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Nari Semari Temple lies on the Delhi Highway near Chhata, Mathura, and is a Devi Peeth revered as the Kuldevi of regions around Mathura and Agra.
The temple is dedicated to Brij Rakshika Mata, the protector goddess of Braj.
It houses three idols: white, black, and dusky—representing Radha (fair), Krishna (black), and Lalita (dusky).
“Nari Semari” derives from “Nari Shyamli” or “Nar-Shyamli,” meaning Nar-Narayan; the area is also called Nar-Narayan Van.
This is believed to be the place where Krishna revealed his Narayan form to Radha.
Legend of Radha and Krishna:
Radha, upset with Krishna, wandered into the forest.
Krishna followed her disguised as a veena-playing woman named “Shyamli Sakhi.”
He comforted Radha; her anger faded.
Krishna then revealed his divine Narayan form.
The place gradually became known as Nari Semari.
Alternate Origin Legend:
Seth Dhandhu Bhagat of Agra, a devotee of the Nagarkot Devi, was granted her presence.
She warned him not to look back during their journey.
Near Nari Semari forest, he doubted and turned back.
The goddess halted there permanently and has been worshipped at that spot ever since.
The temple is especially known for Lathi Puja held on the last day of Chaitra Navratri.
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