Sie sind auf Seite 1von 141

Srila Rupa Gosvami's

Sri Padyavali

Auspicious Introduction

Text 1

pady�val� viracit� rasikair mukunda-


sambandha-bandhura-pad� pramadormi-sindhu�
ramy� samasta-tamas�� daman� krame�a
sa�g�hyate k�ti-kadambaka-kautuk�ya

padya-of verses; �val�-anthology; viracit�-written; rasikai�-by those who are


expert a relishing the mellows of devotional service; mukunda-with Lord Mukunda;
sambandha-in relation; bandhura-beautiful; pramada-of delight; �rm�-with waves;
sindhu�-ocean; ramy�-pleasing; samasta-all; tamasam-of ignorance; dam�ni-the
destroyer; krame�a-with a methodical arrangement; sa�g�hyate-collected; k�t�-of
devotees; kadambaka-of the multitude; kautuk�ya-for the pleasure.

This Pady�val� (Anthology of Poetry) was written by devotees expert in the


mellows of devotional service. This book contains many beautiful verses, which have
been collected for the pleasure of the devotees. It illuminates the darkness of
ignorance, and it is an ocean of transcendental bliss.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Granth�rambhe ma�gal�cara�am
Auspicious Introductions

Text 2

namo nalina-netr�ya
ve�u-v�dya-vinodine
r�dh�dhara-sudh�-p�na-
��line vana-m�line

nama�-obeisances; nalina-lotus flowers; netraya-eyes; ve�u-flute; v�dya-music;


vinodine-pastimes; r�dh�-of �r�mat� R�dh�r���; �dhara-of the lips; sudh�-nectar;
p�na-drinking; ��line-engaged; vana-m�line-wearing a garland of forest flowers.

To �r� K���a, whose eyes are beautiful as lotus flowers, who delights in
playing the flute, who drinks the nectar R�dh�'s lips, and who is garlanded with
forest flowers, I offer respectful obeisances.
-author unknown

Text 3

bhakti-prahva-vilokana-pra�ayin� n�lotpala-spardhin�
dhy�n�lambanat�� sam�dhi-niratair n�te hita-pr�ptaye
l�va�yaika-mah�-nidh� rasikat�� r�dh�-d��os tanval�
yu�m�ka� kurut�� bhav�rt�-�amana� netre tanur v� hare�

bhakt�-with devotion; prahva-bowed down; vilokana-with the sight; pra�ayi��-


affectionate; n�la-blue; utpala-lotus flowers; spardhin�-rivalling; dhy�na-
meditation; �lambanat�m-support; sam�dh�-in meditation; niratai�-by those who are
engaged; n�te-attained; hita-of auspiciousness; pr�ptaye-for the attainment;
l�va�ya-of beauty; eka-one; mah�-great; nidh�-abode; rasikat�m-love; r�dh�-of
�r�mat� R�dh�r���; d��o�-of the eyes; tanvat�-expanding; yu�m�kam-of you; kurut�m-
may He create; bhava-of the material world; �rt�-of the distresses; �amanam-the
quelling; netre-eyes; tanu�-form; v�-or; hare�-of Lord Hari.

This verse may be interpreted for either Lord K���a's eyes or form. The two
possible translations follow.

Translation 1

May Lord Hari's eyes, which lovingly gaze on the devotees, which rival the
splendor of blue lotuses, on which the yog�s meditate to attain auspiciousness,
which are two great oceans of handsomeness, and which fill R�dh�'s eyes with the
nectar of love, quell for you the sufferings of material life.

Translation 2

May Lord Hari's form, on which the devotees lovingly gaze, which rivals the
splendor of blue lotuses, on which the yog�s meditate to attain auspiciousness,
which is a great ocean of handsomeness, and which fills R�dh�'s eyes with the
nectar of love, quell for you the sufferings of material life.
-�r� S�ra�ga

Text 4

ye govardhana-m�la-kardama-rasa-vy�d���a-barh��gad�
ye v�nd�vana-kuk�i�u vraja-vadh�-n�lopadh�n�ni ca
ye c�bhy��ga-sugandhaya� kuvalay�p��asya d�n�mbhas�
te vo ma�galam �di�antu satata� ka�sa-dvi�o b�hava�

ye-which; govardhana-of Govardhana Hill; m�la-from the base; kardama-rasa-with


mud; vy�d���a-observed; barha-peacock feather; a�gad��-bracelets; ye-which;
v�nd�vana-of V�nd�vana; kuk�i�u-in the depths; vraja-of V�nd�vana; vadh�-of the
wives; n�la-dark; upadh�n�ni-pillows; ca-and; ye-which; ca-and; abhya�ga-with
aromatic substances; sugandhaya�-fragant; kuvalay�p��asya-of Kuval�yp��a elephant;
d�na-ambhas�-with the liquid which flows from the temples of a maddened elephant;
te-they; va�-to you; ma�galam-auspiciousness; �di�antu-may show; satatam-always;
ka�sa-of Ka�sa; dvi�a�-of the enemy (�r� K���a); b�hava�-arms.

May K���a's arms, their golden ornaments and peacock feathers anointed with
mud when He lifted Govardhana Hill, deep in V�nd�vana forest the gop�s two blue
pillows, and anointed with Kuvalay�p��a's fragrant ichor, always grant
auspiciousness to you.
-�ubh��ka

Text 5

s�ya� vy�vartam�n�khila-surabh�-kul�hv�na-sa�keta-n�m�ny
�bh�r�-v�nda-ceto-ha�ha-hara�a-kal�-siddha-mantr�k�ar��i
saubh�gya� va� samant�d dadhatu madhu-bhida� kel�-gop�la-m�rte�
s�nand�k���a-v�nd�vana-rasika-m�ga-�re�ayo ve�u-n�d��

s�yam-at evening; vy�vartam�ha-becoming separated; akhila-all; surabh�-of


surabh� cows; kula-community; �hv�na-calling; sa�keta-hints; n�m�ni-names; �bh�r�-
of gop�s; v�nda-of the multitude; ceta�-minds; ha�ha-forcibly; hara�a-enchanting;
kal�-trick; siddha-successful; mantra-mantra; ak�ar���-syllables; saubh�gyam-
blessedness; va�-to you; samant�t-completely; dadhatu-may grant; madhu-of the Madhu
demon; bhida�-of the destroyer (�r� K���a); kel�-pastimes; gop�la-cowherd boy;
m�rte�-form; sa-with; �nanda-bliss; �k���a-attracted; v�nd�vana-of V�nd�vana;
rasika-connoisseurs; m�ga-deer; �re�aya�-multitudes; ve�u-of the flute; n�d��-
sounds.
May playful Gop�la's flute-music, which calls the faraway surabh� cows by
name, which is the mystic mantra that charms the gop�s hearts, and which delights
and attracts the deer enjoying in V�nd�vana, bless you all.
-�r� Hara

�r� K���asya mahim�


The Glory of K���a

Text 6

ambhodhi� sthalat�� sthala� jaladhit�� dh�l�-lava� �ailat��


�ailo m�t-ka�at�� t��a� kuli�at�� vajra� t��a-k���at�m
vahni� ��talat�� hima� dahanat�m �y�t� yasyecchay�
l�l�-durlalit�dbhuta-vyasanine k����ya tasma� nama�

ambhodhi�-ocean; sthalat�m-the state of being dry land; sthalam-dry land;


jaladhit�m-the state of being the ocean; dh�l�-of dust; lava�-a particle; �ailat�m-
the state of being a mountain; �aila�-a mountain; m�t-ka�at�m-the state of being a
particle of dust; t��am-a blade of grass; kuli�at�m-the state of being a
thunderbolt; vajram-a thunderbolt; t��a-as a blade of grass; k���atam-the state of
being insignificant; vahni�-fire; ��talat�m-the state of being cool; himam-snow;
dahanat�m-the state of being able to burn; �y�t�-goes; yasya-of whom; icchay�-with
the wish; l�l�-pastimes; durlalita-mischievous; adbhuta-wonderful; vyasanine-
attached to performing; k����ya-to K���a; tasmai-to Him; nama�-I offer respectful
obeisances.

I offer my respectful obeisances to wonderful, playful, mischievous K���a who,


if He desires, can make an ocean dry land, dry land an ocean, a blade of grass a
thunderbolt, a thunderbolt an insignificant blade of grass, fire cool, or snow a
blazing fire.
-author unknown

Text 7

v�tsaly�d abhaya-prad�ha-samay�d �rt�rti-nirv�pa��d


aud�ry�d agha-�o�an�d aga�ita-�reya�-pr�pa��t
sevya� �r�-patir e�a sarva-jagat�m ete yata� s�k�i��
prahl�da� ca vibh��a�a� ca kar�-r�� p��c�ly ahaly� dhruva�

v�tsaly�t-because of paternal affection; abhaya-of fearlessness; prad�na-gift;


samay�t-because of the promise; �rta-of the distressed; �rt�-of the distress;
nirv�pa��t-because of the negation; aud�ry�t-because of generosity; agha-of sins;
�o�a��t-because of the removal; aga�ita-immeausurably; �reya�-auspicious; pada-
position; pr�pa��t-because of the gift; sevya�-should be served; �r�-of the goddess
of fortune (�r�mat� R�dh�r���); pati�-the lord (�r� K���a); eva-certainly; sarva-
all; jagata�-by the universes; ete-these; yata�-because; s�k�ina�-witnesses;
prahl�da�-Prahl�da; ca-and; vibh��a�a�-Vibh��a�a; kar�-r��-Gajendra, the king of
the elephants; p��c�l�-Draupad�; ahaly�-Ahaly�; dhruva�-Dhruva.

Because He is very affectionate, He promises to give fearlessness to His


devotees, He removes His devotees sufferings, He is generous, He takes away His
devotees sins, and He bestows limitless auspiciousness, and because Prahl�da,
Vibh��a�a, Gajendra, Draupad�, Ahaly�, and Dhruva tesify to these virtues, Lord
K���a, the husband of the goddess of fortune, should be served by all the worlds.
-author unknown

Bhajana-m�h�tmya
The Glory of Devotional Service
Text 8

vy�dhasy�cara�a� dhruvasya ca vayo vidy� gajendrasya k�


kubj�y�� kim u n�ma r�pam adhika� ki� sud�mno dhanam
va�sa� ko vidurasya y�dava-pater ugrasya kim pauru�a�
bhakty� tu�yat� kevala� na ca gu�air bhakt�-priyo m�dhava�

vy�dhasya-of the hunter named Dharma; acara�am-pious activities; dhruvasya-of


Dhruva Mah�r�ja; ca-and; vaya�-mature age; vidy�-knowledge; gajendrasya-of
Gajendra; k�-what?; kubj�y��-of Kubj�; kim u n�ma-how much more; r�pam-beauty;
adhikam-great; kim-what; tat-that; sud�mna�-of Sud�m� Vipra; dhanam-wealth; va��a�-
good family; ka�-what; vidurasya-of Vidura; y�dava-of the Yadu dynasty; pate�-of
the king; ugrasya-of Ugrasena; kim-what; pauru�am-prowesss; bhakty�-by devotional
service; tu�yat�-is pleased; kevalam-only; na-not; ca-and; gu�ai�-by material
qualifications; bhakt�-of devotional; priya�-fond; m�dhava�-Lord M�dhava.

Where were the hunter Dharma's piety, Dhruva's maturity, and Gajendra's
knowledge? Where was Kubj�'s beauty? Where was Sud�m�'s wealth? Where was Vidura's
noble birth? Where was Ugrasena's chivalrous strength? Lord M�dhava is pleased only
by devotional service and not by material qualifications.
-�r� D�k�i��tya

Text 9

anucitam ucita� v� karma ko 'ya� vih�go


bhagavat� param �st�� bhakti-yogo drad�h�y�n
kirat� vi�am ah�ndra� s�ndra-p�y��am indur
dvayam api sa mahe�o nirvi�e�a� bibharti

anucitam-improper; ucitam-proper; v�-or; karma-activities; ka�-what?; ayam-


this; vibh�ga�-difference; bhagavat�-to the Supreme Personality of Godhead; param-
however; �st�m-there may be; bhakt�-yoga�-devotional service; dra�h�y�n-firm;
kirat�-emanates; vi�am-poison; ah�-of snakes; indra�-king; s�ndra-intense; p�y��am-
nectar; indu�-the moon; dvayam-both; ap�-even; sa�-he; mahe�a�-Lord �iva;
nivi�e�am-without making distinction; bibhart�-carries.

What is the difference between good and bad deeds? Let there be only firm
devotional service to the Supreme Lord. Although the king of snakes gives poison
and the moon gives sweet nectar, Lord �iva and does not see any difference betweeen
them.
-�r� Vi��u Pur�

Text 10

yad� madhu-mathana tvad-a�ghri-sev��


h�d� vidadh�t� jah�t� v� vivek�
tad-akhilam api du�k�ta� triloke
k�tam ak�ta� na k�ta� k�tam ca sarvam

yad�-if; madhu-of the Madhu demon; mathana-O killer; tvat-Your; a�ghr�-feet;


sev�m-service; h�d�-in the heart; vidadh�t�-perform; jah�t�-abandon; v�-or; vivek�-
discriminating person; tat-of him; akhilam-all; ap�-even; dusk�tam-sinful deeds;
tr�-loke-in the three worlds; k�tam-performed; ak�tam-not performed; na-not; k�tam-
performed; k�tam-performed; ca-and; sarvam-all.

O Madhus�dana, if a wise person in his heart serves Your lotus feet then any
sins he may have done are all nullified. If he rejects Your service he gets all
sinful reactions even though he may not have done any sinful deed.
-author unknown

Text 11

k���yan na ca bhojan�di-niyamm�n no v� vane v�sato


vy�khy�n�d athav� mun�-vrata-bhar�c cittodbhava� k��yate
kintu sph�ta-kalinda-�aila-tanay�-t�re�u vikr��ato
govindasya pad�ravinda-bhajan�rambhasya le��d api

k���y�t-from the saffron color; na-not; ca-and; bhojana-of eating; �d�-etc.;


niyam�t-from restraint; na-not; v�-or; vane-in the forest; v�sata�-from the
residence; vy�khy�n�t-from explanation of the scriptures; athav�-or; mun�-vrata-
from the vow of silence; bhar�t-great; citta-udbhava�-cupid; k��yate-becomes
weakened; kintu-but; sph�ta-broad; kalinda-of Mount Kalinda; �aila-mountain;
tanay�-of the daughter (the Yamun� river); t�re�u-on the ba�ks; vikr��ata�-playing;
govindasya-of Lord Govinda; pada-feet; aravinda-lotus flowers; bhajana-of the
devotional service; �rambhasya-of the beginning; le��t-from a little particle; ap�-
even.

Not by wearing saffron cloth, not by restricting food and other sense-
activities, not by living in the forest, not by discussing philosophy, and not by
observing a vow of silence, but only by even the slightest beginning of devotional
service to the lotus feet of Lord Govinda, who enjoys pastimes on the Yamun�'s wide
banks, is K�madeva stopped.
-author unknown

Text 12

alam alam iyam eva pr��in�� p�tak�n��


nirasana-vi�aye y� k���a k���et� v���
yad� bhavat� mukunde bhaktir �nanda-s�ndr�
vilut�hat� cara��bje mok�a-s�mr�jya-lak�m��

alam-enough; alam-enough; iyam-this; eva-certainly; pr��in�m-of the living


entities; p�tak�n�m-of the sins; nirasana-vi�aye-in the matter of becoming free;
y�-which; k���a-O K���a; k���a-O K���a; it�-thus; v���-words; yad�-if; bhavat�-
there is; mukunde-for Lord Mukunda; bhakti�-devotional service; �nanda-bliss;
s�ndr�-abundance; vilu�hat�-rolls; cara�a-feet; abje-lotus; mok�a-of liberation;
s�mr�jya-lak�m��-kingly opulence.

The words K���a K���a are sufficient to purify the people's sins. If they have
blissful service to Lord Mukunda, then the goddess of liberation bows before their
lotus feet.
-�r� Sarvaj�a

Text 13

n�ncopac�ra-k�ta-p�janam �rta-bandho�
prem�aiva bhakta-h�daya� sukha-vidruta� sy�t
y�vat k�ud ast� ja�hare jara�h� pip�s�
t�vat sukh�ya bhavato nanu bhak�ya-peye

n�n�-upac�ra-by varieties of ingredients; k�ta-performed; p�janam-worshiping;


�rta-bandho�-of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is the friend of all
distressed persons; prem��-by ecstatic love; eva-indeed; bhakta-h�dayam-the heart
of a devotee; sukha-vidrutam-melted in transcendental bliss; sy�t-becomes; y�vat-as
long as; k�ut-appetite; ast�-there is; ja�hare-in the stomach; jara�h�-strong;
pip�s�-thirst; t�vat-so long; sukh�ya-for happiness; bhavata�-are; nanu-indeed;
bhak�ya-eatables; peye-and drinkables.
As long as there is hunger and thirst, eating and drinking make one feel very
happy. When the Lord is worshiped with pure love, transcendental bliss is awakened
in the heart of the devotee.*
-�r� R�m�nanda R�ya

Text 14

k���a-bhakt�-rasa-bh�vit� mati�
kr�yat�� yad� kuto 'p� labhyate
tatra laulyam ap� m�lyam ekala�
janma-ko��-suk�tair na labhyate

k���a-bhakt�-rasa-bh�vit�-absorbed in the mellows of executing devotional


service to K���a; mati�-intelligence; kr�yat�m-let it be purchased; yad�-if; kuta�
ap�-somewhere; labhyate-is available; tatra-there; laulyam-greed; ap�-indeed;
m�lyam-price; ekalam-only; janma-ko��-of millions of births; suk�tai�-by pious
activities; na-not; labhyate-is obtained.

Pure devotional service in K���a consciousness cannot be had even by pious


activity in hundreds and thousand of lives. It can be attained only by paying one
price-{.fn 3}that is, intense greed to obtain it. If it is available somewhere, one
must purchase it without delay.*
-�r� R�m�nanda R�ya

Text 15

j��nam ast� tulita� ca tul�y��


prema naiva tulita� tu tul�y�m
siddhir eva tulit�tra tul�y��
k���a-n�ma tulita� na tul�y�m

j��nam-knowledge; ast�-is; tulitam-equalled; ca-and; tul�y�m-in the scale;


prema-of love of God; na-not; eva-certainly; tulitam-equal; tu-but; tul�y�m-in the
scale; siddhi�-mystic powers; eva-certainly; tulit�-equal; atra-here; tul�y�m-in
the scale; k���a-of �r� K���a; n�ma-name; tulitam-equal; na-not; tul�y�m-in the
scale.

Knowledge is not equal to love of K���a, and the ability to perform mystic
tricks is not equal to K���a's holy name.
-�r� �r�dhara Sv�m�

N�ma-m�h�tmya
The Glory of the Holy Name

Text 16

a�ha� samharad akhila�


sak�d uday�d eva sakala-lokasya
tara�ir iva timira-jaladhi�
jayat� jagan-ma�gala� harer n�ma

a�ha�-sins; samharat-removes; akhilam-all; sak�t-once; uday�t-from the arisal;


eva-certainly; sakala-entire; lokasya-of the world; tara�i�-the sun; iva-like;
timira-of darkness; jaladhim-an ocean; jayat�-all glories; jagat-to the universe;
ma�galam-auspiciousness; hare�-of Lord Hari; n�ma-the name.

All glories to the holy name of Lord Hari. As the boat of the sun goes to the
other shore of the ocean of darkness, so the all-auspicious holy name, rising once,
destroys all sins.
-�#r� Lak�m�dhara

Text 17

catur��� ved�n�m h�dayam idam �k��ya hari��


caturbhir yad var�ai� sphu�am aghat� n�r�ya�a-padam
tad etad g�yanto vayam ani�am �tm�nam adhun�
pun�mo j�n�mo na hari-parito��ya kim api

catur��m-of the four; ved�n�m-Vedas; h�dayam-the heart; idam-this; �k��ya-


extracted; hari��-by Lord Hari; caturbhi�-with four; yat-which; var�ai�-syllables;
sphu�am-clearly; aghat�-manifests; n�r�ya�a-N�r�ya�a; padam-the word; tat-
therefore; etat-this; g�yanta�-chanting; vayam-we; ani�am-day and night; �tm�nam-
ourselves; adhun�-now; pun�ma�-purifying; j�n�ma�-we know; na-not; har�-of Lord
K���a; parito��ya-for the satisfaction; kim ap�-something.

Extracting the four syllables that are the heart of the four Vedas, Lord Har�
makes the word N�r�ya�a. Day and night chanting this name, we become purified. We
do not know any other better way to please Lord Hari.
-author unknown

Text 18

yoga-�ruty-upapatti-nirjana-vana-dhy�n�dhva-sambh�vita-
sv�r�jya� pratipadya nirbhayam am� mukt� bhavantu dvij��
asm�ka� tu kadamba-ku�ja-kuhara-pronm�lad-ind�vara-
�re��-�y�mala-dh�ma-n�ma ju�at�� janm�stu lak��vadhi

yoga-of yoga; �rut�-and Vedic study; upapatt�-attainment; nirjana-in a


solitary; vana-forest; dhy�na-meditation; adhva-path; sambh�vita-may be; sv�r�jyam-
kingdom; pratipadya-entering; nirbhayam-fearless; am�-they; mukt��-liberated;
bhavantu-may become; dvij��-the twice-born; asm�kam-of us; tu-however; kadamba-of
kadamba trees; ku�ja-of a grove; kuhara-deep within; pronm�lat-blooming; ind�vara-
of blue lotus flowers; �re��-of a series; �y�mala-a dark; dh�ma-splendor; n�ma-the
name; ju�at�m-engaged; janma-birth; astu-may be; lak�a-avadh�-100,000.

Let the twice-born enter the fearless kingdom of yoga, vedic study, and
solitary meditation in the forest. Let them become liberated in that way. As for
us, we will spend hundreds of thousands of births chanting the holy name of Lord
K���a, whose splendid dark complexion and yellow garments are like a host of blue
lotus flowers blooming in a grove of yellow-flower-bearing kadamba trees.
-�r� I�vara Pur�

Text 19

kaly���n�� nidh�na� kal�-mala-mathana� p�vana� p�van�n��


p�theya� yan mumuk�o� sapad� para-pada-pr�ptaye procyam�nam
vi�r�ma-sth�nam eka� kav�-vara-vacas�� j�vana� sa�-jan�n��
b�ja� dharma-drumasya prabhavatu bhavat�� bh�taye k���a-n�ma

kaly���n�m-of an abundance of happinesses; nidh�nam-the reservoir; kal�-of


the Kal�-yuga; mala-of sins; mathanam-chasing away; p�vanam-the purifier;
p�van�n�m-of purifiers; p�theyam-the lunch; yat-which; mumuk�o�-of one aspiring for
liberation; sapad�-at once; para-pada-the supreme abode; pr�ptaye-for attaining;
procyam�nam-described; vi�r�ma-sth�nam-the pleasure garden; ekam-sole; kav�-os
saints, philosophers, and poets; vara-of the best; vacas�m-of the words; j�vanam-
the life; sat-jan�n�m-of the righteous; b�jam-the seed; dharma-of religion;
drumasya-of the tree; prabhavatu-may be; bhavat�m-of you; bh�taye-for the
auspiciousness; k���a-of Lord K���a; n�ma-the name.

May K���a's holy name, which is a reservoir of all transcendental happiness,


the destruction of Kal�-yuga's sins, the most purifying of all purifying things,
the saintly person's food as he traverses the path to the spiritual world, the
pleasure-garden where the voices of the greatest saints, philosophers, and poets
play, the life of the righteous, and the seed of the tree of religion, bring
transcendental auspiciousness to you all.
-author unknown

Text 20

vepante durit�ni moha-mahim� sammoham �lambate


�ata�ka� nakha-ra�jan�� kalayat� �r�-citragupta� k�t�
s�nanda� madhu-parka-sambh�ti-vidhou vedh�� karoty udyama�
vaktu� n�mn� tave�var�bhila�ite br�ma� kim anyat param

vepante-tremble; durit�ni-sins; moha-of illusion; mahim�-the glory; sammoham-


fainting; �lambate-attains; sa-with; �ta�kam-fear; nakha-ra�jan�m-the toenails;
kalayat�-observes; �r�-citragupta�-Yamar�ja's scribe Citragupta; k�t�-satisfied;
sa-withp; �nandam-bliss; madhu-parka-water and honey; sambh�t�-vidhau-in the
offering; vedh��-Lord Brahm�; karot�-does; udyamam-readiness; vaktum-to be spoken;
n�mn�-when the name; tava-of You; ��vara-O Supreme Personality of Godhead;
abhila�ite-is desired; br�ma�-we may say; kim-what?; anyat-else; param-more.

O Supreme Personality of Godhead, when someone desires to chant Your holy


name, sins tremble in fear, the glory of material illusion faints unconscious,
Yamar�ja's scribe Citragupta becomes happy and gazes at the chanter's toenails with
awe and reverence, and Lord Brahm� prepares madhu-parka to worship him. O Lord,
what more can we say than this?
-author unknown

Text 21

ka� pareta-nagar�-purandara�
ko bhavad atha tad�ya-ki�kara�
k���a-n�ma jagad-eka-ma�gala�
ka��ha-p��ham urar�-karot� cet

ka�-who?; pareta-nagar�-of the other world; purandara�-the king; ka�-who?;


bhavet-is; atha-then; tad�ya-of him; ki�kara�-the servant; k���a-of K���a; n�ma-the
holy name; jagat-in the world; eka-the sole; ma�galam-auspiciousness; ka��ha-of the
neck; p��ham-on the seat; urar�-karot�-places; cet-if.

Lord K���a's holy name is the only auspiciousness in this world. If one places
it on his neck, then what is Yamar�ja, the king of the other world, to him? What
are Yamar�ja's sevants to him?
-�r� Anand�c�rya

Text 22

ceto-darpana-m�rjana� bhava-mah�d�v�gni-nirv�pa�a�
�reya�-kairava-candrik�-vitara�a� vidy�-vadh�-j�vanam
�nand�mbudhi-vardhana� prati-pada� p�r��m�t�sv�dana�
sarv�tma-snapana� para� vijayate �r�-k���a-sa�k�rtanam

ceta�-of the heart; darpana-the mirror; m�rjanam-cleansing; bhava-of material


existance; mah�-d�v�gn�-the blazing forest fire; nirv�pa�am-extinguishing; �reya�-
of good fortune; kairava-the white lotus; candrik�-the moonshine; vita�am-
spreading; vidy�-of all education; vadh�-wife; j�vanam-the life; �nanda-of bliss;
ambudh�-the ocean; vardhanam-increasing; prat�-padam-at every step; p�r�a-am�ta-of
the full nectar; �sv�danam-giving a taste; sarva-for everyone; �tma-snapanam-
bathing of the self; param-transcendental; vijayate-let there be victory; �r�-
k���a-sa�k�rtanam-for the congregational chanting of the holy name of K���a.

Let there be all victory for the chanting of the holy name of Lord K���a,
which can cleanse the mirror of the heart and stop the miseries of the blazing fire
of material existence. That chanting is the waxing moon that spreads the white
lotus of good fortune for all living entities. It is the life and soul of all
education. The chanting of the holy name of K���a expands the blissful ocean of
transcendental life. It gives a cooling effect to everyone and enables one to taste
full nectar at every step.*
-Bhagav�n �r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Text 23

brahm����n�� ko�i-sa�khy�dhik�n�m
ai�varya� yac cetan� v� yad-a��a�
�virbh�ta� tan-maha� k���a-n�ma
tan me s�dhy�n s�dhana� j�vana� ca

brahmandanam-of universes; kot�-of millions; sa�khya-the number; adhikanam-


exceeding; aisvaryam-the opulence; yat-which; cetana-knowledge; va-or; yat-of
which; a�sa�-a portion; avirbh�tam-manifested; tat-of that; maha�-the glory; k���a-
of Lord K���a; n�ma-the name; tat-that; me-of me; sadhyam-the goal; sadhanam-the
means of attaining the goal; j�vanam-the life; ca-also.

If the opulence or knowledge of many millions of universes were clustered


together, they would hardly equal a small fragment of the glory of K���a's holy
name. K���a's holy name is my life. It is the goal of my life. It is the means I
will employ to attain the goal of my life.
-author unknown

Text 24

vi��or n�maiva pu�sa� �amalam apaharat pu�yam utp�dayac ca


brahm�di-sth�na-bhog�d viratim atha guro� �r�-pada-dvandva-bhaktim
tattva-j��nam� ca vi��or iha m�t�-janan�-bhr�nt�-b�jam� ca dagdhv�
samp�r��nanda-bodhe mahat� ca puru�a� sth�payitv� niv�ttam

vi��o�-of Lord Vi��u; n�ma-the holy name; eva-certainly; pumsa�-of a person;


samalam-sin; apaharat-removes; punyam-piety; utp�dayat-establishes; ca-and; brahma-
with Lord Brahma; �di-beginning; sthana-of the posts; bhogat-to the enjoyment;
viratim-indifference; atha-then; guro�-of the spiritual master; �r�-pada-of the
feet; dvandva-for the pair; bhaktim-devotion; tattva-of the truth; j��nam-
knowledge; ca-also; vi��o�-of Lord Vi��u; iha-here; m�t�-of death; janana-and
birth; bhrant�-the wandering; bijam-the seed; ca-also; dagdhva-burning; sampurna-
perfect and complete; �nanda-of transcendental bliss; bodhe-in awareness; mahat�-
great; ca-also; purusam-a person; sthapayitva-placing; niv�ttam-saintly.

Lord Vi��u's holy name removes sin, establishes piety, makes one disinterested
in the attempt to gain an exalted post like that of Lord Brahm�, grants devotion
for the lotus feet of the spiritual master, brings transcendental knowledge of Lord
Vi��u, burns the seed of repeated birth and death, and places the saintly devotee
in complete awareness of perfect transcendental bliss.
-�r� Vy�sa

Text 25
n�ma cint�ma�i� k���a�
caitanya-rasa-vigraha�
p�rna� �uddho nitya-mukto
'bhinnatv�n n�ma-n�mino�

n�ma�-the holy name; cint�ma�i�-transcendentally blissful giver of all


spiritual benedictions; k���a�-not different from K���a; caitanya-rasa-vigraha�-the
form of all transcendental mellows; p�r�a�-complete; �uddha�-pure, witout material
contamination; nitya-eternal; mukta�-liberated; abhinn-tv�t-due to not being
different; n�ma-of the holy name; n�mino�-and of the person who has the name.

The holy name of K���a is transcendentally blissful. It bestows all spiritual


benedictions, for it is K���a Himself, the reservoir of all pleasure. K���a's name
is complete, and it is the form of all transcendental mellows. It is not a material
name under any condition, and it is no less powerful than K���a Himself. Since
K���a's name is not contaminated by the material qualities, there is no question of
its being involved with m�y�. K���a's name is always liberated and spiritual; it is
never conditioned by the laws of material nature. This is because the name of K���a
and K���a Himself are identical.*
-�r� Vy�sa
Text 26

madhura-madhuram etan ma�gala� ma�gal�n��


sakala-nigama-vall�-sat-phala� cit-svar�pam
sak�d api parig�ta� �raddhay� helay� v�
bh�gu-vara nara-m�tra� t�rayet k���a-n�ma

madhura-of sweet things; madhuram-the sweetest; etat-this; ma�galam-most


auspicious; ma�galanam-of auspicious things; sakala-of all; nigama-the Vedic
literatures; vall�-of the vine; sat-phalam-the best fruit; cit-spiritual; svarupam-
in nature; sak�t-once; ap�-even; parigitam-chanted; sraddhaya-with faith; helaya-
with contempt; va-or; bhrgu-vara-O best of the Bhrgus; nara-matram-a person;
tarayet-delivers; k���a-of Lord K���a; n�ma-the name.

K���a's name is the sweetest of sweet things, the most auspicious of


auspicious things, the transcendental fruit of the vine of all Vedic literature. O
best of the Bh�gus, chanted even once, either with faith or contempt, it delivers
the chanter.
-�r� Vy�sa

Text 27

svarg�rth�y� vyavasitir asau d�nayaty eva lok�n


mok��pek�� janayat� jana� kevala� kle�a-bh�jam
yog�bhy�sa� parama-virasas t�d��ai� ki� pray�sai�
sarva� tyaktv� mama tu rasan� k���a k���et� rautu

svarga-the heavenly material realms; arth�y�-to attain; vyavasiti�-the


attempt; asau-this; d�nayat�-impoverishes; eva-certainly; lok�n-the worlds; mok�a-
for liberation; apek��-the desire; janayat�-makes; janam-a person; kevalam-only;
kle�a-of sufferings; bh�jam-the possessor; yoga-of yoga; abhy�sa�-the endeavors;
sarvam-all of them; tyaktv�-abandoning; mama-of me; tu-indeed; rasan�-the tongue;
k���a-K���a; k���a-K���a; it�-thus; rautu-may chant.

The attempt to attain the heavenly svarga planets impoverishes the entire
world. The desire to attain impersonal liberation brings only trouble. The regimen
of yoga is dry and tasteless. What is the use of endeavors like these? I will
abandon them all, and simply make my tongue chant "K���a, K���a".
-author unknown

Text 28

sad� sarvatr�ste nanu vimalam �dya� tava pada�


tath�py eka� stoka� na h� bhava-taro� p�tram abhinat
k�a�a� jihv�-grasta� tava tu bhagavan n�ma nikhila�
sa-m�la� sa�s�ra� kasat� katar�t sevyam anayo�

sada-always; sarvatra-everywhere; aste-is; nanu-it not?; vimalam-splendid;


adyam-spiritual; tava-Your; padam-effulgence; tath� ap�-still; ekam-one; stokam-
small; na-not; h�-indeed; bhava-of birth and death; taro�-from the tree; patram-a
leaf; abhinat-break�; k�a�am-for a moment; jihva-by the tongue; grastham-grasped;
tava-Your; tu-indeed; bhagavan-O Lord; n�ma-name; nikhilam-completely; sa-with;
mulam-the root; sa�saram-the cycle of repeated birth and death; kasat�-destroys;
katarat-which?; sevyam-should be accepted; anayo�-of the two.

O Lord, is Your impersonal spiritual effulgence not always present everywhere?


Even so, it has not been able to break even a single small leaf from the tree of
repeated birth and death. On the other hand, the moment Your holy name is taken by
the tongue it thoroughly shatters the tree of birth and death down to it's roots.
Of these two (the spiritual effulgence or the holy name): which should be served?
-�r� �r�dhara Sv�m�

Text 29

�k���i� k�ta-cetas�� sumanas�m ucc��ana� c��has�m


�ca�d�lam am�ka-loka-sulabho va�ya� ca mukti-�riya�
no dik��� na ca sat-kriy�� na ca pura�cary�� man�g �k�ate
mantro 'ya� rasan�-sp�g eva phalat� �r�-k���a-n�m�tmaka�

�k���i�-attraction; k�ta-cetas�m-of saintly persons; su-manas�m-of the most


liberal-minded; ucc��anam-annihilator; ca-also; a�has�m-of sinful reactions; �-
ca���lam-even to the ca���las; am�ka-except the dumb; loka-sulabha�-very easy to
achieve for all persons; va�ya�-full controller; ca-and; mukt�-�riya�-of the
opulence of liberation; no-not; d�k��m-initiation; na-not; ca-also; sat-kriy�m-
pious activities; na-not; ca-also; pura�cary�m-regulative principles before
initiation; man�k-slightly; �k�ate-depends upon; mantra�-mantra; ayam-this; rasan�-
tongue; sp�k-touching; eva-simply; phalat�-is fruitful; �r�-k���a-n�ma-�tmaka�-
consisting of the holy name of Lord K���a.

The holy name of Lord K���a is an attractive feature for many saintly liberal
people. It is the annihilator of all sinful reactions and is so powerful that save
for the dumb who cannot chant it, it is readily available to everyone, including
the lowest type of man, the ca���la. The holy name of K���a is the controller of
the opulence of liberation, and it is identical with K���a. Simply by touching the
holy name with one's tongue, immediately effects are produced. Chanting the holy
name does not depend on initiation, pious activities or the pura�cary� regulative
principles generally observed before initiation. The holy name does not wait for
all these activities. It is self-sufficient.*
-�r� Lak�m�dhara

Text 30

vicey�ni vic�ry��i
vicinty�ni puna� puna�
k�pa�asya dhan�n�va
tvan-n�m�ni bhavantu na�
vicey�ni-to be collected; vic�ry���-to be counted; vicinty�ni-to become the
object of thoughts; puna�-again; puna�-and again; k�pa�asya-of a miser; dh�n�ni-
the wealth; iva-like; tvat-of You; n�m�ni-the holy names; bhavantu-may become; na�-
for us.

O Lord, just as a miser continually collects, counts and remembers his money,
in the same way let us continually collect, count, and remember Your holy names,
-�r� Bhav�nanda

Text 31

n�mn�m ak�r� bahudh� nija-sarva-�aktis


tatr�rpit� niyamita� smara�e na k�la�
et�d��� tava k�p� bhagavan mam�pi
durdaivam �d��am ih�j�ni n�nur�ga�

n�mn�m-of the holy names of the Lord; ak�r�-manifested; bahudh�-various kinds;


nija-sarva-�akti�-all kinds of personal potency; tatra-in that; arpit�-bestowed;
niyamita�-restricted; smara�e-in remembering; na-not; k�la�-consideration of time;
et�d���-so much; tava-Your; k�p�-mercy; bhagavan-O Lord; mama-My; ap�-although;
durdaivam-misfortune; �d��am-such; iha-in this (the holy name); aj�ni-was born; na-
not; anur�ga�-attachment.

My Lord, O Supreme Personality of Godhead, in Your holy name there is all good
fortune for the living entity, and therefore You have many names, such as K���a and
Govinda, by which You expand Yourself. You have invested all Your potencies in
those names, and there are no hard and fast rules for remembering them. My dear
Lord, although You bestow such mercy upon the fallen, conditioned souls by
liberally teaching Your holy names, I am so unfortunate that I commit offenses
while chanting the holy name, and therefore I do not achieve attachment for
chanting.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

.fn 6
N�ma-k�rtana
Glorification of the Holy Names

Text 32

t�n�d api sunicena


taror iva sahi�nun�
am�nin� m�nadena
k�rtan�ya� sad� hari�

t���t-then downtrodden grass; sun�cena-being lower; taro�-than a tree; iva-


like; sahi�nun�-with tolerance; am�nin�-without being puffed up by false pride;
m�nadena-giving respect of all; k�rtan�ya�-to be chanted; sad�-always; hari�-the
holy name of the Lord.

One who thinks himself lower than the grass, who is more tolerant than a tree,
and who does not expect personal honor but is always prepared to give all respect
to others, can very easily always chant the holy name of the Lord.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Text 33

�r�-r�met� jan�rdanet� jagat�� n�thet� n�r�ya�ety


�nandet� day�paret� kamal�k�ntet� k���et� ca
�r�man-n�ma-mah�m�t�bdhi-lahar�-kallola-magna� muhur
muhyanta� galad-a�ru-netram ava�a� m�� n�tha nitya� kuru

�r�-rama-O �r� Rama; it�-thus; janardana-O Janardana; it�-thus; jagatam-of the


universes; n�tha-O Lord; it�-thus; narayana-O Narayana; it�-thus; �nanda-O bliss;
it�-thus; daya-para-O merciful one; it�-thus; kamala-of Laksmi; k�nta-O husband;
it�-thus; k���a-O K���a; it�-thus; ca-and; �r�mat-beautiful; n�ma-of names; maha-
great; am�ta-of nectar; abdh�-of the ocean; lahar�-kallola-in the waves; magnam-
plunged; muhu�-constantly; muhyantam-overwhelmed; galat-flowing; a�ru-tears;
netram-eyes; avasam-not free; mam-me; n�tha-O Lord; nityam-always; kuru-make.

"O �r� R�ma, O Jan�rdana (rescuer of the devotees), O Jagat�� N�tha (master
of the universe), O N�r�ya�a, O Ananda (personified transcendental bliss), O
Day�para (merciful one), O Kamal�k�nta (husband of Lak�m�), O K���a," O Lord please
make me become overwhelmed with tears streaming from my eyes as I repeatedly plunge
into the waves of the great nectar ocean of these beautiful transcendental names.
-�r� Lak�m�dhara

Text 34

�r�-k�nta k���a karu��maya ka�ja-n�bha


kaivalya-vallabha mukunda mur�ntaketi
n�m�vali� vimala-mauktika-h�ra-lak�mi
l�va�ya-va�cana-kari� karav��i ka��he

�r�-of the goddess of fortune; k�nta-O husband; k���a-O K���a; karuna-maya-


merciful; ka�ja-lotus; nabha-navel; kaivalya-vallabha-O liberator; mukunda-O
Mukunda; mura-of the Mura demon; antaka-O death; it�-thus; n�ma-of holy names;
avalim-the series; vimala-splendid; mauktika-of pearls; hara-of a necklace; lak�m�-
lavanya-the great beauty; va�cana-theft; karim-doing; karav�ni-let me place;
ka��he-on the neck.

Calling out, {.sy 168�O �r�k�nta (husband of the goddess of fortune), O K���a,
(all-attractive one), O Karu��maya (merciful one), O Ka�jan�bha (whose navel is
like a lotus flower), O Kaivalyavallabha (O master of liberation), O Mukunda (giver
of liberation), O Mur�ntaka (killer of the Mura demon)," I will place upon my neck
the Lord's holy names, which eclipse the beauty of a splendid strand of pearls.
-�r� Lak�m�dhara

Text 35

k���a r�ma mukunda v�mana v�sudeva jagad-guro


matsya kacchapa n�rasi�ha var�ha r�ghava p�h� m�m
deva-d�nava-n�rad�di-munindra-vandya day�-nidhe
devak�-suta deh� me tava p�da-bhakti� aca�cal�m

k���a-O K���a; r�ma-O Balar�ma; mukunda-O Mukunda; v�mana-O V�mana; v�sudeva-O


V�sudeva; jagat-of the universe; guro-O master; matsya-O Matsya; kacchapa-O K�rma;
n�rasi�ha-O N�si�ha; var�ha-O Var�ha; r�ghava-O R�macandra; p�h�-please protect;
m�m-me; deva-by the demigods; d�nava-demons; n�rada-with N�rada; �d�-beginning;
mun�-of sages; indra-by the leaders; vandya-worshiped; day�-of mercy; nidhe-O
ocean; devak�-of Devak�; suta-O son; deh�-please grant; me-to me; tava-of You;
p�da-for the feet; bhaktim-devotion; aca�cal�m-unwavering.

O K���a, O Balar�ma, O Mukunda, O V�mana, O V�sudeva, O master of the


universe, O Matsya, O K�rma, O N�si�ha, O Var�ha, O R�macandra, please protect me.
O Lord worshiped by the demigods, demons, and great sages who have N�rada as their
leader, O ocean of mercy, O son of Devak�, please grant me unwavering devotion to
Your feet,
-author unknown
Text 36

he gop�laka he k�p�-jala-nidhe he sindhu-kany�-pate


he ka�s�ntaka he gajendra-karu��-p�r��a he m�dhava
he r�m�nuja he jagat-traya-guro he pu��ar�k�k�a m��
he gop�jana-n�tha p�laya para� j�n�mi na tv�� vin�

he-O; gopalaka-transcendental cowherd boy; he-O; krpa-of mercy; jala-nidhe-O


ocean; he-O; sindhu-kanya-of Lak�m� (the daughter of the ocean); pate-husband; he-
O; ka�sa-of Ka�sa; antaka-killer; he-O; gajendra-to Gajendra; karuna-parina-
merciful; he-O; m�dhava-M�dhava; he-O; rama-of Balarama; anuja-younger brother; he-
O; jagat-worlds; traya-three; guro-spiritual master; he-O; pundarika-lotus; ak�a-
eyes; mam-me; he-O; gop�-jana-of the gop�s; n�tha-O master; palaya-please protect;
param-superior; jan�mi-I understand; na-not; tvam-You; vina-except for.

O Gop�laka (cowherd boy), O K�p�-jala-nidh� (ocean of mercy), O Sindhukany�-


pat� (husband of Lak�m�), O Ka�s�ntaka (killer of Ka�sa), O Gajendra-karu�a-par��a
(merciful savior of Gajendra), O M�dhava (husband of Lak�m�), O R�m�nuja (younger
brother of Balar�ma, O Jagat-traya-guru (master of the three worlds), O
Pu��ar�k�k�a (lotus-eyed), O Gop�jana-n�tha (master of the gop�s), please protect
me. I do not accept anyone as the Supreme, except for You.
-�r� Vai��ava

Text 37

�r�-n�r�ya�a pu��ar�ka-nayana �r�-r�ma s�t�-pate


govind�cyuta nandanandana mukund�nanda d�modara
vi��o r�ghava v�sudeva n�hare devendra-c���ma�e
sa�s�r�r�ava-kar�adh�raka hare �r�-k���a tubhya� nama�

�r�-narayana-O �r� Narayana; pundarika-lotus; nayana-eyes; �r�-rama-O �r�


Rama; sita-of Sita; pate-O husband; govinda-O Govinda; acyuta-O infallible one;
nanda-of Nanda Maharaja; nandana-O son; mukunda-O Mukunda; �nanda-O bliss;
damodara-O Damodara; vi��o-O Vi��u; raghava-O Raghava; vasudeva-O Vasudeva; nrhare-
O Nrsimha; deva-of the devas; indra-of the king; cuda-mane-O crest jewel; sa�sara-
of repeated birth and death; ar�ava-in the ocean; kar�adharaka-O captain; hare-O
Hari; �r�-k���a-O �r� K���a; tubhyam-to You; nama�-obeisances.

O �r� N�r�ya�a, O Pu��ar�ka-nayana (lotus-eyed one), O �r� R�ma, O S�t�-pat�


(husband of S�t�), O Govinda, O Acyuta (infallible one), O Nandanandana (son of
Nanda) O Mukunda (giver of liberation), O Ananda (personified transcendental
bliss), O D�modara (whose waist Mother Ya�od� bound with a rope), O Vi��u, O
R�ghava (descendant of Raghu), O V�sudeva (son of Vasudeva), O N�har� (N�si�ha), O
Devendra-c���ma�i (crest jewel of the demigods), O Sa�s�r�r�ava-kar�adh�raka
(captain of the boat for crossing the ocean of repeated birth and death), O Hari, O
�r� K���a, I offer my respectful obeisances to You.
-�r� Vai��ava

Text 38

bha���re�a �ikha��a-ma��ana vara �r�kha��a-lipt��ga he


v�nd�ra�ya-purandara sphurad-amandend�vara-�y�mala
k�lind�-priya nanda-nandana par�nand�ravindek�a�a
�r�-govinda mukunda sundara-tano m�� d�nam �nandaya

bhandira-of Bhandiravana; isa-O Lord; sikhanda-with a peacock feather;


mandana-decorated; vara-O Supreme Personality of Godhead; �r�khanda-with sandalwood
paste; lipta-anointed; a�ga-whose limbs; he-O; v�nd�-aranya-of V�nd�vana forest;
purandara-O king; sphurat-glistening; amanda-great; indivara-blue lotus flower;
�y�mala-dark; k�lind�-of the Yamuna� River; priya-fond; nanda-of Nanda Maharaja;
nandana-O son; para-transcendental; �nanda-with bliss; aravinda-lotus; �k�a�a-whose
eyes; �r�-govinda-O �r� Govinda; mukunda-O Mukunda; sundara-handsome; tano-whose
form; mam-me; dinam-poor; �nandaya-please delight.

O Bh����re�a (master of Bh����ravana), O �ikha��a-ma��ana (decorated with


peacock feathers), O Vara (Supreme Personality of Godhead), O �r�kha��a-lipt��ga
(whose limbs are anointed with sandalwood paste), O V�nd�ra�ya-purandara (king of
V�nd�vana), O Sphurad-amandend�vara-�y�mala (whose dark complexion is like a
splendid blue lotus flower), O K�lind�-priya (fond of the Yamun�), O Nandanandana
(son of Nanda), O Par�nanda (filled with transcendental bliss), O Aravindek�a�a
(lotus-eyed), O �r� Govinda, O Mukunda, O Sundara-tanu (handsome one), to me, who
am very poor and weak, please give transcendental bliss.
-�r� Gop�la Bha��a

�r� K���a-kath�-m�h�tmya
The Glory of the Description of �r� K���a

Text 39

�rutam apy aupani�ada�


d�re hari-kath�m�t�t
yan na sant� dravac-citta-
kamp��ru-pulak�daya�

�rutam-the knowledge; ap�-even; aupani�adam-of the Upani�ads; dure-is far


away; har�-of Lord Hari; katha-of the narrations; am�tat-from the nectar; yat-
because; na-not; sant�-are; dravat-melting; citta-heart; kampa-trembling; a�ru-
tears; pulaka-hairs standing up; �daya�-beginning with.

The message of the Upani�ads is far from the nectar topics of Lord Hari. For
this reason Upani�ad study does not result in a heart melting with emotion, or
ecstatic symptoms, such as trembling, shedding tears, or standing of hairs on the
body.
-�r� Bhagav�n Vy�sapada

Text 40

naiva divya-sukha-bhogam arthaye


n�pavargam api n�tha k�maye
y�ntu kar�a-vivara� dine dine
k���a-keli-carit�m�t�ni me

na-not; eva-certainly; divya-of the demigods; sukha-of the happiness; bhogam-


the enjoyment; arthaye-I pray; na-not; apavargam-liberation; ap�-even; n�tha-O
Lord; k�maye-I desire; y�ntu-may travel; kar�a-vivaram-to the ears; dine-day; dine-
after day; k���a-of K���a; kel�-carita-of the pastimes; am�t�ni-the nectar; me-my.

O Lord, I do not pray for heavenly happiness, I do not even aspire for
liberation. Simply let, day after day, the nectar of K���a's transcendental
pastimes flood my ears,
-�r� Kaviratna

Text 41

aho ahobhir na kaler vid�yate


sudh�-su-dh�r�-madhura� pade pade
dine dine candana-candra-��tala�
ya�o ya�od�-tanayasya g�yate

aho-Oh!; ahobhir-by the days; na-not; kale�-of Kal�-yuga; vid�yate-is


troubled; sudh�-of nectar; su-a great; dh�r�-torrent; madhuram-sweet; pade-step;
pade-after step; dine-day; dine-after day; candana-of sandalwood; candra-and
camphor; ��talam-cooling; ya�a�-the glory; ya�od�-of Ya�od�; tanayasya-of the son;
g�yate-is sung.

One who daily sings the glories of Ya�od�'s son, K���a, which are cooling as
sandalwood and camphor, is not troubled by the days of Kal�-yuga. For him at every
step there is a torrential flood of the sweetest nectar.
-�r� Kaviratna

Text 42

nandanandana-kai�ora-
l�l�m�ta-mah�mbudhau
nimagn�n�� kim asm�ka�
nirv��a-lava��mbhas�

nand�nandana-of Lord K���a, the son of Mah�r�ja Nanda; kai�ora-youthful; l�l�-


of pastimes; am�ta-of nectar; mah�-great; ambudhau-in the ocean; nimagn�n�m-
immersed; kim-what is the use?; asm�kam-for us; nirv��a-of impersonal liberation;
lava�a-salt; ambhas�-with the water.

We have now plunged into the great nectar-ocean of the transcendental youthful
pastimes of Mah�r�ja Nanda's son, K���a. Of what use to us is the salt-water of
impersonal liberation?
-�r� Y�davendra Pur�

Text 43

tvat-kath�m�ta-p�thodhau
viharanto maha-muda�
kurvant� k�tina� kecic
catur-varga� t��opanam

tvat-of You; kath�-of the topics; am�ta-of the nectar; p�thodhau-in the ocean;
viharanta�-playing; mah�-with great; muda�-happiness; kurvant�-make; k�tina�-the
saintly devotees; kecit-some; catu�-vargam-the four goals of life; t��a-a blade of
straw; upamam-like.

O Lord, the saintly devotees, who happily play in the nectar ocean of the
narration of Your glories, think the four puru��rthas (material piety, economic
development, sense-gratification, and liberation) insignificant as a blade of
grass.
-�r� �r�dhara Sv�m�

Text 44

tatraiva ga�g� yamun� ca tatra


god�var� tatra sarasvat� ca
sarv��� t�rth�ni vasant� tatra
yatr�cyutod�ra-kath�-prasa�ga�

tatra-there; eva-certainly; ga�g�-the Ganges River; yamun�-the Yamun� River;


ca-also; tatra-there; god�var�-the God�var� River; tatra-there; sarasvat�-the
Sarasvat� River; ca-and; sarv���-all; t�rth�ni-holy places of pilgrimage; vasant�-
reside; tatra-there; yatra-where; acyuta-of the infallible Supreme Personality of
Godhead; ud�ra-the transcendental; kath�-topics; prasa�ga�-contact.

The Ganges, Yamun�, God�var�, Sarasvat�, as well as all holy places of


pilgrimage, stay where the transcendental topics of the infallible Supreme
Personality of Godhead are narrated,
-author Unknown

Text 45

y� bhukti-lak�m�r bhuv� k�muk�n��


y� mukti-lak�m�r h�d� yoga-bh�j�m
y�nanda-lak�m� rasikendra-maule�
s� k�pi l�l�vatu m�dhavasya

ya-which; bhukt�-of sense-gratification; lak�m��-the opulence; bhuv�-in this


world; kamukanam-of hedonist; ya-which; mukt�-of liberation; lak�m��-the opulence;
h�d�-in the hearts; yoga-bhajam-of the yogis; ya-which; �nanda-of trancendental
bliss; lak�m��-the opulence; rasika-indra-of those expert at relishing mellows;
maule�-of the crown; sa-that; ka ap�-a certain; l�l�-transcendental pastimes;
avatu-may protect; m�dhavasya-of Lord K���a.

May Lord M�dhava's pastimes, which bring a sense-pleasure stronger than that
experienced by the hedonists, a liberation more real than that felt by the yog�s in
their hearts, and a bliss more intense than that tasted by the most experts
drinkers of nectar, protect you.
-�r� �a�kara

�r� K���a-dhy�na
Meditation on �r� K���a

Text 46

phullend�vara-k�ntim indu-vadana� barh�vata�sa-priya�


�r�vat�a�kam ud�ra-kaustubha-dhara� p�t�mbara� sundaram
gop�n�� nayanotpal�rcita-tanu� go-gopa-sa�gh�v�ta�
govinda� kala-ve�u-v�dana-para� divy��ga-bh��a� bhaje

phulla-blossoming; indivara-of a blue lotus flower; k�ntim-the splendor; indu-


moon; vadanam-whose face; barha-peacock feather; avata�sa-crown; priyam-fond;
�r�vatsa-of �r�vatsa; a�kam-with mark; udara-large; kaustubha-Kaustubha gem;
dharam-wearing; pita-yellow; ambaram-with garments; sundaram-handsome; gop�nam-of
the gop�s; nayana-of the eyes; utpala-with the lotus flowers; arcita-worshiped;
tanum-whose transcendental form; go-of surabh� cows; gopa-and gopas; sa�gha-with
the hosts; av�tam-accompanied; govindam-K���a; kala-sweet; ve�u-of the flute;
vadana-of music; param-fond; divya-glittering; a�ga-of the body; bhusam-with
ornaments; bhaje-I worship.

