About Udupi Krishna Temple
A world-renowned Matha known for its unique worshipping through a window.
Udupi is a divine town synonymous with Lord Krishna and the delicious Udupi cuisine. The Sri Krishna Matha here is a major pilgrimage site where the Lord is worshipped in the form of a young boy (Bala Krishna). The temple complex is surrounded by eight Mathas (Ashta Mathas) that manage the daily rituals.
History & Significance
The history of Udupi Krishna Temple dates back to the 13th century. It was established by the great saint and philosopher Madhvacharya. Legend says that the idol of Krishna was covered in clay (Gopichandana) and was being carried on a ship from Dwarka. The ship got caught in a storm near Malpe. Madhvacharya, through his divine power, saved the ship. In gratitude, he asked for the clay mound, inside which he found the beautiful idol of Krishna.
.jpeg)
A famous story associated with this temple is that of Kanakadasa, a lower-caste devotee who was denied entry. He stood behind the temple praying fervently. Pleased by his devotion, the idol of Lord Krishna turned around to face the back wall, and a crack appeared in the wall so Kanakadasa could see him. This window is now known as "Kanakana Kindi", and all devotees take the first darshan through this window.