Puruṣottam Pura Bhag (पुरुषोत्तम पुरा भाग)

• What it is: It is a specific section, ghat (bathing step area), or park that forms the Western Bank (पश्चिमी तट) of the colossal Brahma Sarovar tank. The term ‘Bhag’ (भाग) simply means ‘part’ or ‘section.’

• Significance of the Name: The name Puruṣottam (meaning ‘Best of Men,’ a title for Lord Vishnu or Krishna) links this area directly to the spiritual and mythological importance of Kurukshetra, the land of the Mahabharata.

• Key Landmarks in this Area: This section of the bank is one of the most developed and frequently visited. It features several key attractions and historical sites:

  • The Main Aarti Venue: The famous evening Maha-Aarti (grand prayer ceremony) for Brahma Sarovar is prominently held on this western bank.

  • The Krishna-Arjuna Rath (Chariot): The iconic, large-scale monument depicting Lord Krishna and Arjuna in their chariot, a symbol of the Gita Updesh (Bhagavad Gita lesson), is located here.

  • Draupadi Koop (Draupadi’s Well): A historical well believed to be associated with the epic character Draupadi is also found in this section.

  • Beautification and Development: This particular ‘Bhag’ is consistently the focus of development and renovation efforts by the Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB) to maintain its status as the principal ceremonial area.