(Pushtimarga): The path Of Grace
Freedom: In Bhaktimarga, Vaishnava can serve ShreeNathJee in any form that pleases the bhakta. Such as, baby, friend, master, lover, servant, God or any other form. Examples are, Mira's Madhav, Yahoda's Lalo, Arjun's friend, Narshinh Mehta's Shamariyo sheth and Shabri's Ram.
God is the ultimate: Any form one worships, Krishna has to be ultimate shelter and superpower for the Bhakta. In sloka seven of "Navratnam", Jagadguru Shree Vallabhacharya has clearly advised that Vaishnava should worship ShreeJee under the roof of Gurus's blessings, but if the God's wish (God telling Bhakta in dream or by giving darshan or according to bhakta's knowledge) is not same as Guru's order, Vaishnava must follow the God's signal and thus Vaishnava would not break any rules of Guruhakti. Int this way, Bhaktimarga is different than many other religions where God is seen as much closer to the Gurus than to the bhaktas.
The beauty of Pushtimarga: In Bhaktimarga, Vaishnava does not need to turn away from the responsibilities of family or society. There is no need to leave house and search for the God when He resides in one's home. There are millions of vaishnavas in India and all over the world, who are performing "seva" in there house everyday and also are responsible to the family and/or society. Even in the busy life of America, many vaishnavas do seva in the morning and then go to work or school. Because this is done privately at most places, it is hard to find million dollar temples in every cities.
What Vaishnavas are doing: To serve Krishna and enjoy the life as a gift from the God. Generally, Vaishnavas life looks a materialistic life style because it has no showoffs as a worshipper. A vaishnava performs seva every morning (Many vaishnavas do this all day, but let's take general case). In the seva, he/she prays ShreeJeeBawa, Yamunamaiya and Vallabh prabhu as directed by his/her Guru. No show offs here, pretty much personal or family based activity. After seva, he/she gets busy in daily activities. During such activities, vaishnava does not forget the lord. To see everything as Murlidhar's wish, not to see negative of vaishnavas, to sing Bhajan/kirtan (Can also sing pop song with remembering the Lord) periodically and help others are the characteristics of vaishnavas. Many Vaishnavas do "satsang" or go to the temple (if available, otherwise temple is already in our heart and home anyway) every evening. Means some bhajan/kirtan and some talks about the Lord.
How to do it:
1. Decide which form of Krishna you would like. You can change later if you want. Pick the form which is dearest to you. Krishna's every form is dearest, but picking the one that is dearest to you can make bhakti easier.
2. Receive "Brahmasambandha" (initiation) from the Gurus of Vallabhkul so that one can get better feedback to serve the God. Get your God's idol or picture "Pushti" by Guru. This means Guru requests the God to stay in that idol or picture and communicate with Bhaktos. Getting Pusti is a very responsible job. After this it is very important that Bhakta really serves ShreeJee nicely and regularly. For instance, if Krisna's baby form is picked, vaishnava must take care of that idol or picture as own baby and thus serve baby nicely and regularly. Thus for fast paced life styler or beginner Bhaktas, Pushti is not preferred.
3. Worship that form same way as you would treat that person in real life. For example, if you picked Krishna as "lover", make sure you keep giving Him love because we give love to our beloved. Love should be given without expectation. For master form, one should acept everything as ShreeNathJee's desire and never argue for having unhappiness. Of course, we want to worship all the forms, but setting up the form picked in step 1 in our house can make "Seva" easier. Ultimately, God is only one, so if your family has different form, it should not matter to anyone's understanding. Serving Krishna as described by Vallabhkul Balakos (Mahaprabhu Shree Vallabhavharyaji's descendants) is preferred because it makes things easy. But as shree Vallabh has showed, just keep common sense in it. For instance, If you are feeling cold, most likely you Lalo is also feeling the same so have Him a good minisweater or so. Don't get trapped into seva as a routine work, but enjoy it.
Easy: Bhaktimarga, also called Pushtimarga by vaishnavas is easy way to attain Krishna. Not only Vaishnavas but many great spiritual leaders have sugggested thdevotees to worship their respected Lord as shown by Mahaprabhuji and Gusaiji.
Ashtakshar Mahamantra
• Ashtakshara Mahamantra: When Shri Vallabhacharya was on visit to northwest India, the Lord requested him to come to Mount govardhan to meet Him. Asking people around Mt. govardhan, Vallabh found that there is one cow going to the mountain everyday and releasing the milk at certain place. Vallabh asked people to dig that area. At this time the Lord revealed Himself to Shri Vallabh in form of Shree Nathji. At this time, the Lord hugs Shri Vallabhacharya and gave him sacred mantra "Shree Krishna: Sharnam Mama" to initiate people.
