HRASVA BAGHAVATHAM: HRASVABHAGAVATHAM- CANTO -10 -PURVARDHA

नन्दस्त्वात्मजलाभतुष्टह्मदयः कर्माणि चक्रे शुभान्

यायाताः शिशुदर्शनैकमनसः पुत्रोत्सवाघोषिणः।

गोपीगोपजना उपायनकराः संमानिताः
कंसायैष करं ददौ व्रजपतिः शौरिं ददर्श प्रियम्।।

Meaning;Nandagopa was extremely happy because he was blessed with the son ( as he was old ). He celebrated his son's birth - by performing appropriate religious rites prescribed in the scriptures and giving dana or donation and gifts to the brahmanas and others in a very generous manner (Nanda was a very large hearted person by nature and he gave donations and gifts extremely satisfied in mind and heart to one and all, in such a generous manner) .The other gopalas and gopikas also heard the birth of the son to Yashoda and assembled in the residence of Nanda with appropriate gifts and other auspicious articles for the occasion in celebrating the birth of Krishna.They were so happy that they played with each other by smearing with butter , curds etc. on each other and the "Janmothsavam " of the son-KRISHNA was celebrated with all fervour and joy.

In view of KRISHNA residing in GOKULAM- the place was blessed by Lakshmi and all prosperity and with good fortune and welfare.

Nanda after celebrating his son's birth in a very grand manner went to Mathura to pay the annual tax due to be given to Kamsa (Nanda was a small king under Kamsa). After payment of the tax, Vasudeva came to the place where Nanda was staying and both of them met each other with all love and exchanged their welfare with each other.

Commentary: The commentators say that Nanda believed that Krishna was born to him and this was the reason that he celebrated his son's birth as per scriptures - Jathakarma. As Vasudeva was confined in the jail.he could not perform this function in the jail immediately after the birth of Krishna. So he mentally decided to give 1 lakh cows as dana.Whereas Nanda could give in charity in physical form. Suka told Parikshit that it was Hari who induced the feeling to Nanda that Krishna was his son.Suka in the opening verse of this chapter calls Nanda as Mahamana -महामना:; - (उदार चित्त्त: ) -यत् वा महान् श्रीक्कृष्णॊ मनसि यस्य स: - very large hearted person.Suka further says that the gopikas wore all the jewellery from the head to their feet and then went to see Krishna. And they ran with joy so fast that the flowers from their hair locks fell on the way.And they showered their blessings for the child for a long life.

When Nanda was at Mathura, Vasudeva met his brother Nanda ( there in Harivamsha Puranam it is stated that Nanda was the step brother of Vasudeva).Vasudeva congradulated Nanda for begetting a son in his old age. Nandagopa expressed his sorrow for Vasudeva's loss of 6 sons and the disappearance of the female child as well. Vasudeva without grieving over the loss of his own progeny conveyed his well wishes to Nanda. Nanda in turn expressed his sorrow for the loss of his sons and daughter to Vasudeva. Vasudeva then asked about the welfare of Balarama and Krishna. Vasudeva asked Nanda to return to Gokula immediately as he saw some bad omens (in fact he knew the evil designs of Kamsa and his followers to harm all the children). Nanda and his friends left for Gokulam on the bullock carts.

मन्दस्मेराद्र्रवक्त्रा शिशुमधिकविषं पाययन्ती स्तनं स्वं

पीतं प्राणाट्टहासैर्गलदसुरभवद् भीतिदा पूतना सा;।

देहे दग्धे तु धूमेƒप्यगरुसुरभिले विस्मिता
गोप्यः कर्माणि चक्रुर् हरिभजनरता बालरक्षार्थकानि।।

Meaning: The rakshasi by name Putana in the disguise of a beautiful damsel with all smile ,gave breast milk to the child- the breast milk with powerful poison. But Krishna drank not only the milk but also her life Unable to save herself from the agony she cried in a loud voice with fear and fell with her real form as a rakshasi. She fell dead. Gopikas who were nearby rescued the child ( but the child was playing in her dead body) . As the child was harmless -they thought that the child escaped from a big danger to His life- they offered prayers to Vishnu (a prayer known as Vishnu Kavacha) to protect Him . Nanda and the other gopalas returned and saw the dead demoness in a huge form They cut her body into many pieces and burnt her dead body. On burning a very pleasant smell emanated from her burning body .

Commentary: Puthana- who was an associate of Kamsa and induced by him- came to Gokula with the intention of killing the new born child.She had already killed many children Krishna was then a month old child.

She approached Yashoda in a disguise - seeing her form all were spell bound. Puthana took the child in her arms and fed the poisoned the poisoned milk. But Krishna- who was aware of all about her wicked nature- drank the breast milk with closed eyes. In so doing He drank her life also along with all poison. Later she fell with a loud thud and assumed a gigantic form. Nanda and others thanked Vasudeva and God Hari for having protected the child from a great danger. Her body had to be cut into pieces and then burnt. From her body emanated a very pleasant smell resembling the aroma of sandal and other cosmetics.

Puthana , although approached Hari with the bad intention ,got liberation-mukthi ( as she approached with a motherly feeling). Suka concludes this chapter that His devotees are sure to get mukthi.

Although there are a number of differences between the incarnation of Vishnu as- Rama and Krishna, there is one striking similarity. In Ramavathara, Rama killed Tataka first and in Krishnavathara Krishna killed Puthana first. In both the cases it is a Rakshasi was the first victim.

Hari Suri mentions a number of reasons for the act of killing in Puthana. The Utpreksha Alankaras are many.

बालस्त्रैमासिकोƒनोमृदुदतलतः पाटयन् हा! तृणाव-

र्ताख्यम् कण्ठे गृहीत्वा नभसि सुररिपुं वातरूपं निगृह्य।

मुक्तं चक्रे, जनन्यै निजवदनतले दर्शयन् विश्वमेतत्

सर्वै लीलाभिरेवं व्रजजनमखिलं मोदयन् लालितोƒभूत्।

Meaning: When Krishna was three months old, He ,kicked with His small feet a big bullock cart laden with lot of pots and utencils full of food stuff.The cart was turned upside down and reduced to small dust.. Another rakshasa by name Trinavartha -who came in the form of a whirlwind and carried Krishna in the air. Krishna caught hold of Trinavarta's neck in a firm grip and finally unable to save himself, Trinavartha fell dead on the ground.Thus Trinavartha got liberation.Not only that- Krishna showed the entire creation and Brahmandam to His mother Yashoda. Krishna was involing Himself in such sports-leelas and made all the residents of Gokulam (Vraja) very happy. And Krishna was fondled with affection by all of them.

Commentary : When Krishna was about three months old, and trying to turn around - a Vedic ceremony called "uththana" was observed by Yashoda and Nanda. All the priests , who had chanted Vedic hymns and the ritual was observed , Yashoda left Krishna under a cart and went to look after the guests who had come. As Krishna was hungry, He kicked his tender legs and cried to draw the attention. As he kicked, the cart had turned upside down .It was a demon called by name Shakatasura , who had come in the guise of the cart. He was killed. Yashoda and others thought that again Krishna, as a child had been saved from a danger to his life. The priests then chanted Vedic hymns and blessed the child.

On an other occasion when Yashoda was breast feeding Krishna, she felt him a bit heavy. So leaving Him on the ground she went inside her house to attend some work. Then a demon ,by name Trinavartha ordered by Kamsa to kill Krishna came in the form of a wild whirlwind and carried Krishna to the sky. The whirlwind was so severe that there was a dust screen all around , nobody was able to open his/her eyes and see. Krishna caught holt of the neck of Trinavartha in such a firm grip that Trinavartha was not able to breathe even and finally fell from the sky and was dead. Krishna was playing over his body All the gopalas and gopikas took him in their hands and felt that it was rebirth to Krishna.

Krishna reciprocated His love towards His mother Yashoda. For Yashoda ,her love and affection towards Krishna was

रामं कृष्णं च नाम्नाƒकुरुत मुनिरुभौ तत्र कृष्णस्तु धावन्

वत्सैः क्रीडंश्च शृंगिद्विजसलिलशितास्यादिभिर् मंक्षु गच्छन्।

भोक्ता क्षीरादि दत्तं प्रतिभवनमदत्तं च मोष्टा जनन्यै

मृद्भक्षोत्कण्ठितायै विवृतनिजमुखे दर्शयामास विश्वम्।।

Meaning: Sri Gargacharya was the Guru for Yadavas. On being asked by Vasudeva, he came to Gokulam and Nanda received him and offered his respects to him.Garga then told indirectly tha tKrishna could be Vasudeva's son . Nanda asked Garga to perfom the naming ceremony( Namakaranam )for both the children . Then Garga named the elder son as Balarama ( Sankarshana ) and named the younger son as Krishna. After the naming ceremony was over Garga left Gokulam.

Krishna and Balarama then were running after the calves,birds,cows with horns ,monkeys cats dogs and fire and thorns and playing with them. Rohini and Yashoda could not prevent their children . They were running fast. Not only that- Krishna went with his friends to other gopis' houses and ate the butter , milk and curd -kept by them for their personal use. This was done without their knowledge. When other gopis went to Yashoda and complained about Krishna, Yashoda defended her son telling them as to what was the need for Him to steal butter and other eatables when she was giving Him in sufficient quantity.

He and Balarama grew up in this manner playing and making their parents and others happy with their childish pranks.

Once all the friends of Krishna complained to Yashoda that Krishna ate a lump of earth. Thinking that this will be harmful to His health, Yashoda asked Krishna to open His mouth. When Krishna opened His mouth, Yashoda saw the entire Brahmandam (creation of the entire Universe ) in His mouth. She was taken aback and doubted herself. Immediately, Krishna induced Maya and she forgot all she saw in His mouth.

Commentary:Krishna's childish pranks are very famous. Many poets ,in all Indian languages , have sung by praising Him and Yashoda's fortune in enjoying them. One such incident is the मृद्भक्षण लीला - ( the sport of Eating of earth lump).When she heard the incident, Yashoda was worried that eating earth would be harmful to the health of Krishna. When she saw Krishna looking with fear in His eyes alround, She made inquries and Balarama confirmed the statement of others. But Krishna denied this. So in order to remove the doubt, she asked Him to open the mouth. When Krishna opened His mouth, she saw the entire creation in it. She doubted her being conscious on seeing it. Then Krishna induced Maya so that she could become normal.Yashoda fondled Krishna as her child again

Parikshit on hearing this was so overwhelmed as how Yashoda should be so fortunate to have the Grace of Hari. When he asked Shuka about this , rishi told him that the one of the 8 Vasus was Drona and his wife was Dhara. They requested Brahma that they should be born on this earth so that they should develop devotion -Bhakthi- towards Hari. On being granted the boon by Brahma, they were born as Nanda and Yashoda in Gokulam.Krishna had become their son as well -as to keep up the boon of Brahma. This was the reason for Nanda and Yashoda to have affection on Krishna as a child to them. Not only that- Krishna exhibited His Love and Affection towards Yashoda by living in Vraja but also other residents. How Krishna reciprocated to the love affection of Yashoda -is the subject matter of chapter 9 (next)

For want of space , the various opinions and reasons and their interpretation of various verses are not given here.Hari Suri is at his best as a poet in describing this leela. There are 92 verses in his work - SHRI BHAKTHI RASAYANA- as against 52 verses in the Purana. One has to read them in original to enjoy the various interpretations.

