Srinathji

Srinathji is a revered religious figure predominantly worshipped in the state of Gujarat, India. He is considered a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, and his primary shrine is located in the town of Navsari, where devotees gather annually for a grand festival known as the Srinathji Mela. The idol in the temple is traditionally made of sandalwood and is believed to have been fashioned by the saint-artist Gadhidas.

The origins of Srinathji’s cult trace back to the early 14th century, when local folklore attributes his appearance to a vision received by a pilgrim during the monsoon season. Over the centuries, Krishna-inspired narratives have blended with local Navruta traditions, creating a syncretic worship style that accommodates both Vaishnava and Shaivite devotees. The festival features processions, devotional songs, and the offering of sweet laddu and besan chila, which are considered sacred.

Historical records from the Gujarat Gazetteer indicate that the temple was expanded during the reign of King Bharmalji II in the late 18th century, subsequently becoming a center for regional pilgrimage. In 1945, the Shri Srinathji Trust was established to oversee the temple’s administration and provide educational and social services to surrounding villages.

Srinathji’s worship emphasizes devotion (bhakti) and communal harmony. Many modern devotees view the celebration as a means to reinforce cultural identity, while simultaneously supporting local charitable efforts such as free medical camps and scholarships for underprivileged children. The festival has grown in scale, drawing thousands of pilgrims each year, and remains an integral part of Gujarat’s religious calendar.