Kaina
- Sri Govindaji Mandir
This
charming vaishnavate temple visited during all seasons by a steady stream of
devotees lies atop a hill, about 921 metres above sea level. Its legend and the
origin of construction are quite awesome and fascinating too. According to
sthalapurana, Bhagya chandra, Maharaja of Manipur had a vision of Govindaji in
his dream and was commanded to build a beautiful temple for Him and install His
image made of Jack fruit tree. Deeming it good fortune, he commenced
construction and employed famous architects and sculptors to make it a jewel
among the shrines of his kingdom. When highest power embarks upon a project
divine, would there be place for mediocrity or faceless slowness? The temple
with imposing dimension adorned with breath-taking sculpture soon emerged and
elevated the souls of both builder and his subjects. As directed, the image was
carved out of a Jack fruit wood, available in plenty in that region. The temple
conducts several cultural programmes, depicting mainly the divine dream and
king's glory, at the temples Rasamandap and it is the star-attraction luring
huge crowds. Regular puja is offered with great devotional fervor.
It lies 29 km
off Imphal, accessible by bus from Imphal via Thoubal.
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