• Pushtimarg, the path of divine grace is based on the "Vishudhadvaita" philosophy, initially shown by shri Vallabhacharya. Shri Vallabh strongly suggested that Lord Shree Krishna is the ultimate, Krishna is everything and everything is Krishna. Thus Shri Krishna's blessings alone and only can free humans from the painful cycle of birth and death.
• Shree Vallabhacharya wrote many books, but many of them are not available today due to lack of proper preservance. Many importan books / articles / padas written by Vallabhacharya and the Acharyas of Vallabhkul are still available and famous in vaishnava society. Yamunashatakam, Navaratnam and many other padas, and Subodhiniji book are very important for Vaishnavas to read and understand.
• Shree Vallabhacharya was of modern thinking and that is why He started Mogul style attire for ShreeNathJee. Unfortunately, this is not happening in modern teachings of Pushtimarga by some leaders. But it is also true that following Vallabhacharya's method is easy path towards the religious journey and since this is proven method why not adopt it as a gift rather than introducing new method which may be not suitable to the luxury of Purushottam.
• Pushtimarg, the path of divine grace is based on the "Vishudhadvaita" philosophy, initially shown by shri Vallabhacharya. Shri Vallabh strongly suggested that Lord Shree Krishna is the ultimate, Krishna is everything and everything is Krishna. Thus Shri Krishna's blessings alone and only can free humans from the painful cycle of birth and death.
• Shree Vallabhacharya wrote many books, but many of them are not available today due to lack of proper preservance. Many importan books / articles / padas written by Vallabhacharya and the Acharyas of Vallabhkul are still available and famous in vaishnava society. Yamunashatakam, Navaratnam and many other padas, and Subodhiniji book are very important for Vaishnavas to read and understand.
• Shree Vallabhacharya was of modern thinking and that is why He started Mogul style attire for ShreeNathJee. Unfortunately, this is not happening in modern teachings of Pushtimarga by some leaders. But it is also true that following Vallabhacharya's method is easy path towards the religious journey and since this is proven method why not adopt it as a gift rather than introducing new method which may be not suitable to the luxury of Purushottam.
Shri Yamunaji
Shri Yamunaji :
Shri Yamuna is the fourth element of Shrinathji. Shri Yamuna is the daughter of Surya (Sun) and sister of Yam. She is symbol of Mukti from the evils of Yam and light. Yamunaji is the “ISHT DEVI” of Pushtimarg.
Her another name is Kalindi also. She is also the daughter of Surya. She is the fourth patrani of Krishna but Yamunaji the daughter of Surya is beloved of Shri Krishna and not the wedded wife. She is the fourth Swamini.
Radha is the First beloved of Shri Krishna (Radha is the reverse of Dhara). Dhara takes away the being from Lord Shiva due to its TRIGUNATMA character. On the contrary Radha with the strength of Bhakti and Samarpan makes atma meet parmatma. Sacred beloved of Krishna is Gopanga. Third beloved of Krishna is Gopanga.
Third beloved of Krishna is “ Ananya Purva ” a daughter of Rishi who did Katyani Vrat.
Yamunaji had emerged from the heart of Surya Narayan and landed at Mount Kalindi. She had flown on the earth for the benefit of its disciples to have Bhakti Bhav.
Yamunaji is the melted form of Bhakti Rass liquified image. She has three images
• Yamunaji the river in its Bhakti Swarup in the form of flow of water.
• Religiously it is ultimate of Mahatma.
• Mythologically she carries garland of lotus in her hands for Lord Krishna. Religious form of Yamunaji is visible to all. Mythological image can only be known through experience. Shri Vallabhacharya has described this Yamunastak.
Where there is Krishna there is Yamunaji. She is like Krishna. Krishna is black as is Yamunaji. Krishna is king of kings. So Yamunaji is Queen of Queens. This is the belief of Pushti marg. Krishna was born in Mathura on the bank of Yamuna. He performed his Bal-Leela in Gokul on the bank of Yamuna. He performed his Rasleela in Brindavan and killed kaliya. He used to play with Gopis in water. Yamunaji is very much loved by Krishna, hence she is beloved of Krishna. Krishna is Lord of Yamuna and Yamunaji is lordless of Krishna. That is why both are loved by Vaishnavs. Krishna is manmohan of Yamuna. Yamunaji has come to earth to be holy and sacred. She is sister of “Niyamak” who keeps account of human beings good and bad deeds. He who takes water of Yamuna becomes the son of Yamuna. How can the mother torture his child and hence he who takes bath in Yamuna should not be afraid of Yam.
