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18 Glories of Radha Kunda

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

In his comments on Sri Rupa Goswamipada’s “Upadesamrta”, Srila Prabhupada reveals the unique identity of Sri Radha-kunda and the glories of visiting, living, and bathing there. To more deeply understand Srila Prabhupada’s wonderful illumination, we introduce each quotation with a question.

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, of the many holy places in Vraja Mandala like Mathura, Vrindavana, Varsana, Nandagrama and Govardhana—which is the topmost place?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Radha-kunda is superior to all!”

  1. Devotee: What makes Radha-kunda so special and superior, Srila Prabhupada?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Because it is there [at Radha-kunda] that love of Krishna overflows!”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada! If one wants to live somewhere in Vraja Mandala in Vrindavana, where should one stay?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Advanced devotees prefer to reside at Radha-kunda.”

  1. Devotee: Why is that Srila Prabhupada?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Because this place [Radha-kunda] is the site of many memories of the eternal loving affairs between Krishna and Radharani [rati-vilasa].”

  1. Devotee: Can you say more about why Radha-kunda is so glorious, Srila Prabhupada?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Why is Radha-kunda so exalted? The lake is so exalted because it belongs to Srimati Radharani, and among all the gopis, Radharani is the most beloved of Krishna!”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, what does Bhagavan Sri Krishna think of Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Sri Radha-kunda is also described by great sages as the lake that is as dear to Krishna as Radha Herself. Indeed, Krishna’s love for Radha-kunda and Srimati Radharani is the same in all respects!”

  1. Devotee: Wow, that’s amazing Srila Prabhupada! I never knew that Radha-kunda was so special and dear to Krishna. Srila Prabhupada is there any limit to the glories of this most wonderful and sacred Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “There is no limit to the glory of Sri Radha-kunda.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, why does Sri Rupa Gosvami glorify Radha-kunda so much?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Sri Rupa Gosvami has given much stress to Radha-kunda because of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s desire to find it.”

  1. Devotee: So, Srila Prabhupada, since we are Gaudiya Vaisnavas and worshipers of Mahaprabhu, does this mean that we should live at Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “[Of course] Who, then, would give up Radha-kunda and try to reside elsewhere? No person with transcendental intelligence would do so.”

  1. Devotee: “So what you’re saying Srila Prabhupada is that an intelligent, mature devotee should live at Radha-kunda and worship Radha-Krishna in order to attain spiritual perfection?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Living entities who are eager to return home to the transcendental kingdom of God, Goloka Vrndavana, by means of attaining their spiritual bodies (SIDDHA DEHAS) SHOULD LIVE AT RADHA KUNDA, take shelter of the confidential serving maids [manjari/dasis] of Sri Radha, and under their direction engage constantly in Radha’s service.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, are there any special benefits of bathing in Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “It is stated that a devotee will at once develop pure love of Krishna in the wake of the gopis if he ONCE TAKES A BATH in Radha-kunda. If one bathes even once, he can develop his transcendental love for Krishna, exactly as the gopis did.”

  1. Devotee: But Srila Prabhupada, many devotees are confused about this point. So is it okay to bathe in Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “Sri Rupa Gosvami recommends that even if one cannot live permanently on the banks of Radha-kunda, he should at least TAKE A BATH in the lake AS MANY TIMES AS POSSIBLE! This is a most important item in the execution of devotional service.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, can you say anything more about bathing in Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “One should bathe there regularly and give up all material conceptions, taking shelter of Sri Radha and Her assistant gopis.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, it seems you are saying that devotees should bathe in Radha-kunda and also live in Radha-kunda. Is that right?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “[Yes!] It is also recommended that ONE SHOULD LIVE on the banks of Radha-kunda and should be absorbed in the loving service of the Lord.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, these days we see many devotees serving Radha-kunda in various ways like parikrama, offering lamps, sweeping, cleaning the sacred waters, planting trees, and renovating the kutirs and samadhis of the Goswamis.

Srila Prabhupada, can you say something about the benefits of serving Radha-kunda?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “By serving Radha-kunda, one can get an opportunity to become an assistant of Srimati Radharani [become a manjari] under the eternal guidance of the gopis.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, from everything you said so far, it seems that the conclusion is that to bathe and live always in Radha-kunda is the perfection of Krishna consciousness?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “The conclusion is that to live on the banks of the Radha-kunda, and to bathe there daily constitute the highest perfection of devotional service.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, are you are saying that Radha-kunda is the ideal place for cultivating Krishna consciousness?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “[Yes!] Therefore, everyone interested in Krishna consciousness should ultimately take shelter of Radha-kunda, and execute devotional service there throughout one’s life.”

  1. Devotee: Srila Prabhupada, to summarize everything we discussed, can you please answer this last question?

What will happen to a devotee who bathes regularly in Radha-kunda, and lives his whole life in Radha-kunda meditating on serving Srimati Radharani in the mood of the gopis?

SRILA PRABHUPADA: “If one is thus constantly engaged during his lifetime, after giving up the body he WILL GO BACK TO GODHEAD to serve Sri Radha in the same way as he contemplated during his life on the banks of Radha-kunda.”

(Upadesamrita “Nectar of Instruction” v. 10-11/ SP purports)

Sri Radha-kunda ki jai! Srila Prabhupada ki jai!

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Sri Radha Kunda Appearance Lila

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

In his Sarartha Darshini tika (Srimad Bhagavatam 10.36.16), Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti describes the Radha-kunda appearance based on the following funny dialogue from the Vishnu Purana occurring after Sri Krishna vanquished the demon bull.

The innocent young gopis said, “Ah, Krishna, don’t touch us now, O killer of a bull! Alas, even though Arista was a terrible demon, still he was posing as a bull, who represents dharma.

“Thus You must undergo atonement, just as Indra did after killing Vrtrasura. You can purify Yourself of this terrible transgression by visiting every single holy place in the three worlds.”

