Prem Sarovar:
Once, Shri Krishna and Radha were sitting together. A honeybee was buzzing near Radha. Krishna asked his friend to remove it. When the friend returned after shooing away the honeybee, he said, “The honey has gone.” Here, the word “honey” refers to the honeybee and Krishna’s name as well. Radha thought that Krishna had gone away and she began to cry. Radha started crying repeatedly, “Oh, Pran Nath (beloved), where have you gone?” She was so deeply absorbed in her emotions that she failed to recognize that Krishna was sitting with her. Krishna tried to console her, but upon seeing Radha’s tears of separation, he too forgot that she was in his arms and began to cry, and a pool of love emerged from the mixture of their tears. When the sakhi’s (friends) saw their condition, they too forgot everything.
Radha’s female parrot started loudly reciting Radha’s name and the male parrot started loudly reciting Shri Krishna’s name. As soon as they heard each other’s names, Radha and Krishna regained their external consciousness and looked at each other with great eagerness. The pool of love emerged from the tears of their separation even though they were together at that time.
In this story, Krishna and Radha’s deep love for each other is depicted through their intense emotions and separation anxiety. Despite being physically together, they both became lost in their own emotions, forgetting their present reality. It was the sound of their names being recited by the parrots that brought them back to their external awareness and allowed them to seek comfort in each other’s presence. This story symbolizes the power of love and how it can truly consume and transport individuals, even when they are physically together. It highlights the depth of devotion and longing experienced by Radha and Krishna, which goes beyond the boundaries of human understanding.
Yogamaya Devi (Sanket Van):
Yogamaya Devi, the divine goddess of mystic energy and spiritual illusion, holds a unique and revered place in Hindu mythology. She is often associated with Lord Krishna’s childhood pastimes and is believed to have played a crucial role in facilitating those divine activities. Yogamaya Devi is a symbol of the spiritual world’s magical and illusory nature, guiding souls on their journey to realization.
Her grace and presence are celebrated in temples and devotional practices, reminding us of the profound significance of spiritual enlightenment and the eternal mysteries of the cosmos. Yogamaya Devi’s glories lie in her role as the divine orchestrator of divine play and the enchanting path to self-realization.
Bhajana Kutir of Srila Gopal Bhatta Goswami ji:
Teachings of Srila Gopalbhatta Goswami:
- Importance of Bhakti: Gopal Bhatta Goswami emphasized the significance of bhakti, or devotion, as the supreme path to spiritual realization. He stressed that a loving, devotional relationship with Lord Krishna is the ultimate goal of life.
- Simplicity and Humility: He lived a life of simplicity and humility, setting an example for his followers. He taught that humility is a fundamental aspect of a devotee’s character, allowing them to serve others and God with a pure heart.
- Love and Surrender: Gopal Bhatta Goswami emphasized the importance of surrendering to the will of God. He believed that through unwavering love and complete surrender to Lord Krishna, one can attain spiritual liberation.
- Scriptural Knowledge: He encouraged the study of sacred texts, such as the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, to deepen one’s understanding of Krishna consciousness and to guide one’s life in the right direction.
- Association with Devotees: Gopal Bhatta Goswami stressed the value of associating with like-minded devotees and engaging in kirtan (devotional singing) and satsang (spiritual gatherings) to strengthen one’s devotion.
- Service to Deity: He was renowned for his devotion in the service of deities, emphasizing the importance of deity worship as a means to develop a personal relationship with Lord Krishna.
Gopal Bhatta Goswami’s teachings continue to inspire and guide followers of the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition to this day, serving as a source of wisdom and spiritual nourishment for those seeking a deeper connection with the divine.
Sanket Bijarijiu – by Srila Prabhupada:
Nanda Kunda:
Nanda Gaon:
Nandagaon, a quaint and idyllic village located in the heart of Braj Bhoomi, India, is a place where the glories of devotion and the essence of divine love come to life. This charming village is inextricably linked with the childhood pastimes of Lord Krishna, and it holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and pilgrims.
The glory of Nandagaon lies in its association with Nanda Baba, the foster father of Lord Krishna. It is here that Krishna spent his early years, playing with his friends, charming the gopis (cowherd maidens), and stealing butter to the delight of the villagers. The stories of Krishna’s endearing pranks and his divine love for the gopis are celebrated in the hearts of millions.
Nandagaon is home to several temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna, including the Nand Rai Temple and the Yashoda Nandan Temple. These places are not just architectural marvels but also serve as spiritual havens where devotees can offer their prayers and witness the divine pastimes of Krishna.
Nandikeshwar Mahadev:
Pawan Sarobar:
