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Why is Nathdwara an important Hindu religious centre?

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Map highlighting the Indian state of Rajasthan in orange, located in the northwest of India with its capital Jaipur marked. Surrounding countries including Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka are shown, along with major bodies of water such as the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. — Rajasthan Rajasthan, India.

Nathdwara is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site primarily because it houses a celebrated 17th-century Vaishnavite shrine dedicated to Krishna.1

The temple serves as the main center of devotion for the Vallabhacharya sect, enshrining the sacred image of Shri-Nathaji. According to tradition, this image depicts Krishna with one hand raised, commemorating the legend of him lifting Mount Govardhana to protect cowherds from a storm. The image was brought to Nathdwara after its chariot broke down while being transported to escape the Mughals, at which point it was granted protection by a local Rajput chief. Today, the temple is renowned for the elaborate daily worship services performed for the deity.2