Hamirpur(Himachal Pradesh): Considered to be a land of gods and goddesses, Murli Manohar Temple in Himachal Pradesh is known for its uniqueness. Consecrated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha, Kanha holds the flute in the opposite direction in this temple. Present in Sujanpur Tehra in the city of Maharaja Sansar Chand, Murli Manohar Temple was built by King Sansar Chand 400 years ago.
Placed on the banks of Beas river, walls of this temple are ornamented with murals of Lord Krishna, Radha and gopis (Krishna’s women companions in Vrindavan). It is believed that Kanha is present in actual form in this temple where Holi- a festival of colours commences by applying gulal to Lord Krishna and Radha. Thousands of devotees pay obeisance in this temple and receive the blessings of Lord Krishna.
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According to the mythological belief, Maharaja Sansar Chand refused to install the idol of Lord Krishna. Instead, the king asked for the proof of the Kanha from the priests within a day and if they fail to do so, they would be punished. Hearing this, the priests were deeply tensed and were struggling to find a solution for the problem. But it is said that the very next day, everyone was stunned by the miracle of Lord Krishna.
The priests along the king were utterly surprised when the next morning, they found Lord Krishna's flute turned in the other direction. Seeing the miracle, the king agreed to install the idol of Lord Krishna. Also known as the 'Lakh Takia Temple', the carvings inside the temple is reminiscent of the skill of the artists of that period. It is said that Maharaja Sansar Chand had donated one lakh rupees for this temple.
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