Nathji

Nathji, commonly referring to Shrinathji, is a form of the Hindu god Krishna worshipped in the Vaishnavism tradition of Vallabhacharya's Pushtimarg. The principal image is housed in the Shrinathji Temple in Nathdwara, a town in Rajasthan, India. Devotees regard Nathji as a child Krishna who embodies divine love and protection, central to the lineage’s devotional practices.

Origin and migration: The Shrinathji image is traditionally believed to have originated in the Braj region and was moved to Nathdwara in the 17th century to safeguard it from political unrest. The temple’s establishment by the Goswami community helped establish Nathdwara as a major center of Pushtimarg devotion.

Temple and worship: The Shrinathji Temple is a pilgrimage site for followers of Vallabha’s tradition. The deity is presented in daily rituals, attire changes, and offerings, with darshan ceremonies drawing devotees from across India and beyond.

Significance and festivals: The Nathdwara tradition has influenced regional music, poetry, and art. Major celebrations include Janmashtami, Krishna’s birth festival, and Annakut, a festival featuring a large assortment of vegetarian offerings to the deity.

Etymology and usage: The name Nathji is a respectful form of “Nath” (lord) with the honorific “ji.” In common parlance, Nathji or Shrinathji refers to the deity and the temple at Nathdwara. See also Shrinathji, Nathdwara, Pushtimarg.