Krishna: “Why should I travel throughout the universe? I will instantly call all the tirthas here and bathe in them. Just watch!”

Then Mukunda struck His left heel on the ground.

Within moments a miracle happened, and then Priyatama Syama said, “Bho Bho sakhis! Just see, the Patala Ganga from the subterranean realm has come here. Now I will command all the tirthas to follow her example.” Magically, all the sacred tirthas in the universe suddenly manifested right in front of Sri Krishna!

Proudly, Krishna then chided the gopis, “Just see My beloveds. Here are ALL THE TIRTHAS!”

The Vraja-gopis haughtily replied, “Sorry, we don’t see all those tirthas You’re talking about.”

Then each tirtha personified humbly identified themselves to Sri Radha and Her sakhis. They said, “I am the salt ocean. I am the ocean of milk. I am the Amara-dirghika. I am the river Shona. I am the Sindhu. I am the Tamraparni. I am Pushkara. I am the river Sarasvati. And we are the Godavari, Yamuna, Reva and the triveni of Prayaga. Just see our waters!”

After taking a purifying bath, Sri Krishna arrogantly challenged the gopis saying, “Bho, bho sakhis! I have produced a pond containing all the holy places, whereas you gopis have not done any pious acts to please Brahmaji”

Sri Radha said boldly, “I must create an even more beautiful pond than Krishna’s. Sakhis! Get to work!” In a ditch created by the hooves of the huge asura, the gopis started digging out a kunda with their golden kankana, bangles. Within an hour, the expert sakhis manifested a most majestic and beautiful divine kunda.

Completely astonished at their feat, Sri Krishna said, “O Priyaji! You and Your sakhis can fill Your lake with water from mine.”

“NO! NO! NO! Impossible”, said Radharani, “We cannot take Your water which is contaminated with the horrendous sin of killing a cow. I have unlimited sakhis who can easily bring billions of pots of pure water from Manasi Ganga. And thus the fame of My kunda will be unequalled!”

Bhagavan Sri Krishna then gestured to a celestial representative of all the holy places there. He arose from Krishna kunda, bowed to Vrshabhanunandini, and prayed to Swamini Radha with folded palms and tear-filled eyes:

“O Devi! Brahmaji, Shivaji and Lakshmi can never understand the fathomless depth of Your glories. Only Sri Krishna knows, and thus He humbly washes away Your perspiration when You are tired. And Krishna always thrills in delight whenever He gets the chance to wash Your beautiful lotus feet and fasten Your ankle bells. In fact, Shyama feels supremely fortunate simply by satisfying the tips the toes of Your lotus feet.

“It is on Krishna’s order that we have immediately come to live in this lake, created by one stroke of Krishna’s heel. Alas! The tree of our cherished desire will only bear fruit if You are pleased and grant us Your merciful glance!”

Sri Radha: “Well, then what do you want?”

In unison, all the sacred places said, “Our lives will be successful if we can come and fill the wonderful lake You have manifested. This is the only benediction we desire.”

With a side-long glance toward Shyama, Srimati Radharani replied to the sacred celestials: “Oh, certainly, please come!” Thus all the holy rivers and lakes in Sri Shyama-kunda forcibly broke through its boundary walls [at the Sangam} and swiftly filled Sri Radha-kunda with their waters.”

Sri Hari: “O Priyatama! On earth and throughout the universe, Your beautiful sweet Radha-kunda will be supremely more famous than Mine! Every day I will come here to bathe and enjoy water pastimes with You and all My preyasis. Indeed, Your beautiful Sri Kunda is as dear to Me as You!”

Srimati Radharani: “O Prana Priyatama! Even if You vanquish hundreds of Aristas here, I will still come and bathe every day in Your Krishna Kunda. Furthermore, I proclaim that anyone who bathes or lives here will attain intense devotion for My Sri Kunda, and become very dear to Me.”

On that full moon night [Caitra Purnima] in Radha Kunda, Sri Krishna and the Vraja-gopis enjoyed a maha rasa dance on the banks of Radha-kunda. When the Krishna cloud combined with the Radha lightning strike, their playful lilas flooded the three worlds with happiness,

krishna ambudah maha rasa harsha varsha, sri radhika pravara vidyud, trai lokya madhya vitati krta divya kirti!

Caitra Purnima Appearance Night of Radha-kunda ki jai! Jaya Jaya Sri Radhe!

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Radha Kunda and Sri Ananta Dasa Babaji Maharaja

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

For fifty years, the sweet glories of Sri Radha-kunda and the service of Srimati Radharani in manjari-bhava have been broadcast worldwide by the esteemed Gaudiya Vaisnava acarya, Srila Ananta Dasa Babaji Maharaja.

Here are some transcendental gems from the fathomless ocean of Babaji Maharaja’s intense love for his Thakuraji, Sri Sri Radha Vrndavanacandra, and his eternally most beloved Sri Radha-kunda contained in his commentaries on the books mentioned below.

May all bhaktas relish these elegant realizations with the utmost taste, humility and gratitude.

Nitya-lila pravista 108, Sri Sri Ananta Dasa Babaji Maharaja ki jai!

Sri Ananta Dasa Babaji Maharaja

Priyaji’s Sarasi [Radha-kunda] is most dear to those whose everything is the service of Sri Radhika’s lotus feet. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15 p.)

Radha-kunda and Shyama-kunda will be merciful to anyone who sincerely surrenders to Radha-kunda. And They will bless such a soul by showing them Their pastimes in Radha-kunda. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 52 p.)

For the sake of Her daily bath at Manasa Pavana Ghata, Srimati Radharani personally ornaments Sri Shyama-kunda with a row of stairs leading into Syama-kunda. (Vraja Vilasa Stava  58 p.)

Radha-kunda and Shyama-kunda are non-different from Sri Sri Radha-Madhava. As Sri Krishna embraces His Priyaji with the greatest love, similarly Sri Shyama-kunda gently caresses Sri Radha-kunda at the Sangama which is non-different from Srimati Radharani. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 58 p.)

