening Aarti is at 7:00 PM.
Shayan Aarti and closing of the temple.
Free Darshan (Online Registration Required)
Entry is free, but devotees must pre-register online for a specific time slot to manage crowds.
Shiva
A Shiva temple is also present within the complex
Ganesha
Worshipped at the entrance
Phalgun Mela (Lakkhi Mela)
The main annual festival, a 10-12 day fair held before Holi. Millions of devotees, many of whom walk hundreds of kilometers barefoot (padayatra), arrive to offer 'Nishan' (holy flags).