Bhakti Bhavs image is the meaning of Yamuna. One who drinks Yamuna's water becomes firm devotee of Bhakti Bhav. He gets associated with God and thus what harm can Yam do?
Yamuna is the giver of “Ashta Siddhi”.
Yamuna makes a human being enable ............
• To get Body to worship God.
• To watch God’s action.
• To feel God’s action.
• To get Sarvatam Bhav Siddhi.
• To remain and have God’s blessing even during bad days.
• To get Divine Sight.
• To feel the pleasure of God’s blessings.
• To feel God’s presence even in bad time.
Shri Yamuna is the fourth element of Shrinathji. Shri Yamuna is the daughter of Surya (Sun) and sister of Yam. She is symbol of Mukti from the evils of Yam and light. Yamunaji is the “ISHT DEVI” of Pushtimarg.
Her another name is Kalindi also. She is also the daughter of Surya. She is the fourth patrani of Krishna but Yamunaji the daughter of Surya is beloved of Shri Krishna and not the wedded wife. She is the fourth Swamini.
Radha is the First beloved of Shri Krishna (Radha is the reverse of Dhara). Dhara takes away the being from Lord Shiva due to its TRIGUNATMA character. On the contrary Radha with the strength of Bhakti and Samarpan makes atma meet parmatma. Sacred beloved of Krishna is Gopanga. Third beloved of Krishna is Gopanga.
Third beloved of Krishna is “ Ananya Purva ” a daughter of Rishi who did Katyani Vrat.
Yamunaji had emerged from the heart of Surya Narayan and landed at Mount Kalindi. She had flown on the earth for the benefit of its disciples to have Bhakti Bhav.
Yamunaji is the melted form of Bhakti Rass liquified image. She has three images
• Yamunaji the river in its Bhakti Swarup in the form of flow of water.
• Religiously it is ultimate of Mahatma.
• Mythologically she carries garland of lotus in her hands for Lord Krishna. Religious form of Yamunaji is visible to all. Mythological image can only be known through experience. Shri Vallabhacharya has described this Yamunastak.
Where there is Krishna there is Yamunaji. She is like Krishna. Krishna is black as is Yamunaji. Krishna is king of kings. So Yamunaji is Queen of Queens. This is the belief of Pushti marg. Krishna was born in Mathura on the bank of Yamuna. He performed his Bal-Leela in Gokul on the bank of Yamuna. He performed his Rasleela in Brindavan and killed kaliya. He used to play with Gopis in water. Yamunaji is very much loved by Krishna, hence she is beloved of Krishna. Krishna is Lord of Yamuna and Yamunaji is lordless of Krishna. That is why both are loved by Vaishnavs. Krishna is manmohan of Yamuna. Yamunaji has come to earth to be holy and sacred. She is sister of “Niyamak” who keeps account of human beings good and bad deeds. He who takes water of Yamuna becomes the son of Yamuna. How can the mother torture his child and hence he who takes bath in Yamuna should not be afraid of Yam.
Bhakti Bhavs image is the meaning of Yamuna. One who drinks Yamuna's water becomes firm devotee of Bhakti Bhav. He gets associated with God and thus what harm can Yam do?
Yamuna is the giver of “Ashta Siddhi”.
Yamuna makes a human being enable ............
• To get Body to worship God.
• To watch God’s action.
• To feel God’s action.
• To get Sarvatam Bhav Siddhi.
• To remain and have God’s blessing even during bad days.
• To get Divine Sight.
• To feel the pleasure of God’s blessings.
• To feel God’s presence even in bad time.
Shrinathji
: Shrinathji :
The Lord is an important swarup in Pushti Marg, representing Krishna at the age of seven. He with his left arm holds Mount Goverdhan while his right hand rests on the his waist. There is a parrot on the top centre. Two sages are meditating near Shrinathji’s left hand and below them is a snake while another below it is a tiger. Beneath the tiger there are two peacocks. On the other side is one sage beneath him is the snake and two cows. They are evidently inhabitants of Mount Goverdhan watching Shrinathji reverently.
