Worship the Supreme at the Supreme Dhama

Mahanidhi swami

The powerfully purifying, blissful blessing month of Purusottama is coming! (17 June to 16 July 2015) Every three years, Bhagavan Sri Krishna arranges an extra month (leap year) to boost the bhakti of all His beloved bhaktas. Praised throughout the Puranas, the Purusottama month (aka Adhika-mas), and its accompanying one month vrata or vow of austerities, is unique in that the worshipable Deities of this month are Swayam Bhagavan, Purusottama Sri Krishna and His lovely divine consort Srimati Radharani.

Some Puranas recommend observing this vrata in Purusottama Kshetra (aka Jagannatha Puri). But since Radha-Krishna Yugala are the ista-devatas of this vrata, it seems that Sri Radha Kunda Dhama in Vrindavana, where the Supreme Yugala-kishora enjoy Their most intimate and blissful lilas, would be the best place to observe the Purusottama-vrata.

We are submitting the following wonderful quotes to inspire all seekers of love divine to spend their Purusottama Vrata in Radha Kunda. In the upcoming months, we will post a list of guest houses and ashrams to stay in Radha Kunda, and details on how to properly observe this most sacred of vows.

Shyama-kunda, Radha Kunda, Giri-Govardhana ki jai!

Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

The Supreme Glories of the Supreme Sri Radha Kunda

* Cc. 2.18.7 (Cc. means Chaitanya-caritamrta)

saba gopé haite rädhä kåñëera preyasé, taiche rädhä-kuëòa priya ‘priyära sarasé’

“Of all the gopés, Rädhäräëé is the dearmost. Similarly, the lake known as Rädhä-kuëòa is very dear to the Lord because it is very dear to Çrématé Rädhäräëé.

*Cc. 2.18.11

kuëòera ‘mädhuré’—yena rädhära ‘madhurimä’,, kuëòera ‘mahimä’—yena rädhära ‘mahimä’

“The attraction of Rädhä-kuëòa is as sweet as that of Çrématé Rädhäräëé. Similarly, the glories of the kuëòa [lake] are as great as Çrématé Rädhäräëé’s.

*Cc. 2.18.13

çré-rädheva hares tadéya-sarasé preñöhädbhutaiù svair guëair

yasyäà çré-yuta-mädhavendur aniçaà prétyä tayä kréòati

premäsmin bata rädhikeva labhate yasyäà sakåt snäna-kåt

tasyä vai mahimä tathä madhurimä kenästu varëyaù kñitau

“‘Because of its wonderful transcendental qualities, Rädhä-kuëòa is as dear to Kåñëa as Çrématé Rädhäräëé. It was in that lake that the all-opulent Lord Çré Kåñëa performed His pastimes with Çrématé Rädhäräëé with great pleasure and transcendental bliss. Whoever bathes just once in Rädhä-kuëòa attains Çrématé Rädhäräëé’s loving attraction for Çré Kåñëa. Who within this world can describe the glories and sweetness of Çré Rädhä-kuëòa?’” This verse is found in the Govinda-lélämåta (7.102).

*NOI 9 (NOI means Nectar of Instruction, Upadeshamrta by Sri Rupa Goswami)

rädhä-kuëòam ihäpi gokula-pateù premämåtä plävanät

kuryäd asya viräjato giri-taöe seväà viveké na kaù

TRANS: “And, above all, the superexcellent Çré Rädhä-kuëòa stands supreme, for it is overflooded with the ambrosial nectarean prema of the Lord of Gokula, Çré Kåñëa. Where, then, is that intelligent person who is unwilling to serve this divine Rädhä-kuëòa, which is situated at the foot of Govardhana Hill?”

PURPORT: Srila Prabhupada said, “Advanced devotees prefer to reside at Rädhä-kuëòa.  Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé has given much stress to Rädhä-kuëòa because of Çré Caitanya Mahäprabhu's desire to find it. Who, then, would give up Rädhä-kuëòa and try to reside elsewhere? No person with transcendental intelligence would do so.”

*NOI 10 ………paçu-päla-paìkaja-dåças täbhyo 'pi sä rädhikä

preñöhä tadvad iyaà tadéya-sarasé täà näçrayet kaù kåté

TRANS: (literal) …..Superior to all the gopés who always gaze upon the lotus face of Krishna, the maintainer of the cows (or gopis), Radhika is the most dear to Kåñëa.  O Radha! What fortunate person would not take shelter of Your lake.”