Narayana Bhatta in Narayaneeyam also describes this episode in an exemplary manner ( see dashakam 46 ) . See verse 61 and64 in 2nd Asvada of Krishna Karnamritam of Lila

मन्थन्ती जननी दधि स्वशिशवे स्तन्यं ददाना जवा-

दुत्सृज्र्यैनमगा, दयं तु कुपितः पात्रं बभञ्जाश्मना;।

साƒƒयाता तु विलोक्य तत् स्मितमुखी यष्टिम् गृहीत्वा पुन-

स्त्यक्त्वा बालमुलूखले सकरुणं दाम्ना च बध्वा गता।

Meaning :Once when Yashoda was churning the curds, she was breastfeeding Krishna (as He came there and prevented her from churning and wanted to be breast fed first). As the milk she kept on the oven began to boil, she left Him and went inside to take care of the boiling milk by taking the vessel from the fire.Krishna became so angrythat He broke the pot with curds with a stone. When Yashoda came back , she saw the pot of curds which she was churning in a broken state all the curds spread on the ground. She laughed at that act first and went inside to find out as to where Krishna was. She saw Krishna sitting on a mortar - reversed in position - and giving the butter to his friends and animals. Seeing that her anger knew no bounds and she wanted to catch Him. But Krishna ran and Yashoda ran after Him with a stick in her hand. Finally when she could catch Him, Krishna started weeping by rubbing His eyes. She then dropped the stick and wanted to bind Him with a rope to the mortar so that He should not run away with the fear from her and also as a punishment for His having broken the pot for churning and taking butter for Krishna-her child. When she tried to tie Him with all the ropes- collected from her house for tieing cows and calves- either individually or tieing all together as one rope- she found that all the ropes were found short by TWO inches. She was wonder stuck and when all her friends were seeing her,she was tired. On seeing Yashoda's situation and with Mercy on her, Krishna allowed Himself to be bound by her. She bound him finally to the mortar. She then admonished Him (with affection at her heart - but as an outward expression to her friends). and then went inside.

This incident according to Sri Vishvanatha Chakravarthi (Srartha Darshani ) took place in the month of Karthka just before Deepavali festival . Therefore Karthika month is Damodara Masa (because of He was bound along His stomach).

Commentary: The उलूखल बन्धनं -लीला - (The episode of tying to the mortar by Yashoda )-demonstrates the supreme devotion -Bhakthi of Yashoda to Krishna as her child (without knowing that it was Hari -who had become her child) Yashoda as the epitome of वात्त्सल्य भक्ति (one of the six modes of love towards Vishnu ). This episode demonstrates as to how Hari is bound by Bhakthi and Bhakthas -भक्त वश्यता . Suka and Parikshit were so overwhelmed by enjoying such a bliss both in narration and listening to this episode. Suka says that neither Brahma (being His son), Shiva (being His other part) nor Lakshmi (being His consort ) did have the fortune what Yashoda had.Yashoda could tie the Brahman and Vishnu who is all pervading- which is well neigh impossible for any body. This shows Hari's भक्त वश्यता . Hari is bound by भक्त वश्यता and by - भक्ति alone.

Why the rope was short by 2 inches always ?

Hari Suri explains that to show to Yashoda and others that He is both Purna and Al lPervading. THEREFORE HE CANT BE BOUND.In view of this 2 qualities -the rope was 2 inches short.

Another reason- He is शुद्ध सत्व -having satva guna only. As rajo and tamo gunas can not be attributed to him as in the case of ordinary human beings - the rope was short by 2 inches.

2) The Brahman has no name or form (नाम रूपं ). To show this distinctly, -the rope was short by 2 inches.

Hari Suri attributes more reasons also. The verses of Hari Suri are reproduced below:

Narayana Bhatta in Narayaneeyam also is at his best in explaining this episode. There are श्लेष अलंकार

in verses 7 and 10 of Dashaka 47 .

Many poets have described this episode from their own points of view.

पुत्रौ वैश्रवणस्य नारदमुने वाचा द्रुमत्वं गतौ

नाम्ना यौ नलकूबरोƒपि च मणिग्रीवः पुरा तस्थातुः।

कृष्णोलूखलमर्दधूतचरणौ वृक्षौ पतित्वा भुवि

स्तुत्वा ""त्वत्पदभक्तिमेव सततं देही''त्यमू जग्मतुः।।
Meaning; The two sons of Kubera (Vaishravana) - by name Nalakubara and Manigriva became two arjuna trees in the Gokulam due to the curse of Narada Muni.Krishna with the mortar tied to his back went across those two arjuna trees. The trees fell with a loud thud and sound . From the two arjuna trees two yakshas came out and offered their prayer to Krishna- " Kindly grant us the chance to devote ourselves to Your Lotus feet always with Bhakthi" After praying thus and getting Krishna's permission and advised by Him returned to their abode.
Commentary; As Parikshit asked Suka to narrate the story as to why Nalakubara and Manigriva became two arjuna trees by the curse of Narada Muni. Suka then narrated the story. Nalakubara and Manigriva were the two sons of Kubera. They were attendants to Rudra and did not care about Vishnu. They were intoxicated with pride. In Kailasa, in the Mandakini river after consuming the liquor (Varuni ) they were sporting with many women in the water. Allof them were without any clothes. When Narada happened to come there all the women hurriedly put on their dresses. But the two sons of Kubera with the pride in them due to the intoxication and of wealth, did not do so and they were naked. Seeing this Narada felt that the two should become trees in Gokulam so that they will get rid of their pride and would become devotees of Hari. So the two became two arjuna trees in Gokulam. SriKrishna in order to honour Narada's curse, went along with the mortar tied to his back across the two arjuna trees. The trees fell with a very loud noise and the two came out of those two trees and offered their prayers to Krishna (Vishnu ) . Krishna told them that He knew the curse of Narada who cursed them out of mercy and as a Grace to themand worship Him with devotion Then they went away. Thus the two devotees of Shiva also became the devotees of
11

श्रुत्वाƒƒयाता द्रुपातारवमखिलजना विस्मितास्ते; फलानि

क्रीत्वा कृष्णो दरिद्रामकृत धनवतीं दत्तरत्न:; सरामः।

गत्वा वृन्दावनान्तं सह सुहृदजितो वत्सपालो वनान्ते

हत्वा दैत्यौ च वत्सं बकमपि विबुधै नन्दजो नन्दितोƒभूत्।।

Meaning: Hearing the loud sound of the two trees falling , all the people nearby came running and saw Krishna having crossed beyond the trees and his back tied to the mortar.Nanda released Krishna from the bondage. ALL gopalas and gopikas were surprised as to how the two trees fell.When the children said that they saw Krishna went across the two trees with the mortar, many did not believe it and many believed that it would have happened also. Krishna made a woman who was poor and selling the fruits , a rich person- by filling grains with His hands and the grains were transformed into diamonds.Seeing that Krishna was facing danger to His life, UpaNanda advised Nanda and others to move to Brindavana from Gokulam. All of them moved to Brindavanam.

Krishna and Balarama started to look after the calves. One day when they went to the forest for grazing of the calves, a rakshasa by name Vatsasura came in the form of a calf. Krishna killed him.On an other occasion,, they noticed a big form of a duck near a lake. He was Bakasura who came to kill Krishna. Krishna killed him by tearing his beaks-who was tormenting Him with fire from his beaks. The devas showered the flowers on Him and offered their prayers. Nanda was very happy to hear the exploits of his son.

Commentary: After the trees fell, Nanda came there and released Krishna from the bondage.All of them moved to Brindavanam. Brindavanam was rich in natural resources. Krishna saw the Yamuna river and was very happy. Krishna and Balarama were asked to look after the calves. They took regularly all the calves to the forest for grazing. They killed Vatsasura and Bakasura who came to kill them -ordered by Kamsa. Nanda and others felt that what Gargacharya told about Krishna had become true. Garga told that who hate Krishna would be perished and who love Krishna would get liberation.They were happy in remembering Krishna always and forgot their

कृष्णो गोपकुमारकाश्चविपिने क्रीडैकलोला गुहा-

बुध्या ते शयुरूपिणोƒघदनुजस्यास्यं प्रविष्टाः जवात्।

देवानां मिषतां गतासुरसुरः सायुज्यमुÏक्त गतो

बालाश्चापि मृताः पुनर्भगवतो दृष्ट्वा त उत्थापिताः।

Meaning: Krishna ,accompanied by other gopa boys (shepherd boys) once went to the forest for a picnic. There a rakshasa by name -Aghasura- was lying in the form of a huge python with his mouth wide open. Balarama did not accompany them for this picnic. The demon was waiting all the boys and Krishna to enter his mouth so that he could kill all of them very easily.He was the brother of Puthana and Bakasura and wating to take revenge for their deaths. When all the boys entered his mouth in ignorance about the truth and the danger awaiting them, Krishna entered his mouth and suddenly made His body grew into a big form. The demon could not breathe and was dead. Krishna and all the boys were saved by the glance of Krishna. Aghasura got sayujya because of Krishna's touch.

Commentary: All the boys who accompanied Krishna with their lunch boxes for the picnic were innocent.They entered the mouth of the demon thinking that it was a cave. Krishna knew the danger awiting them. He entered the mouth of the python and allowed His body to grow in size to such a big form that the demon could not breathe and consequently died. The boys who entered the mouth of the python were dead because of the poison and unable to breathe. Krishna restored them back to life by His side glance.

