Tag Archive for: Govardhana

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Worshiping Radha Kunda: Caitra Purnima & Bahulastami

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

How should we worship Radha-kunda on Her appearance day in Caitra Purnima (april), and on Karttika Bahulastami (october), the day Caitanya Mahaprabhu discovered Radha-kunda?

Sri Sanatana Goswami’s Hari Bhakti Vilasa, the lawbook (smrti) for the Gaudiya Vaisnava sampradaya, describes the observance of and worship details for Krishna, Rama, Nrsimha, Vamana, Visnu and Siva. It does not mention anything about observing or worshipping the appearance (avirbhava) days of Radharani, Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda or Advaita Acarya, what to speak about Radha-kunda.

Nevertheless, for all Gaudiya Vaisnavas these appearance days are supremely worshipable. They should be observed with grand celebrations of fasting, puja, worship, tirtha snana (Radha-kunda, Yamuna, Ganga), Hari-katha, kirtana, bhajans, Sri Harinama Sankirtana and sumptuous transcendental maha-prasadam!

But why are these most significant divine days not mentioned in Hari Bhakti Vilasa? Sri Sanatana Goswami produced this important law book by collecting references from all the authentic and ancient Vedic literatures, especially the Puranas. These sastras say very little or nothing about worshiping Srimati Radharani. And they say nothing at all about worshiping Caitanya and the Panca Tattva because they appeared here long after these sastras were written.

Thus over the last 500 years, the different lineages of the Gaudiya Vaisnava sampradaya have developed their own worship standards for observing these sacred appearance days.

How to observe Radha-kunda’s appearance and discovery days depends on one’s devotional inspiration and the instructions of Sri Guru.

Bhagavan Sri Krishna Himself, Vedic sastras i.e. Puranas, and our Gaudiya Vaisnava sastras all say that Radha-kunda is non-different from Srimati Radharani, which means SRI RADHA KUNDA IS SRIMATI RADHARANI!

So on Her appearance day in Caitra Purnima, one can worship Radha-kunda just like one observes Radhastami by:

-fasting until midnight;
-panca-amrta abhiseka;
-wonderful bhoga offering;
-astakams and prayers;
-Radha-Krishna katha;
-grand aratika;
-kirtan;
-kunda parikrama & Sri Harinama Sankirtana;
-snana—midnight moon light bath in Yugala’s prema-amrta;
-relish Radharani’s maha-prasadam!

Now that’s the proper way to observe the divine appearance of Vrndavanesvari Srimati Radharani in Her most merciful, compassionate, prema-giving, madhurya rasananda svarupa as SRI RADHA KUNDA!

Srimati Radharani ki jai! Caitra Purnima Radha-kunda appearance day ki jai!

Sridhama Vrndavana ki jai! Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

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Light on Radha-kunda and Bahulastami

Mahanidhi Madan Gopal Das

Since every pastime of Bhagavan Sri Krishna is eternal, at midnight on Chaitra Purnima, the first full moon of the Hindu new year, Sri Radha-kunda is appearing in some material universe right now before the amazed eyes of Radha Govinda Yugala and the nitya and sadhana siddha gopis of Bhauma Vrndavana.

Sri Sanatana Goswami proves that Chaitra Purnima (April 18th 2019), is the real and actual appearance day of Sri Radha-kunda in his tika (Srimad Bhagavatam 10.45.3): “Bhagavan Sri Krishna killed Arista on the full moon day of Caitra month when Krishna was eleven. Afterwards Radha-Krishna manifested Shyama-kunda and Radha-kunda.”

The Bahulastami Karttika Radha Kunda Bath

So what about Kattika month and the Bahulastami snana? Other than recommending daily or regular bathing in Radha-kunda, the six Goswamis also quote Puranas which prescribe daytime bathing in Radha-kunda on Karttika Bahulastami.

Vrajavasis say that on this day, Krishna tested the saintliness of a cow named Bahula, and thus the Puranas prescribe a holy dip in Radha-kunda on THIS DAY. Incidentally, the Vrindavana forest named Bahulavan is very close to Radha-kunda.

