India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Gujarat

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 16.07.1984

Pin code: 361335

Status: Active

PO Name: Dwarka

Description: The Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Located in Dwarka, Gujarat, it is a key pilgrimage site and forms part of the Char Dham, a group of four sacred Hindu sites. The city of Dwarka is significant and is referenced in the Mahabharata as the ancient kingdom of Krishna. According to mythology, Krishna established Dwarka as his capital. Over the centuries, the ancient city of Dwarka is believed to have been submerged due to coastal erosion. The current Dwarkadhish Temple was built after the original structure was destroyed by Mahmud Begada in 1473. The present idol of Dwarkadhish was installed in 1559 by Aniruddhashram Shankaracharya. The temple is a five-storey structure made of limestone, with 72 pillars and intricate carvings. 

It has two significant gates: the Moksha Dwara (Gate of Salvation) and the Swarga Dwara (Gate of Heaven), with the latter opening to the Gomti River via 56 steps. The temple's towering spire reaches a height of 78 meters, and the triangular flag flying atop is replaced four times a day. It also holds deep religious importance, being connected to Adi Shankaracharya's Advaita school of Hinduism, and is home to one of the four cardinal monasteries he established. The temple is also closely associated with the poet-saint Meera Bai, a renowned devotee of Lord Krishna. The temple was recognized with the "Amazing Place of the World" certificate in 2021 by the World Talent Organization. The Krishna Janmashtami festival, a major celebration here, was initiated by Vallabhacharya in the late 15th century.