Suka told Parikshit that this incident took place when Krishna was 5 years old. But the people in Brindavanam came to know from the children -who were rescued from the python by Krishna about this incident ,when Krishna was 6 years old. Hearing this Parikshit asked Suka that how could this happen- when the incident took place when Krishna was 5 years old and the boys could describe as if it had happened then after one year when Krishna was 6 years old. Why this time lag?. Suka proceeded to narrate the reasons and this forms the subject matter for the chapters 13 & 14

कृष्णे गोपैः समेतेƒदति कबलमजो माययाƒƒच्छाद्य वत्सान्

गोपांश्च व्योम्नि तस्था,वथ हरिरदधाद् गोपवत्सादिरूपं।

द्वेधा वत्सांश्च गोपान् शतधृतिरितरत्रापि पश्यन् विमोहाद्

भूयो दृष्ट्वा च सर्वं हरिमयमुदितोत्कण्ठमस्तौद् विनम्रः

Meaning : Krishna then took all the boys to a pond nearby and all of them were enjoying their picnic by sharing their food with each other. Krishna made them eat their food by telling and sharing jokes with them. Brahma saw the Aghasura Moksham and was surprised. In the mean time all the calves went far away in search of grass for grazing. Noticing this all the boys were worried for their whereabouts. Krishna pacified them to continue to take their food and went in the search of the calves. Finding that they are not found any where, Krishna came to know by His Divine insight that it was the Brahma who had done this with a view to test Him.So Krishna assumed Himself the form of all shepherd boys, calves, and other anciliaries to them such as dresses ,horns and other things. Seeing the shepherd boys and calves in two places, Brahma was in stupor. On meditating Hari, he came to see all of them in the form of Vishnu.Brahma was so overwhelmed with joy and wonder . He prostrated before Krishna and offered His prayers to Krishna.

Commentary: Brahma wanted to test Krishna He made both the boys and calves disappear by inducing his illusion or Maya. Krishna knew this and in order to make Brahma know that the disappearance of the boys and calves did not affect Him, Krishna- who is Paripurna Brahman -assumed the form of boys and calved for one year. Neither the cows nor the gopis in the Gokulam did not find any difference between their calves and sons. This went on for one year At the end of the one year period, when Brahma cam to Gokulam , he saw the same calves and boys in both at Gokulam and at the place where he hid them one year ago. He was wonder-struck. Then he realised that Krishna was Vishnu. He was rid of his pride. Brahma prostrated before Krishna and offered his prayers to Krishna.

नौमीड्याभ्राभ! कृष्णं करधृतमुरलीवेत्रश्रृंगं; ममाƒƒगः

सर्वं भूमन्! क्षमस्व; प्रभुरसि जगतां, देव! भूयो नमस्ते।

एवं स्तुत्वा गतेƒस्मिन् सरसमुपविशन् गोपसंघैः समेतो

भुक्त्वा क्रीडन् हरिः स्वैः कथितनिजयशा वन्यभूषो निवृत्तः।

Meaning: " O ! One fit to be worshipped ! One resembling black clouds! I prostrate before You-having the flute.horn and stick in your hands ( appearing like a gopala). O! All Pervading ! kindly excuse me for my wrong doing.You are the Master of the entire creation of Brahmanda.(Universe). I prostrate before you again and again." After offering prayers in this manner. Brahma went away.Krishna along with cow-herd boys ate the food along with them, played with them and decorating Himself with all the forest flowers and materials available there-and returned home along with calves and cow-herd boys.

Commentary: Brahma Stuthi is a very important one - this is in verses 1 to 40 of chapter 14. This prayer is on Nirguna Brahman and based on upanishadic sayings.Parikshit wondered as to how all the gopas and gopis and cows were attracted to the forms assumed by Krishna than their own. Suka replied that the Atma in self is always loved by every one and Krishna being Paramatma was in every Jivatma. Narration of these Aghasura vadham and Brahma Mohanam will result in fulfilment of all desires..

गोवत्सैः सहितस्तु धेनुकवनं प्राप्तो बलो लीलया

तालान् कम्पयति स्म; धेनुकमहादैत्यं खरं सानुगं।

हत्वा तालफलानि वै निजसुहृद्भ्योƒदात्; स्तुतः स्वानुगैः

कृष्णेन त्रिदशैश्च सायमटवीतोƒयं निवृत्तोƒभवत्।।

Meaning: Balarama and Krishna went to the forest full of palm trees, along with their friends and calves.ITn hat forest a demon by name Dhenuka wal living with other rakshasa - all of them in the form of donkeys. Balarama shook the palm trees and the palm fruits fell on the ground. Then Dhenuka and the other demons confronted Balarama. Balarama killed Dhenuka. Balarama and Krishna then killed all other rakshasas who came after Dhenuka was killed in the battle. Balarama and Krishna then gave the palm fruits to all his friends.All of them- Krishna, devas, and all His friends showered praises to Balarama for killing Dhenuka and others. In the evening all of them returned to their homes from the forest.

Commentary: Dhenuka and his associates were cannibals. So no human being used to go to that forest. Sridhama who was the friend of Krishna and Balarama told them about the Dhenuka and other demons living there. All of them wanted the palm fruits also. In order to satisfy the wishes of his friends, all of them went to the forest. As Dhenuka and others confronted them, Balarama killed all the demons and made the forest for every body to go there. As the demons had the fortune of being killed by Balarama and Krishna, all of them attained mukthi.

कालिन्दीविषतोयपानमृतगोगोपान् कटाक्षैर् निजै-

रुत्थाप्यात्र जले निपत्य विहरन् संक्षोभयन् कालियं।

कृष्णः कङ्कणकिङ्किणीकलरवै नृत्यन् फणेषूद्धतं

चक्रे वान्तविषं नतं च; भगवान् नागीभिरुच्चैः स्तुतः।।
Meaning: The cows and the cowherds were dead after drinking the water which was poisoned due to the presence of a serpent with many hoods by name Kaliya. By His glance Krishna made them get up again with life.. Krishna got into a tall Kadamba tree and jumped into Yamuna and by swimming and moving around made Kaliya unable to move.Then Krishna climbed over the hoods of Kaliya and danced so that His braclets and anklets joined Him in the dance. He made Kaliya vomit all his poison. He made that proud serpent a humble one. All the wives of Kaliya prayed to Krishna.
Commentary: Kaliya was living in Yamuna for a very long time. Many birds , if they happened to fly over the Yamuna river ,they fell dead due to the severity of poison. Once when the cows and cowherds happened to drink the water of Yamuna , they fell dead. Krishna brought them back to life by His glance. Then He decided to subdue the serpent. He jumped from a tall Kadamba tree into the river. Hearing the sound, Kaliya came and bound Krishna for a moment. In the mean time Yashoda, Nanda and the other residents of Brindavanam came to know that Krishna had jumped into the river. They came running to see Him. All cattle and people were prevented by Balarama, as He knew the strength of Krishna. Krishna relesed Himself quickly and got on to the hoods of Kaliya. He danced from hood to hood by jumping. All the celestials had assembled to watch Krishna dance. Kaliya could not tolerate and vomitted blood and poison. As he was about to lose his life, the wives of Kaliya came and prayed to Krishna to save their husband's life.Kaliya also prayed for his protection. Krishna advised Kaliya to leave Yamuna and go to Ramanaka island. Krishna assured Kaliya that Garuda will not harm him there. Kaliya left for Ramanaka with his wife and children. From that time Yamuna became safe for human use , as the river was totally rid of all poison.The wives of Kaliya worshipped Krishna with dresses and jewllery.
The Kaliya mantra is given below:

श्रीकृष्ण्स्य कालिय नृत्य मन्त्रं

कालियस्य फणामध्यॆ दिव्यं नृत्तं कारोति
नमामि देवकीपुत्रं नृत्यराजानमच्यूतम् ॥

पत्नीभिः सह कालियो रमणकद्वीपं गतः श्रीहरेः

पादस्पर्शविधूतगारूडभयो; सा निर्विषाƒभून्नदी।

पित्रोरन्तिकमागतश्च भगवा,नूषुश्च रात्रौ बने

गोपास्तं भयदं वनाग्निमपिबत् कृष्णो जगत्पालकः।।

Meaning: For Kaliya with his wives , as a result of the sacred touch of Krishna'a feet , the fear from Garuda was totally removed. He left for Ramanka Dvipa along with his wives. From that day Yamuna river became pure and its poisonous nature was totally removed.Krishna approached His parents Nanda and Yashoda, who were very happy to see Krishna. All of them spent the night in a forest.During the night time a wild forest fire broke out and all the cow herds , surrendered themselves to Krishna to save them from the fearful forest fire.Krishna, who had incarnated to protect the world as- Jagatpalaka,simply drank that fire with His mouth and all of them were saved.

Commentary:Parikshit asked Shuka as to why Kaliya left Ramanaka Dvipa where he was there earlier. Suka narrated the reaon behind this. As Kaliya was eating the food offered by the serpents to Garuda , Garuda wanted to fight with him.. So Kaliya left Ramanaka from the fear of Garuda and came to Yamuna river. Because of a curse by Saubhari that Garuda would become lifeless if he happened to come and eat the fishes in Yamuna river. This was known to Kaliya and no other serpent.

Brahmanas came there and asked Nanda to give dana for Krishna's return from Yamuna -unharmed Nanda gave them cows and gold in charity. Yashoda embraced Krishna and could not control her tears for having got Krishna back with life. During the night when the forest fire broke out all of them surrendered to Krishna. Krishna who had immeasurable strength. drank the fire and saved them.

द्वन्दीभूय यथायथं च सुहृदो लीलारणं चक्रिरे

जेतृनूहुरयं जिता इह मिथः कृष्णः सखायं जितः।

श्रीदामानमधत्त; तत्र विजितो दैत्यः प्रलंबो वहन्

रामं तूर्णमधावदेनमवधीद् रामः सुरैः पूजितः।।

Meaning:Krishna and Balarama were playing in two groups. One group was led by Krishna and the other group was led by Balarama. The group , which was defeated in the wresling match, should carry the winners on their back. With this condition all of them were playing a wrestling match. One asura who was encouraged by Kamsa to kill Krishna , by mame Pralambasura came there and wanted to participate in the game. Krishna knowing his intention allowed him in His group. When the game was over, Krishna's group was defeated. As per the rules of the game Krishna and his group members carried the winning group. Krishna carried His friend Shridama on His back. When it was Pralambasura's turn to carry Balarama, he carried him on his shoulders and ran away into the forest . Balarama was taken aback but struck him forcibly with His fists on his head and Pralambasura fell dead. All of them praised Balarama for the act of killing Pralambasura and showered with flowers and garlands.

Commentary: When Pralabasura knew that it was not possible for him to kill Krishna, he wanted to kill Balarama. But Balarama was very strong for him and killed the asura. In the beginning of this chapter , the sports and games -all these cowherds played in the forest while grazing the cattle and when they wanted to play- all these details are described.

गावः क्रीडनलोलुपेषु निखिलेष्वाप्ताश्च मुञ्जाटवीं

सद्यः काननवह्निमेव परितो दृष्ट्वा भयाकम्पिताः।

कृष्णो मीलितलोचनेषु सकलेष्वापीय दावानलं

भाण्डीरं च निनाय ता उरुकृपो गोपा भृशं विस्मिताः।।

Meaning: When the cowherds were engaged in the play in the forest all the cows strayed into the forest and reached the place full of kusha grass (a grass used for religious purposes). They were unable to come out. When they were crying , Krishna called them by their names and they responded to his rely.In the mean time a wild fire broke out and they were helpless.The cowherds were caught in the wild fire. Again they appealed to Krishna to save them. Krishna told them to close their eyes. When they did so,Krishna drank the fire with His mouth. All of them found themselves back in the place called Bhandira . THe gopas (cowherds) were surprised at the YogaMaya of Krishna and thought that He was from heaven.