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.”

The Bahulastami MIDNIGHT Radha-kunda BATH is actually a major event for 50,000 or so barren North Indian married couples. In the hopes of attaining a child, they worship a North Indian fertility Devi named Ahouri Devi. The various rites and pujas culminate in a REQUIRED midnight bath in Radha-kunda.

Thus, it seems that over time, the Gaudiya sastric ordained DAYTIME Radha-kunda SNANA on Bahulastami merged with the barren grhasta’s midnight snana in Radha-kunda. This resulted in Gaudiya Vaisnavas thinking their midnight bath was and is a celebration of the appearance of Radha-kunda.

In closing, we include some excerpts from recent posts on this topic.

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.

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.

Thus, all Gaudiya Vaisnavas bathe every year in Radha Kunda at midnight on Caitra Purnima to celebrate Radha-kunda’s appearance. And they also bathe on the day of Karttika Bahulastami to celebrate the day Caitanya Mahaprabhu discovered this lupta tirtha, hidden most holy place.

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: Maybe not others, but for Gaudiya Vaisnavas there are two appearance days of Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda:

1) To the eyes of Radha Govinda and all the sakhis when They manifested Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda 5,000 years ago on Chaitra Purnima according to Gaudiya Vaisnava Mahajana Acarya, Sri Sanatana Goswamipada.

2) To the eyes of Caitanya Mahaprabhu when He found or discovered Radha-kunda and Syama-kunda in the middle of a field 500 years ago.

Karttika Bahulastami Snana ki jai! Chaitra Purnima Radha-kunda Appearance Snana ki jai! Jai Jai 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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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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Wonderful Radha Kunda part four

Mahanidhi Swami

 

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 Mahantaji of Radha-kunda, Srila Ananta Dasaji Maharaja.

 

What follows are a few of the gems collected from ocean of Babaji Maharaja’s deep love for Srimati Radharani and Sri Radha-kunda. May all the bhaktas relish these realizations with the utmost humility and gratitude.

 

Sri Ananta Dasaji 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 is sincerely and earnestly surrendered. And they will bless such a soul by showing him the pastimes that are taking place there. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 52 p.)

 

For the sake of Her daily bath at Manasa Pavana Ghata, Srimati personally decorated Sri Shyama-kunda with a flight of stairs. (VVS 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  lovingly embraces Sri Radha-kunda [at the Sangama] which is non-different from Srimati Radharani. (VVS 58 p.)

 

The attraction to reside at Sri Radha-kunda awakens within the heart of a person who is totally fixed on Sri Radha’s lotus feet. And in life or in death they don’t know anything but Radha’s lotus feet. (VVS 58 p.)

 

Srimati Radharani most 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 p.)

 

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 p.)

 

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

 

The desire vine of love for Kåñëa will blossom for even an ignorant and unqualified person who performs some service at Radha-kunda in the form of bathing, living there, seeing or touching Radha-kunda, and it will bear the fruits of Radha service. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15 p.)

 

O Radha, Because Radha-kunda is Your [Radha] dearmost place I will surely receive Your mercy by taking shelter of it! Surely one day Your loving pastimes in

this lake will appear before the spiritualised eyes of an unfortunate soul like me!” (Vilapa Kusumanjali 97 p.)

 

Without making any distinction between who is qualified and who is not, Sri Radha-kunda blesses everyone who performs some devotional service there with the treasure of love of God, even if they do not perform any sadhana bhajana. (Vilapa Kusumanjali 98 p.) Shyama-kunda Radha-kunda ki jai! Jaya Jaya Sri Radhe!

