Kanbay (Ksheer Sagar)
Situated 8 kilometers from Pushkar, Kanbay (Ksheer Sagar) is a significant spiritual site where Lord Vishnu performed penance, and numerous deities, including Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, have visited. Known for its divine heritage and picturesque surroundings, the area is famed for its sacred reservoirs, spiritual practices, and legendary battles.
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Kanbay (Ksheer Sagar)
Kanbay, also referred to as Ksheer Sagar, is a revered location nestled in the Pushkar forest, near the banks of the river Nanda (Saraswati). This sacred site is associated with several important Hindu deities and historical events, making it a significant pilgrimage destination. It is believed to be the place where Lord Brahma was born from Lord Vishnu's navel lotus and where various divine events took place. Divine Activities and Penance: Kanbay is noted for its association with several deities who performed penance here. Lord Vishnu is said to have performed self-mortification for ten thousand years on one leg, while Lord Shiva undertook penance for nine thousand and one hundred years. Other deities, including Lord Som (The Moon) and the God of Fire (Agni Dev), also engaged in significant penance in this area. These acts of penance are central to the spiritual significance of Kanbay.
Historical Events:
Satyuga Yagya: During the Satyuga, Lord Brahma organized a Yagya (sacred ritual) in Pushkar, with Lord Vishnu residing at Kanbay to oversee and protect the Yagya activities. Lord Brahma performed silent prayers and circumambulated the area as part of the rituals.
Lord Rama's Visit: When Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshman, visited Pushkar, they stayed at Kanbay and performed penance for one month in secrecy.
Battle with Hans and Dimbak: During Lord Krishna's incarnation, he fought a significant battle at Kanbay against the princes Hans and Dimbak, who had tormented the sage Durvasa. The fierce battle involved massive casualties, and Lord Krishna ultimately defeated the demons, leading to a celebration of Krishna Janmashtami that continues to this day.
Spiritual Legacy:
Vedavyasa's Ashram: The revered sage Vedavyasa, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, established his ashram near Kanbay, where he composed the Puranas and divided the Vedas. The area is also known as Soorajkund Village due to Rishi Chyawan's penance and association with the sun.
Sangam of Saraswati and Nanda: The Prachi Nanda Saraswati Junction, extending from Kanbay to Mandka (Nand), is another sacred site where Lord Brahma advised taking a holy bath. The junction is surrounded by dense date palm forests and is known for its ancient statues of Lord Shiva and Vishnu.
Sacred Structures: Temple History and Architecture
Architecturally, Kanbay features several notable elements that enhance its sacred status. The site includes five steeped reservoirs, which are designed to overflow from one to another, creating a visual effect akin to a sacred spring. These reservoirs, surrounded by rocky terrain and dense forest, contribute to the area's natural beauty and provide a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection. The structures and temples at Kanbay, while modest, reflect traditional architectural styles and are built using local materials that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Divine Moments: Temple Gallery
Delight in the spiritual and architectural splendor of Pushkar's temples through our curated photo gallery.