The attraction to reside at Sri Radha-kunda awakens within the heart of one who is totally fixed on Sri Radha’s lotus feet. In life or in death, such a person will not know anything but Radha’s lotus feet. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 58 p.)

Srimati Radharani carefully bathes in Shyama-kunda every day and thus attains the pinnacle of bliss. Sri Radha loves Shyama-kunda as much as She loves Shyama. (Sri Visakhanandada Stotram 26 p.)

Sri Radha-kunda is the limitlessly beautiful crown jewel of Vraja, Vraja Mukuta Mani. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15)

The most fortunate souls can live on the banks of Sri Radha-kunda, and that fortune is Radharani’s personal mercy upon them. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15 )

The water that fills Radha-kunda and Shyama-kunda is not actually water, it is the splendid spiritual erotic flavour of Radha-Madhava’a intimate pastimes! (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15 p.)

The desire vine of love for Krishna will blossom and bear the fruits of Radha’s service, for even ignorant and unqualified persons who performs some service at Radha-kunda in the form of bathing, living here, seeing or touching Radha-kunda. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15)

O Radha, Because Radha-kunda is Your dearmost place, I will surely receive Your mercy by taking shelter of Radha-kunda! Surely one day Your loving pastimes in Radha-kunda will appear before the spiritualized eyes of an unfortunate soul like me! (Vilapa Kusumanjali 97)

Without making any distinction between who’s qualified or not, Sri Radha-kunda is so very merciful that She blesses everyone with the treasure of Krishna prema, whether they do or don’t do any Radha-Krishna bhajan here in Radha-kunda. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 98)

Shyama-kunda Radha-kunda ki jai! Jaya Jaya Sri Radhe!

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Radha-kunda: Two Appearance Days

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

According to our Gaudiya Vaisnava acaryas, 5,000 years ago, Bhagavan Sri Krishna originally manifested Radha-Syama Kundas on Caitra Purnima. For Gaudiya Vaisnavas, Karttika Bahulastami is the sacred day that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu unveiled the hidden location of Radha Kunda.

Appearance Day

As far as we know, the only Gaudiya Vaisnava pramana or evidence to establish the appearance day of Radha Kunda comes from Sri Jiva Goswamipada’s commentary on Srimad Bhagavatam (10.45.3): “ON CAITRA PURNIMA (March-April) Bhagavan Sri Krishna killed Aristasura at midnight and manifested Shyama-kunda.”

Both the appearance and discovery days of Radha Kunda are equally sacred and worshipable. Because they are always eager to take advantage of every possible opportunity to serve and worship Srimati Radharani, Gaudiya Vaisnavas bathe every year in Radha Kunda at midnight on Caitra Purnima to celebrate the appearance, and also in Karttika on the day of Bahulastami.

Besides being beautiful, Caitra Purnima is the first Purnima of the Hindu new year. One can only imagine how incredibly beautiful, romantic and blissful it was on that magical full moon night five millenniums ago when Madhuri-Madhava manifested Radha-Syama Kundas, and enjoyed a festive rasa dance on the banks! Jai Radhe!

** Note: In 2019, the Chaitra Purnima Tithi bathing is at midnight 18th April.

DISCOVERY DAY

Bhakti-ratnakara and Chaitanya-caritamrita (Madhya chapter 18) say that Mahaprabhu stayed in Vraja Mandala for about 4 months (September-December). Sri Caitanyadeva first came to Mathura (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.17.155); then Gaurahari toured the 12 forests of Vrndavana (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.17.193); and He arrived in Arita Grama (Radha Kunda) on Karttika Bahulastami when MAHAPRABHU DISCOVERED RADHA KUNDA (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.18.1-13).

Since then, the old Vrajavasi sadhus and Gaudiya saints say that Gaudiya Vaisnavas have been especially honoring Mahaprabhu’s discovery of Radha Kunda by bathing in Radha Kunda on Bahulastami in Karttika. The Goswamis also endorse this practice.

Sri Rupa Goswamipada in Mathura Mahatmyam (verse 439, 441) and Sri Sanatama Goswamipada in Hari Bhakti Vilasa (16.207, 210) both quote the Padma Purana, Karttika mahatmyam which says: “Anyone who BATHES ON THE DAY of Bahulastami in Radha-kunda becomes very dear to Bhagavan Sri Hari, karttike- bahulastamyam, tatra -snatva -haripriya.”

There is no real conflict or problem with having two appearance days because in spiritual matters everything is perfectly included within the complete whole, Sri Krishna. All the different spiritual truths, practices and places exist together in perfect harmony vibrating beautifully for the happiness of Sri Sri Radha and Krishna.

SUMMARY: Thus for the last five-hundred years, Gaudiya Vaisnavas have been worshiping and bathing in Radha Kunda to celebrate both these wonderful days!

In other words, there are two appearance days:

1) To the eyes of Radha Govinda and all the sakhis when they manifested it 5,000 years ago;

2) To the eyes of Caitanya Mahaprabhu when He found it in the middle of a field 500 years ago.

Karttika Bahulastami ki jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

Chaitra Purnima Radha-kunda Appearance ki jai!

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Sri Krishna and Acaryas Praise Radha Kunda

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

In the Puranas, Bhagavan Sri Hari says: “O Priyaji! May Your Radha-kunda become even more world-renowned than My Syama-kunda! I will always bathe here and play in Your waters, because, O Radha, Your kunda is as dear to Me as You are.

“Radha replies, ‘I will bathe daily in Syama -kunda even though You may kill hundreds of Arista demons here. In the future, anyone who has intense devotion for Syama-kunda, where You silenced Aristasura, and who bathes or resides here will surely become very dear to Me.’