Commentary: Let us see what Hari Suri says for Krisna;s drinking the fire by His mouth,

Hari Suri quotes from Vedas that Devas are fed throgh Agni and He being Supreme drank the fire (Agni) itself by His mouth.

वर्षर्त्तौ गगनं घनावृतमपो भूमाववर्षद् यथा

कृष्णो भक्तजने कटाक्षमचला वर्षेण नो बाधिताः।

भक्ताश्च व्यसनै यथा, शरदृतौ निर्मेघमभ्रं मनो

भक्तानामिव राजते स्म हरिणा चानन्दितं गोकुलम्।

Meaning: The clouds are the cause for raining copiously in the rainy season (Varsha Ritu). Similarly Krishna showers His Grace on the devotees. The mountains are stationary and are not at all affected by rains. This is similar to the situation wherein true devotees of Krishna are never affected by any grief and difficulties. During Sharat Ritu (October-November) the sky do not have clouds similar to rainy season and is very clear. This is similar to the situation when the hearts of the devotees are pure. Krishna made one and all very happy

Commentary: Sridharacharya's commentary in the beginning of chapter 20 is reproduced.

These verses in the commentaries are self explanatory. They describe the central theme of this chapter. This chapter is full of similies as a figure of speech. Please read the chapter of the
21

कृष्णो रामेण सार्धं शरदृतुकुसुमालंकृतो वेणुगीतैर्

गोवत्सान् गोपबालान् हरिणखगनगान् किञ्च गोवर्धनार्द्रिम्।

सर्वांश्चाƒƒनन्दयामास च कलनिनदैर् गोपनार्यस्तु कृष्णं

स्मारं स्मारं सकामाः प्रतिदिनममला वर्णयन्त्यो बभूवुः।।

Meaning: Krishna accompanied by Balarama was decorated with the flowers of the season of Sharat Ritu went into the forest and sang with his flute. Hearing the sound coming from His flute all the cowherds, calves,animals ,birds, trees and even the Govardhana mountain , all were spell bound and captivated by the sound of flute. Gopies on remembering of His songs in the flute were so much attracted to Him that their love knew no bounds.They were describing it daily and remembering them and became so pure in their hearts and minds and were unable to forget Krishna.

Commentary; Sarartha Darshani says;

This chapter describes what is called " VENU GEETHAM " BY THE GOPIKAS. Gopikas after hearing the Venu geetham of Krishna in the forest describe as to how the cows, calves, birds, trees , rishis, and the mountain - all of them are captivated by the song and sound coming from Krishna's flute. Gopikas on their part were singing the song daily and was attracted towards Krishna and their love towards Him and all of them became Krishna themselves. They identified themselves both in soul and mind as Krishna Himself. The verses in original are superb and a translation can not describe the feelings in an apt and correct manner.

हेमन्ते किल गोपिका भगवतीं संपूज्य संप्रार्थयन्;

""कृष्णो मे पतिरस्तु सुन्दर'' इति श्रद्धाविशुद्धान्तराः;।

ता ज्ञात्वा च शरीरमानरहिता वस्त्रापहारेण स

प्रोचे- "रात्रिषु वः स्पृहाः शरदृतौ साध्या, इतो गच्छत'।।

Meaning:It was Hemantha Ritu ( approximately from December 15 to February 15 th ).The gopikas -all of them loved Krishna with their heart and soul. They were observing a vow called- Katyayani Vratham. Every day early morning before sun rise, all of them would go to Yamuna. After bathing in the river, they would make an idol of Kathyayani ( Durga) in sand and would worship that idol with all offerings- such as flowers, food items and other items of worship. They would pray to Her -" Kindly grant our wish that Krishna-the Beautiful be my husband". This was the regular practice for that two months period.On one occasion when they were bathing in the river,- by keeping all their clothes on the bank of the river. Krishna-knowing well about their intentions-took away all their dresses and climbed on the top of a tree. When they rquested Him to give their dresses-as they were in the neck deep water without their dresses on them in the winter- Krishna asked them to come out of the water and ask for their dresses individually -by keeping their hands above their heads-if they wanted their dresses back.Krishna told them-because by bathing in the river without their dresses they had committed a sin and a lapse. All of them did as He told them to do. Their dresses were returned back to them. Krishna told them that in the Sharad Ritu (15 th October to 15 th December) - their wishes would be fulfilled . He asked them to go back to their homes .

Commentary: This episode of " VASTHRAPAHARANA LEELA " has to be interpreted from the spiriual angle. So far we attach -" SELF- ME - I " feeling to our body and sensory organs, it might not be possible for us to progress in the spiritual path-let alone achieve perfection. This was the reason Krishna took away their dresses.To make them realise -that they should get rid of " BODY CONSCIOUSNESS" in them.

What the commentaries say for this chapter is reproduced below:

How all of them prayed and the mantram they chanted daily is reproduced. This is an useful one for all of us also.

What Hari Suri says-one example:

क्षुत्पीडाहतगोपबालकगणैरन्नं द्विजा याचिता

न प्रत्यूचुरतः स्त्रियः ससुहृदे कृष्णाय गत्वा वनं।

बह्वन्नं प्रददुस्तदा पतिनिरुद्धैका शरीरं विहा-

याƒƒप्ता तत्पद;मृत्विजः सुमनसः प्रत्युद्ययुस्ताः स्त्रियः।।

Meaning : This chapter' central theme is " Yagna Patni Upakhyanam ".After instructing the gopikas , Krishna and His friends and Balarama went into a forest well beyond Vrindavana for grazing the cows. All the cowherds were hungry and thirsty in the forest. So they approached Krishna and Balarama to help them to get food and water. Krishna with a view to grant the wishes of the wives of Brahmanas - who were engaged in performing a sacrifice- asked all the cowherds to approach the Brahmanas on the first occasion.When they did so, Brahmanas-who were more interested in performing the rituals in a mechanical manner without understanding their import and purport of the Vedic rituals- did not oblige the cowherds with the food and water, as they thought that by obliging them they will be acting in an improper manner. All of them then returned and requested Krishna again. Krishna , knowing the refusal of the Brahmanas. then asked them to approach the WIVES of Brahmanas with the same request. When they did so ,the wives of Brahmanas , after knowing that it was Krishna - who had come and asking for the food - all of them hurriedly came there with all food stuff - in four kinds- and prayed to Krishna. Krishna then accepted the food offered by them and made all the cowherds partake the food and their hunger was removed. Krishna then asked all the women folk to go back and help their husbands in the sacrifice.

It is said that one Brahmana prevented his wife from going and seeing Krishna. She meditated on Him and got the 'MUKTHI' . The brahmanas after hearing and noticing the BHAKTHI - what their wives had towards Krishna - regretted their ignorance in not recognizing Krishna-Supreme Brahman-what all Vedas describe -and for involving themselves in conducting the rituals without understanding their puropse.Because they were afraid of Kamsa, they did not go and see Krishna

Commentary: This episode emphasizes the importance of performing the sacrifices-यज्ञ .THREE IMPORTANT PARTS OF IT ARE -दानं ,पूजा .सत्सङ्गं (charity, worship of idols and living entities-seeing the oneness in them, and association of mahatmas. All the three were absent in the performance of the brahmanas. Whereas their wives had BHAKTHI towards Krishna and did not follow the rules of the sacrifice mechanically. They understood the real purpose of performing the sacrifices.THEY had -भक्ति एवं ज्ञानं - Devotion with knowledge. But Brahmanas had कर्मानुष्ठानं विना ज्ञानं- performance of sacrifices without Knowledge.

So we should observe our karma with Knowledge. This is the lesson for us from this episode.

The extracts from various commentaries are reproduced:

The meanings of the above is self explanatory.

कृष्णो दृष्ट्वेन्द्रयागोत्सुकमखिलजनं नन्दमूचे "पितः किं

कर्तासीन्द्रेण नः किं? भवतु गिरिमखः, पूज्यतां विप्रसंघः'

गोपाश्चक्रुर्यथोक्तं सकलमचलरूपोƒघसत् स्थूलकायः

कृष्णो दत्तं बलिं तैर्; गिरिवरमनमन्, सादरं ते सकृष्णाः।

Meaning: The central theme of chapters 24 to 27 covers "INDRA GARVA BHANGAM " episode.

Krishna observed that all the cowherds and His father Nanda were engaged themselves in the preparation for conducting a sacrifice to please Indra.Krishna told Nanda with all humility -" Dear Father! What are you doing?What have we to do with Indra? Let us perform the sacrifice for the Govardhana Mountain.Let us also worship the assembly of Brahmanas ". All of them did the same thing as was advised by Krishna.Krishna assumed the form of Govardhana Giri also in It- as He was a Virat Purusha- and accepted all the puja and the offerings to it.All of them prostrated to the Govardhana Giri-and Krishna in that form- with all respect and humility., along with Krishna, who also prostrated to the mountain.

Commentary; Nanda and others were performing a sacrifice to please Indra every year. Indra was proud by nature. Krishna wanted to subdue his pride. So He asked his father about the purpose of that sacrifice. When Nanda told HIM the reasons, Krishna convinced all of them that the rains were a natural phenominon and Indra had nothing to with that. So if a sacrifice had to be performed it was proper that it should be done to the for the Govardhana Giri which had been providing them with all essentials fio their lives. A sacrifice to the devas in this Earth -for Brahmanas (who are devas in this Earth ) was a proper thing to do.Convinced by the logic in this proposal, Nanda and others did as was suggested by Krishna. Krishna , in order to convince the others assumed the form of the mountain also and accepted all the offerings.

The views of the commentaries for this chapter is given below:

ज्ञात्वेदं कुपितो वृषा स्ववचसा गोपांश्च निन्दन् हरिं

मेघान् प्रेरयति स्म; वर्षजलतो गोगोपकाः पीडिताः।

कृष्णश्छत्रमिवोद्वहन् गिरिवरं सप्ताहमासारतः

सर्वान् पालयति स्म; वृत्ररिपुणा मेघास्ततो वारिताः।।

Meaning Indra came to know that the sacrifice meant for him was not performed and Nanda and others had responded to the suggestion of Krishna. Anger overtook him and he used very harsh words and ridiculed Krishna and other cowherds. He thought that he was the controller of the clouds and rains and do untold damage to all of them for having ignored him. So he ordered the clouds to rain continuously and in such a manner to flood the entire area -with hail storm and ice blocks. The entire Gokulam was tormented by him.

