Nov 12, 2024, 09:53 AM IST

Khatu Shyamji Birthday: Know significance, how it is celebrated

Varsha Agarwal

Baba Shyam was born on Ekadashi, the 11th date of Shukla Paksha of Kartik month. His birthday holds special significance for all Shyam devotees. This year,  Khatu Shyam's birthday is celebrated on November 12, Tuesday.

A huge crowd of devotees gathers in Khatu Shyam temple in Khatu village in Sikar district, Rajasthan at the time of his birthday celebration. 

On this auspicious day, Shyam Baba's idol is adorned with floral decoration and traditional rituals are performed to worship the revered deity. 

On this day, a cake in Baba's honour is cut amidst chants of 'Shyam Baba Ki Jai'. A magnificent aarti is performed and Bhog  Prasad including raw milk of cow,  Panchemeva, Mava Ke Pede and Kheer Churma is offered. 

On this day, devotees also observe Dev Uthani Ekadashi fast to seek blessings from the  incarnation of Lord Krishna. 

Khatu Shyam, originally called Barbarik, is the grandson of Bhima, one of the Pandavas. Barbarik is celebrated for his extraordinary strength and valour.

His extraordinary sacrifice at the time of Mahabharata holds significant value. Lord Krishna asked him to sacrifice his head to ensure the Pandavas' victory against the Kauravs in the historic war.

Krishna granted Barbarika immortality and assured him that anyone who came to him would have their wishes fulfilled, in return to his sacrifice.

Barbarika transformed into Khatu Shyam, a divine figure destined to guide and protect his devotees. Through the ages, his story continues to inspire countless individuals, highlighting the importance of helping others in their times of need.