Imphal - Sri Govindaji Mandir

Manipur, the twentieth state of Indian union formed in 1972 with Imphal as capital, surrounded by Burma, Nagaland, Mizoram and Assam on all sides has many Vaishnavate temples dedicated to Govindaji, Balarama, Jagannath and Krishna. As one proceeds along the high way to the capital, several well-built, imposing temples greet him and beckon their presence for veneration. In the capital, the centre of cultural, commercial and political activities, there lies adjoining the palace of former rulers, Sri Govindaji s temple carrying on devotional activities attended by the civilians of all castes and creeds, except the tribals, who embraced christianity under special circumstances. The temple is quite unostentatious, yet deemed an enticing sublime place of worship, adorned with twin gold domes and a vast paved court yard together with a raised spacious congregation hall for conducting group bhajans and discourses. The principal deity is Balaji, but popular as Govindaji. Daily puja is offered in accordance with agamic tenets, though modernity and Christian impact have imposed certain novelties as exemplified by the priests coming down the steps to accept the offerings to be made to the deity from the devotees standing in the paved court. Although, it appears bizarre, the core of Hinduism, nor the tenor of traditions, nor even the fervor of the devotees, underwent any basic change. Oddities seem permeating here, but they quite natural, since intermingling of cultures bring in certain modifications. Being situated in the posh locality, it enjoys regular streams of devotees including foreigners throughout the year. The vast compound houses some more independent shrines for Balarama, Krishna and Jagannath.

It is in the State's capital Imphal, so commands all conveyance facilities.

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