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Wonderful Radha Kunda part three

Mahanidhi Swami

 

Puranas Glorifies Radha-kunda

Sri Hari said: “O Priyatama Radha! Dearest One! May Your Radha-kunda be even more world-renowned than than My Shyama-kunda! Here I will always bathe and play in the water, because Radha-kunda is as dear to Me as You are.

proce hariḥpriyatame tava kuṇḍam etat, mat kuṇḍato’pi mahimādhikam astu loke

atraiva me salila kelir ihaiva nityaṁ, snānaṁyathātvam asi tadvad idam saro me !”`

“Radha replied: “I will also come to bathe in Your Shyama-kunda even though You may kill hundreds of Ariṣṭa demons here. In the future, anyone who has intense devotion for Shyama-kunda, which is on the spot where You chastised Ariṣṭāsura, and who bathes or resides here is sure to become very dear to Me.’

 

“That night Ghanashyama initiated a rasa utsava at Radha-kunda enjoying the Maha-Rasa dance which brought a torential downpour of joy, rāsotsavaṁprakurute sma ca tatra rātrau, kṛṣṇāmbudaḥkṛta-mahā-rasa-harṣa-varṣaḥ(SB 10.36.16 Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti quoting Puranas)

Sri Rupa Gosvami

Paurnamasi said, O Madhava, I have a request!

If someone leaves all material activities to live in a kutira on the bank of Radha-kunda while deeply yearning to directly serve the Youthful Couple, then please make the tree of that devotee’s aspirations bear fruit very soon.

Radha-kunda-kuṭīra-vasatis tyaktānya-karmājanaḥ

sevām eva samakṣam atra yuvayor yaḥkartum utkaṇṭhate

Krishna replied: Yes, let it be so, bhagavati, tathastu! (Dan-keli kaumudi 532-533)

Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami

O mind, always remember Priya-saraḥ(Radha-kunda) and Girindrau (Giriraja Baba) as two places the mere sight of bestows charming love for Radha Govinda Yugala. (Manah Siksha 9)

Radha-kunda is superior [to Govardhana Hill] because of its flood of prema, Radha-kundam ihāpi gokula-pateḥpremāmṛtāplavanāt. (Mukta-carita)

With great care Srimati Radharani happily bathes everyday in Shyama-kunda, which is filled with the honey that oozes from Krishna’ lotus feet. (Visakhanandabhidha–stotra 26)

O sakhi (Rūpa Mañjari)! If the Youthful Couple, who enliven the whole world by distributing the nectar of Their mercy and anointing everyone with the fragrance of Their flower-like attributes, do not bestow Their mercy on me, then, O Sri Rupa Manjari, please arrange that I can always live at Sri Radha-kunda! (Prarthanashraya-caturdashaka 3)

udaṣcat-kāruṇyāmṛta-vitaraṇair jīvita-jagad-

yuva-dvandvaṁgandhair guṇa-sumanasaṁvāsita-janam

kṛpāṁcen mayy evaṁkirati na tadātvaṁkuru tathā

yathāme Sri-kuṇḍe sakhi sakalam aṅgaṁnivasati

 

Sri Jiva Goswamipada

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-Krishna passionate embraces; the breezes there are Radha-Krishna’s passionate sighs and trembling, and the water seen in those lakes is Radha-Krishna’s passionate love melted into nectar!” (In Gopala Campu, One Prarthamam Puranam 13-15).

Sri Krishna Dasa Kaviraja

Because of its wonderful transcendental qualities, Radha-kunda is as dear to Sri Hari as Sri Radha Herself. In Radha-kunda, the beautiful Madhavendu Sri Krishna always lovingly plays with Radhika. Simply by bathing here once, one attains a love for Krishna like Radhika’s. (Govinda-līlāmṛta 7.102)

Sri-rādheva hares tadīya-sarasīpreṣṭhādbhutaiḥsvair guṇair

yasyāṁSri-yuta-mādhavendur aniśaṁpremnātayākrīḍati |

premāsmin bata rādhikeva labhate yasmin sakṛt snāna-kṛt

tat tasyāmahimātathāmadhurimākenāstu varṇyaḥkṣitau

 

Vrnda: Hari is in the forest around Radha-kunda.

Radhika: What is Hari doing there?

