Know the Special Story of How Barbarik Became Khatu Shyam

Many of you may have visited Khatu Shyam Baba’s temple or may desire to receive his blessings. But do you know who Khatu Shyam Baba is and what is the mysterious story of how Barbarik became Khatu Shyam?

Where is the Khatu Shyam Temple?

The Khatu Shyam Ji temple is located in the Sikar district of Rajasthan. People from across the country visit this temple to offer their prayers to Baba. It is believed that once a person enters Baba’s court, his wishes are fulfilled, and Baba’s blessings remain with him forever. Do you know the story of Khatu Shyam Baba?

Who is Khatu Shyam Baba?

According to religious texts, the story of Khatu Shyam Baba is linked to the Mahabharata era. Khatu Shyam is none other than Barbarik, the grandson of Bhima and the son of Ghatotkacha. It is said that he witnessed the entire Mahabharat war even after his head was severed. During the Mahabharat war, Lord Krishna asked for Barbarik’s head as a donation, which Barbarik willingly gave. Afterward, Lord Krishna blessed Barbarik, saying that in Kali Yuga, he would be worshipped as Baba Khatu Shyam, and anyone who worships Khatu Shyam will receive his blessings.

Beliefs Associated with Baba

Khatu Shyam Baba is considered the deity of Kali Yuga. He is also called the support of the helpless. It is believed that anyone who comes to Baba’s court will be rescued from every crisis. Hence, the saying goes, “Hare ka sahara, Baba Shyam hamara.”

The Story of Barbarik Becoming Khatu Shyam

According to the story, Barbarik was a mighty warrior. During the Mahabharata war, Barbarik expressed his desire to participate in the war. When his mother allowed him, he asked her, “On whose side should I fight?” His mother pondered and concluded that the Kauravas, with their massive army and warriors like Bhishma Pitamah, Dronacharya, Kripacharya, and Karna, would surely win the war. Therefore, she advised Barbarik, “Support the side that is losing.” Barbarik vowed to do so and set off to the battlefield.

Lord Krishna was aware of Barbarik’s pledge and knew the outcome of the war. If Barbarik sided with the Kauravas after seeing them losing, it would make it difficult for the Pandavas to win.

Thus, Lord Krishna disguised himself as a Brahmin and approached Barbarik, asking for his head as a donation. Barbarik was puzzled and wondered why a Brahmin would ask for his head. He requested the Brahmin to reveal his true form. Lord Krishna then revealed his divine, universal form to Barbarik. In awe, Barbarik took out his sword and offered his head at Lord Krishna’s feet, expressing his wish to witness the entire Mahabharata war.

Lord Krishna then placed Barbarik’s head on the highest hill near the battlefield, where he could watch the entire war. Lord Krishna blessed Barbarik, saying that in Kali Yuga, people would worship him as Shyam, and anyone who prays to him will receive Lord Krishna’s blessings. As per the vow he made to his mother, Barbarik would always support the losing side, and people would come to his temple and have their wishes fulfilled.