TRANS: (Srila Prabhupada)… “Radha kuëòa is as profoundly dear to Lord Kåñëa as Srimati Radharani, the most beloved of the gopés. Those who execute devotional service on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa are the most fortunate people in the universe.”

PURPORT: Srila Prabhupada said, “Everyone interested in Kåñëa consciousness should ultimately take shelter of Rädhä-kuëòa and execute devotional service there throughout one's life.

*NOI 11 yat preñöhair apy alam asulabhaà kià punar bhakti-bhäjäà

tat premedaà sakåd api saraù snätur äviñkaroti

TRANS: “Undoubtedly Rädhä-kuëòa is very difficult to attain even by great devotees, what to say about those engaged in bhakti bhajana. If one bathes even once in this lake prema arises.”

PURPORT: Srila Prabhupada said, “A devotee will at once develop pure love of Kåñëa in the wake of the gopés if he once takes a bath in Rädhä-kuëòa. Çré Rädhä-kuëòa is the most select place for those interested in advancing their devotional service in the wake of the lady friends (sakhés) and confidential serving maids (maïjarés) of Çrématé Rädhäräëé.

“Living entities who are eager to return home to the transcendental kingdom of God, Goloka Våndävana, by means of attaining their spiritual bodies (siddha-deha) should live at Rädhä-kuëòa, take shelter of the confidential serving maids of Çré Rädhä and under their direction engage constantly in Her service. It is also recommended that one should live on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa and be absorbed in the loving service of the Lord.

“One should bathe there regularly and give up all material conceptions, taking shelter of Çré Rädhä and Her assistant gopés. If one is thus constantly engaged during his lifetime, after giving up the body he will return back to Godhead to serve Çré Rädhä in the same way as he contemplated during his life on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa.

“The conclusion is that to live on the banks of the Rädhä-kuëòa and to bathe there daily constitute the highest perfection of devotional service. Thus there is no limit to the glory of Çré Rädhä-kuëòa. By serving Rädhä-kuëòa, one can get an opportunity to become an assistant of Çrématé Rädhäräëé under the eternal guidance of the gopés.”

*Radha Kunda Tilak (Srila Prabhupada Folio ref:  760816rc.bom) Acyutänanda Swami said, “Srila Prabhupada, our devotees are also wearing the Rädhä-kuëòa tilaka.” Srila Prabhupada replied, “There is no harm.”

* In Amrta Vani # 53, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada said, “The spiritual master has an eternal kuïja on the shore of Çré Rädhä-kuëòa. There he has bound Kåñëa by the power of his service.”

*The Amrta Vani Appendix contains a lecture given by Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada in Radha Kunda Kartika Oct 16, 1932:

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada said, “As the surrendered maidservants of Çré Rädhä, we have to constantly live on the banks of Rädhä Kuëòa.

“Çré Rüpa-maïjaré instructed that service to Rädhä-kuëòa, the highest object of Çré Gaurahari’s internal mood, is the ultimate goal of all service. Only the most fortunate live in the most sanctified place, Çré Rädhä-kuëòa, with pure hearts, and worship Kåñëa twenty-four hours a day. Çré Rädhä-kuëòa is the topmost section of Goloka, the most confidential place in the spiritual sky, and the only shelter for devotees on the platform of mädhurya-rasa.

“Only by Çré Rädhä’s mercy can one reside eternally on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa, the topmost place in the entire creation. Therefore Çré Rüpa Prabhu mentions taking bath in Rädhä-kuëòa in his ultimate instruction: tat premedaà sakåd api saraù snätur äviñkaroti, “If one simply bathes once within those holy waters, one’s pure love of Kåñëa is fully aroused…..

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada concluded this Kartika lecture at Radha Kunda by stating, “The topmost principle in the spiritual kingdom is to bathe in Çré Rädhä-kuëòa.”

*In an article titled “Radha Dasyam”, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada said, “The eternal land of our abode should be Radha Kunda. By the border of Radha Kunda we should have our groves.”

*In an article on “Radhastami”, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Prabhupada said, “To constantly reside on the banks of Radha Kunda and to bathe there with a mindful attitude is not achieved by any common, fortunate person.”

