Khatu Shyamji Temple

Khatu Shyamji Temple in Sikar district, Rajasthan, is one of the most rapidly growing pilgrimage sites in North India, drawing over 1 crore devotees annually. The temple is dedicated to Shyam Baba — a folk deity identified with Barbarika, the grandson of Bhima from the Mahabharata, who was granted the boon by Lord Krishna to be worshipped as Shyam (a name of Krishna) in the Kali Yuga.

The current temple complex was massively rebuilt in the 20th century with crores of rupees donated by devotees, resulting in an expansive white marble complex with ornate shikhars, a large marble sabha mandap, and beautifully decorated interiors. The annual Phalgun Mela (Khatu Shyam Fair in February-March) attracts 20-30 lakh pilgrims over 3 days, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in Rajasthan.