Shyam Kund , also known as Barbarik Kund or Khatushyam Kund , is a revered pilgrimage site located  in the Sikar district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a significant place of worship for followers of Lord Krishna and the epic Mahabharata.

The legend Barbarik associated with Shyam Kund goes back to the Mahabharata era. Barbarik, a brave warrior and the grandson of Bhima and Hidimba, possessed extraordinary skills. He desired to participate in the Mahabharata war. Before joining the battle, he approached Lord Krishna and expressed his intention. In response, Lord Krishna asked for a demonstration of his archery skills.Barbarik showcased his skills by targeting a series of moving objects with his arrows. However, Krishna, in a divine plan, made one of the arrows stay in place. This arrow, representing Barbarik's immense devotion and willingness to fight, turned into a flower and returned to his quiver.Impressed by Barbarik's dedication, Lord Krishna asked him how many arrows it would take to finish the entire war. Barbarik responded that he could finish the war with just three arrows—one to mark all the warriors, one to mark all the horses and elephants, and one to mark the remaining objects.Krishna then asked Barbarik to tie his hair into a bun and place it on a hill, which became known as Shyam Kund. Krishna blessed Barbarik and allowed him to witness the entire Mahabharata war from the hill. Hence, Shyam Kund is a site where devotees come to pay their respects to Barbarik and seek his blessings.

Devotees often take a sacred bath in the waters of Shyam Kund, believing it to have healing and purifying properties. The Khatushyam Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna in his Khatushyam form, is also located nearby and is a focal point of religious activities.

Shyam Kund remains a significant pilgrimage destination for those interested in the Mahabharata's rich mythology and Lord Krishna's divine connection with Barbarik.

 

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