India Guide
Madhya Pradesh
The Gopal Mandir
Northwest of Chattri Chowk, a chaotic market square in the heart of the bazaar, the picturesque Gopal Mandir was erected by one of the Scindia ranis in the early nineteenth century. With its distinctive blend of Mughal domes, Moorish arches and lofty Hindu sanctuary tower, the temple is a fine example of late Maratha architecture. Inside, the sanctum's silver-plated doors were placed here by Mahaji Scindia, who rescued them from Lahore after they had been carried off by Muslim looters. The shrine room itself, lined with marble, silver and mother-of-pearl, contains icons of the presiding deity, Gopal (Krishna), together with his parents, Shiva and Parvati.