Shrinathji’s left hand was first seen in 1410 on the summit of Mount Goverdhan. It was offered milk because the inhabitants worshipped as a single deity. The face (Mukharvind) of the Lord emerged in 1479 when Vallabhacharya was born.
Hence the birth of the Mukharvind(Lotus like face) of Shrinathji.
In 1493 Vallabhacharya found Lord Shrinathji at midnight in Gokul. He was overcome with emotion and garlanded Lord Shrinathji with pavitra and offered misri.
Anyor is the village below the hill at Mount Goverdhan. A Brahmin known as Sadhu Pande was staying. He had a cow of Nandvash (Gumer) who was grazing on the hill with other cows. One fine morning Gumer poured milk and offered to Lord Shrinathji while he was feeling hungry. Gumer gave less milk and hence he doubted on Gumer that people were pilfering milk. Next day Pandeji secretly followed Gumer offering milk to Lord Shrinathji. He was surprised to see this incident and was glad to have his Darshan.
The next morning everybody climbed the hill and saw that the divine child running forward and embracing Vallabhacharya, lord then asked him to place him in a shrine so that regular seva could be performed, and said that divine grace would descend on those who worshipped him further adding “That is why I have revealed myself here.”
(1) MANGLA:
This is the first Jhanki of the day and in winter it takes place before the sunrise while in summer, it is later. In summer he wears a Dhoti while in winter he wears a Coat. Arati is offered and this darshan is dedicated to the memory of Parmanandji (Poet).
(2) SHRINGAR:
An hour after Mangla is the next darshan where Shrinathji is well dressed with a mala of flowers. He is then shown in the mirror and a flute is placed in his hand. He is supposed to play with the children during this time. Dry fruit is offered to Shrinathji and his dress varies according to season and festival. The songs are sung by the poet Nandadas.
(3) GVAL:
This is the third Jhanki when Shrinathji takes his cows to the field. During this darshan Dhoop Deep is performed. The singer in this Jhanki reminds about the singer, Shri Govind swami, Kheer and Rabdi is offered to Shrinathji.
(4) RAJBHOG:
The main darshan of the day is Rajbhog. Shrinathji is well dressed and served with most delicious and nutritious food. An Aarti is performed. The Kirtankar is poet Khumbhandas.
(5) UTHAPAN:
At about 3 p.m. Shrinathji awakes after his noon sleep. Vina is played and Kirtankar is supposed to, be Surdasji.
(6) BHOG:
During this darshan, Shrinathji is offered fruits and light meal. Shrinathji holds conferences with other Gods & Goddesses and one should ask to shrinathji and request him to fulfill the desires. It is in this Darshan one will find Chadidar who is the guard. The kirtankar in this Jhanki is Chaturbhujadas. Dhruv Bari is the place where one can request lord to fulfill his wishes.
(7) SANDHYA ARTI:
This seventh Jhanki is at dusk when the Lord used to bring his cows back to home. The kirtankar is supposed to be Chitarswami. Evening Arti is performed.
(8) SHAYAN:
This is the last Jhanki which emphasis for Shrinathji to retire for the night. An arti is performed. This darshan is usually held for six months. Thakurji is offered paan. The kirtankar is supposed to be krishnadas.
The Lord is an important swarup in Pushti Marg, representing Krishna at the age of seven. He with his left arm holds Mount Goverdhan while his right hand rests on the his waist. There is a parrot on the top centre. Two sages are meditating near Shrinathji’s left hand and below them is a snake while another below it is a tiger. Beneath the tiger there are two peacocks. On the other side is one sage beneath him is the snake and two cows. They are evidently inhabitants of Mount Goverdhan watching Shrinathji reverently.
Shrinathji’s left hand was first seen in 1410 on the summit of Mount Goverdhan. It was offered milk because the inhabitants worshipped as a single deity. The face (Mukharvind) of the Lord emerged in 1479 when Vallabhacharya was born.
Hence the birth of the Mukharvind(Lotus like face) of Shrinathji.
In 1493 Vallabhacharya found Lord Shrinathji at midnight in Gokul. He was overcome with emotion and garlanded Lord Shrinathji with pavitra and offered misri.
Anyor is the village below the hill at Mount Goverdhan. A Brahmin known as Sadhu Pande was staying. He had a cow of Nandvash (Gumer) who was grazing on the hill with other cows. One fine morning Gumer poured milk and offered to Lord Shrinathji while he was feeling hungry. Gumer gave less milk and hence he doubted on Gumer that people were pilfering milk. Next day Pandeji secretly followed Gumer offering milk to Lord Shrinathji. He was surprised to see this incident and was glad to have his Darshan.