Vrnda: Hari is learning dance.

Radhika: Who is teaching dance to Hari?

Vrnda: It is Your form Radha that is appearing in every tree and creeper in every direction and moving there like a skillful dancer, making Hari dance along behind. (Govinda-līlāmṛta 8.77)

kasmād vṛnde priya-sakhi hareḥpāda-mūlāt kuto ’sau

kuṇḍāraṇye kim iha kurute nṛtya-śikṣāṁguruḥkaḥ

taṁtvan-mūrtiḥprati-taru-lataṁdig-vidikṣu sphurantī

śailūṣīva bhramati parito nartayantīsva-paścāt

 

Every day without fail, Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami took three baths in Radha-kunda, tina sandhyāRadha-kuṇḍe apatita snāna. (Cc. 1.10.101)

Just as Srimati Radharani is most dear to Sri Krishna, Radha-kunda is also dear to Krishna. Among all the gopīs, Srimati Radharani is supermost and very dear to Sri Krishna. (Padma P/Cc. 2.8.99)

Sri Narahari Cakravarti Thakura

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

Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti

Longing to meet, but forced to remain separate, Radha-Govinda assumed the forms of Radha-kunda and Shyama-kunda. 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 Radha saw Krishna, Radha melted with ecstasy to assume a liquid form as the waters of Radha-kunda. In the same way, when Shyama saw Radha, Shyama also melted in ecstasy and became the waters of Shyama-kunda. (Vraja riti-cintamani 3.33-34)

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

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati

The spiritual master has an eternal kunja on the shore of Sri Radha-kunda. There he has bound Krishna by the power of his service.” (Amrta Vani Array53)

“As the surrendered maidservants of Sri Radha, we have to constantly live on the banks of Radha-kunda.

Sri Rūpa-manjari instructed that service to Radha-kunda, the highest object of Sri Gaurahari’s internal mood, is the ultimate goal of all service.

Only the most fortunate live in the most sanctified place, Sri Radha-kunda, with pure hearts and worship Krishna twenty-four hours a day.

Sri Radha-kunda is the topmost section of Goloka, the most confidential place in the spiritual sky, and the only shelter for devotees on the platform of mādhurya-rasa.

Only by Sri Radha’s mercy can one reside eternally on the banks of Radha-kunda, the topmost place in the entire creation.

Therefore Sri Rūpa Prabhu mentions taking bath in Radha-kunda in his ultimate instruction: tat premedaṁsakṛd api saraḥsnāturāviṣkaroti, “If one simply bathes once within those holy waters, one’s pure love of Krishna is fully aroused.

The topmost principle in the spiritual kingdom is to bathe in Sri Radha-kunda.” (Lec. 16 Oct. 1932 at Radha-kunda)

The eternal land of our abode should be Radha Kunda. By the border of Radha Kunda we should have our groves. (article: “Radha Dasyam”)

Bathing Mantra

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:

rādhikā-sama-saubhāgya, sarva-tīrtha-pravandita

prasīda rādhikā-kuṅḍa, snāmi te salile śubhe

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.

Radha Kunda Tilaka

Acyutananda Swami said, “Srila Prabhupada, our devotees are also wearing the Radha-kunda tilaka.”

Srila Prabhupada replied, “There is no harm.” (Folio:  760816rc.bom)

Shyama-kunda Radha Kunda ki jai!  Jai Jai Sri Radhe!

 

,

Wonderful Radha Kunda part two

Mahanidhi Swami

 

Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami: I take shelter of the Sangama at Radha-kunda,

 

which is Radha-Madhava’s dear most charming playground that is surrounded by trees of excellent Ashoka, Bakula, Kadamba, Mango and Naga-Keshara, and vines of Campaka, Lavanga and Madhavi.

 

népaiç campaka-pälibhir nava-varäçokai rasälotkaraiù

punnägair bakulair lavaìga-latikä väsantikäbhir våtaiù

hådyaà tat-priya-kuëòayos taöa-milan-madhya-pradeçaà paraà

Radha-mädhavayoù priya-sthalam idaà kelyäs tad eväçraye.