“After bathing, Radha-Krishna relish a Maha Rasa on the banks of Radha Kunda to drench everyone in a shower of bliss.”

rasot -savam -prakurute -sma -ca -tatra ratrau,
krishnambudah -krta -maha -rasa -harsa -varsah
(Srimad Bhagavatam 10.36.16 tika, Sri Visvanatha Cakravartipada)

Sri Rupa Gosvami:

Paurnamasi says, “O Sri Madhava, I have a request! If someone gives up one’s material life to live in a kutira on the bank of Radha-kunda, and then deeply hankers for the direct service of You and Your beloved Radhika, then please, Sri Krishna, quickly fulfill that devotee’s desires.”

radha-kunda-kutira-vasatis, -tyaktanya -karma -janah
sevas -eva -samaksam –atra, yuvayor -yah -kartum -utkanthate

“Krishna replies: “Yes, Bhagavati Purnamasi, let it be, tathastu!” (Dan -Keli -Kaumudi 532-533)

Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami:

“O mind, always remember Priya-sarah (Radha-kunda) and Girindrau (Giriraja Baba) as two transcendental abodes, the mere sight of which bestows the sweetest divine love for Radha Govinda Yugala. (Manah Siksha 9)

“O blooming lotus-eyed girl (Rādhe)! When my eyes directly saw Your pond (Radha-kunda), which is filled with sweet water and lotus flowers surrounded by blissfully humming bees, then I really got the desire to taste the nectar of Your service!” (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15)

“O Lolākṣi (restless eyed girl)! You and Your beloved always stay at Radha-kunda. Here only I will live and here alone I will stay!”

SVA KUṆḌAṀ TAVA LOLĀKṢI, SAPRIYĀYĀḤ SADĀSPADAM,
ATRAIVA MAMA SAṀVĀSA, IHAIVA MAMA SAṀSTHITIḤ (Vilapa Kusumanjali 97)

“By the grace of beautiful Radha-kunda, which is my only shelter, the desire-vine of love for Krishna that bears the flowers of service to my Ishvari Radhika instantly sprouts in the heart of anyone who performs devotional service there.

API JANA IHA KAŚCID, YASYA SEVĀ PRASĀDAIḤ
PRAṆAYA SURALATĀ SYĀT, TASYA GOṢṬHENDRA SŪNOḤ
SAPADI KILA MAD ĪŚĀ, DĀSYA PUṢPA PRAŚASYĀS
TAD ATI SURABHI RĀDHĀ, KUṆḌAM EVĀŚRAYO ME   (Radha-kunda Astakam 5)

O beautiful lake (Radha-kunda)! My Ishvari Radha always plays erotic games in you with Her beloved Krishna. If you are dearer to Them than the dearest, then please show me my Ishvari, who is my very life!

HE SRI SAROVARA SADĀ TVAYI SĀ MAD ĪŚĀ
PREṢṬHENA SĀRDHAM IHA KHELATI KĀMA RAṄGAIḤ
TVAṀ CET PRIYĀT PRIYAM ATĪVA TAYOR ITĪMĀṀ
HA DARŚAYĀDYA KṚPAYĀ MAMA JĪVITAṀ TĀM (Vilapa Kusumanjali 98)

My only shelter is that very fragrant, dear and beautiful Radha-kunda, which instantly makes a desire-tree of Krishna prema sprout in the land of the heart of anyone who bathes there, even though this is rarely attained by Krishna’s beloveds in Vrajabhumi.

VRAJABHUVI MURAŚATROḤ, PREYASĪNĀṀ NIKĀMAIR
ASULABHAM API TŪRṆAṀ,   PREMA KALPA DRUMAṀ TVAM
JANAYATI HṚDI BHŪMAU, SNĀTUR UCCAIḤ PRIYAṀ YAT
TAD ATI SURABHI RĀDHĀ, KUṆḌAM EVĀŚRAYO ME (Radha-kunda Astakam 2)

“Vrndavana is a higher transcendental pastime realm than Mathura because it features Radha -Rasa -Bihari’s -rasa-lila. But Giri-Govardhana is even higher because Govinda touches Giriraja with His gorgeous hand.”

“Among all holy abodes, however, Radha-kunda is the best of all because it’s inundated by the nectar stream of Gokulapati’s love. Thus, who will not serve this transcendental lake of divine love located near Govardhana Hill?” (Govardhanasraya Dasaka 1)

“Every day with great care, Srimati Radharani happily bathes in Syama-kunda, which overflows with the honey oozing from Krishna’s lotus feet.” (Visakhanandabhidha Stotra 26)

“O Sri Rupa Manjari! If Yuva Yugala Radha-Krishna, who inspire the world with the gift of Their ambrosial mercy, and who saturate everyone with the fragrance of Their flowering attributes, do not give Their mercy to me, then, O Sakhi, will you please arrange for me to live forever at Sri Radha-kunda!” (Prarthanasraya-caturdasaka 3)

Eating only the yogurt and fruits of Vraja, I will always reside in a lovely grove on the bank of Vṛndāvaneśvarī’s lake Sri Radha-kunda, at the base of Girirāja Govardhana. I will continually glorify Sri Radhika and Krishna, love Them and remember Their enchanting lotus feet. (Sri Prarthanashraya Chaturdasakam v.13)

On summer evenings, Sri Radhika blissfully plays with Bakari Krishna and Her girlfriends in Her own lake, which is filled with breezes cooled by rows of spotless lotus flowers. O, when will Radhika bathe me in Her service? (Sri Radhikastakam 8)

In summer evenings, Sri Radha eagerly plays in the water of Radha-kunda with Her sakhis. When will I serve Radha at that time by filling a syringe with water from Her beloved lake Radha-kunda so She can sprinkle Govinda who is expert in jala-keli.(Utkantha Dasakam 8)

Sri Jiva Goswamipada:

“The most romantic transcendental pair, Radha Govinda, forever sport and play in Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda.

“I believe that the sumptuous divine fragrance wafting in the air around the kundas arises from Radha Govinda’s divinely amorous embraces.

“The gentle winds are Their lovely murmurs and trembles.