* The Gaur-Govinda Archana Smarana Paddhati recommends chanting the following mantra before lovingly and respectfully bathing in the divine holy waters of Sri Radha Kunda:

rädhikä-sama-saubhägya, sarva-tértha-pravandita

praséda rädhikä-kuìòa, snämi te salile çubhe

O Sri Radhika Kunda, You have obtained good fortune equaling that of Srimati Radhika Herself. And among all the holy places, you are the most praiseworthy. I am bathing in your sacred waters, so please be gracious toward me.

*In Gopal Campu (First campu prarthamam puranam 13-15):

Sri Jiva Goswamipada said, “The two lakes named Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda are the meeting of the lovers, Radha and Krishna. I think the sweet fragrances at those lakes are actually Radha-Krsna passionate embraces; the breezes there are Radha-Krsna’s passionate sighs and trembling, and the water seen in those lakes is Radha-Krsna’s passionate love melted into nectar!”

*In Bhakti Ratnakara, Sri Raghava Goswami said, “O Çréniväsa, know for certain that only by the grace of Srila Raghunatha dasa Goswamipada can one live at Rädhä-kuëòa.”

*In Vilapa Kusumanjali,  Srila Raghunatha dasa Goswamipada prays:

“O Radha-kunda, pond of sublime joy! My Swamini Sri Radhika is always absorbed in divine amorous pastimes with Her beloved paramour Sri Krishna on your banks. Thus you are more dear to the Divine Couple than anything else They cherish. Please, therefore, be merciful upon me, and allow me but a moment's vision of the greatest object of my adoration, Srimati Radharani.&

*In Manah siksa 9, Srila Raghunatha dasa Goswamipada prays:

priya-saro- girindrau tat-prekñä-lalita-rati-datve smara manaù, “O Mind! Always remember Rädhä-kunda and Govardhana Hill, the mere sight of which bestows charming transcendental love for the Divine Couple Radha-Govinda.”

*In Vraja riti cintamani 3.33-34, Srila Visvanatha Cakravartipada gives a unique description of the origin of Radha Kunda:

“Longing to meet, but forced to remain separate, Radha-Govinda assumed the forms of Rädhä-kuëòa and Çyäma-kuëòa. In this way, Radha-Govinda become splashed with the nectar of eternally meeting each other [at the sangam]. How did these divine kundas appear? I think that when Rädhä saw Kåñëa, Radha melted with ecstasy to assume a liquid form as the waters of Rädhä-kuëòa. In the same way, when Shyama saw Rädhä, Shyama also melted in ecstasy and became the waters of Çyäma-kuëòa.” And later in verse 39, Cakravartipada said, “Limitlessly beautiful Çré Rädhä-kuëòa is filled with Radha Govinda Yugala’s topmost love.”

Shyama-kunda Radha Kunda ki jai!   

Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

Six Ways of Prema

Mahanidhi swami 

Your goal of life and mine is love of God—Krishna prema—immaculate, unadulterated pure loving devotion to Radha and Krishna. As devotees, we all think about prema, we read about prema, we hear about prema, we discuss prema, we hanker for prema, we look for prema, we want prema, and we all hope to one day attain Krishna prema. 

But such a coveted and cherished pure goal of life is rarely attained. While describing the means to attain pure love of Sri Krishna, Srila Sanatana Goswamipada states that mercy or compassion is the main cause. 

Let’s examine six factors necessary for the attainment of Krishna prema, and see how we can incorporate them into our daily lives. 

1. Mercy: The prime cause of Sri Krishna prema is mercy, nidanam param prema, Sri Krishna karuna bharah.

2. Meditation: Prema develops by regularly meditating upon Krishna’s sweet Vraja lilas, Vraja krida-dhyana.

3. Singing: Daily sing about Krishna’s sweet Vraja lilas (lila-kirtana), Vraja krida gana.

4. Association: Mix with Krishna premi-bhaktas, rasa loka sanga.

5. Residence: Live alone in Vrindavana in a favorite pastime place (lila-sthali), of Sri Krishna like Radha Kunda, Govardhana, Seva Kunja or Varsana, priya krida vana raha nivasa.

6. Humility: The root and foundation of prema is to always, in all places cultivate the utmost humility in your thoughts, words and deeds, sthitam sarvatra dainya mulakam. (Br. Bhag. II.5.215-223)

Radha Govinda Yugala prema ki jai!

Krishna krpa ki jai!

Jai Jai Sri Radhe! 

Sleep at 10 Up at 4 For Death No More

Mahanidhi swami

We present this essay, based on scientific research, to help aspiring devotees recognize THE NEED TO TAKE REST EARLY each night (latest by 10 p.m.), and to rise by 4 a.m. each morning in order to chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra and attain the perfection of human life.