 

What to speak of other places, even the delightful forest of Våndävana, the most beautiful Govardhana Hill, and the rapture-filled Rasa Sthali are not equal to even a single particle of one of the atoms of Sri Radha-kunda. I take shelter of Radha-kunda, which is dearer to Mukunda than His dearly beloved Radhika.

 

Sri-våndä-vipinaà suramyam api tac chrémän sa govardhanaù

sä rasa-sthalikäpy alaà rasamayé kià tävad anya-sthalam

yasyäpy aàça-lavena närhati manäk sämyaà mukundasya tat

präëebhyo’py adhika-priyeva dayitaà tat-kuëòam eväçraye. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 52-53)

 

I always eagerly worship Ariñöakuëòa (Shyama-kunda), who automatically appeared from Krishna’s lotus feet just as honey automatically trickles from a blooming flower when Krishna killed the wicked Ariñöa-demon. Shyama-kunda, who lovingly embraces Sri Radha-kunda, was beautified with staircases by Sri Radha due to Her great love [for Shyama-kunda].

 

duñöäriñöa-vadhe svayaà samudabhüt kåñëäìghri-padmäd idaà

sphétaà yan makaranda-viståtir iväriñöäkhyam iñöaà saraù

sopänaiù pariraïjitaà priyatayä Sri-rädhayä käritaiù

premëäliìgad iva priyä sara idaà tan nétya-nityaà bhaje. (Vraja Vilasa Stava 58)

 

Some great souls, who in their previous lives worshiped the beautiful lotus feet of Sri Gändharvä and Acyuta with the ever-fresh sweetness of ecstatic spiritual love, are able to live on the bank of Sväminé’s dear most lake Sri Radha-kunda. These great devotees are my life and soul!

 

purä premodrekaiù pratipada-navänanda-madhuraiù

kåta-Sri-gändharväcyuta-caraëa-varyärcana-balät

nikämaà sväminyaù priyatara-saras-téra-bhuvane

vasanti sphéta ye ta iha mama jévätava ime (Vraja Vilasa Stava 101)

 

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.

 

ULLÄSAIR JALAKELI LOLUPA MANAÙ PÜRE NIDÄGHODGAME

KÑVELÉ LAMPAÖA MÄNASÄBHIR ABHITAÙ SÄYAÀ SAKHÉBHIR VÅTÄM

GOVINDAÀ SARASI PRIYE’TRA SALILA KRÉÒÄ VIDAGDHAÀ KAËAIÙ

SIÏCANTÉÀ JALA-YANTRAKEËA PAYASÄÀ RADHAÀ KADÄHAÀ BHAJE

(Utkantha Dasakam 8)

 

O sakhi (Rüpa Maïjari)! If the Youthful Couple, who enliven the whole world by distributing the nectar of Their mercy and who anoint everyone with the fragrance of Their flower-like attributes, do not give me Their mercy, then please arrange that I can always stay at Sri Radha-kunda (and that I may leave my body there)!

 

UDAÏCAT KÄRUËYÄMÅTA VITARAËAIR JÉVITA JAGAD

YUVADVANDVAÀ GANDHAIR GUËA SUMANASÄÀ VÄSITA JANAM

KÅPÄÀ CEN MAYYEVAM KIRATI NA TADÄ TVAÀ KURU TATHÄ

YATHÄ ME SRI KUËÒE SAKHI SAKALAM AÌGAÀ NIVASATI

(Sri Prarthanashraya Chaturdasakam v. 3)

 

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

 

GIRI-VARA TAÖA KUÏJE MAÏJU VÅNDÄVANEÇÄ

SARASI CA RACAYAN SRI RADHIKA KRISHNA KÉRTIM

DHÅTA RATI RAMAËÉYAÀ SAÀSMARAÀ TAT PADÄBJAÀ

VRAJA DADHI PHALAM AÇNAN SARVA KÄLAÀ VASÄMI

(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?