I worship Lord Govinda, whose complexion is the color of a blooming blue lotus
flower, whose His face is like the moon, who is fond of wearing a peacock feather
crown, who bears the mark of �r�vatsa, who wears a great Kaustubha gem, who is
dressed in yellow garments, whose handsome form is worshiped with offerings of the
lotus flowers that are the gop�s glances, who is accompanied by a host of surabh�
cows and gopas, who is fond of sweetly playing the flute, and whose transcendental
body is decorated with glittering ornaments.
-�r� ��rad�k�ra

Text 47

a�s�lambita-v�ma-ku��ala-dhara� mandonnata-bhr�-lata�
ki�cit-ku�cita-komal�dhara-puta� s�ci-pras�rek�a�am
�lol��guli-pallavair muralik�m �p�rayanta� mud�
m�le kalpa-taros tri-bha�ga-lalita� dhyaye� jagan-mohanam

a�sa-to His shoulders; �lambita-reaching; v�ma-splendid; ku��ala-earrings;


dharam-wearing; manda-gently; unnata-raised; bhr�-of eyebrows; latam-vines; ki�cit-
somewhat; ku�cita-curved; komala-delicate; adhara-pu�am-lips; s�c�-crooked;
pras�ra-�k�a�am-glances; �lola-moving; a�gul�-of fingers; pallavai�-by the
blossoms; muralik�m-the flute; �p�rayantam-filling; mud�-with happiness; m�le-at
the root; kalpa-taro�-of a kalpa-v�k�a tree; tr�-three; bha�ga-bending; lalitam-
charming; dhy�yet-may meditate; jagat-the universe; mohanam-enchanting.

His handsome form gracefully bending in three places, His beautiful earrings
reaching to His shoulders, the vines of His eyebrows slightly raised, His glance
crooked, His delicate lips slightly pursed, and His flower-blossom fingers moving
restlessly, K���a happily enchants the entire world as He fills His flute with
music under a kalpa-v�k�a tree. In this way one may meditate on Lord K���a,
-author Unknown

Text 48

adhare vinihita� va�sa�


campaka-kusumena kalpitotta�sam
vinatam dadh�na� a�sa�
v�ma� satata� nam�mi jita-ka�sam

adhare-on His lips; vinihitam-placed; va�sam-the flute; campaka-kusumena-with


campaka flowers; kalpita-fashioned; utta�sam-a garland; vinatam-bending; dadh�nam-
wearing; a�sam-shoulders; v�mam-graceful; satatam-eternally; nam�mi-I offer my
respectful obeisances; jita-who defeated; ka�sam-Ka�sa.

A garland of campaka flowers resting on His gracefully sloping shoulders,


K���a places the flute to His lips. I eternally offer my respectful obeisances to
K���a, who was victorious over Ka�sa.
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Text 49

vyatyasta-p�da-kamala� lalita-tri-bha�gi-
saubh�gyam a�sa-viral�-k�ta-ke�a-p��am
pi�ch�vata�sam urar�-k�ta-va��a-n�lam
avy�ja-mohanam upaim� k�p�-vi�e�am

vyatyasta-crossed; p�da-feet; kamalam-lotus; lalita-graceful; tr�-three;


bha�g�-bending; saubh�gyam-handsomeness; a�sa-on the shoulders; viral�-k�ta-
disveheled; ke�a-p��am-hair; pi�cha-peacock feather; avata�sam-crown; urar�-k�ta-
taken; va��a-n�lam-the flute; avy�ja-of simplicity; mohanam-with charm; upaim�-I
worship; k�p�-vi�e�am-very merciful.

His loosened hair crowned with a peacock-feather and flowing over His
shoulders, His handsome form bending in three places, and His feet crossing as He
dances, merciful and charming K���a plays His flute. Such is the Lord whom I
worship.
-�r� N�rada

Bhakta-v�tsalyam
Love For the Devotees

Text 50
atandrita-cam�pati-prahita-hastam asv�-k�ta-
pra��ta-ma�i-p�duka� kim it� vism�t�nta�puram
av�hana-pari�kriya� pataga-r�jam �rohatta�
kar�-pravara-b��hite bhagavatas tvar�ya� nama�

atandrita-vigilant; camupat�-by the general; prahita-offered; hastam-hand;


asv�-k�ta-not accepted; pranita-made; m�ni-of jewels; padukam-sandal; kim-why?;
it�-thus; vism�ta-forgotten; anta�-puram-within the palace; avahana-without a
carrier; pariskriyam-decorated; pataga-rajam-Garuda, the king of birds; arohata�-
climbing; kar�-of elephants; pravara-the best; brmhite-in the expansive trumpeting;
bhagavata�-of the Supreme Personality of Godhead; tvaraya�-to the speed; nama�-
obeisances.

Carrying Lord K���a, undecorated, saying "Why?" as he rejects the jewel


sandals a military commander offers in his hand, and forgetting that they are
inside the palace, the bird-king Garu�a suddenly leaves, making a sound like the
trumpeting of elephants. I offer my respectful obeisances to the Lord's swift
departure.
-�r� Dak�i��tya

Draupad�-tr��e tad-v�kyam
Draupad�'s Appeal for Protection

Text 51

tamas� ravir ivodyan majjat�m �plav�n��


plava iva t��it�n�� sv�du-var��va megha�
nidhir iva nidhan�n�� t�vra-du�kh�may�n��
bhi�ag iva ku�ala� no d�tum �y�t� �auri�

tamas�-in the darkness; ravi�-the sun; iva-like; udyan-rising; majjatam-


drowing; aplavanam-without a boat; plava�-a boat; iva-like; trsitanam-dying of
thirst; svadu-sweet; vars�-with rain; iva-like; megha�-a cloud; nidhi�-wealth; iva-
like; nidhanam-of the poverty-stricken; tivra-sharp; duhkha-with pain; amayanam-of
the diseased; bhisak-a physician; iva-like; kusalam-auspiciousness; na�-to us;
datum-to give; ayat�-comes; sauri�-K���a.

Lord K���a, who is like a sun rising in the darkness, like a boat to the
drowning, like a sweet raincloud to those dying of thirst, like fabulous wealth to
the poverty-stricken, and like an infallible physician to those afflicted with the
most painful disease, has come to grant auspiciousness to us.
-�r� Vy�sa

Bhakt�n�m m�h�tmyam
The Glory of the Devotees

Text 52

prahl�da-n�rada-par��ara-pu��ar�ka-
vy�s�mbar��a-�uka-�aunaka-bh��ma-dalbhy�n
rukm��gadoddhava-vibh��a�a-ph�lgun�d�n
pu�y�n im�n parama-bh�gavat�n nam�mi

prahlada-Prahlada; narada-Narada; parasara-Parasara; pundarika-Pundarika;


vyasa-Vyasa; ambarisa-Ambarisa; suka-Suka; saunaka-Saunaka; bhisma-Bhisma;
dalbhyan-Dalbhya; rukma�gada-Rukma�gada; uddhava-Uddhava; vibhisana-Vibhisana;
phalguna-Arjuna; �din-beginning with; punyan-saintly; iman-to these; parama-
transcendental; bhagavatan-devotees of the Lord; nam�mi-I offer respectful
obeisances.

To the saintly devotees of the Lord, headed by Prahl�da, N�rada, Par��ara,


Pu��ar�ka, Vy�sa, Ambar��a, �uka, �aunaka, Bh��ma, Dalbhya, Rukm��gada, Uddhava,
Vibh��a�a, and Arjuna, I offer my respectful obeisances.
-�r� Dak�i��tya

Text 53

�r�-vi��o� �rava�e par�k�id abhavad vaiy�saki� k�rtane


prahl�da� smara�e tad-a�ghr�-bhajane lak�mi� p�thu� p�jane
akr�ras t� abhivandane kapi-patir d�sye 'tha sakhye 'rjuna�
sarvasv�tma-nivedane balir abh�t k����ptir e��� par�

�r�-vi��o�-of Lord �r� Vi��u; �rava�e-in hearing; par�k�it-King Par�k�it,


known also as Vi��ur�ta, or one who is protected by Lord Vi��u; abhavat-was;
vaiy�saki�-�ukadeva Gosv�m�; k�rtane-in reciting �r�mad-Bh�gavatam; prahl�da�-
Mah�r�ja Prahl�da; smarane-in remembering; tat-a�ghr�-of Lord Vi��u's lotus feet;
bhajane-in serving; lak�m��-the goddess of fortune; p�thu�-Mah�r�ja P�thu; p�jane-
in worshiping the Deity of the Lord; akr�ra�-Akr�ra; tu-but; abhivandane-in
offering prayers; kap�-pati�-Hanum��j�, or Vajr�gaj�; d�sye-in servitude to Lord
R�macandra; atha-moreover; sakhye-in friendship; arjuna�-Arjuna; sarvasva-�tma-
nivedane-in fully dedicating oneself; bali�-Mah�r�ja Bali; abh�t-was; k���a-�pti�-
the achievement of lotus feet of Lord K���a; e��m-of all of them; par�-
transcendental.

Mah�r�ja Par�k�it attained the highest perfection, shelter at Lord K���a's


lotus feet, simply by hearing about Lord Vi��u. �ukadeva Gosv�m� attained
perfection simply by reciting �r�mad-Bh�gavatam. Prahl�da Mah�r�ja attained
perfection by remembering the Lord. The goddess of fortune attained perfection by
massaging the transcendental legs of Mah�-Vi��u. Mah�r�ja P�thu attained perfection
by worshiping the Deity, and Akr�ra attained perfection by offering prayers unto
the Lord. Vajr��gaj� [Hanum�n� attained perfection by rendering service to Lord
R�macandra, and Arjuna attained perfection simply by being K���a's friend. Bal�
Mah�r�ja attained perfection by dedicating everything to the lotus feet of K���a.*
-author unknown

Text 54

tebhyo namo 'stu bhava-v�ridhi-j�r�a-pa�ka-


sammagna-mok�a�a-vicak�a�a-p�dukebhya�
k���et� var�a-yugala-�rava�ena ye��m
�nandathur bhavat� nartita-roma-v�nda�

tebhya�-to them; nama�-obeisances; astu-let there be; bhava-of repeated birth


and death; v�ridh�-of the ocean; j�r�a-in the festering; pa�ka-mud; sammagna-stuck;
mok�a�a-releasing; vicak�a�a-expert; p�dukebhya�-with their sandals; k���a-K���a;
it�-thus; var�a-of syllables; yugala-the pair; �rava�ena-by hearing; ye��m-of whom;
�nandathu�-in bliss; bhavat�-become; nartita-dancing; roma-v�nda�-hairs standing
up.

I offer my respectful obeisances to the devotees of the Lord. Simply by


hearing the two syllables "K���a", their
bodily hairs stand up in ecstasy and they become moved to dance
in ecstatic bliss. With their sandals they expertly extricate
the fallen souls deeply sunk in the fetid mud of the ocean of
repeated birth and death.
-�r� Autkala
Text 55

hari-sm�ty-�hl�da-stimita-manaso yasya k�tina�


sa-rom��ca� k�ya� nayanam api s�nanda-sal�l�m
tam ev�candr�rka� vaha puru�a-dhaureyam avane
kim anyais tair bh�rair yama-sadana-gaty �gati-parai�

har�-of Lord K���a; sm�t�-by the memory; �hl�da-by bliss; stimita-overwhelmed;


manasa�-heart; yasya-whose; k�tina�-the devotee; sa-with; rom��ca�-hairs standing
up; k�ya�-body; nayanam-eyes; ap�-also; sa-with; �nanda-of joy; sal�l�m-tears; tam-
him; eva-certainly; �candra-as long as there is a moon; arkam-and a sun; vaha-
please carry; puru�a-of men; dhaureyam-the best; avane-O earth; kim-what is the
use?; anyai�-of others; tai�-them; bh�rai�-burdens; yama-of Yamaraja; sadana-to the
abode; gat�-going; �gat�-coming; parai�-intently.

By remembering Lord Hari, the devotees hearts become overwhelmed with bliss,
their bodily hairs stand erect, and their eyes become filled with tears of joy. O
earth, these devotees are the best of men. Please carefully maintain them for long
as the sun and the moon shine in the sky. What is the use of your carefully
maintaining those other burdensome persons who are simply intent on coming and
going to and from the house of Yamar�ja?
-�r� Sarv�nanda

Text 56

tvad-bhakta� sarit�� pati� culukavat khadyotavad bh�skara�


merum pa�yat� lo��ravat kim apara� bh�me� pati� bh�ty�vat
cint�ratna-caya� �il�-sakala vat kalpa-druma� ka��avat
sa�s�ra� t��a-r��ivat kim apara� deha� nija� bh�ravat

tvat-of You; bhakta�-the devotee; sarita�-of rivers; patim-the king; culuka-a


handful of water; vat-like; khadyota-a firefly; vat-like; bh�skaram-the sun; merum-
Mount Meru; pa�yat�-sees; lo��ra-a clod; vat-like; kim-what?; aparam-further;
bh�me�-of the earth; patim-the emperor; bh�tya-a servant; vat-like; cint�ratna-of
precious jewels; cayam-a host; �il�-of a rock; sakala-a portion; vat-like; kalpa-
drumam-a kalpa-druma tree; ka��a-wood; vat-like; sa�saram-the world; t��a-r���-
straw; vat-like; kim-what?; aparam-further; deham-body; nijam-own; bh�ra-a burden;
vat-like.

O Lord, Your devotee sees the king of rivers as a handful of water, the sun a
firefly, Mount Meru a clump of earth, the emperor of the world a servant, a
multitude of cint�ma�i jewels simply pebbles, a valuable kalpa-druma tree a mere
stick, the entire world a bunch of straw, and his onw body a burden only.
-�r� Sarvaj�a

Text 57

m�m��s�-rajas� mal�masa-d���� t�van na dh�r �svare


garvodarka-ku-karka�a-dhiy�� d�re 'p� vart� hare�
j�nanto 'p� na j�nate �ruti-mukha� �r�-ra�gi-sa�g�d �te
su-sv�du� parive�ayanty api rasam gurv� na darv� sp��et

m�m��s�-of the karma-m�m��s� philosophy; rajas�-by the dust; mal�masa-dirtied;


d���m-whose eyes; t�vat-then; na-not; dh��-the consciousness; ��vare-on the Supreme
Personality of Godhead; garva-of pride; udarka-the conclusion; ku-bad; tarka-logic;
karka�a-hard; dhiy�m-whose minds; d�re-far away; ap�-also; vart�-the topics; hare�-
of Lord K���a; j�nanta�-understanding; ap�-although; na-do not; j�nate-understand;
�rut�-mukham-the Vedas; �r�-ra�g�-of Lord K���a, who enjoys pastimes with the
goddess of fortune; sa�g�t-of the contact; �te-bereft; su-very; sv�dum-sweet;
parive�ayant�-distributing; ap�-even; rasam-nectar; gurv�-a great ladle; na-not;
darv�-their own spoon; sp�set-touches.

They whose eyes are blinded by the dust of the Karma-m�m��s� philosophy cannot
fi� their hearts on the Supreme Personality of Godhead. They whose intelligence is
atrophied by illogical conclusions dictated by pride stay far away from the topics
of Lord Hari. They who understand the Vedas but cannot become devotees of Lord
K���a do not actually understand the Vedas. Distributing the sweetest nectar with a
great ladle, these persons will not touch it with their own spoon.
-�r� M�dhava Sarasvat�

Text 58

j��n�valambak�� kecit
kecit karm�valambak��
vaya� tu hari-d�s�n��
p�da-tr���valambak��

j��na-of knowledge; avalambak��-taking shelter; kecit-some; kecit-some; karma-


of fruitive action; avalambak��-taking shelter; vayam-we; tu-but; har�-of Lord
K���a; d�s�n�m-of the servants; p�da-of the feet; tr��a-the shelter; avalambak��-
taking shelter.

Some are inclined to speculative knowledge and other are inclined to fruitive
work. We, however, are inclined to take shelter of the lotus feet of Lord Hari's
servants.
-�r� M�dhava Sarasvat�

Text 59

n�m�ni pra�ayena te suk�tin�� tanvant� tu��otsava�


dh�m�ni prathayant� hanta jalada-�y�m�ni netr��janam
s�m�ni �ruti-�a�kul�m muralik�-j�t�ny ala�kurvate
ka��n�v�ta-cetas�m iha vibho n���pi na� �obhate

n�m�ni-the names; pra�ayena-with love; te-of You; suk�tin�m-of the saintly


devotees; tanvant�-manifest; tu��a-for the mouth; utsavam-a jubilant festival;
dh�m�ni� the bodily splendor; prathayant�-manifests; hanta-indeed; jalada-of a
raincloud; �y�m�ni-the dark color; netra-for the eyes; a�janam-ointment; s�m�ni-the
music; �rut�-�a�kul�m-the ears; muralik�-from the flute; j�t�ni� produced;
ala�kurvate-decorates; k�ma-in material sense-gratification; an�v�ta-not finding
happiness; cetas�m-in our hearts; iha-here; vibho-O almighty Lord; na-does not;
���-material desire; ap�-also; na�-to us; �obhate-appear beautiful.

Now that we have become Your devotees, Your holy names have affectionately
created a jubilant festival in our mouths. Your bodily splendor, like a dark
raincloud, has become the black ointment of our eyes, and the music of Your flute
has become the ornament of our ears. We no longer take pleasure in material
desires. O Almighty Lord, material desires no longer appear beautiful to us.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 60

sa�s�r�mbhas� sambh�ta-bhrama-bhare gambh�ra-t�pa-traya-


gr�he��bhig�h�tam ugra-gatin� kro�antam antar-bhay�t
d�pre��dya sudar�anena vibudha-kl�nti-cchid�k�ri��
cint�-santatat�-ruddham uddhara hare mac-citta-dant��varam

sa�s�ra-of repeated birth and death; ambhas�-in the waters; sambh�ta-held;


bhrama-of illusions; bhare-in the bewilderment; gambh�ra-deep; t�pa-of miseries;
traya-threefold; gr�he�a-by the crocodile; abhig�h�tam-grasped; ugra-gatin�-
ferocious; kro�antam-crying; anta�-within; bhay�t-out of fear; d�pre�a-glowing;
adya-now; sudar�anena-with the Sudar�ana cakra; vibudha-of the demigods; kl�nt�-the
sufferings; chid�k�ri��-cutting; cint�-of anxieties; santatat�-by a host; ruddham-
overwhelmed; uddhara-please rescue; hare-O K���a; mat-of me; citta-of the mind;
dant��varam-the elephant.

The elephant of my mind is drowning in the waters of material illusion.


Strongly held by the ferocious crocodile of the threefold miseries, it anxiously
cries with fear in its heart. O Lord Hari, please rescue it with Your glowing
Sudar�ana cakra, which cuts the sufferings of the demigods to pieces.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 61

viv�ta-vividha-b�dhe bhr�nti-veg�d ag�dhe


balavat� bhava-p�re majjato me vid�re
a�ara�a-ga�a-bandho h� k�p�-kaumud�ndo
sak�d ak�ta-vilamba� deh� hast�valambam

viv�ta-manifested; vividha-various; b�dhe-sufferings; bhr�nt�-of the whirpool;


veg�t-by the force; ag�dhe-fathomless; balavat�-powerful; bhava-of repeated birth
and death; p�re-in the ocean; majjata�-drowning; me-me; vid�re-far; a�ar�a-ga�a-of
those who have no shelter; bandho-O friend; h�-O; k�p�-of mercy; kaumud�-
moonlight; indo-O moon; sak�t-this one; ak�ta-without; vilambam-delay; deh�-please
give; hasta-of Your hand; avalambam-the extension.

I am drowning in the painful, fathomless whirlpool of repeated birth and


death. O Lord, O friend of the shelterless, O effulgent moon of mercy, please, this
one time, quickly extend Your hand to save me.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 62

n�tyan v�yu-vigh�r�itai� sva-vi�apair g�yann al�n�� rutair


mu�cann a�ru maranda-bindubhir alam� rom��ca-v�n��kurai�
m�kando 'p� mukunda m�rcchat� tava sm�ty� nu v�nd�vane
br�h� pr��a-sam�na cetas� katha� n�m�pi n�y�t� te

nrtyan-dancing; vayu-by the wind; vighurnitai�-agitated; sva-own; vitapai�-by


the branches; gayan-singing; alinam-of the bees; rutai�-with the sounds; mu�can-
releasing; a�ru-tears; maranda-of honey; bindubhi�-with drops; alam-greatly;
roma�ca-hairs standing erect; vana-in the forest; a�kurai�-by the new sprouts;
makanda�-the mango tree; ap�-also; mukunda-O K���a; murchat�-faints; tava-of You;
sm�tya-by the memory; nu-indeed; v�nd�vane-in V�nd�vana; bruh�-please tell; pra�a-
as life; samana-who is as dear; cetas�-in the heart; katham-why?; n�ma-the name;
ap�-even; na-does not; ayat�-arrive; te-Your.

This mango tree in V�nd�vana is now overwhelmed by remembering You. It dances,


moving it's branches in the breeze. It sings in the form of these humming bees. It
sheds tears in the form of these many drops of honey. Its hairs stand erect in
ecstasy in the form of these new sprouts. O Mukunda, as dear to me as my own life,
why is this tree so filled with love for You? Who am I so hard-hearted that even
Your name will not enter my heart?
-�r� I�vara Pur�

Text 63
y� draupad�-paritr��e
y� gajendrasya mok�a�e
mayy arte karu��-m�rte
s� tvar� kva gat� hare

ya-which; draupad�-of Draupadi; paritrane-in the protection; ya-which;


gajendrasya-of Gajendra; mok�a�e-in the liberation; may�-to me; arte-suffering;
karuna-of mercy; murte-O form; sa-that; tvara-speed; kva-where?; gata-gone; hare-O
K���a.

O Lord Hari, O form of mercy, You quickly rescued both Draupad� and Gajendra.
What has happened to that quick action now that I suffer so acutely?
-�r� Autkala

Text 64

d�na-bandhur it� n�ma te smaran


y�davendra patito 'ham utsahe
bhakta-vatsalatay� tvay� �rute
m�maka� h�dayam ��u kampate

d�na-of the wretched; bandhu�-the friend; it�-thus; n�ma-the name; te-of You;
smaran-remembering; y�dava-of the Y�davas; indra-O king; patita�-fallen; aham-I;
utsahe-become encouraged; bhakta-to the devotees; vatsalatay�-with affection;
tvay�-to You; �rute-heard; m�makam-my; h�dayam-heart; ��u-at once; kampate-
trembles.

O Lord Y�davendra, I am fallen. When I remember Your name D�na-bandhu (the


friend of the fallen) I become encouraged, and when I hear that You love Your
devotees my heart trembles.
-�r� Jagann�tha Sena

Text 65

st�vak�s tava caturmukh�dayo


bh�vak�s tu bhagavan bhav�daya�
sevak�� �atamakh�daya� sur��
v�sudeva yad� ke tad� vayam

stavaka�-offering prayers; tava-to You; caturmukha-by Lord Brahma; �daya�-


those headed; bhavaka�-filled with love; tu-indeed; bhagavan-O Lord; bhava-with
Lord Siva; �daya�-those headed; sevaka�-servants; satamakha-by Lord Indra; �daya�-
those headed; sura�-demigods; vasudeva-O K���a; yad�-if; ke-who?; tada-then; vayam-
are we.

O Lord, Brahm� and his associates offer prayers to You, �iva and his
associates are full of love for You, and Indra and the demigods are Your servants.
Who are we in comparison to them?
-�r� Dhana�jaya

Text 66

parama-k�ru�iko na bhavat-para�
parama-�ocyatamo na ca mat-para�
it� vicintya hare may� p�mare
yad ucita� yadu-n�tha tad �cara

parama-supremely; k�ru�ika�-merciful; na-not; bhavat-than You; para�-more;


parama-supremely; �ocyatama�-lamentable; na-not; ca-and; mat-than me; para�-more;
it�-thus; vicintya-considering; hare-O K���a; may�-to me; p�mare-fallen and lowly;
yat-what; ucitam-is proper; yadu-of the Yadus; n�tha-O Lord; tat-that; �cara-please
do.

O Lord, no one is more merciful than You, and no one is more pathetic than I.
I am very lowly and fallen. O Lord Yadun�tha, please reflect on my case and do to
me whatever is appropriate.
-author unknown

Text 67

bhavodbhava-kle�a-ka��-�at�hata�
paribhramann indriya-k�path�ntare
niyamyat�� m�dhava me mano-hayas
tvad-a�ghri-�a�kau d��ha-bhakti-bandhane

bhava-by material nature; udbhava-produced; kle�a-of sufferings; ka��-by the


whips; �ata-hundreds; �hata�-struck; paribhraman-wandering; indriya-of the material
senses; k�patha-the bad road; antare-on; niyamyat�m-may be restrained; m�dhava-O
K���a; me-of me; mana�-of the mind; haya�-the horse; tvat-of You; a�ghr�-of the
feet; �a�kau-to the post; d��ha-firm; bhakt�-of devotional service; bandhane-in the
rope.

Beaten by the hundred whips of material sufferings, the horse of my mind runs
wildly on the bad road of the senses. O Lord M�dhava, please pull up the reins of
devotional service. Stop the horse and tie it to the post of Your lotus feet.
-author unknown

Text 68

na dhy�to 's� na k�rtito 's� na man�g �r�dhito 's� prabho


no janm�ntara-gocare tava pad�mbhoje ca bhakti� k�t�
ten�ha� bahu-du�kha-bh�janatay� pr�pto da��m �dr��m
tva� k�ru�ya-nidhe vidheh� karu��� �r�-k��na d�ne mayi

na-not; dhy�ta�-meditated; as�-You have been; na-not; k�rtita�-glorified; as�-


You have been; na-not; man�k-slightly; �r�dhita�-worshipped; as�-You have been;
prabho-O Lord; na-not; u-indeed; janma-birth; antara-gocare-within; tava-of You;
pada-feet; ambhoje-for the lotus; ca-also; bhakti�-devotion; k�t�-done; tena-by
this; aham-I; bahu-many; du�kha-of sufferings; bh�janatay�-by attaining; pr�pta�-
attained; da��m-a condition; �d�s�m-like this; tvam-You; k�ru�ya-of mercy; nidhe-O
ocean; vidheh�-please grant; karu��m-mercy; �r�-k���a-O �r� K���a; d�ne-poor; may�-
to me.

O Lord, in this birth I have not meditated on You, glorified You, even
slightly worshiped You, or developed any devotion for Your lotus feet. That is why
I suffer in this condition. I am very poor and fallen. O �r� K���a, O ocean of
mercy, please be compassionate on me.
-�r� �a�kara

Text 69

�ara�am as� hare prabho mur�re


jaya madhus�dana v�sudeva vi��o
niravadh� kalu��ugha-k�ri�a� m��
gati-rahita� jagad��a rak�a rak�a

�ara�am-the shelter; as�-You are; hare-O Hari; prabho-O Lord; mur�re-O enemy
of the Mura demon; jaya-all glories; madhus�dana-O killer of the Madhu demon;
v�sudeva-O son of Vasudeva; vi��o-O all-pervading Lord; niravadh�-boundless;
kalu�a-of sins; augha-a host; k�ri�am-performing; m�m-me; gat�-a goal; rahitam-
without; jagad��a-O master of the universe; rak�a-please protect; rak�a-please
protect.

I have no goal in life, and I have commited countless sins. O Lord Hari, O
Mur�ri, You are my shelter. O Madhus�dana, O V�sudeva. O Vi��u, all glories to You.
O Jagad��a, please protect me, please protect me.
-author unknown

Text 70

din�dau mur�re ni��dau mur�re


din�rdhe mur�re ni��rdhe mur�re
din�nte mur�re ni��nte mur�re
tvam eko gatir nas tvam eko gatir na�

dina-of the day; �dau-in the beginning; mur�re-O K���a; ni��-of the night;
�dau-in the beginning; mur�re-O K���a; dina-of the day; ardhe-in the middle;
mur�re-O K���a; ni��-of the night; ardhe-in the middle; mur�re-O K���a; dina-of the
day; ante-at the end; mur�re-O K���a; ni��-of the night; ante-at the end; mur�re-O
K���a; tvam-You; eka�-the only; gati�-goal of life; na�-for us; tvam-You; eka�-the
only; gati�-goal of life; na�-for us.

O Lord Mur�ri, during the beginning, middle and end of all our days and
nights, You always remain the only goal of our lives.
-�r� Dak�i��tya

Text 71

ay� nanda-tanuja ki�kara�


patita� m�� vi�ame bhav�mbudhau
k�pay� tava p�da-pa�kaja-
sthita-dh�l�-sad��a� vicintaya

ay�-oh, My Lord; nanda-tanuja-the son of Nanda Mah�r�ja, K���a; ki�karam-the


servant; patitam-fallen; m�m-Me; vi�ame-horrible; bhava-ambudhau-in the ocean of
nescience; k�pay�-by causeless mercy; tava-Your; p�da-pa�kaja-lotus feet; sthita-
situated at; dh�l�-sad��am-like a particle of dust; vicintaya-kindly consider.

O My Lord, O K���a, son of Mah�r�ja Nanda, I am Your eternal servant, but


because of My own fruitive acts, I have fallen in this horrible ocean of nescience.
Now please be causelessly merciful to Me. Consider Me a particle of dust at Your
lotus feet.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Bhakt�n�� ni��h�
The Devotees Faith

Text 72

na vaya� kavayo na tarkik�


na ca ved�nta-nit�nta-p�rag��
na ca v�di-niv�rak�� para�
kapa��bh�ra-ki�ora-ki�kar��

na-not; vayam-we; kavaya�-poets; na-not; tarkit��-logicians; na-not; ca-and;


ved�nta-of Vedanta; nit�nta-greatly; p�ra-to the farther shore; g��-gone; na-not;
ca-also; v�d�-niv�rak��-expert in debate; param-then; kapa�a-cheating; abh�ra-
cowherd; ki�ora-of a boy; ki�kar��-the servants.

We are not poets. We are not logicians. We are not philosophers who have
crossed to the farther shore of Ved�nta. We are not eloquent debaters. We are the
servants of a rascal cowherd boy.
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 73

parivadatu jano yath� tath�ya�


nanu mukharo na vaya� vic�ray�m��
hari-rasa-madira-mad�ti-matt�
bhuv� viluth�ma nat�ma nirvi��ma

parivadatu-may rebuke; jana�-the people; yath�-just as; tath�-in that way;


ayam-this; nanu-is it not so?; mukhara�-talkative; na-not; vayam-we; vicarayama�-
consider it; har�-of Lord Hari; rasa-of the nectar; madira-mada-by the liquor; at�-
extremely; matta�-intoxicated; bhuv�-on the ground; viluthama-I will roll; natama-I
will dance; nirvisama-I will enjoy.

The talkative people will rebuke us. Is it not? We do not care. We will drink
the liquor of love for Lord Hari. We will become completely intoxicated. We will
roll about on the ground. We will dance. We will experience ecstasy.
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 74

n�ha� vipro na ca nara-patir n�pi vai�yo na ��dro


n�ha� var�� na ca g�ha-patir no vanastho yatir v�
kintu prodyan-nikhila-param�nanda-p�r��m�t�bdher
gop�-bhartu� pada-kamalayor d�sa-d�s�nud�sa�

na-not; aham-I; vipra�-a br�hma�a; na-not; ca-also; nara-pati�-a king or


k�atriya; na-not; ap�-also; vai�ya�-belonging to the merchantile class; na-not;
��dra�-belonging to the worker class; na-not; aham-I; var��-belonging to any caste,
or brahmac�r� (A brahmac�r� may belong to any caste. Anyone can become a brahmac�r�
or lead a life of celibacy); na-not; ca-also; g�ha-pati�-householder; no-not; vana-
stha�-v�naprastha, one who, after retirement from family life, goes to the forest
to learn how to be detached from family life; yati�-mendicant or renunciant; v�-
either; kintu-but; prodyan-brilliant; nikhila-universal; parama-�nanda-with
transcendental bliss; p�r�a-complete; am�ta-abdhe�-who is the ocean of nectar;
gop�-bhartu�-of the Supreme Person, who is the maintainer of the gop�s; pada-
kamalayo�-of the two lotus feet; d�sa-of the servant; d�sa-anud�sa�-the servant of
the servant.

I am not a br�hma�a, I am not a k�atriya, I am not a vai�ya or a ��dra. Nor am


I a brahmac�r�, a householder, a v�napratha or a sanny�s�. I identify Myself only
as the servant of the servant of the servant of the lotus feet of Lord �r� K���a,
the maintainer of the gop�s. He is like an ocean of nectar, and He is the cause of
universal transcendental bliss. He is always existing with brilliance.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Text 75

dhany�n�m� h�d� bh�sat�m� girivara-pratyagra-ku�jaukas��


saty�nanda-rasa� vik�ra-vibhava-vy�v�ttam antar-maha�
asm�ka� kila ballav�-rat�-raso v�nd��av�-l�laso
gopa� ko 'p� mahendran�la-rucira� citte muhu� kr��atu
dhanyanam-of those who are fortunate; h�d�-in the heart; bhasatam-manifest;
girivara-of Govardhana Hill; prat�-in each; agra-ku�ja-grove; aukasam-residing;
satya-transcendental; �nanda-of bliss; rasam-nectar; vikara-vibhava-vyav�ta-m-
transcendental ecstasy; anta�-in the heart; maha�-festival; asm�kam-of us; kila-
indeed; ballav�-with the gop�s; rat�-rasa�-with the nectar of love; v�nd�-atav�-in
V�nd�vana forest; lalasa�-eagerly enjoying pastimes; gopa�-cowherd boy; kah ap�-a
certain; maha-great; indran�la-of a sapphire; rucira�-with the splendor; citte-in
the heart; muhu�-repeatedly; kr��atu-may enjoy pastimes.

May the cowherd boy who is a festival of ecstatic bliss for the hearts of the
fortunate creatures residing in the groves of Govardhana Hill, who is the lover of
the gop�s, who eagerly enjoy pastimes in V�nd�vana forest, and whose complexion is
as splendid as a great sapphire, eternally enjoy transcendental pastimes in our
hearts.
-�r� I�vara Pur�

Text 76

rasa� pra�a�santu kavitva-ni��h�


brahm�m�ta� veda-�iro-nivi����
vaya� tu gu�j�-kalit�vata�sa�
g�h�ta-va��a� kam api �ray�ma�

rasam-the mellows of poetry; pra�a�santu-may glorify; kavitva-to poetry;


ni��h��-those devoted; brahma-of Brahman; am�tam-the nectar; veda-�ira�-nivi����-
those devoted to studying the Vedas; vayam-we; tu-but; gu�ja-of gu�ja; kalita-
fashioned; avata�sam-with a garland; g�h�ta-taken; va��am-a flute; kam ap�-of a
certain person; �ray�ma�-we have taken shelter.

Those devoted to poetry may praise the nectar of poetry and those devoted to
Vedic study may praise the nectar of impersonal Brahman. We will praise neither. We
will simply take shelter of a flutist who wears a gu�j�-necklace.
-�r� Y�davendra Pur�

Text 77

dhy�n�t�ta� kim api parama� ye tu j�nant� tattva�


te��m �st�m h�daya-kuhare �uddha-cin-m�tra �tm�
asm�ka� tu prak�ti-madhura� smera-vaktr�ravindo
megha-�y�ma� kanaka-paridhi� pa�kaj�k�o 'yam �tm�

dhy�na-meditation; at�tam-beyond; kim ap�-something; paramam-supreme; ye-who;


tu-indeed; j�nant�-understand; tattvam-the truth; te��m-of them; �st�m-may be;
h�daya-kuhare-in the heart; �uddha-pure; cit-m�tra�-transcendent; �tm�-self;
asm�kam-of us; tu-but; prak�t�-by nature; madhura�-sweetly charming; smera-smiling;
vaktra-face; aravinda�-lotus; megha-as a cloud; �y�ma�-dark; kanaka-with golden;
paridhi�-garments; pa�kaja-lotus; ak�a�-with eyes; ayam-this; �tm�-person.

They who understand the inconceivable, impersonal absolute will find that pure
transcendence in their hearts. That is not, however, what is in our hearts. In our
hearts resides a charming, lotus-faced, lotus-eyed person who wears golden garments
and whose complexion is the color of a dark raincloud.
-�r� Kaviratna

Text 78

j�tu pr�rthayate na p�rthiva-pada� naindre pade modate


sandhate na ca yoga-siddhi�u dhiya� mok�a� ca n�k��k�ate
k�lind�-vana-s�m�ni sthira-ta�in-megha-dyutau kevalam
�uddhe brahma�� ballav�-bhuja-lat�-baddhe mano dh�vati

j�tu-ever; pr�rthayate-prays; na-not; p�rthiva-of an earthly king; padam-the


post; na-not; aindre-of Indra, the king of Svargaloka; pade-the post; modate-
pleases; sandhatte-fixes; na-not; ca-and; yoga-of the yoga system; siddhi�u-on the
mystic perfections; dhiyam-the mind; mok�am-liberation; ca-also; na-not; �k���ate-
desires; k�lind�-of the Yamun� River; vana-in the forest; s�m�ni-on the shore;
sthira-stationary; ta�it-lightning flash; megha-a cloud; dyutau-the splendor;
kevalam-only; �uddhe-pure; brahma��-the Brahman; ballav�-of a gop�; bhuja-of the
arm; lat�-by the vine; baddhe-bound; mana�-the mind; dh�vat�-runs.

My mind never prays for the post of an earthly king. The post of King Indra
does not appeal to it. It does not like the yogic perfections. It does not yearn
after liberation. It only runs after the pure supreme Brahman, who, bound by the
vine of a gop�'s arm, appears like a dark raincloud and stationary lightning flash
in the forest by the Yamun�'s shore.
-�r� Kaviratna

Text 79

sandhy�-vandana bhadram astu bhavato bho� sn�na tubhya� namo


bho dev�� pitara� ca tarpa�a-vidhau n�ha� k�ama� k�amyat�m
yatra kv�pi ni�adya y�dava-kulottamasya ka�sa-dvi�a�
sm�ra� sm�ram agha� har�mi tad ala� manye kim anyena me

sandhya-vandana-O Sandhya-vadana; bhadram-auspiciousness; astu-let there be;


bhavate-to you; bho�-O; snana-bath; tubhyam-to you; nama�-obeisances; bho�-O;
deva�-demigods; pitara�-forefather; ca-also; tarpana-vidhau-in the offering of
tarpana; na-not; aham-I am; k�ama�-able; k�amyatam-may be forgiven; yatra-where;
kva ap�-somewhere; nisadya-sitting; yadava-of the Yadu; kula-of the dynasty;
utta�sasya-of the crown; ka�sa-of Ka�sa; dvi�a�-of the enemy; smaram-remembering;
smaram-and remembering; agham-sin; har�mi-I remove; tat-that; alam-sufficient;
manye-I think; kim-what is the use?; anyena-of something else; me-for me.

O my evening prayer, all good unto you. O my morning bath, I bid you good-bye.
O demigods and forefathers, please excuse me. I am unable to perform any more
offerings for your pleasure. Now I have decided to free myself from all reactions
to sins simply by remembering anywhere and everywhere the great descendant of Yadu
and the great enemy of Ka�sa [Lord K���a]. I think that this is sufficient for me.
So what is the use of further endeavors?*
-�r� M�dhavendra Pur�

Text 80

sn�na� ml�nam abh�t kriy� na ca kriy� sandhy� ca vandhy�bhavad


veda� khedam av�pa ��stra-pa�al� samp��it�nta�-sphu�a
dharmo marma-hato hy adharma-nicaya� pr�ya� k�aya� pr�ptav�n
citta� cumbat� y�davendra-cara��mbhoje mam�har-ni�am

snanam-bathing; mlanam-withered; abh�t-was; kriya-Vedic studies; na-not; ca-


also; kriya-to be done; sandhya-rituals performed at sunrise, noon and sunset; ca-
also; vandhya-barren; abhavat-were; veda�-the Veda; khedam-unhappiness; avapa-
attained; sastra-of scriptures; patal�-the multitude; smaputita-boxed up; anta�-
sphuta-in the heart; dharma�-piety; marma-at the core of life; hata�-wounded; h�-
indeed; adharma-of sinful acts; nicaya�-the host; praya�-for the most part; k�ayam-
destruction; pr�ptavan-attained; cittam-heart; cumbat�-kisses; yadava-of the Yadu
dynasty; indra-of the king (K���a); cara�a-of the feet; ambhoje-the two lotus
flowers; mama-of me; aha�-day; nisam-and night.
My ritual bath has wilted away, my religious duties are undone, my prayers at
sunrise, noon, and sunset are unsaid, the four Vedas are unhappy, the host of other
scriptures stay boxed in the heart, their orders unfollowed, material piety is
wounded at the core of its life, and a multitude of sins are anihilated, for day
and night my heart kisses the two lotus feet of Lord Y�davendra.
-author unknown

Text 81

devak�-tanaya-sevak�-bhav�n
yo bhav�ni sa bhav�ni ki� tata�
utpathe kvacana sat-pathe 'p� v�
m�nasa� vrajatu daiva-de�ikam

devak�-of Devaki; tanaya-of the son; sevak�-a servant; bhavan-become; ya�-one


who; bhav�ni-becomes; sa�-he; bhav�ni-becomes; kim-how?; tata�-then; utpathe-on a
rough path; kvacana-someone; sat-pathe-on a smooth path; ap�-even; va-or; manasam-
the heart; vrajatu-may go; daiva-of the Supreme Lord; desitam-to the instructions.

I will become a servant of the son of Devak�. Because of my past karma the
path may be rough or smooth. What is that to me?
-author unknown

Text 82

mugdha� m�� nigadantu n�t�-nipu�� bhr�nta� muhur vaidik��


manda� b�ndhava-sa�cay� ja�a-dhiya� mukt�dar�� sodar��
unmatta� viveka-catur�� k�mam mah�-d�mbhikam
moktu� na k��mate man�g api mano govinda-p�da-sp�h�m

mugdham-illusioned; mam-me; nigadantu-may say; nit�-in morality; nipuna�-the


experts; bhrantam-misled; muhu�-continually; vaidika�-experts in Vedic activities;
mandam-a fool; bandhava-of friends and relatives; sa�caya�-hosts; jada-stunted;
dhiyam-whose intelligence; mukta-without; adara�-respect; sodara�-brothers;
unmattam-mad; dhanina�-the wealthy; viveka-catura�-learned philosophers; kamam-to
their hearts content; maha-dambhikam-very proud; moktum-to abandon; na-not;
k�amate-is able; manak-slightly; ap�-even; mana�-my mind; govinda-of Lord K���a;
pada-of the feet; sprham-the desire.

Let the sharp moralist accuse me of being illusioned� I do not mind. Experts
in Vedic activities may slander me as being misled, friends and relatives may call
me frustrated, my brothers may call me a fool, the wealthy mammonites may point me
out as mad, and the learned philosophers may assert that I am much too proud� still
my mind does not budge an inch from the determination to serve the lotus feet of
Govinda, though I be unable to do it.*
-�r� M�dhavendra Pur�

Text 83

�y�mam eva para� r�pa�


pur� madhu-pur� var�
vaya� kai�oraka� dhyeyam
�dya eva paro rasa�

�y�mam-the form of �yamasundara; eva-certainly; param-supreme; r�pam-form;


pur�-the place; madhu-pur�-Mathur�; var�-best; vaya�-the age; kai�orakam-fresh
youth; dhyeyam-always to be meditated on; �dya�-the original transcendental mellow,
or conjugal love; eva-certainly; para�-the supreme; rasa�-mellow.
The form of �y�masundara is the supreme form, the city of Mathura� is the
supreme abode, Lord K���a's fresh youth should always be meditated upon, and the
mellow of conjugal love is the supreme mellow.*
-�r� Raghupat� Up�dhy�ya

Text 84

purata� sphuratu vimukti�


ciram iha r�jya� karotu vair�jyam
pa�up�la-b�laka-pate�
sev�m ev�bhiva�ch�mi

purata�-in the presence; sphuratu-may become manifest; vimukti�-liberation;


ciram-enduring; iha-here; rajyam-kingdom; karotu-may be; vairajyam-of Lord Brahma;
pasupala-of the cowherd; balaka-boys; pate�-of the leader; sevam-the service; eva-
certainly; abhiva�ch�mi-I desire.

Liberation may appear before me. The enduring kingdom of Lord Brahm� may also
appear before me. I do not care for them. I simply desire to serve Lord K���a, the
leader of the cowherd boys.
-�r� Surottam�c�rya

Text 85

k�au�i-patitvam athavaikam aki�canatvam


nitya� dad�s� bahu-m�nam ath�pam�nam
vaiku��ha-v�sam atha v� narake niv�sa�
h� v�sudeva mama n�st� gatis tvad-any�

k�aun�-patitvam-the post of a king; athava-or; ekam-one; aki�canatvam-a


poverty-stricken condition; nityam-always; dadas�-You give; bahu-very; manam-
respectable; atha-or; apamanam-not respected; vaikuntha-in Vaikuntha; vasam-
residence; atha va-or; narake-in hell; nivasam-residence; ha-O; vasudeva-K���a;
mama-of me; na-not; ast�-is; gati�-goal; tvat-for You; anya-except.

O V�sudeva, You may make a king, or a poverty-stricken beggar. You may make
others respect me, or revile me. You may give residence in Vaiku��ha, or in hell.
Whatever You do, You will always remain the only goal of my life. No one else will
ever become my goal.
-�r�garbha Kav�ndra

Text 86

di�atu sv�r�jya� v�
vitaratu t�pa-traya� v�pi
sukhitam du�khitam api m��
na vimu�catu ke�ava� sv�m�

di�atu-may show; sv�r�jyam-Your own kingdom; va-or; vitaratu-may give; t�pa-


miseries; trayam-three-fold; v�-or; ap�-even; sukhitam-happy; du�khitam-distressed;
ap�-even; m�m-me; na-not; vimu�catu-may abandon; ke�ava�-K���a; sv�m�-Lord.

He may show His own kingdom, or He may make me suffer the three-fold miseries.
Whether I suffer or enjoy, I pray that Lord Ke�ava never abandon me.
-�r� Kavir�ja Mi�ra

Bhakt�n�� sautsukya-pr�rthan�
The Devotees Earnest Prayers
Text 87

nandanandana-pad�ravindayo�
syandam�na-makaranda-bindava�
sindhava� parama-saukhya-sampad��
nandayantu h�daya� mam�ni�am

nanda-nandana-of Lord K���a, the son of Mah�r�ja Nanda; pada-feet;


aravindayo�-of the two lotus flowers; syandam�na-flowing; makaranda-of honey;
bindava�-drops; sindhava�-oceans; parama-transcendental; saukhya-of happiness;
sampad�m-the opulence; nandayantu-may delight; h�dayam-heart; mama-my; ani�am-day
and night.

The drops of honey trickling from the two lotus flowers of Lord Nandanandana's
feet are so many oceans of transcendental bliss. I pray those drops of honey may
eternally delight my heart.
-�r�kar�c�rya

Text 88

iha vats�n samac�rayad


iha na� sv�m� jagau va�s�m
it� s�sra� gadato me
yamun�-t�re dina� y�y�t

iha-here; vats�n-the calves; samac�rayat-herded; iha-here; na�-our; sv�m�-


Lord; jagau-played; va���m-the flute; it�-thus; sa-with; asram-tears; gadata�-
speaking; me-of me; yamun�-of the Yamun�; t�re-on the shore; dinam-the day; y�y�t-
may pass.

"Here our Lord herded the calves, and here He played the flute." I pray that I
may pass my days shedding tears as I speak these words on the Yamun�'s shore.
-�r� Raghupat� Up�dhy�ya

Text 89

anu��lita-ku�ja-v��ik�y��
jaghan�lambita-p�ta-���ik�y�m
mural�-kala-k�jite rat�y��
mama ceto 'stu kadamba-devat�y�m

anu��lita-staying; ku�ja-in the grove; v��ik�y�m-in the garden; jaghana-on the


hips; �lambita-resting; p�ta-yellow; ���ik�y�m-garment; mural�-of the flute; kala-
the sweet music; k�jite-sounding; rat�y�m-intent; mama-of me; ceta�-the heart;
astu-may be; kadamba-of the kadamba flowers; devat�y�m-on the diety.

The Supreme Personality of Godhead is decorated with yellow kadamba flowers. A


yellow dhot� girds His waist, He enjoys playing sweet flute music in the forest
garden. I pray that my heart may become fixed on Him.
-�r� Govinda

Text 90

arakta-d�rgha-nayano nayan�bhir�ma�
kandarpa-ko�i-lalita� vapur �dadh�na�
bh�y�t sa me 'dya h�day�mburuh�dhivart�
v�nd��av�-nagara-n�gara-cakravart�

�rakta-reddish; d�rgha-long; nayana�-eyes; nayana-of the eyes; abhir�ma�-the


delight; kandarpa-of cupids; ko��-of millions; lalitam-more charming; vapu�-a form;
�dadh�na�-manifesting; bh�y�t-may be; sa�-He; me-of me; adya-now; h�daya-of the
heart; amburuha-of the lotus flower; adhivart�-in the middle; v�nd��av�-of
V�nd�vana; nagara-of the town; n�gara-of the residents; cakravart�-the ruler.

May Lord K���a, who has long reddish eyes, whose transcendental form is more
charming than millions of K�madevas, who is very pleasing to the eyes, and who is
the king of V�nd�vana village, appear on the lotus flower of my heart.
-�r� Bhav�nanda

Text 91

l�va�y�m�ta-vany�
madhurima-lahar�-par�p�ka�
k�runy���m h�daya�
kapa�a-ki�ora� parisphuratu

l�va�ya-of beauty; am�ta-of the nectar; vany�-the flood; madhurima-of


sweetness; lahar�-with waves; par�p�ka�-filled; k�ru�y�h�m-of mercy; h�dayam-the
heart; kapa�a-rascal; ki�ora�-a youth; parisphuratu-may appear.

I pray that Lord K���a, the mischievous youth who is a flood of handsomeness,
who is waves of sweet charm, and who is the heart of mercy, may appear before me.
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 92

bhavantu tatra janm�ni


yatra te mural�-kala�
kar�a-peyatvam �y�ti
ki� me nirv��a-v�rtay�

bhavantu-may be; tatra-there; janm�ni-births; yatra-where; te-of You; mural�-


of the flute; kala�-the sweet music; kar�a-by the ears; peyatvam-the state of being
drunk; �y�t�-attains; kim-what?; me-for me; nirv��a-of impersonal liberation;
v�rtay�-is the use of talking.

O Lord, I pray that I may take birth again and again in a place where my ears
may drink the sweet music of Your flute. What is the use of talking to me about
impersonal liberation?
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 93

�sv�dya� pramad�-radacchadam iva �ravya� nava� jalpita�


b�l�y� iva d��ya uttama-vadh�-l�va�ya-lak�m�r iva
prodgho�ya� cira-viprayukta-vanit�-sande�a-v���va me
naivedya� carita� ca r�pam ani�a� �r�-k���a n�m�stu te

�sv�dyam-to be tasted; pramad�-of a woman; radacchadam-the lips; iva-like;


�ravyam-to be heard; navam-new; jalpitam-conversation; b�l�y��-of a young girl;
iva-like; d��yam-to be seen; uttama-supreme; vadh�-of a wife; l�va�ya-of beauty;
lak�m��-the opulence; iva-like; prodgho�yam-to be spoken aloud; cira-for a long
time; viprayukta-separated; vanit�-of a woman; sande�a-in a letter; v���-the
statement; iva-like; me-for me; naivedyam-the remnants of foodstuff; caritam-
pastimes; ca-and; r�pam-form; ani�am-day and night; �r�-k���a-O �r� K���a; n�ma-the
name; astu-may become; te-of You.

O Lord K���a, I pray that the remnants of Your foodstuff may become as
palatable for to me as a woman's lips are palatable for a materialist. I pray that
the narration of Your pastimes may become as sweet to my ears as the words of a
young girl are sweet for a materialist. I pray that the sight of Your
transcendental form may become as pleasing to my eyes as the beauty of a young
bride is pleasing to her husband. I pray that I may always chant Your holy name in
the same way a lover reads aloud a letter from his long-separated beloved.
-author unknown

Text 94

nayana� galad-a�ru-dh�ray�
vadana� gadgada-ruddhy� gir�
pulakair nicita� vapu� kad�
tava n�ma-graha�e bhavi�yati

nayanam-the eyes; galat-a�ru-dh�ray�-by strea�s of tears running down;


vadanam-mouth; gadgada-faltering; ruddhay�-choked up; gir�-with words; pulakai�-
with erection of the hairs due to transcendental happiness; nicitam-covered; vapu�-
the body; kad�-when; tava-Your; n�ma-graha�e-in chanting the name; bhavi�yat�-will
be.

My dear Lord, when will My eyes be beautified by filling with tears that
constantly glide down as I chant Your holy name? When will My voice falter and all
the hairs on My body stand erect in transcendental happiness as I chant Your holy
name?*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Text 95

na dhana� na jana� na sundar��


kavit�� v� jagadi�a k�maye
mama janm�ni jaman��vare
bhavat�d bhaktir ahaituk� tvayi

na-not; dhanam-riches; na-not; janam-followers; na-not; sundar�m-a very


beautiful woman; kavit�m-fruitive activities described in flowery language; v�-or;
jagat-��a-O Lord of the universe; k�maye-I desire; mama-My; janm�ni-in birth;
janm�ni-after birth; ��vare-unto the Supreme Personality of Godhead; bhavat�t-let
there be; bhakti�-devotional service; ahaituk�-with no motives; tvay�-unto You.

O Lord of the universe, I do not desire material wealth, materialistic


followers, a beautiful wife or fruitive activities described in flowery language.
All I want, life after life, is unmotivated devotional service to You.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Text 96

govardhana-prastha-nav�mbuv�ha�
k�linda-kany�-nava-n�la-padm�n
v�nd�vanod�ra-tam�la-��kh�
t�pa-trayasy�bhibhava� karotu

govardhana-on Govardhana Hill; prastha-staying; nava-a new; ambuvaha�-


raincloud; kalinda-kanya-in the Yamuna� River; nava-a fresh; n�la-blue; padmam-
lotus flower; v�nd�vana-in V�nd�vana forest; udara-a great; tamala-tamala; sakhi-
tree; tapa-miseries; trayasya-of the three-fold; abhibhavam-the defeat; karotu-may
do.

May Lord K���a, who is a fresh raincloud over Govardhana Hill, a new blue
lotus in the Yamun� River, and a great tam�la tree in V�nd�vana forest, protect me
from the three-fold miseries of material existance.
-�r� Gau��ya

Text 97

ana�ga-rasa-c�tur�-capala-c�ru-netr��cala�
calan-makara-ku��ala-sphurita-k�nti-ga��a-sthala�
vrajollasita-n�gar�-nikara-r�sa-l�syotsuka�
sa me sapad� m�nase sphuratu ko 'p� gop�laka�

ana�ga-of amorous love; rasa-in the mellows; catur�-expertness; capala-


restless; caru-beautiful; netra-of the eyes; a�cala�-the corners; calat-moving;
makara-shark; kundala-earrings; sphurita-glistening; k�nt�-splendor; ganda-sthala�-
on the cheek�; vraja-of Vraja; ullasita-splendid; nagar�-of girls; nikara-with a
multitude; lasya-dance; rasa-rasa; lasya-dance; utsuka�-eager; sa�-He; me-of me;
sapad�-at once; manase-in the heart; sphuratu-may appear; kah ap�- a certain;
gopalaka�-cowherd boy.

