Old Raas Mandal, Vrindavan/ Shri Raseshwari Ji Maharaj Vrindavan - This Place is of special importance because here Shri ShriJi Raseshwari (Radharani) Ji's deity is present in the form of Shyam Rang (Blackish form).
It is said that, while being absorbed in Shri Krishn's devotion here, Radharani's body color totally changed and became dark. There is no idol of Shri Krishn as such. That's why the place is also known as Shri Shriji Raseshwari Ji Maharaj.
Hit Harivansh Raas Mandal is linked to Shri Hitharivansh Mahaprabhu. It is said that Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu spent most of the time of his life in Sewa Kunj, Hit Raas Mandal and Madan Tera (Varaha Ghat) in Vrindavan.
Divine Pastimes of Shri Hariram Vyas at Raas Mandal:
It has so happened that Shri Radha-Krishna was doing the Raas dance and Radharani’s anklet broke, Vyasji being absorbed in Leela, present there because of his divinity, instantly mended it with his sacred thread. Some of the Vaishnavas complained about his behavior of removing his sacred thread of tulsi beaded necklace and putting it on Shri Radha’s feet. He, in fact, was very firm on his decision as he suggested for what purpose is this sacred thread to me if it cannot be used in the service of Shri Radharani. Seeing this moment, everyone was stunned.
Divine Pastimes of Shri Sewak Ji:
(Damodardas Ji): Damodardas Ji was a disciple of Shri Hitharivansh Ji. Shri Sewak ji merged with a banyan tree becoming one with the Lord near Raas Mandala in Vrindavan.
Divine Pastimes of Shri Dhruvdas Ji:
Shri Dhruvdas Ji: Dhruvdas Ji became a disciple of Shri Gopinathji, the third son of Shri Hit Harivanshji. Near Raas Mandal, Shri Radha-Krishna appeared once for his ardent desire. Actually sighting the Lord he composed padas compiled in the text ‘Bayalees Leela’ which showed the divine path to several bhaktas.
Timings of Temple:
Summer
Mangla Aarti: 06:00 AM
Shayan Aarti: 7:15 PM
Winter
Mangla Aarti: 06:30 AM
Shayan Aarti: 6:15 PM
Location:
Hit Raas Mandal is located at the bank of Yamuna, near to Cheer Ghat.