 

AMALA KAMALA RÄJI SPARÇI BÄTA PRAÇÉTE,

NIJA SARASI NIDÄGHE SÄYAM ULLÄSINÉYAM

PARIJANA GAËA YUKTA KRÉÒAYANTÉ BAKÄRÉÀ

SNAPAYATI NIJA DÄSYE RADHIKA MÄÀ KADÄ NU

(Sri Radhikastakam 8)

 

O blooming lotus-eyed girl (Rädhe)! 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!

 

YADÄ TAVA SAROVARAÀ SARASA BHÅÌGA SAÌGHOLLASAT,

SARORUHA KULOJJVALAÀ MADHURA VÄRI SAMPURITAM,

SPHUÖAT SARASIJÄKÑI HE NAYANA-YUGMA SÄKÑÄD VABHAU,

TADAIVA MAMA LÄLASÄJANI TAVAIVA DÄSYE RASE (Vilapa Kusumanjali 15)

 

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

 

SVA KUËÒAÀ TAVA LOLÄKÑI, SAPRIYÄYÄÙ SADÄSPADAM,

ATRAIVA MAMA SAÀVÄSA, IHAIVA MAMA SAÀSTHITIÙ (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 KAÇCID,  YASYA SEVÄ PRASÄDAIÙ

PRAËAYA SURALATÄ SYÄT,  TASYA GOÑÖHENDRA SÜNOÙ

SAPADI KILA MAD ÉÇÄ,  DÄSYA PUÑPA PRAÇASYÄS

TAD ATI SURABHI RÄDHÄ, KUËÒAM EVÄÇRAYO 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 SADÄ TVAYI SÄ MAD ÉÇÄ

PREÑÖHENA SÄRDHAM IHA KHELATI KÄMA RAÌGAIÙ

TVAÀ CET PRIYÄT PRIYAM ATÉVA TAYOR ITÉMÄÀ

HA DARÇAYÄDYA KÅPAYÄ MAMA JÉVITAÀ TÄM (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 MURAÇATROÙ,  PREYASÉNÄÀ NIKÄMAIR

ASULABHAM API TÜRËAÀ,   PREMA KALPA DRUMAÀ TVAM

JANAYATI HÅDI BHÜMAU,  SNÄTUR UCCAIÙ PRIYAÀ YAT

TAD ATI SURABHI RÄDHÄ, KUËÒAM EVÄÇRAYO ME (Radha-kunda Astakam 2)

Kundavasi Dasa Goswami ki jai! Radha-kunda ki jai! Jaya Jaya Sri Radhe!

,

Wonderful Radha Kunda part one

Mahanidhi Swami

 

Sriman Mahaprabhu unveiled Radha-kunda and bathed there about 500 years ago.

 

After offering the following prayers, Mahaprabhu became overwhelmed in prema, and danced in bliss on the banks of Radha-kunda while meditating upon Radha-Madhava’s pastimes there, premäviñöa haïä tére nåtya kare kuëòa-lélä saìariyä. (Cc. 2.18.13)

 

Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu:

  1. Radha-kunda is very dear to Sri Krishna because it is very dear to Radha, taiche rädhä-kuëòa priya ‘priyära sarasé’ (Cc. 2.18.7)
  2. In Radha-kunda, Krishna eternally associates with Radhika enjoying water sports and other rapturous pastimes on Her banks, yei kuëòe nitya kåñëa rädhikära saìge, jale jala-keli kare, tére räsa-raìge. (Cc. 2.18.9)
  3. Sri Krishna gives ecstatic love like that of Radha to whoever BATHES EVEN ONCE in Radha-kunda, sei kuëòe eka bära yei kore snäna, täre rädhä sama prema kåñëa kore däna!” (Cc. 2.18.10)
  4. The glorious sweetness Radha-kunda resembles Radha’s sweet glories, kuëòera ‘mädhuré’ yena rädhära ‘madhurimä’, kuëòera ‘mahimä’ yena rädhära ‘mahimä’. (Cc. 2.18.11)