Knowing that it was the Indra's act due to anger, Krishna in order to teach him a lesson told all of them not to be afraid of the rains. He said that Govardhana Giri would protect all of them in this calamity. He uprooted the Govardhana Giri and held with the index finger of his left hand -similar to a child holds a mushroom in his hand - and stood in the same position in a steady manner for SEVEN DAYS continuously. All the people took refuge underneath the mountain and thus were unaffected by the floods and rains.Indra could not stand to induce rains for more than seven days. Ultimately Indra was subdued and the sky became clear.

Commentary: It is Indra's ignorance that he was the controller of every thing. When Bhagavan is omnipotent ,it was his folly to ignore Him. Hari in order to subdue his pride held the mountain in his hand in that lifted position for 7 days.Krishna was then seven years old .Patience is the hall mark of the great. This was taught to Indra by Krishna's action.Let us read what commentaries say.

पृष्टो नन्द उवाच विस्मयवतो गोपान् ""कुमारं प्रति

श्रीगर्गो मुनिराह'' विष्णुसदृशो बालोƒयमस्याƒश्रिताः।

शत्रोर्भिभ्यति नो; पुरा च वसुदेवस्याƒƒत्मजोƒयं; सतो

रक्षन् कर्म सदा करोति विविधं ज्ञेयश्च न स्या'' दिति।।

Meaning: Seeing that Krishna,who was a boy of 7 years old holding a big mountain with his one finger for 7 days continuously , all the cowherds doubted about Krishna being a human.They recounted all his actions- in the case of- Puthana,Shakatasura. Trinavartha, Destruction of two arjuna trees by going across them with the mortar tied to his back, killing of Bakasura, Vatsasura,Dhenukasura,Pralambasura , Subduing of Kaliya. They told Nanda that they had a doubt about His birth as an ordinary human being.Nanda then reassured them as to what Gargacharya told him about Krishna - " Krishna is like Vishnu . Earlier He should have been the son of Vasudeva.I know about the various names and actions of Vasudeva and others do not know about it.Those who love Him will not have any enemiesHe will protect the good people.. He is like Narayana in possessing all qualities . I think that Krishna is a part of Narayana".

Hearing Nanda telling them about Krishna, as having been told by Garga, all the cowherds were convinced

and worshipped Nanda.

Commentary:Nanda did not tell all what Garga told him about Krishna and Balarama (see chapter 8). He told the cowherds only that part ,enough to convince them about Krishna.

लज्जानम्रमुखो वृषा हृतमदः प्राप्तो व्रजं नन्दजं

स्तुत्वा प्राणमदच्युतस्य मधुरालापेन चाƒश्वासितः।

गोविन्दं पयसाƒभ्यषिञ्चदधुना श्रीकामधेनु;स्तदा

सर्वे तुष्टुवुरच्युतं; समभवत् सर्वत्र सन्मंगलम्।।

Meaning: Indra seeing that his action to take revenge for not performing the sacrifice for him was unsuccessful and thus his ego was subdued by Krishna, he was ashamed about his act and came to see Krishna with his head -bowed down.He offered his prayers to Krishna and asked for His pardon for his folly.Krishna consoled Indra with His sweet words and in a polite manner.Kamadhenu came from the heaven . Instructed by Brahma, Kamadhenu along with other celestial cows-which were her progeny bathed Krishna with the milk and also by Iravatha with the water from AkashaGanga ( Ganges in heaven ).Then Indra named Krishna as " GOVINDA". The Earth was blessed with all welfare alround. Indra went back to the heaven accompanied by other devas.

Commentary:Kamadhenu prayed to Krishna-" You are our protector. You are the protector of cows, brahmanas and Vedas. It is not Indra, who is our protector.We know that You hane incarnated as Krishna for reducing the burden on the Earth . We will bathe you with our milk ,as instructed by Brahma "

एकादश्युपवासिनं व्रजपतिं स्नातं जले चासुरो

लोकं वारुणमानयद्, हरिरपि प्रत्यानयत् तं व्रजं;।

गोपानां च सनातनं निजपदं सत्यं परं दर्शितं

कृष्णेन, व्रजवासिनः पररसे मग्नास्ततश्चोद्घृताः।।

Meaning:On an Ekadashi Day (11th day in a fortnight) Nanda observed fast as prescribed in the scriptures.He went to Yamuna on the Dwadashi day for bathing in the river.As it was night at that time, Nanda was taken by a asura to the world of Varuna.Krishna then went to the Varunaloka to bring back His father Nanda. Varuna on seeing Krishna offered his worship to Him and prayed as well.Varuna gave Nanda back to Krishna. Krishna brought him back to Vrindavanam. Nanda narrated all what he saw at Varunaloka and the worship offered to Krishna by Varuna.All the other cowherds after hearing from Nanda and based on their experiences thought that Krishna was Vishnu-Paramatma and entertained a desire that Krishna should show them the Vaikunta-His abode. Krishna also thought that the jivas are so much conernred about their actions which lead them to the rebirths and they do not know their real Self- Brahma. Having thought in this manner, Krishna showed His Vaikunta Loka to all of them. Nanda and others were immersed in the Brhmananda Rasa. When they came back to this world again Nanda was very much surprised to see Vedas worshipping Krishna.
Commentary: Nanda and others saw Krishna's- Saguna and Saakara Rupa in Vrindavanam. They were shown by Krishna- His Nirakaara and Nirguna Svarupam in Vaikunta.

वृन्दारण्ये दिनान्ते शशिकरधवले वेणुगीतैः स्मरार्ता

गोपीराहूय कृष्णः पतिगृहसुतदेहादिकं विस्मरन्तीः।

निस्संगो योगमायी स्मरविजयमहानाटके मारलीलाः

कुर्वन्नानन्दयामास स; सुभगतया चोन्मदास्ता बभूवुः।।

Meaning: During the full moon night , Bhagavan Krishna -who was alone and with the invocation of YogaMaya statred to sing on the flute in the sand on the bank of Vrindavanam. The moonlight was very bright.The gopis , on hearing the sweet tunes coming from His flute were attracted to him out of love towards Him. They forgot what they were doing and in what situation they were, what they were wearing - all of them started to reach the spot from where the flute songs came.Krishna was enacting this drama and act with the sole purpose of -KAMA VIJAYA ( CONQUERING OF DESIRES). But He was involving the gopikas in the amorous glances and expression of sexual love.They were in ecstasy in His company. Consequently all of them had developed a sense of pride that Krishna belongs to them alone.

Commentary : The chapters 29 to 33 - FIVE CHAPTERS DESCRIBE RASA LEELA OF KRISHNA WITH GOPIES. Krishna was around 10 years of age and the gopikas also were so young. So the sexual desire alone is not the reason for this episode. The commentators ascribe vedantic or philosophical meanings hidden in this episode.Their opinions are reproduced:

Sri Vishvanatha Chakravarthi had taken pains to estabiilsh that Krishna was 8 years old when this episode of RasaLeela took place. But Giridhara Goswami 's contention is that Krishna should be a Kishora-above 9 years of age. The fact remains irrespective of the differences of opinion that Krishna was too young-to attribute sexual activity like humans. As Sridharacharya says it is the Union between Jivathma with Paramathma.

This aspect has to be kept in our minds when we narrate RASA LEELA.

The gopikas were so much influenced by the song coming from Krishna's flute that they forgot themselves.

Krishna told them to go back to their residences. But they surrendered themselves to Him. So Krishna wanted to satisfy them. Hence the amorous advances

कृष्णश्चान्तर्दधे तत्क्षण;मतिविवशा वृक्षवल्लीमृगादीन्

पप्रच्छुः ""किं सुहृद् वो नयनसुमधुरो गोपिकाचित्तचोरः।

यत्र क्वापीह दृष्टः स'' इति यदुवरान्वेषणव्यग्रचित्ताः

श्रीकृष्णाराधिकां ता ददृशुरपि जगुः कृष्णमुच्चै रुदन्त्यः।।

Meaning:AT the very moment all the gopikas were proud that Krishna was their possession and was under their control- Krishna disappeared from their midst. Finding that Krishna was missing suddenly, all of them could not bear His absence. They went in search of Him. They were so mad with love that they were asking the trees, creepers to show them as to where Krishna-Their Beloved -had gone and wanted them to reply.They were asking thus-" Your Dear Friend- Who is very pleasing and sweet to the Eyes- The Thief of Gopies'Hear ts and Mind- Where is He?- Is He here some where?- Have you seen Him?" .In this manner they were searching that great Yaduvara . On the way they saw AARADHIKA (RADHA ). RADHA told her woes that Krishna left her also. They asked as to how this happened.She said that she asked Krishna to carry her on His back. Krishna carried her for some distance. Suddenly He dropped her and disappeared.All of them were wonder struck after hearing the desertion of Krishna ,even to Radha- who was His favourite gopi. All of them searched Krishna in the forest and were tired as it was in the night. All of them assembled again on the river bank - where Krishna left them. They started singing His qualities. They wept bitterly , as they could bear His separation no more. Their minds souls and bodies -all had one thought- " KRISHNA" and nothing else. In the next chapter 31 - called - " GOPIKA GEETHAM " they express their sorrow in His separation. This is called विप्रलम्भ शृङ्गार रसं

दयित! तव कथांभस्नानशुद्धा वयं; त्वं

व्रजजनभयहन्ता दृश्यसे न क्व गन्ता?।

अधरमधुरसो नो दीयतां; ते करौ नः

शिरसि किमु निधेहि? त्वत्सुखान्नः सुखं स्यात्।

Meaning; They sang- " O! Beloved! We have become pure by listening to Your Stories-which are a nectar to our ears.You had removed the fears of the residents of Vrindavana in the past. But you have disappeared now.Where have you gone? Please give us the pleasure of Your Lips (meaning with passionate kisses ).Will You not lay Your Hands on our heads (meaning -we want Your protection ). Your Happiness is alone our happiness as well (meaning that we all surrender to You ) "

Commentary : This " Gopika Geetham " is full of vedantic sayings and connotations. One has to read all the commentaries to have better understanding of this chapter. Some extracts from the commentaries given below which explain the cental theme of this chapter.

