The Legend of Barbarik

 In the annals of ancient Indian mythology and folklore, there exists a fascinating tale of a warrior known as Barbarik. Renowned for his unparalleled bravery and exceptional archery skills, Barbarik's legend continues to captivate the hearts and minds of people even to this day.

• Origins of Barbarik: Barbarik, also referred to as Khatushyamji or Shyam Baba, was born to Ghatotkacha, the powerful son of Bhima from the Pandava lineage, and Maurvi, a princess from the Nag clan. He hailed from the region of Rajasthan, known for its rich cultural heritage. Even as a child, Barbarik displayed an extraordinary aptitude for warfare, proving his mettle at a very young age.

• Mastery of Archery: Barbarik's exceptional skill in archery quickly became the talk of the kingdom. He could expertly handle multiple bows simultaneously, earning him the title of "Sarvashreshtha Dhanurdhari" or the "Best Archer of All." Legend has it that Barbarik acquired his archery prowess from Lord Shiva himself, who granted him three powerful arrows—each possessing the ability to inflict massive destruction.

• The Test of Lord Krishna: Barbarik's reputation reached the ears of Lord Krishna, the divine charioteer and strategist of the Pandavas. Intrigued by the tales of this prodigious warrior, Lord Krishna decided to test his abilities. Disguised as a Brahmin, Lord Krishna approached Barbarik and challenged him to string a mighty bow using a set of flowers. Barbarik effortlessly accomplished the task, much to the astonishment of Lord Krishna.

Impressed by his skills, Lord Krishna revealed his true form and praised Barbarik's archery prowess. He then requested a favor from the young warrior—to witness the forthcoming Kurukshetra War. Barbarik readily agreed, promising to support the weaker side.

• The Three Arrows and the Kurukshetra War: As the Kurukshetra War loomed on the horizon, Barbarik embarked on a pilgrimage to seek blessings from various deities. Lord Shiva, recognizing his devotion, appeared before Barbarik and granted him three potent arrows—the Brahmastra, the Agni Astra, and the Varunastra. These arrows had the power to end the war swiftly, as they were virtually unstoppable.

• Dilemma of Barbarik: On the eve of the Kurukshetra War, Barbarik stood at the battlefield, prepared to fulfill his pledge of supporting the weaker side. However, he faced a moral dilemma: with his three arrows, he could potentially annihilate both armies and end the war immediately. Barbarik's dilemma lay in choosing the side to support without causing a significant loss of life.

To resolve this predicament, Lord Krishna appeared before Barbarik in the form of a sage. Recognizing his true intentions and the magnitude of his power, Lord Krishna devised a plan to test Barbarik's commitment. He posed a challenge to the warrior, requesting him to tie the leaves of a Peepal tree together, knowing full well that the leaves would continue to fall.

• Barbarik's Unwavering Devotion: Barbarik took up the challenge, tying the leaves together with utmost devotion and concentration. He soon realized that despite his best efforts, the leaves were falling at an incessant pace. In awe of Barbarik's unwavering focus and faith, Lord Krishna revealed his true identity and commended him for his commitment.

• Barbarik's Sacrifice: With the moral dilemma resolved and his faith in Lord Krishna strengthened, Barbarik pledged his full support to Lord Krishna and the Pandavas. In a selfless act of sacrifice, Barbarik offered his head in service to Lord Krishna. He believed that his head could survey the entire battlefield and guide Lord Krishna in making the most strategic decisions, ensuring victory for the Pandavas.

Impressed by his devotion and commitment, Lord Krishna accepted Barbarik's sacrifice and blessed him with a boon. Barbarik's head was placed on a hill in the Khatu village of Rajasthan, where he was worshipped as Khatushyamji or Shyam Baba, revered as the divine protector.

Conclusion: The legend of Barbarik, the extraordinary warrior with his three powerful arrows and unwavering devotion, showcases the triumph of faith, sacrifice, and selflessness. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the virtues that hold the power to shape destinies and touch the lives of generations to come.

Addendum:
It is said that the head of Barbarik was offered to the river Rupawati by Lord Krishna Himself. The head was later found buried at the Khatu village in the Sikar district of Rajasthan. It was discovered when a cow started giving milk on top of this head. It was handed over to a Brahmin who worshipped it and meditated on it to reveal the story. 

The main gate of Rajasthan Sikar Khatu Temple

Roop Singh Chauhan – the then ruler of the region then received an order to build a temple in his dream. Hence came the first temple of Khatu Shyam in 1027 CE. Temple was built on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha in the Phalgun month of the lunar calendar. It is the same day when Barbarik had offered his head to Krishna before the Mahabharata War.
In  some versions of the legend, it was the queen of Roop Singh Chauhan – Narmada Kanwar who dreamt of the Khatu Shyam. A stone idol in unique black stone was also found. This is the idol that is worshipped in the main temple today.
He has the look of a warrior. 

Has big mustaches and there is a Veer Ras on his face. He wears fish earrings. His eyes are open and alert.
Khatu Shyam is not just the Kshetra Devata or regional deity of the region but a Kul-Devta or the family deity of many Rajput Chauhan families in and around Sikar.