 

Glorification of Sri Radha-kunda by Gaudiya Vaisnava Acharyas:

 

Sri Rupa Gosvami:

  1. Radha-kunda is the topmost holy place in Vrindavana because it immerses one in the nectar of Gokulapati Krishna prema. What discriminating person would not wish to serve this magnificent lake beside Giri-Govardhana, rädhä-kuëòam ihäpi gokula-pateù premämåtä plävanät, kuryäd asya viräjato giri-taöe seväà viveké na kaù. (Upadeshamrita 9)

 

Srila Prabhupada Purport:

Rädhä-kuëòa is superior to all because here love of Kåñëa overflows. Advanced devotees prefer to reside at Rädhä-kuëòa because this place is the site of many memories of the eternal loving affairs between Kåñëa and Rädhäräëé (rati-viläsa). Who, then, would give up Rädhä-kuëòa and try to reside elsewhere? No person with transcendental intelligence would do so.

 

  1. Radha-kunda is as profoundly dear to Sri Krishna as Radharani, the most beloved of the gopés. Who, then, will not reside at Rädhä-kuëòa and, in a spiritual body surcharged with ecstatic devotional feelings [apräkåta-bhäva], render loving service to the divine couple Çré Çré Rädhä-Govinda, who perform Their añöakäléya-lélä, Their eternal eightfold daily pastimes. Indeed, those who execute devotional service on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa are the most fortunate people in the universe. (Upad. 10)

 

Srila Prabhupada Purport:

Srimati Radharani the most exalted devotee of Kåñëa and Her Çré Rädhä-kuëòa is the most exalted place. Therefore everyone interested in Kåñëa consciousness should ultimately take shelter of Rädhä-kuëòa and execute devotional service there throughout one’s life.

 

  1. Upon one who bathes just once in Her waters, Radha-kunda bestows gopi-prema which is very difficult for Krishna’s dear devotees to attain what to speak of ordinary sadhakas, yat preñöhair apy alam asulabhaà kià punar bhakti-bhäjäà, tat premedaà sakåd api saraù snätur äviñkaroti. (Upad. 11)

 

Srila Prabhupada Purport:

It is stated that 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. Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé recommends that even if one cannot live permanently on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa, 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.

 

Çréla Bhaktivinoda Öhäkura writes in this connection that 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.

 

If, by great fortune, one gets an opportunity to come to Rädhä-kuëòa and bathe even once, he can develop his transcendental love for Kåñëa, exactly as the gopés did.

 

It is also recommended that one should live on the banks of Rädhä-kuëòa and should 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. (All quotes above from Srila Prabhupada Upadeshamrita 11 pur.)

Radha-kunda snana ki jai! Radha-kunda vasa ki jai! Jaya Jaya Sri Radhe!

,

TONIGHT: Radha Kunda Appears!

Mahanidhi Swami

 

Since every pastime of Bhagavan Sri Krishna is eternal, tonight in some other universe Radha-kunda will appear at midnight before the amazed eyes of the gopis and Vrajavasis.

 

Sri Sanatana Goswami proves that today is the appearance day of Sri Radha-kunda in his tika (SB 10.45.3): “Bhagavan Sri Krishna killed Arishta on the full moon day of Caitra month when Krishna was eleven.” Afterwards Radha-Krishna manifested Shyama-kunda and Radha-kunda. That wonderful appearance lila, as described in the Vishnu Purana, will conclude this article.

 

In other words, the actual appearance day/night of Sri Radha-kunda is tonight April 10th at midnight when the moon will be full. I know a few bhavuka bhaktas that celebrate this wonderful lila every year on Caitra Purnima with puja and a midnight bath in Sri Kunda.