तासामाविरभून्मृदुस्मितमुखः पीतांबरो माधव-

स्ताभिस्तत्र निषण्ण आह ""दयिताः! श्रान्ता भवत्यो वृथा;।

युष्माभिः समत्र न मया त्यक्ता भवत्यो ध्रुवं

न त्यक्ताः स्युरिदं कृतं तु मयि वः सत्प्रेमपुष्ट्यै भृशम्।।

Meaning: When all of them were lamenting on His separation , Krishna-The Beautiful and Handsome among All the Handsome Persons in the Universe- appeared before them. Sitting in the middle of their assembly, Krishna told - " O! My Beloved Ones! All of you have become miserable and dejected unnecessarily.I was very much among all of you.I have neither forsaken you or left you here.In future also I will never forsake you or leave you . Whatever I had done is to ensure that Your Love and Devotion to ME gets increased manyfold and forever. "

Commentary:The physical separation had ensured that their Devotion and Love towards Krishna had increased many times. The Devotion had become permanent.Let us see the commentaries :

एवं ताः स तु सान्त्वयन् मधुरवाग् लीलाविलोलः स्वयं

प्रत्येकं किल गोपिकासु मिलितः संबद्धबाहुर्मिथः।

गाढालिंगनचुंबनादिभिरयं संपूजितो नर्तक:

कूजन्नूपुरकङ्कणाः स्वरतिरेवाƒनन्दयद् गोपिकाः।

Meaning: The gopikas were pacified and reassured by Bhagavan Krishna by His polite and sweet language and words.Then Krishna performed "RASA DANCE " with every gopika , as was Promised by Him during the Kathyayani Vratham to them.He was holding every gopika's hand. He was in the middle of every gopika. Two Gopikas were in between one Krishna and Two Krishnas were inbetween one gopika. The gopikas held Krishna in tight embrace and by passionate kisses on His lips, they were in a trance. In fact all of them offered their worship to Him .Bhagavan Krishna- who is Atmarama- Self Bliss-danced to the tune of their sounds of the braclets and anklets.

Commentary : This chapter is the crux of RASA LEELA. How the gopikas who had passionate love towards Krishna were satisfied by Krishna's presence by their sides. Yet Krishna was unaffected by any desire. He is Atmarama . He showed that He can not be conquered by Desires but He can conquer them. This is the spirit and sustance of this episode.The "summum bonum 'of Bhakthi is TOTAL SURRENDER TO HARI. This is the essence in this episode.Now to the extracts from the commentaries:

If we consider SRIMAD BHAGAVATHAM AS THE PHYSICAL BODY OF SRI KRISHNA-THEN THESE FIVE CHAPTERS - 29 TO 33 - ARE ITS PRANA STHANAM ( LIFE SUPPORT) OR FIVE PRANAS IN A HUMAN BODY.
SRIMAN NARAYANEEYAM ALSO- FROM DASHAKAS 65 TO 69 - ARE FIVE DASHAKAS -ARE THE PRANA STHANAM OF SRIMANNARAYANEEYAM. NARAYANEEYAM DESCRIBES "RASA LEELA " -IN A MORE CLEAR LANGUAGE WITH ITS VEDANTIC TRUTHS.SEE KRISHNA KARNAMRUTHAM OF LILA SHUKA -ASVADA 2 -VERSES 35 TO 42.
Parikshit raised a doubt as to how Bhagavan could touch other women , which was against Dharma. Shuka replied to him in detail that Krishna was Paramatma and ordinary Dharma would not be applicable to Him. See verses 27 t0 39 of chapter 33. The Phalashrythi for the narration and listening to "RASA LEELA " IS THAT THE DEVOTEE WILL GET SUPREME BHAKTHI AND HIS AILMENTS OF THE HEART WILL BE CURED.- meaning that his heart and mind would become pure.

गोपाः सादरमंबिकावनमुपेत्यानर्चुरंबां शिवं;

नन्दं मोचयति स्म सर्पमुखतः कृष्णः, स विद्याधरः।

हित्वा सर्पवपुः स्तुवन् हरिमगात् स्वर्गं; व्रजस्त्रीमुषं

हत्वा गुह्रकमाह्मतं हरिरदाद् रामाय चूडामणिम्।।

Meaning: The cowherds and Nanda went to the forest called Ambika Vanam and worshiped Bhagavan Shiva and Parvathi (Ambika) by doing puja with offering flowers to their feet.During the night when all of them were sleeping in the forest,a python caught hold of Nanda and did not leave him , even when they burnt the python with the fire sticks . Then all of them cried and asked Krishna to save Nanda. Krishna came and touched the python with His feet.The python disappeared and Nanda was freed from the python.A Vidhyadhara came out from the body of the python and prayed to Krishna. On Krishna's asking him as to he became a python. the Vidhyadhara replied that he was a Vidhyadhara in the previous birth by name Sudarshana, As he ridiculed the rishis from the Angirasa race for their forms ,he was cursed to become a python. The rishis told him that Krishna would touch him with His feet and he would regain his old form,after the Vidhyadhara repented for his folly. Thus the curse turned out to be a Grace on him. He worshiped Krishna and went away to the heaven. Then a follower of Kubera by name Shankhachuda took away the gopikas- who were with Balarama and Krishna during a night , when they became unconscious after hearing the songs from their flutes. When the gopikas cried for help , Krishna and Balrama went after him. Shankachuda ,ran leaving the women for his life, as he was afraid of Krishna.Krishna caught hold of him and killed him by hitting him with His fist along with the Chudamani on his head. He took the diamond from his head and gave it to his elder brother Balarama

Commentary; Extracts from the commentaries are given below:

कृष्णे याते वनं ता विरहतरलिताः संजगुर्गोपनार्यो-

""लीलागोपालवेषं खगमृगसरितो बालवल्यश्च दिव्याः''।

नेत्रश्रोत्राभिरामं सुमधुरमुरलीलोलमालोकयन्ति

स्फीतानन्दं दिवा; स व्रजशुभकृदयं दर्शनीयः सुपुण्यैः।''

Meaning: When Krishna had gone to the forest,the gopikas could not bear the separation of Him . - They were singing with sorrow in their hearts and minds - expressing their sorrow -" Krishna is He-who has donned the role of a gopala -to protect the cows and the Earth and who fills with His fingers the flute with songs very sweet to hear-who makes every one,the birds,animals,the Yamuna river,young and tender creepers,and also the devas very happy on seeing Him. Those who are very fortunate and accumulated virtues in their past lives by performing the righteous and virtuous acts according to Dharma Only will be able to see Him"
Commentary: The gopikas, after experiencing the " Rasa Krida" were so much obsessed with Krishna's remembrance , and were unable to forget Him even for a fraction of a second. When Krishna went to the forest for grazing the cows , the separation was inevitable. So in order to relieve their sorrow , all of them assembled and sang the song- which is well known as "YUGALA GEETHAM". There are 24 verses in this .SriVallabhacharya says that there are 12 months in a year. Twice of that is 24. That is why it is called 'Yugala Geetham".Each gopika sang two songs - is another interpretation.

Now extracts from commentaries:

This Geetham is full of vedantic sayings.The gopikas were able to see Krishna, singing sweet tunes in the flute in the forest( through the Anugraham of Krishna on them ) and hear the songs and see His form as well.Krishna grazed the cows for all the 12 months in 6 Ritus. Also the 12 types of sports He had performed and engaged in those 12 months are described in this "Yugala Geetham"

दैत्येƒरिष्टे ककुद्मत्यजितकरहते सादरं कंसमेत्य

प्रोक्तं श्रीनारदेन ""व्रजभुवि वसतो रामकृष्णौ रिपू ते।

विध्येतौ शौरिपुत्रौ, कलय हितमिति प्रोच्य याते मुनौ स

प्राहाक्रूरं - ""रिपू मे पुरमिह वसुदेवात्मजावानये''ति।।

Meaning: Krishna-the Ajitha ( Unconquerable by any body) killed Arishtasura, who came in the form of a bull.Narada Maharishi,came from Satyaloka without any further delay and met Kamsa. Narada came to Mathura to ensure that the purpose of Krishnavathara for killing of Kamsa was expedited. Narada told Kamsa that -" Your enemies Krishna and Balarama live in Gokulam in Vrindavanam.Know that they are the sons of Vasudeva. Now you make up your mind as to what is good and in your interest and do that". Having said this to Kamsa , Narada left for his abode. Kamsa called Akrura- whom he thought was a proper person- and told him-" Bring the two sons of Vasudeva to Mathura as early as possible, as they are my enemies "

Commentary: Arishtasura came in the form of a bull and tormented the entire Gokulam. Krishna cofronted him and killed the demon by catching him by his horns and making him fall on the ground and squeezing his body with His feet. Arishtasura got mukthi as he was killed by Krishna. Narada , as he was persuaded by devas, came and told Kamsa that Krishna and Balarama were Vasudeva's sons(who are your enemies) and they were entrusted to Nanda in Gokulam by Vasudeva. Kamsa wanted to kill Vasudeva but was prevented by Narada. Then Kamsa put both Devaki and Vasudeva in jail with handcuffs.Then he called Akrura and told him to bring Krishna and Balarama to Mathura by the chariot as early as possible. Then Kamsa revealed to Akrura his plans to kill both of them either bu the Kuvalayapida,elephant. In case they escape, they would be killed by Chanura and Mushtika in the wrestling match.

दैत्यं केशिनमश्वरूपमवधीत् कृष्णोƒथ देवर्षिणा

प्रोक्तस्त्वं जगतां पतिः कुरु विभो! भूमिं समाश्वासितां।

द्रक्ष्याम्यर्जुनसारथिं यदुपते! तुभ्यं नमोƒस्त्वि'त्ययं

यातः कश्चिदथासुरो मयसुतो व्योमो हतः शौरिणा।।

Meaning: Kamsa then persuaded Keshi- another Asura who was his friend- to go to Vrindavanam and kill Krishna. Keshi went there in the form of a horse and created troubles in the Gokulam. Krishna killed him by inserting His hand in his mouth and not allowing him to breathe.After Keshi was killed ,Narada came and met Krishna and prayed to Him-unknown to others -" O All Pervading One (VIBHO ) ! You are the Master of this Universe.Kindly console the Earth-by killing the wicked- and I want to see You as Parthasarathi. O Yadupathe ! My prostrations to You " Narada then went away. Then Krishna, when He went along with the cows for grazing in the mountain - playing the game of' thieves and police' . Then Vyomasura, who was the son of Maya-an asura- came and joined the group as a player in disguise. He stole the boys at regular intervals -who were acting as 'goats' in the game and hid them in a cave. When four or five of the boys remaining, Krishna noticed the asura taking the boys. Krishna killed the Vyomasura by catching hold of him with His hands and pushing the demon to the ground , similar to the killing of an animal.

Commentary: Keshi came running by opening his mouth in order to bite Krishna to death. Krishna put His hand in his open mouth and made the asura to stop his breathing. He fell dead. Narayana Bhatta says that because Krishna killed Keshi- He became to be known as "KESHAVA" ( See verse 6 of Dashakam 71 in Narayaneeyam ) . See some extracts from the commentaries.

