Mathura

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Edwin Lord Weeks - Along the Ghats, Mathura

Mathura is an ancient city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is located approximately 50 kilometers north of Agra, and 145 kilometers southeast of Delhi; about 11 kilometers from the town of Vrindavan, and 22 kilometers from Govardhan. It is the administrative center of Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. Traditionally, it is considered to be one of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism and is revered as the birthplace of Krishna, who is a major deity in Hindu religious tradition.

History

Mathura has an ancient history and is mentioned in the oldest Indian epic, the Ramayana. In the epic, the Ikshvaku prince Shatrughna slays a demon called Lavanasura and claims the land. Mathura was the capital of the Surasena Kingdom, which was ruled by Kansa, the maternal uncle of Krishna. According to the Bhagavata Purana, Krishna was born in Mathura and spent his early years in Vrindavan.

During the ancient period, Mathura was a center for Buddhism. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka (reigned c. 268–232 BCE) built several Buddhist monasteries and stupas in Mathura. The city continued to be an important center of Buddhism until the 12th century.

Mathura came under the rule of various dynasties and empires, including the Gupta Empire, the Kushan Empire, and the Delhi Sultanate. It was also influenced by the Mughal Empire, under which it became a center of Islamic culture and learning.

Geography

Mathura is situated on the western bank of the Yamuna River. The city is part of the Ganga-Yamuna Doab, which is the area between the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The land is flat and fertile, making it ideal for agriculture.

Culture

Mathura is a significant cultural and religious hub in India, known for its temples, ghats (riverfront steps), and festivals. The most notable temple in Mathura is the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, which is said to be built on the exact place where Krishna was born. The city celebrates many Hindu festivals, but Janmashtami (Krishna's birthday) and Holi are the most prominent ones, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors from all over the world.

Economy

The economy of Mathura is primarily agricultural, with crops such as wheat, rice, and potatoes being the mainstay. The city is also known for its production of milk, ghee (clarified butter), and other dairy products. In recent years, Mathura has seen growth in other sectors, including small-scale industries, tourism, and trade.

Tourism

Mathura is a major tourist destination due to its rich cultural and religious heritage. Key attractions include the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Vishram Ghat, and the Government Museum, Mathura, which houses a collection of artifacts from the Gupta and Kushan periods.

Transport

Mathura is well-connected by road and rail. The National Highway 2 passes through the city, linking it to major cities like Delhi and Kolkata. Mathura Junction is a major railway station that connects the city with other parts of India.

Education

Mathura is home to several educational institutions, including engineering colleges, management institutes, and schools. The city also has a few universities offering courses in various disciplines.

See Also

• Vrindavan
• Gokul
• Govardhan
• Radha Krishna