 

So what about Kattika month and the Bahulastami snana? Other than recommending daily or regular bathing in Radha-kunda, the six Goswamis only mention Karttika Bahulastami as one special day to bathe in Radha-kunda. Vrajavasis say that on this day, Krishna tested the saintliness of a cow named Bahula, and thus the Puranas recommend a holy dip in Radha-kunda on THIS DAY. Incidentally, the Vrindavana forest of Bahulavan is very close to Radha-kunda.

 

In his Mathura Mahatyam, Sri Rupa Gosvami, quoting the Puranas, says, “Anyone who ON THE DAY of Bahulastami (aka Karttika Krishna astami) bathes in Radha-kunda, that person will become very dear to Sri Hari.” Certainly all Gaudiya Vaisnavas want to become dear to Sri Hari, and dear to His dearest Haripriya Swamini Sri Radhe! Thus, they all try to honor this auspicious, transcendental day by bathing in Radha-kunda.

 

On Bahulastami evening, barren North Indian grhasta couples worship a fertility devi named Ahouri in hopes of getting a child. The puja rites culminate with a midnight bath in Radha-kunda. It seems that over time, the Gaudiya’s daytime Bahulastami snana merged with the grhasta’s midnight in Radha-kunda, resulting in Gaudiyas’ thinking that they are bathing at midnight to celebrate the appearance of Radha-kunda.

 

So if you’re near, come over to Govardhana for a holy dip in Sri Radha-kunda Dhama under the rasa-filled full moon night of Caitra TO REJOICE OVER THE ACTUAL APPEARANCE DAY OF SRI RADHA KUNDA!

 

Appearance of Sri Radha Kunda 

 

In his Sarartha Darshini tikas (SB 10.36.16) Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti quotes the Radha-kunda appearance pastime from Vishnu Purana, describing a joking conversation between Radha-Madhava after Krishna had killed the Arishta demon bull.

 

“The innocent young gopis said, ‘Ah, Krishna, don’t touch us now, O killer of a bull! Alas, even though Arishta was a terrible demon, still he was posing as a bull, who represents dharma, so You will have to undergo atonement, just as Lord Indra did after killing Vrtrasura. But how can You purify Yourself without going to the trouble of visiting every single holy place in the three worlds?”

 

Krishna: “Why should I have to wander throughout the entire universe? I will at once bring all the countless pilgrimage places here and take My bath in them. Just watch!” With this, Lord Mukunda struck His left heel on the ground.

 

Then Krishna said, “Just see sakhis! This is the water of the Patala Ganga. And now, all holy places please come here!” Then all the holy places arrived before Sri Krishna.

 

Krishna proudly said, “O gopis, you see all the holy places!”

Vraja-gopis: “No, we don’t see them as You describe.”

 

Then those best of holy places, joining their palms in supplication, spoke up:

‘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 the holy place Pushkara.’ ‘I am the river Sarasvati.”And we are the Godavari, Yamuna and Reva rivers and the triveni of Prayaga. Just see our waters!’ ”

 

Sri Krishna took a purifying bath, and then arrogantly said, “Bho, bho sakhis! I have produced a pond containing all the holy places, whereas you gopis have never done any pious acts to please Brahmaji”

 

Sri Radha said boldly, “I must create an even more beautiful pond than His. 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 the holy waters of mine.”

 

“NO! NO! NO! Impossible”, said Radharani, “We cannot take Your water which is contaminated with the terrible sin of killing a cow. I have an unlimited number of 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 Your toes of Your lotus feet.

 

“It is on Krishna’s command 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! Throughout the world and the universe, Your Radha-kunda will become supremly more famous than Mine! And I will come here every day 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 Arishtas here, I will still come and bathe every day in Your Krishna Kunda.

Furthermore, I proclaim that in the future, anyone who has intense devotion for My Sri Kunda, who who bathes or resides here is sure to become very dear to Me.”

 

That night [Caitra Purnima], Sri Krishna and the Vraja-gopis enjoyed maha rasotsavam on the banks of Radha-kunda. The Krishna cloud combined with the lightning strike of Sri to cause a downpour of glee to flood the three worlds with their playfully divine lila, 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!