After conducting hundreds of experiments on sleep and health, the world’s leading scientists have discovered that to keep optimum health, one should sleep early and RISE BEFORE SUNRISE. The best hours of sleep for your body are between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. The scientists say going to sleep at 11 p.m., 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. is extremely harmful to human health, and is a direct cause of many modern “killer diseases” such as heart disease and cancer.

Nature acts and moves according to precise rhythm cycles influenced by the rotation of the earth, sun and moon. Daily the sun rises and sets, the seasons come and go, the moon waxes and wanes, and the ocean tides rise and fall. The function of sleeping and wakefulness is part of this natural rhythm.

In Nature, one finds that the animals and plants are awake and asleep in tune with these rhythms. human beings also have natural rhythms. Our human bodies, like Mother Nature, function according to natural cycles, body rhythms commonly called the internal body clock or the biological clock.

Disruptions of the natural functions of our biological clock due to improper habits and incorrect sleeping patterns cause many different diseases. When our bodies are out of balance and not functioning in harmony with nature, nothing seems to feel right. This is because hormones, chemicals and neurotransmitters that determine our energy levels, vitality, and how we feel, sleep and eat are out of sync. In other words, we are imbalanced and out of tune with our biological clock. We are going against the natural harmony established by mother nature and Bhagavan Sri Krishna.

Before the introduction of electricity in Indian villages, people would just naturally just go to bed shortly after sunset, as most animals do and which Nature intended for humans as well. The best hours of sleep for your body are the hours of 10 p.m. – 6 a.m. These hours and what your body is naturally programmed to do during these hours are governed by the movements of the sun and the 24-hour natural rhythm cycle of your internal body clock; both of which are beyond your control.

During these times (10 p.m. –6 a.m.), the human body is meant to be at a state of rest, repair, detoxification (elimination of waste products and poisons) and rejuvenation. Due to TV, computer, cell phones and Internet absorption most people nowadays are foolishly going against the natural order and design of our body. As a result, we will pay the price by getting various diseases and problems. For example, if your body is overtaxed digesting a heavy late meal or you are up late (after 10 p.m.) working, playing, watching TV or computer, your vital body energy is focused there and not available for rest and rejuvenation. Remember: Bad action brings bad reaction!

We are free to stay up late, and we make that choice. And thus we ignore our bodies, which want to rest so they can do the many things needed to keep us healthy. Let your mind rest once and a while, and give your body some time, so it can do what it has to do to reward you with good health.

The saying is “Health is the greatest wealth”. The main internal organs of your body work according to a “Time Schedule”. Knowing how your body works can help you regulate your schedule in order to attain the optimum level of health and well-being.

The biological clock and your internal organs

9.00 p.m. – 11.00 p.m.: At this time, your body eliminates toxic chemicals from the immune system (lymph nodes). It is best to be sound asleep by 9 p.m. or 10 for your body to properly execute this important function.

11.00 p.m. – 1.00 a.m.: This is the time your liver eliminates poisons and rejuvenates itself. It is best to be sound asleep by 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. for your body to properly execute this important function.

12.00 midnight to 4.00 a.m.: This is the time your bone marrow produces blood.

1.00 a.m. – 3.00 a.m.: This is the time your gall bladder eliminates toxins and rejuvenates itself.

3.00 a.m. – 5.00 a.m.: This is the time your lungs eliminate toxins and rejuvenate themselves.

5.00 a.m. – 7.00 a.m.: This is the time your colon eliminates poisons and rejuvenates itself. This is the proper time to empty your bowel.

7.00 a.m. – 9.00 a.m.: This is the time that vitamins, minerals, proteins and nutrients are absorbed in your small intestines. You should definitely eat breakfast at this time.

Scientists have concluded that everyone should go to bed early (falling asleep by 10 p.m.) to obtain quality sleep, which will ensure proper physical regeneration. When you cooperate with your internal biological clock and allow Nature to take her course, you will feel refreshed, joyful and energized when you wake up (by 4 a.m., of course!). Going to bed before 10 p.m. is essential to keep the human body in tune with Nature and to remain healthy, happy and holy.

material scientists have concluded that the average human being needs 8 hours of sleep per day, which is best obtained by sleeping between 10 p.m. – 6 a.m. However, if you follow a spiritual path by eating sattvic vegetarian food [especially Krishna prasadam], your body becomes healthy, light and sanctified. And by chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra and engaging in Krishna’s devotion, your mind becomes purified, pacified and relaxed.