“And the water in Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda is sweet nectar churned from the melting of Their amorous delights.” (Gopala Campu, I.13-15)

Sri Krishna Dasa Kaviraja:

“Radha-kunda has such captivatingly wonderful and unlimited spiritual qualities that Radha-kunda is as dear to Sri Hari as Sri Radha Herself. The most handsome and radiant romantic, Madhavendu Sri Krishna, always enjoys playful intimacies in Radha-kunda. (Govinda-lilamrta chapter 7)

“Simply by a single snana in sacred Radha-kunda, one will secure a sweet love for Syama similar to Srimati’s.”
premasmin bata radhikeva labhate, yasmin sakrt snana-krt

“As soon as Krishna sees Radha-kunda, His heart thrills with joy, and He becomes very eager to meet His beloved Priyaji.”

priya-kundam -drstva -mudita-hrdayo,
priya-prapty-utkantha. (Govinda-lilamrta 7.102-103)

“Vrnda: Hari is in the forest around Radha-kunda.
Radhika: What is Hari doing?
Vrnda: Hari’s learning dance.
Radhika: Who’s teaching Hari?
Vrnda: O Radhika, You won’t believe it. But Hari’s teacher is actually the reflection of Your lovely form, that Syama sees appearing like a skillful dancer in every tree, creeper and direction to make Hari dance along with it” (Govinda-lilamrta 8.77)

“Every day without fail, Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami takes three baths in Radha-kunda.” (Caitanya-caritamrta 1.10.101)
tina –sandhya -radha -kunde -apatita -snana

“Just as Srimati Radharani is most dear to Sri Krishna, Radha-kunda is also dear to Krishna. Among all the sakhis, Srimati is the supremely dearest of Damodara.” (Caitanya-caritamrta 2.8.99/Padma P.)

Sri Narahari Cakravarti Thakura:

“Only by the grace of Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami may one live at Radha-kunda.” (Bhakti-ratnakara chapter 5)

Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti:

“Although always longing to meet and play together, Radha Govinda forever remain apart. But in Their forms as Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda, They eternally unite at the Sangam to splash one another with the nectar sweetness of Their love.

“How do the divine Radha and Krishna kundas appear? What I think is that as soon as Radha sees Her Raman, Radha melts in divine ecstasy to become Radha-kunda. In the same way, when Syama sees Sundari, Syama melts in divine ecstasy to become Syama-kunda.” (Vraja riti-cintamani 3.33-34)

“Limitlessly beautiful Sri Radha-kunda is filled with Radha Govinda Yugala’s topmost love. (VRC v. 39)

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati:

“Sri Guru has an eternal kunja on the shore of Sri Radha-kunda. There he binds Krishna by the power of his seva.” (BBT folio: Sri Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Amrta -Vani 53)

“As manjaris of Sri Radha, we must constantly live on the banks of Radha-kunda. Only the most fortunate live in the most sanctified place of Sri Radha-kunda, and it is the only shelter for devotees in madhurya-rasa. (BBT folio: BST Amrta Vani Appendix)

“Only by Sri Radha’s mercy can one reside eternally on the banks of Radha-kunda.” (BBT folio: Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Vaibhava (III.12)

“The topmost principle in the spiritual kingdom is to BATHE IN SRI RADHA KUNDA.” (BBT folio: BST Amrta Vani Appendix)

Srila Prabhupada:

Forty-three years ago, in 1976, a disciple, Acyutananda Swami, asked, “Srila Prabhupada, our devotees are also wearing Radha-kunda tilaka. Is that ok?”

Srila Prabhupada replied, “There is no harm in wearing Radha-kunda tilaka.” (Folio: 760816rc.bom)

Radhika Kunda Sacred Bath Mantra:

Gaur-Govinda Archana Smarana Paddhati (33) says one should chant this mantra before lovingly and respectfully bathing in the divine holy waters of Sri Radhika-kunda (Radha-kunda):

radhika –sama –saubhagya, sarva -tirtha-pravandita
prasida –radhika -kunda, snami -te -salile -subhe

“O Sri Radhika-kunda! You are most fortunate because You are like Srimati Radhika Herself.
“O Radhika-kunda, You are the most praiseworthy of all holy places.
I am now bathing in Your divine prema-filled water, so please give me Your mercy.”

Syama -kunda -Radha-kunda -ki -jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

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Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Praises Radha Kunda

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

500 hundred years ago, Sriman Mahaprabhu unveiled the hidden location of Radha-kunda, manifested 5,000 years ago by Radha-Krishna. While bathing in two tiny pools of water He discovered in some paddy fields, Sri Caitanya became overwhelmed in prema. Then Gaurahari danced in bliss on the banks of Radha-kunda while meditating upon Radha-Madhava’s pastimes at Radha Kunda, premavista -hana -tire, nrtya -kare -kunda –lila -sanariya. (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.18.13)

Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu said:

  1. Radha-kunda is very dear to Sri Krishna because it is very dear to Radha,
    taiche –radha –kunda -priya -priyara -sarasi (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.18.7)

 

  1. In Radha-kunda, Krishna eternally associates with Radhika enjoying water sports and other rapturous pastimes on Her banks, yei –kunde -nitya –krishna –radhikara –sange, jale –jala –keli –kare, tire –rasa –range. (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.18.9)

 

  1. Sri Krishna gives ecstatic love exactly like that of Radha to whoever BATHES EVEN ONCE in Radha-kunda,
    sei –kunde –eka –bara –yei –kore –snana, tare –radha –sama –prema –krishna –kore –dana. (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.18.10)

 

  1. The glorious sweetness Radha-kunda resembles Radha’s sweet glories,
    kundera –madhuri –yena –radhara –madhurima,
    kundera –mahima –yena –radhara -mahima. (Caitanya Caritamrita 2.18.11)

Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu ki jai Radha Kunda Dhama ki jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

 

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Sweet Radha-kunda by Srila Prabhupada 

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

Forty years ago, in Mayapura, West Bengal, Srila Prabhupada wrote the following words in glorification of Sri Radha-kunda. Manifesting as his comments to Srila Rupa Goswamipada’s Upadesamrta, these ambrosial words gushed out of Prabhupada’s heart like a waterfall to inundate the desert dry hearts of thirsty souls hankering for love divine.

