Dwarka History

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the historical significance of Dwarka?

  Dwarka is a sacred city that has been closely associated with Lord Krishna. According to ancient Hindu scriptures, Dwarka was built by Lord Vishwakarma (the divine architect) at Krishna’s request, and it is believed to have been the capital of Krishna's kingdom. The city is also known as the site where Lord Krishna performed several miracles, including his famous battle with Shishupala. Dwarka is revered as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India.

• How old is the city of Dwarka?

  The ancient city of Dwarka is said to be over 5,000 years old. It is believed that the city was submerged under the sea after Lord Krishna’s departure from the mortal world. According to archaeological studies, remnants of a lost city have been discovered underwater, which supports the claim that Dwarka existed long ago and may have been submerged due to natural calamities like floods or earthquakes.

• What is the mythological story behind Dwarka?

  Dwarka is most famously associated with Lord Krishna in Hindu mythology. It is said that Krishna established the city as a safe haven for his Yadava clan after he left Mathura due to the constant threat from his enemies. Krishna’s kingdom in Dwarka flourished and became a prominent center of commerce, culture, and knowledge. The city’s most famous event in mythology is the Mahabharata, where Lord Krishna played a central role, including being the charioteer of Arjuna in the Kurukshetra War.

• What are the key historical events in Dwarka’s history?

  Lord Krishna’s Kingdom: Dwarka was the capital of Lord Krishna’s kingdom, and the Dwarkadhish Temple marks the epicenter of Krishna's rule.
  Mahabharata War: Dwarka became the base for Krishna’s role in the Mahabharata, offering sanctuary to the Pandavas and shelter to Arjuna.
  Yadava Dynasty's Downfall: Following the end of the Mahabharata war, the Yadava clan indulged in internal strife, and Dwarka was destroyed in a great calamity, causing it to submerge into the sea.

• What archaeological evidence supports the history of Dwarka?

  Underwater explorations around the Dwarka coast have uncovered remains of an ancient submerged city, with structures such as pillars, walls, and roadways, which support the mythological claim of a submerged Dwarka. Archaeologists have also found artifacts like pottery, coins, and ancient inscriptions, all of which suggest that Dwarka was a well-established city during ancient times. The findings are considered significant because they correlate with the descriptions found in ancient Hindu texts.