Forms of Faith

Day 4 | Bet Dwarka, Nageshwar Jyotirling, and the Many Forms of Faith

(6 January)

The next morning in Dwarka, we began early. A cab picked us up directly from the hotel, and the day unfolded as a beautiful journey through devotion, history, and nature. Crossing the Sudama Setu, with calm waters flowing beneath, felt symbolic-like stepping deeper into the spiritual rhythm of Dwarka.

Our first major stop was Bet Dwarka. After submitting our mobile phones at the locker facility, we entered the temple premises. Despite the large crowd, opting for the VIP darshan line allowed us to reach the sanctum with ease. The main Bet Dwarka temple, along with several smaller shrines within the complex, carried a distinct spiritual charm. We offered prayers at temples dedicated to Rukmini Devi, Radha, and other deities, each space radiating quiet devotion.

One of the most touching moments of the day was our visit to the Sudama–Krishna Milan Sthal. This sacred spot marks the place where Sudama, Lord Krishna’s childhood friend, met him with nothing but three handfuls of rice (teen mutthi chawal) as an offering of love. The pujari ji narrated the story with such emotion and depth that it sent goosebumps through us. The simplicity of friendship and unconditional devotion felt profoundly moving. After a small ritual of donation, we were given chawal prasad, which we carried home as a cherished blessing.

From Bet Dwarka, we proceeded to the revered Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, the 11th Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The towering statue of Bhagwan Bholenath in samadhi mudra was awe-inspiring. Inside the temple, we offered prayers at the Jyotirlinga. A unique aspect of this temple is the ritual discipline—men are required to change into pure white dhoti before performing the puja. Following this tradition added a sense of purity and surrender to the experience.

After completing darshan at Nageshwar Mahadev, the journey took a refreshing turn as we headed to Shivrajpur Beach. Known for its clean shores and clear waters, the beach offered a welcome pause. We indulged in biking, boating, and a few sand sports, enjoying the contrast between the serenity of temples and the vibrant energy of nature. The salty breeze, open skies, and laughter made this stop both relaxing and rejuvenating.

Later in the day, we returned toward Dwarka and visited Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, located beside the Arabian Sea. The massive Shivling here stands dramatically close to the crashing waves. Locals shared how, during high tide, seawater often rises and partially submerges the Shivling- a powerful sight symbolizing the union of nature and divinity.

By evening, we once again reached Dwarkadhish Mandir to witness the Shringar Aarti. The beautifully adorned deity, devotional chants, and collective reverence created a deeply moving atmosphere. After the Aarti, we took the Bhojan Prasad offered by the Dwarkadhish Temple Trust, a sacred meal often associated with rituals like Tuladan. The food was simple, satvik, and immensely satisfying.

Tired yet deeply fulfilled, we returned to our hotel. The day had woven together faith, friendship, discipline, nature, and gratitude, leaving us with memories that felt both grounding and uplifting.

That day in Dwarka taught us that devotion does not follow a single path- it flows through temples, friendships, rituals, and even the open sea.