Please read them again and again. After sometime, they will magically move your mind and then captivate your heart. And if Kundesvari -Radha glances upon you, you may find yourself living here someday serving the eternal sweethearts of your soul—Radha-Govinda -Yugala.

What is Radha-kunda?

Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda, situated at Govardhana Hill in Sri Vrndavana Dhama, are two beautiful love-filled lakes surrounded by kunjas, forests, and play grounds, wherein Sri Sri Radha and Krishna pass five hours every single day (1030am-330pm). The beautiful Divine Couple and the Vraja gopis enjoy a variety of ecstatic confidential pastimes here.

5, 000 years ago, these divine lakes of love were created by Sri Krishna, Srimati Radharani and the gopis at midnight on Caitra Purnima. For Gaudiya Vaisnavas, Radha Kunda is the topmost place of Radha-Krishna’s eternal pastimes, and the best place in Vrndavana to live and practice Krishna bhakti bhajan.

Featured here at Radha Kunda are small replica temples of tall the major Goswami temples in Vrndavana i.e. Madan-mohana, Govindaji, Gopinatha, Radha—Raman, Syama, Gokulananda, Damodara, Giridhari and Vinoda. There are samadhis and bhajana-kutiras of the Goswamis—Sanatana, Bhatta and Dasa Raghunatha, Sri Jiva, Gopala Bhatta, Lokanatha, Krishnadasa Kaviraja, Narahari Sarkara, Srinivasa Acarya and Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura.

Sri Krishna and the sastras proclaim that the beautiful transcendental waters of Radha-kunda are non-different from Radharani, and can easily give Radha-Krishna prema to anyone bathing, seeing, serving or worshiping here.

While commenting on Sri Rupa Goswamipada’s wonderful book of bhakti yoga sadhana titled “Upadesamrta”, Srila Prabhupada personally praises Radha Kunda with the following amazing statements:

Radha Kunda Glories

“There is no limit to the glory of Sri Radha-kunda.” (Upadesamrta v.11 pur.)

“The importance of Radha-kunda cannot be realized by other Vaisnava sampradayas. Radha-kunda is mainly worshipped by the Gaudiya Vaisnavas.” (Upadesamrta v.9 pur.)

“Radha-kunda is very rarely attained, even by great personalities fully engaged in devotional service.” (Upadesamrta v.11 pur.)

“Sri Radha-kunda, is the most exalted place.” (Upadesamrta v. 10 pur.)

“Radha-kunda is so exalted because it belongs to Srimati Radharani, who is the most beloved object of Sri Krishna” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

“Krishna’s love for Radha-kunda and Srimati Radharani is the same in all respects.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

“Radha-kunda is superior to all [places of Krishna’s pastimes] because there love of Krishna overflows.” (Upadesamrta v 9 pur).

Radha-kunda is the site of many memories of the eternal loving affairs between Krishna and Radharani, rati-vilasa” (Upadesamrta v.9 pur).

“Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura says that Sri Radha-kunda is the most select place for those interested in advancing their devotional service in the wake of the lady friends (sakhis) and confidential serving maids (manjaris) of Srimati Radharani.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

Serving Radha Kunda

“By serving Radha-kunda, one can get an opportunity to become an assistant of Srimati Radharani under the eternal guidance of the gopis.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

Bathing in Radha Kunda

“A devotee will at once develop pure love of Krishna in the wake of the gopis if he once takes a bath in Radha-kunda.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

Comment: Snana or bathing means complete immersion of one’s full body in the prema-filled waters of Radha Kunda (not water drops on one’s head)

“Srila Rupa Gosvami recommends that one should take a bath in the lake as many times as possible. This is a most important item in the execution of devotional service.” (Upadesamrta v.11 pur.)

“If, by great fortune, one gets an opportunity to come to Radha-kunda and bathe even once, he can develop his transcendental love for Krishna, exactly as the gopis did.” (Upadesamrta v.11 pur.)

“One should bathe there regularly and give up all material conceptions, taking shelter of Sri Radha and Her assistant gopis. If one is thus constantly engaged during his lifetime, after giving up the body he will return back to Godhead to serve Sri Radha in the same way as he contemplated during his life on the banks of Radha-kunda.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

Residing in Radha Kunda

“It is also recommended that one should live on the banks of Radha-kunda and should be absorbed in the loving service of the Krishna.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

“Srila Rupa Gosvami has given much stress to Radha-kunda because of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s desire to find it. Who, then, would give up Radha-kunda and try to reside elsewhere? No person with transcendental intelligence would do so.” (Upadesamrta v. 9 pur.)

“Everyone interested in Krishna consciousness should ultimately take shelter of Radha-kunda and execute devotional service there throughout one’s life. This is the conclusion of Rupa Gosvami in the tenth verse of Upadesamrta.” (v. 10 pur.)

“Living entities who are eager to return home to Goloka Vrndavana, by means of attaining their spiritual bodies (siddha-deha), should live at Radha-kunda, take shelter of the confidential serving maids of Sri Radha, and under their direction engage constantly in Radha’s service.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

“Raghunatha dasa Gosvami showed how to live in Radha-kunda. Sankhya-purvaka-nama-gana-natibhih kala-vasani-krtau. Not only did Raghunatha dasa count the holy names, but he was offering obeisances so many hundred times [in front of his kutir while remembering Radha-Krishna and Vaisnava] (folio: 760816.rc.bom)

Books & Radha Kunda

“In my last meeting with Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati in Radha Kunda, he advised me to print some [spiritual] books if I get money. I took it very seriously and by His grace we have now published many translations.” (folio: SPLetter 15/11/76)

Wearing Radha Kunda Tilaka

Three months before leaving this world, Srila Prabhupada said, “There is no harm in wearing Radha-kunda tilaka, but devotees should understand what is Radha-kunda and how to deal with Radha-kunda.” (folio: 760816R1.BOM)

Final Words on Radha Kunda

“The conclusion is that to live on the banks of the Radha-kunda, and to bathe there daily constitute the highest perfection of devotional service.” (Upadesamrtav.11 pur.)

