History of Mathura City, India
- Vrindavan Tours and Packages
- Jun 22
- 5 min read
Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Mathura City India is one of the oldest and most revered cities in the world. Known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura is more than just a spiritual hub—it’s a city steeped in mythology, culture, war, art, and eternal faith. The city's history dates back to at least the 6th century BCE and has been mentioned in ancient scriptures, epics, and foreign travelers’ accounts. From the times of the Mauryas and Kushans to the Mughal invasions and British colonization, Mathura has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties. This blog takes you on a journey through the many layers of Mathura City India’s extraordinary past.
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How Old is Mathura? – Unveiling Its Ancient Origins
Let’s explore just how ancient Mathura is, and why it’s so historically significant.
Mathura’s existence dates back to the 6th century BCE, as mentioned in Buddhist literature.
It was once the capital of the Surasena Kingdom, a Mahajanapada mentioned in early texts.
References to Mathura appear in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, confirming its mythological importance.
Chinese traveler Fa-Hien visited Mathura in the 5th century CE and praised its thriving Buddhist centers.
Archaeological findings include punch-marked coins, stone sculptures, pottery, and temple ruins from various eras.
Over time, the city transformed into a melting pot of cultures—Buddhism, Jainism, and Vaishnavism all flourished here.
Mathura in the Time of Lord Krishna – The City of the Divine
Mathura’s identity is deeply rooted in Krishna’s story, and his presence is felt in every corner.
Krishna was born in a prison cell in Mathura over 5,000 years ago, under King Kansa's rule.
The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple is believed to be the exact birthplace of the Lord.
During his youth, Krishna moved to Gokul and Vrindavan, but Mathura remained central to his divine leelas (plays).
He later returned to Mathura to overthrow Kansa and restore dharma (righteousness).
The stories of Kansa’s tyranny, Krishna’s birth, and the divine childhood have shaped Mathura’s sacred geography.
Mathura Under Maurya and Shunga Dynasties – A Center of Power
The city’s role during the Mauryan empire reveals its political and economic influence.
Under Emperor Ashoka, Mathura became a key center for Buddhism and urban development.
Numerous Ashokan pillars and inscriptions have been found in and around Mathura.
The city thrived in art and infrastructure—several monasteries and stupas were built during this time.
The Shunga dynasty, though Hindu in nature, preserved and expanded Buddhist structures in Mathura.
Coins and sculptures from this period show a blend of Hellenistic and Indian styles.
The Kushan Era – The Golden Age of Mathura’s Art and Religion
A period of artistic brilliance and religious harmony.
Under Kushan Emperor Kanishka (1st–2nd century CE), Mathura reached new heights in sculpture, trade, and faith.
The era saw the emergence of the Mathura School of Art, which influenced art across India and Southeast Asia.
Statues of Buddha, Jain Tirthankaras, and Hindu deities were carved with unmatched skill.
Mathura served as a trade hub, connecting northwest India with central Asia.
Temples, monasteries, and public buildings flourished, making it one of the most prosperous cities of its time.
Mathura and Jainism – An Often Overlooked Legacy
Though primarily known for Hinduism and Krishna, Mathura also has deep Jain roots.
Jain texts describe Mathura as Vishrangi, one of the oldest Jain cultural centers.
Several Jain Tirthankaras were believed to be born in and around Mathura.
Kankali Tila, an archaeological site, revealed remains of Jain temples and shrines from 2nd century BCE.
Many ancient Ayagapattas (worship slabs) have been excavated, providing insight into Jain devotional practices.
The city was one of the few places where Jainism and Hinduism coexisted peacefully.
Mathura During Islamic Rule – A Time of Destruction and Devotion
The medieval period brought challenges, yet Mathura's spirit endured.
During the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal rule, many Hindu temples, including Krishna Janmabhoomi, were destroyed or converted.
Mathura was targeted by rulers like Mahmud of Ghazni and later by Aurangzeb, who built the Shahi Eidgah over Krishna’s birthplace.
Despite this, Mathura remained a hub for bhakti (devotion) and poetry.
Saints like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Vallabhacharya, and Surdas spread the glory of Krishna through songs and writings.
The era witnessed an underground religious movement that kept the flame of Krishna bhakti alive.
Mathura in the British Period – A City Rebuilding Its Identity
Modern infrastructure and preservation efforts began during British colonialism.
British archaeologists and scholars began to excavate sites like Kankali Tila and Govind Dev Temple.
Roads, railways, and administrative systems were developed, connecting Mathura to Delhi, Agra, and Vrindavan.
Temples were gradually restored, and pilgrimages regained popularity among Krishna devotees.
Mathura Museum was established in 1874 to preserve thousands of sculptures and artifacts.
The city regained some of its lost grandeur and spiritual energy during this period.
Mathura Today – A Blend of Heritage, Pilgrimage, and Progress
Mathura has transformed into a vibrant city balancing ancient devotion with modern development.
It remains the heart of Braj Bhoomi, with lakhs visiting during Janmashtami, Holi, and Radhashtami.
Temples like Dwarkadhish Temple, Janmabhoomi Complex, and Vishram Ghat are major pilgrimage spots.
Modern tourism infrastructure includes hotels, railways, roads, and guided tours for domestic and foreign visitors.
The Krishna Circuit initiative under Indian tourism is reviving key sites.
Despite modernization, the soul of Mathura—its devotion to Krishna—remains untouched.
The Cultural Impact of Mathura – Art, Music, and Literature
Mathura’s cultural footprint goes beyond temples—it has inspired artists, musicians, and poets for centuries.
The Mathura School of Art became the foundation of early Indian sculpture.
Braj literature and poetry, written in the local dialect, still dominate Krishna devotional circles.
Saints like Raskhan and Surdas composed timeless bhajans in praise of Krishna’s love for Radha.
Raas Leela performances and traditional music continue to thrive, especially during festive months.
Mathura’s Holi and Janmashtami celebrations are broadcast worldwide, attracting cultural tourism.
Conclusion
The history of Mathura City India is not just a timeline of rulers and events—it’s a living heritage of faith, resilience, and cultural magnificence. From its Vedic beginnings and Krishna’s divine pastimes to medieval invasions and modern-day revival, Mathura has survived and thrived across millennia. Every temple, ghat, sculpture, and alley tells a story waiting to be experienced. If you’re planning a visit, don’t just walk the land—listen to its silence, witness its rituals, and let its stories live through you.
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FAQs – History of Mathura City India
1. What is Mathura famous for?
Mathura is best known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and a major Hindu pilgrimage site.
2. How old is Mathura City India?
Mathura’s history dates back to at least the 6th century BCE.
3. Was Mathura a Buddhist center too?
Yes, Mathura was an important Buddhist center during the Maurya and Kushan periods.
4. What is the Mathura School of Art?
It’s an ancient Indian art style that flourished during the Kushan period, known for red sandstone sculptures.
5. Are there Jain sites in Mathura?
Yes, Kankali Tila and other locations show strong Jain influence from the 2nd century BCE.
6. Who ruled Mathura during medieval times?
Mathura was ruled by various Islamic dynasties including the Mughals.
7. How did British rule impact Mathura?
They improved infrastructure and started preserving Mathura’s archaeological heritage.
8. What are the must-visit places in Mathura today?
Krishna Janmabhoomi, Dwarkadhish Temple, Vishram Ghat, and Mathura Museum are key sites.
9. What is Braj Bhoomi?
It refers to the region including Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, and Govardhan associated with Lord Krishna’s life.
10. Is Mathura worth visiting for history lovers?
Absolutely. It’s a treasure trove of ancient, medieval, and spiritual history.