I pray that the cowherd boy who expertly casts amorous glances from the
corners of His restless eyes, whose cheeks are decorated with glistening,
beautiful, swinging shark-shaped earrings, and who is very eager to enjoy the r�sa
dance with the beautiful girls of Vraja, may at once appear within my heart.
-�r� M�dhavendra Pur�

Bhakt�n�m utka��h�
The Devotees Yearning

Text 98

�rutaya� palala-kapa�
kim iha vaya� s�mprata� cinuma�
�hriyata puraiva nayanair
�bh�r�bhi� para� brahma

�rutaya�-the �rut�-sastras; palala-a bunch of straw; kalpa�-like; kim-why?;


iha-here; vayam-we; sampratam-now; cinuma�-consider; ahriyata-has been taken; pura-
before; eva-certainly; nayanai�-by the eyes; abhiribhi�-with the gop�s; param-the
Supreme Brahman.

The �rut�-��stra is insignificant as a bunch of straw. Why do we now think in


this way? Our eyes have seen the Supreme Brahman enjoying pastimes with the gop�s.
-�r� Raghupat� Up�dhy�ya

Text 99

ka� prat� kathayitum ��e


samprat� ko v� prat�tim �y�tu
go-pati-tanay�-k��je
gopa-vadh���-vi�a� brahma

kam prat�-unto whom; kathayitum-to speak; ��e-am I able; samprat�-now; ka�-


who; v�-or; prat�tim-belief; �y�tu-would do; go-pat�-of the sun-god; tanay�-of the
daughter (the Yamun�); ku�je-in the bushes on the ba�k; gopa-vadh���-of the cowherd
girls; vi�am-the hunter; brahma-the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

To whom can I speak who will believe me when I say that K���a, the Supreme
Personality of Godhead, is hunting the gop�s in the bushes by the banks of the
River Yamun�? In this way the Lord demonstrates His pastimes.*
-�r� Raghupat� Up�dhy�ya

Text 100

j��ta� k��abhuja� mata� paricitaiv�nv�k�ik� �ik�it�


m�m��s� viditaiva s��khya-sara�ir yoge vit�r�� mati�
ved�nta� pari��lita� sa-rabhasa� kintu sphuran-m�dhur�-
dh�r� k�cana nandas�nu-mural� mac-cittam �kar�ati

j��tam-understood; k��abhujam-of Ka��da R�i; matam-the philosophy; paricit�-


studied; eva-certainly; anv�k�ik�-1.0 the ny�ya philosophy of Gautama R�i; �ik�it�-
studied; m�m��s�-the karma-m�m��s� philosophy of Jaimini; vidit�-understood; eva-
certainly; s��khya-the s��khya philosophy of pseudo-Kapila; sara�i�-the path;
yoge-in the yoga philosophy of Pata�jal� R�i; vit�r�a-applied; mati�-the mind;
ved�nta�-the Ved�nta philosophy of Vy�sa; pari��lita�-studied; sa-with; rabhasam-
ardor; kintu-however; sphurat-manifesting; m�dhur�-of sweetness; dh�r�-stream;
k�cana-a certain; nanda-of Nanda Mah�r�ja; s�nu-of the son; mural�-the flute; mat-
my; cittam-heart; �kar�at�-attracts.

I have carefully understood Ka��da's param��uv�da philosophy. I have studied


Gautama's ny�ya philosophy. I know Jaimini's karma-m�m��s� philosophy. I have
already traveled on the path of pseudo-Kapila's s��khya philosophy. I have applied
my mind to Pata�jali's yoga philosophy. I have ardently studied Vy�sa's Ved�nta
philosophy. None of these attracts me. It is the flood of sweetness from Lord
Nandas�nu's flute that attracts my heart.
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 101

amar�-mukha-s�dhu-madhur����
lahar� k�cana c�tur� kal�n�m
taral�-kurute mano mad�ya�
mural�-n�da-parampar� mur�re�

amar�-of demigoddesses; mukha-from the mouths; sidhu-of nectar; madhurinam-of


sweetness; lahar�-wave; kacana-a certain; catur�-expertness; kalanam-of the arts;
taral�-kurute-make tremble; mana�-heart; madiyam-my; mural�-of the flute; nada-of
sounds; parampara-the sucession; mura-are�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura
demon.

Eclipsing both the demigoddesses artistry and the waves of sweetness flowing
from their mouths, the music of Lord Mur�ri's flute makes my heart tremble.
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 102

apaharat� mano me ko 'py aya� k���a-caura�


pra�ata-durita-caura� p�tan�-pr��a-caura�
valaya-vasana-cauro b�la-gop�-jan�n��
nayana-h�daya-caura� pa�yat�� saj-jan�n�m

apaharat�-steals; mana�-heart; me-my; ka� ap�-a certain; ayam-He; k���a-K���a;


caura�-thief; pra�ata-of the surrendered devotees; durita-of the sins; caura�-the
thief; p�tan�-of P�tan�; pr��a-of the life breath; caura�-the thief; valaya-of
bracelets; vasana-and garments; caura�-the thief; b�la-of the young; gop�-jan�n�m-
gop�s; nayana-of the eyes; h�daya-and hearts; caura�-the thief; pa�yat�m-may be
seen; sat-jananam-of the saintly devotees.

A dark-complexioned thief has stolen my heart. Look! He has already stolen the
sins of the surrendered devotees, the life-breath of P�tan�, the bracelets and
garments of the young gop�s, and the eyes and hearts of the saintly devotees.
-author unknown

Text 103

ala� tri-diva-v�rtay� kim it� sarva-bhauma-�r�y�


vid�ratara-v�rtin� bhavatu mok�a-lak�m�r api
kalinda-giri-nandin�-ta�a-niku�ja-pu�jodare
mano harat� kevala� nava-tam�la-m�la� maha�

alam-enough!; tr�-diva-of the heavenly planets; v�rtay�-with talk; kim-what is


the use?; it�-thus; sarva-bhauma-of soveriegnty over a great kingdom; �r�y�-with
the opulence; vid�ratara-far away; v�rtin�-being; bhavatu-may become; mok�a-of
liberation; lak�m��-the opulence; ap�-also; kalinda-gir�-nandin�-of the Yamun�
River, the daughter of Mount Kalinda; ta�a-on the shore; niku�ja-the groves; pu�ja-
of the multitude; udare-within; mana�-my heart; harat�-steals; kevalam-exclusively;
nava-a new; tam�la-tam�la tree; n�lam-blue; maha�-splendor.

Enough with this talk of celestial planets! What is the use of a great kingdom
on earth? Even the opulence of liberation should go far away from me! In the groves
by the Yamun�s shore a person whose dark complexion is like a young tam�la tree has
now stolen my heart.
-�r� Harid�sa

Text 104

avalokitam anumoditam
ali�gitam a�gan�bhir anur�gai�
adhi-v�nd�vana-ku�ja�
marakata-pu�ja� namasy�ma�

avalokitam-seen; anumoditam-pleased; ali�gitam-embraced; a�ganabhi�-by the


gop�s; anuragai�-with love; adh�-v�nd�vana-ku�jam-in the groves of V�nd�vana;
marakata-of sapphires; pu�jam-a multitude; namasyama�-we offer our respectful
obeisances.

We offer our respecftul obeisances to the host of sapphires, gazed on,


pleased, and lovingly embraced by the gop�s in the groves of V�nd�vana forest.
��r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

Text 105

kad� drak�y�mi nandasya


b�laka� n�pa-m�lakam
p�laka� sarva-sattv�n��
lasat-tilaka-bh�lakam

kad�-when?; drak�y�mi-will I see; nandasya-of Mah�r�ja Nanda; b�lakam-the son;


n�pa-of kadamba flowers; m�lakam-wearing a garland; p�lakam-the protector; sarva-of
all; sattv�n�m-the saintly devotees; lasat-glistening; tilaka-with tilaka
decorations; bh�lakam-on His forehead.

When will I see Nanda's son? He is the protector of the devotees. He is


garlanded with kadamba flowers, and His forehead is decorated with glistening
tilaka.
-�r� M�dhavendra Pur�

Text 106
kad� v�nd�ra�ye mihira-duhitu� sa�ga-mahite
muhur bhr�ma� bhr�ma� carita-lahar�� gokula-pate�
lapann uccair nayana-payas�� ve�ibhir aha�
kari�ye sotka��ho nividam upaseka� vi�apin�m

kad�-when?; v�nd�-ara�ye-in the forest of V�nd�vana; mihira-duhitu�-of the


Yamun� River, the daughter of the sun-god; sa�ga-by the touch; mahite-glorified;
muhu�-repeatedly; bhr�mam-wandering; bhr�mam-and wandering; carita-of pastimes;
lahar�m-the waves; gokula-of Gokula; pate�-of the king; lapan-speaking; uccai�-
loudly; uccai�-greatly; nayana-of the eyes; payas�m-of water; ve�ibhi�-with
strea�s; aham-I; kari�ye-will do; sa-with; utka��ha�-longings; nivi�am-thick;
upasekam-sprinkling; vi�apin�m-of the trees.

When, in V�nd�vana forest, which is glorified by the Yamun�s touch, will I


continually wander, filled with the longings of love, loudly chanting the
transcendental pastimes of Gokula's king, K���a, and thickly sprinkling the trees
with streams of tears from my eyes.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 107

dur�rohe lak�m�vat� bhagavat�n�m api pada�


dadh�n� dhammille na�at� ka�hine yopani�ad�m
rutir va�s�-janm� dh�ta-madhurim� s� madhu-ripor
akasm�d asm�ka� �ruti-�ikharam �rok�yat� kad�

dur�rohe-difficult to reach; lak�m�vat�-opulent; bhagavat�n�m-of the


goddesses; ap�-even; padam-the foot; dadh�n�-placing; dhamille-on the braided hair;
na�at�-dances; ka�hine-hard; y�-which; upani�ad�m-of the Upani�ads; ruti�-the
sound; va���-from the flute; janm�-born; dh�ta-manifested; madhurim�-sweetness; s�-
that; madhu-ripo�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Madhu demon; akasm�t-suddenly;
asm�kam-of us; �rut�-of the ears; �ikharam-the top; �rok�yat�-may climb; kad�-when?

When will Lord Madhuripu's (K���a's) sweet flute music, which dances with a
lotus foot on the anapproachable braided hair of the goddesses who are the
Upani�ads, suddenly enter my ear?
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 108

utphulla-t�pi�cha-manorama-�r�r
m�tu� stana-nyasta-mukh�ravinda�
sa�c�layan p�da-saroruh�gra�
k���a� kad� y�syat� d�k-patha� me

utphulla-spread out; t�pi�cha-peacock feather; manorama-charming; �r��-with


beauty; m�tu�-of His mother; stana-on the breast; nyasta-placed; mukha-mouth;
aravinda�-lotus; sa�c�layan-moving; p�da-feet; saroruha-lotus; agram-tip; k���a�-
K���a; kad�-when?; y�syat�-will go; d�k-of the eyes; patham-to the path; me-of me.

When will infant K���a, charmingly decorated with a great peacock feather,
wriggling His lotus toes, and His lotus mouth placed on His mother's breast, enter
the pathway of my eyes?
-author unknown

Text 109

rohi��-rama�a-ma��ala-dyuti-
drohi��� vadana-k�nti-santatim
k���a n�tana-tam�la-komal��
ko 'mal�� tava tanu� ca vismaret

rohin�-ramana-of the moon-god, the husband of Rohini; mandala-of the planet;


dyut�-of the splendor; drohinim-the enemy; vadana-of the face; k�nt�-of beauty;
santatim-the abundance; k���a-O K���a; nutana-fresh; tamala-of a tamala leaf;
komalam-delicate; ka�-who?; amalam-splendid; tava-Your; tanum-form; ca-also;
vismaret-may forget.

O K���a, who can forget Your face, which eclipses the beauty of the moon? Who
can forget Your splendid transcendental form delicate as a new tam�la leaf?
-author unknown

Text 110

barh�p��a� maulau bibhrad va���-n�d�n �tanvan


n�n�kalpa-�r�-sampanno gopa-str�bhi� samv�ta�
netr�nanda� kurvan k���a tva� ced asm�n vik�eth��
sarve k�m�� sampadyerann asm�ka� h�dy as�na�

barha-apidam-a peacock feather; maulau-in the crown; bibhrat-wearing; va���-of


the flute; nadan-the sounds; atanvan-making; nana-various; akalpa-of decorations;
�r�-with the beauty; sampanna�-endowed; gopa-stribhi�-by the gop�s; samvita�-
accompanied; netra-of the eyes; nandam-bliss; kurvan-doing; k���a-O K���a; tvam-
You; cet-if; asman-on us; v�k�etha�-glance; sarve-all; kama�-the desires;
sampadyeran-will become fulfilled; asm�kam-of us; h�d�-in the heart; asina�-
sitting.

O K���a, if, wearing a peacock-feather crown, playing the flute, Your form
beautifully decorated with various ornaments, and accompanied by the gop�s, You
glance on us and delight our eyes, then all the desires sitting in our hearts
become at once fulfilled.
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Mok��n�dara�
Contempt for Liberation

Text 111

bhakti� sev� bhagavato


muktis tat-pada-la�ghanam
ko m��ho d�sat�� pr�pya
pr�bhava� padam icchati

bhakti�-bhakti; sev�-service; bhagavata�-to the Supreme Personality of


Godhead; mukti�-mukti; tat-that; pada-position; la�ghanam-jumping over; ka�-what?;
m��ha�-fool; d�sat�m-the position of a servant; pr�pya-having attained; pr�bhavam
padam-liberation; icchat�-desires.

Bhakt� means devotional service to the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Mukt�


means impersonal liberation, where there is no longer any devotional service. Who
is so foolish that, after attaining devotional service, would still desire to
attain this mukti?
-�r� �ivamauni

Text 112

bhava-bandha-cchide tasyai
sp�hay�mi na muktaye
bhav�n prabhur aham d�sa
it� yatra vilupyate

bhava-of repeated birth and death; bandha-the bonds; chide-breaking; tasya�-


for that; sp�hay�mi-I desire; na-not; muktaye-liberation; bhav�n-You; prabhu�-the
master; aham-I; d�sa�-the servant; it�-thus; yatra-where; vilupyate-is broken.

O Lord, You are the master, and I am Your servant. I do not desire any kind of
liberation from the bonds of repeated birth and death that will also break our
relationship.
-�r� Hanum�n

Text 113

hanta citr�yate mitra


sm�tv� t�n mama m�hasam
vivekino 'p� ye kuryus
t��n�m �tyantike laye

hanta-indeed; citr�yate-becomes struck with wonder; mitra-O friend; sm�tv�-


remembering; t�n-them; mama-my; m�nasam-heart; vivekina�-intelligent;
discriminating people; ap�-even; ye-who; kuryu�-do; t����m-thirst; �tyantike-great;
laye-impersonal liberation.

Many intelligent people thirst after impersonal liberation. O friend, when my


heart considers their folly it becomes struck with wonder.
-author unknown

Text 114

k� tva� muktir up�gat�sm� bhavat� kasm�d akasm�d iha


�r�-k���a-smara�ena deva bhavato d�s�-pada� pr�pit�
d�re ti��ha man�g an�gas� katha� kury�d an�rya� mayi
tvad-gandh�n nija-n�ma-candana-ras�lepa�ya lopo bhavet

k�-who?; tvam-are you; mukti�-impersonal liberation; up�gat�-arrived; asm�-I


am; bhavat�-you; kasm�t-why?; akasm�t-suddenly; iha-her; �r�-k���a-�r� K���a;
smara�ena-by remembering; deva-O Lord; bhavata�-of you; d�s�-of a maidservant;
padam-the post; pr�pit�-attained; d�re-far away; ti��ha-stay; man�k-slightly;
an�gas�-not sinful; katham-why?; kury�t-may do; an�ryam-impiety; may�-to me; tvat-
of you; gandh�t-from the fragance; nija-own; n�ma-of the name; candana-of
sandalwood; rasa-of the nectar; �lepa�ya-of the ointment; lopa�-breaking; bhavet-
may he.

"Who are you?"


"I am impersonal liberation."
"Why have you suddenly come here?"
"My lord, I have come because by constantly remembering Lord K���a you are now
qualified to become His maidservant."
"Stay away! Why do you trouble a person like me? I have not done anything
wrong. Your smell alone will ruin the sweet fragrance of the sandalwood paste of my
reputation as a devotee."
-author unknown

�r� Bhagavad-dharma-tattvam
The Nature of Devotional Service

Text 115
�rcye vi��au �il�-dh�r guru�u nara-matir vai��ave j�ti-buddhir
vi��or v� vai��av�n�� kali-mala-mathane p�da-t�rthe 'mbu-buddhi�
�r�-vi��or n�mn� mantre sakala-kalu�a-he sabda-s�manya-buddhir
vi��au sarve�vare tad-itara-sama-dh�r yasya v� n�rak� sa�

arcye-worshippable diety; vi��au-of Lord Vi��u; sila-as stone; dhi�-the


conception; gurusu-to the spiritual masters; nara-of being an ordinary man; mati�-
the conception; vai��ave-to the vai��avas; jat�-of birth; buddhi�-the conception;
vi��o�-of Lord Vi��u; va-or; vai��avanam-of the Vai��avas; kal�-of Kal�-yuga; mala-
of the impurity; mathane-in the destruction; pada-of the feet; tirthe-in the
pilgrimage place; ambu-of water; buddhi�-the conception; �r�-vi��o�-of Lord Vi��u;
namn�-in the name; mantre-a mantra; sakala-all; kalusa-impurities; he-destroying;
sabda-a sound; samanya-ordinary; buddhi�-the conception; vi��au-to Lord Vi��u;
sarva-of all; isvare-the master; tat-than Him; itara-others; sama-equal; dhi�-the
conception; yasya-of whom; va-or; narak�-a resident of hell; sa�-he.

One who thinks the worshipable Deity form of Lord Vi��u is a stone, the bona-
fide spiritual master is an ordinary man, the Vai��ava belongs to a caste in the
var���rama system, the water that has washed the feet of Lord Vi��u or the
Vai��avas, and that actually removes the sins of the Kal�-yuga, is ordinary water,
the name of Lord Vi��u, which is a sacred mantra that removes all sin, is an
ordinary sound, or the Supreme Lord Vi��u is the same as other persons, is a
resident of hell.
-�r� Dak�i��tya

Text 116

h�tya� h�nt� yad-a�ghri-sa�ga-tulas� steya� ca toya� pador


naivedya� bahu-madya-p�na-durita� gurv-a�gan�-sa�ga-jam
�r�s�dh�na-mati� sthitir hari-janais tat-sa�ga-ja� kilbi�a�
��lagr�ma-�il�-n�si�ha-mahim� ko 'py e�a lokottara�

hatyam-the sin of murder; hant�-kills; yat-of whom; anghr�-the feet; sa�ga-


touching; tulas�-a tulas� leaf; steyam-theft; ca-also; toyam-the water; pado�-of
the feet; naivedyam-the remnants of foodstuff; bahu-much; madya-liquor; pana-of
drinking; duritam-the sin; guru-of the guru and other superiors; a�gana-with wife;
sa�ga-from intercourse; jam-produced; �r�-isa-on Lord Narayana, the master of the
goddess of fortune; adhina-dependence; mati�-the conception; sthiti�-situation;
har�-janai�-with the devotees of Lord Hari; tat-of them; sa�ga-from the contact;
jam-produced; kilbisam-the sin; salagrama-sila-of the Salagrama-sila; nrsimha-of
Lord Nrsimha; mahima-the glory; kah ap�-a certain; esa�-this; loka-uttara�-
extraordinary.

A tulas� leaf offered to the lotus feet of the N�si�ha ��lagr�ma-�ila�


destroys the sin of murder. Water that has washed the lotus feet of the N�si�ha
��lagr�ma-�ila� destroys the sin of theft. Foodstuff offered to the N�si�ha
��lagr�ma-�ila� destroys the sin of drinking liquor. Sincere surrender to the
N�si�ha ��lagr�ma-�ila� destroys the sin of adultery with the wife of the spiritual
master. Association with the devotees of the N�si�ha ��lagr�ma-�ila� destroys the
sin of offenses to the devotees. This is the extraordinary glory of the N�si�ha
��lagr�ma-�il�.
-�r� Agama

Naivedy�rpa�e vij�apti�
Prayers for Offering Pras�dam

Text 117
dvija-str���� bhakte m�dun� vidur�nne vraja-gav��
dadhi-k�ire sakhyu� sphu�a-cipita-mu��au mura-ripo
ya�od�y�� stanye vraja-yuvati-datte madhun� te
yath�s�d �modas tam imam upah�re 'p� kurut�m

dvija-of the brahmanas; strinam-of the wives; bhakte-in the foodstuff; m�dun�-
palatable; vidura-offered by Vidura; anne-in the foodstuff; vraja-of Vraja; gavam-
of the cows; dadh�-the yogurt; k�ire-and milk; sakhyu�-of Your friend Sudama Vipra;
sphuta-manifested; cipita-of chipped rice; mustau-a handful; mura-of the Mura
demon; ripo-O enemy; yasodaya�-of Yasoda; stanye-in the breast-milk; vraja-of
Vraja; yuvat�-by the young gop�s; datte-presented; madhun�-palatable foods; te-to
You; yath�-just as; asit-was; amoda�-happiness; tam-this; imam-this; upahare-in the
offering; ap�-also; kurutam-may be done.

O Lord Mur�ri, as You enjoyed the palatable food presented by the wives of the
br�hma�as, the meal offered by Vidura, the milk and yogurt of the cows in Vraja,
the handful of chipped rice from Your friend Sud�m� Br�hma�a, the breast-milk of
Mother Ya�od�, and the delicious foods prepared by the young girls of Vraja, I hope
the offering I now place before You You will also enjoy in the same way.
-�r� R�m�nuja

Text 118

y� pr�tir vidur�rpite madhu-ripo kunty-arpite y�d���


y� govardhana-m�rdhn� y� ca p�thuke stanye ya�od�rpite
bh�radv�ja-samarpite �abarik�-datte 'dhare yo�it��
y� v� te muni-bh�min�-vinihite 'nne 'tr�pi t�m arpaya

ya-which; priti�-pleasure; visura-by Vidura; arpite-offered; madhu-of the


Madhu demon; ripo-O enemy; kunt�-by Kunt�-devi; arpite-offered; yad���-like which;
ya-which; govardhana-of Govardhana Hill; murdhn�-on the summit; ya-which; ca-also;
prthuke-in the chipped rice; stanye-in the breast-milk; yasoda-by Yasoda-devi;
arpite-offered; savarika-by Sabarika; datte-presentede; adhare-in the lips;
yositam-of the gop�s; ya-which; va-or; te-of You; mun�-of the sages; bhamin�-by the
wives; vinihite-presented; anne-in the foods; atra-here; ap�-also; tam-that;
arpaya-please place.

O Lord Madhus�dana, as You enjoyed the meal offered by Vidura, the foods
presented by Kunt�, Your lunch on the peak of Govardhana Hill, the chipped rice of
Sud�m� Br�hma�a, the breast-milk offered by Mother Ya�od�, the meal offered by
Bharadv�ja Muni, the food offered by �abarik�, the many dishes presented by the
wives of the br�hma�as, as well as the taste of the gop�s lips, I hope the offering
of food I now place before You You will enjoy in the same way.
-author unknown

Text 119

k��re �y�malay�rpite kamalay� vi�r�nite ph�nite


datte la���n� bhadray� madhu-rase som�bhay� lambhite
tu��ir y� bhavatas tata� �ata-gu�a� r�dh�-nide��n may�
nyaste 'smin puratas tvam arpaya hare ramyopah�re ratim

k�ire-in the milk; �y�malaya-by Syamala; arpite-presented; kamalaya-by Kamala;


visranite-presented; phanite-the phanita; datte-given; laddun�-the laddus;
bhadraya-by Bhadra; madhu-rase-the madhu-rasa; somabhaya-by Candravali; lambhite-
presented; tusti�-pleasure; ya-which; bhavata�-of You; tata�-then; sata-a hundred
times; gunam-multiplied; r�dh�-of R�dh�; nidesat-from the instruction; maya-by me;
nyaste-placed; asmin-in this; purata�-in Your presence; tvam-You; arpaya-please
place; hare-O Lord Hari; ramya-delicious; upahare-in the presentation; ratim-
pleasure.

O Lord Hari, You greatly enjoyed the k��ra presented by �y�mal�, the ph��ita
presented by Kamal�, the la��us given by Bhadr�, and the madhurasa offered by
Candr�val�. I hope that the delicious food I have prepared under R�dh�r���'s
guidance, and I now place before You, You will enjoy a hundred times more that what
was offered by these other gop�s.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

�r� Mathur�-mahim�
The Glory of Mathur�

Text 120

he m�tar m�thure tvam eva niyata� dhany�s� bh�mi-tale


nirvy�ja� nataya� �ata� sa-vidhayas tubhya� sad� santu na�
hitv� hanta nitantam adbhuta-gu�a� vaiku��ham utka��haya
tvayy ambhoja-vilocana� sa bhagav�n yen�vat�r�o hari�

he-O; mata�-mother; mathure-Mathur�; tvam-you; eva-certainly; niyatam-


eternally; dhanya-fortunate and glorious; as�-are; bhum�-of the earth; tale-on the
surface; nirvyajam-without duplicity; nataya�-obeisances; satam-hundreds of times;
sa-vidhaya�-failing down like a stick; tubhyam-to you; sada-always; santu-may be;
na�-of us; hitva-leaving; sada-always; santu-may be; na�-of us; hitva-leaving;
hanta-indeed; nitantam-the extraordinary; adbhuta-with wonderful; gunam-qualities;
vaikuntham-Vaikuntha world; utka��haya-eagerly; tvay�-in you; ambhoja-lotus;
vilocana�-with eyes; sa�-He; bhagavan-the Supreme Personality of Godhead; yena-
because; avatirna�-descended; hari�-Lord Hari.

O Mother Mathur�, lotus-eyed Lord Har� left His wonderful Vaiku��ha world and
eagerly appeared within your boundary. You are very fortunate and glorious in this
world. We repeatedly offer our respectful obeisances, bowing before you hundreds of
times.
-author unknown

Text 121

atr�s�t kila nanda-sadma �aka�asy�tr�bhavad bha�jana�


bandha-ccheda-karo 'p� d�mabhir abh�d baddho 'tra d�modara�
ittha� m�thura-v�ddha-vigalat-p�y��a-dh�r�� pibann
�nand��ru-dhara� kad� madhu-pur�� dhanya� cari�y�my aham

atra-here; as�t-was; nanda-of Mah�r�ja Nanda; sadma-the home; �aka�asya-of the


cart; atra-here; abhavat-ocurred; bha�janam-the breaking; bandha-of bondage; cheda-
kara�-the breaker; ap�-although; d�mabhi�-by ropes; abh�t-was; baddha�-bound; atra-
here; d�modara�-K���a; ittham-in this way; m�thura-in M�thura; v�dddha-of the
elderly guides; vaktra-from the mouths; vigalat-flowing; p�y��a-of nectar; dh�r�m-
the stream; piban-drinking; �nanda-of bliss; a�ru-tears; dhara�-manifesting; kad�-
when; madhu-pur�m-the city of Math�ra; dhanya�-fortunate; cari�y�mi-will go; aham-
I.

When will I become fortunate to visit Mathur� Pur� and shed tears of bliss as
I drink from the stream of nectar words flowing from the mouths of the old guides
there who say, "Here was Nanda Mah�r�ja's home. Here the cart was broken. Here Lord
D�modara, who breaks the bonds of birth and death for His devotees, was Himself
tied up with ropes by Mother Ya�od�"?
-�r� Kavi�ekhara

Text 122
yatr�khil�di-gurur ambuja-sambhavo 'pi
stamb�tman� janur anusp�hay�� babh�va
cakra-dhvaj��ku�a-lasat-pada-r�ji-ramy�
s� r�jate 'dya mathur� hari-r�jadh�n�

yatra-where; akhila-of everyone; ad�-the original; guru�-guru; ambuja-from the


lotus flower; sambhava�-born; ap�-even; stamba-atmana-as a bunch of grass; janu�-a
birth; anusprhayam babhuva-desired; cakra-with the cakra; dhvaja-flag; a�kusa-
elephant-goad; lasat-splendid; pada-of footprints; raj�-series; ramya-delightful;
sa-that; rajate-is splendidly manifest; adya-today; mathura-Mathur�; har�-of Lord
K���a; rajadh�ni-the capital.

Mathur�, Lord K���a's capitol, beautifully decorated with footprints marked


with a cakra, flag, and elephant-rod, where Brahm�, who was born from a lotus
flower and is the original guru of everyone, yearned to take birth as a blade of
grass, is splendidly manifest, even now.
-author unknown

Text 123

b�ja� mukti-taror anartha-patal�-nist�raka� t�raka�


dh�ma prema-rasasya v��chita-dhur�-samp�raka� p�rakam
etad yatra niv�sin�m udayate cic-chakti-v�tti-dvaya�
mathn�tu vyasan�ni m�thura-pur� s� va� �r�ya� ca krit�t

b�jam-seed; mukt�-of liberation; taro�-of the tree; anartha-of distresses;


pa�al�-of the multitude; nist�rakam-delivering; t�rakam-the T�raka energy; dh�ma-
abode; prema-rasanya-of pure love of God; v��chita-of desires; dhur�-of the
multitude; samp�rakam-fulfilled; p�rakam-the P�raka energy; etat-this; yatra-where;
niv�sin�m-of those who dwell; udayate-arises; cit-transcendental; �akt�-energy;
v�tt�-activities; dvayam-two; mathn�tu-may destroy; vyasan�ni-sins; m�thura-
Mathur�; pur�-city; s�-she; va�-to you; �r�yam-treasure of pure love of God; ca-
and; kriy�t-may grant.

May Mathura� Pur�, where two transcendental potencies, t�raka, which is the
seed of the tree of liberation and the savior from a host of sufferings, and
p�raka, which satisfies the thirst for the nectar of pure love of K���a, arise
among the residents, crush all your sins and give you the treasure of pure love for
Lord K���a.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 124

vitarat� mura-mardana� prabhus te


na h� bhajam�na-jan�ya ya� kad�pi
vitaras� bata bhakti-yogam eta�
tava mathure mahim� gir�m abh�mi�

vitarat�-gives; mura-of the Mura demon; mardana�-the crusher; prabhu�-the


Lord; te-of you; na-not; h�-indeed; bhajamana-janaya-to the devotees; yam-which;
kada ap�-at any time; vitaras�-you give; bata-indeed; bhakt�-yogam-devotional
service; etam-that; tava-of you; mathure-O Mathur�; mahima-the glory; giram-by
words; abhumi�-inexpressable.

O Mathur�, even your master, Lord Muramardana, refuses to give the exalted
stage of devotional service you easily give to the devotees. O Mathur�, words have
no power to properly describe your glories.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�
Text 125

�rava�e mathur� nayane mathur�


vadane mathur� h�daye mathur�
purato mathur� parato mathur�
madhur� madhur� mathur� mathur�

sravane-in the ears; mathura-Mathur�; nayane-in the eyes; mathura-Mathur�;


vadane-in the mouth; mathura-Mathur�; h�daye-in the heart; mathura-Mathur�;
purata�-in front; mathura-Mathur�; parata�-behind; mathura-Mathur�; madhura-sweet;
madhura-sweet; mathura-Mathur�; mathura-Mathur�.

Mathura� is in my ears. Mathura� is in my eyes. Mathura� is in my voice.


Mathura� is in my heart. Mathura� is before me. Mathura� is behind me. Mathura� is
sweet. Mathura� is sweet.
-�r� Govinda Mi�ra

�r� V�nd��av�-vandanam
Obeisances to V�nd�vana

Text 126

tva� bhaja hira�yagarbha�


tvam api hara� tva� ca tat para� brahma
vinihita-k����nandam
aham tu v�nd��av�� vande

tvam-you; bhaja-worship; hira�yagarbham-Lord Brahm�; tvam-you; ap�-also;


haram-Lord �iva; tvam-you; ca-also; tat param brahma-the Supreme Brahman; vinihita-
given; k���a-to Lord K���a; �nandam-bliss; aham-I; tu-but; v�nd��av�m-the forest of
V�nd�vana; vande-worship.

Go ahead and worship Lord Brahm�! Go ahead and worship Lord �iva! Go ahead and
worship the Supreme Brahman! I will not follow you. I will simply worship V�nd�vana
forest, which brought transcendental delight to Lord K���a.
-author unknown

�r� Nanda-pra��ma�
Obeisances to Nanda Mah�r�ja

Text 127

�rutim apare sm�tim itare


bh�ratam anye bhajantu bhava-bhit��
aham iha nandam vande
yasy�linde para� brahma

�rutim-Vedic literature; sm�tim-corollary to the Vedic lierature; itare-othes;


bh�ratam-Mah�bh�rata; anye-still others; bhjantu-let them worship; bhava-bhit��-
those who are afraif of material existance; aham-I; iha-here; nandam-Mah�r�ja
Nanda; vande-worship; yasya-whose; alinde-in the courtyard; param brahma-the
Supreme Brahman, Absolute Truth.

Those who are afraid of material existence worship Vedic literature. Some
worship sm�ti, the corollaries to Vedic literature, and others worship the
Mah�bh�rata. As far as I am concerned, I worship Mah�r�ja Nanda, the father of
K���a, in whose courtyard the Supreme Personality of Godhead, the Absolute Truth,
is playing.
-�r� Raghupat� Up�dhy�ya

Text 128

bandh�k�ru�a-vasana�
sundara-k�rca� mukunda-h�ta-nayanam
nanda� tundila-vapu�a�
candana-gaura-tvi�a� vande

bandh�ka-as a bandh�ka flower; aru�a-red; vasanam-wearing garments; sundara-


handsome; k�rcam-whose face; mukunda-by K���a; h�ta-taken; nayanam-whose eyes;
nandam-to Nanda Mah�r�ja; tundila-chubby; vapu�am-whose form; candana-of
sandalwood; gaura-yellow; tvi�am-whose complexion; vande-I offer my respectful
obeisances.

I offer my respectful obeisances to Nanda Mah�r�ja. His garments are red as a


bandh�ka flower. His face is handsome. His chubby form is the golden color of
sandalwood paste. His eyes are enchanted by the sight of Lord Mukunda.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

�r� Ya�od�-vandanam
Obeisances to Mother Ya�od�

Text 129

a�kaga-pa�kajan�bh��
navya-ghan�bh�� vicitra-ruci-sicay�m
viracita-jagat-pramod��
muhur ya�od�� namay�mi

a�ka-on the lap; ga-gone; pa�kaja-n�bh�m-lotus-naveled Lord K���a; navya-a


fresh; ghana-of a raincloud; �bh�m-the color; vicitra-wonderful; ruc�-with beauty;
sicay�m-garments; viracita-created; jagat-of the world; pramod�m-delight; muhu�-
repeatedly; ya�od�m-to Mother Ya�od�; namasy�mi-I offer respectful obeisances.

Mother Ya�od� holds Lord Pa�kajan�bha (K���a) on her lap. Her garments are
wonderfully beautiful. Her complexion is the color of a fresh raincloud. She
delights the entire world. I repeatedly offer my respectful obeisances to her.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

�r� K���a-�ai�avam
�r� K���a's Childhood

Text 130

ati-lohita-kara-cara�am
ma�jula-gorocana-tilakam
ha�ha-parivartita-�aka�a�
mura-ripum uttama-��yina� vande

at�-lohita-charmingly reddish; kara-hands; cara�am-and feet; ma�jula-


beautiful; gorocana-with the yellow pigment gorocana; tilakam-tilaka markings;
hatha-violently; paritvartita-overturned; sakatam-the cart; mura-of the Mura demon;
ripum-to the enemy; uttana-sayinam-lying on His back; vande-I offer my respectful
obeisances.

Lying on His back, His hands and feet charmingly reddish, and His forehead
gracefully decorated with yellow gorocana tilaka markings, Lord Mur�ri violently
overturned the cart. I offer my respectful obeisances to Him.
-author unknown

Text 131

ardhonm�lita-locanasya pibata� pary�ptam eka� stana�


sadya� prasnuta-dugdham-digdham apara� hastena samm�rjata�
m�tr� c��guli-l�litasya vadane smer�yam�ne muhur
vi��o� k��ra-ka�ora-dh�a-dhaval� danta-dyuti� p�tu va�

ardha-half; unm�lita-opened; locanasya-whose eyes; pibata�-drinking;


pary�ptam-attained; ekam-one; atanam-breast; sadya�-at once; prasnuta-flowing;
dugdha-with milk; digdham-anointed; aparam-the other; hastena-with a hand;
samm�rjata�-rubbing; m�tr�-by His mother; ca-also; a�gul�-with her fingers;
l�litasya-being fondled; vadane-in the mouth; smer�yam�ne-smiling; muhu�-
continually; vi��o�-of Lord K���a; k��ra-of milk; ka�a-with drops; danta-of the
teeth; dyuti�-the beauty; p�tu-may protect; va�-you all.

His eyes half-opened, Lord Vi��u drinks the milk of His mother's breast.
Finishing one breast, with His hand He rubs the other, from which the milk has
already begun to flow. His mother fondles Him with her fingers. He smiles. May the
white splendor of Lord Vi��u's teeth, which are anointed with drops of milk,
protect you all.
-�r� Ma�gala

Text 132

gope�var�-vadana-ph�tk�ti-lola-netra�
j�nu-dvayena dhara��m anu sa�carantam
ka�cin nava-smita-sudh�-madhur�dhar�bha�
b�la� tam�la-dala-n�lam aha� bhaj�mi

gopa-of the gopas; ��var�-of the queen; vadana-the face; ph�tk�t�-ignoring;


lola-restless; netram-whose eyes; j�nu-of knees; dvayena-with the pair; dhara��m-
the earth; anu-on; sa�carantam-going; ka�cit-someone; nava-new; smita-of a smile;
sudh�-of the nectar; madhura-with the sweetness; adhara-of the lips; �bham-
manifesting; b�lam-a child; tam�la-of a tamala tree; dala-leaf; n�lam-with the dark
complexion; aham-I; bhaj�mi-worship.

His restless eyes ignoring the face of the queen of the gopas, and His lips
anointed with the sweet nectar of a smile, a infant crawls on the ground with His
knees. I worship that infant, whose complexion is the dark color of a tam�la leaf.
-�r� Raghun�tha d�sa

Text 133

kv�nana� kva nayana� kva n�sik�


kva �ruti� kva ca �ikhet� de�ita�
tatra tatra nihit��guli-dalo
ballav�-kulam �nandayat prabhu�

kva-where?; �nanam-face; nayanam-eyes; kva-where?; n�sik�-nose; kva-where?;


�ruti�-ears; kva-where?; ca-also; �ikh�-top of the head; it�-thus; de�ita�-from the
words; tatra-there; tatra-and there; nihita-placed; a�gul�-finger; dala�-flower
petal; ballav�-of gop�s; kulam-the community; �nandayat-delighted; prabhu�-the
Lord.

The gop�s asked: "Where is Your face? Where are Your eyes? Where is Your
nose? Where are Your ears? Where is the top of Your head?" With each question the
Lord placed His flower-petal finger in the appropriate spot. In this way the infant
Lord delighted the gop�s.
-�r� Kav� S�rvabhauma

Text 134

id�n�m a�gam ak�ali


racita� c�nulepanam
id�n�m eva te k���a
dh�li-dh��arita� vapu�

idanim-now; a�gam-body; ak�al�-I wash; racitam-done; ca-also; anulepanam-


anointing; idanim-now; eva-certainly; te-of You; k���a-O K���a; dhul�-with dust;
dhusaritam-dirtied; vapu�-body.

K���a, one moment I carefully bathe and anoint You, and the next moment You
are again covered with dust!
-�r� S�rvabhauma Bha���c�rya

Text 135

pa�ca-var�am ati-lolam a�gane


dh�vam�nam alak�kulek�a�am
ki�kin�-valaya-h�ra-n�purai
ra�jita� namata nanda-nandanam

pa�ca-five; var�am-years old; at�-very; lolam-restless; a�gane-in the


courtyard; dh�vam�nam-running; alaka-with curls of hair; �kula-filled; �k�a�am-
whose eyes; ki�kin�-of bells; valaya-bracelets; h�ra-necklaces; n�purai�-and
a�klets; ra�jitam-tinkling sounds; namata-all of you please offer respectful
obeisances; nanda-of Mah�r�ja Nanda; nandanam-of the son.

His hair getting in His eyes, and His bells, bracelets, necklaces, and anklets
all tinkling, the restless five-year old son of Mah�r�ja Nanda runs in the
courtyard. All of you please bow down to offer respect to Him.
-�r� Agama

�ai�ave 'p� t�ru�yam


Adolescence Manifested in Childhood

Text 136

adharam adhare ka��ha� ka��he sa-c�tu d��au d��or


alikam alike k�tv� gop�janena sa-sambhramam
�i�ur it� rudan k���o vak�a�-sthale nihita� ciran
nibh�ta-pulaka� smera� p�y�t smar�lasa-vigraha�

adharam-lips; adhare-to lips; ka��ham-neck; ka��he-the neck; sa-with; catu-


sweet words; d��au-eyes; d��o�-to eyes; alikam-forehead; alike-to forehead; k�tva-
doing; gop�janena-with gop�; sa-with; sambhramam-care; sisu�-child; it�-thus;
rudan-crying; k���a�-K���a; vak�a�-sthale-on the chest; nihita�-placed; cirat-for a
long time; nibh�ta-manifested; pulaka�-hairs standing up; smera�-smiling; payat-may
protect; smara-amorous feelings; alasa-slow; vigraha�-whose form.

Child K���a approached a gop� and carefully placed His lips against her lips,
His neck against her neck, His eyes against her eyes, and His forehead against her
forehead. Speaking sweetly, He explained that He was, after all, only a small
child, and then He pressed Himself against her breasts for a long time. He then
smiled and the hairs of His body stood up with excitement. May child K���a, whose
body appeared to be too young to enjoy amorous pastimes, protect you all.
-�r� Div�kara

Text 137

br�ma� tvac-carita� tav�bh� janan�� chadm�ti-b�l�k�te


tva� y�d�g giri-kandare�u nayan�nanda kura�g�-d��am
ity ukta� parilehana-cchalatay� nyast��gul�n �nane
gop�bhi� purata� pun�tu jagat�m utt�na-supto hari�

bruma�-we will describe; tvat-You; caritam-activities; tava-Your; abh�-to;


jananim-mother; chadma-disguised; at�-bala-of a small child; ak�te-in the form;
tvam-You; yadrk-as; gir�-of Govardhana Hill; kandare�u-in the caves; nayana-of the
eyes; �nanda�-the bliss; kura�g�-d��am-of the doe-eyed gop�s; it�-thus; ukta�-
spoken; parilehana-sucking; chalataya-in His own; anane-mouth; gop�bhi�-the gop�s;
purata�-before; punatu-may purify; jagatim-the whole world; uttana-supta�-a small
child lying on His back; hari�-K���a.

The gop�s complained: "We will tell Your mother what You have done, how, even
though You pretend to be only a small child, You enjoy amorous pastimes with the
doe-eyed girls, delighting their eyes in the caves of Govardhana Hill." In the view
of all these gop�s, baby K���a cleverly placed a finger in His mouth and began to
suck on it to refute their arguments. May baby K���a purify the entire world.
-�r� Vanam�l�

Text 138

vane-m�lin� pitur a�ke


racayat� b�lyocita� caritam
nava-nava-gop�-vadh�ti-
smita-parip�t� parisphurati

vane-malin�-garlanded with forest-flowers; pitu�-of His father; a�ke-on the


lap; racayat�-performs; balya-for a small child; ucitam-suitable; caritam-
activities; nava-nava-young; gop�-vadhut�-with the gop�s; smita-of amorous smiles;
paripat�-series; parisphurat�-manifests.

While on His father's lap, Lord Vanam�l� acts as a small child, although when
He is alone with the young gop�s, He exchanges amorous smiles.
-�r� Mukunda Bha���c�rya
Text 139

n�ta� nava-navan�ta�
k�yad it� k���o ya�oday� pr�ta�
iyad it� guru-jana-savidhe
vidh�ta-dhani��h�-payodhara� p�y�t

nitam-taken; nava-fresh; navanitam-butter; kiyat-how muhch?; it�-thus; k���a�-


K���a; yasodaya-by Yasoda; prata�-was asked; iyat-this much; it�-thus; garu jana-of
the grown ups; savidhe-in the presence; vidh�ta-held; dhanistha-of Dhanista;
payodhara�-the breast; payat-may protect.

Mother Ya�oda� asked child K���a: "How much butter did You take?" In the
presence of all the grown-ups child K���a grasped Dhani��h�'s breast and said:
"This much."
-�r� S�ra�ga

Text 140

kva y�s� nanu caurike pramu�ita� sphu�a� d��yate


dvit�yam iha m�maka� vahasi ka�cuke ka��ukam
tyajat� nava-gopik�-yuga� nimathnan bal�l
lasat-pulaka-ma��ale jayat� gokule ke�ava�

kva-where?; yas�-are you going; nanu-is it no?; caurike-O thief; pramusitam-


the theft; sphutam-clearly; d��yate-is seen; dvitiyam-two; iha-here; mamakam-My;
vahas�-you carry; ka�cuke-in your bodice; kandukam-balls; tyaja-give them up; it�-
thus; nava-of the young; gop�ka-gop�; kuca-of breasts; yugam-the pair; nimathnan-
attacking; balat-forcibly; lasat-manifesting; pulaka-of hairs standing up in
ecstasy; mandala�-the multitude; jayat�-all glories; gokule-in Gokula; kesava�-to
Lord K���a.

Child Ke�ava said to a young gop�: "Thief, where are you going? Have I not
caught you stealing? Under your bodice you are hiding My two toy balls! Give them
up!" His bodily hairs standing erect with joy, He violently attacked that young
gop�'s breasts to retrieve His toy balls. All glories to Lord Ke�ava, who enjoyed
these extraordinary pastimes in Gokula Village.
-�r� D�paka

Gavya-hara�am
Stealing Milk-products

Text 141

d�ra-d���a-navan�ta-bh�jana�
j�nu-ca�krama�a-j�ta-sambhramam
m�t�-bh�ti-parivartit�nana�
kai�ava� kim api �ai�ava� bhaje

d�ra-from far away; d���a-seen; navan�ta-of butter; bh�janam-the pot; j�nu-on


His knees; ca�krama�a-going; j�ta-manifested; smabhramam-haste; m�t�-of His mother;
bh�t�-with fear; parivartita-turning; �nanam-His face; kai�avam-of Lord K���a; kim
ap�-something; �ai�avam-childhood; bhaje-I worship.

Seeing a pot of butter in the distance, baby Ke�ava quickly crawled there,
anxiously turning His face out of fear of His mother. I worship these childhood
pastimes of the Lord.
-author unknown

Text 142

sammu��an navan�tam antika-ma�i-stambhe sva-bimbodgama�


d���v� mugdhatay� kum�ram apara� sa�cintayan �a�kay�
man-mitra� h� bhav�n may�tra bhavato bh�ga� sama� kalpito
m� m�� s�caya s�cayety anunayan b�lo hari� p�tu va�

sammu��an-stealing; navan�tam-butter; antika-nearby; ma��-jewelled; stambhe-in


a pillar; sva-own; bimba-in the reflection; udgamam-manifested; d���v�-seeing;
mugdhatay�-with bewilderment; kum�ram-child; aparam-another; sa�cintaya-thinking;
�a�kay�-with apprehension; mat-My; mitram-friend; h�-indeed; bhav�n-You are; may�-
with Me; atra-here; bhavata�-of You; bh�ga�-a share; sama�-equal; kalpita�-will be;
m�-do not; m�m-Me; s�caya-reveal; s�caya-reveal; it�-thus; anunayan-appeasing;
b�la�-the child; hari�-K���a; p�tu-may protect; va�-you all.

As child Har� was stealing butter He noticed His own reflection in a nearby
jeweled column. Thinking this to be another boy, He became frightened and begged:
"You are My friend. I will share this butter with You. Please don't tell on Me!
Don't tell on Me!" May child Har� protect you all.
-author unknown
Text 143

dadh�-mathana-nin�dais tyakta-nidra� prabh�te


nibh�ta-padam ag�ra� ballav�n�� pravi��a�
mukha-kamala-sam�rair ��u nirv�pya d�p�n
kavalita-navan�ta� p�tu m�� b�la-k���a�

dadh�-yogurt; mathana-of churning; nin�dai�-by the sounds; tyakta-abandoned;


nidra�-sleep; prabh�te-at daybreak; nibh�ta-silent; padam-with feet; ag�ram-the
house; ballav�n�m-of the gop�s; pravi��a�-entered; mukha-mouth; kamala-of the
lotus; sam�rai�-with the breeze; ��u-at once; nirv�pya-extinguishing; d�p�n-the
lamps; kavalita-with a handful; navan�ta�-of butter; p�tu-may protect; m�m-me;
b�la-child; k���a�-K���a.

Awakened at daybreak by the sounds of yogurt-churning, on silent feet child


K���a stealthily entered the gop�s home, extinguished the lamps with His lotus
breath, and stole a handful of butter. I pray child K���a may protect me.
-author unknown

Text 144

savye p�n�u niyamita-rava� ki�kin�-d�ma dh�tv�


kubj�-bh�ya prapada-gatibhir manda-manda� vihasya
ak��or bha�gye vihasita-mukh�r v�rayan sammukh�n�
m�tu� p��c�d aharata harir jatu haiy��gav�nam

savye-in His left; panau-hand; niyamite-checked; ravam-sound; kinkin�-of


bells; dama-the string; dh�tva-holding; kubj�-crooked; bhuya-becoming; pr�pada-on
His toes; gatibhi�-by going; manda-mandam-very gently; vihasya-smiling; akano�-of
His eyes; bhangya-with crooked glances; vihasita-smiling; mukhi�-mouths; varaya�-
warding off; sammukhina�-the gop�s standing before Him; matu�-His mother; pascat-
behind; aharata-stole; hari�-K���a; jatu-one time; haiya�gavinam-butter.

Silencing His belt of bells by holding it in His left hand, gently smiling,
arching His back, creeping up on His tip-toes, and with a crooked glance warding
off the smiling gop�s standing before Him, child Har� stole butter behind His
mother's back.
-�r� �r�m�n

Text 145

pada-ny�s�n dv�r��cala-bhuv� vidh�ya tri-catur�n


samant�d �lola� nayana-yugala� dik�u vikiran
smita� bibhrad vyakta� dadhi-hara�a-l�l�-ca�ula-dh��
sa-�a�kam gop�n�� madhu ripur ag�ra� pravi�ati

pada-ny�s�n-footsteps; dv�ra-a�cala-bhuv�-in the doorway; vidh�ya-placing;


tr�-three; catur�n-or four; samant�t-everywhere; �lolam-restless; nayana-of eyes;
yugalam-the pair; dik�u-in all directions; vikiran-casting; smitam-a smile;
bibhrat-manifesting; vyaktam-manifested; dadh�-of yogurt; hara�a-stealing; sa-with;
�a�kam-fear; gop�n�m-of the gop�s; madhu-ripu�-Lord K���a, the enemy of the Madhu
demon; ag�ram-the house; pravi�at�-enters.

Taking two or three steps in the doorway, turning His restless eyes in all
directions, smiling, and intent on stealing yogurt, child Madhuripu (K���a)
fearfully enters the house.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�
Text 146

m�dnan k��r�d�-caury�n mas��a-surabhin� s�kkan� p���-ghar�air


�ghr�y�ghr�ya hasta� sapad� paru�ay�n ki�kin�-mekhal�y�m
v�ra� v�ra� vi��le di�� di�� vikiral-locane lola-t�re
manda� manda� janany�� parisaram ayate k��a-gop�la-b�la�

m�dnan-pressing; k�ira-milk; ad�-beginning with; sauryat-from the theft;


masrna-only; surabhin�-and fragant; srkk�ni� the corner of the mouth; p�ni-of His
hands; gharsai�-by rubbing; aghraya-smelling; aghraya-and smelling; hastam-His
hand; sapad�-immediately; parusayan-striking; kinkin�-of bells; mekhalayam-of the
belt; varam-again; varam-and again; visale dis� dis�-in all directions; vikirat-
casting; locane-His eyes; lola-restless; tare-with pupils; mandam mandam-very
slowly; jananya�-of His mother; parisaram-in the vicinity; ayate-goes; kuta�-the
tricky; gopala-cowherd; bala�-child.

Rubbing His hand against the corner of His mouth, which had become oily and
fragant from eating the stolen milk-products, repeatedly smelling His hand,
silencing His belt of bells, and with restless eyes glancing in all directions, the
tricky child Gop�la slowly approached His mother.
-author unknown

Hare� svapn�yitam
Lord Har� Speaks in His Sleep

Text 147

�ambho sv�gata� �syat�m ita ito v�mena padmodbhava


krau�c�re ku�ala� sukha� sura-pate vitte�a no d��yase
ittha� avapna-gatasya kai�abha-ripo� �rutv� janany� gira�
ki� ki� b�laka jalpas�ty anucita� th�th�-k�ta� p�tu va�

�ambho-O �iva; sv�gatam-welcome; �syat�m-be seated; ita�-here; ita�-here;


v�mena-on the left; padma-udbhava-O Brahm�; krau�c�-are-O K�rttikeya; ku�alam-
auspiciousness; sukham-happiness; sura-pate-O Indra; vitta-��a-O Kuvera; na-not; u-
indeed; d��yase-you have been seen; ittham-in this way; svapna-gatasya-dreaming;
kal�abha-ripo�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of Kai�abha; �rutv�-hearing; janany��-of
His mother; gira�-the words; kim-what?; kim-what?; b�laka-improper; th�th�-k�tam-
ejected from the mouth; p�tu-may protect; va�-you all.

Hearing sleeping K���a say, "�iva, welcome! Sit down. Brahm�, you sit at my
left. K�rttikeya! Auspiciousness to you. Indra! Happiness to you. Kuvera! I did not
see you." Mother Ya�od� said: "Child! What, what nonsense are You saying?" I pray
these words of Mother Ya�oda� will protect you all.
-�r� May�ra

Text 148

dh�r� dharitr� bhava bh�ram aveh� ��nta�


nan� e�a ka�sa-hataka� vinip�tay�mi
ity adbhuta-stimita-gopa-vadh�-�rut�ni
svapn�yit�ni vasudeva-�i�or jayanti

dh�r�-calm; dharitr�-O earth; bhava-please become; bh�ram-the burden; aveh�-


please know; ��ntam-is removed; nanu-is it not?; e�a�-this; ka�sa-Ka�sa; hatakam-
the demon; vinip�tay�mi-I kill; it�-thus; adbhuta-with wonder; stimita-stunned;
gopa-vadh�-of the gop�s; �rut�ni-the ears; svapn�yit�ni-words spoken in sleep;
vasudeva-of Mah�r�ja Vasudeva; �i�o�-of the son; jayant�-all glories.
Hearing Vasudeva's son K���a say in His sleep, "Mother Earth, please become
calm. Know that your burden will certainly be removed. Have I not already
practically killed the demon Ka�sa?" the gop�s became stunned with wonder. All
glories to these words Lord K���a spoke in His sleep.
-�r� V�sudeva

Pitror vism�ana-�ik�a���
Instructions and Other Pastimes That Fill K���a's Parents With Wonder

Text 149

k�lind�-puline may� na na may� �ailopa��lye na na


ny�grodhasya tale may� na na may� r�dh�-pitu� pra�gane
d���a� k���a it�rite sa-niyama� gopair ya�od�-pater
vismerasya puro hasan nija-g�h�n niryan hari� p�tu va�

k�lind�-of the Yamun�; puline-on the shore; maya-by me; na-not; na-not; maya-
by me; saila-on Govardhana Hill; upasalye-in the outsk�rts of Vraja Village; na-
not; na-not; nyagrodhasya-of the Banyan tree; tale-at the base; maya-by me; na-not;
na-not; maya-by me; r�dh�-of R�dh�r���; pitu�-of the father; pra�gane-in the
courtyard; d���a�-has been seen; k���a�-K���a; it�-thus; irite-spoken; sa-with;
niyamam-certainly; gopai�-by the gopas; yasoda-of Yasoda; pate�-of the husband;
vismeranya-astonished; pura�-home; niryan-going; hari�-Lord K���a; patu-may
protect; va�-you all.