“If one is thus constantly engaged during his lifetime, after giving up the body he will return back to Godhead to serve Sri Radha in the same way as he contemplated during his life on the banks of Radha-kunda.” (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

On November 10, 1977, just four days before Srila Prabhupada left this planet to enter the eternal pastimes of Sri Sri Radha-Govinda, Srila Prabhupada told his disciples to bathe in Radha-kunda on his behalf.

Srila Prabhupada said, “So you [my disciples] will take bath in Radha-kunda on my behalf.” (folio: 771110R3.VRN)

Summary Glories of Radha Kunda

In his illuminations above, Srila Prabhupada makes four supremely significant points:

1) First, Srila Prabhupada glorifies the supreme position of Radha-kunda and Srimati Radharani. And then His Divine Grace says:

2) We should serve Radha Kunda.

3) We should bathe daily in Radha-kunda.

4) We should live in Radha-kunda.

Sri Shyama-kunda Radha-kunda ki jai!

Sri Radha Kunda ki jai! Srila Prabhupada ki jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

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Where to Live—Radha Kunda or Vrindavana?

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

Some extremely fortunate Gaudiya Vaisnavas live in either Radha-kunda or Vrindavana. Quoting Srila Prabhupada and the Gaudiya Vaisnava acaryas, we’ll answer the question: “Which is the best place practice bhakti sadhana—Radha-kunda or Vrindavana?”

Although there are different views on this, all Gaudiya Vaisnavas must accept of conclusions of our sastras. Srila Prabhupada confirms saying, “To follow Caitanya Mahaprabhu means following the six Goswamis [books], because the six Goswamis were directly instructed by Mahaprabhu to spread this [Krishna consciousness] movement.” (folio 730105ND.BOM)

“Our goal is to become fully Krishna conscious. To attain this goal, we follow the six original Gosvamis [i.e. Sri Rupa, Sanatana, Bhatta Raghunatha, Sri Jiva, Gopala Bhatta, Dasa Raghunatha].” (folio: BTG april/1974 post SP)

Each chapter of Caitanya-caritamrta, ends with the sloka: “The lotus feet of Sri Rupa and Raghunatha [Dasa Goswami] are my only hope and aspiration, sri -rupa -raghunatha -pade vara -asha.”

Sri Narottama Dasa Thakura (Prarthana) prays, “When will I understand Radha-Krishna’s love by eagerly following the footsteps of Sri Rupa and Sri Raghunatha?”

rupa -raghunatha -pade, hoibe –akuti,
kabe -hama -bujhabo, se -jugala -piriti?

The immortal words of Srila Prabhupada and the six Gosvamis will now highlight the preeminent position of Radha-kunda as the best place of residence for Gaudiya Vaisnavas.

Sri Rupa Gosvami:

  1. Mathura is superior to Vaikuntha because Krishna appears there. Better than Mathura is Vrndavana where Krishna dances the rasa-lila. Better than Vrindavana is Govardhana Hill. And best of all is Radha-kunda because it overflows with Krishna prema -amrta. Therefore, anyone who is intelligent will live at Radha-kunda! (Upadesamrta v. 9)
  2. Anyone who is fortunate will take shelter and live at Radha-kunda.” (Upadesamrta v. 10)

Raghunatha Dasa Goswami:

  1. The delightful forest of Vrndavana— site of the nectar-filled Rasa-dance— beautiful Govardhana Hill, and all other holy places are not even equal to one particle of one atom of Sri Radha-kunda! I take shelter of divine Radha-kunda which is dearer to Mukunda than His own breath. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 53)
  2. O restless-eyed Radhika! You and Your beloved Krishna always stay in Radha-kunda. Thus I vow that here only I will live and here only I will stay! (Vilapa Kusumanjali 98).
  3. O sakhi Sri Rupa Manjari! Please arrange for me to always stay in Radha-kunda. (Stavavali, IV. 3)

Srila Prabhupada:

  1. Sri Rupa Goswamipada has given much stress to Radha-kunda, so who would give up Radha-kunda and try to reside elsewhere? No person with transcendental intelligence would do so. (Upadesamrta v. 9 pur.)
  2. One should live at Radha-kunda, take shelter of the confidential serving maids [the manjaris] of Sri Radha, and under their direction engage constantly in Radharani’s service. (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)
  3. If one is thus constantly engaged during his lifetime, after giving up the body he will return back to Godhead to serve Sri Radha in the same way as he contemplated during his life on the banks of Radha-kunda.

The conclusion is that to live on the banks of the Radha-kunda and TO BATHE THERE DAILY constitute the highest perfection of devotional service. Thus there is no limit to the glory of Sri Radha Kunda. (Upadesamrta v. 11 pur.)

Srila Prabhupada ki jai! Radha-kunda ki jai!

Of course, it is a great fortune to live in any one of the four Gaudiya Vaisnava transcendental dhamas i.e. Radha-kunda, Vrndavana, Jagannatha Puri and Navadvipa. However, the sastras specifically describe the unique and incredible benefits of living in and practicing bhakti sadhana in Sri Vraja Dhama. Srila Prabhupada himself said “Vrndavana is my home”, according to various biographies found in the BBT Folio Archives.

It is also clearly seen in sastras and in the personal lives of the six Gosvamis that among all the holy places in the universe, Radha-kunda is the most powerful, beneficial, and madhurya rasa-filled sacred place to reside and do Krishna bhajan. In fact, five of the six Gosvamis lived in Vrndavana, and one, Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami, did Radha-Govinda Yugala bhajan in Radha-kunda for about fifty-years.