अक्रूरः कंसवाक्यादुषसि रथवरेणैव गच्छन् स्वकीयं

भाग्यं सञ्चिन्त्य कृष्णस्मृतितरलहृदा नन्दगेहे प्रदोषे।

दृष्ट्वा रामं च कृष्णं प्रमुदितहृदयस्तत्पदान्ते प्रणम्य

द्वाभ्यामालिंगितः सन् व्रजविभवरसैः सादरं मानितोƒभूत्।।:

Meaning: As ordered by Kamsa, Akrura left Mathura in the early morning in a chariot and while he was travelling , his mind was fixed on Krishna and thought that it was his great fortune to meet Krishna and Balarama , a great opportunity as well. He reached Nanda's home in the Gokulam in the evening.There he saw Krishna and Balarama standing before him. He was so overwhelmed by seeing them. He fell at their feet. Krishna and Balarama embraced Akrura. Akrura was fed with very good food and was held in high esteem by Nanda and Krishna and Balarama.

Commentary: Akrura considered to go to Gokulam and meet Krishna and Balarama as the Grace and Mercy of Bhagavan Krishna.For he can see Him in person. He thought that Krishna would recognize him as His devotee ,although Akrura was Kamsa's messenger.He thought Krishna would welcome him and treat him as His devotee when he fell at His feet. When he reached Gokulam in the evening ,Akrura saw the foot prints left on the sand with the signs of lotus, ankusha and other symbols, and could not control his emotions and fell on them and rolled his body all over the place.This was the state of Akrura-who was Kamsa's messenger. This is the advantage for the Jivatmas-the souls.The jivas therefore should abandon their pride, fear and sorrows and engage themselves in the devotion to Vishnu- by hearing His stories, by contemplating His figure with all symbols and signs, and meditating on Him should become His devotees. Suka says that this is the message.

Akrura was welcomed by Nanda.Akrura saw Krishna and Balarama and was embraced by thm
See verses 3 ,4,5 of Dashaka 72 of SrimanNarayaneeyam

"त्यक्त्वा नो याति कृष्णः प्रति मधुपुर'मित्याकुला गोपनार्यो

गायन्त्यः कृष्णनाम प्रियविरहशुचा सास्रमुच्चैर्विलेपुः;।

अक्रूरो बालकाध्यासितरथमनयत्; सूरजायां स
मज्जन् पश्यन्ननन्तं तदुपरि कमलानाथमप्येवमस्तौत्।।

Meaning: The gopikas heard -that "Krishna will be going to Mathura leaving all of us" and were so much worried about His absence among them in future. They were singing about His names and could not control shedding their tears and they could not bear His separation from them. They wept bitterly in a loud voice and could not control themselves.Akrura took Krishna and Balarama in the chariot and left for Mathura. They reached the banks of Yamuna in the evening. Akrura bathed in the waters of Yamuna for his observing his daily routine-evening Sandhyopasana-He saw both Balarama and Krishna in the water as Adisesha and Vishnu on the bed of Anantha. He was surprised. He looked at both of them sitting in the chariot. Again when he bathed in water he saw the same scene in water and when he looked up he saw Krishna and Balarama sitting on the chariot. This was an experience that happened repeatedly to Akrura. Finally when he came up and offered his prayers to Vishnu.

Commentary: The song that the gopikas sang on hearing about the impending separation from Krishna are described in verses 19 to 31 of chapter 39. This is called " KARUNA GEETHAM "

भूमन्! नौमि भवन्तमादिपुरुषं त्वन्नाभिपद्मोत्थितो

ब्रह्मा लोकपितामहोƒपि भवतो रूपं न जानात्यहो!।

नानारूपधरोƒर्पितं सकलमप्यादाय कारुण्यतो

भक्तानां च हितं ददासि खलु मां पाहि प्रपन्नं प्रभो!॥

Meaning: Akrura' prayer - " O BHUMAN ! O ADIPURUSHA! I prostrate before You.Brahma- who has sprung from Your navel which is in the form of a Lotus-who is called as the great grandfather of this Universe-does not know Your real nature nor Your Form.O It is wonder of wonders! You incarnate Yourself in different forms and whatever is given to You by the devotees with devotion towards You- are accepted by you showernig Your mercy on them. You protect them always and see that only what is good for them happens. O PRABHO! I have surrendered myself totally to You. Kindly protect me"

Commentary: This is called -"AKRURA STUTHI" - one of the important prayers (stuthi) in the Purana.

After taking bath in the river ,Akrura offered his prayers.This prayer is both "SAGUNA AND NIRGUNA" Forms of BRAHMAN. ON coming out from the river Krishna asked Akrura as if he saw something wonderful in the water, as he looked very surprised. Akrura replied that Krishna was the wonder of wonders and what he saw also was the wonder of wonders.

कृष्णोƒक्रूरेण नीतो मधुपुरमखिलैः पूजितः संस्तुतः सन्

पृष्टं चादत्तवस्त्रं रजकमुरुमदं रूक्षवाचं निहत्य।

वस्त्राण्यादाय भक्ते प्रकटितकरुणो वायके वासगेहं

गत्वा तुष्टः सुदाम्नो बलधनसुखकीर्त्यादि सर्वं ददौ च।।

Meaning: Krishna, who was brought to Mathura by Akrura was worshipped and respected by all the subjects.Krishna asked a washer man who was the servant of Kamsa to give Him and other some clothes. The washer man was very proud and gave a very haughty and arrogant reply that only kings wear superior clothes and the village folks and the poor do not desrve such clothes. Hearing this arrogant reply, Krishna killed him striking him with His forehand and his head was cut off.. He then took some of the clothes for Himself and the balance of the clothes left over to all His friends.Then He met a tailor gave many good clothes and of different varieties and colour.Krishna gave the tailor (merchant) "SARUPYA" -A form of liberation. Later Krishna visited a flower merchant and a garland maker by name Sudama. The garland maker gave Him a garland with very good flowers and worshiped Him. Krishna blessed Sudama with the wealth, valor , and happiness But Sudama requested Him to grant the fortune of having Bhakthi towards Him and His devotees.

Commentary: What all happened after Krishna reached Mathura is described in this chapter. Akrura requested Krishna to visit his house. Krishna replied to Akrura that He would visit him after His work in that city was over. Now Extracts of some commentaries:

गच्छन्नंगविलेपदानमुदितः कुब्जां जगन्मोहिनीम्

कृत्वा "काममवाप्स्यसीति विसृजन्नेतां वणिग्भिः पथि।

नानोपायनतोƒर्चितः स धनुषः स्थानं समेत्याच्युत-

स्तत् सज्यं प्रबभञ्ज कंसहृदये भीतिं च संवर्द्धयन्।।

Meaning: Achyutha -Krishna walked through the main road- Raja marga- King's road- saw an young woman with a hunchback but with a very attractive face. She was carrying with her a tray of fragrant ointments as she walked along.Krishna asked her to provide Him with some fragrant ointments. She told Krishna that people call her as Trivakra (because of the deformities in her body). She gave the best of fragrant ointments to Krishna. Krishna desired to make her the most beautiful woman in return. By lifting her chin with his both index fingers and pressing her toes with both His feet ,He removed her of the hunchback and she was transformed into a beautiful woman.She began to have lusty desires towards Krishna. Krishna promised that her desires would be fulfilled later. On the way, all the merchants worshiped Him with all their goods. Krishna then reached the place where a big bow was kept. The security force kept for guarding the bow tried to prevent Krishna from reaching the bow and lift it. But it was in vain. Krishna lifted the bow and then tried to pull the string, the bow broke into two pieces. Kamsa heard the loud sound of the breaking of the bow and was struck with fear.

Commentary: The "Sairandhri" was engaged in applying cosmetics to the queens. She was blessed by Krishna. But she had lusty desires. Krishna promised her that He will fulfill her desires later. Kamsa observed the bad omens after the bow was broken by Krishna.Krishna and others spent the night . Kamsa made arrangements for the stage where the wrestling match was to take place.All the wrestlers such as Chanura, Mushtika,Kuta,Shala, and Toshala assembled there. Nanda and other cowherds gave their offerings to Kamsa (who invited them also to watch the wrestling match ) and sat in the stage along with others.Kamsa also came with his retinue and sat on the throne.

मञ्चारूढेषु नन्दादिषु च समुपकर्ण्याƒरवं मल्लरंगाद्

रंगद्वारं गतः सन् निहतकुवलयापीडनागो नृसिंहः।

कृष्णस्तद्दन्तपाणिः सदसि बहुजनैर्भिन्नभावेन दृष्ट-

श्चाणूरोक्तः सरामः समरभुवि विभुर्मल्लवेद्यां व्यलासीत्।।

Meaning: When Nandagopa and others were seated in the stage , Krisna and Balarama heard the tumultuous sound of the kettle drums from the stage. When they were coming to the stage, there was an elephant by name Kuvalayapida with the mahout standing by its side blocked their way to the entrance. Krishna then requested the mahout to take away the elephant to allow them to enter. But the mahout was arrogant and angry and goaded the elephant to attack Krishna and Balarama. When the elephant attacked Krishna,He went under her feet . When the elephant was unable to locate Him, Krishna seized its trunk and pushed it to the ground , climbed on it and killed it by pulling its tusks out. He killed its keepers also. Then Kraishna and Balarama entered the stage with the one tusk on each shoulder , with blood drops and swat sprinkled all over Him.All those who saw Him had different views and regarded Him in different ways. Chanura then spoke to Krishna to wrestle with him and Balarama with Mushtika. Krishna along with Balarama showed their prowess in the wrestling match.

Commentary: How each of them saw Krishna and Balarama when He entered the stage is explained in verse 17 of the chapter 43. The extraxt from Sararths Darshani is reproduced.

चाणूरे निहते रणे अत्र हरिणा ,रामो अप्यहन् मुष्टिकं

कूटाद्येषु हतेषु कंसनृपतिं,जल्पन्तमुच्चै रुषा।

मञ्चादाशु निपात्य तं भुवि हरिः संहृत्य संसारत-

श्चक्रे मुक्तमसान्त्वयञ्च विधवाः; पित्रोरगाच्चान्तिकम्।।
Meaning: In the wrestling match Krishna killed Chanura.Balarama killed Mushtika. Then Balarama killed Kuta .Krishna killed Shala with His feet and Toshalaka also. Then Kamsa stopped all the activties as all the wrestlers had run away to save their lives.He directed to drive both Krishna and Balarama out of the city and to confisicate all the properties of Nanda and also to arrest him. As he was blabbering in this manner ,Krishna got on to the stage where Kamsa was seated. Kamsa took a sword as he saw His own Death before him. Krishna caught hold of his hair and made him fall on the ground from the height where he was seated and killed him. Then Krishna pulled him on the ground. All the brothers of Kamsa who came there to fight -eight in number- were killed by Balarama. Then in the heaven all the musical instruments resounded in a fitting manner and Brahma, Shiva and other demi-gods showered flowers on Krishna and Balarama.Kamsa got liberation as he was always thinking of Hari with fear. Then all the wives of Kamsa and others who were killed had come and grieved over their death of husbands. The widows were pacified by Krishna-by telling that death was unavoidable and they met their ends by their unrighteous acts. Then the funeral rites of the dead were performed. Krishna then released their parents Vasudeva and Devaki from the jail and prostrated before them and Vasudeva and Devaki embraced their sons- with the least doubt in their minds.
Commentary:Kamsa got "SARUPYA MUKTHI" ( see verse 39 of chapter 44). Not only that- Chanura , Mushtika and others who were killed by Krishna and Balarama also got "mukthi".Krishna and Balarama killed the wrestlers -even when the spectators felt that the match was between un equals and the children could not fight with the strong men. They that the combat was against Dharma..