Although, most people require 8 hours daily sleep, Krishna devotees usually only need 6 hours or less to maintain ideal health because their spiritual practices produce tremendous physical energy, mental peace, purity and internal harmony. Wanting all his followers to rise at 4 a.m., Srila Prabhupada said, “We request everyone to rise early in the morning by 4 a.m.” (NOI pg. 34)

 If possible (if there’s a will, there’s a way), everyone should follow the golden rule to rise at 4 a.m. in order to be healthy, mentally happy and progress nicely in spiritual life. There is a saying, and it’s true: “Early to bed—early to rise—makes one healthy, wealthy and wise”, provided of course that you chant Krishna’s Holy Names and serve Sri Krishna, Sri Guru and the Vaisnavas. Obviously to rise by 4 a.m, you must sleep early. Practice makes perfect. You have to try sincerely to change your schedule and work towards this goal of taking rest at 10 p.m. and rising at 4 a.m.

16 Scientific tips for good rest

1. Cave Like darkness: The bedroom should be pitch-black, so you can’t even see your hand in front of your face, which means no bright lights, clock lights, night lights or any light coming in from the windows. why? When we sleep in total darkness, the human brain produces a hormone called melatonin. Melatonin is an important antioxidant which protects our DNA structure and prevents cancer. Tests prove that even a small amount of light hitting the skin almost immediately shuts off the production of melatonin.

2. Daily go outside and get natural sunlight:  This helps regulate your biological clock and increases the production of melatonin, which promotes well-balanced sleeping patterns.

3. Daily exercise: At least thirty minutes a day will help improve the quality of your sleep.

4. Avoid bright lights: One should avoid keeping bright lights on inside the house before going to bed. At this time, bright light hitting the eye disrupts the bio-rhythm of the pineal gland and shuts off your melatonin production.

5. Hot shower before bed:  This relaxes the body and helps you fall asleep quickly.

6. Sleep as early as possible: You should be in bed and FAST asleep by 10 p.m.

7. Wear Socks to Bed:  This applies to cold climates only.

8. the bedroom should be free from electromagnetic field: Do not keep a TV, computer or any other electronic item in your bedroom because they create strong electromagnetic field which disrupts the quality of your sleep.

9. Fresh Air: Open the window at least a crack to get fresh air to circulate while sleeping.

10. Avoid fluids: Do not drink any fluids two hours before sleep.

11. Sleep Regulation: Get up and go to sleep at the same time every day. If you are up late one night, still rise at your usual time and nap later in the day.

12. Daytime Nap: If one needs to take a nap in the day, it should not be longer than one hour for optimal rejuvenation, rest and repair. If you nap longer, it will disrupt the night-time sleep quality.

13. Avoid Noise: Because it disrupts sleep.

14. Hot Water Bottle: To relieve tension and anxiety, place a hot water bottle between the navel and the bottom of your ribcage.

15. Head Massage: To relax before sleeping.

16. Foot Rub: Rub ghee or sesame oil on the bottom of your feet to promote restful sleep.

We hope this essay will help everyone understand the extreme importance of sleeping at the proper time, and rising early in order to realize the full potential of this rare and valuable form of human life. Our heartfelt desire is that each and every one will live a long healthy life full of Krishna bhakti, spiritual happiness, and attain the ultimate perfection of Radha Govinda’s eternal loving service in the groves of Vrindavana.

Jai Jai Sri Radhe!   Giridhari Shyama ki jai!  Sridhama Vrindavana ki jai!

Beautiful Boons of Bhagavatam

Mahanidhi swami 

Just by casually hearing/reading about Sri Krishna’s wonderful, sweet pastimes depicted in the Srimad Bhagavatam, you will attain four amazing blessings, even without desiring such priceless gifts.

Moreover, the inner peace and heart’s satisfaction you’ll feel by hearing the Srimad Bhagavatam will soon make you “fall in love with Bhagavata”, as you hanker to hear/read it every day, nityam bhagavata sevaya (SB 1.2.15).

But how does it all happen? As you hear/read the Srimad Bhagavatam, you will automatically acquire higher knowledge which will subdue your lower material nature and remove your miseries. You won’t even realize how this is happening—a magical transformation of YOU.