Thus, to quickly attain spiritual perfection and Sri Sri Radha-Krishna’s eternal loving service, one should live in and practice bhakti sadhana in Sri Radha-kunda Dhama.

Jai Jai Sri Radhe! Radha-kunda vasa ki jai!

Six Goswamis ki jai! Srila Prabhupada ki jai!

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20 Ways To Love Krishna

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

There are twenty amazing and intimate ways to express your devotion, dependence and attachment to your Priya Thakuraji i.e. beloved transcendental murti form of Bhagavan Sri Krishna. Of Sri Rupa Goswamipada’s sixty-four limbs of bhakti sadhana, ten forms of bhakti (#23-42) directly involve Sri Thakuraji and His worshipers—us!

Upon reading this description you will discover that our beautiful, sweet, charming and playful master, Sri Krishna, not only likes formal worship, but Syama also likes the wild frantic dancing of His bhaktas.

The term Sri -Thakuraji means one’s favorite and beloved murti or Deity (Devata) of Sri Krishna i.e. Bankebihari, Radha-Vallabha, Radha-Syama or Radha Ramana.

By citing Srimad -Bhagavatam and other Puranas, Sri Rupa Goswamipada reveals twenty different ways to please and personally interact with Radha and Krishna in their most beautiful, merciful, and accessible transcendental forms.

After listing each item, Sri -Rupa mentions the benefits attained by these loving exchanges with Bhagavan Sri Krishna. The benefits and their sources from Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu are in brackets. By engaging in these ways with Sri -Thakuraji, you will: conquer maya, and become free from disease, sin and rebirth (1.2.125-6, 129); attain liberation to Vaikuntha (1.2.139); and fulfil all your desires (1.2.165).

20 WAYS TO LOVE KRISHNA

1 Accept Sri Thakuraji’s -Nirmalya (1.2.125)

Eating, smelling, touching and wearing Krishna’s divine food, perfumes, flower malas and celestial clothing.

2 Dance Frantically Before Sri Thakuraji (agre- tandavam: (1.2.128)

3 Dandavats -To Sri Thakuraji (1.2.129)

4 Stand Up To Greet Sri Thakuraji (1.2.130)

5 Follow Sri -Thakuraji In Procession (1.2.131)

6 Visit Sri -Thakuraji’s Sacred Places (1.2.132)

(i.e. mandira, Vrndavana, Navadvipa etc.)

7 Parikrama (1.2.135)

(Sri -Thakuraji’s -murti or temple four times)

8 Worship Sri Thakuraji “Deity Worship” (1.2.137)

(bathing, dressing, feeding)

9 Paricarya -Seva to Sri -Thakuraji (1.2.140)

(wave camara, ring bell, blow conch)

10 Gita, Solo Singing Bhajans for Sri -Thakuraji (1.2.144)

11 Sankirtana, Singing Loudly (1.2.145)

(Krishna’s names, qualities, pastimes)

12 Japa, Silently Utter Diksa -Mantras (1.2.149)

(before Sri -Thakuraji)

13 Vijnapti, Submissive Prayers (1.2.151)

(express your worthlessness, and submit your inner feelings towards Sri -Thakuraji while ever yearning for His personal service)

14 Stava -Patha (1.2.157-9)

(before Sri -Thakuraji, recite Bhagavad-gita; prayers of acaryas and mahajanas; and your spontaneous outpourings and heart’s compositions)

15 Naivedyam -Svado, Relish Maha -Prasada (1.2.160)

(honoring Sri -Thakuraji’s tulasi, grains, fruits etc.)

16 Padya -Svado, Drink Sri -Thakuraji’s -Caranamrta (1.2.161)

17 Dhupa -Saurabhyam (1.2.162)

(smelling Sri -Thakuraji’s incense, flowers, malas, perfumes)

18 Sri -Murti -Sparsanam (1.2.165)

(touching Sri -Thakuraji if one is qualified)

19 Sri -Murti -Darsanam (1.2.166)

(looking at your Priya -Sri -Thakuraji, and being overwhelmed by feelings of love)

20 Aratrika -Darsanam (1.2.167)

(seeing Sri -Thakuraji’s -arati, festivals, and puja—bathing, dressing etc.)

Love your Thakuraji -ki jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

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Be Forever With Your Guru

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

Any sincere sadhaka can always be in association with one’s merciful Gurudeva, even if the Guru is far away or has entered Radha-Govinda’s nitya-vrndavana lila.

Simply by meditating on your divine master, you immediately establish a connection with him. In response to your thoughts and prayers, Sri Guru will send you his full blessings, guidance, power and love.

A sweet stream of spiritual energy will flow from Sri Guru to you, just as honey pours from one vessel to another. You will feel his mercy mellowing your mind, and taste the sweet bliss of his charming presence in your heart.

In the Yoga-sutras, Rishi Patanjali says you can control your vrittis (thought waves) by fixing your mind on one who has transcended human passions and attachments (vita-raga-visayam ca cittam).

So by thinking of your Guru or some liberated soul, or by looking at his picture, you will pacify your mind, purify your heart and empower your Harinama japa with increased concentration.

The Padma Purana (Uttara-khanda ch. 112 v. 9-29) says that the mind becomes pure by Sri Guru smarana: “Just by thinking of your Guru, you will obtain 1/100th portion of the priceless treasure of his Krishna bhakti.”

However, the ability to draw blessings from your beloved spiritual master depends on the degree of your faith, surrender and dedication to Sri Guru. When sincere sisyas meditate on Sri Guru, they will definitely feel the benign and blissful presence of Sri Guru in their hearts.

Once Srila Prabhupada said, “Even if I am in the spiritual world with Radha and Krishna, whenever you chant the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, you will immediately experience my presence right before you!”

Surrendered sisyas ki jai! Krpa-sakti murti Sri Guru ki jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!