The gopas confidently said, "I did not see K���a at the Yamun�'s shore. I did
not see Him on Govardhana Hill or at the outskirts of Vraja village. I did not see
Him at the base of the banyan tree. I did not see Him in the courtyard of R�dh�'s
father Mah�r�ja V��abh�nu." As Nanda Mah�r�ja became struck with wonder to hear all
this, smiling K���a slipped out of the house, from right under Nanda's nose. May
K���a protect you all.
-�r� Um�patidhara

Text 150

vatsa sth�vara-kandare�u vicaran d�ra-prac�re gav��


hi�sr�n v�k�ya pura� pur��a-puru�a� n�r�ya�a� dhy�syani
ity uktasya ya�oday� mura-ripor vavy�j jagant� sphurad-
bimbo��ha-dvaya-g��ha-p��ana-va��d avyakta-bh�va� smitam

vatsa-O child; sth�vara-in the forests; kandare�u-in and the caves of


Govardhana Hill; vicaran-going; d�ra-prac�re-far away; gav�m-of the cows; hi�sr�n-
wild beasts; v�k�ya-seeing; pura�-in the presence; pur��a-the oldest; puru�am-
supreme person; n�r�ya�am-on Lord N�r�ya�a; dhy�syas�-You should meditate; it�-
thus; uktasya-spoken; ya�oday�-by Mother Ya�od�; mura-ripo�-of Lord K���a, the
enemy of the Mura demon; avyat-may protect; jagant�-all the universes; sphurat-
manifesting; bimba-bimba fruit; o��ha-lips; dvaya-pair; g��ha-hard; p��ana-
pressing; va��t-from the control; avyakta-not manifested; bh�vam-nature; smitam-a
smile.

Mother Ya�od� said, "Child, when You take care of the cows far away in the
forests or the caves of Govardhana Hill, and You see dangerous wild animals, then
You should meditate on the ancient Supreme Person, Lord N�r�ya�a, and He will
protect You." As Lord K���a heard these words it was only with great difficulty
that He prevented a smile from appearing on His bimba-fruit lips. May that
suppressed smile protect all the worlds.
-�r� Abhinanda

Text 151
r�mo n�ma babh�va hu� tad-abal� s�tet� hu� t�� pitur
v�c� pa�cavat�-vane nivasatas tasy�harad r�va�a�
k���ayet� pur�tan�� nija-kath�� �kar�ya m�trerita�
saumitre kva dhanur dhanur dhanur it� vyagr� gira� p�ntu-va�

r�ma�-R�ma; n�ma-named; babh�va-was; hum-yes; tat-His; abal�-wife; s�t�-was


S�t�; it�-thus; hum-yes; t�m-her; pitu�-of the father; v�c�-by the words;
pa�cavat�-vane-in Pa�cavat� forest; nivasata�-residing; tasya-of Him; aharat-
kidnapped; r�va�a�-R�va�a; k���asya-of K���a; it�-thus; pur�tan�m-ancient; nija-of
Himself; kath�m-the narrative; �kar�ya-hearing; m�tr�-by His mother; �rit�m-spoken;
saumitre-O Lak�ma�a, son of Sumitra; kva-where; dhanu�-My bow; dhanu�-bow; dhanu�-
bow; it�-thus; vyagr�-alarmed; gira�-words; p�ntu-may protect; va�-you all.

"There once was a king named R�ma."


"Yes."
"His wife was S�t�."
"Yes."
"On the order of His father, R�ma lived in the Pa�cavat� forest. There R�va�a
kidnapped S�t�."
As Lord K���a heard His mother narrate His own activities performed in ancient
times, He suddenly called out: "Lak�ma�a! Where is My bow? Where is My bow? Where
is my bow?" I pray these alarmed words of Lord K���a may protect you all.
-author unknown

Text 152

�y�moccandra svapi�� na �i�o nait� m�m adya nidr�


nidr�-heto� ��nu suta kath�� k�m ap�rv�� kuru�va
vyakta� stambh�n naraharir abh�d d�nava� d�rayi�yann
ity uktasya smitam udayate devak�-nandanasya

�y�ma-darkness; uccandra-the rising moon; svapi��-You sleep; na-not; �i�o-O


child; na-not; it�-thus; m�m-to Me; adya-now; nidr�-sleep; nidr�-of sleep; heto�-of
the cause; ���u-please hear; suta-O son; kath�m-a story; k�m-what?; ap�rv�m-
unprecedented; kuru�va-you may do; vyakta�-appeared; abh�t-was; d�navam-the demon;
d�rayiya�an-about to rip into pieces; it�-thus; uktasya-spoken; smitam-a smile;
udayate-arose; devak�-nandanasya-of Lord K���a, the son of Devak�.

"O my rising dark moon, my child, You are not asleep?"


"No. Sleep has not yet come to Me."
"Listen, my son. I will tell You a bedtime story that will make You fall
asleep."
"What is this story I have never heard? Please tell it."
Mother Ya�od� then told the story. When she came to the sentences, "Then Lord
N�si�ha appeared from the pillar. Lord N�si�a was very eager to rip the demon to
shreds." a smile suddenly arose on child K���a's lips.
-�r� Sarv�nanda

Go-rak��di-l�l�
Protecting the Cows and Other Pastimes

Text 153

deva tvam eka-ja�ghav�layita-l�gu�i-m�rdhn� vinyasta-b�hur


g�yan go-yuddha-g�tir uparacita-�ira�-�ekhara� pragrahe�a
darpa-sphurjan-mahok�a-dvaya-samara-kal�baddha-d�rgh�nubandha�
kr���-gop�la-m�rtir mura-ripur avat� atta-go-rak�a-l�l��
deva�-Lord; tvam-You; eka-one; jangha-leg; avalayita-straight; lagud�-of the
stick; murdhn�-on the head; vinyasta-placed; bahu�-an arm; gayan-singing; go-for a
cow; yuddha-of the battle; giti�-the songs; uparacita-fashioned; sira�-on the head;
sekhara�-a crown; pragrahena-by holding; darpa-arrogance; sphurjat-manifesting;
mahok�a-by great bulls; dvaya-of a pair; samara-of battle; kala-in the arts;
abaddha-entangled; dirgha-for a long time; anubandha�-in relationship; kr��a-
pastime; gopala-of a cowherd boy; murti�-in the form; mura-ripu�-Lord K���a, the
enemy of the Mura demon; avatat-may protect; atta-great; go-of the cows; rak�a-in
protecting; l�l��-whose pastimes.

Wearing a crown, and His hand on the head of a cane, the Lord loudly sings the
song sung by bulls when they challenge each other for the sake of a cow. Hearing
the challenge, two large, arrogant bulls appear and for a long time remain absorbed
in the arts of battle. I pray Lord Mur�ri, the playful cowherd boy who enjoys
pastimes of protecting the cows and bulls, will always protect you.
-�r� Yoge�vara

Text 154

y�vad gop� madhura-mural�-n�da-matt� mukunda�


manda-spandair ahaha sakalair locanair �pibanti
g�vas t�van mas��a-yavasa-gr�sa-lubdh� vid�ra�
y�t� govardhana-giri-dar�-dro�ik�bhyantare�u

y�vat-when; gopa�-the cowherd boys; madhura-the sweet; mural�-of the flute;


nada-by the sounds; matta�-intoxicated; mukundam-Lord K���a; manda-without;
spandai�-movement; ahaha-aha!; sakalai�-with all; locanai�-eyes; apibant�-drink;
gava�-the cows; tavat-then; masrna-soft; yavasa-of grasses; grasa-for mouthfuls;
lubdha�-eager; viduram-far away; yata�-gone; govardhana-gir�-of Govardhana Hill;
dar�-dronkia-abhyntare�a-in the caves.

When the cowherd boys become intoxicated by the sweet sounds of the flute, and
with unblinking eyes drink the sight of Lord Mukunda, then the unattended cows,
eager for soft grasses to eat, wander far away and enter the caves of Govardhana
Hill.
-�r� Ke�avacchatr�

Gop�n�� premotkar�a�
The Exalted Nature of the Gop�s Love

Text 155

dhairya� m�na-parigrahe 'p� jaghane yac c���uk�lambana�


gop�n�� ca vivecana� nidhuvan�rambha raho-marganam
s�dhv�-sac-carita� vil�sa-viratau patyur g�h�nve�a�a�
tat-tad-gaurava-rak�a�a� mura-ripor va���-rav�pek�a�am

dhairyam-peaceful composure; mana-in pride; parigrahe-in taking; ap�-although;


jaghane-on the gop�s; yat-which; ca-also; a�suka-of garments; alambanam-resting;
gop�nam-of the gop�s; ca-also; vivecanam-decision; nidhuvana-of amorous pastimes;
arambhe-in the action; raha�-a solitary place; marganam-the search; sadhv�-of pious
girls; sat-the pious; caritam-actions; vilasa-of amorous pastimes; viratau-in the
cessation; patyu�-of their husbands; g�ha-for the homes; anvesanam-the search; tat-
tat-various; gaurava-of respectable elders; rak�a�am-protection; mura-ripo�-of Lord
K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon; va���-of the flute; rava-for the sound;
apek�a�am-hope.

With an air of peaceful respectability the gop�s placed nice garments around
their hips and went to enjoy amorous pastimes with K���a in a solitary place. The
sound of K���a's flute stunned their vow of chastity, their attachment to their
husbands homes, and all the protections offered by their elders.
-�r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

Text 156

vilokya k���am vraja-v�ma-netra�


sarvendriy�n�� nayanatvam eva
�kar�ya tad-ve�u-nin�da-bha�g��
aicchan punas t�� �rava�atvam eva

vilokya-seeing; k���am-K���a; vraja-of Vraja; v�ma-netra�-the beautiful-eyed


girls; sarva-of all; indriy�n�m-the senses; nayanatvam-hearing; tat-of Him; ve�u-of
the flute; nin�da-of the sounds; bha�g�m-the waves; aicchan-desired; puna�-again;
t��-they; �rava�atvam-the nature of being ears; eva-certainly.

When the beautiful-eyed girls of Vraja saw Lord K���a they wished all their
senses were eyes, and when they heard the waves of music from His flute they wished
all their senses were ears.
-author unknown

Gop�bhi� saha l�l�


Pastimes With The Gop�s

Text 157

k�lind�-jala-keli-lola-taru�ir �v�ta-c�n���uk�
nirgaty��ga-jal�ni s�ritavat�r �lokya sarv� di�a�
t�ropanta-milan-niku�ja-bhavane g��ha� cir�t pa�yata�
�aure� sambhramayann im� vijayate s�k��a-ve�u-dhvani�

k�lind�-of the Yamun�; jala-water; kel�-for pastimes; lola-eager; taruni�-the


young girls; avita-abandoned; cina-their silk; a�suka-garments; nirgatya-emerging
from the water; a�ga-of their bodies; jal�ni-the water; saritavati�-removing;
alokya-looking; sarva�-in all; disa�-directions; tira-the shore; upanta-near;
milat-meeting; niku�ja-of the grove; bhavane-in the abode; gudham-hidden; cirat-for
a long time; pa�yata�-looking; saure�-of Lord K���a; sambhramayan-enchanting; ima�-
the gop�s; vijayate-all glories; sa-akuta-tricky; ve�u-of the flute; dhvani�-to the
sound.

Removing their silk saris, the young gop�s eagerly sported in the waters of
the Yamun�. After some time they intently looked in all directions, and then,
certain that no one was watching, emerged from the water and carefully dried their
naked bodies. Meanwhile, hidden in a nearby forest grove, Lord K���a had been
watching their every movement for a long time. At a certain moment He began to play
His flute. All glories to Lord K���a's tricky flute-music, which completely charms
the girls of Vraja.
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Tasu k���asya bhavah


Lord K���a's Love for the Gop�s)

Text 158

sved�pl�vita-p���-padma-mukula-prakr�nta-kampoday�d
visrastam avij�nato muralik�� p�d�ravindopari
l�l�-vellita-ballav�-kavalita-sv�ntasya v�nd�vane
j�y�t ka�sa-ripos tri-bha�ga-vapu�a� ��nyoday� phut-k�ti�
sveda-with perspiration; aplavita-infatuated; p�ni-hands; padma-lotus; mukula-
buds; prakranta-begun; kampa-of trembling; udayat-from the arisal; visrastam-
fallen; avijanata�-unaware; muralikam-the flute; pada-feet; avijanata�-lotus;
upar�-on; l�l�-with pastimes; vellita-moving; ballav�-by the gop�s; kavalita-
devoured; sva-antasya-whose heart; v�nd�vana-in V�nd�vana; jiyat-all glories;
ka�sa-ripo�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of Ka�sa; tr�-three-fold; bha�ga-bending;
vapusa�-whose form; sunyap-nothing; udaya-arising; phut-k�ti�-blowing.

The gracefully moving gop�s captured Lord K���a's heart. His hands perspired
and trembled. Lord K���a, whose form was bent in three places, was unaware that the
flute had dropped from His lutus-bud hands and fallen to His lotus feet. He began
to blow into what He though was His flute, but no sound emerged. All glories to
that soundless blowing of Lord K���a.
-�r� Cira�j�va

�r�-K���asya prathama-dar�ane �r�-r�dh�-pra�na�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Inquiry on First Seeing �r� K���a)

Text 159

bhr�-valli-t���ava-kal�-madhur�nana-�r��
ka�kelli-koraka-karambita-kar�ap�ra�
ko 'ya� nav�na-nika�opala-tulya-deho
va���-ravena sakh� m�m ava��-karoti

bhr�-of the eyebrows; vall�-of the vines; tandava-of dancing; kala-with the
art; madhura-charming; anana-of the face; �r��-beauty; ka�kell�-asoka; koraka-buds;
karambita-mixed; kar�apura�-earrings; ka�-who?; ayam-is this; navina-new; nikasa-
upala-a black; nikasa-stone; tulya-with the sound; sakhi-O friend; mam-Me; avas�-
karot�-overwhelms.

Friend, who is this person? His body is like a new black nika�a stone. He
wears earrings of a�oka buds. The vines of eyebrows dance on His charming, handsome
face. I am overcome by the sound of His flute.
-author unknown

Text 160

ind�varodara-sahodara-medura-�r�r
v�so dravat-kanaka-v�nd�-nibha� dadh�na�
�mukta-mauktika-manohara-h�ra-vak�a�
ko 'ya� yuv� jagad ana�gamaya� karoti

indivara-of the blue lotus flowers; udara-of the whorlds; sahodara-the


brother; medura-glistening; �r��-beauty; vasa�-garments; dravat-molten; kanaka-of
gold; v�nd�-of an abundance; nibham-the likeness; dadhana�-wearing; amukta-wearing;
mauktika-of pearls; manohara-charming; hara-necklace; vak�a�-on His chest; ka�-
who?; ayam-is this; yuva-youth; jagat-the entire world; ana�ga-with amorous desire;
mayam-filled; karot�-does.

Who is this teen-age boy? A charming pearl-necklace decorates His chest. He


is dressed in garments the color of molten gold. The splendid complexion is the
brother of the blue lotus whorl. He fills the world with amorous passion.
-�r� Sarvavidyavinoda

Sakhya uttaram
The Reply of R�dh�'s Gop�-friend

Text 161
ast� ko 'p� timira-st�nandhaya�
ki�cid a�cita-pada� sa g�yati
yan man�g api ni�amya k� vadh�r
n�vadh�ta-h�dayopaj�yate

ast�-is; kah ap�-this person; timira-dark-complexioned; st�nandhaya�-boy;


ka�cit-something; ancita-beautiful; padam-music; sa�-He; gayat�-plays; yat-which;
manak-slightly; ap�-even; nisamya-hearing; ka-what?; vadhu�-girl; na-not; avadhuta-
trembling; h�daya-heart; upajayate-is manifested.

He is a dark-complexioned boy who plays very beautiful music. What girl will
not tremble at heart by hearing His music for even a moment?
-author unknown

�r�-R�dh�y�� p�rva-r�ga�
The Beginning of R�dh�'s Love

Text 162

mano gata� manmatha-b��a-b�dham


�vedayant�va tanor vik�rai�
d�n�nan� v�cam uv�ca r�dh�
tad� tad �l�-jana-sammukhe s�

mana�-in the heart; gatam-gone; manmatha-of cupid; bana-of the arrow; badham-
the wound; avedayant�-informing; iva-as if; tano�-of the body; vikarai�-with
ecstatic symptoms; dina-unhappy; anana-face; vacam-words; uvaca-spoke; r�dh�-R�dh�;
tada-then; tat-of Her; al�-jana-of the friends; sammukhe-in the presence; sa-She.

Unhappy-faced R�dh� said to Her friends: "My heart is wounded by K�ma's arrow.
My body is now filled with the symptoms of love."
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Text 163

yad-avadh� yamun�-ku�je
ghana-rucir avalokita� ko 'pi
nalin�-dala iva salila�
tad-avadh� taral�yate ceta�

yat-avadh�-when; yamun�-on the Yamun�'s shore; ku�je-in the grove; ghana-of a


raincloud; ruci�-this person whose splendid bodily complexion is like the color;
avalokita�-is seen; kah ap�-this person; nalin�-of a lotus flower; dale-on the
leaf; iva-like; sal�l�m-a drop of water; tat-avadh�-then; taralayate-trembles;
ceta�-My heart.

Since, in the forest by the Yamun�, I saw this person whose complexion is the
color of a dark raincloud, My heart has been trembling like a drop of water on a
lotus leaf.
-�r� Kavicandra

Text 164

akasm�d ekasmin path� sakh� may� y�muna-ta�a�


vrajantye d���o 'ya� nava-jaladhara-�y�mala-tanu�
sa d�g-bha�gy� ki� v�kuruta na h� j�ne tata ida�
mano me vy�lola� kvacana g�ha-k�tye na balate
akasm�t-by accident; ekasmin-on one; path�-path; sakhi-O friend; maya-by Me;
yamun�-of the Yamun�; tatam-to the ba�k; vrajantya-going; d���a�-was seen; ayam-He;
nava-fresh; jaladhara-raincloud; �y�mala-black; tanu�-whose body; sa�-He; drk-
bhangya-with a crooked glance; kim-what?; va-or; akuruta-did; na-not; h�-indeed;
jane-I know; tata�-since then; idam-this; mana�-mind; me-my; vyalolam-restless;
kvacana-something; g�ha-k�tye-in household duties; na-not; balate-is able.

Friend, one time, as I walked on the path to the Yamun�'s bank I saw a boy
whose complexion was the color of a dark raincloud. What spell did He cast on Me
when He glanced at Me with those crooked eyes? I do not know. Since that time My
heart is always very agitated. It no longer allows Me to perform My household
duties.
-�r� Jayanta

Text 165

puro n�la-jyotsn� tad anu m�gan�bhi-parimalas


tato l�l�-ve�u-kva�ita� anu k��c�-kala-rava�
tato vidyud-vall�-valayita-camatk�ra-lahar�-
tara�gal l�va�ya� tad anu sahaj�nanda udag�t

pura�-in My presence; n�la-a dark; jyotana-effulgent; tat anu-then; mrganabh�-


of musk; parimala�-the fragance; tata�-then; l�l�-playful; ve�u-of the flute;
kvanitam-music; anu-then; ka�c�-of a sash of bells; kala-the sweet; rava�-sound;
tata�-then; vidyut-of lightning; vall�-of a vine; valayita-encircled; camatkara-of
wonder; lahar�-tara�gat-from the waves; lavanyam-beauty; tat anu-then; sahaja-
natural; �nanda�-bliss; udagat-arose.

First I saw a splendid blue effulgence. Then I smelled the fragance of musk.
Then I heard graceful flute music. Then I heard the sweet tinkling of a sash of
bells. Then I saw waves of wonderful handsomeness encircled by a vine that was a
stationary lightning flash. Then I became filled with bliss.
-author unknown

Text 166

adya sundar� kalinda-nandin�-


t�ra-ku�ja-bhuv� keli-lampa�a�
v�dayan muralik�� muhur muhur
m�dhavo harat� m�maka� mana�

adya-now; sundar�-O beautiful one; kalinda-nandin�-of the Yamuna� River, the


daughter of Mount Kalinda; tira-on the shore; ku�ja-bhuv�-in the grove; kel�-
playful; lampata�-debauchee; v�dayan-playing; muralikam-a flute; muhuh muhu�-
repeatedly; m�dhava�-Lord K���a; harat�-steals; mamakam-My; mana�-heart.

O beautiful friend, as He played the flute for a long time on the Yamun�'s
shore, the playful debauchee M�dhava stole My heart.
-author unknown

Text 167

yad-avadh� yamun�y�s t�ra-v�n�re-ku�je


muraripu-pada-l�l� locan�bhy�m aloki
tad-avadh� mama citta� kutracit k�rya-m�tre
na h� lagat� muh�rta� kim vidheya� na j�ne

yat-avadh�-since; yamun�ya�-of the Yamuna� River; tira-on the shore; vanira-of


vanira trrees; ku�je-in the grove; muraripu-pada-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the
Mura demon; l�l�-the pastimes; locanabhyam-with two eyes; alok�-I saw; tat-avadh�-
since then; karya-matre-in household duties; na-not; h�-indeed; lagat�-rests;
muhurtam-for a moment; kim-what?; vidheyam-should be done; na-do not; jane-I know.

Since with My own eyes I saw K���a's pastimes in the v�n�ra grove on the
Yamun�'s shore, My heart has not allowed Me to perform My household chores. What
should I do? I do not know what to do.
-�r� Kavicandra

Text 168

yad-avadh� yadunandan�nanendu�
sahacar� locana-gocar�-babh�va
tad-avadh� malay�nile 'nale v�
sahaja-vic�ra-para�mukha� mano me

yat-avadh�-since; yadu-nandana-of Lord K���a, the descendent of Maharaja Yadu;


anana-of the face; indu�-the moon; sahacar�-O friend; locana-of the eyes; gocar�-
within the field of perception; babhuva-has come; tat-avadh�-then; malaya-from the
Malaya Hill; anile-in the breeze; anale-in a fire; va-or; sahaja-natural; vicara-
discrimination; para�amukham-turned away; mana�-mind; me-My.

O My friend, since the moon of K���a's face has appeared within the perception
of My eyes, My mind has lost all discrimination. It no longer has the power to
distinguish between the cooling Malayan breeze and the blazing fire.
-�r� Sa�jaya Kavi�ekhara

Text 169

asama�janam asama�jasam
asama�jasam etad �patitam
ballava-kum�ra-buddhy�
har� har� harir �k�ita� kutuk�t

asama�jasam-wrong; asama�jasam-wrong; asama�jasam-wrong; etat-this; �patitam-


has ocurred; ballava-cowherd; kum�ra-boy; buddhy�-with the conception; har�-alas!;
har�-alas!; hari�-Lord Hari; �k�ita�-is seen; kutuk�t-enthusiastically.

It is wrong, wrong, wrong! Alas! Alas! I saw the Supreme Personality of


Godhead, Lord Hari, and I thought He was an ordinary cowherd boy!
-�r� �ara�a

Text 170

�u�yat� mukham uru-yuga�


pu�yat� ja�at�� pravepate h�dayam
svidyat� kapola-p�l�
sakh� vana-m�l� kim aloki

susyat�-dries up; mukham-My mouth; uru-of thighs; yugam-the pair; pusyat�


jadatam-becomes stunned; pravepate-trembles; h�dayam-heart; svidyat�-perspires;
kapola-pal�-cheek�; sakhi-O friend; vana-mal�-Lord K���a, who wears a garland of
forest-flowers; kim-why?; alok�-when I see.

Friend, when I see K���a, who wears a garland of forest-flowers, why does My
mouth become dry, My thighs become stunned, My heart tremble, and My cheeks
perspire?
-�r� Mukunda Bha���c�rya
Text 171

upar� tam�la-taro� sakhi


pari�ata-�arad-indu-ma��ala� ko 'pi
tatra ca mural�-khural�
kula-mary�d�m adho nayati

upar�-above; tamala-taro�-a tamal tree; sakhi-O friend; parinata-a full;


sarat-autumn; indu-mandala�-moon; kah ap�-a certain; tatra-there; ca-also; mural�-
flute; khural�-playing; kula-maryadam-morality; adhah nayat�-mocks.

Friend, I have seen an autumn full-moon shining above a tam�la tree. This
moon's flute music mocks My chastity.
-�r� Sa�jaya Kavi�ekhara

Text 172

hanta k�ntam api ta� didrk�ate


m�nasa� mama na s�dhu yat-k�te
indur indumukh� nanda-m�rutas
candana� ca vitanot� vedanam

hanta-indeed; k�ntam-My lover; ap�-certainly; tam-Him; didrk�ate-desires of


see; manasam-heart; mama-My; na-not; sadhu-happily; yat-k�te-for His sake; indu�-
the moon; indu-mukh�-O moon-faced girl; manda-the gentle; maruta�-breezes;
vitanot�-give; vedanam-torment.

O moon-faced friend, the gentle breezes, the moon, and the scent of sandalwood
torment My heart. It is not happy. It yearns to see My lover, K���a.
-author unknown

Text 173

guru-jana-ga�janam aya�o
g�ha-pati-carita� ca daru�a� kim api
vism�rayat� samasta�
�iva �iva mural� mur�r�te�

guru-jana-of My elders; ga�janam-the rebukes; ayasa�-My infamy; g�ha-pat�-of


My husband; caritam-the activities; ca-also; darunam-harsh; kim ap�-something;
vismarayat�-causes to forget; samastam-everything; siva-alas!; siva-alas!; mural�-
the flute; mura-arate�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon.

Alas! Alas! K���a's flute makes Me completely forget the rebukes of My elders,
My own growing infamy, and the harsh actions of My husband.
-�r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

Text 174

dravi�a� bhavanam apatya�


t�van mitra� tath�bhij�tya� ca
upayamuna� vana-m�l�
y�van netre na n�rtayati

dravinam-wealth; bhavanam-home; apatyam-children; tavat-then; mitram-friends;


tath�-in that way; abhijatyam-good family; ca-also; upayamun�m-on the shore of the
Yamun�; vana-mal�-Lord K���a, who wears a garland of forest flowers; y�vat-as long
as; netre-two eyes; na-does not; nartayat�-cause to dance.
My wealth, home, children, friends, and family all seen important only as long
as Vanam�l� K���a does not glance on Me with dancing eyes on the Yamun�'s shore.
-�r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

Text 175

tu�yantu me chidram av�pya ��trava�


karotu me �asti-bhara� g�he�vara�
ma�is tu vak�oruha-madhya-bh��a�a�
mam�stu v�nd�vana-k���a-candram��

tusyantu-may become pleased; me-of Me; chidram-faults; avapya-attaining;


satrava�-enemies; karotu-may do; me-to Me; sast�-of punishment; bharam-a host;
g�ha-isvara�-My husband; mani�-the jewel; tu-indeed; vak�oruha-breasts; madhya-in
the middle; bhusanam-the ornaments; mama-of Me; astu-may be; v�nd�vana-in
V�nd�vana; k���a-candrama�-the dark moon of Lord K���a.

Let My enemies be pleased to find fault with Me. Let My husband punish Me
again and again. I do not care. Lord K���acandra, who enjoys transcendental
pastimes in V�nd�vana forest, will always be the precious jewel that decorates My
breasts.
-author unknown

Text 176

sv�m� nihantu vihasantu pura� sapatnyo


bh�rtur bhajantu gurava� pitara� ca lajj�m
et�vat� yad� kala�k�-kula� tath�stu
r�m�nuje mama tanotu mano 'nur�gam

sv�mi-My husband; nihantu-may beat Me; vihasantu-may laugh; pura�-in My


presence; sapatnya�-enemies; bhartu�-of My husband; bhajantu-may create; gurava�-
elders; pitara�-parents; ca-and; lajjam-shame; etavata-in this way; yad�-if;
kala�k�-polluted; kulam-family; tath�-in that way; astu-let it be; rama-anuje-for
Lord K���a, the younger brother of Balarama; mama-My; tanotu-will do; mana�-heart;
anuragam-love.

Let My husband beat Me! Let My enemies laugh in My face! Let My parents and
elderly relatives shame Me before My husband! Let My whole family become polluted!
I do not care. My heart will continue to love Balar�ma's younger brother, K���a.
-author unknown

Text 177

sv�m� kupyat� kupyat�� parijan� nindant� nindantu m�m


anyat kim prathat�m aya� ca jagat� prau�ho mamop�drava�
���sya� punar etad eva yad ida� cak�u� cira� vardhat��
yeneda� parip�yate mura-ripo� saundarya-s�ra� vapu�

sv�mi-My husband; kupyat�-is angry; kupyatam-let him be angry; parijana�-


friends; nindat�-rebuke; nindantu-let them rebuke; mam-Me; anyat-else; kim-what?;
prathatam-may be; ayam-that; ca-also; jagat�-in the world; praudha�-great; mama-for
Me; upadrava�-catastrophe; asasyam-desired; puna�-again; etat-this; eva-certainly;
yat-which; idam-that; cak�u�-eyes; ciram-eternally; vardhatam-may increase; yena-by
which; idam-this; paripiyate-may be drunk; mura-ripo�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of
Mura; saundarya-of handsomeness; saram-the nectar; vapu�-the form.

My husband is angry? Let him be angry. My friends rebuke Me? Let them. Let
there fall upon Me whatever other catastrophe there may be in this world. I do not
care. I simply wish that My eyes may eternally drink the nectar of K���a's handsome
form.
-�r� Pu�kar�k�a

Text 178

ki� durmilena mama d�t� manorathena


t�vant� hanta suk�t�ni kay� k�t�ni
et�vad eva mama janma-phala� mur�rir
yan netrayo� path� bibhart� gat�gat�ni

kim-what is the use?; durmilena-of this difficult to attain; mama-My; dut�-O


messenger; manorathena-desire; tavant�-is that way; hanta-indeed; suk�t�ni-pious
deeds; kaya-by whom?; k�t�ni-performed; etavat-in that way; eva-certainly; mama-My;
janma-of the birth; phalam-the fruit; mura-ari�-Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura
demon; yat-which; netrayo�-of the eyes; path�-on the pathway; bibhat�-manifests;
gata-going; agat�ni-and coming.

O messenger-friend, if K���a would walk on the pathway of My eyes, then My


birth will become fruitful. What is the use of this impossible desire? Who is able
to perform the pious activities to obtain this?
-author unknown

Text 179

sakh� mama niyati-hat�y�s


tad-dar�ana-bh�gyam astu v� m� v�
punar api sa ve�u-n�do
yad� kar�a-pathe patet tad ev�lam

sakhi-O friend; mama-of Me; niyat�-whose good fortune; hataya�-is destroyed;


tat-of Him; dar�ana-of the sight; bhagyam-the good fortune; astu-may be; va-or; ma-
not; va-or; punah ap�-again; sa�-that; ve�u-of the flute; nada�-the sound; yad�-if;
kar�a-of the ears; pathe-on the path; patet-may fall; tat-then; eva-certainly;
alam-greatly.

O friend, I am very unfortunate. If the sound of K���a's flute fell once again
on the pathway of My ears, I would not care even whether or not I had the fortune
to see Him.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 180

t�r�bhis�raka caturtha-ni��-sa�a�ka
k�m�mbur���-parivardhana deva tubhyam
ardho namo bhavatu me saha tena y�n�
mithy�pav�da-vacas�py abhim�na-siddhi�

tara-with the stars; abhisaraka-meeting; catustha-on the fourth; nisa-night;


sa�a�ka-O moon; kama-of a orous desires; ambu-ras�-the ocean; parivardhana-causing
tidal waves; deva-O Lord; tubhyam-unto you!; argha�-arghya water; nama�-and
obeisances; bhavatu-let there be; me-for me; saha-with; tena-Him; yuna-the youthful
K���a; mithya-lies; apavada-negating; vacana-with words; ap�-also; abhimana-of
desire; siddhi�-the perfection.

O moon surrounded by stars on the fourth night on the month of Bhadr�, O lord,
O moon making tidal waves in the ocean of amorous desire, I respectfully offer
arghya water to you and I bow down before you. I pray (that by your mercy) my
desire to become the beloved of youthful K���a will become fulfilled in truth.
-author unknown

Anya-catura-sakh�-vitarka�
The Guess of Another Expert Gop�-friend

Text 181

siddhantayat� na ki�cid
bhramayat� d��am eva kevala� r�dhe
tad avagata� sakh� lagna�
kadamba-taru-devat�-marut�

siddhantayat�-a definite conclusion; na-not; ki�cit-something; bhramayat�-


restlessly rolling about; d��am-eyes; eva-certainly; kevalam-indeed; r�dh�-R�dh�;
tat-this; avagatam-understood; sakhi-O friend; lagnam-touched; kadamba-taru-of the
kadamba tree; devata-of the diety; maruta-by the breeze.

Friend,I canot say for certain why R�dh�'s eyes are rolling about in this way.
Perhaps She was touched by the flute-music breeze blowing from the Supreme
Personality of Godhead under the kadamba tree.
-�r� Ra�ga

R�dh�� prat� sakh�-pra�na�


A Gop�-friend's Question to �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 182

k�ma� yapu� pulakita� nayane dh�t��re


v�ca� sa-gadgada-pada� sakh� kamp� vak�a�
j��ta� mukunda-mural�-rava-m�dhur� te
ceta� sudh���u-vadane taral�-karoti

kamam-completely; vapu�-body; pulakitam-hairs standing erect; nayane-eyes;


dh�ta-held; asre-tears; vaca�-words; sa-with; gadgada-pada�-stuttering with a
choked up voice; sakhi-O friend; kamp�-heaving; vak�a�-chest; j��tam-understood;
mukunda-of Lord Krans; mural�-of the flute; rava-of the sound; madhur�-the
sweetness; te-of You; ceta�-the heart; sudha�su-vadane-O moon-faced girl; taral�-
karot�-causes to tremble.

The hairs stand erect on Your body. Your eyes are full of tears. Your words
are choked-up. Your chest heaves with sighs. O moon-faced friend, I know it is the
sweetness of Mukunda's flute music that makes Your heart tremble.
-�r� Ra�ga

Text 183

gata� kula-vadh�-vrata� viditam eva tat-tad-vacas


tath�p� taral��aye na virat�s� ko durgraha�
karom� sakh� kim �rute danuja-vairi-va���-rave
man�g api mano na me sumukh� dhairyam �lambate

gatam-gone; kula-of faithful; vadhu-wife; vratam-the vow; viditam-known; eva-


certainly; tat-tat-various; vaca�-words; tath� ap�-still; tarala-asaye-O fickle-
hearted girl; na-not; virata-stopped; as�-You are; ka�-what?; durgraha�-is the
difficulty; karom�-will I do; sakhi-O friend; kim-what?; �rute-when heard; danuja-
vair�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the demons; va���-of the flute; rave-the sound;
manak-slightly; ap�-even; mana�-heart; na-not; me-My; su-mukh�-O beautiful-faced
friend; dhairyam-peace; alambate-attains.
"O fickle-hearted girl, I know You broke the vow of a faithful wife, and I
know the harsh words You exchanged with Your husband and relatives. Still You will
not give up this affair with K���a. Why is it so hard for You to give Him up?"
"My beautiful-faced friend, what will I do? When � hear the sound of K���a's
flute My heart cannot find a moment's peace."
-author unknown

Text 184

asta� t�vad ak�rtir me


tvay� tathya� tu kathyat�m
citta� katham iv�s�t te
hari-va���-rava-�rutau

astam-let there be; tavat-in that way; ak�rti�-infamy; me-my; tvay�-by You;
tathyam-the truth; tu-indeed; kathyatam-should be spoken; cittam-heart; katham-how
is it?; iva-like; asit-because; te-of you; har�-of Lord K���a; va���-of the flute;
rava-of the sound; �rutau-in the heaing.

Let Me become infamous as K���a's mistress! I don't care. Tell me the truth.
When it heard the sound of K���a's flute, what happened to your heart?
-author unknown

Text 185

satya� jalpas� du�sah� khala-gira� satya� kula� nirmala�


satya� ni�karu�o 'py aya� sahacara� satya� sud�re sarit
tat sarva� sakh� nismar�mi jha�it� �rotr�tithir j�yate
ced unm�da-mukunda-ma�ju-mural�-nisv�na-r�godgati�

satyam-the truth; jalpas�-you speak; duhsaha-diffficult to bear; khal-harsh;


gira�-words; satyam-the truth; kulam-family; nirmalam-pure and spotless; satyam-the
truth; niskaruna�-merciless; ap�-also; ayam-this; sahacara�-friend; satyam-the
truth; su-very; dure-far away; sarit-the river; tat-this; sarvam-all; sakhi-O
friend; vismar�mi-I forget; jhatit�-at once; srotra-of the ears; atithi�-a guest;
jayate-becomes manifested; cet-if; unmada-intoxicating; mukunda-of Lord K���a;
ma�ju-the beautiful; mural�-of the flute; nisvana-sounds; raga-music; udgati�-
manifestation.

You speak the truth. It is true that the harsh rebukes of My superiors are
very hard to bear. It is true that My family's reputation is spotless. It is true
that this friend K���a is merciless. It is true that the Yamun� is very far away.
Still, when the beautiful, intoxicating sound of K���a's flute music becomes a
guest in My ears, I immediately forget all of this.
-�r� Govinda Bha��a

�r�-R�dh�� prat� sakh�-narm��v�sa�


A Gop�'s Joking Words of Encouragement to �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 186

ni�� jalada-sa�kul� timira-garbha-l�na� jagad


vayas tava nava� nava� vapur ap�rva-l�l�-mayam
ala� sumukh� nidray� vraja-g�he 'p� nakta�car�
kadamba-vana-devat� nava-tam�la-n�la-dyuti�

nisa-the night; jalada-with clouds; sa�kula-is filled; timira-of darkness;


garbham-in the opening; linam-entered; jagat-the world; vaya�-age; tava-Your;
navam-is young; navam-fresh; vapu�-body; apurva-unprecedented; l�l�-of pastimes;
mayam-consisting; alam-what is the use?; su-mukh�-O beautiful-faced girl; nidraya-
of this sleeping; vraja-of Vraja Villge; g�he-in a house; ap�-even; naktam-in the
night; car�-wandering; kadamba-of the kadamba trees; vana-of the forest; devata-the
diety; nava-fresh; tamala-of a tamala tree; n�la-with the dark; dyuti�-splendor.

The night is filled with clouds. Darkness has swallwed the world. You are a
young girl and Your body is filled with unprecedented, ever-fresh, playful,
graceful, beauty. O beautiful-faced girl, what is the use of Your sleeping like
this in a house in Vraja village? Wake up! At this moment K���a, whose dark
complexion is the color of a young tam�la tree, and who is the Deity of the kadamba
forest, wanders about in the night.
-�r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

�r� K���a� prat� �r�-r�dh�nur�ga-kathana�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Love is Described to Lord K���a

Text 187

tv�m a�jan�yat� phal�su vilokayant�


tv�� ���vat� kuvalay�yat� kar�ap�ram
tv�� p�r�im�-vidhu-mukh� h�d� bh�vayant�
vak�#o-nil�na-nava-n�lama�i� karoti

tvam-You; a�janiyat�-makes black mascara; phalasu-in a picture; vilokayant�-


gazing; tvam-You; srnvat�-hearing; kuvalayiyat�-makes into a blue lotus flowers;
karma-puram-an earrings; tvam-You; purnima-full; vindhu-moon; mukh�-whose face;
h�d�-in the heart; bhavayant�-meditation; vaksa�-on the chest; nilina-placed; nava-
new; n�lamanim-sapphire; karot�-makes.

When this girl, whose face is like the full moon, gazes at Your picture, She
transforms You into black mascara anointing Her eyes. When She hears about You, She
makes You into a blue lotus flower on Her ear. In Her heart She meditates on You as
a new sapphire decorating Her breast.
-author unknown

Text 188

g�h�ta� tamb�la� parijana-vacobhir na sumukh�


smaraty anta�-��ny� murahara gat�y�m api ni�i
tathaiv�ste hasta� kalita-pha�i-vall�-ki�alaya�
tathaiv�sya� tasy�� kramuka-phala-ph�l�-paricitam

virahena-with separation; yath�-just as; padyavalyam-in Padyavali; g�hitam-


taken; tambulam-betel-nuts; parijana-of the associates; vacobhi�-by the words; na-
not; su-mukh�-the beautiful-faced girl; smarat�-remembers; anta�-within; sunya-
empty; mura-hara-O K���a, killer of the Mura demon; gatayam-gone; ap�-even;
nisayam-the night; tath�-in that way; eva-certainly; aste-rests; hasta�-the hand;
kalita-manifested; ph�ni-betel; vall�-of the vine; kisalaya�-sprouts; tath�-in that
way; eva-certainly; asyam-mouth; tasy��-of her; kramula-phala-phal�-with betel
nuts; pairicitam-filled.

O K���a, O killer of the Mura demon, You absence has so stunned beautiful-
faced R�dh�r��� that as She talks at night with Her friends She cannot remember
whether She took any betelnuts, whether betelnuts are in Her hand, or betelnuts in
Her mouth.
-�r� Harihara

Text 189
prema-p�vaka-l��h��g�
r�dh� tava jagat-pate
�ayy�y�� skhalit� bh�mau
punas ta� gantum ak�am�

prema-of love; pavaka-by the fire; lidha-licked; a�g�-whose limbs; r�dh�-


R�dh�; tava-for You; jagat-of the universe; pate-O Lord; sayyaya�-from the bed;
skhalita-fallen; bhumau-on the ground; puna�-again; tam-to it; gantum-to go;
ak�ama-unable.

O Lord of the universe, Her body licked by the flames of love for You, R�dha�
fell from Her bed to the floor and could not rise again.
-�r� Kavicandra

Text 190

murahare sahasa-garim�
katham iva v�cya� kura�ga-sav�k�ya�
khed�r�ava-patit�pi
prema-dh�ra� te samudvahati

mura-hara-O killer of the Mura demon; sahasa-garima-the greatness; matham-


how?; iva-like; vacya�-may be described; kura�ga-sava-ak�ya�-of fawn-eyed
R�dh�r���; kheda-of suffering; ar�ava-in the ocean; patita-fallen; ap�-although;
prema-of love; dhuram-a great abundance; te-for You; samudvahat�- .

O K���a, how can I describe the greatness of fawn-eyed R�dh�'s love for You?
Even though She has fallen into the ocean of suffering, She still loves You deeply.
-�r� Kavicandra

Text 191

g�yat� g�te �a�sati


va�se v�dayat� sa vipa�ci�u
p��hayat� pa�jara-�uka�
tava sande��k�ara� r�dh�

gayat�-as She sings; gite-songs; sa�sat�-plays; va�se-the flute; v�dayat�-


plays; sa-She; vipancisu-the vina; pathayat�-causes to recite; pa�jara-in a cage;
sukam-a parrot; tava-Your; sandesa-of the letter; ak�aram-the words; r�dh�-R�dh�.

R�dh� taught Her caged parrot to recite the words of Your letter. She turned
Your letter into a song She sings to the accompaniment of flute and v���.
-�r� Govardhan�c�rya

�r�-R�dh�� prat� �r�-k����nur�ga-kathanam


�r� K���a's Love is Described to �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 192

keli-kal�su ku�al� nagare mur�rer


�bh�ra-n�raja-d��a� kat� v� na santi
r�dhe tvay� mahad ak�r� tapo yad e�a
d�modaras tvay� para� param�nur�ga�

kel�-of amorous pastimes; kalasu-in the arts; kusala�-expert; nagare-in the


village of Vraja; mura-are�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon; abhira-
gop�s; niraja-lotus; d��a�-with eyes; kat�-how many?; va-or; na-not; sant�-are;
r�dhe-O R�dh�; tvay�-by You; mahat-great; akar�-performed; tapa�-austerity; yat-
which; esa�-this; damodara�-Lord K���a; tvay�-for You; param-then; parama-supreme;
anuraga�-has love.

O R�dh�, in Vraja village are there not very many lotus-eyed gop�s expert in
amorous pastimes and completely in love with Mur�r�? What great austerities did You
perform to make D�modara love You so much?
-author unknown

Text 193

vats�n na c�rayat� v�dayate na ve�um


�modate na yamun�-vana-m�rutena
ku�je nil�ya �ithila� valitottam��gam
antas tvay� �vasit� sundar� nanda-s�nu�

vatsan-the calves; na-does not; carayat�-herd; v�dayate-plays; na-not; ve�um-


the flute; amodate-is pleased; na-not; yamun�-from the Yamun�; vana-through the
forest; marutena-by the breeze; ku�je-in the forest grove; niliya-entered;
sithilam-slackened; valita-bent; uttama�gam-head; anta�-within; tvay�-by You;
svasit�-sighs; sundar�-O beautiful girl; nanda-of Nanda Maharaja; sunu�-the son.

He will not take care of the calves. He does not play the flute. He is not
pleased by the cooling breezes blowing into the forest from the Yamun� River. He
sits in the forest grove with His head bowed down. O beautiful girl, in His heart
the son of Nanda sighs for You.
-�r� Daity�r� Pa��ita

Text 194

sarv�dhika� sakala-keli-kal�-vidagdha�
snigdha� sa e�a mura-��trur anargha-r�pa�
tva� y�cate yad� bhaja vraja-n�gar� tva�
s�dhya� kim anyad adhika� bhuvane bhavaty��

sarva-of all; adhika�-the best; sakala-in all; kel�-of amorous pastimes; kala-
in the arts; vidagdha�-expert; snigdha�-affectionate; sa�-he; esa�-He; mura-of the
Mura demon; satru�-the enemy; anargha-rupa�-the most handsome; tvam-You; yacate-
begs; yad�-if; bhaja-then worship; vraja-of Vraja; nagar�-O heroine; tvam-You;
sadhyam-attainable; kim-what; anyat-other; adhikam-greater; bhuvane-in the entire
world; bhavatya�-for You.

K���a is the best of lovers. He is the most expert in all the arts of amorous
love. He is the most handsome. He loves You. O heroine of Vraja village, if He begs
You, You should respond to His advances. You should worship Him. What greater lover
could You find in all the world?
-�r� Ra�ga

�r�-R�dh�bhis�ra�
The Meeting With R�dh�

Text 195

manda� vidheh� cara�au paridheh� n�la�


v�sa� pidheh� valay�valim a�calena
me jalpa s�hasin� ��rada-candra-k�nti-
dant��savas tava tama�s� sam�payanti

mandam-softly; vidheh�-place; cara�au-Your feet; paridheh�-wear; n�lam-blue;


vasa�-garments; pidheh�-cover; valaya-of bracelets; avalim-the host; a�calena-with
the edge of Your sari; ma-don't; jalpa-talk; sahasin�-O reckless girl; sarada-
autumn; candra-of the moon; k�nt�-the effulgence; danta-of the teeth; a�sava�-the
rays of light; tava-of You; tama�s�-the darkness; samapayant�-dispells.

Move Your feet softly. Wear these dark blue garments. Cover Your bracelets
with the edge of Your sari. Don't talk. O reckless girl, the autumn moonlight of
Your teeth dispels the darkness.
-�r� S��m�sika

Text 196

kim utt�r�a� panth�� kupita-bhujati-bhoga-vi�amo


vi�odh� bh�yasy�� kim it� kula-p�l�-katu-gira�
it� sm�ra� sm�ra� dara-dalita-��tadyuti-rucau
saroj�k�� sona� di�� nayana-ko�a� vikirati

kim-why?; uttirna�-arisen; pantha�-a path; kupita-angry; bhujag�-of a snake;


bhoga-the coils; visama�-herd; visodha�-tolerated; bhuyasy��-many; kim-why?; it�-
thus; kula-pal�-of the gop�s; katu-harsh; gira�-words; it�-thus; smaram-
remembering; smaram-and remembering; dara-slightly; dalita-broken; sitadyut�-of the
moon; rucau-in the effulgence; saroja-ak��-lotus-eyes R�dh�; sonam-red; dis�-in the
direction; nayana-of the eyes; konam-the corner; vikirat�-cast.

The gop�s said: "What kind of path is this? It turns like the winding coils of
an angry snake. Why must we tolerate this?" Repeatedly remembering the gop�s harsh
words and prayers that the moonlight would light up the darkness, lotus eyed R�dh�
cast in the direction of the very faint moon an angry glance from the reddish
corner of Her eyes. She forbade the moon to shine.
-�r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

Text 197

citrok�r��d api visadhar�d bh�ti-bh�jo rajany��


ki� v� br�mas tvad-abhisara�e s�hasa� m�dhav�sy��
dhv�nte y�nty� yad ati-nibh�ta� r�dhay�tma-prak��a-
tr�s�t p��i� path� pha�i-pha��-ratna-rodh� vyadh�yi

citra-utkirnat-engraved on a medallion; ap�-even; visadharat-from a serpent;


bhit�-fear; bhaja�-possessing; rajanyam-at night; kim-what?; va-or; bruma�-we may
say; tvat-with You; abhisarane-at the meeting; sahasam-rashness; m�dhava-O M�dhava;
asya�-of Her; dhvante-in the darkness; yantya-going; yat-because; at�-very;
nibh�tam-secretly; r�dh�ya-by R�dh�; atma-of it; prakasa-from the effulgence;
trasat-out of fear; pani�-a hand; path�-on the path; ph�ni-of the serpent; phana-
the hood; ratna-the jewel; rodh�-covering; vyadhay�-was done.

O M�dhava, how can we describe R�dh�'s reckless fear of the serpent engraved
on Her medallion? As She walked on the path to secretly meet You in the middle of
the night, She became so afraid the effulgence of the jewel on that serpent's hood
would light up the darkness She covered it with Her hand.
-author unknown

�r�-R�dh�� prat� sakh�-v�kya�


A Gop�-friend's Statement to �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 198

manmathonmathitam acyuta� prati


br�h� ki�cana samullasat-smitam
ki�ca si�ca m�ga��va-locane
locane�gita-sudhaugha-nirjaharai�

manmatha-by amorous desires; unmathitam-agitated; acyutam-infallible K���a;


prat�-to; bruh�-please speak; ki�cana-something; samllasat-glistening; smitam-
smile; ki�ca-therefore; sinca-please sprinkle; mrgasava-fawn; locane-with eyes;
locana-from the eyes; i�gita-of hints; sudha-of nectar; augha-flooding; nirjharai�-
with strea�s.

Say something to the splendidly smiling infallible Personality of Godhead who


stands before You filled with amorous desire. O fawn-eyed girl, sprinkle Him with
the flooding nectar of Your amorous glance.
-author unknown

Text 199

govinde svayam �karo� saroja-netre


prem�ndha v�ra-vapur-arpana� sakh� tvam
k�rpa�ya� na kuru dar�valoka-d�ne
vikr�te kari�� kim a�ku�e viv�da�

govinde-to Lord K���a; svayam-personally; akaro�-do; saroja-netre-O lotus-eyes


girl; prema-by love; andha-blinded; vara-beautiful; vapu�-of the body; arpanam-
offering; sakhi-O friend; tvam-You; karpanyam-miserliness; na-do not; kuru-do;
dara-slight; avaloka-of a glance; dane-in the gift; vikrite-in the elephant-goad;
vivada�-an argument.

My dear friend, You have already sold Yourself and all Your beauty to Govinda.
Now You should not be bashful. Please look upon Him cheerfully. One who has sold an
elephant to another person should not make a miserly quarrel about selling the
trident which controls the elephant.*
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 200

param�nur�ga-paray�th� r�dhay�
p�rirambha-kau�ala-vikasi-bhav�ya
sa tay� saha smara-sabhajanotsava�
niravah�y�c chikhi-�ikha��a-�ekhara�

parama-supremely; anuraga-to love; paraya-devoted; atha-then; r�dh�ya-with


R�dh�; parirambha-in embracing; kausala-expertize; vikas�-bhavaya-manifesting; sa�-
He; taya-Her; saha-with; smara-of cupid; sabhajana-welcoming; utsavam-a festival;
niravahayat-performed; sikh�-sikhanda-sekhara�-Lord K���a, who wears a peacock
feather crown.

With affectionate R�dh�r���, who is very expert at the art of embracing,


peacock-feather crowned K���a enjoyed a great festi�al to welcome the arrival of
K�madeva.
-�r� Kavir�ja Mi�ra

Text 201

asmin ku�je vin�pi pracalat pavana� vartate ko 'p� n�na�


pa�y�ma� ki� na gatvety anusarat� ga�e bh�ta-bh�te 'rbhak�n�m
tasmin r�dh�-sakho va� sukhasya vilasan kr��ay� kai�abh�rir
vy�tanv�no m�g�r�-prabala-ghuraghura-r�va-raudrocca-n�d��

asmin-in this; ku�je-forest grove; vin�-without; ap�-even; pracalat�-trembles;


pavanam-breeze; vartate-is; ka� ap�-someone; n�nam-certainly; pa�y�ma�-we see; kim-
what?; na-not; gatv�-having gone; it�-thus; anusarat�-follows; ga�e-the host;
bh�ta-bh�te-terrified; arbhak�n�m-of boys; tasmin-in this place; r�dh�-sakha�-Lord
K���a, the friend of R�dh�; va�-us; sukhayatu-may delight; vilasan-playing;
kr��ay�-playfully; kai�abha-ari�-the enemy of the Kai�abha demon; vy�tanv�na�-
manifesting; m�g�r�-of a tiger; prabala-ferocious; ghuraghura-roaring; r�va-sounds;
raudra-frightening; ucca-loud; n�d�n-sounds.

This forest grove trembles even though there is no wind. Someone must be here.
We don't see anyone. The cowherd boys have all fled from this place in terror. In
this place there is only R�dh�'s friend K���a, who enjoys pastimes of loudly
playfully, ferociously, and frighteningly roaring like a tiger. May Lord K���a
delight you all.
-author unknown

Kr���nantara� j�nat�n�� sakh�n��


narmokti�
Joking Words of Gop�-friends Aware of the Divine Couple's Intimate Pastimes

Text 202

iha nicula-niku�je madhyam adhyasya rantur


vijanam ajani �ayy� kasya b�la-prav�lai�
it� nigadat� v��de yo�it�� p�ntu yu�m�n
smita-�abalita-r�dh�-m�dhav�lokit�ni

iha-here; nicula-of nicula trees; niku�je-in the grove; madhyam-the middle;


adhyasya-attained; rantu�-of the lover; vijanam-solitary; aj�ni-was made; sayya-a
bed; kasya-of whom?; bala-with new; pravalai�-flower petals; it�-thus; nigadat�-
speaking; v��de-to the host; yositam-of gop�s; pantu-may protect; yusman-you all;
smita-with smiles; sabalita-mixed; r�dh�-of R�dh�; m�dhava-and K���a; alokit�ni-
glances.

