Khatu Shyam Ji: History, Legend, Temple, Aarti, Festivals & Devotee Guide

May 1, 2025| May 1, 2025 7 min read

Khatu Shyam Ji is a revered Hindu deity worshipped primarily in Rajasthan and across North India. Believed to be the manifestation of Barbarika, the grandson of Bhima (from Mahabharata), Khatu Shyam is known as the God of Kaliyuga who listens to his devotees’ prayers instantly. Millions of pilgrims visit the Khatu Shyam Ji Temple in Khatushyamji town, Sikar district, Rajasthan, each year seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and success.

In this comprehensive article, we explore everything about Khatu Shyam Ji, from his mythological origin to rituals, temple significance, and how to reach his shrine.

🕉️ Who Is Khatu Shyam Ji?

Khatu Shyam Ji is the Kali Yuga avatar of Barbarika, the valiant grandson of Bhima and son of Ghatotkacha and Princess Maurvi. Barbarika was a mighty warrior who had received the boon of invincibility in war through three magical arrows.

Before the Mahabharata war began, Lord Krishna disguised himself and tested Barbarika’s resolve. Realizing that Barbarika’s commitment to fight for the weaker side would lead to the destruction of all, Krishna asked for his head as daan (sacrifice). Without hesitation, Barbarika offered his head, earning the boon that he would be worshipped as Shyam (a name for Krishna) in the Kaliyuga.

Hence, Barbarika became Khatu Shyam, a symbol of supreme sacrifice, devotion, and unconditional surrender to divine will.

📜 Mythological Significance

Name Origin: The name Shyam was given by Lord Krishna himself. It is one of Krishna’s own names and symbolizes the bond between them.
Three Arrows (Teen Baan): Barbarika was blessed with three arrows that could destroy any enemy or entire army. Hence, he’s also called Teen Baan Dhaari.
Sacrifice: His willing offering of his head is celebrated as the highest form of bhakti (devotion).
Kalyug Ke Devta: It is believed that Khatu Shyam listens to prayers more quickly than any other deity in the Kalyuga.

Khatu Shyam Ji Temple (Sikar, Rajasthan)

📍 Location:

Khatu town, Sikar district, Rajasthan, India (approx. 80 km from Jaipur)

🏛️ Historical Background:

The temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century AD and later reconstructed in 1720 AD by Rao Rup Singh Chauhan with marble. The temple houses the Shyam Baba’s head, which was found in the village of Khatu and established in this shrine.

✨ Architecture:

The temple is constructed using Makrana marble and features intricate silver doors, gold-plated sanctum, and stunning Rajasthani-style architecture.
The sanctum contains the Shree Shyam Baba idol, decorated daily with flowers, turbans, and jewels.

Aarti and Darshan Timings

Daily Aarti Schedule:

Mangala Aarti: 4:30 AM (Summer), 5:30 AM (Winter)
Bhog Aarti: 12:30 PM
Sandhya Aarti: 6:30 PM (Winter), 7:30 PM (Summer)
Shayan Aarti: 10:00 PM

Darshan Timings:

Open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM
On Ekadashi and during the Phalguna Mela, the temple remains open 24 hours to accommodate lakhs of devotees.

Festivals Celebrated

1. Phalguna Mela (फाल्गुन मेला)

Most famous annual fair, held during February-March (Falgun Shukla Ekadashi to Dwadashi).
Lakhs of devotees walk barefoot from across India to seek darshan.
Special bhajans, Rath Yatra, and Langar Seva (free food service) are organized.

2. Janmashtami & Gyaras

Celebrated with great fervor.
Shyam Bhakts gather for Jagran, Kirtans, and Bhajan Sandhya.

3. Ekadashi

Each Shukla Paksha Ekadashi is considered auspicious.
Special puja and darshan arrangements are made.

Rituals and Offerings

Devotees offer gulal, chunri, coconut, bhog (chana and halwa), and prasad.
Many tie threads on temple walls or write their wishes.
Teen Baan and Mor Pankh are symbolic offerings.

Titles and Names of Khatu Shyam Ji

Khatu Shyam Ji is known by several titles:

Teen Baan Dhaari (Holder of three arrows)
Haare Ka Sahara (Support for the defeated)
Lakhdata (Bestower of wealth)
Sheesh Ka Daani (Donor of his head)
Barbarik (his original name)
Shyam Baba (affectionate name by devotees)

📍 How to Reach Khatu Shyam Ji Temple

🚆 By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: Ringas Junction (RGS) – 17 km
Well-connected to Jaipur, Delhi, Bikaner, and other major cities.

🚌 By Road:

Regular buses from Jaipur (80 km), Sikar, Delhi, Ajmer, and nearby towns.

✈️ By Air:

Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport – approx. 95 km
From Jaipur, taxis or buses are easily available to Khatu town.

🏨 Accommodation Options

Khatu town has many dharamshalas, guesthouses, and budget hotels.

Shri Shyam Mandir Trust also runs free and paid lodging facilities.
During fairs, temporary camps and langar halls are set up for devotees.

🎼 Bhajans and Devotional Songs

Khatu Shyam Bhakti is popularized through Shyam Bhajans by singers like:

Narendra Chanchal
Anup Jalota
Lakhbir Singh Lakha
Raju Punjabi
Kumar Vishu

These bhajans are sung during Jagran, Shyam Mahotsav, and in personal worship.

🧿 Beliefs and Miracles

Devotees believe Khatu Shyam listens instantly and fulfills heartfelt wishes.
Known to protect devotees from harm, disease, and failure.
Many recount miraculous healings, job offers, and family blessings after visiting Khatu Dham.