First Online: February 16,2007
Page Last Updated: December 21,2007

The city of Mathura is a holy city of pilgrimage for Hindus, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is visited by the devotees as the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

According the Mahabharat, Mathura was the capital of king Kansa. Later it was ruled by Maurya and Shunga kings. Foreign travelers such as Megasthenes and Hiuen Tsang have left notes about the city.

The city was destroyed by Muslim kings --notably by Gazni Mohammed in 1018 A.D. and by Aurangjeb in the 18th century.

See Also:

• Exploits of Krishna -- Depiction of life of Lord Krishna in Indian art and mythology; includes a number of pictures from Krishnaleela.