The gop�s said: "What passionate lover made this couch of new flower-petals
here in the middle of this solitary grove of nicula trees?" I pray that �r� R�dh�-
M�dhava's smiling glances at these joking gop�s may protect you all.
-�r� R�padeva

Mugdha-b�la-vakyam
The Words of an Innocent Child

Text 203

k���a tvad-vanam�lay� saha h�ta� ken�pi ku�jodare


gop�-kuntala-arha-d�ma tad ida� pr�pta� may� g�hyat�m
ittha� dugdha-mukhena gopa-�i�un�khy�te trap�-namrayo
r�dh�-m�dhavayor jayant� valita-smer�las� d���aya�

k���a-O K���a; tvat-Your; vana-of forest flowers; malaya-the garland; saha-


with; h�tam-taken; kena ap�-by someone; ku�ja-of the forest grove; udare-in the
middle gop�-of the gop�s; kuntala-in the hair; barha-of peacock feathers; dama-the
necklace; tat-this; idam-this; pr�ptam-obtained; maya-by me; g�hyatam-it may be
taken; ittham-in this way; dugdha-mukhena-by a small child; gopa-of a cowherd;
sisuna-the son; akhyate-spoken; trapa-with embarrassment; namrayo�-with bowed
heads; r�dh�-m�dhavayo�-of �r� R�dha�-K���a; jayant�-all glories; valita-
manifested; smera-smiling; alasa�-gentle; d���aya�-glances.

A very young gopa said: "K���a, deep in the forest I found Your forest flower
garland and peacock-feather necklace in this gop�'s hair. Someone must have taken
them from You. Please take them back." Hearing these words, R�dh� and M�dhava
glanced at each other. All glories to Their gently smiling, embarrassed glances.
-�r� Lak�ma�a Sena

�r�-R�dhay� saha din�ntara-keli�. atra sakh�-v�kya�


A Gop�-friend Alludes to R�dh�'s Pastimes With Lord K���a on the Previous Day

Text 204

adhun� dadhi-manthan�nubandha�
kuru�e ki� guru-vibhram�las��gi
kalasa-stani lal�s�t� ku�je
mural�-komala-k�kal� mur�re�

adhuna-now; dadh�-yogurt; manthana-churning; anubandham-activity; kuruse-You


do; kim-why?; guru-great; vibhrama-with fatigue; alasa-tired; a�g�-whose limbs;
kalasa-st�ni-whose breasts are like waterpots; lalas�-of the flute; komala-the
sweet; kakal�-spund; mura-are�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon.

O girl whose breasts are like waterpots, You are very tired. Why churn yogurt
now? At this moment Lord Mur�r� sweetly plays His flute in the forest.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Tasy�� s�k�ta-v�kyam
Her Reply With a Hidden Meaning

Text 205

�va�rur i�gita-daivata� nayanayor �h�-liho y�tara�


sv�m� ni��vasite 'py as�yat� mano-jighra� sapatn�-jana�
tad d�r�d ayam a�jali� kim amun� d�g-bha�gi-bh�vena te
vaidagdh�-vividha-prabandha-rasike vyartho 'yam atra �rama�

svaru�-of My mother-in-law; i�gita-hints; daivatam-diety; nayanayo�-of the


eys; iha-activities; liha�-licking; yatara�-sisters-in-law; sv�mi-husband;
nihsvasite-sighs; ap�-also; asuyat�-is jealous; mana�-the mind; jighra�-smelling;
sapatn�-jana�-rivals; tat-therefore; durat-from far away; ayam-this; a�jali�-folded
hands; kim-what is the use?; amuna-of these; drk-bha�g�-bhavena-crooked sidelong
glances; te-of You; vaidagdh�-in expertize; vividha-various; prabandha-activities;
rasike-expert at relishing transcendental mellows; vyartha�-useless; ayam-this;
atra-here; srama�-endeavor.

My mother-in-law is suspicious. My sisters-in-law watch My every move, licking


Me with their eyes. My husband sighs with jealousy. My enemies sniff about to
discover My intentions. I cannot go with You now. From a distance please accept My
respects with folded hands. What is the use of these crooked sidelong glances? O
friend expert at relishing transcendental mellows, these endeavors to convince Me
to go with You are all useless.
-author unknown

Text 206

sa�keta-k�ta-kokil�di-ninada� ka�sa-dvi�a� kurvato


dv�ronmocana-lola-�a�kha-valaya-kv��a� muhu� ���vata�
keya� keyam it� pragalbha-jarat�-v�kyena d�n�tmano
r�dh�-pr��ga�a-ko�a-koli-vi�api-kro�e gat� �arvar�

sa�keta-k�ta-meeting; kokila-cuckoos; ad�-beginning with; ninadam-the sound;


ka�sa-dvi�a�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of Ka�sa; kurvata�-doing; dvara-the door;
unmocana-opening; lola-moving; sa�kha-conc�-shells; valaya-bracelets; kvanam-sound;
muhu�-repeatedly; srnvata�-hearing; ka-who?; iyam-is it; ka-who?; iyam-is it; it�-
thus; pragalbha-arrogant; jarat�-of Jarati; vakyena-with the words; duna-depressed
and pained; atmana�-at heart; r�dh�-of �r�mat� R�dh�r���; pra�gana-of the
courtyard; kona-in a corner; kol�-vitap�-of a tree; krode-in the lap; gata-passed;
sarvar�-the night.

When Lord K���a arrived in R�dh�'s courtyard for Their rendezvous, His
tinkling ornaments sounded as the cooing of cuckoos and other birds. He suddenly
heard the door open, and He also heard the continual jingling sounds of conchshell
bracelets. When He heard the arrogant Jarat� call out, "Who's there? Who's there?"
He became pained at heart. He spent that entire night hiding in a tree in a corner
of the courtyard.
-�r� Hara

Text 207

�h�t�dya mahotsave ni�� g�ha� ��nya� vimucy�gat�


k��va� pre�ya-jana� katha� kula-vadh�r ek�kin� y�syati
vatsa tva� tad im�� nay�layam it� �rutv� ya�od�-giro
r�dh�-m�dhavayor jayant� madhura-smer�las� d���ya�

ahuta-called; adya-now; maha-to a great; utsave-festival; nis�-at night;


g�ham-house; sunyam-empty; vimucya-leaving; agata-came; k�iva�-excited; presya-
jana�-servants; katham-how is it?; kula-vadhu�-a chaste wife; ekakin�-alone;
yasyat�-will go; vatsa-O child; tvam-You; tat-then; imam-to this; naya-bring;
alayam-home; it�-thus; �rutva-hearing; yasoda-of Yasoda; gira�-the words; r�dh�-
m�dhavayo�-of �r� R�dha�-K���a; jayant�-all glories; madhura-sweet; smera-smiling;
alasa�-gentle; d���aya�-to the glances.

Mother Ya�oda� said to K���a: "My child, I invited R�dha� to a party at night.
Her husband wasn't at home. She left Her empty home and came here. When She came
the servants were very agitated and said: `How can a chaste wife travel about all
alone? How can She return to Her home unaccompanied? For this reason, my child, I
want You to escort Her home." When R�dha� and M�dhava heard Mother Ya�od�'s words,
They glanced at each other. All glories to Their sweetly smiling gentle glances.
-�r� Lak�ma�a Sena

Text 208

gacch�my acyuta dar�anena bhavata� ki� t�ptir utpadyate


kint� eva� vijana-sthayor hata-jana� sambh�vayaty anyath�
ity �mantra�a-bha�gi-s�cita-v�th�vasth�na-khed�lasam
��li�yan pulakotkar��cita-tanur gop�m hari� p�tu va�

gacch�mi-I am going; acyuta-O infallible K���a; dar�anena-by the sight;


bhavata�-of You; kim-how?; trpti�-happiness; utpadyate-is manifested; kintu-
furthermore; evam-in this way; vijana-sthayo�-in a solitary place; hata-ruined;
jana�-a person; sambhavayat�-becomes; anyath�-otherwise; it�-thus; amantra�a-of
advice; bha�g�-by crooked words; sucita-indicated; v�tha-useless; avasthana-
situation; asli�yan-embracing; pulaka-with hairs standing up; utkara-ancita-
manifested; tanu�-whose form; gop�m-the gop�; hari�-Lord K���a; patu-may protect;
va�-you all.

One day R�dh� accidentally met K���a in the forest. She said: "I am going. O
Acyuta, what happiness will I get by seeing You? If a girl stays in a secluded
place with a man her reputation is ruined." After saying these crooked hints, R�dh�
feigned unhappiness and remained motionless. Lord K���a suddenly embraced Her,
making the hairs of His body stand up with joy. I pray Lord K���a will protect you
all.
-author unknown

Sakh�-narma
Joking Words of a Gop�-friend

Text 209

sakh� pulakin� sa-kamp�


bahi�-sthalitas tvam �laya� pr�pt�
v�k�obh�t�s� n�na�
k���a-bhuja�gena kaly��i

sakhi-O friend; pulakin�-hairs standing up; sa-with; kampa-trembling; bahi�-


sthalita�-from outside; tvam-You; alayam-the house; pr�pta-entered; v�k�obhita-
agitated; as�-You have been; nunam-certainly; k���a-bhujangena-by the black snake
of K���a; kaly�ni-O beautiful girl.

O friend, You are trembling. The hairs on Your body are standing up. You have
run into the house from outside. O beautiful girl, You must certainly have been
attacked by the black snake of Lord K���a.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Punar anyedyur abhis�rika� tatra sakh�-vakyam�


A Gop�-friend Encourages �r�mat� R�dh�r��� to Meet Lord K���a

Text 210

akl�nta-dyutibhir vasanta-kusumair utta�sayan kuntal�n


anta� khelat� ka�jar�ta-nayane ku�jena ka�jek�a�a�
asm�n mandira-karmatas tava karau n�dy�pi vi�ramyata�
kim br�mo rasik�gra��r as� gha�� neya� vilamba-k�am�

aklanta-great; dyutibhi�-with splendor; vasanta-spring; kusumai�-with flowers;


utta�sayan-decorating; kuntalan-hair; anta�-within; khelat�-enjoys pastimes;
ka�jarita-nayane-O kha�jana-eyed girl; ku�je�u-in the forest groves; ka�jek�a�a�-
lotus-eyed K���a; asm�t-therefore; mandira-karmata�-from this housework; tava-Your;
karau-hands; na-not; adya-now; ap�-even; visramyata�-may be rested; kim-why?;
bruma�-we say; rasika-of all girls expert at enjoying transcendental pastimes;
agranti�-the leader; as�-You are; ghat�-time; na-not; iyam-this; vilamba-k�ama-to
be delayed.

O kha�jana-eyed girl, at this moment in the forest groves lotus-eyed K���a is


decorating the gop�s hair with splendid springtime flowers. For this reason we say:
You are the best of all girls expert at relishing transcendental pastimes. Why do
You not take Your hands from this housework and go to Him? There is not a moment to
lose.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Par�k�a�a-k�ri��m� sakh�m� prat� �r�-r�dh�-v�kyam�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Reply to a Questioning Gop�-friend

Text 211

lajjaivodgha�it� kim atra kuli�odbaddh� kap��a-sthitir


mary�daiva vila�ghit� path� puna� keya� kalind�tmaj�
�k�ipt� khala-d���ir eva sahas� vy�l�val� kid���
pr��� eva samarpita� sakh� cira� tasma� kim e�� tanu�

lajja-shame; eva-certainly; udghatita-manifested; kim-whether?; atra-here;


kulisa-by a thunderbolt; udbaddha-struck; kapata-sthiti�-the door; maryada-the
boundary; eva-certainly; vilanghita-crossed; path�-on the path; puna�-again; ka-
what?; iyam-this; kalinda-atmaja-the Yamuna� River, the daughter of Mount Kalinda;
ak�ipta-cast; khala-angry; d���i�-glance; eva-certainly; sahasa-violently; vyala-of
snakes; aval�-the multitude; kid���-like what?; pra�a�-life breath; eva-certainly;
samarpita�-offered; sakhi-O friend; ciram-eternally; tasma�-to Him; kim-whether?;
esa-this; tanu�-body.

(One day, as R�dha� was hurrying to meet K���a in the forest, a gop�-friend
met Her and asked why She was hurrying so quickly. R�dha� said:) "I'm embarrassed.
Has lightning struck My door? Does the Yamuna� flood My house? Do snakes stare at
Me with angry eyes? Are these the reasons for My haste, or is the reason that I
have eternally offered My body and life to Lord K���a?"
-author unknown

Text 212

dvi-trai� keli-saroruha� tri-caturair dhammilla-mall�-sraja�


ka��h�n mauktika-m�lik� tad anu ca tyaktv� padai� pa�ca�ai�
k���a-prema-vigh�rnit�ntaratay� dur�bhis�r�tur�
tanv-a�g� nirup�yam adhvani para� ��o��-bhara� nindati

dvi-with two; trai�-or three; keli-pastime; saroruham-lotus flower; tri� with


three; caturai�-or four; dhammilla-in braided hair; malli-of mall� flowers; srajam-
garland; ka��hat-from the neck; mauktika-of pearls; malika-a necklace; tat-that;
anu� following; ca-also; tyaktva-leaving; padai�-feet; pa�casai�-with five; k���a-
for Lord K���a; prema-by love; vighurnita-agitated; antarataya-in the heart; dura-
far away; abhisara-rendezvous; atura-weak; tanu-slender; a�gi-body; nirupayam-
without a remedy; adhv�ni-on the path; param-great; sroni-of Her hips; bharam-
weight; nindati-rebukes.

After two or three steps, She thinks Her toy lotus flower a burden and sets it
down by the road. After three of four steps She sets down the garland of jasmine
flowers decorating Her braids, and after five steps She removes the pearl-necklace
from Her neck. Then slender R�dh�, unhappy that the meeting is so far away, and Her
heart trembling with love for K���a, rebukes Her hips for being so heavy, but She
cannot abandon them, and so She is forced to carry them.
-author unknown

V�saka-sajj�
�r�mat� R�dh�r��� Makes Careful Arrangements for the Rendezvous With Lord K���a

Text 213

talpa� kalpaya d�t� pallava-kulair antar lat�-ma��ape


nirbandha� mama pu�pa-ma��ana-vidhau n�dy�pi kim mu�casi
pa�ya kr��ad-amandam andha-tamasa� v�nd��av�m tastare
tad gopendra-kum�ram atra milita-pr�ya� mana� �a�kate

talpam-the bed; kalpaya-make; dur�-O messenger; pallava-of flowers; kulai�-


with a multitude; anta�-within; lata-of vines; ma��ape-the cottage; nirbandham-
devotion; mama-My; pu�pa-with flowers; mandana-of decorating; vidhau-in the
activity; na-not; adya-now; ap�-even; kim-whether; mu�cas�-You abandon; pa�ya-look;
kr��at-playing; amandam-great; andha-blinding; tamasam-darkness; v�nd�-atavim-
V�nd�vana forest; tastare-extends; tat-then; gopa-of the gopas; indra-of the king;
kum�ran-the son; atra-here; milita-prayam-the meeting; mana�-heart; �a�kate-hopes.

O messenger friend, why don't you stop decorating Me with flowers, and
decorate the bed in this forest-cottage instead. Look! Playful, blinding darkness
now covers V�nd�vana forest. My heart hopes that here I will meet Lord K���a, the
prince of the gopas.
-�r� Raghun�tha d�sa

Utka��hit�
�r�mat� R�dh�r��� Longs to Meet K���a

Text 214

sakh� sa vijito v���-vadyai� kay�py apara-striy�


pa�itam abhavat t�bhy�� tatra k�ap�-lalita� dhruvam
katham itarath� �eph�l��u skhalat-kusum�s� api
prasarat� nabho-madhye 'p�ndau priye�a vilambyate

sakhi-O friend; sa�-He; vijita�-conquered; vina-of the vina; vadyai�-by the


music; kaya ap�-by a certain; apara-other; striya-woman; panitam-won in a gambling
match; abhavat-was; tabhyam-by them; tatra-there; k�apa-the night; lalitam-beauty;
dhruvam-certainly; katham-why?; itaratha-otherwise; sephalisu-sephali; skhalat-
falling; kusumasu-as the flowers; ap�-even; prasarat�-travels; nabha�-of the sky;
madhye-in the middle; ap�-even; indau-as the moon; priyena-by My lover; vilambyate-
there is delay.

My friend, perhaps some other women enticed K���a with lute-music? Perhaps she
won Him in a gambling match? The night is very beautiful. The �eph�l� flowers are
in bloom. The moon has already half traversed the sky. Some other woman have lured
My lover, K���a. Otherwise, why is He so late in coming here?
-author unknown

Text 215

aratir iyam upait� m�� na nidr�


ga�ayat� tasya gu�a� mano na do��n
viramat� r�jan� na sa�gam���
vrajat� tanus tanut�� na c�nur�ga�

arati�-unhappy; iyam-this; upait�-approaches; mam-Me; na-not; nidra-sleep;


ganayat�-counts; tasya-Him; gunan-virtues; mana�-heart; na-not; dosan-faults;
viramat�-ends; raj�ni-the night; na-not; sa�gama-of meeting; asa-the hope; vrajat�-
attains; tanu�-the body; tanutam-thinness; na-not; ca-also; anuraga�-love.

Unhappy sleep does not come near Me. My heart counts His virtues but not His
faults. The night ends, but My desire to meet Him does not end. My body has become
weak and thin, but My love for Him has not become weak at all.
-�r� Ka�ka

Vipralabdh�
�r�mat� R�dh�r��� is Separated From Lord K���a

Text 216

utti��ha dut� y�mo


y�mo y�tas tath�p� n�y�ta�
y�ta� param api j�vej
j�vita-n�tho bhavet tasy��

uttistha-rise; dut�-O messenger-friend; yama�-let us go; yama�-the hour;


yata�-is past; tath� ap�-still; na-not; ayata�-has come; ya-who; ata�-then; param-
after; ayata�-has come; ya-who; ata�-then; param-after; ap�-even; j�vet-lives;
j�vita-of life; n�tha�-the Lord; bhavet-must be; tasy��-of her.
Messenger friend, get up! Let us go. The hour is passed, and still He has not
come. A girl who can remain alive in this situation certainly has the god of life
in her control.
-�r� Ka�ka

Kha��it�
�r�mat� R�dh�r��� is Cheated by Lord K���a

Text 217

l�k��-lak�ma lal��a-pa��am abhita� key�ra-mudr� gale


vaktre kajjala-k�lim� nayanayos t�mb�la-r�go ghana�
d���v� kopa-vidh�yi-ma��anam ida� pr�ta� cira� preyaso
l�l�-t�marasodare m�ga-d��a� �v�sa� sam�pti� gata�

lak�a-of red lac; lak�ma-the mark; lalata-of the forehead; pattam-the surface;
abhita�-on; keyura-of bracelets and armlets; mudra-the mark; gale-on the neck;
vaktre-on the mouth; kajjala-of mascara; kalima-the blackness; nayanayo�-on the
eyes; tambula-of betel-nuts; raga�-the redness; ghana�-intense; d���va-seeing;
kopa-anger; vidhay�-doing; mandanam-the ornament; idam-this; prata�-at daybreak;
ciram-for the ornament; idam-this; prata�-at daybreak; ciram-for a longtime;
preyasa�-of Her lover; l�l�-pastimes; tamarasa-a red lotus flower; udare-within;
mrga-d��a�-of the doe-eyed gop�; svasa�-the sighs; samaptim-an end; gata�-attained.

At daybreak seeing marks of red lac on K���a's forehead, the impression of


armlets on His neck, black mascara on His mouth, and the red betel stains around
His eyes, doe-eyed R�dha� suddenly stopped sighing. Decorated with intense anger,
She was like a red lotus flower.
-�r� Autkala

Tasy� v�kyam
Her Words

Text 218

k�ta� mithy�-jalpair virama vidita� k�muka cir�t


priy�� t�m evoccair abhisara yad�yair nakha-padai�
vil�sai� ca pr�pta� tava h�d� pada� r�ga-bahulair
may� kim te k�tya� dhruvam aku�il�c�ra-paray�

k�tam-what is the use?; mithya-jalpai�-of these lies; virama-stop; viditam-


known; kamuka-O debauchee; cirat-for a long time; priyam-to the beloved; tam-her;
eva-certainly; uccai�-greatly; abhisara-go; yadiyai�-of whom; nakha-padai�-by the
scratches; vilasai�-glistening; ca-also; pr�ptam-attained; tava-Your; h�d�-on the
chest; padam-a place; raga-with redness; bahulai�-abundant; maya-with Me; kim-
what?; te-for You; k�tyam-is useful; dhruvam-certainly; akutila-not crooked; acara-
to activities; paraya-devoted.

What is the use of these lies? Stop! Stay, O debauchee, with the girl who
placed these glistening red scratch marks on Your chest. What do You want with an
honest girl like Me?
-�r� Rudra

Text 219

s�rdha� manoratha-�atais tava dh�rta k�nt�


saiva sthit� manas� k�trima-bh�va-ramy�
asm�kam ast� na h� ka�cid ih�vak��as
tasm�t k�ta� cara�a-p�ta-vi�amban�bhi�

sardham-with; manoratha-of desires; satai�-hundreds; tava-Your; dhurta-O


rascal; k�nta-mistress; sa-she; eva-certainly; sthita-stays; manas�-in the heart;
k�trima-pretended; bhava-with love; ramya-beautiful; asm�kam-of Us; ast�-is; na-
not; h�-indeed; kascit-this; iha-here; avakasa�-opportunity; tasm�t-therefore;
k�tam-what is the use?; cara�a-at My feet; pata-of falling; vidambanabhi�-of
pretenses.

Filled with hundreds of lusty desires, Your beautiful new mistress pretends
she loves You in her heart. I am not like her. What is the use of pretending to
fall at My feet?
-�r� Rudra

Text 220

anala�k�to 'p� m�dhava


haras� mano me sad� prasabham
kim punar ala�k�tas tva�
samprat� nakha-rak�atais tasy��

anala�k�ta�-not devorated; apu-even; m�dhava-O K���a; haras�-You enchant;


mana�-mind; me-My; sada-always; prasabham-strongly; kim puna�-how much more;
ala�k�ta�-decorated; tvam-You; samprat�-now; nakha-rak�atais-with the scratches;
tasy��-of her.

O M�dhava, even when You do not wear ornaments You enchant My heart. How much
more enchanting You are decorated with the nice scratch-marks of this other girl.
-�r� Vi�van�tha

Kha��an�pta-nirved�y�s tasy� v�kya�


The Statement of �r�mat� R�dh�r��� Is Depressed Because She Was Cheated by Lord
K���a, Who Failed to Appear at the Rendezvous

Text 221

vyat�t�� pr�rambha� pra�aya-bahu-m�no vigalito


dur��� y�t� me pari�atim iya� pr��itum api
yathe��a� ce��ant�� virahi-vadha-vikhy�ta-ya�aso
vibh�v� mayy ete pika-madhu-sudh��su-prabh�taya�

vyatita�-passed; prarambha�-endeavors; pra�aya-of love; bahu-mana�-respect;


vigalita�-gone; durasa-hope against hope; yata-attained; me-of Me; parinatim-
transformation; iyam-this; pranitum-to live; ap�-even; yath�-as; istam-desired;
cestantam-activities; virah�-of lovers separated from their beloved; vadha-killing;
vikhyaata-yasasa�-celebrated; vibhava�-arousing ecstatic love; may�-in Me; ete-
then; pika-cuckoos; madhu-spring season; sudha�su-moon; prabh�taya�-beginning with.

Now all My endeavors have come to and end. Now My heart is crushed. Now My
last hopes have left and I am on the verge of giving up this life. Now the cuckoos,
springtime, moon, and all the others famous for killing lovers separated from their
beloved, torment My heart.
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Text 222

m� mu�ca pa�ca�ara pa�ca-�ar�� �ar�re


m� si�ca s�ndra-makaranda-rasena v�yo
a�g�ni tat-pra�aya-bha�ga-vigarhit�ni
n�lambitu� k�a�am api k�amate 'dye j�va�

ma-don't; mu�ca-release; pa�casara-O cupid; pa�ca-five; sarim-arrows; sarire-


on the body; ma-don't; sinca-sprinkled; sandra-intense; makaranda-of honey; rasena-
with nectar; vayo-O breeze; a�g�ni-limbs; tat-that; pra�aya-of love; bha�ga-
breaking; vigarhit�ni-polluted; na-not; alambitum-to rest; k�a�am-for a moment;
ap�-even; k�amate-is able; adya-now; j�va�-life.

Dear Mr. Cupid, please do not excite Me by throwing your arrows at My body.
Dear Mr. Air, please do not arouse Me with the fragance of flowers, I am now bereft
of K���a's loving attitude, and so, under the circumstances, what is the use of My
sustaining this useless body? There is no need for such a body by any living
entity.*
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Puan� s�yam �y�t� m�dhave sakh�-�ik��


When Lord K���a Returned in the Evening, a Gop�-friend
Spoke the Following Instructions

Text 223

ka�cana va�cana-cature
prapa�caya tva� mur�ntake m�nam
bahu-vallabhe h� puru�e
d�k�i�ya� du�kham udvahati

ka�cana-something; va�cana-at cheating; cature-expert; pr�pa�caya-manifest;


tvam-You; murantake-to K���a; manam-anger; bahu-vallabhe-who has many girl-friends;
h�-indeed; puruse-to a man; dak�i�yam-gentlelness; duhkham-suffering; udvahat�-
brings.

Now You should be angry with this expert cheater K���a. Being gentle to a
debauchee will bring only suffering.
- �r� R�pa Gosv�m�

M�nin�
The Angry Gop�

Text 224

bhavatu vidita� cchadm�l�pair ala� priya gamyat��


tanur api na te do�o 'sm�ka� vidhis tu par��mukha�
tava yad� tath�bh�ta� prema pr�pannam im�� da���
prak�ti-capale ka na p��� gate hata-j�vite

bhavatu-let it be; viditam-known; chadma-deceptive; alapai�-with talking;


alam-enough!; priye-O beloved; gamyatam-should be gone; tanu�-slight; ap�-even; na-
not; te-of You; dosa�-fault; asm�kam-to us; vidhi�-fate; tu-indeed; paramukha�-is
averse; tava-of You; yad�-if; tath�-bh�tam-is that way; prema-love; pr�pannam-
attained; imam-this; dasam-condition; prak�t�-by nature; capale-fickle; ka-what?;
na-not; pida-suffering; gate-gone; hata-wretched; j�vite-life.

Say it! What is the use of these tricky lies? Beloved, go now. It is not Your
fault at all. Destiny is against us. If Your love me, do this. Alas! What suffering
have I not seen in this wretched, fickle life?
-�r� Amaru

Text 225
kas tva� t�su yad�cchay� kitava yas ti��hant� gop��gan��
prem��a� na vidant� yas tava hare ki� t�su te kaitavam
e�� hanta hat��ay� yad abhava� tvayy ekat�n� para�
ten�sy�� pra�ayo 'dhun� khalu mama pr��ai� sama� y�syati

ka�-what?; tvam-are You; tasu-to them; yadrcchaya-accidentally; kitava-O


cheater; ya�-who; tisthant�-stand; gopa-a�gana�-gop�s; premanam-love; na-do not;
vidant�-find; ya�-who; tava-for You; hare-O K���a; kim-how?; tasu-to them; te-of
You; kaitavam-cheating; esa-she; hanta-alas!; hata-asaya-without hope; yat-because;
abhavam-I have been; tvay�-for You; ekatana-intent; param-greatly; tena-by this;
asy��-of her; pra�aya�-love; adhuna-now; khalu-indeed; mama-my; pra�ai�-with the
life-breath; samam-equally; yasyat�-will attain.

O cheater, to the gop�s who have accidentally come here, what are You? O Lord
Hari, these girls don't love You. How can You cheat them? I alone have fallen
hopelessly in love with You. You are dear to me as life.
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Ni�kramat� k���e sakh�-v�kya�


A Gop�-friend's Words as K���a's Departs

Text 226

s�ci-kandharam amu� kim �k�ase


y�tu y�tu sakh� p�tan�rdana�
v�ma-r�ti-catur�� h� p�mar��
sevat�� parama-devat�m iva

sac�-with tilted; kandharam-neck; amum-on Him; kim-why?; �k�ase-do you gaze;


yatu-let go; yatu-let go; sakhi-O friend; putana-ardana�-K���a, the killer of
Putana; vama-rit�-at crookedness; caturam-expert; h�-indeed; pamarim-wretched
person; sevatam-may serve; parama-devatam-the Supreme Personality of Godhead; iva-
like.

Why do you tilt your neck and stare at Him? Friend, let K���a go. Let Him go.
Only a fool will treat this tricky debauchee like the Supreme Personality of
Godhead.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

�r� K���a-d�t�-v�kya�
K���a's Message Sent Through a Gop�-messenger

Text 227

prem�vag�hana-k�te
m�na� m� kuru cir�ya karambhoru
n�kar�� ki� nu mugdhe
j�ta� p�y��a-manthane garalam

prema-of love; avagahana-plu�ging into the ocean; k�te-for the purpose; manam-
anger; ma-do not; kuru-do; ciraya-for a long time; karabhoru-O beautiful girl; na-
not; �kar��-been heard; kim-whether; nu-indeed; mugdhe-O charming girl; jatam-
produced; piyusa-of nectar; mathane-in the churning; garalam-poison.

O beutiful one, for plunging You into this ocean of love don't be eternally
angry with Me. O charming one, have You not heard how poison is produced by
churning nectar?
-�r� Ra�ga
Text 228

vidhumukh� vimukh�-bh�va�
bh�vin� mad-bh��a�e m� g��
mudhe nigama-nig��ha�
katipaya-kaly��ato milati

vidhu-mukh�-O moon-faced girl; vimukh�-bhavam-aversion; bhavin�-O affectionate


one; mat-of Me; bhasane-in this words; ma-do not; ga�-attain; mudhe-O charming
girl; nigama-to the Vedas; nigudha�-hidden; katipaya-how many?; kalyanata�-from
pious activities; milat�-meets.

O moon-faced girl, O affectionate one, don't turn from My words. O charming


one, how many pious activities must one perform in order to hear My words, which
are carefully kept secret from even the Personified Vedas?
-�r� Ra�ga

D�t�� prat� �r�-r�dh�-v�kya�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Statement to the Gop�-messenger

Text 229

alam alam agh�tasya tasya n�mn�


punar api saiva kath� gata� sa k�la�
kathaya kathaya v� tath�p� d�ti
prativacana� dvi�ato 'p� m�nan�yam

alam-enough!; alam-enough!; agh�tasya-merciless; tasya-of tis person; namna-


with the name; punah ap�-again; sa-this; eva-certainly; katha-statement; gata�-
gone; sa�-the; kala�-time; kathaya-tell; kathaya-tell; va-or; tath� ap�-still;
dut�-O messenger; prativacanam-the reply; dvi�ata�-from the enemy; ap�-also;
mananiyam-should be carefully heard.

Enough! Stop saying the name of this merciless person! Again the time is
passed talking of Him! O gop�-messenger, tell Me again what He said! Tell Me!
Careful attention should be given to the words of the enemy.
-�r� A�gada

Kalah�ntarit�� t�� prat� dak�i�a-sakh�-v�kya�


A Gentle-hearted Friend's Statement to a Gop� Who has Quarreled With Lord K���a

Text 230

an�locya prem�a� pari�atim an�d�tya suh�das


tvay�k���e m�na� kim it� sarale preyas� k�ta�
sam�k���� hy ete viraha-dahanodbh�sura-�ikh��
sva-hasten��g�r�s tad alam adhun�ra�ya-ruditai�

analocya-not seeing; premna�-of love; parinatim-the symptoms; anad���ya-not


respecting; suh�da�-friends; tvay�-by You; akande-suddenly; mana�-anger; kim-why?;
it�-thus; sarale-O pious girl; preyas�-to Your lover; k�ta�-is done; samakrsta�-
pulled; h�-indeed; ete-they; viraha-of separation; dahana-of the fire; udbhasura-
glistening; sikha�-flames; sva-own; hastena-with the hand; agara�-charcoal; tat-
therefore; alam-what is the use; adhuna-now; aranya-in the wilderness; ruditai�-
with crying.

O pious girl, first You refuse to see His love, then you insult your friends,
and now You are suddenly angry with Your lover. Still, I can see that you are
burning in the flames of separation from K���a, and your anger at Him is like
crying in the wilderness.
-�r� Amaru

Karka�a-sakh�-v�kya�
Harsh Words From a Gop�-friend

Text 231

m�na-bandham abhita� �lathayant�


gaurava� na khalu h�raya gauri
�rjava� na bhajate danuj�rir
va�cake saralat� na h� s�dhv�

mana-of anger; bandha�-the knot; abhita�-completely; alathayant�-


loosening;gauravam-tightness; na-not; khalu-indeed; haraya-You should remove;
gaur�-O fair-complexioned girl; arjavam-honesty; na-does not; bhajate-appreciate;
danuja-ari�-Lord K���a, the enemy of the demons; va�cake-for a cheater; saralata-
honesty; na-not; h�-indeed; sadhv�-is considered good.

O fair-complexioned gop�, please do not loosen and untie the knot of Your
anger. K���a does not like gentle saintliness. A cheater does not think honesty is
a virtue.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

T�� prat� �r�-r�dh�-v�kya�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Reply

Text 232

bhr�-bha�go gu�ita� cira� nayanayor abhyastam �m�lana�


roddhum �ik�itam �dare�a hasita� maune 'bhiyoga� k�ta�
dhairyam� kartum ap� sthir�-k�tam idam� ceta� katha�cin may�
baddho m�na-parigrahe parikara� siddhis tu daive sthite

bhr�-of the eyebrows; bha�ga�-knitting; gunita�-practiced; ciram-for a lont


time; nayanayo�-of the eyes; abhyastam-practiced; smilanam-closing; roddhum-to
stop; ��k�itam-studied; adare�a-carefully; hasitam-smiling; maune-in silence;
abhiyoga�-practice; k�ta�-done; dhairyam-calm composure; kartum-to do; ap�-also;
sthir�-k�tam-somehow; maya-by Me; baddha�-bound; mana-of pride; praigrahe-in the
taking; parikara�-preparation; siddhi�-succes; tu-but; daiva-in destiny; sthita-
stands.

I repeatedly practiced knitting My eyebrows. I studied how to stare without


blinking. Again and again I practiced remaining silent with a sarcastic smile. I
studied how to keep My heart steady and not lose My composure. I can practice how
to be angry with K���a, but My final success still remains in the hands of fate.
-�r� Amaru

Text 233

j�n�mi maunam alas��gi vaco-vibha�g�r


bha�g�-�ata� nayanayor api c�tur�� ca
�bh�ra-nandana-mukh�mbuja-sa�ga-�a�s�
va���-ravo yad� na m�m ava��-karoti

jan�mi-I understand; alasa�g�-O Alasa�gi; maunam-silence; vaca�-of words;


vibha�gai�-with crookedness; bha�g�-of crooked movements; satam-hundreds;
nayanayo�-of the eyes; ap�-also; caturim-expertness; ca-also; abhira-of a cowherd;
nandana-of the son; mukha-of the mouth; ambuja-the lotus flower; sa�ga-sa�s�-from;
va���-of the flute; rava�-the sound; yad�-if; na-not; mam-Me; avas�-karot�-
overwhelms.

O Alans��g�, I know how to display an angry silence. I know how to speak


crooked sarcastic words, and I know how to angrily knit My eyebrows in hundreds of
ways. If I do not become overwhelmed by the sound of the flute on Lord K���a's
lotus mouth, I know how to display all these angry features.
-author unknown

Text 234

satya� ���om� sakh� nitya-nava-priyo 'asau


gopas tath�p� h�daya� madano dunoti
yukty� katha�cana sama� gamite 'p� tasmin
m�� tasya k�la-mural� kaval�-karoti

satyam-truth; srnom�-I hear; sakhi-O friend; nitya-always; nava-new; priya�-


lovers; asau-He; gopa�-the cowherd; tath� ap�-still; h�daya-My heart; madana�-
cupid; dunot�-causes to tremble; yuktya-with logical arguments; katha�cana-somehow;
samam-pacified; gamite-chased away; ap�-even; tasmin-when he is; mam-Me; tasya-His;
kala-mural�-the sweet sounds of the flute; kaval�-karot�-devours.

Yes, My friend, I have heard that K���a is a debauchee always searching for
new lovers. Still, My heart trembles with love for Him. I pacified My heart with
many logical arguments and was able to chase the love from it, but then, in the
next moment I found Myself devoured by the sweet sound of K���a's flute.
-�r�m�n Prabhup�da

Text 235

na j�ne sammukh�y�te
priy��i vadat� priye
pray�nt� mama g�tr��i
�rotrat�� kim u netrat�m

na-not; jane-I know; sammukhayate-comes before me; priy�ni-sweet words;


vadat�-speaking; priye-when my lover K���a; prayant�-attain; mama-my; gatr�ni-
senses and limbs; srotatam-the status of being ears; kim u-whether?; netratam-of
the status of being eyes.

When My lover, K���a, stands before Me and speaks sweet words, do all My
senses become ears, or do they become eyes? I do not know.
-author unknown

Text 236

mur�ri� pa�yanty�� sakh� sakalam a�ga� na nayana�


k�ta� yac chrnvanty� hari-gu�a-ga�a� �rotra-nicitam
sam�n ten�l�pa� sapad� racayanty� mukhamaya�
vidh�tur naiv�ya� gha�ana-parip���-madhurim�

mura-arim-Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon; pa�yantya�-seeing; sakhi-O


friend; sakalam-entire; a�gam-body; na-not; nayanam-eye; k�tam-done; yat-which;
srnvantya�-hearing; har�-of Lord K���a; guna-of the transcendental qualities;
ganam-the multitude; srotra-alapam-conversation; sapad�-at once; racayantya-doing;
mukha mayan-full of mouths; vidhatu�-of the creator Brahma; na-not; eva-certainly;
ayam-this; ghatana-paripat�-madhurima-great sweetness.

When I gaze at K���a, the creator Brahm� does not transform all My senses into
eyes. When I hear about K���a's transcendental qualities, Brahm� does not transform
all My senses into ears. When I speak with K���a, Brahm� does not transform all My
limbs into mouths. Brahm� does not know anything about drinking the nectar of
K���a.
-�r� �ara�a

Sakhy�� s�bhyas�ya-v�kya�
Jealous Words From a Gop�-friend

Text 237

tvam as� vi�uddh� sarale


mural�-vaktras tridh� vakra�
bha�guray� khalu sulabha�
tad-ura� sakh� vaijayantyeva

tvam-You; as�-are; visuddha-pure; sarale-O honest girl; mural�-vaktra�-the


flute-player K���a; tridha-in three places; vakra�-is bent; bhanguraya-bending;
khalu-indeed; su-labham-easily attained; tat-His; ura�-chest; sakhi-O friend;
vaijayantya-by the vaiyant� garland; iva-as if.

O honest, upright friend, You are very pure in heart, and this flutist K���a
is very crooked. Because He is so crooked, with His form bending in three places,
the crooked vaijayant� garland finds it very easy to rest on His chest.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

K�ubhita-r�dhikokti�
Words of Agitated R�dh�r���

Text 238

ni��v�s� vadana� dahant� h�daya� nirm�lam unmathyate


nidr� nait� na d��yate priya-mukha� r�trindiva� rudyate
a�ga� �o�am upait� p�da-patita� prey��s tathopek�ita�
sakhya� ki� gu�am �kalayya dayite m�na� vaya� k�rit��

nihsvasa�-sighs; vadanam-mouth; dahant�-burn; h�dayam-the heart; nirmulam-


uprooted; unmathyate-is agitated; nidra-sleep; na-does not; et�-come; na-not;
d��yate-is seen; priya-of My lover; mukham-the face; ratrim-night; divam-and day;
rudyate-crying; a�gam-body; sosam-dried up; upat�-attains; pada-of the feet;
patita�-falling; preyan-lover; tath�-in that way; upek�ita�-awaited; sakhya�-O
gop�-friend; kim-what?; gunam-the qualities; akalaya-considering; dayite-to the
lover K���a; manam-anger; vayam-we; karita�-may do.

Now that I can no longer see the face of My lover, K���a, sighs burn My mouth,
My heart is torn from His roots, sleep refuses to come to Me, I cry day and night,
My limbs have dried up, and I simply wait for the footsteps of My beloved K���a. O
friends, what quality of K���a will I remember so I may become angry with Him?
-�r� Amaru

M�naja-virahe�a dhy�yant�� t�� prat� kasy��cid v�kya�


A Gop�'s Words to �r�ma�� R�dh�r���, Who Was Meditating on Lord K���a in Separation

Text 239

�h�re virati� samasta-vi�aya-gr�me niv�tti� par�


n�s�gre nayana� yad etad apara� yac caikat�na� mana�
mauna� cedam ida� ca ��nyam akhila� yad vi�vam �bh�t� te
tad br�y�� sakh� yogin� kim as� bho� ki� v� viyoginy asi
ahare-in eating; virati�-cessation; samasta-all; visaya-of sense objects;
grame-in the host; niv�tti�-renunciation; pura-previously; nasa-agre-nostrils;
nayanam-eyes; yat-which; etat-this; aparam-other; yat-which; ca-also; ekatanam-with
single-pointed concentration; mana�-the mind; maunam-silence; ca-also; idam-this;
idam-this; ca-also; sunyam-emptiness; akhilam-all; yat-which; visvam-the universe;
abhat�-is manifested; te-they; tat-that; bruya�-say; sakhi-O friend; yogin�-a
mystic yogin�; kim-whether?; as�-You are; bho�-Oh; kim-whether?; va-or; viyogin�-
separated; as�-You are.

You refuse to eat. You have stopped all activities of the senses. Your eyes
are fixed on the tip of Your nose, and Your mind is fixed on a single thought. You
are now silent, and You see the entire world as a void. Friend, please tell me,
have You become a mystic yogin�, or are You rapt in meditation on K���a?
-author unknown

T�� prat� �r�-r�dh�-v�khya�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Reply

Text 240

sa�gama-viraha-vikalpe
varam iha viraho na sa�gam�n tasya
eka� sa eva sa�ge
tri-bhuvanam api tan-maya� virahe

sa�gama-meeting; viraha-and separation; vikalpe-in the creation; varam-better;


iha-here; viraha�-separation; na-not; sa�gama�-meeting; tasya-of Him; eka�-one;
sa�-He; eva-certainly; sa�ge-in meeting; tr�-bhuvanam-the three worlds; ap�-even;
tat-of Him; mayam-consisting; viraha-in separation.

Separation from K���a is better than meeting Him. When I meet Him there is
only one K���a, but when I am separated from Him the three worlds become filled
with K���as.
-author unknown

K���a-viraha�
K���a's Feelings of Separation

Text 241

sa�j�te viraha kay�pi h�daye sand�nine cintay�


k�lind�-ta�a-vetas�-vana-ghana-cch�y�-ni�a���tmana�
p�y�su� kalaka��ha-k�jita-kal� gopasya ka�sa-dvi�o
jihv�-varjita-t�lu-m�rcchita-marud-visph�rit� g�taya�

sa�jate-manifested; virahe-in separation; kaya ap�-from a certain gop�;


h�daye-in His heart; sandanine-agitated; cintaya-with anxiety; k�lind�-of the
Yamuna� River; tata-on the shore; vetas�-of vetas� trees; vana-in the grove; ghana-
dense; chaya-in the shade; nisanna-sitting; atmana�-Himself; payasu�-may protect;
kalaka��ha-of the cuckoos; kujita-warbling; kala�-soft; gopa�ya-of the cowherd boy;
ka�sa-of Ka�sa; dvi�a�-the enemy; jihva-His tongue; varjita-without; talu-palate;
murcchita-dumb; marut-a breeze; vispharita�-expanded; gitaya�-melodies.

His heart agitated in separation from a certain gop�, Lord K���a sat down in
the dark shade of the vetas� trees by the Yamun�'s shore. Without using His tongue
or palate, He played flute melodies as sweet as the warbling of the cuckoos. May
those melodies protect you all.
-author unknown
�r� K����nunaya-r�dh�-pras�danam
R�dh� and K���a Become Pleased With Each Other

Text 242

�ira�-ch�y�� k���a� svayam ak�ta r�dh�-cara�ayor


bhuja-vall�-cch�y�m iyam api tad�ya-pratik�tau
it� kr���-kope nibh�tam ubhayor apy anunaya-
pras�dau j�y�s t�m api guru-samak�a� sthitavato�

sira�-of His head; chayam-the shadow; k���a�-K���a; svayam-personally; ak�ta-


placed; r�dh�-of R�dh�; cara�ayo�-at the feet; bhuja-of Her arms; vall�-of the
vine; chayam-the shadow; iyam-this; ap�-also; tadiya-to Him; pratik�tau-in
response; it�-thus; kr��a-playful; kope-in anger; nibh�tam-secretly; ubhayo�-of
Them both; ap�-also; anunaya-prasadau-pleased; jiya�-all glories; tam-this; ap�-
even; guru-of Their elder; samak�am-before the eyes; sthitavato�-standing.

In the presence of His elders K���a moved His head so it's shadow appeared at
R�dh�'s feet. R�dh� responded by moving the vines of Her arms so their shadows
embraced K���a. In this way R�dh� and K���a ended Their playful lover's quarrel and
became again pleased with each other as Their unsuspecting elders looked on. All
glories to R�dh� and K���a's again becoming pleased.
-�r� Hara

�r� K���a� prat� �r�-r�dh�-sakh�-v�kyam


Words of R�dh�'s Gop�-friend to Lord K���a

Text 243

s� sarvathaiva rakt�
r�ga� gu�jeva na tu mukhe vahati
vacana-pa�os tava r�ga�
kevalam �sye �ukasyeva

sa-She; sarvatha-in all respects; eva-certainly; rakta-is red with love;


ragam-red; gu�ja-a gu�ja berry; iva-like; na-not; tu-indeed; mukhe-only on the
mouth; vahat�-carries; vacana-pato�-clever-talking; tava-of You; raga�-the redness
of love; kevalam-is only; asye-on the mouth; sukasya-of a parrot; iva-like.

R�dh� is completely red with love for You. Her love is not like the redness of
a gu�j� berry, which is red not only on the surface, but through and through. O
clever-talking K���a, the redness of Your love for Her is not in Your heart but
only in Your mouth, just as a parrot's mouth is red, but the rest of him is some
other color.
-�r� Govardhan�c�rya
Text 244

subhaga bhavat� h�dye tasy� jvalat-smara-p�vake 'py


abhinivi�at� prem�dhikya� cir�t praka��-k�tam
tava tu h�daye ��te 'py eva� sadaiva mukh�ptaye
mama sahacar� s� ni�sneh� man�g api na sthit�

subhaga-O handsome K���a; bhavata-by You; h�daye-friendly; tasy��-of Her;


jvalat-burning; smara-passion; pavake-in the fire; ap�-even; abhinivisata-entered;
prema-of love; adhikyam-greatness; cirat-for a long time; prakat�-k�tam-is
manifested; tava-of You; tu-but; h�daya-in the heart; site-cool; ap�-even; evam-in
this way; sada-always; eva-certainly; sukha-of happiness; aptaye-for the
attainment; mama-my; sahacar�-friend; sa-She; nihsneha-unloved; manak-slightly;
ap�-even; na-not; sthita-stays.

O handsome K���a, R�dh�'s heart burns with love for You. You eternally stay in
Her heart. On the other hand, Your heart is always very cool and cheerful. My
unloved friend R�dh� is never allowed to enter there even for a moment.
-�r� Rudra

Din�ntara-v�rt�
Narration of Another Day's Pastimes

Text 245

�gatya pra�ip�ta-s�ntvita-sakh� datt�ntare s�gasi


svaira� kurvat� talpa-p�r�va-nibh�te dh�rte '�ga-samv�hanam
j��tv� spar�a-va��t tay� kila sakh�-bhr�nty eva vak�a� �anai�
khinn�s�ty abhidh�ya m�lita-d��� s�nandam �ropitam

agatya-arriving; pranipata-by obeisances; santvita-pacified; sakhi-the gop�-


friend; datta-performed; antare-within; sa-agas�-with an offense; svairam-
independently; kurvat�-does; talpa-of the bed; parsva-on the side; nibh�ta-
secluded; dhurte-when the rascal K���a; a�ga-of the body; samvahanam-massage;
j��tva-understanding; sparsa-vasat-from the touch; taya-by Her; kila-indeed; sakhi-
of being a gop�-friend; bhrantya-by the illusion; iva-as if; vak�a�-chest; sanai�-
gradually; khinna-unhappy; as�-You are; it�-thus; abhidhaya-saying; miita-met;
d��a-eyes; sa-with; �nandam-bliss; aropitam-risen.

One time Lord K���a offended R�dh�, and They quarreled. Afterwards, K���a
disguised Himself as a gop�, fell down at the feet of one of R�dh�'s gop�-friends,
pacified Her, and by her arrangement was able to enter R�dh�'s house. When R�dh�
was alone on Her bed, disguised K���a approached Her bedside and began to massage
Her body. The touch of His hand reminded Her of K���a. Still thinking K���a to be a
gop�, She said to Him: "Ah! You must be very unhappy. K���a must have forsaken You
as He has Me." She looked into K���a's eyes. After that She slowly and very happily
fell into His arms.
-author unknown

Text 246

vastutas tu guru-bh�tay� tay�


vya�jite kapa�a-m�na-ku�male
pe�ala-priya-sakh�-d��� harir
bodhitas ta�a-lat�-g�ha� yayau

vastuta�-genuinesly; tu-indeed; guru-of Her superiors; bhitaya-afraid; taya-by


Her; vya�jite-manifested; mana-of anger; kudmale-the bud; pesala-clever; priya-
dear; sakhi-of the gop�-friend; d��a-by the glance; hari�-K���a; bodhita�-
undertanding; tata-the shore of the Yamun�; lata-of vines; g�ham-to the cottage;
yayau-went.

R�dh� became genuinely afraid of the possible intrusion of Her elders, and for
this reason the bud of Her feigned anger began to blossom. Her dear and intelligent
gop�-friend cast a meaningful glance at K���a to apprize Him of the situation. He
undertood. He took His leave and went to the cottage of vines by the Yamun�'s
shore, only to meet R�dh� again in that more secluded place.
-author unknown

Text 247

m�dhavo madhura-m�dhav�-lat�-
ma��ape patur a�an madhuvrate
sa�jagau �rava�a-c�ru gopik�-
m�na-m�na-ba�i�ena ve�un�

m�dhava�-K���a; madhura-charming; m�dhav�-of m�dhavi; lata-vines; ma��ape-in


the grove; patu�-intelligent; atan-going; madhuvrate-with bumble-bees; sa�jajagau-
played; sravana-caru-music very pleasing to the ears; gop�ka-of the gop�s; mana-of
the minds; mina-for the fish; badisena-the fishook; ve�una-with the flute.

Walking in the m�dhav� grove where there were many bumble-bees, intelligent
M�dhava played very beautiful music on His flute, which was like a fishhook to
catch the fish of the gop�s hearts.
-author unknown

Pu�pa-cchalena �r�-k���am anve�ayant�m� �r�-r�dh�m� prat� kasy��cid ukti�


Words of a Certain Gop� to �r�mat� R�dh�r���, Who Was Searching for Lord K���a on
the Pretext of Picking Flowers

Text 248

panth�� k�emamayo 'stu te parihara praty�ha-sambh�van�m


etan m�tram adh�r� sundar� may� netra-pra��l�-pathe
n�re n�la-sarojam ujjvala-gu�a� t�re tam�l��kura�
ku�je ko 'p� kalinda-�aila-duhitu� pu�s-kokila� khelati

pantha�-path; k�emamaya�-auspicious; astu-may be; te-of You; parihara-give up;


pratuha-of obstacles; sambhavanam-the consideration; etat-matram-here; adhar�-bed;
sundar�-O beautiful girl; maya-by me; netra-of the eyes; pra�al�-of the stream;
pathe-on the path; nire-in the water; n�la-a blue; sarojam-lotus flower; ujjvala-
splendid; gunam-with qualities; tire-on the shore; tamala-a�kura�-a tamala tree;
ku�je-in the grove; kah ap�-a certain; kalinda-saila-duhitu�-of the Yamuna� River,
the daughter of Mount Kalinda; pum-male; kokila�-cuckoo; khelat�-plays.

This is a good path. Don't think there are obstacles here. I have seen this
path with my own eyes. It leads to the Yamun�'s waters where there are splendid
blue lotus flowers. On the shore is a tam�la tree, and in the grove nearby the male
cuckoo of the Supreme Personality of Godhead enjoys pastimes.
-�r� Sarvavidy�vinoda

Tatra yamun�-t�re gatay� �r�-r�dhay� saha hare� �a�kath�


Conversation Between R�dh� and K���a on the Yamun�'s Shore

Text 249

k� tva� m�dhava-d�tik� vadasi ki� m�na� jah�h� priye


dh�rta� so 'nyaman� man�g api sakh� tvayy �dara� nojjhati
ity anyonya-kath�-rasai� pramudita� r�dh�� sakh�-ve�av�n
n�tv� ku�ja-g�ha� prak��ita-tanu� smero hari� p�tu va�

ka-who?; tvam-are You; m�dhava-of K���a; dutika-I am the gop�-messenger;


vadas�-You say; kim-what?; manam-anger; jahih�-please give up; priye-O beloved;
dhurta�-rascal; sa�-this; anya-to another girl; mana�-has given His heart; manak-
slightly; ap�-even; sakhi-O friend; tvay�-to You; adaram-worship; na-does not;
ujjhat�-abandon; it�-thus; anyonya-between each other; katha-of conversation;
rasai�-with the nectar; pramuditam-delighted; r�dh�m-R�dh�; sakhi-of a gop�;
vesavan-in the disguised; nitva-bringing; ku�ja-in the grove; g�ham-to the cottage;
prakasita-revealed; tanu�-His actual form; smera�-smiling; hari�-Lord K���a; patu-
may protect; va�-you all.
"Who are You?"
"I am a gop�-messenger sent by M�dhava."
"What is His message?"
"He says: `O beloved, please don't be angry with Me.'"
"That rascal has given His heart to another girl!"
"O friend, He never stopped worshiping You for a moment."
R�dh� was pleased by the nectar of this conversation. Disguised as a gop�,
K���a brought Her to a cottage in the forest grove, and then revealed His real
form. May smiling Lord K���a protect you all.
-�r� Vasava

Text 250

vasanta� sannaddho vipinam ajana� tva� ca taru��


sphurat-k�m�ve�e vayas� vayam apy �hita-pad��
vraja tva� v� r�dhe k�a�am atha vilambasva yad� v�
sphu�a� j�tas t�vac catura-vacan�n�m avasara�

vasanta�-spring; sannaddha�-is manifested; vipinam-the forest; ajanam-is


secluded; tvam-You; ca-also; tarun�-are a young girl; sphurat-manifested; kama-of
amorous desires; avese-in the entrance; vayas�-in the age; vayam-We; ap�-also;
ahita-pada�-have entered; vrajam-come here; tvam-You; va-or; r�dhe-O R�dh�; k�a�am-
for a moment; atha-now; vilambasva-You delay; yad�-if; va-or; sphutam-clearly;
jata�-manifested; tavat-then; catura-of clever; vacananam-words; avasara�-the
opportunity.