An extraordinary inner joy and satisfaction will arise in your heart like a rich sweet aroma coming from a field of blossoming roses. This new found joy will make you detached from material sense objects, and non-devotional people and places, even without trying for it.

You, the former materialist, have now become a spiritualist—a seeker of life’s essence, God’s love. And with your Bhagavata treasures of a peaceful mind and a happy heart, you will move quickly along the path of Krishna prema bhakti. 

As Bhagavan Sri Krishna says in Gita (18.54): “A spiritualist—free from grief and hankering—sees all equally and soon attains My pure love!”  

 

To summarize, let’s see the four great treasures of hearing/reading the Srimad Bhagavatam:

1) You acquire divine knowledge and peace to subdue your lower nature.

2) Delight fills your mind to dispel your gloom and despair.

3) Your joy brings easy detachment from material sense objects/people.

4) You attain a state of liberation leading you to life’s goal of Sri Krishna prema bhakti.

So my dear friends of loving faces!

May you all dive deeply into the fathomless, beautiful, exciting, fulfilling, romantic, wisdom-filled, purifying and blissful ocean of immortal nectar ambrosia named &The Srimad Bhagavatam!”

Grantha Raja, Amala Purana, Srimad Bhagavatam ki jai!

Jai Jai Sri Radhe! 

Srila Prabhupada Said

 Mahanidhi swami 

In the following conversation with his disciples, Srila Prabhupada gives some amazing teachings regarding three important topics relevant to many devotees today. May Srila Prabhupada’s sacred words serve to inspire those who are interested in deepening their understanding and practice of bhakti bhajana.

1) Sthayi-rati (One’s eternal relationship with Sri Krishna) 

Disciple: “Srila Prabhupada. One of the main ideas in their [group of disciples pursuing raganuga-bhakti in 1976] philosophy is that the living entity can desire to have any relationship he wants with Krishna.”

Prabhupada: “That's all right, he can desire.”

2) Raga Marga & Mahaprabhu 

Disciple: These devotees prefer to read about all the ecstatic symptoms on Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s body.”

Prabhupada: “That's all right. Be first of all bona fide. That is good ambition.” [“bona fide” means steady in principles and fixed in devotional service].

3) Reading Krishna Lila

Disciple: “Some of your disciples want to read all about Krishna’s pastimes.”

Prabhupada: “Then let them read. The books are there for reading. By reading, you become purified.” (BBT Folio 760607mw.la)

Mahaprabhu Radha-Krishna lila ki jai!   

Srila Prabhupada ki jai! 

Jai Jai Sri Radhe! 

The Day Govinda Became Ananta

Mahanidhi swami 

Once upon a time Sri Krishna was playing with Radhika and the gopis in an area near Yavata-grama and Kokilavana. Somehow the ancient pastime of Anantashayi Vishnu (aka Ananta Padmanabha came up in Their conversation. Suddenly Radhika wanted to see the lila of Ananta Vishnu resting on the thousand-hooded divine serpent.To satisfy His precious Priyaji,Shyama absorbed Himself in the bhaava of Anantashayi and laid down on a1,000 petalled lotus in the middle of lake, which turned into Kshirasagara. Much to the amazement of the gopis, Jaya Sri Radha adopted the mood of Lakshmi and massaged Ananta Vishnu’s lotus feet. 

When Chaitanya Mahaprabhu took darshana of this place, He swooned in ecstatic love remembering this beautiful pastime. We can glorify this pastime by reciting a prayer from (Vraja Vilasa-stava 91) by Srila Raghunatha dasa Goswami pada: 

sri gosthe prathayatu sada, sheshashayi sthitam nah “I sincerely pray that Sheshashayi Sri Krishna may kindly bestow upon me eternal residence in His beautiful and enchanting pasture lands of Vrindavan.” 
Today this lila-sthali is called Sheshashai, and in an old temple beside a large lake, one can see a wonderful Shyama black Deity of Bhagavan Ananta reclining on His bed with Lakshmi massaging His lotus feet.

Ananta Sheshayshayi Bhagavan Sri Krishna ki jai!
Ananda Khanda Bhagavan Sri Krishna ki jai!
Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

The Story of Madana Gopala

Mahanidhi swami 

The story of Thakuraji Madana Gopala comes from Advaita Prakash, the biography of Sri Advaita Prabhu written by Sri Ishana Nagara. Before the advent of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Sri Advaita Prabhu went on a tirtha yatra throughout Bharata Varsha, India. He also toured the lila-filled pastime forests of Vrindavana.

