India is a sacred land known for giving birth to countless divine and heroic characters whose stories continue to inspire devotion and faith for generations. One such revered figure is Khatu Shyam Ji, affectionately known among his devotees as “Haare ke Sahara” — the support of the defeated. Located in the village of Khatu in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, the temple of Khatu Shyam is a significant pilgrimage site visited by millions each year. But do you know that Khatu Shyam’s original name was Barbarik, the grandson of Bhima from the Mahabharata? Let us explore in detail who Khatu Shyam is and how Barbarik came to be worshipped under this name.
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Barbarik: The Valiant Son of Ghatotkach
Barbarik was the son of Ghatotkach (Bhima’s mighty son from Mahabharata) and his wife Morvi (also known as Ahilavati). From a young age, Barbarik was endowed with divine powers. According to popular belief, he received a boon from Lord Shiva in the form of three infallible arrows, famously known as Teen Baan. It is also believed that he performed severe penance to Goddess Siddhambika, who blessed him with additional spiritual powers.
These three arrows had unique capabilities — the first could mark all enemies, the second would destroy them, and the third could bring all the arrows back. In some stories, Barbarik himself admitted that the third arrow was the most destructive of all and vowed to use it only when absolutely necessary.
Another local legend states that Barbarik had received a boon that he could only be killed when he was unarmed and unconscious. This ultimately became the reason Krishna asked for his head.
Barbarik’s Desire to Join the Mahabharata War
Barbarik had a deep sense of dharma and justice. He had pledged to Lord Shiva and Goddess Siddhambika that he would always fight on the side that appeared weaker or was close to defeat. As the great war of Kurukshetra approached, Barbarik prepared to join the battlefield. According to several folk accounts, he stated that he would not participate directly in the war but would observe it from outside. Mounted on his blue horse and carrying his powerful bow and three arrows, he arrived near the battlefield.
Barbarik Meets Krishna
According to various versions of the story, when Krishna learned about a powerful warrior heading toward the battlefield, he went to meet Barbarik. Some traditions claim Krishna disguised himself, while others say he met him openly. Krishna asked Barbarik about his intentions and which side he planned to support. Barbarik clearly stated that he had vowed to support the weaker side.
Realizing Barbarik’s immense power, Krishna understood that his participation would continuously shift the balance of the war, making it impossible to determine a rightful outcome.
Krishna Asks for Barbarik’s Head
To maintain dharma and preserve the sanctity of the war, Krishna requested a donation of Barbarik’s head. According to folk traditions, Barbarik willingly offered his head without hesitation. Pleased with his sacrifice, Krishna blessed him that in Kaliyuga, he would be worshipped as Shyam, and those who remember his name would be relieved of their suffering.
Some devotional television series even portray that Barbarik is revived at the end of the episode, symbolizing his divine and eternal nature.
How Did the Name “Khatu Shyam” Originate?
After Barbarik offered his head, his mother requested that it be placed in a sacred place from where he could witness the entire war. According to local belief, Krishna ordered that his head be placed in the village of Khatu (in present-day Rajasthan’s Sikar district). Years later, a farmer is said to have unearthed the head during excavation. A grand temple was then built at the site, and following Krishna’s boon, Barbarik came to be known as Shyam. The place where his head was installed became world-famous as Khatu Shyam.
Why Is He Called “Haare Ke Sahara” (Support of the Defeated)?
Khatu Shyam Ji is called “Haare ke Sahara” because he pledged to always support the weaker side. Even today, devotees believe that when they are defeated by life’s hardships, Khatu Shyam Ji stands by them as their final hope. He is not only believed to fulfill wishes but also to give strength and courage to overcome adversity.
Last Updated on July 30, 2025 by Hinditerminal.com