It is spring. This forest is very secluded. You are a young girl, and I am an
amorous young boy. O R�dh�, come to Me. If You hesitate for a moment, You will
simply become the object of Your friends clever teasing jokes.
-author unknown

Tatra �r�-r�dh�-vakya�
�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Reply

Text 251

sv�m� mugdhataro vana� ghanam ida� b�l�ham ek�kin�


k�au��m �v��ute tam�la-malina-cch�y�-tama�-santati�
tan me sundara k���a mu�ca sahas� vartmet� r�dh�-gira�
�rutv� t�� parirabhya manmatha-kal�sakto hari� p�tu va�

sv�mi-My Lord; mugdhatara�-is quite mistaken; vanam-forest; ghanam-is dense


and dark; idam-this; bala-a young girl; aham-I am; ekakin�-all alone; k�aunim-a
young girl; aham-I; ekakin�-all alone; k�aunim-the ground; av��ute-covers; tamala-
of the tamala trees; malina-chaya-tama�-of dark shade; santati�-the abundance; tat-
therefore; me-of Me; sundara-O handsome; k���a-K���a; mu�ca-please leave; sahasa-at
once; vartma-the path; it�-thus; r�dh�-of R�dh�; gira�-the words; �rutva-hearing;
tam-Her; parirabhya-embracing; manmatha-kala-asakta�-amorous; hari�-Lord K���a;
patu-may protect; va�-you all.

"My Lord, You are mistaken. This forest is dense and dark. I am a young girl
all alone. This place is completely covered by the shade of these tam�la trees. O
handsome K���a, please leave Me at once." When K���a heard R�dh�'s words, He at
once embraced Her. May passionate Lord K���a protect you all.
-author unknown

Sv�dh�na-bhart�k�
The Gop� Who Controls Her Lover
Text 252

makar�-viracana-bhangy�
r�dh�-kuca-kalasa-mardana-vyasan�
�jum api rekh�� lumpan
ballava-ve�o harir jayati

makar�-dolphins; viracana-bhangya-with drawing pictures; r�dh�-of �r�mat�


R�dh�r���; kuca-of the breasts; kalasa-the waterpots; mardana-pressing; vyas�ni-
intent; rjum-straight; ap�-also; rekham-line; lumpan-breaking; ballava-vesa�-the
cowherd boy; hari�-K���a; jayat�-all glories.

All glories to the gopa K���a who as He was drawing pictures of dolphins on
�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s waterpotlike breasts became so agitated He was unable to draw a
single straight line.
-author unknown

Kr���nantara� �r�-k���asya svapn�yitam


After Enjoying Transcendental Pastimes, Lord K���a Takes a Nap and Speaks in His
Sleep

Text 253

ete lak�ma�a j�nak�-virahi�a� m�� khedyayanty ambude


marm���va ca gha��ayanty ala� am� kr�ra� kadamb�nila�
ittha� vy�h�ta-p�rva-janma-viraho yo r�dhay� v�k�ita�
ser�ya� �a�kitay� sa va� sukhayatu svapn�yam�no hari�

ete-these; lak�mana-O Lak�mana; janak�-from Janaki; virahinam-separated; mam-


Me; khedayant�-torture; ambuda�-clouds; marm�ni-heart; iva-as if; ca-also;
ghattayant�-strike; alam-violently; �mi-these; krura�-cruel; kadamba-blowing over
the kadamba flowers; an�la�-breeze; ittham-in this way; vyah�ta-described; purva-
previous; janma-of a birth; viraha�-separation from the beloved; ya�-with; irsyam-
jealous anger; sa�kitaya-frightened; sa�-He; va�-you all; sukhayatu-may grant
transcendental bliss; svapnayamana�-sleeping; hari�-Lord K���a.

"O Lak�mana, now that I am separated from J�nak�, these rainclouds torture Me,
and these cruel breezes blowing from the kadamba flowers violently strike My
heart." As R�dh� heard sleeping K���a's description of His feelings of separation
in a previous birth, She became frightened and filled with jealous anger. May
dreaming Lord K���a delight you all.
-�r� �ubh��ka

Va�s�-cauryam
Theft of the Flute

Text 254

n�cair ny�s�d atha cara�ayor n�pure m�kayant�


dh�tv� dh�tv� kanaka-valay�ny utk�ipant� bhujante
mudr�m ak��o� cakita-cakita� �a�vad �lokayant�
smitv� smitv� harat� mural�m a�kato m�dhavasya

nicaih nyasat-from below; atha-then; cara�ayo�-of the feet; nupure-the two


a�klets; mukayant�-silencing; dh�tv� dh�tva-making!; kanaka-golden; vayal�ni-
armlets; utk�ipant�-placing; bhuja-ante-on the arms; mudrem-the sign; ak�o�-of the
eyes; cakita-cakitam-startled; sasvat-continually; alokayant�-observing; smitv�
smitva-repeatedly smiling; harat�-steals; muralim-the flute; a�kata�-from the lap;
m�dhavasya-of Lord K���a.
Silencing Her anklets by placing them on Her arms as golden armlets, and
carefully observing K���a's eyes for any sign of His becoming startled, smiling
R�dh� stole the flute from His lap.
-�r� Daity�r� Pa��ita

T�� mural�� prat� �r�-r�dh�-v�kyam


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Words to the Flute

Text 255

acchidram astu h�daya� parip�r�am astu


maukharyam astu mitam astu gurutvam astu
k���a-priye sakh� di���s� sad-��i�as te
yad v�sare mural� me karu��� karoti

acchidram-without faults; astu-may be; h�dayam-inside; paripurnam-filled;


astu-may be; maukharyam-talkativeness; astu-may be; mitam-slender; astu-may be;
gurutvam-worshippableness; astu-may be; k���a-to K���a; priye-O beloved; sakhi-O
friend; dis�mi-I will grant; sat-nice; asisa�-benediction; te-to you; yat-which;
vasare-on the day; mural�-O flute; me-to Me; karunam-mercy; karos�-you grant.

O flute who is so dear to K���a, when you grant Me your mercy I will also give
you many benedictions in return. I will bless you, saying, "May you become
faultless. May your heart become filled with the nectar from K���a's lips. May you
become very eloquent. May you become charmingly slender. May you become the object
of Lord's K���a's worship."
-�r� Govinda Mi�ra

Text 256

��nyatva� h�daye sa-l�ghavam ida� �u�katvam a�ge�u me


maukharya� vraja-n�tha-n�ma-kathane datta� bhavaty� nijam
tat ki� no mural� prayacchas� punar govinda-vaktr�sava�
ya� p�tv� bhuvana� va�e vidadhat� nirlajjam udg�yasi

sunyatvam-emptiness; h�daye-in the heart; sa-with; laghavam-lightness; idam-


this; suskatvam-dryness; ange�u-in the limbs; me-My; maukharyam-talkativeness;
vraja-of Vraja; n�tha-of the Lord; nama-of the name; kathane-in chanting; dattam-
given; bhavatya-by you; nijam-own qualities; tat-then; kim-why?; na-not; u-indeed;
mural�-O flute; prayacchas�-you give; puna�-again; govinda-of Lord K���a; vaktra-
from the mouth; asavam-the honey; yam-which; pitva-having drunk; bhuvanam-the
world; vase-in control; vidadhat�-placing; nirlajjam-shamelessly; udgayas�-you
sing.

O flute, you have blessed Me by giving Me the emptiness in your heart, your
lightness, the dryness of your body, and your eloquence in constantly chanting the
holy name of K���a, the king of Vraja. Why do you now not give to Me the nectar of
K���a's lips, which you drink, turn into song, and shamelessly use to enchant the
entire world and bring it under your control.
-�r� Govinda Mi�ra

S�ya� harer vraj�gamanam


Lord Har� Returns to Vraja Village in the Evening

Text 257

mandra-kv��ita-ve�ur ahn� �ithile vy�vartayan gokula�


barh�p��akam uttam��ga-racita� go-dh�li-dh�mra� dadhat
ml�yanty� vana-m�lay� parigata� �r�nto 'p� ramy�k�tir
gopa-str�-nayanotsavo vitaratu �rey��s� va� ke�ava�

mandra-sweetly; kvanita-played; ve�u�-the flute; ahn�-when the day; sithile-


had ended; vyavartayan-bringing back; go-of cows; kulam-the herd; barha-apidakam-a
peacock feather; uttama�ga-head; racitam-placed; go-of the cows; dhul�-with the
dust; dhumram-darkened; dadhat-wearing; mlayantya-with a wilting; vana-of forest-
flowers; malaya-garland; parigata�-accompanied; sranta�-tired; ap�-even; ramya-
charming; ak�ti�-whose form; gopa-str�-of the gop�s; nayana-of the eyes; utsava�-a
festival; vitaratu-may grant; sreya�s�-auspiciousness; va�-to you all; kesava�-Lord
K���a.

May Lord Ke�ava who, sweetly playing the flute, a peacock feather in His hair,
blackened with dust, decorated with a wilted forest-flower garland, tired,
handsome, and a festival of happiness for the gop�s eyes, returns with the surabh�
cows at the day's end, grant auspiciousness to you all.
-author unknown

Tatra kasy��cid ukti�


A Certain Gop�'s Words Then

Text 258

d���ya ke�ava go par�ga-h�tay� ki�cin na d���a� may�


ten�dya skhalit�smi n�tha patit�� ki� n�ma n�lambase
ekas tva� vi�ame�u khinna-manas�� sarv�bal�n�� gatir
gopyaiva� gadita� sa-le�am avat�d go��he harir va� ciram

d���ya-with the eyes; kesava-O K���a; go-of the cows; paraga-by the dust;
h�taya-taken; ki�cit-somewhat; na-not; d���am-seen; maya-by me; tena-by this;
adya-now; skhalita-stumbled; asm�-I have; n�tha-O Lord; patitam-to the fallen soul;
kim-why?; nama-indeed; na-not; alambase-You are inclined; eka�-alone; tvam-You;
visame�u-among calamities; khinna-unhappy; manasam-at heart; sarva-of all;
abalanam-women; gati�-the shelter; gopya-by a gop�; evam-in this way; gadita�-
spoken; sa-pesam-completely; avatat-may protect; go��he-in Vrajabhumi; hari�-Lord
K���a; va�-you; ciram-eternally.

"O Ke�ava, my eyes are now filled with the dust raised by the cow's hooves and
I cannot see anything. I have stumbled and fallen to the ground. O Lord, are You
not kind to the fallen? You are the only shelter for all women distressed at
heart." I pray Lord Hari, to whom a gop� spoke these words, will protect you
always.
-author unknown

Text 259

n�bhide�a-vinive�ita-ve�ur
dhenu-puccha-nihitaika-kar�bja�
anya-p��i-parima��ita-da��a�
pu��ar�ka-nayano vrajam �pa

nabhidesa-in His waist; vinivesita-placed; ve�u�-the flute; dhenu-of a cow;


puccha-on the back; nihita-placed; eka-one; kara-hand; abja�-lotus; anya-the other;
p�ni-hand; parimandita-decorated; danda�- a stick; pundarika-nayana�-lotus-eyed
Lord K���a; vrajam-to Vraja Village; apa-went.

His flute tucked into His belt, one lotus hand on a surabh� cow's back and the
other holding a stick, lotus-eyed K���a entered the village of Vraja.
-author unknown
Tatraiva �r�-r�dhik�ya� saubh�gyam
�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Good Fortune

Text 260

bhr�-valli-valanai� kay�p� nayanonme�ai� kay�pi smita-


jyotsn�-vicchuritai� kay�pi nibh�ta� sambh�vitasy�dhvani
garvodbheda-k�t�vahela-lalita-�r�-bh�j� r�dh�nane
s�ta�k�nunaya� jayant� patit�� ka�sa-dvi�o d���aya�

bhr�-of the eyebrows; vall�-of the vines; valanai�-with the movements; kaya
ap�-by one gop�; nayana-unmesai�-with glances; kaya ap�-by one gop�; smita-of
smiles; jyotsna-vicchuritai�-with the moonlight; kaya ap�-by one gop�; nibh�tam-
secretly; sambhavitasya-worshipped; adhv�ni-on the path; garva-pride; udbheda-
breaking; k�ta-done; avahela-contempt; lalita-charming; �r�-bhaj�-beautiful; r�dh�-
of �r�mat� R�dh�r���; anane-on the face; sa-with; ata�ka-fear; anunayam-and
supplication; jayant�-all glories; patita�-fallen; ka�sa-dvi�a�-of Lord K���a, the
enemy of Ka�sa; d���aya�-the glances.

As K���a walked on the path one gop� secretly worshiped Him with the playful
movements of her vine eyebrows, another with her sidelong glances, and another with
the moonlitght of her smiles. However, it was on R�dh�'s face, which was filled
with a graceful beauty that mocked the other gop�s and broke their pride, that His
shy, amorous glances fell. All glories to those glances of K���a, the enemy of
Ka�sa.
-�r� Um�patidhara

Text 261

tiryak-kandharam a�sa-de�a-milita-�rotr�vata�sa� sphurad-


barhottambhita-ke�a-p��am an�ju-bhr�-vallar�-vibhramam
gu�jad-ve�u-nive�it�dhara-pu�a� s�k�ta-r�dh�nana-
nyast�m�lita-d���� gokula-pater vaktr�mbuja� p�tu va�

tiryak-tilted; kandharam-neck; a�sa-desa-shoulders; milita-meeting; srotra-


avata�sam-earrings; sphurat-splendid; barha-peacock feather; uttambhita-held; kesa-
pasam-in the hair; anrju-crooked; bhr�-of the eyebrows; vallar�-the vines;
vibhramam-restless; gu�jat-sounding; ve�u-flute; nivesita-placed; adhara-putam-to
the lips; sa-with; akuta-meaning; r�dh�-of �r�mat� R�dh�r���; anana-on the face;
nyasta-placed; smilita-d����-sidelong glance; gokula-of Gokula; pate�-of the king;
vaktra-face; ambujam-lotus; patu-may protect; va�-you all.

May Gokulapat� K���a's lotus face, with neck tilted, earrings touching His
shoulders, a splendid peacock feather decorating His hair, bending vines of His
eyebrows moving restlessly, a flute on His lips making sweet music, and an amorous
sidelong glance falling on R�dh�'s face, protect you all.
-�r� Lak�ma�a Sena

Text 262

a�s�sakta-kapola-va��a-vadana-vy�s�kta-bimb�dhara-
dvandvod�rita-manda-manda-pavana-pr�rabdha-mugdha-dhvani�
��ad-vakrima-lola-h�ra-nikara� pratyeka-rok�nana-
nya�ca-ca�cad-uda�cad-a�gul�-cayas tvam� p�tu r�dh�-dhava�

a�sa-on His shoulders; asakta-resting; kapola-on His cheek�; va�sa-the flute;


vadana-the mouth; vyasakta-resting; bimba-bimba fruit; adhara-of lips; dvandva-on
the pair; udirita-arisen; manda-manda-very gentle; pavana-breeze; prarabdha-begun;
mugdha-beautiful; dhvani�-sounds; isat-slightly; vakrima-crooked; lola-moving;
hara-of necklaces; nikara�-group; pratyeka-each; roka-anana-hole; nya�cat-placing;
candcat-moving; uda�cat-arched; angul�-of fingers; caya�-group; tvam-you; patu-may
protect; r�dh�-of �r�mat� R�dh�r���; dhava�-the lover.

May R�dh�'s lover, K���a, who, resting the flute on His cheek and shoulder,
placing the flute's mouth to His bimba-fruit lips and, gently blowing, makes a very
sweet sound, His necklaces slightly swaying as He moves His arched fingers over the
flute's holes, protect you.
-�r� N�thoka

Go-dohanam
Milking the Cows

Text 263

a�gu��h�grima-yantrit��gulir asau p�d�rdha-n�ruddha-bh�r


�rdri-k�tya payodhar��calam ala� dvi-trai� payo-bindubhi�
nyag-j�nu-dvaya-madhya-yantrita-gha��-vaktr�ntar�la-skhalad-
dh�r�dhv�na-manohara� sakh� payo g�� dogdh� d�modara�

angustha-of the thumb; agrima-by the tip; yantrita-held; anguli�-finger; asau-


He; pada-foot; ardha-by half; niruddha-pressed; bhu�-the ground; �rdr�-k�tya-
moistening; payodhara-milk; a�calam-corner; ala�-greatly; dv�-with two; trai�-or
three; paya�-of milk; bindubhi�-drops; nyak-turned down; janu-of knees; dvaya-the
pair; madhya-in the middle; yantrita-held; ghat�-the pot; vaktra-the mouth;
antarala-within; skhalat-falling; dhara-stream; adhvana-path; manoharam-charming;
sakhi-O friend; paya�-milk; gam-from the cow; dogdh�-milks; damodara�-Lord K���a.

Resting on half His feet, grasping the under between His thumb and finger,
spraying Himself with two or three stray drops, and making a charming stream of
milk pour into the pail balanced between His arched knees, D�modara milks a surabh�
cow.
-�r� �ara�a

�r� K���a� prat� candr�val�-sakh�-vakya�


Words of Candr�val�'s Friend to Lord K���a

Text 264

sa�h�nyasy�� k��c�-ma�i-ra�itam �kar�ya sahas�


yad��li��ann eva pra�ithila-bhuja-granthir abhava�
tad etat kv�cak�e gh�ta-madhu-may� tvad-bahu-vaco
vi�e��gh�r�ant� kim api na sakh� me ga�ayati

satha-O cheater; anyasy��-of another girl; ka�c�-of the belt; m�ni-of the
jewels; ranitam-the tinkling; �kar�ya-hearing; sahasa-at once; yada-when; aslistan-
embracing; eva-certainly; prasithila-slackened; bhuja-of the arms; granthi�-the
knot; abhava�-became; tat etat-this; kva-where?; acak�e-I speak; gh�ta-of ghee;
madhu-and honey; maya-consisting; tvat-Your; bahu-many; vaca�-of the words; visena-
by the poison; aghurnant�-agitated; kim ap�-anything; na-not; me-my; sakhi-friend;
ganayat�-notices.

O cheater, even as You are embrace Candr�val�, when You hear the tinkling of
the jeweled belt of some other girl, Your attention turns to her and the knot of
Your arms around Candr�val� becomes loosened. How can I tell her? My friend
Candr�val� has been poisened by Your eloquent words mixed with honey and ghee, She
can no longer see.
-author unknown
�r� Govardhana-dhara�am
Lifting Govardhana Hill

Text 265

sa-tr�s�rt� ya�oday� priya-gu�a-pr�tek�a�a� r�dhay�


nagnair ballava-s�nubhi� sa-rabhasa� sambh�vit�tmorjitai�
bh�t�nandita-vismitena vi�ama� nandena c�lokita�
p�y�d va� kara-padma� su-sthita-mah�-�aila� sa-l�lo hari�

sa-with; trasa-fear; art�-suffering; yasodaya-by Yasoda; priya-of Her lover;


guna-the transcendental qualities; prita-with pleasure; �k�a�am-with the glance;
r�dh�ya-by �r�mat� R�dh�r���; nagnai�-naked; ballava-of the gopas; sunubhi�-by the
sons; sa-with; rabhasam-joy; sambhavita-considered; atma-to themselves; urjitai�-
equal in stregnth; bhita-frightened; �nandita-delighted; vismitena-and struck with
wonder; visamam-greatly; nandena-by Nanda Maharaja; ca-also; alokita�-seen; payat-
may protect; va�-you all; kara-hand; padma�-lotus; su-sthita-comfortably placed;
maha-great; saila�-hill; sa-with; l�l��-playfulness; hari�-K���a.

May K���a on whom, as He playfully lifted tall Govardhana Hill with His lotus
hand, Mother Ya�oda� gazed with fear and pain, R�dha� gazed with pleasure to see
the transcendental qualities of Her lover, the small naked gopa-boys happily gazed,
thinking they were as strong as He and could also lift the hill if they tried, and
Mah�r�ja Nanda gazed with simultaneous terror, delight, and wonder, protect you
all.
-�r� Sohnoka

Text 266

ekenaiva cir�ya k���a bhavat� govardhano 'ya� dh�ta�


�r�nto 's� k�a�am �ssva s�mpratam am� sarve vaya� dadhmahe
ity ull�sita-do��� gopa-nivahe ki�cid-bhuj�ku�cana-
nya�cac-chaila-bhar�rdite viruvat� smero hari� p�tu va�

ekena-alone; eva-certainly; ciraya-for a long time; k���a-O K���a; bhavata-by


You; govardhana-Govardhana Hill; ayam-this; dh�ta�-has been held; sranta�-tired;
as�-You are; k�a�am-for a moment; assva-sit down; sampratam-now; �mi� these; sarve-
all; vayam-we; dadhmahe-will hold it; it�-thus; ullasita-raised; dosn�-on the
arms; gope-of gopas; nivahe-on the multitude; ki�cit-a little; bhuja-arms;
akuncana-bending; nya�cat-placing; saila-of the hill; bhara-by the burden; ardite-
distressed; viruvat�-screaming; smera�-smiling; hari�-Lord K���a; patu-may protect;
va�-you all.

"O K���a, for a long time You held up Govardhana Hill without any help. You
must be very tired now. Please sit down and rest. All of us will hold the hill in
Your place." K���a then shifted a small portion of the hill's weight onto the
raised arms of the cowherd men. When they felt the pressure of the hill, their arms
became bent and they began to scream. May K���a, who smiled to see all this,
protect you all.
-�r� Sara�a

Text 267

khinno 's� mu�ca �aila�


bibh�mo vayam it� vadatsu �ithila-bhuja�
bhara-bhugna-vitata-bahu�u
gope�u hasan harir jayati
khinna�-distressed; as�-You are; mu�ca-give up; sailam-the hill; bibhrma�-
hold; vayam-we will; it�-thus; vadatsu-speaking; sithila-slackened; bhuja�-arm;
bhara-by the weight; bhugna-bending; vitata-extended; bahusu-arms; gope�u-among the
cowherd men; hasan-smiling; hari�-Lord K���a; jayat�-all glories.

"You must be exhausted by now. Let go of the hill and we will hold it for
You." When He shifted a little of the hill's weight, and the arms of the cowherd
men began to become crushed, K���a began to smile. All glories to K���a.
-�r� Subandhu

Text 268

d�ra� d���i-path�t tirobhava harer govardhana� bibhratas


tvayy �sakta-d��a� k��odar� kara-srasto 'sya m� bh�d ayam
gop�n�m it� jalpita� kalayato r�dh�-nirodh��raya�
�v�s�� �aila-bhara-�rama-bhramakar�� ka�sa-dvi�a� p�ntu va�

duram-far away; d����-of the glance; pathat-from the path; tirobhava-You


should disappear; hare�-of Lord K���a; govardhanam-Govardhana Hill; bibhrata�-
holding; tvay�-to You; asakta-attached; d��a�-glances; krsa-udar�-O slender girl;
kara�-of the hand; srasta�-slipping; asya-of Him; ma-not; bh�t-may be; ayam-this;
gop�nam-of the gop�s; it�-thus; jalpitam-the words; kalayata�-hearing; r�dh�-of
R�dh�; nirodha-asrayam-the restraint; svasa�-sighs; saila-of the hill; bhara-the
weight; srama-from fatigue; bhramaraka�-slipping; ka�sa-dvi�a�-of Lord K���a, the
enemy of Ka�sa; pantu-may protect; va�-you all.

"Please go far away from the path of K���a's eyes. O slender girl, don't make
Govardhana Hill fall from His hand because He is absorbed in gazing on You." When
K���a heard the gop�s words to stop R�dh�, He sighed and the hill began to slip
from His hand. May those sighs of Lord K���a protect you all.
-�r� �ubh��ka

Nauka-l�l�
Boating Pastimes

Text 269

kuru p�ra� yamun�y�


muhur it� gop�bhir utkar�h�ta�
tari-ta�a-kapa�a-�ay�lur
dvi-gu��lasyo harir jayati

kuru-carry us; param-to the other shore; yamun�ya�-of the Yamun�; muhu�-
repeatedly; it�-thus; gop�bhi�-by the gop�s; utkara-many times; ahuta�-called;
tar�-of the boat; tata-on the side; kapata-pretended; sayalu�-sleepy; dv�-guna-
doubled; alasya�-laziness; hari�-to Lord K���a; jayat�-all glories.

"Take us to the other side of the Yamun�!" Repeatedly called by the gop�s,
K���a pretended to nap by His boat. All glories to doubly indolent Lord K���a.
-�r� Sa�jaya Kavi�ekhara

Text 270

utti��har�t tarau me taru�� mama taro� �aktir �rohane k�


s�k��d �khy�mi mugdhe tara�im iha raver �khyay� k� ratir me
v�teya� nau-prasa�ge katham api bhavit� n�vayo� sa�gam�rth�
v�rt�p�t� smit�sya� jita-giram ajita� r�dhay�r�dhay�mi

yath�-just as; padyavalyam-in Padyavali; uttistha-stand; arat-nearby; tarau-on


the boat; me-My; tarun�-o young girl; mama-of Me; taro�-of the tree; sakti�-the
power; arohane-in climbing; ka-what?; sak�at-directly; akhy�mi-I say; mugdhe-O
charming and bewildered girl; taranim-boat; iha-in this connection; rave�-of the
sun; akhyaya-by name; ka-what?; rati�-happiness; me-of Me; varta-words; iyam-
these; nau-to the boat; prasa�ge-in relation; katham ap�-somehow; bhavita-will be;
na-not; avayo�-of Us two; sa�gama-association; artha-for the purpose; varta-words;
ap�-also; it�-in this way; smita-smiling; asyam-whose face; jita-defeated; giram-in
words; ajitam-undefeateable Lord K���a; r�dh�ya-with �r�mat� R�dh�r���; ar�dh�y�mi-
I worship.

K���a: My dear young girl, please step into My tar� (boat, which become tarau
in the locative case).
R�dh�: What power do I have to climb trees? (Here R�dh� interprets tarau to be
the locative of taru, which means tree.)
K���a: My dear, charming, bewildered girl, I do not mean tree, I mean tara�i
(boat).
R�dh�: Why would I want to go to the sun? (Here She interprets the word tara�i
to mean sun.)
K���a: All these words I have used mean nau (boat).
R�dh�: All these words are meant to bring Us together. (Here She interprets
the word nau to mean Us.)

I worship unconquerable Lord K���a, who happily smiled as �r� R�dha� defeated
Him in this playful verbal-duel.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 271

mukt� tara�ga-nivahena pata�ga-putr�


navy� ca naur it� vacas tava tathyam eva
�a�ka-nid�nam idam eva mam�ti-m�tra�
tva� ca�calo yad iha m�dhava n�viko 'si

mukta-free; tara�ga-of waves; nivahena-of the multitude; pata�ga-putr�-the


Yamuna� River, the daughter of the sun-god; navya-new; ca-also; nau�-boat; it�-
thus; vaca�-statement; tava-of You; tathyam-true; eva-certainly; �a�ka-of anxiety;
nidanam-the cause; idam-this; eva-certainly; mama-of me; at�-matram-boundless;
tvam-You; ca�cala�-restless; yat-because; iha-here; m�dhava-O K���a; navika�-the
navigator; as�-are.

What You say is true. There are no waves on the Yamun�, and this is a new,
sturdy boat. I am so afraid because You, O M�dhava, are the reckless captain of the
boat.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 272

j�r�� tar� sarid at�va-gabh�ra-n�r�


b�l� vaya� sakalam ittham anartha-hetu�
nist�ra-b�jam idam eva k��odar����
yan m�dhava tvam as� samprat� kar�adh�ra�

jirna-old; tar�-boat; sarit-the river; ativa-very; gabhira-deep; nira-water;


bala�-young girls; vayam-we; sakalam-completely; ittham-in this way; anartha-of
danger; hetu�-the source; nistara-for crossing; bijam-the method; idam-this; eva-
certainly; krsa-udarinam-of slender girls; yat-because; m�dhava-O K���a; tvam-You;
as�-are; samprat�-now; kar�adhara�-captain of the boat.

The river is very deep, this is an old boat, and we are simply helpless girls.
It is very dangerous for us. Nevertheless, O M�dhava, at the present moment You are
the only boat-captain who can take us slender girls across the Yamun�.
-�r� Jagad�nanda R�ya

Text 273

ambhas� tara�i-sut�y��
stambhita-tara�i� sa devak�-suta�
�tura-virahita-gopy��
k�tara-mukham �k�ate smera�

ambhas�-in the water; tar�ni-of the Yamuna� River, the daughter of the sun-
god; stambhita-motinless; tarani�-boat; sa�-He; devak�-suta�-Lord K���a, the son of
Devaki; atara-the boat-fare; virahita-without; gopya�-of the gop�; katara-
distressed; mukha-face; �k�ate-gazes; smera�-smiling.

K���a suddenly stopped the boat in the middle of the Yamun� and demanded
immediate payment of the fare. He smiled as He gazed at the frightened face of the
gop�, who had no money to give.
-�r� S�ryad�sa

Text 274

v�c� tavaiva yadunandana gavya-bh�ro


h�ro 'p� v�ri�� may� sahas� vik�r�a�
d�r�-k�ta� ca kucayor anayor duk�la�
k�la� kalinda-duhitur na tath�py ad�ram

vaca-by the statement; tava-of You; eva-certainly; yadu-nandana-O K���a,


descendent of Maharaja Yadu; gavya-of milk-products; bhara�-the great load; hara�-
the necklace; ap�-also; varin�-in the water; maya-by Me; sahasa-at once; vikirna�-
in the water; maya-by Me; sahasa-at once; vikirna�-cast; dur�-k�tam-thrown far
away; ca-also; kucayo�-on the breasts; anayo�-on them; dukulam-the garment; kulam-
the shore; kalinda-Kalinda; na-not; tath� ap�-still; aduram-is near.

O Yadunandana, by Your order I have cast into the water these milk-products as
well as My own necklace. I have thrown My bodice far away. Still, the shore of the
Yamun� has not come any closer.
-author unknown

Text 275

paya�-p�rai� p�r�� sapad� gata-gh�r�� ca pavanair


gabh�re k�lind�-payasi tarir e�� pravi�ati
aho me durdaiva� parama-kutuk�kr�nta-h�dayo
harir v�ra� v�ra� tad api kara t�li� racayati

paya�-of water; purai�-with floods; purna-filled; sapad�-at once; gata-gone;


ghurna-tossed; ca-also; pavanai�-by the winds; gabhire-into the deep; k�lind�-of
the Yamun�; payas�-in the water; tari�-boat; esa�-this; pravisat�-enters; aho-
alas!; me-my; durdaivam-misfortune; parama-supreme; kutuka-by eagerness; akranta-
overwhelmed; h�daya�-whose heart; hari�-K���a; varam-again; varam-and again; tat-
ap�-still; kara-of the hands; talim-the surface; racayat�-does.

The boat is violently tossed by the wind. Filling with water, it is now
sinking into the Yamun�. Alas! Destiny has become my enemy. Even in this calamity
lusty-hearted K���a again and again puts His hand on me!
-�r� Manohara
Text 276

p�n�ya-secana-vidhau mama naiva p���


vi�ramyatas tad api te parih�na-v���
j�v�mi cet punar aha� na tad� kad�pi
k���a tvad�ya-tara�au cara�au dad�mi

paniya-of water; secana-vidhau-is splashing; mama-my; na-not; eva-certainly;


p�ni-hands; visramyata�-exhausted; tat ap�-sitll; te-of You; parihasa-joking; v�ni-
words; j�v�mi-I live; cet-if; puna�-again; aham-I; na-not; tada-then; kada ap�-at
any time; k���a-O K���a; tvadiya-in Your; tara�au-boat; cara�au-two feet; dad�mi-I
will place.

My hands are exhausted. They can no longer push the water out. All You do is
speak joking words. O K���a, if I live through this, never again will I place my
feet in Your boat.
-�r� Manohara

Text 277

idam uddi�ya vayasya�


sva-sam�hita-daivata� namata
yamunaiva j�nu-daghn�
bhavatu na v� n�viko 'st� apara�

idam-to this; uddi�ya-in relation; vayasya�-O gop�-friends; sva-own; samihita-


desired; daivatam-to the deity; namata-everyone bow down; yamun�-the Yamuna� River;
janu-the knees; daghn�-as deep as; bhavatu-may be; na-not; va-or; navika�-a boat-
captain; astu-may be; apara�-someone else.

O gop�-friends, all of you please bow down before your chosen deity and pray
that either the Yamun� River will not be deep as our knees, or we get a boat-
captain other than K���a.
-�r� Mukunda Bha���c�rya

Text 278

tarir uttaral� sarid gabh�r�


taralo nanda-suta� ca kar�adh�ra�
abal�ham upait� bh�nur astam
sakh� d�re nagar�ha ki� karomi

tari�-the boat; uttarala-rock to and fro; sarit-the river; gabhira-is deep;


tarala�-reckless; nanda-of Maharaja Nanda; suta�-the son; ca-also; kar�adhara�-is
the boat-captain; abala-a helpless girl; aham-I am; upait�-attains; bhanu�-the sun;
astam-the western horizon; sakhi-O friend; kim-what?; karom�-will I do.

The boat rocks to and fro. The river is deep. The reckless son of Mah�r�ja
Nanda is the captain. I am a helpless girl. The sun is setting in the west, and the
village of Vraja is still far away. O gop�-friend, what will I do now?
-author unknown

Text 279

n�pek�ate stuti-katha� na ���ot� k�ku�


�a�vat-k�ta� na manute pra�ip�ta-j�tam
h� ki� vidheyam adhun� sakh� nanda-s�nur
madhye tara�gin� tari� taralo dhunoti
na-does not; apek�ate-pay attention; stut�-katham-to My prayers; na-does not;
srnot�-hear; kakum-My begging with a broken voice; sasvat-repeatedly; k�tam-done;
na-does not; manuta-consider; pranipata-jatam-My bowing down before Him; ha-alas!;
kim-what?; vidhayam-can I do; adhuna-now; sakt�-O gop�-friend; nanda-of Maharaja
Nanda; sunu�-the son; madhye-in the middle; tara�gin�-of the wave-filled river;
tarim-the boat; tarala�-reckless; dhunot�-shakes.

He pays no attention to My prayers. He does not hear My begging in a broken


voice. He does not consider My repeatedly bowing down before Him. O gop�-friend,
what will I do now? In the middle of this wave-filled river, the reckless son of
Mah�r�ja Nanda violently shakes the boat.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 280

e�ottu�ga-tara�ga-la�ghita-ta�osa�g� pata�g�tmaj�
p�r�eya� tarir ambubhir na h� hare� �a�k� kala�k�d api
k��hi�ya� bhaja n�dya sundar� vaya� r�dhe pras�dena te
j�v�ma� sphu�am �tar�-kuru giri-dro��-vinodotsavam

esa-this; utta�ga-with tall; tara�ga-waves; langhita-crossec; tata-utsa�ga-the


surface and shore; pata�ga-atmaja-the Yamuna� River, the daughter of the sun-god;
purna-filled; iyam-this; tari�-boat; ambubhi�-with water; na-not; h�-indeed; hare�-
of K���a; �a�ka-fear; kala�kat-from the calamity; ap�-even; kathiyam-harshness;
bhaja-do; na-not; adya-now; sundar�-O beautiful girl; vayam-we; r�dhe-O R�dh�;
prasadena-by the mercy; ta-of You; j�vana�-will live; sphutam-clearly; atar�-kuru-
pay the fare; gir�-of Govardhana Hill; dron�-in the cave; vinoda-of pastimes;
utsavam-a festival.

"The Yamun� is filled with huge waves, and the boat is filling with water.
Still, K���a is not afraid."
"O beautiful R�dh�, don't be so harsh. By Your mercy We will live through
this. All You need do is pay the boat-fare of a promise to enjoy with Me a festival
of amorous pastimes in the cave of Govardhana Hill."
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 281

k�ku� karos� g�ha-ko�a-kar��a-pu�ja-


g��h��ga ki� nanu v�th� kitava pray�hi
kutr�dya j�r�a-tara�i-bhrama��ti-bh�ti-
gop��gan�-ga�a-vidambana-c�tur� te

kakum-an emotional appeal; karosi-You do; g�ha-of the house; kona-in a corner;
karosi-You do; g�ha-of the house; kona-in a corner; karisa-of dried cow-dung;
pu�ja-in a heap; gudha-hidden; a�ga� whose body; kim-why?; nanu-is it not?; v�tha-
useless; kitava� O cheater; prayahi-go away; kutra-where?; adya-now; jirna� old;
tar�ni-in a boat; bhramana-by the rocking motion; ati� great; bhiti-because of
fear; gopa-a�gana-of gop�s; gana-the multitude; vidambana-at tricking caturi-
expertize; te-of You.

O K���a, O cheater hiding behind this heap of dried cow-dung, why do you
uselessly beg me in this way? Go away! (This is a foolish trick.) You used to be
very expert at tricking the gop�s. You expertly tricked them when You frightened
them in an old boat. Where is that expertise now?
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Note: One time Lord K���a took the gop�s for a ride in an old boat. When the
boat began to rock dangerously in a storm, K���a extorted various amorous favors
from the frightened gop�s in return for their rescue.

R�dhay� saha harer v�ko-v�kya�


Conversation Between K���a and R�dh�

Text 282

a�guly� ka� kav��a� praharat� ku�ile m�dhava� ki� vasanto


no cakr� ki� kul�lo na h� dhara��-dhara� ki� dv�-jihva� pha��ndra�
n�ha� ghor�-mard� kim as� khaga-patir no hari� ki� kap��o
r�dh�-v���bhir ittha� prahasita-vadana� p�tu va� cakra-p��i�

a�guly�-with a single finger; ka�-who; kav��am-on the door; praharat�-taps;


ku�ila-O crooked girl; m�dhava�-It is K���a; kim-whether?; vasanta�-springtime; na-
not; u-indeed; cakr�-K���a who weilds the cakra; kim-whether?; kul�la�-a potter;
na-not; h�-certainly; dhara��-dhara�-K���a, who maintains the earth; kim-whether;
dv�-with two; jihva�-tongues; phan�-indra�-Ananta �e�a, the king of the snakes; na-
not; aham-I am; ghora-terrible; ah�-of snakes; mard�-the crusher; kim-whether; as�-
You are; khaga-pati�-Garu�a, the king of the birds; na-not; u-indeed; hari�-I am
Hari; kim-whether; kap�-��a�-Hanum�n, the king of the monkeys; r�dh�-of �r�mat�
R�dh�r���; v���bhi�-by the words; ittham-in this way; prahasita-smiling; vadana�-
whose face; p�tu-may protect; va�-you all; cakra-p��i�-Lord K���a, who wields the
Sudar�ana cakra.

"Who taps on My door with one finger?"


"O crooked girl, it is M�dhava."
"M�dhava is a name of spring. Has springtime come knocking on My door?
"Certainly not. It is the holder of the Sudar�ana wheel."
"Potters hold wheels. Are You a potter?"
"I am not. I am the person who holds up the entire world."
"The forked-tongued serpent king Ananta holds up the world. Are You He?"
"No. I am a person who crushes serpents."
"The bird-king Garu�a crushes serpents. Are You he?
"No. I am Lord Hari."
"Har� is a name of the monkey-king Hanum�n. Are You he?

May Lord K���a, who holds the Sudar�ana cakra, and who smiled to hear these
clever words from �r�mat� R�dh�r���, protect you all.
-author unknown

Text 283

kas tva� bho ni�� ke�ava� sirasijai� ki� n�ma garv�yase


bhadre �aurir aha� gu�ai� pit�-gatai� putrasya ki� sy�d iha
cakr� candramukh� prayacchas� nu me ku���� gha��� doha��m
ittha� gopa-vadh�-jitottaratay� hr��o hari� p�tu va�

ka�-who; tvam-are You; bho�-O; nis�-in the night; kesava�-I am Kesava;


sirasijai�-with hair; kim-what is the use?; nama-indeed; garvayase-You are proud;
bhadre-O beautiful girl; sauri�-the descendent of Maharaja Surasena; aham-I am;
gunai�-with virtues; pitr-to the ancestor; gatai�-gone; putrasya-of the descendant;
kim-what?; syat-is to be done; iha-here; cakr�-I am the holder of the Sudar�ana
wheel; candra-mukh�-O moon-faced girl; prayacchas�-You give; nu-will?; dohanim-a
milk-bucket; ittham-in this way; gopa-vadhu-the gop�; jita-defeated; uttarataya-by
replies; hrina�-embarrassed; hari�-Lord K���a; patu-may protect; va�-you all.

"Who is there in the darkness of night?"


"It is Ke�ava."
"Ke�a means hair. Why should hair approach Me? You are awfully proud, hair."
"O beautiful girl, I am the grandson of Mah�r�ja ��rasena."
"Of what use is the worthless son of a virtuous grandfather?"
"O moon-faced girl, I am the holder of the Sudar�ana wheel."
"Ah, You are a potter who spins a potter's wheel! Will You give Me a bowl, a
pot, and a milk-bucket?"
May Lord K���a, who was embarrassed by these clever replies of the gop� R�dh�,
protect you all.
-�r� Cakrap��i

Text 284

v�sa� samprat� ke�ava kva bhavato mugdhek�a�e nan� ida�


v�sa� br�h� �a�ha prak�ma-subhage tvad-g�tra-sa�sargata�
y�miny�m u�ita� kva dh�rta vitanur mu���t� ki� y�min�
�aurir gopa-vadh�� chalai� parihasann evam-vidhai� p�tu va�

vasa�-garment (or residence); samprat�-at present; kesava-O K���a; kva-where?;


bhavata�-of You; mugdha-beautiful; �k�a�e-in the eyes; nanu-is it not?; idam-this;
vasam-garment (or fragance); bruh�-speak; satha-O cheater; prakama-subhage-O
beautiful girl; tvat-Your; gatra-body; sa�sargata�-to be associated; yaminyam-
during the night; usita�-resided; kva-where?; dhurta-O rascal; vitanu�-slender;
musnat�-steals; kim-whether; yamin�-night; sauri�-Lord K���a, the descendent of
Maharaja Surasena; gopa-vadhum-the gop�; chalai�-with clever words; parihasan-
smiling; evam-vidhai�-in this way; patu-may protect; va�-you all.

One morning, when K���a came to R�dh�, R�dh� asked Him, "My dear Ke�ava, where
is Your v�sa at present?" The Sanskrit word "v�sa: has three meanings: one meaning
is residence, one meaning is fragance, and another meaning is dress.
Actually R�dh�r��� inquired from K���a "Where is Your dress?" But K���a took
the meaning as residence, and He replied to R�dh�r���, "My dear captivated one, at
the present moment My residence is in Your beautiful eyes."
To this R�dh�r��� replied, "My dear cunning boy, I did not ask You about Your
residence, I inquired about Your dress."
K���a then took the meaning of "v�sa" as fragance and said, "My dear fortunate
one, I have just assumed this fragance in order to be associated with Your body."
�r�mat� R�dh�r��� again inquired from K���a, "Where did You pass Your night?"
The exact Sanskrit word used in this connection was "y�miny�mu�ita�". "Y�miny�m"
means "at night", and u�ita� means "pass." K���a, however, divided the word
"y�miny�mu�ita� into two separate words, namely "y�miny�" and "mus#ita�". By
dividing this word into two, it came out to mean that He was kidnapped by Y�min�,
or night, K���a therefore replied to R�dh�r���, "My dear R�dh�r���, is it possible
that night can kidnap Me?" In this way He was answering all of the questions of
R�dh�r��� so cunningly that He gladdened this dearest of the gop�s.� May smiling
Lord K���a protect you all.
-author unknown

Text 285

r�dhe tva� kupit� tvam eva ku-pit� sra���s� bh�mer yato


m�t� tvam� jagat�m� tvam eva jagat�m� m�t� na vij�o 'para�
dev� tva� parih�sa-keli-kalahe 'nanta tvam evety asau
smero ballava-sundar�m avanama{.sy 241� chauri� �r�yam� va� kriy�t

r�dhe-O R�dh�; tvam-You; kupita-are angry; tvam-You; eva-certainly; ku-of the


earth; pita-the father; srasta-the creator; as�-You are; bhume�-of the earth;
yata�-because; mata-the mother; tvam-You are; jagatam-of the universes; tvam-You;
eva-certainly; jagatam-of the universes; mata-the mother; na-not; vij���-
intelligent; apara�-another; dev�-O goddess; tvam-You; parihasa-joking; kel�-of
pastimes; kahale-in the lover's quarrel; ananta-boundless; tvam-You are; eva-
certainly; it�-thus; asau-He; smera�-smiling; ballava-sundarim-to the beautiful
gop�; avanaman-bowing down; sauri�-Lord K���a; �r�yam-auspiciousness; va�-to you
all; kriyat-may do.

"R�dh�, You have become kupit� (angry)."


"Ku means earth, and pit� means father. It is You who are father of the
earth."
"And You are the mother of all the universes."
"You are the actual mother of the universes. You are omniscient. No one is
Your equal."
"O Goddess, Your skill in joking lover's quarrels is ananta (unlimited)."
"Nan means bowing down, ta means the state of being, and a means without. It
is You whom possess this quality of ananta (refusing to bow down)."
May Lord K���a, who smiled as He then bowed down before the beautiful gop�
R�dh�, grant auspiciousness to you all.
-�r� Harihara

R�sa
The R�sa-dance

Text 286

v�nd�ra�ye pramada-sadane mallik�-pu�pa-mode


�r�-�ubhr���o� kira�a-rucire kokil�dyair manoj�e
r�trau citre pa�upa-vanit�-citta-deh�pah�r�
ka�s�r�ter madhura-mural�-v�dya-r�jo rar�ja

v�nd�-aranye-in the forest of V�nd�vana; pramada-of pleasure; sadane-the


abode; mallika-pu�pa-of jasmine flowers; mode-with the fragance; �r�-subhra�so�-of
the beautiful moon; kira�a-with the shining; rucire-splendid; kokila-adyai�-with
the cuckoos and other birds; manojne-charming; ratrau-in the night; citrau-
wonderful; pasupa-vanita-of the gop�s; citta-the hearts; deha-and bodies; apahar�-
stealing; madhura-sweet; mural�-of the flute; vadya-of the music; raja�-the king;
raraja-was splendidly manifest.

On a wonderful night, in delightful V�nd�vana forest filled with the fragance


of jasmine flowers, illuminated by beautiful moonlight, and made charming by the
singing of the cuckoos and other birds, K���a's sweet, regal flute music, which
stole away the gop�s hearts and bodies, was splendidly manifest.
-author unknown

Text 287

adhar�m�ta-m�dhur�-dhur��o
hari-l�l�-mural�-nin�da e�a�
pratat�na mana�-pramodam uccair
hari��n�� hari��-d���� mun�n�m

adhara-of the lips; am�ta-of the nectar; madhur�-with the sweetness; dhurina�-
filled; har�-of Lord K���a; l�l�-of pastimes; mural�-of the flute; ninada�-sound;
esa�-this; pratatana-gave; mana�-of the heart; harin�-d��am-of the doe-eyed gop�s;
muninam-of the sages.

Filled with the sweet nectar of K���a's lips, the playful sound of the flute
delighted the does, the doe-eyed gop�s, and the sages.
-�r� M�dhavendra Pur�

Text 288
l�l�-mukharita-mural�-
taral�-k�ta-gopa-bh�vin�-nivaha�
tad-adhara-madhun� sa-t���a�
k���a� p�y�d ap�yato bhavata�

l�l�-playfully; mukharita-talkative; mural�-by the flute; taral�-k�ta-made to


tremble; gopa-bhavin�-of the gop�s; nivaha�-the multitude; tat-of them; adhara-of
the lips; madhun�-for the honey; sa-with; t���a�-thirst; k���a�-Lord K���a; payat-
may protect; apayata�-from calamity; bhavata�-you all.

May K���a, who thirsted after the honey of the gop�s lips, and whose playful,
talkative flute made the gop�s tremble, protect you from all dangers.
-�r� M�dhava Cakravart�

Text 289

k�raya n�mba vilamba�


mu�ca kara� me hari� y�si
na sahe sth�tu� yad asau
garjat� mural� pragalbha-d�t�va

karaya-make; na-don't; amba-O mother; vilamba-delay; mu�ca-let go; karam-of


the hand; me-my; harim-to K���a; y�mi-I am going; na-not; sahe-I am able; sthatum-
to stay; yat-because; asau-this; garjat�-sounds; mural�-the flute; pragalbha-an
audacious; dut�-messenger; iva-like.

Mother, don't stop me! Let go of my hand! I am going to K���a. Because K���a's
bold messenger, the flute, calls me, I cannot stay here.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 290

c���-cumbita-c�ru-candraka-caya� c�m�kar�bh�mbara�
kar�otta�sita-kar�ik�ra-kusuma� kandarpa-kallolinam
va���-v�dana-v�vad�ka-vadana� vakr�-bhavad-�k�a�a�
bh�gyam� bha�gura-madhyama� pari�atam� ku�j�ntare bhejire

cuda-crown; cumbita-kissed; caru-beautiful; candraka-of peacock feathers;


cayam-with a host; camikara-of gold; abha-with the color; ambaram-whose garments;
kar�a-utta�sita-earrings; karnikara-karnikara flowers; kandarpa-of cupid;
kallolinam-tossed by the waves; va���-of the flute; vadana-in the music; vavaduka-
eloquent; vadanam-whose mouth; vakr�-bhavat-crooked; �k�a�am-whose glance; bhagyam-
transcendental bliss; bhangura-madhyama�-the slender-waisted gop�s; parinatam-fully
manifested; ku�ja-the forest-grove; antare-within; bhejire-worshiped.

The top of His head kissed by a crown of peacock feathers, His garments the
color of gold, a kar�ik�ra flower in His ear, His heart swept away by waves of
amorous desire, the flute placed to His expert-musician lips, and His eyes
decorated with crooked sidelong glances, Lord K���a, whose form is the full
development of all transcendental bliss, was worshiped by the slender-waisted gop�s
in the forest of V�nd�vana.
-�r� J�vad�sa V�hin�pati

�r�-K���a-v�kyam
�r� K���a's Words

Text 291

du��a� ko 'p� karot� va� paribhava� sa�ke muhur gokule


dh�vantya� skhalad-ambara� ni�� vane y�ya� yad abhy�gat��
�� k� bh�tir amanda-d�nava-vadh�-sind�ra-mudr�-hare
dor-da��e mama bh�t� divyata pati-kro�e kura�g�-d��a�

dusta�-demon; kah ap�-some; karot�-does; va�-to you; paribhavan-harm; sa�ke-I


think; muhu�-repeatedly; gokule-in Gokula; dhavantya�-running; skhalat-falling;
ambaram-garments; nis�-in the night; vane-in the forest; yuyam-you; yat-because;
abhyagata�-come here; a�-aha!; ka-what?; bhiti�-fear; amanda-swift; danava-of the
demons; vadhu-of the wives; sindura-of red sindura; mudra-the mark; hare-removing;
do�-dande-arms; mama-My; bhat�-when manifested; divyata-all of you enjoy pastimes;
pat�-of your husband; krode-on the chest; kura�g�-d��a�-O doe-eyes girls.

All your garments became disarrayed as you ran here through the forest at
night. I think you must have been repeatedly attacked by some demon. Aha! What fear
can remain as long as My arms, which swiftly turn the demon's wives into widows,
are present. O doe-eyed girls, all of you go home and enjoy pastimes on the chest
of your husbands. I will take care of this demon.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 292

dh�tott�pe vahat� gahane dharma-p�re vraj�nta�


k� vas t���� balat� h�daye durmadeya� sat�n�m
s�mantinya� sp�hayata g�h�n m� viruddha� kurudhva�
n�ya� d���au mama vigha�ate hanta pu�yasya panth��

dhuta-shaken off; uttape-sufferings; vahat�-is manifested; gahane-in the


forest; dharma-pure-sacred; vraja-Vraja; anta�-within; ka-what; va�-of you; t���a-
thirst; balat�-is; h�daye-in the heart; durmada-impossible; iyam-this; satinam-of
pious, chaste girls; simantinya�-O girls; sprhayata-please desire; g�han-homes; ma-
don't; viruddham-sin; kurudhvam-do; na-not; ayam-this; d���au-in the sight; mama-of
Me; vighatate-is broken; hanta-indeed; punyasya-of piety; pantha�-the path.

What is the overwhelming thirst that troubles your hearts in this pleasent,
sacred forest of Vraja? O pious girls, please return to your homes. Do not sin.
Within My sight the path of religion will never be broken.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Note: These ambiguous words may also be translated:

"What is the overwhelming thirst that troubles your hearts in this pleasent,
sacred forest of Vraja? O pious girls, please do not return to your homes. Stay
here. Within My sight the path of religion is never broken."

Vraja-dev�n�m uttaram
The Reply of the Goddesses of Vraja

Text 293

katha� v�th�m asm�n upadi�as� dharma-pra�ayin��


pras�da sv�� �i�y�m ati-khala-mukh�m ��dh� mural�m
harant� mary�d�� �iva �iva pare pu�s� h�daya�
nayant� dh���eya� yaduvara yath� n�hvayat� na�

katham-why?; vithim-the path; asman-to us; upadisas�-You teach; dharma-


pra�ayinim-of religion; praside-be kind; svam-to Your own; si�yam-disciple; at�-
khala-mukhim-bad-mouthed; sadh�-order; muralim-the flute; harant�-removing;
maryadam-modesty; siva-alas!; siva-alas; apre-to the Supreme; pums�-Personality of
Godhead; h�daya�-the heart; nayant�-bringing; dhrsta-bold; ayam-it; yadu-of the
Yadu dynasty; vara-O best; yath�-as; na-not; ahvayat�-calls; na�-us.

Why do You teach us the path of religion? Be kind. Teach Your bad-mouthed
disciple, the flute. Alas! Alas! Your bold flute robs our modesty and carries our
hearts to the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Teach it not to call us here.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 294

gop�jan�li�gita-madhya-bh�ga�
ve�um dhamanta� bh��a-lola-netram
kalevare prasphu�a-roma-v�nd��
nam�m� k���a� jagad-eka-kandam

gop�jana-by the gop�s; ali�gita-embraced; madhya-bhagam-whose waist; ve�um-the


flute; dhamantam-playing; bhrsa-very; lola-restless; netram-whose eyes; kalevare-on
the body; prasphuta-standing up; roma-of hairs; v�nd�m-the multitude; nam�mi-I
offer my respectful obeisances; k���am-to Lord K���a; jagat-for the entire world;
eka-the only; vandam-worshippable Lord.