Upon seeing Govardhana Hill, Sri Advaita Prabhu submerged in an ocean of love filled with ever billowing waves of ecstasy. With arms raised above his head, Advaitacharya danced in joy as he beheld Radha-Krishna’s nitya lila-sthalis. He bathed in Manasi Ganga, took darshana of Harideva and did Giriraja parikrama, offering dandavats to Him.

At Dana Ghati, Sri Advaita Prabhu remembered Krishna blocking Radha while demanding tax. Joking to Himself, Sri Advaita Prabhu remarked, “This is the place where Radha and Her sakhis had to pay tax.”

Upon arriving in Vrindavana, Sri Advaita Prabhu stayed beneath a Banyan tree [now called Advaita Vata] at the foot of Dwadashaditya-tila beside Yamunaji.

At the end of the night, Sri Advaita Prabhu had a visionary dream of Krishna. He saw Sri Nandanandana captivating the worlds with His luster of fresh monsoon clouds. The Lord was sporting a crown of peacock plumes; caressing a flute to His lips; dressed in a shimmering yellow dhoti and sporting golden ankle bells. Krishna’s beautiful body, softer than butter, was filled with the nectar cream of rasa. Seeing Krishna’s extraordinary form, Sri Advaita Prabhu reeled in bliss and started dancing in euphoria with upraised arms.

        

At that time, Krishnachandra said, “You are My very body, and Your association makes waves of prema surge within My heart. You are the most generous Gopishvara Shiva, now appearing for the benefit of the conditioned souls. You are redeeming them by revealing the lost holy places, preaching pure devotion and by chanting of Krishna’s Holy Names. 

“Listen carefully! A divine jewel of a Deity of Mine, previously served by Kubja, named Madana Mohana, is lying abandoned in a kunja at Dwadashaditya Tirtha. In fear of robbers and vandals I have hidden this form of Myself. His body is covered with a thin layer of earth. Bring some Vrajavasis, uncover Me and establish My puja for the benefit of the world.”

        

After saying this, Krishnachandra disappeared. Filled with pure prema,

Advaita Prabhu loudly sang the name of Hari, raising His arms as He danced. Meeting the villagers, Sri Advaita Prabhu said, “Everyone, regardless social caste, quickly come with me to Dwadashaditya Tila to unearth a wonderfully elegant tribhanga Deity of Krishna.& 

Carefully wielding axes and shovels, the locals worked hard to unearth the Deity. All the Vrajavasis were awestruck to see Thakuraji’s matchless beauty. Under a nearby Banyan tree, they erected a straw hut and installed the Deity with the customary bathing rites and rituals. 

Advaita Prabhu engaged a pure Vaisnava brahmana in Thakuraji’s seva, and then went on Vrindavana parikrama. By the force of Providence some wicked miscreants learned of the new Deity installation. Heavily armed, they came to break the Deity and dishearten the local devotees. Seeing the approaching vandals, Madana Mohana assumed the form of a young child, a balak, and fearfully hid Himself in a flower garden. Not finding the Deity, the villains left with unhappy hearts. 

When the pujari came for puja, he saw that the Deity was missing. Thinking that Thakuraji left because He was displeased with his seva, the pujari started bitterly lamenting and began to fast.

        

Upon returning from his parikrama, Sri Advaita Prabhu saw that the Mandira was empty. Thakuraji was gone! Upon hearing what had happened from the pujari, Sri Advaita Prabhu cried out: “Krishna so kindly appeared to Me in Person! But feeling offended, the Lord has concealed Himself again!” Greatly disturbed and unhappy, Sri Advaita Prabhu started fasting without even drinking water.

While sleeping under the Banyan tree [Advaita Vata] that night, Sri Advaita Prabhu again saw Thakuraji Madana Mohana in a dream. 

In sweet words, Krishna said, “Wake up, Advaita! Out of fear of the villains I hid under some flowers in the garden. Even Brahma and others do not have the power to see Me like this. Only You are able to see Me with Your devotional eyes. Again I will reveal My perfect form, and the people rejoice in My darshana.”      

 

After this visionary dream, Advaita Prabhu woke up and quickly found Gopala under the flowers. Beholding Krishna’s divine form, overflowing with all ambrosial, succulent sweetness, Sri Advaita Prabhu wept profusely in pure love and fainted. He stood up but become stunned.

