At Khatu in the Sikar region of Rajasthan stands the celebrated temple of Khatu Shyam Ji, worshipped as a form of Krishna and revered in tradition as Barbarika, the mighty grandson of Bhima, who offered his own head in sacrifice before the great war of the Mahabharata. Pleased by his devotion and valour, Krishna blessed him that in the Kali age he would be worshipped by the Lord's own name, Shyam, and would be the support of all who are helpless.
Honoured as Haare ka Sahara, the refuge of the defeated, Khatu Shyam draws immense crowds, above all at the great Phalguna fair. He is among the most beloved deities of Rajasthan and the northern plains.