The gop�s arms around His waist, the hairs on His body standing up in joy, and
His eyes restlessly moving, K���a plays the flute. I bow down to offer my respects
to �r� K���a, the only worshipable Lord for the entire world.
-�r� Puru�ottamadeva

Text 295

k�lindy�� puline�u keli-kupitam uts�jya r�se rasa�


gacchant�m anugacchato '�ru-kalu�a� ka�sa-dvi�o r�dhik�m
tat-p�da-pratim� nive�ita-padasyodbh�ta-romodgatair
ak�u��o 'nunaya� prasanna-dayit�-d���asya pu���tu va�

kalindya�-of the Yamun�; puline�u-of the shores; kel�-pastimes; kupitam-angry;


utsrjya-abandoning; rase-in the rasa dance; rasam-nectar; gacchantim-going;
anugacchata�-following; a�ru-by tears; kalusam-polluted; ka�sa-dvi�a�-of Lord
K���a, the enemy of Ka�sa; r�dhik�m-�r�mat� R�dh�r���; tat-of Her; pada-pratima-the
footprints; nivesita-entered; padasya-whose feet; udbh�ta-roma-udgatai�-with hairs
standing up; ak�unna�-successful; anunaya�-entreaty; prasanna-pleased; dayita-of
the beloved; d���asya-seen; pusnatu-may bless; va�-you all.

With tears in Her eyes, angry R�dh�r��� left the nectarean pastimes of the
r�sa dance and fled to the Yamun�'s shore. His bodily hairs standing up, K���a
followed Her footprints. He eventually caught up with Her and obtained Her merciful
glance. May Lord K���a's successful appeal to Her bless you all.
-�r� Bha��a N�r�ya�a

�r� K����ntardh�ne t�s�m� pra�na�


Questions of the Gop�s During �r� K���a's Disappearance

Text 296

tulas� vilasas� tva� mall� j�t�s� phull�


sthala-kamalin� bh��gai� sa�gat��g� vibh�si
kathayata bata sakhya� k�ipram asm�su kasmin
vasat� kapa�a-kanda� kandare nanda-s�nu�

tulas�-O Tulasi; tvam-you; vilasas�-are very beautiful; tvam-you; mall�-O


jasmine flower; jata-manifested; as�-you are; phulla-blossoming; sthala-kamalin�-O
land-growin lotus; bhrngai�-with bees; sa�gata-accompanied; a�g�-body; vibhas�-you
are very splendid; kathayata-please tell; bata-ah; sakhya�-friends; k�ipram-
quickly; asmasu-among you all; kasmin-in which; vasat�-stays; kapata-of cheaters;
kanda�-the crest-jewel; kandare-cave; nanda-sunu�-K���a, the son of Maharaja Nanda.

O Tulas�, you are very beautiful. O jasmine vine, you are filled with splendid
blossoms. O land-growing lotus flower, you are very lovely with all these bumble-
bees. O friends, please tell me at once: In which cave did Nandanandana, the king
of cheaters, go?
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 297

d���a� kv�pi sa m�dhavo vraja-vadh�m �daya k��cid gata�


sarv� eva h� va�cit�� sakh� vaya� so 'nve�a��yo yadi
dve dve gacchatam ity ud�rya sahas� r�dh�� g�h�tv� kare
gop�-ve�a-dharo niku�ja-kuhara� pr�pto hari� p�tu va�

d���a�-seen; kva-where?; ap�-whether?; sa�-He; m�dhava�-K���a; vraja-of Vraja;


vadhum-a girl; �daya-taking; ka�cit-a certain; gata�-gone; sarva�-all; eva-
certainly; h�-indeed; va�cita�-are cheated; sakhi-O friend; vayam-us; sa�-He;
anvesaniya�-to be found; yad�-if; dve dve-two by two; gacchatam-should go; it�-
thus; udirya-speaking; sahasa-at once; r�dh�m-R�dh�; g�hitva-taking; kare-in hand;
gop�-of a gop�; vesa-the disguise; dhara�-wearing niku�ja-into the forest; kuharam-
in a cave; pr�pta�-attained; hari�-Lord K���a; patu-may protect; va�-you all.

"Did You see where M�dhava went? He took one vraja-girl and left. O friend, we
are all cheated."
"If you want to find K���a, then divide into groups of two and go everywhere
searching for Him."
Saying these words, K���a, disguised as a gop�, at once took R�dh�'s hand and
went with Her deep into the forest. May Lord K���a protect you all.
-Author Unkown

�r� R�dh�-sakh�-v�kyam
The Words of �r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Friend

Text 298

ado��d do��d v� tyajat� vipine t�� yad� bhav�n


abhadra� bhadra� v� vraja-kula-pate tva� vadatu ka�
ida� tu kr�ra� me smarat� h�daya� yat kila tay�
tvad-artha� k�nt�re kula-tilaka n�tm�pi ga�ita�

nayake-the thehero; yukta-proper; vadin�-speech; yath�-just as; padyavalyam-in


Padyavali; adosat-without any fault; dosat-with a fault; va-or; tyajat�-abandons;
vipine-in the forest; tam-Her; yad�-if; bhavan-You; abhadram-inauspiciousness;
bhadram-auspiciousness; va-or; vraja-kula-pate-O Prince of Vraja; tvam-You; vadatu-
may describe; ka�-who?; ida-this; tu-indeed; kruram-cruel; me-of me; smarat�-
remembers; h�dayam-heart; yat-which; kila-indeed; taya-by Her; tvat-Your; artham-
for the sake; k�ntare-in the dangerous forest; kula-of Your family; tilaka-O tilaka
marking; na-not; atma-Her own self; ap�-even; ganita�-was considered.

O prince of Vraja, who can say whether You are at fault or not at fault for
abandoning this girl? Who can say whether Your actions are auspicious or
inauspicious? Still, O tilaka-marking of Your family, my cruel heart remembers how
this girl entered the dangerous forest for Your sake, without caring for Her own
self.
-�r� R�macandra d�sa
Text 299

lak�m�� madhya-gatena r�sa-valaye vist�rayann �tmano


kast�r�-surabhir vil�sa-mural�-vinyasta-vaktrendun�
kr���-t���ava-ma��alena parito d���ena tu�yad-d���
tv�� hall��aka-�a�ku-sa�kula-pad� p�y�d vih�r� hari�

lak�m�n-splendor; madhya-in the middle; gatena-gone; rasa-of the rasa dance;


valaye-in the circle; vistarayan-displaying; atmana-personally; kastur�-with musk;
surabhi�-fragant; vilasa-with pastimes; mural�-the flute; vinyasta-placed; vaktra-
mouth; induna-with the moon; kr��a-pastimes; tandava-of enthusiastic dancing;
mandalena-with the circle; parita�-completely; d���ena-seen; tusyat-pleased; d��a-
by the glance; tvam-you; hall�k�aka-of the hallak�aka dance; sa�ku-sa�kula-
following the movements; pada-whose feet; payat-may protect; vihar�-enjoying
transcendental pastimes; hari�-Lord K���a.

Displaying His own splendor, Lord K���a appeared in the middle of the r�sa-
dance circle. He was fragant with musk, and the flute was placed to the moon of His
lips. The dancing gop�s gazed at Him and He glanced at them with pleasure. May Lord
K���a, who moved His feet in the r�sa-dance, protect you.
-author unknown

Tatra khecar���m ukti�


Words of the Demigods Observing the R�sa Dance From Their Airplanes in the Sky

Text 300

mukta-mun�n�� m�gya�
kim api phala� devak� phalati
tat p�layat� ya�od�
nik�mam upabhu�jate gopya�

mukta-liberated; muninam-by the sages; mrgyam-sought; kim ap�-a certain;


phalam-fruit; devak�-Devaki; phalat�-bore fruit; tat-that fruit; palayat�-protects;
yasoda-Yasoda; n�kamam-to their hearts content; upabhu�jate-eat; gopya�-the gop�s.

Devak� bore a precious fruit sought by the libearated sages, Ya�od� protected
that fruit, and now the gop�s taste that fruit to their hearts content.
-�r� Dak�i��tya

Text 301

tapta� tapobhir anyai�


phalita� tad gopa-b�l�n�m
�s�� yat kuca-kumbhe
n�la-nicolayat� brahma

taptam-performed austerities; tapobhi�-with austerities; anyai�-other;


phalitam-borne fruit; tat-therefore; gopa-balanam-of the young gop�s; asam-of them;
yat-because; kuca-of the breasts; kumbha-on the waterpot; n�la-nicolayat�-has
become a blue bodice; brahma-the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

The young gop�s must have performed many austerities and pious deeds in their
previous births so that the Supreme Personality of Godhead has now become a blue
garment covering their waterpotlike breasts.
-�r� Raghupat� Up�dhy�ya

Jala-kel�
Water Pastimes

Text 302

jala-keli-tar�la-kara-tala-
mukta-puna� pihita-r�dhik�-vadana�
jagad avatu koka-y�nor
vigha�ana-sa�gha�ana-kautuk� k���a�

jala-in the water; keli-pastimes; tarala-trembling; kara-of the hand; tala-


from the surface; mukta-released; puna�-again; pihita� covered; r�dhik�-of
R�dh�r���; vadana-face; jagat-the universe; avatu-may protect; koka-of cakravaka
birds; yuno�-of the youthful pair; vighatana-separating; sa�ghatana-and uniting;
kautuki-eager; k���o�-Lord K���a.

As a young cakrav�ka couple separates and then meets again, K���a, His palms
trembling in His water-pastimes, delights in covering and uncovering R�dh�'s face.
May Lord K���a protect the entire world.
-author unknown

Note: The male and female cakrav�ka birds associate during the day, but
separate again at night.

�r� R�dh�-sakh�� prat� candr�val�-sakhy�� s�s�ya-v�kyam


Jealous Words From Candr�val�'s Friend to R�dh�r���'s Friend

Text 303

m� garvam udvaha kapola-tale cak�sti


k���a-sva-hasta-likhit� nava-ma�jar�t�
any�pi ki� na sakh� bhajanam id���n��
vair� na ced bhavat� vepathur antar�ya�

ma-don't; garvam-proud; udvaha-be; kapola-of the cheek; tale-on the surface;


cakast�-is manifested; k���a-by K���a; sva-with His own; hasta-hand; likhita-
drawn; nava-a new; ma�jar�-flower blossoms; it�-thus; anya-another; ap�-even; kim-
whether; na-not; sakhi-O friend; bhajanam-object; id��inam-of those like this;
vair�-the enemy; na-not; cet-if; bhavat�-is; vepatha�-trembling; antaraya�-
obstacle.

My friend, please do not be too puffed up because K���a has decorated Your
forehead with His own hand. It many be that K���a is yet attracted by some other
beautiful girl. I see that the decoration on Your forehead is very nicely made, and
so it appears that K���a was not too disturbed in painting it. Otherwise, He could
not have painted such exact lines!*
-�r� D�modara

�r� R�dh�-sakhy�� s�k�ta-v�kyam


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Friend's Words, Which Contain a Hidden Meaning

Text 304

yad-avadh� gokulam abhita�


samajani kusuma-cit�sana-�re��
p�t��suka-priyeya�
tad-avadh� candr�val� j�t�

yat-avadh�-when; gokulam-in Gokula; abhita�-everywhere; samaj�ni-is born;


kusuma-with flowers; cita-filled; asana-of priyara trees; sren�-a host; pita-of
yellow; a�suka-garments; priya-fond; iyam-this; tat-avadh�-then; candra-of moons;
aval�-a multitude; jata-is born.

When the priy�ra trees bloom everywhere in Gokula, their flowers are like a
host of moons decked in yellow garments.
-�r� Govardhan�c�rya

Note: The second meaning hidden in these ambiguous words is:


"When the priy�ra trees bloom everywhere in Gokula, then Candr�val� becomes
dear to Lord K���a, who wears yellow garments."

The second meaning implies that Candr�val� is not beautiful by herself, but
only is beautiful when surrounded by beautiful things, such as priy�ra flowers.

G�ndharv�m� prat� sakh�-v�kyam


A Gop�-friend's Words to �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 305

saujanyena va��-k�ta vayam atas tva� ki�cid �cak�mahe


k�lind�m yad� y�s� sundar� punar m� g�� kadamb��av�m
ka�cit tatra nitanta-nirmal�tama-stomo 'st� yasmin man�g
lagne locana-s�mn� notpala-d��a� pa�yant� patyur g�ham

saujanyena-by friendship; vas�-conquered; k�ta�-are; vayam-we; ata�-therefore;


tvam-to you; ki�cit-something; acak�mahe-we will say; kalindam-to the Yamuna�
River; yad�-if; yas�-You go; sundar�-O beautiful girl; puna�-again; ma-don't; aga�-
go; kadamba-of kadamba trees; atavim-to the forest; kascit-a person; tatra-there;
nitanta-great; nirmala-splendid; tama-darkness; stoma�-an abundance; ast�-is;
yasmin-in which; manak-slightly; lagne-touching; locana-of the eyes; simn�-in the
corner; na-not; utpala-d��a�-lotus-eyed girls; pa�yant�-see; patyu�-of their
husband; g�ham-the home.

We are conquered by Your friendship. For this reason we will tell You
something. O beautiful one, if You go again to the Yamun�, don't go to the kadamba
forest. In that place is a great splendid darkness. When that darkness even lightly
touches the corner of a young girls lotus eyes, she is never again able to see her
husband's house.
-�r� Govinda Bha��a

Text 306

�y�mo 'ya� divasa� payoda-pa�alai� s�ya� tath�py utsuk�


pu�p�rtha� sakh� y�s� yamun�-ta�a� y�h� vyath� k� mama
kint� eka� khara-ka��haka-k�atam urasy �lokya sadyo 'nyath�
�a�ka� yat ku�ila� kari�yat� jano j�t�smi ten�kul�

�y�ma�-dark; ayam-this; divasa�-day; payoda-of clouds; patalai�-with a host;


sayam-at sunset; tath� ap�-still; utsuka-eager; pu�pa-of flowers; artham-for the
purpose; sakhi-O friend; yas�-You are going; yamun�-of the Yamun�; tatam-to the
shore; yah�-go; vyath�-distress; ka-what?; mama-my; kintu-however; ekam-one; khara-
deep; ka��haka-k�atam-scratches; uras�-on the breast; alokya-seeing; sadya�-at
once; anyath�-otherwise; �a�kam-fear; yat-because; kutila�-a crooked; kari�yat�-
will do; jana�-man; jata-manifested; asm�-I am; tena-for this reason; akula-
agitated.

The whole day has been dark with clouds. And now, at sunset, You are eager to
go to the Yamun�'s shore for flowers. Go ahead. What is my distress? When I see the
deep thorn-scratches on Your breast I become afraid some crooked man will attack
You.
-�r� Kar�ap�ra

Text 307

gantavy� te manas� yamun� vartate cet tad�n��


ku�ja� m� g�� sahaja-sarale v��jula� mad-vacobhi�
gacches tatr�py ahaha yad� v� m� mur�rer ud�re
kutr�py ek� rahas� mural�-n�dam �kar�ayeth��

gantavya-to be gone; te-by you; manas�-in the heart; yamun�-the Yamun�;


vartate-is; cet-if; tadanim-then; ku�jam-the grove; ma-don't; ga�-go; sahaja-
sarala-O honest girl; va�julam-of asoka trees; mat-my; vacobhi�-by the words;
gacche�-You go; tatra-there; ap�-even; ahaha-aha!; yad�-if; va-or; ma-don't;
murare�-of K���a; udare-O noble girl; kutra ap�-somewhere; eka-alone; rahas�-in a
secluded place; mural�-of the flute; nadam-the sound; �kar�ayetha�-hear.

O pious girl, if in Your heart You wish to go to the Yamun�, then please
follow my advice and don't go to the a�oka grove, or if You go there, don't go
alone and listen to the sound of K���a's flute in that secluded place.
-�r� Tairabhukta Kavi

Text 308

tarale na kuru vilamba�


kumbha� sambh�tya mandira� y�hi
y�van na mohana-mantra�
�a�sat� ka�sa-dvi�o va���

tarale-O restless girl; na-don't; kuru-do; vilambam-delay; kumbham-jar;


sambh�tya-taking; mandiram-home; yah�-go; y�vat-when; na-not; mohana-charming;
mantram-spell; sa�sat�-speak�; ka�sa-dvi�a�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of Ka�sa;
va���-the flute.

O restless girl, don't delay. Fill Your jar and go home while K���a's flute
does not recite it's mantra charm.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 309

p���hena n�pam avalambya kalindaj�y��


k�le vil�sa-mural�� kva�ayan mukunda�
pr�k p�ra��t kalasam ambhas� lolayanty�
vaktra� vivartayat� gopa-kul��gan�y��

prsthena-behind; nipam-a kadamba tree; avalambya-staying; kalindajaya�-of the


Yamun�; kule-on the shore; vilasa-pastime; muralim-flute; kvanayan-playing;
mukunda�-K���a; prak-before; pura�at-filling; kalasam-the jar; ambhas�-in the
water; lolayantya-moving; vaktram-face; vivartayat�-causes to turn; gopa-kula-
a�ganaya�-of the gop�.

Hiding behind a kadamba tree to the Yamun�'s shore, and suddenly beginning to
play His pastime-flute, Lord Mukunda made the gop� dipping her jar in the water
turn her face.
-author unknown

Text 310

sakhyo yayur g�ham aha� kalas�� vahant�


p�r�am at�va-mahat�m anulambit�smi
ek�kin�� sp��as� m�� yad� nanda-s�no
mok�y�mi j�vanam ida� sahas� puras te

sakhya�-gop�-friends; yayu�-have gone; g�ham-home; aham-I; kalasim-far;


vahant�-carrying; purnam-full; ativa-very; mahatim-big; anulambita-left behind;
asm�-I am; ekakinim-all alone; sprsas�-You touch; mam-Me; yad�-if; nanda-suno-O son
of Nanda Maharaja; mok�y�mi-I will give up; j�vanam-life; idam-this; sahasa-at
once; pura�-inthe presence; te-of You.

My gop�-friends have already gone home and I am left behind carrying this big,
full jar. O son of Nanda, if You touch Me now that I am all alone, I will
immediately give up this life in Your presence.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

T�� prat� kasy��cid ukti�


One Gop�'s Words to Her

Text 311

valganty� vana-m�lay� tava h�ta� vak�ojayo� candana�


ga��a-sth� makar�-gha�� ca makar�ndolena vidhva��it�
kl�nt� svaira-tara�ga-kelibhir iya� tanv� ca dh�rte tanu�
satya� jalpas� bh�nuj�m abh� rase magn�dya har��d abh��

valgantya-moving; vana-malaya-by the garland of forest-flowers; tava-of You;


h�tam-removed; vak�ojayo�-on the breasts; candanam-sandalwood paste; ganda-stha-on
the cheek�; makar�-ghata-tilaka pictures of sharks; ca-also; makara-of the shark-
shaped earrings; andolena-by the swinging; vidhva���ta-destroyed; klanta-fatigued;
svaira-independent; tara�ga-waves; kelibhi�-by pastimes; iyam-this; tanv�-slender;
ca-also; dhurte-O rascal gop�; tanu�-body; satyam-the truth; jalpas�-You say;
bhanujam-the Yamun�; abh�-in; rase-the nectar water; magna-plunged; adya-now;
harsat-out of joy; abhu�-You are.

"The moving forest-flower garland must wave wiped the sandalwood paste from
Your breasts and the movements of the shark-shaped earrings must have destroyed the
pictures of sharks drawn on Your cheeks."
"O rascal gop�, this slender body was washed of these things by the water's
playful waves."
"You speak the truth. Even now You are jubilantly submerged in the nectar
waters of the Yamun�."
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Note: In this verse a gop�-friend accuses �r�mat� R�dh�r��� of enjoying


pastimes with K���a. The gop� says that the sandalwood paste on R�dh�r���'s breasts
must have been wiped away by Lord K���a's flower garland when He embraced Her, and
the picture of the sharks drawn on R�dh�r���'s cheeks must have become destroyed by
K���a's shark-shaped earrings when He kissed Her. R�dh�r��� then defends Herself,
saying that the sandalwood paste and shark-pictures were washed away when She
bathed in the Yamun�. The gop� is reluctant to believe it.

Candr�val�� prat� tasy� v�kyam


This Gop�'s Words to Candr�val�

Text 312

katy�yan�-kusuma-k�manay� kim artha�


k�nt�ra-kuk�i-kuhara� kutuk�d gat�si
pa�ya stana-stabakayos tava ka��ak��ka�
gopa� suka��h� bata pa�yat� j�ta-kopa�

katyay�ni-for goddess Katyayani; kusuma-for flowers; kamanaya-with a desire;


kim artham-why?; k�ntara-kuk��-kuharam-deep into the forest; kutukat-eagerly; gata
as�-you are going; pa�ya-look; stana-stabakayo�-on the breasts; tava-your; k�ntaka-
a�kam-the scratches; gopa�-the cowherd man; su-ka��h�-O girl with the beautiful
neck; bata-indeed; pa�yat�-stares; jata-manifested; kopa�-anger.

Why are you eagerly going into the deep, dark forest to pick flowers for
goddess Katy�yan�? Look! O beautiful-necked girl, your gopa-husband is angrily
staring at the scratches on your breasts.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Tad-bhart�ra� prat� sakh�-v�kyam


That Gop� Friend's Words to Candr�val�'s Husband

Text 313

subhaga mama priya-sakhy��


kim iva sa-�a�ka� muhur vilokayasi
yamun�-pavana-vik�r�a-
priyaka-raja�-pi�jara� p���ham

subhaga-O handsome one; mama-my; priya-sakhya�-of the dear friend; kim-why?;


iva-like; sa-with; �a�kam-fear; muhu�-continually; vilokayas�-you stare; yamun�-
from the Yamun�; pavana-by the breeze; vikirna-spread; priyaka-from the priya�ga
vines; raja�-from the pollen; pinjaram-yellow; prstham-back.

O handsome one, why do you suspiciously stare at my dear friend's back, now
yellow from the priy��gu flower pollen blown by the Yamun� breeze?
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Note: Candr�val�'s back is yellow because she enjoyed pastimes with Lord K���a
on a bed of flowers.

Nitya-l�l�
Eternal Pastimes

Text 314

v�nd�vane mukundasya
nitya-l�l� vir�jate
spa��am e�� rahasyatv�j
j�nadbhir api nocyate

v�nd�vane-in V�nd�vana; mukundasya-of Lord K���a; nitya-eternal; l�l�-


pastimes; virajate-are manifested; spastam-clearly; esa-these pastimes;
rahasyatvat-because of being confidential; janadbhi�-by those who know; ap�-even;
na-not; ucyate-are described.

Lord Mukunda's eternal pastimes are manifested even now in V�nd�vana. Because
these pastimes are very confidential, they are not clearly described by they who
know of them.

Note: The authorship of texts 31�-31� is not given in the original.

Text 315

t�bhir nitya-vih�ram eva tanute v�nd�vane m�dhavo


go��h�mbhoja-mukh�bhir ity abh� man�k proce priy�ya� hara�
l�l�-ratna-rahasyat� vraja-pater bh�yasy aho pa�ya yat
tattva-j�o 'p� purantare ca gamanam� vy�ca��a vaiy�saki�

tabhi�-with them; nitya-eternal; viharam-pastimes; eva-certainly; tanute-


performs; v�nd�vane-in V�nd�vana; m�dhava�-K���a; go��ha-of Vraja; ambhoja-mukhi�-
with the lotus-faced girls; it�-thus; abh�-in this matter; manak-slightly; proce-
explained; priyaya�-to his dear wife; hara�-Lord Siva; l�l�-of pastimes; ratna-of
the jewel; rahasyata-the secretness; vraja-pate�-of Lord K���a, the king of Vraja;
bhuy�ni-great; aho-ah!; pa�ya-look; yat-because; tattva-the truth; j���-
understanding; ap�-although; pura-Mathur� City; antare-within; ca-also; gamanam-
going; vyacasta-described; vaiyasaki�-Vyasa's son Sukadeva Gosvami.

Lord �iva hinted to his wife P�rvat� that Lord M�dhava eternally enjoys
pastimes with the lotus-faced gop�s in V�nd�vana. Because these jewel-pastimes are
a very great secret, Vy�sa's son �ukadeva Gosv�m�, who knows the actual truth,
described Lord K���a's entrance into Mathur� City.

Text 316

tath� h� p�dme p�rvatyai


vyajah�ra haro raha�
go-gopa-gopik�-sa�ge
yatra kr��at� ka�sah�

tath� h�-furthermore; padme-in Padma Pura�a; parvatya�-to Parvati; vyajahara-


said; hara�-Lord Siva; raha�-privately; go-of the cows; gopa-gopas; gop�ka-and
gop�s; sa�ge-in the association; yatra-where; kr��at�-enjoys pastimes; ka�saha-Lord
K���a, the killer of Ka�sa.

In the Padma Pur��a Lord �iva privately said to P�rvat�: "Lord K���a, the
killer of Ka�sa, eternally enjoys pastimes in V�nd�vana with the cows, gopas, and
gop�s.

Praka�a-l�l�nus�re�a bh�vin� harer mathur�-prasth�ne r�dh�-sakh�-v�kyam


Words of �r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Gop� Friend As In His Manifest Pastimes K���a Is About
To Leave for Mathura� City

Text 317

adyaiva yat pratipad-udgata-candralekha-


sakhya� tvay� vapur ida� gamita� var�ky��
k���e gate kusuma-s�yaka tat prabh�te
b���vali� kathaya kutra vimok�yas� tvam

adya-now; eva-certainly; yat-which; pratipat-on the first day; udgata-risen;


candra-lekha-with the crescent moon; sakhyam-friendship; tvay�-by you; vapu�-body;
idam-this; gamitam-made to go; varakhya�-of the insignificant girl; k���e-when
K���a; gate-has gone; kusuma-sayaka-O cupid, who shoots flower-arrows; avalim-a
host; kathaya-tell; kutra-where?; vimok�yas�-will release; tvam-you.

O K�madeva, you have given this lowly girl's body friendship with the new
moon. Tell me, after K���a leaves at sunrise, where will you shoot your arrows?
-�r� Rudra

Note: Anxious because of K���a's imminent departure, R�dh� has become thin and
pale as the new moon.

�r� R�dh�-vakya�
Words of �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 318

prasth�na� valayai� k�ta� priya-sakhair asrair ajasra� gata�


dh�ty� na k�a�am �sita� vyavasita� cittena gantu� pura�
gantu� ni�cita-cetas� priyatame sarve sama� prasthite
gantavye sat� j�vita priya-suh�t s�rtha� katha� tyajyate

prasthana-going; valayai�-by the bracelets; k�tam-down done; priya-dear;


sakhai�-with friends; asrai�-tears; ajasram-continually; gatam-gone; dh�tya-with
peacefulness; na-not; k�a�am-for a moment; asitam-seated; vayasitam-is; cittena-
with the heart; gantum-to go; pura�-in the presence; gantum-to go; niscita-
determined; cetas�-in heart; priyatame-beloved; sarve-all; samam-with; prathita�-
set own; gantavye-about to go; sat�-when He is; j�vita-O life; priya-dear; suh�t-
friend; sa-artham-genuinely; katham-how is it possible?; tyajyate-is abandoned.

The bracelets repeatedly slide from My wrists. My tears fall without


interruption. Peacefulness will not sit in My heart for even a moment. In His heart
My beloved has decided to go. Everyone has come. Now He is about to go. O My life,
how can My dear friend be abandoned?
-�r� Amaru

Harer mathur�-prave�e tatr�y�n�m autsukyam


The Eagerness of the Citizens When Lord K���a Entered Mathur�

Text 319

ch�y�pi locana-patha� na jag�ma yasy��


seya� vadh�r nagara-madhyam ala�karoti
ki� c�kalayya mathur�-nagare mukundam
andho 'p� bandhukara-datta-kara� pray�ti

chaya-shadow; ap�-even; locana-of the eyes; patham-the path; na-not; jagama-


went; yasy��-of whom; sa-iyam-vadhu�-a girl; nagara-of the city; madhyam-the
middle; ala�karot�-decorates; kim ca-furthermore; akalayya-learning; mathure-of
Mathur�; nagare-in the city; mukundam-Lord Mukunda; andha�-blind; ap�-although;
bandhukara-a bandhukara flower; datta-placed; kara�-in the hand; prayat�-goes.

A blind girl, on the path of whose eyes even the shadow of a form never
entered, decorated the city of Mathur�. When she heard that Mukunda had entered the
city, she at once took a bandhukara flower offering in her hand, and went to meet
him.
-�r� V���vil�sa

Tatra pura-str���� v�kya�


Words of the Women of Mathur� When Lord K���a Entered the City

Text 320

asram ajasra� moktu�


dhi� na� kar�ayate nayane
dra��avya� parid���a�
tat kai�ora� vraja-str�bhi�

asram-tears; ajasram-continually; moktum-to shed; dhik-fie!; na�-on our;


kar�a-to the ears; ayate-reaching; nayane-eyes; drastavyam-to be seen; parid���am-
seen; tat-that; kaisoram- ; vraja-of Vraja; stribhi�-by the girls.
Fie on our large beautiful eyes reaching to our ears! By continually shedding
tears they interrupt our vision of the young man the girls of Vraja saw.
-�r� Tairabhukta Kavi

Text 321

s�ndr�nandam anantam avyayam aja� yad yogino 'p� k�a�a�


s�k��t kartum up�sate pratidina� dhy�naika-t�n�� param
dhany�s t� vraja-v�sin�� yuvatayas tad brahma y�� kautuk�d
�li�gant� sam�lapant� �atadh� kar�ant� cumbant� ca

sandra-intense; �nandam-bliss; anantam-limitless; avyayam-imperishable; ajam-


unborn; yat-which; yogina�-the yogis; ap�-even; k�a�am-for a moment; sak�at-kartum-
to directly see; upasate-worship; pratidinam-every day; dhyana-ekatana�-fortunate;
ta�-they; vraja-of Vraja; vasinam-of the residents; yuvataya�-the young girls; tat-
that; brahma-Brahman; ya�-who; kautukat-happily; alingant�-embrace; samlapant�-
speak with; satadha-hundreds of times; karsant�-pull; cumbant�-kiss; ca-and.

The same intensely blissful, limitless, eternal, unborn Supreme Brahman, whom
the yog�s worship in a trance of meditation in order to directly see for a moment,
was completely conquered by the fortunate young girls of Vraja. Hundreds of times
they happily spoke with Him, kissed Him, and embraced Him.
-�r� V�hin�pati

Text 322

priya-sakh� na jag�ma v�ma-��la�


sphu�am amun� nagare na nanda-s�nu�
adalita-nalin�-dalaiva v�pi
yad ahata-pallava eva k�nan�nta�

priya-O dear; sakhi-friend; na-did not; jagama-go; vama-handsome; sila�-by


nature; sphutam-clearly; amuna-with him; nagare-in the town; na-not; nanda-of Nanda
Maharaja; sunu�-the son; adalita-unblossomed; nalin�-lotus; dala-petals; eva-
certainly; vap�-the lake; yat-because; ahata-unblossomed; pallava�-flower; eva-
certainly; kanana-the forest; anta�-in.

O dear friend, the lotus flowers in the lake remain with petals unopened, and
the flowers in the forest refuse to blossom. From this I can understand that the
handsome son of Mah�r�ja Nanda has not yet returned to Vraja Village.
-�r� Kum�ra

�r� R�dh�y� vil�pa�


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Lament

Text 323

y�sy�m�t� samudyatasya vacana� vi�rabdham �kar�ita�


gacchan d�ram upek�ito muhur asau vy�v�tya pa�yann api
tac ch�nye punar �gat�smi bhavane pr��as ta eva sthit��
sakhya� pa�yata j�vita-pra�ayin� dambh�d aha� rodimi

yasy�mi-I will go; it�-thus; samudyatasya-about to go; vacanam-the statement;


visrabdham-peacefully; �kar�itam-heard; gacchan-going; duram-far away; upek�ita�-
ignored; asau-He; vyav�tya-hiding; pa�yan-looking; ap�-although; tat-then; sunye-in
the empty; puna�-again; agata asm�-I went; pra�a�-life-breathing; ta�-they; eva-
certainly; sthita�-staying; sakhya�-O friends; pa�yata-look!; j�vita-of life;
pra�ayin�-fond; dambhat-bypocritically; aham-I; rodim�-cry.
When K���a was about to leave, and I heard Him say, "Now I will go." I
remained peaceful. As He was leaving He continually fixed His eyes on Me, even from
a distance, and I responded by ignoring Him and turning from Him. When I returned
to My empty house, the breath was still present in My body. O friends, look! I, who
love only My own life, am pretending to cry.
-�#r� Rudra

Text 324

gato y�mo gatau y�mau


gat� y�m� gata� dinam
ha hanta kim kari�y�mi
na pa�y�mi harer mukham

gata�-gone; yama�-one yama (a period to three hours); gatau-gone; yamau-two


yamas; gata�-gone; yama�-more yamas; gatam-gone; dinam-the day; ha-alas!; hanta-
alas!; kim-what?; kari�y�mi-will I do; na-not; pa�y�mi-I see; hare�-of K���a;
mukham-the face.

Three hours have passed. Si� hours have passed. Nine hours have passed. The
day has passed. Alas! Alas! What will I do? I do not see K���a's face!
-�r� �a�kara

Text 325

yamun�-puline samutk�ipan
nata-ve�a� kusumasya kandukam
na puna� sakh� lokayi�yate
kapa��bh�ra-ki�ora-candram��

yamun�-of the Yamuna� River; puline-on the shore; samutk�ipan-tossing; nata-of


a dancer; vesa�-with the appearance; kusumasya-of a flower; kandukam-the bell; na-
not; puna�-again; sakhi-O friend; lokayi�yate-will be seen; kapata-treacherous;
abhora-cowherd; kisora-youth; candrama�-the moon.

O friend, the moon who pretends to be a young gopa will never again be seen
dancing and playing ball with a flower on the Yamun�'s shore.
-�r� Sa��h� d�sa

Text 326

y�� pa�yant� priya� svapne


dhany�s t�� sakh� yo�ita�
asm�kan tu gate k���e
gat� nidr�pi vairi��

atha-now; jagara�-insomnia; yath�-just as; padyavalyam-in Padyavali; ya�-those


girls who; pa�yant�-see; priyam-their beloved svapne-in dream; dhanya�-fortunate;
ta�-they; sakhi-O friend; yosita�-women; asm�kam-of Us; tu-indeed; gate-gone away;
k���e-since Lord K���a has; gata-gone away; nidra-sleep; ap�-also; vairin�-enemy.

O My friend, girls who can see their lover in dreams are very fortunate. As
for Me, since K���a left, My enemy sleep has left Me for good.
-�r� Dhanya

Text 327

so 'ya� vasanta-samayo vipina� tat etat


so 'ya� niku�ja-vi�ap� nikhila� tad�ste
ha hanta kintu nava-n�rada-komal��go
n�lok� pu�pa-dhanu�a� pratham�vat�ra�

sah ayam-this; vasanta-spring; samaya�-time; vipinam-forest; tat etat-this;


sah ayam-this; niku�ja-of the forest; vitap�-the tree; nikhilam-everything; tada-
then; aste-is; ha-alas!; hanta-alas!; kintu-however; nava-a fresh; nirade-
raincloud; komala-delicate; a�ga�-whose body; na-not; alok�-is seen; pu�pa-
dhanusa�-of cupid, who carries a bow of flowers; prathama-the first; avatara�-
incar�ation.

It is the same springtime. It is the same forest. It is the same tree.


Everything is the same as it was then, but, alas! Alas! That person whose delicate
body is splendid as a fresh raincloud, that person who is the first incarnation of
K�madeva, is nowhere to be seen.
-�r� Sa�jaya Kavi�ekhara

Text 328

yug�yita� nime�ena
cak�u�� pr�v���yitam
��ny�yita� jagat sarva�
govinda-virahe� me

yug�yitam-appearing like a great millennium; nime�ena-by a moment; cak�u��-


from the eyes; prav���yitam-tears falling like torrents of rain; ��ny�yitam-
appearing void; jagat-the world; sarvam-all; govinda-from Lord Govinda, K���a;
virahe�a me-by My separation.

My Lord Govinda, because of separation from You, I consider even a moment a


great millennium. Tears flow from My eyes like torrents of rain, and I see the
entire world as void.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Text 329

dalat� h�daya� g��hodvega� dvidh� na tu bhidyate


vahat� vikala� k�yo m�rcha� na mu�cat� cetanam
jvalayat� tanum antar daha� karot� na bhasmas�t
praharat� vidhir marma-cched� na k�ntat� j�vitam

dalat�-breaks; h�daya�-heart; gadha-violently; udvegam-trebling; dvidha-in


two; na-not; tu-but; bhidyate-is broken; vahat�-carries; vikala�-wretched; kaya�-
body; murcham-the state of being stunned; na-does not; mu�cat�-abandon; cetanam-
consciousness; jvalayat�-burns; tanum-the body; anta�-within; daha�-fire; karot�-
does; na-not; bhasmasat0-into ashes; praharat�-attacks; vidhi�-fate; marma-the
vital part; ched�-cutting; na-does not; krntat�-cut; j�vitam-the life.

My trembling heart is torn, but will not break in two. My wretched body is
stunned, but will not lose consciousness. A fire burns in My body, but does not
turn it to ash. Fate wounds My heart, but will not destroy My life.
-�r� Bhavabh�ti

Text 330

bhramaya jalad�n ambho-garbh�n pramodaya c�tak�n


kalaya �ikhina� kekotka��h�n ka�horaya ketak�n
virahi�� jane m�rcha� labdhv� vinodayat� vyath�m
akaru�a puna� samj��-vy�dhi� vidh�ya kim �hase
bhramaya-move; jaladan-the clouds; ambha�-garbhan-filled with water;
pramodaya-delight; catakan-the cataka birds; kalaya-cause to sing; sikhina�-the
peacocks; keka-utka��han-calling out "keka"; kathoraya-make blossom; ketakan-the
ketaka flowers; virabhin�-separated from the beloved; jane-in the person; murdham-
unconsciousness; labdhva-attaining; vinodayat�-relieves; vyath�m-the pain; akaruna-
O merciless one; puna�-again; samj��-of consciousness; vyadhim-the disease;
vidhaya-giving; kim-why?; ihase-you endeavor.

O fate, go move the raincloud! Please the c�taka birds! Make the peacocks cry
"keka"! Make the ketak� flowers bloom! When a lover separated from his beloved
faints and loses consciousness, that drives away the pain. O merciless fate, why do
you again afllict him with the disese of consciouness?
-�r� Bhavabh�ti

Text 331

d���a� ketaki-dh�li-dh�saram ida� vyoma kram�d v�k�ita�


kacchanta� ca �il�ndhra-kandala-bh�ta� so�ha� kadamb�nil��
sakhya� samv��ut��ru mu�cata bhayam� kasm�n mudhaiv�kul�
et�n apy adhun�smi vajra-gha�it� n�na� sahi�ye ghan�n

d���am-seen; ketak�-of jetak� flowers; dhul�-with the pollen; dhusaram-grey;


idam-this; vyoma-sky; kramat-one after another; v�k�ita�-seen; kaccha-anta�-the
shores of the Yamun�; ca-also; silindrhra-kandala-plaintain flowers; bh�ta�-
holding; sodha�-tolerated; kadamba-from the kadamba flowers; an�la�-the breezes;
sakhya�-O friends; samv��uta-supress; a�ru-tears; mu�cata-give up; bhayam-fear;
kasm�t-why?; mudha-without reason; eva-certainly; akula�-you are suffering; etan-
these; ap�-even; adhuna-now; asm�-I am; vajra-of thunderbolt; ghatita-made; nunam-
is it not?; sahi�ye-I will tolerate; ghanan-these hard things.

I have already seen the sky gray with ketak� pollen. I have seen the river's
shore filled with new banana flowers. I have already tolerated the breeze blowing
from the kadamba flowers. O friends, wipe your tears. Give up your anxiety. Why are
you unnecessarily pained? I am made of thunderbolts, I will be able to withstand
the ferocious attack of all these things.
-�r� Rudra

Text 332

seya� nad� kumudabandhu-karas ta eva


yad y�muna� ta�am ida� vipina� tad etat
te mallik�-surabhayo marutas tvam eva
he pra�a-vallabha sudurlabhat�� gato 'si

sa iyam-this; nad�-the river; kumukabandhu-of the moon; kara�-the shining; te-


this; eva-certainly; yat-which; yamun�m-of the Yamuna� River; tatam-the shore;
idam-this; vipinam-forest; tat etat-this; te-they; mallika-of mallika flowers;
surabhaya�-with the scent; maruta�-breezes; tvam-You; eva-certainly; ha-O; pra�a-
than life; vallabha-more dear; su-durlabhatam-the state of being very hard to
reach; gata�-attained; as�-You have.

This is the same river. This is the same moonlight. This is the same shore of
the Yamun�. This is the same forest. These are the same jasmine-scented breezes. O
love more dear to Me than life, You have now become unattainable for Me.
-�r� Har� Bha��a

Text 333

yadhun�tha bhavantam �gata�


kathayi�yant� kada mad-�laya�
yugapat parita� pr�dh�vit��
vikasadbhir vadanendu-ma��alai�

yadu-of the Yadu dynasty; bhavantam-You; agatam-have arrived; kathayi�yant�-


will tell; kada-when?; mat-My; alaya�-gop�-friends; yugapat-simultaneously;
parita�-from all directions; pr�dh�vita�-running; vikasadbhi�-with expanded;
vadana-faces; indu-of the moon; mandalai�-with the circles.

O Yadun�tha, when will My friends come running from all directions with full-
moon faces to tell Me that You have come?
-�r� Tairabhukta Kavi

Text 334

ay� d�na-day�rdra n�tha he


mathur�-n�tha kad�valokyate
h�daya� tvad-�loka-k�tara�
dayita bhramyat� ki� karomy aham

ayi-O my Lord; dina-on the poor; daya-�rdra-compassionate; n�tha-O master; he-


O; mathur�-n�tha-the master of Mathur�; kada-when; avalokyase-I shall see You;
h�dayam-my heart; tvat-of You; aloka-without seeing; kataram-very much aggrieved;
dayita-O most beloved; bhramyati-becomes overwhelmed; kim-what?; karomi-shall do;
aham-I.

O my Lord! O most merciful master! O master of Mathur�! When shall I see You
again? Because of not seeing You, my agitated heart has become unsteady. O most
beloved one, what shall I do now?*
-�r� M�dhavendra Pur�

Text 335

��aika-tantum avalambya vilambam�n�


rak��m� j�vam avadhir niyato yad� sy�t
no ced vidhi� sakala-loka-hitaika-k�r�
yat k�lak��am as�jat tad ida� kim artham

asa-of hope; eka-on a single; tantum-rope; avalambya-resting; vilambamana-


waiting; rak�as�-I protect; j�van-this life; avadhi�-time; niyata�-eternal; yad�-
if; syat-must be; na-not; u-indeed; vidhi�-the creator; sakala-all; loka-to people;
hita-welfare; eka-sole; kar�-doer; yat-which; kalakutam-deadly poison; asrjat-
created; tat-that; idam-this; kim artham-why?

If I must remain alive in this way, eternally hanging by a single thread of


hope, then why did the supremely benign creator �rahm� not create a deadly poison
(to save Me)?
-Raghun�tha d�sa

Text 336

c�t��kure sphurat� hanta nave nave 'smin


j�vo 'p� y�syatitar�� tarala-svabh�va�
kint� ekam eva mama du�kham abh�d analpa�
pr��e�vare�a sahito yad aya� na y�ta�

cuta-mango; a�kure-when the sprouts; sphurat�-appear; hanta-indeed; nave-new;


nave-new; asmin-in this; j�va�-life; ap�-even; yasyatitaram-about to depart;
tarala-fickle; svabhava�-by nature; kintu-however; ekam-sole; eva-certainly; mama-
My; duhkham-suffering; abh�t-has been; analpam-great; pra�a-of My life; isvare�a-
the Lord; sahita�-with; yat-because; ayam-this; na-not; yata�-gone.

When the mango trees begin to bloom, this fickle life becomes eager to depart.
The Lord of My life is not here. That alone is the intense pain that afflicts Me.
-�r� Ra�ga

Text 337

prathayat� na tath� mam�rtim uccai�


sahacar� ballava-candra-viprayoga�
ka�ubhir asura-ma��alai� par�te
danuja-pater nagare yath�sya v�sa�

prathayat�-manifests; na-not; tath�-in that way; mama-of Me; artim-suffering;


uccai�-greatly; sahacar�-O gop�-friend; ballava-of the gopas; candra�-from the
moon; viprayoga�-separation; katubhi�-cruel; asura-of demons; mandalai�-by the
hosts; parite-filled; danuja-of the demons; pate�-of the king; nagare-in the city;
yath�-just as; asya-of Him; vasa�-the residence.

O friend, I don't suffer because I am separated from K���a, the moon of the
gopas. I suffer because K���a is now in Ka�sa's city, which is filled with cruel
demons.
-�r� Raghun�tha d�sa

Text 338

prasara �i�ir�moda� kaunda� sam�ra sam�raya


praka�aya �a�inn ���� k�ma� manoja samullasa
avadhi-divasa� p�r�a� sakhyo vimu�cata tat-katham
h�dayam adhun� ki�cit kartum mam�nyad ihecchati

prasara-spread; sisira-O cool season; amodam-the fragance; kaundam-of the


jasmine flowers; samira-O breeze; samiraya-blow; prakataya-illuminate; sasin-O
moon; asa�-the directions; kamam-desire; manoja-O cupid; samullasa-arouse; avadh�-
these; divasa�-days; purna�-are over; sakhya�-O gop�-friends; vimu�cata-give up;
tat-of Him; katham-talk; h�dayam-heart; adhuna-now; ki�cit-something; kartum-to do;
mama-My; anyat-else; iha-here; icchat�-wishes.

"O �i�ira season, please spread the fragance of these jasmine flowers. O
breeze please blow nicely. O moon, please illuminate the directions. O K�madeva,
now you may arouse desire." Those days have passed. Friends, please give up talking
of Him. Now My heart wishes to do something else in this place.
-�r� Rudra

Text 339

nayat� ced yadu-pati� sakh� naitu k�ma�


pr��a� tad�ya-virah�d yad� y�ntu
eka� para� hr� mah�n mama vajra-p�to
bh�yo yad indu-vadana� na vilokita� tat

na-not; ayat�-comes; cet-if; yadu-of the Yadus; pati�-the king; sakhi- O


friend; na-not; etu-let Him come; kamam-of His own wish; pra�a�-life-breath;
tadiya-from Him; virahat-from the separation; yad�-if; yant�-goes; yantu-let it go;
eka�-one; param-afterwards; h�d�-in the heart; mahan-great; mama-My; vajra-pata�-
thunderbolt; bhuya�-again; yat-which; indu-vadanam-the moon of the face; na-not;
vilokitam-seen; tat-that.
O friend, if Yadupat� K���a will not come here, let Him not come. If, out of
separation from Him, My life-breath goes away, let it go. The fact that I will
never again see the moonlike face of K���a is a great thunderbolt striking My
heart.
-�r� Har� Bha��a

Text 340

pa�catvam� tanur etu bh�ta-nivaha� sv���e vi�antu sphu�a�


dh�t�ra� pra�ipatya hanta �iras� tatr�pi y�ce varam
tad-v�p��u payas tad�ya-mukure jyotis tad�y��ga�a-
vyomn� vyoma tad�ya-vartmani dhar� tat-t�la-v�nte 'nila�

pa�catvam-to death; tanu�-this body; etu-let go; bh�ta-of elements; nivaha�-


the group; sva-a�se-into their parts; visantu-may enter; sphutam-clearly; dhataram-
to the creator Brahma; pranipatya-bowind down; hanta-indeed; sirasa-with My head;
tatra ap�-still; tace-I beg; varam-for a benediction; tat-vapisu-in His lake;
paya�-the water; tadiya-in His; mukure-mirror; jyoti�-the fire; tadiya-in His;
a�gana-courtyard; vyomn�-in the space; vyoma-the space; tadiya-on His; vartm�ni-
pathway; dhara-the earth; tat-in His; tala-v��te-palm-leaf fan; an�la�-the air.

Let this body die. Let it's elements merge with the other elements. I bow My
head before the creator Brahm� and beg from Him the benediction that the water of
My body may enter the waters of K���a's lake, �y�ma-ku��a, the fire of My body may
enter K���a's mirror, the ether of My body may enter His courtyard, the earth in My
body may be placed before His path, and the air in My body may join the breeze
created by His palm-leaf fan.
-�r� S��m�sika

Text 341

��li�ya v� p�da-rat�� pina��u m�m


adar�an�n marma-hat�� karotu v�
yath� tath� v� vidadh�tu lampa�o
mat-pr��a-n�thas tu sa eva n�para�

��i�ya-embracing with great pleasure; v�-or; p�da-rat�m-who is fallen at the


lotus feet; pina�tu-let Him trample; m�m-Me; adar�an�t-by not being visible; marma-
hat�m-brokenhearted; karotu-let Him make; v�-or; yath�-as (He likes); tath�-so; v�-
or; vidadh�tu-let Him do; lampa�a�-a debauchee who mixed with other women; mat-
pr��a-n�tha�-the Lord of My life; tu-but; sa�-He; eva-only; na apara�-not anyone
else.

Let K���a embrace this maidservant, who has fallen at His lotus feet. Let Him
trample Me or break My heart by never being visible to Me. He is a debauchee, after
all, and can do whatever He likes, but He is still no one other than the
worshipable Lord of My heart.*
-�r� Caitanya Mah�prabhu

Mathur�y�� ya�od�� sm�tv� �r�-k���a-v�kyam


Remembering Mother Ya�od�, �r� K���a Spoke the Following Words in Mathur� City

Text 342

t�mb�la� sva-mukh�rdha-carcitam ita� ko me mukhe nik�iped


unmarga-pras�ta� ca c��u-vacanai� ko m�� va�e sth�payet
ehy eh�t� vid�ra-s�rita-bhuja� sv��ke nidh�y�dhun�
keli-srasta-�ikha��aka� mama punar vy�dh�ya badhn�tu ka�
tambulam-betel-nuts; sva-own; mukha-by the mouth; ardha-half; carcitam-chewed;
ita�-then; ka�-who?; me-My; mukhe-in the mouth; n�k�ipet-will place; unmarga-from
the right path; prasrtam-gone; ca-and; catu-with sweet; sthapayet-wil bring; eh�-
come; eh�-come; it�-thus; vidura-from far away; sarita-waving; bhuja�-his arms;
sva-own; a�ke-on the lap; nidhaya-placing; adhuna-now; kel�-by pastimes; srasta-
slipped; sikhandakam-peacock feather; mama-My; puna�-again; vyadhuya-loosening;
badhnata-will tie; ka�-who?

Now who will take half-chewed betelnuts from his own mouth and place them in
Mine? Now who will subdue Me with sweet words when I depart from the path of
righteousness? Now who will call: "Come! Come!" wave his arm, and place Me on his
lap? Now who will re-tie My peacock-feather when it falls because of My pastimes?
-�r� Tairabhukta Kavi

�r� R�dh�-sm�ty� harer v�kyam


Remembering �r�mat� R�dh�r���, Lord K���a Spoke the Following Words

Text 343

yad� nibh�tam ara�ya� prantara� v�py apantha�


katham api cira-k�la� pu�ya-p�kena lapsye
avirala-galad-asrair gharghara-dhv�na-mi�rai�
�a�imukh� tava �okai� pl�vayi�ye jaganti

yad�-if; nibh�tam-solitary; sranyam-a forest; prantaram-lonely path; va-or;


ap�-even; apantham-without a path; katham ap�-somehow; cira-for a long; kalam-time;
punya-of pious reactions; pakena-by the maturity; lapsye-I will attain; avirala-
ceaseless; galat-flowing; asrai�-with tears; gharghara-dhvana-with moans; misrai�-
mixed; sas�-mukh�-O moon-faced girl; tava-of You; sokai�-with lamentation;
plavayi�ye-I will flood; jagant�-the universes.

O moon-faced girl, because the reactions of My past deeds have become mature,
I walk on a solitary forest path, or away from the path, and I flood the universes
with My lamentations filled with loud moans and ceaselessly flowing tears for You.
-�r� Tairabhukta Kavi

Uddhava� prat� harer v�kyam


Lord K���a's Words to Uddhava

Text 344

vi�aye�u t�vad abal�s


t�s� api gopya� svabh�va-m�du-v�ca�
madhye t�s�m api s�
tasy�m api s�ci-v�k�ita� kim api

visaye�u-among the resident of Vraja; tavat-then; abala�-the women; tasu-among


them; ap�-also; gopya�-the gop�s; svabhava-naturally; m�du-of them; ap�-also; sa-
She; tasyam-in whom; ap�-also; sac�-crooked; v�k�itam-glances; kim ap�-something.

Among the vrajav�s�s the gop�s are the best, and their best quality is their
sweet words. Among the gop�s there is one who is the best, and Her best quality is
Her crooked sidelong glance.
-author unknown

Uddhavena r�dh�y�� hare� sande�a�


Lord K���a's Message to �r�mat� R�dh�r��� Delivered by Uddhava

Text 345
�virbh�va-dine na yena ga�ito hetus tan�y�n api
k�iyet�pi na c�par�dha-vidhin� naty� na yo vardhate
p�y��a-prativedita� tri-jagat�-du�kha-druha� s�mprata�
prem�as tasya guro� katha� nu karava� v��-ni��hat�-l�ghavam

avirbhava-of appearance; dine-on the day; na-not; yena-by which; ganita�-


counted; hetu�-cause; taniyan-the slightest; ap�-even; k�iyeta-is diminished; na-
not; ca-also; apar�dh�-vidhina-by offense; nytya-by prayers; na-not; ya�-which;
vardhate-increases; piyusa-nectar; prativedita�-giving; tr�-three; jagat�-of the
worlds; duhkha-of the sufferings; druha�-the enemy; sampratam-now; premna�-of love;
tasya-of that; guro�-intense; katham-how is it possible?; nu-indeed; karava�-I will
do; nak-of words; nisthata-faith; laghavam-lightness.

On the day We met Your love suddenly appeared without the slightest cause.
Your love is not diminished by My offenses, nor increased by My prayers. It is full
of nectar and it destroys the sufferings of the three worlds. How can I easily
describe Your intense love for Me?
-author unknown

Text 346

�st�� t�vad vacana-racan�bhajanatva� vid�re


d�re c�st�� tava tanu-par�rambha-sambh�van�pi
bh�yo bh�ya� pra�atibhir ida� kintu y�ce vidh�ya
sm�ra� sm�ra� svajana-ga�ane k�pi rekh� mam�pi

astam-let be; tavat-then; vacana-racana-bhajanatvam-conversation; vidure-far


away; dure-far away; va-or; astam-let be; tava-of You; tanu-of the body;
parirambha-of embraces; smabhavana-the possibility; ap�-also; bhuyat-again; bhuya�-
and again; pra�atibhi�-with obeisances; idam-this; kintu-however; yace-I beg;
vidheya-may be done; smaram� smaram-remembering again and again; svajana-among
friends; ganane-in the counting; ka ap�-some; rekha-line; mama-of Me; ap�-also.

The possibility of Our conversing is very distant. So be it! The possibility


of My embracing Your transcendental body is also distant. So be it! However, again
and again I bow down before You and beg: Please always count Me among Your friends,
and please write a line to Me.
-�r� Ke�ava Bha���c�rya

V�nd�vana� gacchata uddhavasya v�kyam


Uddhava's Words on Arriving in V�nd�vana

Text 347

iya� s� k�lind� kuvalaya-dala-snigha-madhur�


mad�ndha-vy�k�jat-tarala-jalara�ku-pra�ayi��
pur� yasy�s tire sa-rabhasa-sa-t���a� mura-bhido
gata� pr�yo gop�-nidhuvana-vinodena divas��

iyam-this; sa-this; k�lind�-the Yamuna� River; kuvalaya-lotus; dala-petals;


snigdha-glistening; madhura-charming; mada-with joy; andha-blinded; vyakujat-
warbling; tarala-restless; jalara�ku-of jalara�ku birds; pra�ayin�-the favorite
place; pura-formerly; yasy��-of which; tire-on the shore; sa-with; rabhasa-joy; sa-
with; t���am-thirst; mura-bhida�-of Lord K���a, the killer of Mura; gata�-spent;
praya�-for the most part; gop�-with the gop�s; nidhuvana-amorous; vinodena-with
pastimes; divasa�-the days.

