Dauji Temple, Baldev

Dauji Temple is a prominent Hindu temple located in Baldev town in Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh, dedicated to Lord Balarama (Dauji), the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Situated about 20 km southeast of Mathura in the Braj region, it enshrines a revered black stone idol of Dauji with Goddess Revati. Built in the 16th century and noted for its traditional architecture, it is a major pilgrimage centre famous for its unique Huranga Holi celebrations.

Visitors can expect a traditional North Indian temple complex with a main sanctum housing the large black stone idol of Lord Balarama alongside Revati, pillared halls, open courtyards and a devotional atmosphere with daily aarti and bhajans. The temple is surrounded by lanes with prasad and souvenir shops and is close to the sacred Kshir Sagar (Balbhadra Kund). The complex is accessible for darshan, parikrama and photography in outer areas, becoming highly vibrant and crowded during festivals.

The temple is believed to have been originally constructed in 1535 CE and is among the oldest Braj temples dedicated to Balarama. It has been renovated and maintained over centuries and remains a central shrine for the worship of Dauji in the Braj region.

Dedicated to Lord Balarama, revered as the elder brother of Krishna and an incarnation of Shesha, the temple holds high religious importance in Braj culture. It is a key pilgrimage site during Braj 84 Kos Yatra, Balarama Jayanti, Dev Chhath and is especially renowned for the Huranga Holi tradition where devotees playfully celebrate with colors.