 Sometimes,  Sri Advaita Prabhu trembled; became covered with thrill bumps; or loudly exclaimed “Hari!”. Sometimes He danced and sometimes He fainted. After a while, Sri Advaita Prabhu returned to external consciousness and offered Thakuraji Sri Gopala some fruits and water. Afterwards, Advaita honored Krishna’s remnants while contemplating the Lord’s matchless mercy.

        

The next morning, Advaita Prabhu met the Pujari while bathing in Yamunaji. He told him, “O vipra! Quickly go to the Mandira, wake up Thakuraji and do puja! From now Thakuraji will be known as Madana Gopala. Just continue your seva puja, without worrying about the confidential secrets behind this pastime.” 

The brahmana replied, “But Prabhu, Thakuraji is no longer in the temple.”

Sri Advaita Prabhu said, “Krishna can never abandon His devotees.” Upon opening the temple, the amazed pujari saw the Deity once again. While contemplating these miraculous events, the pujari, in great ecstatic love, offered many prayers and praises to Thakuraji before he began his worship of Madana Gopala. From that moment onwards, the Deity of Madana Mohana was now manifest as Madana Gopala.

One night, Madana Gopala appeared to Advaita Prabhu in a dream said sweetly, “O  Sri Advaita Acharya! Listen to one thing! There are too many dangers here. So I am arranging for one Mathura brahmana named Caube to come here tomorrow and take Me. He and his wife always worship Me with parental love, thinking of Me as their son. I will surely fulfill their desires. 

“At present they have a son named Madana Mohana. I want to spend some time with them. Later when Sri Rupa and Sri Sanatana come to Vrindavana, I will leave Caube’s home and return to Vrindavana with them. So please do not hesitate to hand Me to him.”

Saddened, Sri Advaita Prabhu replied, “But listen Madana Gopala! You are the only treasure of My heart! You are my very soul, My joy and My strength! How will I survive without You? I will become like a fish out of the water!&

        

Hearing these plaintive words, Madana Gopala smilingly said: “Don’t worry, for I am forever subdued by Your love! Without You, My pastimes cannot be completely satisfying. Wherever You are, I will always be there with You. Please fulfill the desires of My devotee Caube by offering My perfect divine form to him. 

“Now listen and I will describe an ancient event. Once Vishakha-sakhi painted a picture of Me that is non-different from this Deity form of Mine. When Sri Radhika  saw that picture She became completely captivated!

“This eternally perfect painting is in Seva Kunja. You can go there and easily find it. Take this picture back to Shantipura in Bengal, and redeem all the conditioned souls there by establishing puja and seva to this Deity.”

Experiencing this visionary dream of Sri Madana Gopala ji, Advaita Prabhu became lost in ecstasy, dancing with raised arms while shouting, ‘Hari bolo’! Sri Advaita Prabhu finally calmed down after three hours of continuous cascading euphoria. 

At that time, the Mathura brahmana Caube arrived there. Clutching a straw between his teeth, he offered obeisances unto Advaita Prabhu. With folded hands, he said, “You are an omniscient avatara of the Lord, and You have unearthed the Deity which was previously served by Kubja-devi. 

“In a visionary dream, Madana Gopala ordered Me to quickly take this Deity to Mathura and begin His worship. He also woke up my wife, calling her: ‘Mother, mother’! Then Thakuraji told me, ‘You two are My mother and father. You should now rear Me in all respects.’ Hence, O Lord, I have come to You. Please bless me by handing the Deity over to Me.”

        

Hearing his humble plea, Advaita Prabhu handed the Deity over to Caube. Sri Advaita then began weeping out of great love in separation. Wandering into Seva Kunja, Sri Advaita Prabhu drowned in an ocean of prema as He found Vishakha-sakhi’s painting of Madana Gopala. Sri Advaita Prabhu carefully took that nitya siddha picture and brought it to His home in Shantipura to commence worship. 

Long before when Srimati Radharani first saw this painting done by Her dearest Vishakha, She sighed in joy exclaiming, &With the beauty of His smile and His tender glance, Madana Gopala has driven Me mad! Alas! Ever since I have seen this picture the cool moonshine seems as hot as fire, and fire seems as cool as the moon!” (Vidagdha Madhava) Advaita Prakash translation, Advaitadas)

Sri Sri Madana Gopala Thakuraji ki jai!

Sri Advaita Prabhu ki jai!

Jai Jai Sri Radhe!