This is the Yamun�, very beautiful with many blue lotus petals, and the
favorite place of restless, warbling jalara�ku birds blinded with happiness. On
this shore Lord K���a's days were mostly spent in passionate and blissful amorous
pastimes with the gop�s.
-�r� Da�aratha

Text 348

pureya� k�lind� vraja-jana-vadh�n�m stana-ta��-


tanu-r�gair bhinn� �abala-salil�bh�d anudinam
aho t�s�� nitya� rudita-galitai� kajjala-jalair
id�n�� y�te 'smin dvi-gu�a-malin�bh�n mura-ripau

pura-formerly; iyam-this; k�lind�-Yamuna� River; vraja-jana-vadhunam-of the


vraja-gop�s; stana-of the breasts; tat�-of the surface; tanu-of the bodies; ragai�-
with the musk ointment; bhinna-broken; sabala-spotted; sal�l�-the water; abh�t-
became; anudinam-every day; aho-ah!; tasam-of them; nityam-always; rudita-from
crying; galita�-fallen; kajjala-of mascara; jalai�-by the water; idanim-now; yate-
has gone; asmin-now that; dv�-guna-doubled; malina-dark; abh�t-has become; mura-
ripau-Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon.

In the past the Yamun� would every day become muddied with the black musk
anointing the vraja-gop�s bodies and breasts. Now that K���a has left the water is
twice as muddy, but this time with the mascara washed away by the gop�s constant
tears.
-�r� Sarv�nanda

Text 349

ida� tat k�lind�-pulinam iha ka�s�sura-bhido


ya�a�-���vad-vaktra-skhalita-kavala� gokulam abh�t
bhramad-ve�u-kv��a-�rava�a-mas��ott�ra-madhura-
svar�bhir gop�bhir di�� di�� samudgh�r�am ani�am

idam-this; tat-that; k�lind�-of the Yamuna� River; pulinam-the shore; iha-


here; ka�sasura-of Ka�sasura; bhida�-the killer; yasa�-the glories; srnvat-hearing;
vaktra-from the mouths; skhalita-fallen; kavalam-morsel; go-of cows; kulam-the
herd; abh�t-became; bhramat-wandering; ve�u-of the flute; kvana-the sound; sravana-
by hearing; masrna-glistening; uttara-wide open eyes; madhura-sweet; svarabhi�-with
the sounds; gop�bhi�-by the gop�s; dis� dis�-in all directions; samudghurnam-
trembling; anisam-day and night.

This is the shore of the Yamun�. In this place, when the cows heard the
glories of K���a, the grass fell from their mouths. When the gop�s in different
places heard the sweet sounds of K���a's flute, their beautiful eyes opened wide
and they trembled continually.
-�r� Mo�aka

Text 350

tabhyo namo ballava-vallabh�bhyo


y�s�� gu�ais tair abhicintyam�nai�
vak�a�-sthale ni��vasitai� kad-u��air
lak�m�-pater ml�yat� vaijayant�

tabhya�-to them; nama�-respectful obeisances; ballava-vallabhya�-to the gop�s;


yasam-of whom; gunai�-by the transcendental qualities; tai�-by them;
abhicintyamanai�-meditated; vak�a�-sthale-on the chest; nihsvasitai�-by the sighs;
kat-usnai�-warm; lak�m�-pate�-of Lord K���a, the husband of the goddess of fortune;
mlayat�-wilts; vaijayant�-the vaijayant� garland.
I offer my respectful obeisances to the gop�s. When K���a, the husband of the
goddess of fortune, remembers their transcendental qualities, His warm sighs wilt
the vaijayant� garland on His chest.
-author unknown

Vraja-dev�-kula� praty uddhava-v�kyam


Uddhava's Words to the Goddesses of Vraja

Text 351

viyogin�n�m api paddhati� vo


na yogino gantum api k�amante
yad dhyeya-r�pasya parasya pu�so
y�ya� gat� dhyeya-pada� dur�pam

viyogininam-separated from Lord K���a; ap�-even; paddhatim-the path; va�-of


you; na-not; yogina�-the yogis; gantum-to travel; ap�-even; k�amante-are able; tat-
by them; dhyeya-meditated upon; rupa�ya-whose form; parasya pumsa�-of the Supreme
Personality of Godhead; yuyam-you; gata�-have attained; dhyeya-of the object of
meditation; padam-the position; durapam-difficult to be achieved.

O gop�s separated from Lord K���a, even the great yog�s are not able to travel
your path. They meditate on the transcendental form of the Supreme Personality of
Godhead, but the Supreme Person meditates on you. This is your rare good fortune.
-author unknown

Uddhave d���e sakh�� prat� �r�-r�dh�-v�kyam


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Words to Her Gop�-friend On Seeing Uddhava

Text 352

kaly��a� kathay�mi ki� sahacar� svaire�u �a�vat pur�


yasy� n�ma sam�rita� mura-ripo� pr��e�var�t� tvay�
s�ha� prema-bhid� bhay�t priyatama� d���v�pi d�ta� prabho�
sandi���smi na vet� sa��ayavat� p�cch�mi no ki�cana

kalyana-auspiciousness; kathay�mi-I will tell; kim-what?; sahacar�-O friend;


svaire�u-among My rivals; sasvat-always; pura-previously; yasy��-of whom; nama-the
name; samiritam-spoken; mura-ripo�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon;
pra�a-of the life; isvar�-the queen; it�-thus; tvay�-by you; sa-She; aham-I; prema-
of love; bheda-breaking; bhayat-because of fear; priyatamam-most dear; d���va-
seeing; ap�-although; dutam-the messenger; prabho�-of the Lord; sandista-the
message spoken to; asm�-I am; na-not; va-or; it�-thus; sa�say�vat�-full of doubts
and fears; prcch�mi-I ask; na-not; u-indeed; ki�cana-anything.

O friend, what good thing will I tell you? You used to approach My rivals,
speak My name, and affirm that I was the queen of Lord K���a's life. Now when I see
this messenger I become afraid he will tell Me that K���a's love for Me has broken.
I refuse to hear his message. I will not ask him any question.
-�r� R�macandra d�sa

�r� R�dh�� praty uddhava-v�kyam


Uddhava's Statement to �r�mat� R�dh�r���

Text 353

malina� nayan�mbu-dh�ray�
mukha-candra� karabhoru m� kuru
karu�� varu��layo haris
tvay� bh�ya� karu��� vidh�syati

malinam-polluted; nayana-from Your eyes; ambu-of water; dharaya-with a stream;


mukha-of Your face; candram-the moon; karabha-uru-O girl with beautiful thighs; ma-
do not; kuru-do; karuna-of mercy; varunalaya�-an ocean; hari�-Lord K���a; tvay�-to
You; bhuya�-again; karunam-mercy; vidhasyat�-will give.

O beautiful-thighed R�dh�r���, don't stain Your moonlike face with these tears
from Your eyes. Lord Har�, who is an ocean of mercy, will be merciful to You
again."
-�r� Sa��h�vara d�sa

Uddhava� prat� r�dh�-sakh�-v�kyam


The Words of �r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Gop�-friend to Uddhava

Text 354

hastodare vinihitaika-kapola-p��er
a�r�nta-locana-jala-snapit�nan�y��
prasth�na-ma�gala-din�vadh� m�dhavasya
nidr�-lavo 'p� kuta eva saroruh�k�y��

hasta-of Her hand; udare-in the middle; vinihita-placed; eka-one; kapola-of


the cheek; pane�-the middle; asranta-ceaseless; locana-from the eyes; jala-water;
snapita-bathed; ananaya�-whose face; prasthana-of the departure; ma�gala-
auspicious; dina-day; avadh�-since; m�dhavasya-of K���a; nidra-of sleep; lava�-a
moment; ap�-even; kuta�-where?; eva-certainly; saroruha-ak�ya�-of this lotus-eyed
girl.

She rests a cheek on Her hand and bathes her face in continaul tears. Since
the auspicious day of K���a's departure, how what method could this lotus-eyed girl
employ to obtain even a moment's sleep?
-�r� Harihara

Text 355

ni�candan�ni va�ij�m api mandir��i


ni�pallav�n� ca dig-antara-k�nan�ni
ni�pa�kaj�ny api sarit-saras�-kul�ni
j�t�ni tad-viraha-vedanay� na ��ntam

ni�-candanas�-witout sandalwood; vanijam-of the vai�yas; ap�-even; mandir�ni-


the homes; ni�-pallav�ni-without flowers; ca-also; dik-antara-in all directions;
kanan�ni-the forests; ni�-pa�kaj�ni-without lotus flowers; ap�-also; sarit-of the
strea�s; saras�-kul�ni-the waters; jat�ni-manifested; tat-from Him; viraha-of
separation; vedanaya-by the torment; na-not; santam-peaceful.

There is no sandalwood incense in the homes of the vai�yas. There are no


flower in any forest. There are no lotuses in the waters of the rivers and streams.
Because of the torture of separation from K���a, no one is peaceful.
-�r� Harihara

Text 356

pr��as tva� jagat�� harer api pur� sa�keta-ve�u-svan�n


�d�ya vraja-subhruv�m iha bhav�n m�rgopade�e guru�
hamho m�thura-ni�ku��nila sakhe sampraty api �r�-pater
a�ga-spar�a-pavitra-��tala-tanus tr�t� tvam eko 's� na�
pra�a�-the life-breath; tvam-you; jagatam-of the universes; hare�-of Lord
K���a; ap�-also; pura-formerly; sa�keta-of the rendezvous; ve�u-of the flute;
svanan-the sounds; �daya-taking; vraja-subhruvam-of the beautiful-eyebrowed girls
of Vraja; iha-here; bhavan-you; marga-of the path; upadesa-in the teaching; guru�-
the teacher; hamho-O; mathura-of Mathur�; niskuta-of the garndens; anila-O breeze;
sakhe-O friend; samprat�-now; ap�-also; �r�-pate�-of Lord K���a, the husband of the
goddess of fortune; a�ga-of the body; sparsa-by the touch; pavitra-pure; sitala-
cool; tanu�-whose form; trata-the protector; tvam-you; eka�-alone; ap�-even; na�-of
us.

O breeze, you are the life-breath of all the universes. By picking up the
sound of K���a's flute and revealing the path to Him, you formerly became the
leader of the beautiful-eyebrowed girls of Vraja. O breeze from the gardens of
Mathur�, by touching the transcendental body of Lord K���a you have become very
pure and cool. At this moment you are our only protector.
-�r� R�macandra d�sa

R�dh�-sakhy� eva k���a-sande�a�


A Letter to K���a From R�dh�'s Gop�-friend

Text 357

tvad-de��gata-m�rutena m�dun� sa�j�ta-rom��cay�


tvad-r�p��kita-c�ru-citra-phalake santarpayanty� d��am
tvan-n�m�m�ta-sikta-kar�a-pu�ay� tvan-m�rga-v�t�yane
tanvy� pa�cama-g�ta-garbhita-gir� r�tran divam� sth�yate

tvat-Your desa-from the courtyard; agata-arrived; marutena-by the breeze;


m�duna-gentle; sa�jata-manifested; rima�caya-hairs standing up; tvat-Your; rupa-
form; a�kita-drawn; caru-beautiful; citra-phalake-in the picture; santarpayantya-
satisfying; d��am-Her eyes; tvat-Your; nama-of the name; am�ta-by the nectar;
sikta-sprinkled; kar�a-putaya-ears; tvat-Your; marga-path; vatayane-at the window;
tanvya-by the slender girl; pa�cama-in the fifth raga; fita-with songs; garbhita-
filled; gira-whose words; ratram-night; divam-and day; sthiyate-is stood.

The gentle breeze blowing from the place where You stay makes the hairs of Her
body stand up. She satisfies Her eyes by showing them the beautiful picture of Your
transcendental form. Her ears are sprinkled with the nectar of Your name. Her words
filled with songs in the fifth r�ga, day and night this slender girl stays by the
window overlooking the path where You might return.
-�r� Trivikama

Text 358

a�ge 'na�ga-jvara-huta-vaha� cak�u�� dhy�na-mudr�


ka��he j�va� kara-ki�alaye d�rgha-��y� kapola�
a�se ve�� ku�a-parisare candana� v�c� mauna�
tasy�� sarva� sthitam it� na ca tva� vin� kv�pi ceta�

ange-on the body; ana�ga-of cupid; jvara-of the fever; hutavaha�-the fire;
cak�us�-on the eyes; dhyana-of meditation; mudra-the mark; ka��he-on the throat;
j�va�-the life; kara-of the hand; kisalaye-the flower bud; dirgha-for a long time;
say�-resting; kapola�-the cheek; a�se-on the shoulders; ven�-braids; kuca-of the
breasts; parisare-in the aerea; candanam-sandalwood paste; vac�-on the words;
maunam-silence; tasya-of Her; sarvam-everything; sthitam-situated; it�-thus; na-
not; ca-and; tvam-You; vina-without; kva ap�-anywhere; ceta�-the heart.

Flames of amorous yearning burn in Her body. The mark of rapt meditation rests
in Her eyes. Her life rests in Her throat. Her cheek rests for a long time on Her
flower-bud hand. Her braid rests on Her shoulder. Sandalwood paste rests on Her
breasts. Silence rests in Her words. These things rest firmly in their places, but
Her heart and mind cannot rest anywhere without You.
-�r� K�emendra

Text 359

d���e candramas� pralupta-tamas� vyom��gana-stheyasi


sphurjan-nirmala-tejas� tvay� gate d�ra� nija-preyasi
�v�sa� kairava-korak�yat� mukha� tasy�� saroj�yati
k��rod�yat� manmatho d�g api ca dr�k candrak�nt�yati

d���e-when seen; candramas�-the moon; pralupta-removed; tamas�-the darkness;


vyoma-of the sky; a�gana-in the courtyard; stheyas�-staying; sphurjat-manifesting;
nirmala-splendid; tejas�-effulgence; tvay�-You; gate-ate gone; duram-far away;
nija-own; preyas�-beloved; svasa�-sighs; kairava-korakiyat�-become like a lotus
flower with its petals closed; k�irodiyat�-becomes like an ocean of milk;
manmatha�-amorous desire; drk-eyes; ap�-also; drak-at once; candrak�ntiyat�-become
candrak�nta jewels.

When She sees that You, Her beloved, the splendid moon that dispells the
darkness in the courtyard of the sky, have gone far away, Her sighs become like
lotus buds, Her face becomes like a lotus flower with petals closed, Her love for
You becomes like a churning ocean of milk with great waves, and Her eyes become
like two melting candrak�nta jewels.
-�r� Bh�ma Bha��a

Text 360

asy�� sad� viraha-vahni-�ikh�-kal�pa-


tapte sthito 's� h�daye tvam iha priy�y��
pr�leya-��kara-same h�d� te mur�re
r�dh� k�a�a� vasat� naiva kad�pi dh�rte

asy��-of Her; sada-always; viraha-of separation; vahn�-of fire; sikha-of


flames; kalapa-by the multitude; tapte-heated; sthita�-situated; as�-are; h�daye-in
the heart; tvam-You; iha-here; priyaya�-of the beloved; praleya-sikara-to snow;
same-equal; h�d�-in the heart; te-of You; mura-are-O K���a, the enemy of the Mura
demon; r�dh�-R�dh�; k�a�am-for a moment; vasat�-resides; na-not; eva-certainly;
kada ap�-ever; dhurta-O cheater.

O cheater K���a, You eternally stay in Your lover R�dh�'s heart, which burns
with flames of separation from You. Still, R�dh� cannot stay for even a moment in
Your heart, which is as cool as ice and snow.
-�r� �a�kara

Text 361

asy�s t�pam aha� mukunda kathay�my e��-d��as te katha�


padminy�� sa-rasa� dala� vinihita� yasy�� sa-t�pe h�di
�dau �u�yat� sa�kucaty anu tata� c�r�atvam �padyate
pa�c�n murmurat�m� dadhad dahat� ca �v�s�vadh�ta� �ikh�

asy��-of Her; tapam-the suffering; aham-I; mukunda-O K���a; kathay�mi-will


describe; en�-d��a�-of the doe-eyes girl; te-to You; katham-how?; padminya�-of a
lotus flower; sa-rasam-beautiful; dalam-petal; vinihitam-placed; yasy��-of whom;
sa-tape-burning; h�d�-on the heart; adau-at first; susyat�-dries up; sa�kucat�-
shrivels; anu-then; tata�-then; curnatvam-the state of being powder; apadyate-
attains; pascat-then; murmuratam-a fire made from burning chaff; dadhat-places;
dahat�-burns; ca-also; svasa-by sighs; avadhuta�-fanned; sikh�-the flame.

O Mukunda, how will I describe the sufferings of this doe-eyed girl? Her sighs
constantly fan the flames of Her suffering. When a beautiful lotus petal is placed
on Her burning breast it first become dried, then shriveled, then turns to powder,
and then becomes a blazing dust-fire.
-�r� ��ntikara

Text 362

uddhyeta tan�-latet� nalin�-patre�a nodv�jyate


spho�a� sy�d it� n��gaka� malayaja-k�od�mbhas� sicyate
sy�d asy�ti-bhar�t par�bhava it� pr�yo na v� pallav�-
ropo vak�as� tat katha� k��a-tanor �dhi� sam�dh�yat�m

uddhuyeta-may tremble; tanu-of the body; lata-the vine; it�-thus; nalin�-


lotus; patre�a-with a petal; na-not; udvijyate-is fanned; sphota�-burst; syat-may
become; it�-thus; na-not; a�gakam-the body; malayaja-sandalwood; k�oda-powder;
ambhasa-with water; sicyate-is sprinkled; syat-may be; asya-of that; at�-great;
bharat-from the burden; parabhava�-defeat; it�-thus; praya�-for the most part; na-
not; va-or; pallava-of a flower; aropa�-placing; vak�as�-on the breast; tat-that;
katham-how?; krsa-tano�-of the slender girl; adhi�-the disesase of the heart;
samadhiyatam-may be cured.

Because the vine of Her body may violently tremble, we do not fan Her even
with a single lotus petal. Because She may become overwhelmed we do not sprinkle
Her body with sandalwood powder and water. Because She may become crushed by the
great burden, we generally do not place even a flower on Her breast. How may the
disease of this slender girl's heart become cured?
-�r� Ananda

Text 363

nivasat� yad� tava h�daye


s� r�dh� vajra-gha�ite 'smin
tat khalu ku�ala� tasy��
smara-vi�ikhais t��yam�n�y��

nivasat�-resides; yad�-if; tava-Your; h�daye-in the heart; sa-She; r�dh�-


R�dh�; vajra-of thunderbolts; ghatite-constructed; asmin-in this; tat-then; khalu-
certainly; kusalam-well-being; tasy��-of Her; smara-of cupid; visikhai�-by the
sharpened arrows; tadyamanaya�-struck.

R�dh� is again and again attacked by the sharpened arrows of cupid. If She may
live in the protection of Your thunderbolt-heart, that will be very good for Her.
-author unknown

Text 364

unm�lant� nakhair lun�h� vahat� k�aum��calen�v��u


kr���-k�nanam �vi�ant� valaya-kv��ai� samutr�saya
ittha� pallava-dak�i��nila-kuh�ka��h��u sa�ketika-
vy�h�r�� subhaga tvad�ya-virahe r�dh�-sakh�n�� mitha�

unmilant�-they are opening; nakhai�-with fingernails; lunih�-cut them; vahat�-


it blows; k�auma-of cloth; a�calena-with the corners; av��u-cover; kr��a-of
pastimes; kananam-the forest; avisant�-enters; valaya-of bracelets; kvanai�-with
the sounds; samutrasaya-frighten; ittham-in this way; pallava-to the flowers;
dak�i�a-southern; anila-breeze; kuhuka��hisu-and cuckoos; sa�ketika-meeting;
vyahara�-words; subhaga-O handsome one; tvadiya-from You; virahe-in separation;
r�dh�-of R�dh�; sakhinam-of the gop�-friends; mitha�-mutual.

"They are blooming."


"Cut them with fingernails."
"It is blowing."
"Stop it with the edge of your sari."
"They are now entering the pastime-forest."
"Frighten them away with the tinkling of your bracelets."

O handsome K���a, afflicted by separation from You. R�dh�'s friends spoke


about the blooming flowers, pleasent southern breeze, and cooing cuckoos in this
way.
-�r� �ambhu

Text 365

galaty ek� m�rch� bhavat� punar any� yad anayo�


kim apy �s�n madhya� subhaga nikhil�yam api ni�i
likhanty�s tatr�sy�� kusuma�ara-lekha� tava k�te
sam�pti� svast�t� prathama-pada-bh�go 'p� na gata�

galat�-falls; eka-one gop�; murcha-unconscious; bhavat�-is; puna�-again; anya-


another; yat-which; anayo�-of the two gop�s; kim ap�-something; asit-was; madhyam-
the middle; subhaga-O handsome one; nikhilayam-in all; ap�-also; nis�-at night;
likhantya�-writing; tatra-there; asy��-of her; kusumasara-a love; lekham-letter;
tava-for Your; k�te-sake; samaptim-completion; svast�-greetings; it�-thus;
prathama-first; pada-bhaga�-word; ap�-even; na-not; gata�-gone.

One evening one of the gop�s fainted, and then a second, and gradually all the
gop�s fainted. O handsome K���a, one gop� tried to write a love letter to You, but
she became overwhelmed and was unable to complete the fist word "svast�"
(greetings).
-�r� �ac�pati

Text 366

citr�ya tvay� cintite tanu-bhuv� cakre tatajya� dhanur


vartim dhartum up�gate '�guli-yuge b�no gu�e yojita�
pr�rabdhe tava citra-karma�i dhanur-mukt�stra-bhinne bh��a�
bhitti� dr�g avalambya ke�ava cira� ca tatra citr�yate

citraya-for drawing a picture; tvay�-You; cintite-were meditated upon; tanu-


bhuva-by cupid; cakre-was done; tatajyam-stretched; dhanu�-the bow; vartim-the
paintbrush; dhartum-to hold; upagate-approached; angul�-of fingers; yuge-the pair;
bana�-the arrow; gune-on the bowstring; yojita�-was placed; prarabdhe-was begun;
tava-of You; citra-of the picture; karm�ni-the activity; dhanu�-from the bow;
mukta-was released; astra-by the weapon; bhinna-wounded; bhrsam-sorely; bhitim-
breaking; drak-at once; avalambya-attaining; kesava-O K���a; ciram-for a long time;
sa-She; tatra-there; citrayate-became like a picture.

When She meditated on You in order to draw Your picture, K�madeva drew his
bow. When Her two fingers moved to grasp the paintbrush, K�madeva placed an arrow
on the bowstring. When She began to draw, K�madeva shot an arrow. She was severely
wounded. O Ke�ava, She fainted and for a long time She was motionless as a painted
picture.
-�r� B��a
Text 367

tv�m anta�-sthira-bh�van�-pari�ata� matv� puro 'vasthita�


y�vad dor-valaya� karot� rabhas�d agre sam�li�gitum
t�vat ta� nijam eva deham acir�d �li�gya rom��cita�
d���v� v���i-jala-cchalena rudita� manye payodair api

tvam-You; anta�-in Her heart; sthira-constant; bhavana-by meditation;


parinatam-transformed; matva-considerating; pura�-in Her presence; avasthitam-
standing; y�vat-when; do�-of arms; valayam-the bracelets; karot�-does; rabhasat-
passionately; agre-in the presence; samali�gitum-to embrace; tavat-then; tam-that;
nijam-own; eva-certainly; deham-body; acirat-for a long time; alingya-embracing;
romancitam-hairs standing up; d���va-seeing; vrst�-jala-of rain; chalena-on the
pretext; ruditam-crying; manye-I think; payodai�-by rainclouds; ap�-even.

Constantly meditating on You in Her heart, and imagining that You had appeared
before Her, She made Her arms like a bracelet around You. Her hairs standing up,
She passionately embraced Her own body for a long time. When I saw Her, I thought
Her tears were a monsoon rain is disguise.
-author unknown

Text 368

acchinna� nayan�mbu bandhu�u k�ta� t�pa� sakh��� �hito


dainya� nyastam a�e�ata� parijane cint� gurubhyo 'rpite
adya �va� kila nirv�ti� vrajat� s� �v�sai� para� khidyate
vi�rabdho bhava viprayoga-janita� du�kha� vibhakta� tay�

acchinnam-unbroken; nayana-ambu-tears; bandhusu-among friends; k�tam-done;


tapa�-suffering; sakhisu-among other friends; ahita�-placed; dainyam-humble
supplication; nyastam-placed; asesata�-completely; parijane-to other friends;
cinta-anxiety; gurubhya�-to elderly relatives and superiors; arpita-to given;
adya-today; sva�-tomorrow; kila-indeed; nirv�tim-happiness; vrajat�-attains; sa-
She; svasai�-by sighs; param-greatly; khidyate-troubled; visrabdha�-peaceful;
bhava-please become; virpayoga-from separation; janitam-born; duhkham-suffering;
vibhaktam-in different ways; taya-by Her.

In the presence of some friends She sheds continual tears, to other friends
She narrates Her grief, to other friends She humbly begs mercy, and because of Her
superiors and elderly relatives She is anxious. These are the ways She suffers in
separation from You. Please become peaceful. She will become happy today or
tomorrow. She is only really tortured by the constant sighing.
-�r� Rudra

Asy� eva sa-pra�ayer�ya� jalpitam


Her Words Mixed With Love and Anger

Text 369

mukha-m�dhurya-sam�ddhy�
para-h�dayasya grah�tar� prasabham
k����tmani para-puru�e
sauh�da-k�masya k� �ar�r���

mukha-of the face; madhurya-of the sweetness; sam�ddhya-with the opulence;


para-of others; h�dayadya-of the heart; grahitar�-the thief; prasabham-violently;
k���a-atm�ni-with the dark-complexioned; para-puruse-Supreme Personality of
Godhead; sauh�da-friendship; kamasya-of one who desires; ka-what; sarira-of the
body; asa-hope.
The dark-complexioned Supreme Personality of Godhead is expert at capturing
the hearts of others with the sweet handsomeness of His face. What hope is left for
a person who desires friendship with Him?
-�r� Jagann�tha Sena

Vraja-dev�n�� sotpr�sa� sande�a�


A Joking Message From the Goddesses of Vraja

Text 370

v�c� t�t�ya-jana-�a�ka�a-du�sthay� ki�


ki� v� nime�a-virasena vilokitena
he n�tha nanda-suta gokula-sundar���m
anta�-car� sahacar� tvay� bhaktir eva

vaca-with words; trtiya-a third; jana-person; �a�kata-duhsthaya-without; kim-


what is the use?; kim-what is the use?; va-or; nimesa-blinking; virasena-without;
vilokitena-with seeing; he-O; n�tha-Lord; nanda-of Nanda; suta-O son; gokula-of
Gokula; sundarinam-of the beautiful girls; anta�-car�-within the heart; sahacar�-
the friend; tvay�-for You; bhakti�-devotion.

What is the use of talking with You in a solitary place? What is the use of
gazing at You with unblinking eyes? O Lord, O son of Nanda, it is the love they
bear for You in their hearts that is the only real friend of the beautiful girls in
Gokula.
-author unknown

Yath�rtha-sande�a�
A Very Appropriate Letter

Text 371

mural�-kala-nikva�air na y�
guru-lajj�-bharam apy aj�ga�an
virahe tava gopik�� katha�
samaya� t� gamayantu m�dhava

mural�-of the flute; kala-by the sweet; nikvanai�-sounds; na-not; ya�-who;


guru-of their superiors; lajjam-embarrasment; ap�-even; ajiganan-considered;
viraha-in separation; tava-of You; gop�ka�-O gop�s; katham-why?; samayan-an
opportunity; ta�-they; gamayantu-may cause to go; m�dhava-O K���a.

When they heard the sweet sounds of Your flute they were not shy of their
superiors. Why should the gop�s become shy now that they are separated from You?
-�r� Sa��h� d�sa

Text 372

mathur�-pathika mur�rer
upageya� dv�r� ballav�-vacanam
punar api yamun�-salile
k�liya-garal�nalo jvalati

mathura-to Mathur�; pathika-O travellers; mura-are�-to Lord K���a, the enemy


of the Mura demon; upageyam-should be spoken; dvar�-at the door; ballav�-of the
gop�s; vacanam-the statement; puna�-again; ap�-also; yamun�-of the Yamun�; salile-
in the water; kaliya-of Kaliya; garala-of the poison; anala�-the fire; jvalat�-
burns.
O traveler to Mathur�, at Lord K���a's door please speak this message from the
gop�s: "The fire of K�liya's poison again burns in the Yamun�'s water."
-�r� V�ra Sarasvat�

Dv�ravat�-sthasya harer viraha�


Lord K���a's Feelings of Separation in Dv�rak�

Text 373

k�lind�m anuk�la-komalaray�m ind�vara-�y�mal��


�ailopanta-bhuva� kadamba-kusumair �modina� kandar�n
r�dh�� ca pratham�bhis�ra-madhura� j�t�nut�pa� smarann
astu dv�ravat�-patis tri-bhuvan�mod�ya d�modara�

k�lind�m-the Yamun�; anukula-komalarayam-gently flowing; indivara-with lotus


flowers; �y�mala�-dark; saila-of Govardhana Hill; upanta-bhuva�-the aerea around;
kadamba-kadamba; kusumai�-with flowers; amodina�-fragant; kandaran-the caves;
r�dh�n-R�dh�; ca-also; prathama-first; abhisara-in the meeting; madhuram-sweet;
jata-born; anutapa�-suffering; smaran-remembering; astu-may be; dvaravat�-of
Dv�rak�; pati�-the king; tr�-the three; bhuvana-worlds; amodaya-for the delight;
damodara�-Lord K���a.

Remembering the gently flowing Yamun� River, the area around Govardhana Hill,
dark with blue lotuses, and the valleys fragrant with many kadamba flowers, and
also remembering sweetly beautiful R�dh� during Their first meeting, He became
filled with pain. May Lord D�modara, the king of Dv�rak�, delight the three worlds.
-�r� �ara�a

Text 374

k�ma� k�mayate na keli-nalin�� n�modate kaumud�-


nisyandair na sam�hate m�ga-d���m �l�pa-l�l�m api
s�dann e�a ni��su ni�saha-tanur bhog�bhil���lasair
a�gais t�myat� cetas� vraja-vadh�m �dh�ya mugdho hari�

kamam-voluntarily; kamayate-desired; na-not; kel�-the pastime; nalinim-lotus;


na-not; amodate-is pleased; kaumud�-of the moonlight; ni�yandai�-by the flowing;
na-not; samihate-endeavor; mrga-d��am-of the doe-eyed girls; alapa-of conversation;
l�l�m-the pastime; ap�-even; sidan-sitting down; esa�-He; nisasu-during the nights;
nihsaha-desponded; tanu�-and thin; bhoga-pleasures; abhilasa-desire; alasai�-
without; a�gai�-with limbs; tamyat�-pale and wilting; cetas�-in His heart; vraja-of
Vraja; vadhum-a girl; adhaya-taking; mugdha�-fainted; hari�-Lord K���a.

He does not wish the pastime lotus flower. The moonlight does not please Him.
He does not try to playfully talk with His doe-eyed queens. He spends the evenings
sitting down, pale, wan, and languid, without desiring to enjoy anything. A vraja-
gop� staying in His heart, Lord Har� is stunned.
-�r� �ara�a

Text 375

ratna-cch�y�-cchurita-jaladhau mandire dv�rak�y�


rukmi�y�pi prabala-pulakodbhedam �li�gitasya
vi�va� p�y�n mas��a-yamun�-t�ra-v�n�ra-ku�je
r�dh�-keli-bhara-parimala-dhy�na-m�rch� mur�re�

tatra-in this matter; k�nta-with the lover; asliste-in contact; ap�-even;


harau-Lord K���a; murcha-fainting; karitvam-the cause; yath�-just as; padyavalyam-
in Padyavali; ratna-of jewels; chaya-in the shadow; churita-covered; jaladhau-in
the ocean; mandire-in the palace; dvarakaya-of Dv�rak�; rukminya-by Rukmini; ap�-
even; prabala-strongly; pulakodbhedam-hairs standing up; ali�gitasya-embraced;
visvam-the universe; payat-protects; ma���a-charming; yamun�-of the Yamun�; tira-on
the shore; vanira-of vanira plants; ku�je-in the grove; r�dh�-of �r�mat� R�dh�r���;
kel�-of pastimes; bhara-of the abundance; parimala-on the fragance; dhyana-by
meditation; murcha-fainting; mura-re�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon.

Even though tighly embraced by Rukmi��-dev� in a jeweled palace in Dv�rak� by


the sea, Lord K���a, remembering the fragance of �r�mat� R�dh�r���'s transcendental
pastimes in the v�n�ra grove by the lovely shore of the Yamun�, suddenly fainted.
-�r� Um�patidhara

Text 376

nirmagnena may�mbhas� pra�ayata� p�l� sam�li�git�


ken�l�kam ida� tav�dya kathita� r�dhe mudh� t�myasi
ity utsvapna-parampar�su �ayane �rutv� vaca� ��r�gino
rukmi�y�� �ithil�-k�ta� sa-kapa�a� ka��ha-graha� p�tu va�

nirmagnena-plunged; maya-by Me; ambhas�-in the water; pra�ayata�-out of love;


pal�-Pali; samali�gita-is embraced; kena-why?; alikam-harsh words; idam-this; tava-
of You; adya-now; kathitam-is spoken; r�dhe-O R�dh�; mudha-in vain; tamyas�-You
pine; it�-thus; utsvapna-paramparasu-in sleep; sayane-on the bed; �rutva-hearing;
vaca�-the words; sar�gina�-of Lord K���a, who holds the Sarnga bow; rukminya�-of
Rukmini; sithil�-k�ta�-loosened; sa-with; kapatam-cheating; ka��ha-of the neck;
graha�-the hold; patu-may protect; va�-you all.

"Now I am passionately embracing P�l� in the water. Why do You speak angry
words? O R�dh�, You pine for Me in vain!" Hearing these crooked words from K���a as
He slept on the bed, Rukmi�� stopped embracing His neck. May Lord K���a protect you
all.
-�r� Um�patidhara

V�nd�van�dh��var�-viraha-g�tam
The Queen of V�nd�vana's Words of Separation

Text 377

y�te dv�ravat�-pura� madhu-ripau tad-vastra-samvy�nay�


k�lind�-ta�a-ku�ja-va�jula-lat�m �lambya sotka��hay�
udg�ta� guru-b��pa-gadgada-galat-t�ra-svara� r�dhay�
yen�ntar jala-c�ribhir jala-carair apy utkam utk�jitam

tiracam-like a bird; ap�-even; rodanam-crying; yath�-just as; padyavalyam-in


Padyavali; yate-hasd gone; dvaravat�-Dv�rak�; puram-to the city; madhu-ripau-when
Lord K���a, the enemy of the Mura demon; tat-of Him; vastra-of the Yamun�; tata-on
the shore; ku�ja-in the grove; va�jula-a va�jula; latam-vine; alambya-resting; sa-
with; utka��haya-yearning; udgitam-sung; guru-intense; baspa-tears; gadgada-choked
up voice; galat-falling; tara-shrill; svaram-notes; r�dh�ya-by �r�mat� R�dh�r���;
yena-by which; jala-carai�-by the fish; ap�-also; utkam-anxious; utkujitam-
warbling.

When K���a left for Dv�rak�, R�dh� wrapped Herself in His garments and sat
down by a charming vine in a grove on the Yamun�'s shore. Filled with longing, She
shed tears and sang in a shrill, choked up voice. When the fish in the water heard
Her they became anxious, thinking the singing the warbling of a predator crane or
pelican.
-�r� Apar�jita
Vraja-dev�n�� sande�a�
A Letter From the Goddesses of Vraja

Text 378

p�ntha dv�ravat�� pray�s� yad� he tad devak�nandano


vaktavya� smara-moha-mantra-viva�� gopyo 'p� n�mojjhit��
et�� keli-kadamba-dh�li-pa�alair �loka-��nyo di�a�
k�lind�-ta�a-bh�mayo 'p� bhavato n�y�nt� citt�spadam

pantha-O traveller; dvaravatim-to Dv�rak�; prayas�-you go; yad�-if; he-O; tat-


this; devak�-nandana�-K���a, the son of Devaki; vaktavya�-should be told; smara-of
cupid; moha-enchanted; mantra-by the mantra; vivasa�-overwhelmed; gopya�-the gop�s;
ap�-even; nama-indeed; ujjhita�-are rejected; eta�-they; kel�-of Your pastimes;
kadamba-of the kadamba flower; dhul�-of pollen; patalai�-by the multitude; aloka-
seeing; sunya�-without; disa�-the directions; k�lind�-of the Yamun�; tata-of the
shore; bhumaya�-the ground; ap�-even; bhavata�-of Your na-does not; ayant�-go;
citta-of the heart; aspadam-to the abode.

O traveler, if you go to Dv�rak�, tell this to the son of Devak�: "Now that
You have rejected them, the gop�s are overwhelmed by K�madeva's mantra-charm, and
their eyes are blinded by the kadamba pollen of Your pastimes. In spite of all
this, the shore of the Yamun� still does not enter Your heart.
-�r� Govardhan�c�rya

Text 379

te govardhana-kandar�� sa yamun�-kaccha� sa ce��o va�o


bh����ra� sa vanaspati� sahacar�s te tac ca go��h��ga�am
ki� te dv�ravat�-bhuja�ga h�daya� n�y�t� do�air ap�ty
avy�d vo h�d� du�saha� vraja-vadh�-sande�a-�alya� hare�

te-they; govardhana-of Govardhana Hill; kandara�-the caves; sa�-that; yamun�-


of the Yamun�; kaccha�-shore; sa�-that; ca-also; ista�-favorite; vata�-vata trees;
bhandira�-named Bhandira; sa-that; vanaspati�-kadamba tree by Kaliya lake;
sahacara�-friends; te-they; tat-that; ca-also; go��ha-a�ganam-the Village of Vraja;
kim-whether?; te-they; dvaravat�-of Dv�rak�; bhuja�ga-O debauchee; h�dayam-to the
heart; na-not; ayat�-go; dosai�-with faults; ap�-even; it�-thus; avyat-may protect;
va�-you all; h�d�-in the heart; duhsaham-unbearable; vraja-of Vraja; vadhu-of the
girls; sandesa-of the message; sakyam-the javelin; hare�-of K���a.

"Why do Govardhana's caves, the Yamun�'s shore, Your favorite va�a tree named
Bh����ra, the kadamba tree at K�liya Lake, Your friends, and Vraja village, not
enter Your heart, even to be criticized, O debauchee of Dv�rak�". These words of
the vraja-gop�s were an unbearable javelin wounding Lord Hari's heart. May that
javelin protect you all.
-�r� N�la

Text 380

k�lindy�� pulina� prado�a-maruto ramy�� �a���k���ava�


sant�pa� na harantu n�ma nitar�� kurvant� kasm�t puna�
sandi��a� vraja-yo�it�m it� hare� sa����vato 'nta�-pure
ni��v�s�� pras�t� jayant� rama��-saubhagya-garva-cchida�

kalindya�-of the Yamuna� river; pulinam-the shore; pradosa-at sunset; maruta�-


the breezes; ramya�-charming; sa�a�ka-of the moon; a�sava�-the rays of light;
santapam-burning suffering; na-do not; harantu-remove; nama-indeed; nitaram-
continually; kurvanti-doing; kasm�t-for what reason?; puna�-again; sandistam-the
instructions of a letter; vraja-of Vraja; yositam-of the girls; iti-thus; hare�-of
Lord K���a; sa�srvata�-listening; anta�-pure-in the women's quarters in the middle
of the house; nihvasa�-sighs; prasrta�-manifested; jayanti-all glories; ram�ni-of
all beautiful girls; saubhagya-of the good fortune; garva-the pride; chida�-
breaking.

The girls of Vraja wrote Lord K���a a letter, that said: "(O K���a) why is it
that the constantly shining charming moonlight and the constant breezes on the
shore of the Yamun� are not able to cool the burning sufferings we feel? When He
heard these words within His palace, K���a began to sigh. Those sighs broke into
pieces the pride of His beautiful queens.
-�r� Pa�catantrak�t

Sud�m�na� vipra� prat� dv�rake�vara-v�kyam


Words of Dv�rak�'s King to Sud�m�a Vipra

Text 381

m� g� ity apama�gala� vraja sakhe snehena ��nya� vacas


ti��het� prabhut� yath�bhila�ita� kur� ity ud�s�nat�
br�mo hanta sud�ma-mitra-vacana� naivopac�r�d ida�
smartavy� vayam �dare�a bhavat� y�vad bhavad-dar�anam

ma-don't; ga�-go; it�-thus; apama�galam-inasuspiciousness; vraja-attain;


sakhe-O friend; snehena-of affection; sunyam-devoid; vaca�-words; tistha-stay; it�-
thus; prabh�ta-independence; yath�-just as; abhilasitam-desired; kuru-you may do;
it�-thus; udasinata-aloofness; bruma�-we say; hanta-indeed; sudama-O Sudama; mitra-
friend; vacanam-words; idam-this; smartavya�-may be remembered; vayam-wer; adare�a-
with respect; bhavata-by you; y�vat-as long as; bhavat-of you; dar�anam-the sight.

Please don't go. Friend, it is not auspicious for you to speak these unloving
words. Stay here. You can be completely independent. You can do whatever you like.
You can remain completely aloof. O friend Sud�m�, I tell you until I see you again
I will always remember you with reverence and love.
-�r� Hari

Sva-g�h�dika� d���v� tasya vacanam


Sud�m�'s Words on Seeing His Home, Possessions and Family

Text 382

tad geha� nata-bhitt� mandiram ida� labdh�vak��a� diva�


s� dhenur jarat� carant� kari��m et� ghan�bh� gha���
sa k�udro mu�ala-dhvani� kalam ida� sa�g�taka� yo�it��
citra� hanta katha� dvijo 'yam iyat�� bh�mi� sam�ropita�

tat-that; geham-home; nata-with slanting; bhitt�-walls; manidaram-a palace;


idam-this; labdha-attained; avakasam-a place; diva�-of the heavenly planets; sa-
that; dhenu�-cow; jarat�-old; carant�-move; karinam-of elephants; eta�-they; ghana-
of a cloud; abha�-the appearance; ghata�-multitude; sa�-that; k�udra�-little;
musala-of a pestle; dhvani�-sound; kalam-sweet; idam-this; sa�gitakam-singing;
yositam-of women; citram-a great wonder; hanta-indeed; katham-how is it?; dvija�-
brahmana; ayam-this; iyatim-like this; bhumim-place; aropita�-attained.

Before my home was a small shack with slanted walls, and now it is a heavenly
palace. Before I had only one old cow, and now there are many elephants moving like
a great cloud. Before there was only the occasional sound of the grinding mortar,
and now there is the sweet singing of many women. This is very wonderful. How has
this br�hma�a obtained a place like this?
-author unknown

Kuruk�etre �r�-v�nd�van�dh��var�-ce��itam
The Queen of V�nd�vana's Activities at Kuruk�etra

Text 383

yenaiva s�cita-nav�bhyudaya-prasa�g�
m�n�hata-sphurita-t�marasopamena
any�n nim�lya nayana� muditaiva r�dh�
v�mena tena nayanena dadar�a k���am

yena-by which; eva-certainly; sucita-indicated; nava-hew; abhyudaya-good


fortune; prasa�ga-touching; mine-of a fish; ahata-struck; sphurita-glistening;
tamarasa-a red lotus flower; upamena-like; anyat-the other; nimilya-closing;
nayanam-eye; mudita-jubilant; eva-certainly; r�dh�-R�dh�; vamena-with the left;
tena-with that; nayanena-eye; dadar�a-saw; k���am-K���a.

Jubilant, fortunate R�dh� closed Her right eye, and with Her left eye, which
was like a glistening red lotus flower pushed by a fish, gazed at Lord K���a.
-�r� Hara

Text 384

�nandodgata-b��pa-p�ra-pihita� cak�u� k�ama� nek�itu�


b�hu s�data eva kampa-vidhurau �aktau na ka��ha-grahe
v��� sambhrama-gadgad�k�ara-pad� sa�k�obha-lola� mana�
satya� vallabha-sa�gamo 'p� su-cir�� j�to viyog�yate

�nanda-from bliss; udgate-arisen; baspa-of tears; pura-a flood; pihitam-


placed; cak�u�-eyes; k�amam-able; na-not; �k�itum-to see; bahu-arms; sidata-
remained; eva-certainly; kampa-vidhurau-trembling; saktau-able; na-not; ka��ha-the
neck; grahe-in holding; v�ni-words; sambhrama-being overwhelmed; gadgada-choked up;
ak�ara-pade-in words; sa�kobha-lolam-restless; mana�-heart; satyam-in truth;
vallabha-with Her beloved; sa�gama�-association; ap�-even; su-cirat-after a long
time; jata�-was manifested; viyogayate-as separation.

Her eyes flooded with tears and could no longer see. Her arms were overwhelmed
with trembling and could not wrap themselves around His neck. Her choked voice
could speak no words, and Her heart was restless. After such a long time, the
meeting with Her lover was just like Her separation from Him.
-�r� �ubhra

Rahasy anunayanta� k���a� prat� r�dh�-v�kyam


Lord K���a Tries to Console �r�mat� R�dh�r��� With Sweet Words in a Solitary Place,
and She Replies in the Following Way

Text 385

ki� p�d�nte lu�has� viman�� sv�mino h� svatantr��


ki�cit k�la� kvacid abhiratas tatra kas te 'par�dha�
�gas-k�ri�y aham iha yay� j�vita� tvad-viyoge
bhart�-pr���� striya it� nanu tva� mamaiv�nuneya�

kim-why; pada-of the feet; ante-at the end; luthas�-You have fallen; vimana�-
unhappy at heart; svamina�-the husband; h�-indeed; svatantra�-are independent;
ki�cit-somewhat; kalam-time; kvacit-somewhere; abhirata�-devoted; tatra-there; ka�-
what?; te-of You; apar�dh��-offense; aga�-sin; karin�-doing; aham-I am; iha-here;
yaya-by whom; j�vitam-lived; tvat-of You; viyoge-in separation; bhartr-for whom the
husband; pra�a�-is the very life and soul; striya�-wives; it�-thus; nanu-is it
not?; tvam-You; mama-by Me; anuneya�-should be apologized to.

Why have You fallen disconsolate at My feet? The husband is always


independent. He may stay for some time, and then He may also go away. What fault is
there on Your part? It is I who am the sinner, for I remained alive even when
separated from You. The wife should always consider her husband to be her very life
and soul. It is I who should apologize to You.
-author unknown

Tatraiva sakh�� prat� �r�-r�dh�-vacanam


�r�mat� R�dh�r���'s Words to a Gop�-friend at Kuruk�etra

Text 386

ya� kaum�ra-hara� sa eva h� varas t� eva caitra-k�ap�s


te conm�lita-m�lat�-surabhaya� prau�h�� kadamb�nil��
s� caiv�sm� tath�pi tatra surata-vy�p�ra-l�l�-vidhau
rev�-rodhas� vetasi-tanu-tale ceta� samutka��hate

ya�-that same person who; kaum�ra-hara�-the thief of my heart during youth;


sa�-he; eva h�-certainly; vara�-lover; t��-these; eva-certainly; caitra-k�apa�-
moonlit nights of the month of Caitra; te-those; ca-and; unm�lita-fructified;
m�lat�-of m�lat� flowers; surabhaya�-fragance; prau�h��-full; kadamba-with the
fragance of the kadamba flower; anil��-the breezes; s�-that one; ca-also; eva-
certainly; asm�-I am; tath�p�-still; tatra-there; surata-vy�p�ra-in intimate
transaction; l�l�-of pastimes; vidhau-in the manner; rev�-of the river named Rev�;
rodhas�-on the ba�k; vetas�-of the name Vetas�; taru-tale-underneath the tree;
ceta�-my mind; samutka��hate-is very eager to go.

That very personality who stole away my heart during my youth is now again my
master. These are the same moonlit nights of the month of Caitra. The same fragance
of m�lat� flowers is there, and the same sweet breezes are blowing from the kadamba
forest. In our intimate relationship, I am also the same lover, yet still my mind
is not happy here. I am eager to go back to that place on the bank of the Rev�
under the Vetas� tree. That is my desire.*
-author unknown

Text 387

priya� so 'ya� k���a� sahacar� kuru-k�etra-militas


tath�ha� s� r�dh� tad idam ubhayo� sa�gama-sukham
tath�py anta�-khelan-madhura-mural�-p�cama-ju�e
mano me k�lindi-pulina-vipin�ya sp�hayati

priya�-very dear; sa�-He; ayam-this; k���a�-Lord K���a; saha-car�-O My dear


friend; kuru-k�etra-milita�-who is met on the field of Kuru�etra; tath�-also; aham-
I; s�-that; r�dh�-R�dh�r���; tad-that; idam-this; ubhayo�-of both of Us; sa�gama-
sukham-the happiness of meeting; tath�p�-still; anta�-within; khelan-playing;
madhura-sweet; mural�-of the flute; pa�cama-the fith note; ju�e-which delights in;
mana�-the mind; me-My; k�lind�-of the River Yamun�; pulina-on the ba�k; vipin�ya-
the trees; sp�hayat�-desires.

My dear friend, now I have met My very old and dear friend K���a on this field
of Kuruk�etra. I am the same R�dh�r���, and now We are meeting together. It is very
pleasent, but still I would like to go to the bank of the Yamun� beneath the trees
of the forest there. I wish to hear the vibration of His sweet flute playing the
fifth note within that forest of V�nd�vana.*
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Sam�ptau ma�gal�cara�am
Auspicious Conclusion

Text 388

mugdhe mu�ca vi��dam atra balabhit kampo gurus tyajyat�m


sad-bh�va� bhaja pu��ar�ka-nayane m�ny�n im�n m�nay�
lak�m�� �ik�ayata� svayamvara-vidhau dhanvantarer v�k-chal�d
ity anya-prati�edham �tmani vidhi� ���van hari� p�tu va�

mugdhe-O beautiful girl; mu�ca-abandon; visadam-Siva; atra-here; balabhit-


Indra; kampa�-Varuna; guru�-Brhaspati; tajyatam-should be rejected; sat-bhavam-the
transcendental Supreme Person; bhaja-you should worship; pundarika-nayane-O lotus-
eyed girl; ma-don't; anyan-others; iman-these; manaya-accept; lak�m�n-the goddess
of fortune; ��k�ayata�-instructions; svayamvara-vidhau-in the matter of selecting a
husband; dhanvantare�-of Dhanvantari; vak-chalat-from the clever words; it�-thus;
anya-of the others; pratisedhau-rejection; atm�ni-in Himself; vidhim-acceptance;
srnvan-hearing; hari�-May Lord Hari; patu-protect; va�-you all.

"O beautiful girl, reject �iva. Reject Indra, Varu�a, and B�haspati. O lotus-
eyed girl, worship the transcendental Personality of Godhead, and reject all the
others."
May Lord Hari, who overheard Dhanvantar� as he was instructing Lak�m�-dev� to
select the Lord as her husband, protect you all."
-author unknown

Text 389

yadu-va���vata�s�ya
v�nd�vana-vih�ri�e
sa�s�ra-sagarott�ra-
taraye haraye nama�

yadu-of the Yadu; va�sa-dynasty; avata�saye-the crown; v�nd�vana-in V�nd�vana;


vilasine-who enjoys transcendental pastimes; sa�sara-of repeated birth and death;
sagara-the ocean; uttara-for crossing; taraye-the boat; haraye-to Lord K���a;
nama�-obeisances.

To K���a, the crown of the Yadu dynasty, the Lord who enjoys transcendental
pastimes in V�nd�vana, and the boat for crossing the ocean of repeated birth and
death, I offer my respectful obeisances.
-�r� Avilamba Sarasvat�

Text 390

bhramyad-bh�svara-mandar�dri-�ikhara-vy�gha��an�d visphurat-
key�r�� puruh�ta-ku�jara-kara-pr�g-bh�ra-samvardhina�
daityendra-pramad�-kapola-vilasat-patr��kura-cchedino
dor-da���� kali-k�la-kalma�a-mu�a� ka�sa-dvi�a� p�ntu va�

bhramyat-wandering; bhasvara-splendid; mandara-adr�-Mandara Mountain; sikh


ara-the summit; vyaghattanat-from striking; visphurat-glistening; keyura�-with
armlets; puruhuta-ku�jara-of the elephant Airavata; kara-of the trunk; prak-bhara-
the front; sammardina�-eclipsing; daitya-of the demons; indra-of the kings;
pramada-of the wives; kapola-on the cheek�; vilasat-the splendid; patra-a�kura-
decorations; chedina�-breaking; do�-danda�-the arms; kal�-of Kali; kala-of the
time; kalmusa-the sins; musa�-removing; ka�sa-dvi�a�-of Lord K���a, the enemy of
Ka�sa; pantu-may protect; va�-you all.

May Lord K���a's arms, which are decorated with armlets glistening because of
striking the splendid summit of Mount Mandara, which eclipse the beauty of the
forepart of Air�vata Elephant's trunk, which break the decoration on the cheeks of
the great demons' wives by turning them into widows, and which remove the sins of
the age of Kali, protect you all.
-�r� Yoge�vara

Text 391

jayadeva-bilvama�gala-
mukhai� k�t� ye 'tra sant� sandarbh��
te��� pady�ni vin�
sam�h�t�n�tar��y atra

jayadeva-by Jayadeva Gosvami; bilbama�gala-and Bilvama�gala Thakura; mukhai�-


headed; k�ta�-written; ye-which; atra-hers; sant�-have been; sandarbha�-many books;
tesam-of them; pady�ni-the verses; vina-without; samah�t�ni-collected; itar�ni-
others; atra-here.

Jayadeva Gosv�m�, Bilvama�gala Th�kura, and other famous authors have written
many books. Without referring to their verses, the work of other, less-famous
authors has been assembled in this book.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Text 392

lasad-ujjvala-rasa-suman�
gokula-kula-p�lik�li-kalita�
mad-abh�psitam abhidady�t
taru�a-tam�la-kalpa-p�dapa� ko 'pi

lasat-splendid; ujjvla-rasa-in the mellows of conjugal love; sumana�-very


expert; gokula-of Gokula; kula-palika-of the pious girls; al�-by the multitudes;
kalita�-worshiped; mat-my; abhipsitam-desire; abhidadyat-may grant; taruna-young;
tamala-tamala; kalpa-padapa�-desire trees; kah ap�-a certain.

I pray that the young tam�la kalpa-vrk�a tree expert at enjoying splendid
amorous pastimes and worshiped by the pious girls of Gokula will grant my desire.
-�r� R�pa Gosv�m�

Das könnte Ihnen auch gefallen