The Dwarkadhish Temple, commonly known as the Bethak Mandir is situated in the Kevda Baug area. The temple belongs to the Pushtimarg sect of the Vaishnav community and was built more than 200 years ago.
The place where the temple stands now, probably already had a temple there, also belonging to the Pushtimarg sect, of the Vaishnav community and was probably built around 1810s . This old temple where the Bethak Mandir now stands, was purchased by the the then owner (Shri Vraj Bhushanlalji) of the temple in the year 1846. Earlier the temple used organize regular Bhagwat Saptaahs because of which it came to be known as the “Bethak Mandir”. The idol of, Lord Dwarkadhish, that is now worshiped in the temple was actually brought from Kankroli, Rajasthan and was placed in the temple in 1850.
It is said that the current temple was built with the help of the people of Vaishnav Community along with some help from the Gaekwad family.
Originally called “Sundar Niwas”, unlike the other buildings of the time, this building is a very austere structure devoid of much embellishments. Built in brick and wood, the building is a simple structure with a big courtyard in the center.
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The temple is well known for it’s faithful devotees celebrating all the festivals in glory and flamboyance.
I have fond memories of this temple from my childhood. I used to live nearby and we friends would play with the tortoises and rabbits in the temple.
I had pleasure meeting VrajbhushanLalji, Vitthalnathji, Parag Raja, Shishir Raja, Vagish Bawa, Dwarjeshlalji. Of course Krishnakumar, Dr.Akshaykymar, Pranay, Paritish, Pankaj and Pappi. I was fortunate to cover wedding of Bhavanaji. A fabulous wedding.
Shri Vrajbhushanlalji Purchaed this temple in 1846 at age 10. At what age you met him?