A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1166

c5.1166

MATHURĀ. An ancient and celebrated city on the right bank of the Yamunā, surviving in the modern Muttra. It was the birthplace of Krishna and one of the seven sacred cities. The Vishnu Purāna states that it was originally called Madhu or Madhu-vana, from the demon Madhu, who reigned there, but that when Lavana, his son and successor, was killed by Satrughna, the conqueror set up his own rule there and built a city which he called Madhurā or Mathurā.