The ancient city of Dwarka, traditionally called Dvaraka, is a place of immense significance in Hindu mythology and history. It has also long captured the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and devotees alike. Reason being, the ancient city of Dwarka, which was created by the Hindu deity Krishna, was believed to have submerged under the Arabian Sea post Krishna’s demise.
In Short
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PM Modi visited Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka, Gujarat and dived into the Arabian Sea.
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The city was said to have been reclaimed from the sea by Lord Krishna.
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Excavations have unveiled ancient artefacts and remnants of the ancient Dwarka.
“To pray in the city of Dwarka, which is immersed in the waters, was a very divine experience. I felt connected to an ancient era of spiritual grandeur and timeless devotion. May Bhagwan Shri Krishna bless us all,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X after he visited the Dwarkadhish Temple in Gujarat’s Dwarka on Sunday.
After PM Modi dived into the Arabian Sea, he said, “Those moments will stay with me forever”.
The Lost City of Dwarka
The ancient city of Dwarka, located in present-day Gujarat, India, holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and history. According to the epic Mahabharata, Dwarka was the capital city of Lord Krishna’s kingdom. However, what makes Dwarka truly intriguing is the mystery surrounding its submersion and the ongoing archaeological excavations that have unearthed fascinating relics.
The Mythical Origins
As per the legends, this now sunken city was once the dwelling place of Lord Krishna. He was not the king of Dwarka, but was the one who created it. It is believed that Krishna asked Samudra, the ocean god, to lend him 12 yojans of land for the city. The ocean god agreed and gave Krishna the land, which was earlier known as Kushasthali. Later, Krishna renamed it to Dwaravati or Dwarka.
It is believed that the ancient city of Dwarka was built with the help of divine architects and was often referred to as the Golden City. The city’s richness was amplified by the presence of Krishna. Back in the day, Krishna’s presence in the city brought pilgrims from places far and wide. Interestingly, this trend continues till today. For the followers of Krishna, the present-day city of Dwarka is one of the most important places of pilgrimage.
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, established the city of Dwarka after defeating the evil king Kansa. Dwarka was a prosperous and technologically advanced city, known for its opulence and grandeur. It was believed to be a divine city, protected by Lord Krishna himself.
The city of Dwarka is mentioned in various ancient texts, including the Mahabharata, the Harivamsa, and the Vishnu Purana. These texts describe the city’s magnificent architecture, its sprawling palaces, and the presence of Lord Krishna’s divine palace, also known as the Sudarshan Chakra.
Though it is highly debated among scholars, with some saying that the submersion of Dwarka is a metaphorical one. Some believe that the sea swallowed the city for sure. If we look at the former, it is interesting to note that the city of Dwarka was a port city and it could have ended in a natural disaster like coastal erosion overtime.
The mystery of Dwarka’s existence, both as a thriving city and its eventual submersion, has driven numerous archaeological expeditions along the Indian coastline. These expeditions brought forward submerged walls that were once a part of a fortified city, pottery, sculptures, and artifacts.
Also read: Ancient Indian Cities Mentioned in Epics
The Submersion of Dwarka
One of the most intriguing aspects of Dwarka is its sudden submersion. According to ancient texts, the city was submerged in the Arabian Sea after Lord Krishna’s departure from Earth. This event, known as the “Dwarka deluge,” is believed to have occurred around 5,000 years ago.
While the submersion of Dwarka is considered a myth by some, there is growing evidence to suggest that there may be truth to this ancient tale. Archaeological excavations conducted in the late 20th century have uncovered remnants of a submerged city off the coast of Dwarka.
Archaeological Discoveries
It is questions like these that keep adding to the mystery of Dwarka. Was it a well-planned city or a well-preserved myth?
Based on the scriptures, many argue that the submerged structures could be natural formations or that the dating of artefacts might not conclusively place them within the Mahabharata’s timeframe. However, there is a trove to uncover, and an ocean to learn about it.
The quest to uncover Dwarka’s sunken secrets started in the 1930s by Hiranand Shastri, followed by the first extensive excavation being carried out in 1963 by a team led by JM Nanavati and HD Sankalia.
Subsequent excavations, undertaken by marine archaeologists, unveiled a plethora of ancient artefacts and the submerged remnants of the ancient Dwarka.
Between 1983 and 1990, archaeologists unearthed many such secrets, including a fortified foundation, stone blocks, pillars, stone anchors and irrigation streams, upon which the ancient city walls of Dwarka likely stood, according to UNESCO.
Before that, scholars like Anant Sadashiv Altekar and DD Koshambi suggested that Gujarat’s Dwarka had no link to the famed kingdom of Krishna.
Furthermore, the artifacts recovered from the site provide evidence of a technologically advanced society. The presence of pottery, beads, and jewelry made from materials not found locally indicates trade connections with distant regions.
The Significance of Dwarka
The submersion of Dwarka and its subsequent discovery have sparked debates and discussions among historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts. The existence of a city matching the descriptions of Dwarka mentioned in ancient texts lends credibility to the legends and mythology associated with Lord Krishna.
Moreover, the underwater remains of Dwarka provide valuable insights into ancient maritime trade and urban planning. The discoveries have shed light on the advanced engineering techniques employed by the people of that era, as well as their knowledge of navigation and shipbuilding.
Today, Dwarka continues to be an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna. The Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna ,also known as Jagat Mandir attracts thousands of visitors each year. The city’s rich history, combined with its spiritual significance, makes it a captivating destination for both religious and historical exploration.
Things To Do In Dwarka
There are various places to visit in Dwarka where you will find more about lost city Dwarka its history and much more.
- Shree Dwarkadhish Temple: Pay homage to Lord Krishna at this revered temple, which stands as a symbol of devotion and faith.
- Gopi Talav: Explore the serene surroundings of this sacred lake, believed to be the bathing place of the gopis.
- Gomti River: Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Gomti River and witness the beauty of its tranquil waters.
- Bet Dwarka: Visit the island of Bet Dwarka, home to ancient temples and archaeological wonders.
- Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Seek blessings at this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, overlooking the Arabian Sea.
- Rukmini Devi Temple: Marvel at the exquisite architecture of this temple dedicated to Rukmini, the consort of Lord Krishna.
Also Read: Unveiling the Glorious Vijayanagara Empire: A Journey Through Time and Culture
Best Time to Visit Dwarka
You can visit Dwarka anytime during the year. But the best time to visit Dwarka is from November to February. During these months the weather is cool, pleasant and enjoyable to explore Dwarka.
How To Reach Dwarka
By Road
Dwarka is well-connected to various cities with GSRTC buses, private buses and taxis.
Distance from Dwarka:
- Jamnagar – 131 km
- Junagadh – 209 km
- Somnath – 235 km
- Rajkot – 222 km
- Bhavnagar – 408 km
- Ahmedabad – 439 km
By Rail
The city has its own railway station and is well-connected to major cities and states. If you are not getting the direct train to Dwarka you will easily get a train to Ahmedabad or Rajkot. From there you will easily get a direct train to reach Dwarka.
By Air
The nearest airport to Dwarka is Porbandar at a distance of 96 km. From there you will easily get public and private buses or taxis.
Government Sites Links:
- Official Website of Dwarka Municipality
- Gujarat Tourism – Dwarka
- Indian Railways – Dwarka Railway Station
- Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC)
- Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
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Let us continue to explore, discover, and honor the legacy of these ancient Indian cities, for in their stories lie the essence of our nation’s soul and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
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