Khatu Shyam Ji's birth anniversary: Who was the Barbarika, later known as Khatu Shyam, and what is his connection to the Mahabharata?

Khatu Shyam Ji’s birthday is celebrated every year with great devotion on Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. This auspicious occasion coincides with the observance of the Dev Uthani Ekadashi fast, an important day in the Hindu calendar. This year, the celebration falls on 12th November 2024, drawing devotees from all over the world to pay homage to Khatu Shyam Ji.

Who Was Khatu Shyam Ji?

Khatu Shyam Ji, also referred to as Shyam Baba, is considered?Kaliyugi incarnation of Lord Krishna?in Hinduism, reported in Times Now. His story is deeply connected to the Mahabharata, as he is the rebirth of Barbarika, the brave son of Ghatotkacha and grandson of Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers. Even as a child, Barbarika was known for his bravery and exceptional warrior skills, which he learned from his mother.

The Legend of Barbarika and His Divine Arrows

Barbarika was no ordinary warrior. Pleased with his dedication to warfare, Lord Shiva gifted him three invincible arrows, and Agni, the god of fire, blessed him with a divine bow. These powerful weapons made him an unstoppable force in battle.

When Barbarika learned about the great war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, he decided to join the side that was losing. Keeping his promise to his mother, Barbarika set out on his blue horse, armed with his mystical arrows and bow.

The Encounter Between Barbarika and Lord Krishna

As Barbarika journeyed to the battlefield, Lord Krishna, disguised as a Brahmin, stopped him to test his strength. Krishna teased Barbarika about carrying only three arrows to the epic war. Barbarika explained the unique power of his arrows:

• The first arrow would mark all the targets to be destroyed.
• The second arrow would mark everything to be spared.
• The third arrow would eliminate everything marked for destruction.

To test this, Krishna challenged Barbarika to tie all the leaves of a nearby peepal tree using his arrows. While Barbarika meditated to release his arrow, Krishna secretly hid one leaf under his foot. However, when Barbarika’s first arrow was released, it marked all the leaves, including the hidden one. Krishna, impressed and astonished, lifted his foot to reveal the hidden leaf, proving the infallibility of Barbarika’s arrows.

The Ultimate Sacrifice of Barbarika

Krishna, recognising the unparalleled strength of Barbarika, realised that his participation in the war could disrupt the balance. Krishna revealed his true identity and requested Barbarika’s head as a charity, explaining that the sacrifice of the bravest warrior was needed for the battle's success. Without hesitation, Barbarika obeyed Krishna’s divine command and offered his head.

The Boon of Khatu Shyam Ji

Before sacrificing his head, Barbarika sought a boon from Krishna. He wished to be worshipped in the Kaliyuga by Krishna’s name, Shyam, and that his devotees’ prayers be fulfilled. Krishna granted this boon and promised that Barbarika’s name would bless his followers with prosperity and happiness.

Witnessing the Mahabharata War

Barbarika’s severed head was placed atop a hill overlooking the Kurukshetra battlefield, allowing him to witness the entire war. After the Pandavas’ victory, Krishna asked Barbarika’s head to judge who was responsible for their success. Barbarika declared that it was Krishna’s strategy, guidance, and divine intervention that led to their triumph.

The Khatu Shyam Ji Temple and Its Significance

Years after the Mahabharata, Barbarika’s head was retrieved from a holy pond near the present-day Khatu Shyam Ji temple in Rajasthan. This temple is now a major pilgrimage site where devotees gather, especially during the Phalgun fair, to take a dip in the sacred pond. It is believed that this holy dip cures ailments, purifies the soul, and brings blessings.

The story of Khatu Shyam Ji symbolises courage, devotion, and sacrifice. His connection to the Mahabharata as Barbarika, a valiant warrior who chose selflessness over personal glory, continues to inspire millions. On his birth anniversary, devotees remember his ultimate sacrifice and seek his blessings for a prosperous and virtuous life.