बद्धांस्तत्र निरागसोƒपि स जनान् कारागृहान्मोचयन्

कृत्वा भूपतिमुग्रसेनमजितो नन्दं निवर्त्य व्रजम्।

विद्यां ज्ञाननिधिस्त्ववाप्य च गुरोः सान्दीपने
दत्वाƒस्मै सुतमाहृतं यमपुरात् प्राप्तः स्वकीयं गृहम्।।

Meaning :Kamsa had arrested a number of innocent people and jailed them. Krishna released all of them. Krishna also released Ugrasena , whom Kamsa had arrested and jailed earlier. He made Ugrasena as the King of Mathura and all the Yadu race.Krishna and Balarama, then pacified Nanda and Yashoda - expressing their love to them and for having looked after Them with extreme filial love and affection and sent them to Gokulam.They promised to visit them . Then Vasudeva gave the charity of 1 lakh (100 thousands) cows-which he had mentally given at the time of Krishna's birth.Then they were given the "Dvijathi samskaram". Garga initiated Krishna and Balarama with Gayathri Mantra. Then they went to Sandipani Guru- who was at Avanthi-and under his guidance ,they were taught all the Vidyas- Vedas with its six branches, Upanishads, Dhanur veda and Dharma shastras and all the other branches of Knowledge. They learned 64 kalas or branches of Knowledge in 64 days - studying them both in day and night -attained perfection in all of them. Then after completion of their education they wanted to give Guru Dakshina to Sandipani Guru. Sandipani in consultation with his wife requested Krishna and Balarama to get back their dead son in Prabhasa long back with life. Both Krishna and Balarama went to Prabhasa and asked the Ocean to return the Guru's dead son. The Ocean then directed them to the asura in the form of Shankha. They killed that asura but did not find the dead son of their Guru Krishna came with A Shankha in His hand.. Then they went to the Yama-God of Death and asked him to return the dead son. Yama then returned the dead son of Sandipani. Then they went back and gave thir dead son to Sandipani and his wife. Sandipani was very at this and gave permission to go gack to Mathura. They returned to Mathura very fast in a chariot. All the people were happy as they returned after many days.

Commentary:

धीमान् भक्तवरो हरेर् वचनतो गत्वा व्रजं चोद्धवो

नन्दं सादरमर्चितः सुतवियोगार्तौ यशोदामपि।

प्राहाƒƒस्ते नगरे हरिः सुखमिहाप्यस्माकमन्तर्बहि-

र्नायं वां सुत ईश्वरो न च वियोगोƒनेन वां स्या'' दिति।।

Meaning: Udhdhava, who was a minister of Vrishnis ,Krishna's dear friend, disciple of Brihaspathi and the most intelligent and diligent person,went to the Gokulam- in order to carry out the order of Krishna.Nanda received him with due respect asked Udhdhava about the welfare of Krishna and Balarama and others.He asked if Krishna remembered about Gokulam and all of them. Nanda and Yashoda had been thinking of Krishna and Balarama always and were so much immersed in Their thoughts that they-Yashoda in particular-did not care about any other thing. Yashoda could not control her tears and wept always remembering Krishna. Udhdhava observed that both Nanda and Yashoda had the -Vatslya Bhakthi towards Krishna- and could not bear His separation from them. Udhdhava pacified them and taught the Atma Vidhya to them. He told-"Krishna is living in Mathura with all comforts.He is always with us -both inside us and outside also. He is not only your son but Paramatma as well.You will never be separated from Him"

Commentary: Krishna sent Udhdhava to Gokulam as His messenger to pacify Nanda and Yashoda and other gopikas- who were always thinking of Him and grieving over the separation from Him.Udhdhava was surprised with the Devotion of Nanda and Yashoda. So he pacified them by telling that Krishna is Paramatma and lives in them. They would be able to see Him in perso also soon.The entire night was spent by them-only in describing about Krishna. Then, in the dawn, Udhdhava heard Gpi's singing about Krishna, when they were churning curds.They saw the chariot of Udhdhava and had a doubt if Akrura had come to take Krishna.They could not forget Krishna ever since He left for Mathura. Their entire thoughts were only -"KRISHNA" AND NOTHING ELSE.

गोपीः कृष्णैकचित्ता विरहतरलिताः

संश्राव्याƒƒश्वास्य चायं हरिमहिमकथा वर्णयन्

तृप्तः प्रस्थापितश्च व्रजजननिवहैरुद्धवः

गोपीपादाब्जरेणुं सविनयमभिवन्द्याƒƒगतो वृष्णिदेशम्।।

This is another important chapter in Purvardha. It describes the-"PREMA BHAKTHI" OF THE GOPIES.The gopis were always thinking of Krishna. They could not forget the _" Rasa Leela" and their experiences. Their lust increased many fold due to the separation. They expressed it to Udhdhava through "BHRAMARA GEETHAM" ( verses 12 to 21 in ten verses). This geetham or song is full of upanishadic truths apart from -"VIPRALAMBA SHRINGARA" One has to read the commentaries to know the import of these verses.

Meaning:The gopis were immersed in their thoughts -only with Krishna and nothing else. They could not bear His separation from them and were grieving over it.. Udhdhava conveyed Krishna's message to them and pacified them.He also narrated the stories about Krishna to them and they were extremely happy on listening to them. All the residents bid Udhdhava a good farewell , when he left Gokulam for Mathura after spending some months in their company. When he left, he was so overwhelmed on seeing and observing the undiluted and pure and innocent "PREMA BHAKTHI" OF THE GOPIS. He prostrated to the dust of Their Feet (Paraaga) and sang praising it. ( verses 58 to 63 in six verses)

Commentary:The gopis were expecting Krishna to come and see them. But when Udhdhava came to Gokulam, they could not control their sorrow and this was reflected in their describing His ingratitude towards them in the Bhramara Geetham. Udhdhava pacified them that Krishna had never forgot them and there was no question of separation from them -because He was inside them and as well as outside. The gopikas would have more love of Him when in separation from Him , than by remaining with Him. After hearing the message of Krihna through Udhdhava all gopis were extremly satisfied and happy. This was the mission of Udhdhava for which he was sent by Krishna to make him aware of the PURE BHAKTHI of gopis towards Him. When Udhdhava left for Mathura, he reciprocated his devotion to the Gopis by prostrating to the dust of their feet which could purify all the three worlds. In other terms, Bhakthi of the Gopis is "nonpareil"
Some Vaishnavacharyas opine that - a daily chanting of "Brhamara Geetham" and meditating on the meaning of it will lead to purifying our minds- "CHITTA SHUDHDHI"
Sri Vishvanatha Chakravarthi in his commentary "SararthaDarshani" has described the "Brahamara Geetham" to include ten types of expressing the grief of separation from their beloved ones by the nayika-heroine - called Chitra Jalpa- in a detailed manner. The ten types are: Chitra Jalpa and others. See the verse below.

Some extracts from the commentaries:

सैरन्ध्रीं स्मरतापितां हरिरगात् कामोपभोगैरिमां

निस्संगः समतर्पयच्च; भगवानक्रूरगेहं गतः।

सन्तुष्टं तमुवाच - ""हस्तिनपुरं गत्वा च पार्थान् पृथां

दृष्ट्वा नः कथयाशु तत्स्थितिममी रक्ष्या मया सर्वथा।।

Meaning: As Sairandhri was entertaining lusty desires with regard to Krishna,He went to her residence and saw to it that her desires were fulfilled.While Krishna was not entertaining any desires at all and was totally detached from the desires of any kind,He fulfilled the lusty desires of the Sairandhri only to satisfy her. In fact Shuka condemns this attitude on her part- He opines that when she had an opportunity to ask for "mukthi " from Krishna, she chose to satisfy her sensory organs by His association with her.

Then Krishna went to the residence of Akrura , who worshiped Him with offering Puja and prayed to Him that Akrura should develop total detachment to material possessions and remove the Illusion-Maya. Krishna was well satisfied with Akrura's devotion and told him-"You go to Hastinapuram and see Kunthi,Pandavas . Find out as to what was happening there then.Then come here and inform me.I have to protect them always in every possible manner"

Commentary: Krishna visited them because He had promised to do so earlier. While the Sairandrhri's approach was of lust , Akrura's was that of Devotion..Krishna had only fulfilled the desires of His devotees. This was the purpose of His incarnation.

गत्वा हस्तिपुरं च भीष्मविदुरौ दृष्ट्वा पृथां दुखितां

पार्थान् कृष्णकटाक्षशीर्णकदनानन्धं च भूपालकं।

ज्ञात्वा तद् गरदानकर्म विमना राज्ञे हितं प्रोच्य स

प्रत्यागत्य सुधी न्यवेदयदरं कृष्णाय सर्वाण्यपि।।

Meaning: Akrura, who was intelligent, went to Hastinapuram. He met Bhishma and Vidura ,Krupacharya,Bahlika and others there.He met Karna,Duryodhana,Ashwaththama,Pandavas and others.He inquired about the welfare of his friends and others. He met Kunthi, who shed tears on seeing him, and told him of all her sufferings.She expressed her gratitude to Krishna who was always a source of consolation to her.Akrura understood that Dhritharashtra was partial and was not treating Pandavas and Kauravas equally

Akrura came to know the poisoning of Bheema and an attempt to burn the lacquer house in the night and other troubles to Pandavas from Vidura and Kunthi.

Akrura then went to Dhritharashtra and advised him to treat Pandavas and his sons in an equal manner.

Dhritharashtra said that while he understood the good advice of Akrura ,he was influenced by the Maya and specially in case of his son. He prayed to Krishna.Akrura then returned to Mathura and appraised Krishna and Balarama about what all was going on at Hastinapuram.

Commentary: Dhritharashtra was not treating Pandavas and Kauravas equally. This was against Dharma. Even when he was advised by Akrura, he was helpless and overcome ohf his filial love towards Duryodhana. He was overcome by Maya. All he could do was to offer his prayer to Krishna.

HRASVA BAGHAVATHAM

Thursday, April 10, 2014

HRASVABHAGAVATHAM- CANTO -10 -PURVARDHA - PART -2

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