The next morning everybody climbed the hill and saw that the divine child running forward and embracing Vallabhacharya, lord then asked him to place him in a shrine so that regular seva could be performed, and said that divine grace would descend on those who worshipped him further adding “That is why I have revealed myself here.”
(1) MANGLA:
This is the first Jhanki of the day and in winter it takes place before the sunrise while in summer, it is later. In summer he wears a Dhoti while in winter he wears a Coat. Arati is offered and this darshan is dedicated to the memory of Parmanandji (Poet).
(2) SHRINGAR:
An hour after Mangla is the next darshan where Shrinathji is well dressed with a mala of flowers. He is then shown in the mirror and a flute is placed in his hand. He is supposed to play with the children during this time. Dry fruit is offered to Shrinathji and his dress varies according to season and festival. The songs are sung by the poet Nandadas.
(3) GVAL:
This is the third Jhanki when Shrinathji takes his cows to the field. During this darshan Dhoop Deep is performed. The singer in this Jhanki reminds about the singer, Shri Govind swami, Kheer and Rabdi is offered to Shrinathji.
(4) RAJBHOG:
The main darshan of the day is Rajbhog. Shrinathji is well dressed and served with most delicious and nutritious food. An Aarti is performed. The Kirtankar is poet Khumbhandas.
(5) UTHAPAN:
At about 3 p.m. Shrinathji awakes after his noon sleep. Vina is played and Kirtankar is supposed to, be Surdasji.
(6) BHOG:
During this darshan, Shrinathji is offered fruits and light meal. Shrinathji holds conferences with other Gods & Goddesses and one should ask to shrinathji and request him to fulfill the desires. It is in this Darshan one will find Chadidar who is the guard. The kirtankar in this Jhanki is Chaturbhujadas. Dhruv Bari is the place where one can request lord to fulfill his wishes.
(7) SANDHYA ARTI:
This seventh Jhanki is at dusk when the Lord used to bring his cows back to home. The kirtankar is supposed to be Chitarswami. Evening Arti is performed.
(8) SHAYAN:
This is the last Jhanki which emphasis for Shrinathji to retire for the night. An arti is performed. This darshan is usually held for six months. Thakurji is offered paan. The kirtankar is supposed to be krishnadas.
What Means Baithak?
: BAITHAKS :
You have always been fascinated by going on a pilgrimage to the BAITHAKS of Jagadguru Shrimad Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhu. The idea itself generates immense pleasure and joy. The quite, serene ambience, exotic surroundings, fresh tranquil breeze, divine vibrations and above all the sheer presence of Shri Vallabha takes you in a state of transc. Isn't it ? I'm sure many of you must have experienced this. But, those who haven't, don't take long to visit the Baithaks.
But do you actually know what is a Baithak ?
It is quite shocking that in the last quarter of the 20th century, the number of visitors to these Baithaks has been atleast five times more than in all the previous four centuries. Ironically, majority of these tourists / vaishnavas do not know the importance of the place, nor they are conscious of the existence of Shri Vallabha. They go there either because they have to escort their family members or it is a fashion, a trend to go to places like Champaranya or other such places in large groups for picnic, as if it's a party. Disgusting !!
Baithaks are actually those sacred places where Shrimad Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhu has rested, halted or stayed for days, weeks or even months during His three pilgrimages throughout India in order to emancipate the divine souls and/or to execute a specific task. It is here that Shri Mahaprabhuji read the entire Shrimad Bhagavatam or gave discourses on the sacred text revealing it's secrets. On exceptional occassions, He even read the Ramayana as in Ayodhya and Chitrakoot.
Where are these Baithaks ?
There are in all 84 Baithaks of Shri Mahaprabhuji spread accross India. Besides these there are 28 Baithaks of Shri Gusainji, 4 Baithaks Shri Giridharji, 1 Baithak each of Shri Balakrishnaji, Shri Raghunathji and Shri Ghanashyamaji, 13 Baithaks of Shri Gokulnathji and 7 of Shri Harirayaji. Apart from this, there are 3 Baithaks of Shri Damodardas Harsaniji. In all 142 Baithaks.
Over here, the subject matter of this article is the 84 Baithaks of Shri Mahaprabhuji. It is to be noticed that all these Baithaks are situated either on the banks of a river or a fresh water pond or on the outskirts of the village / town in an isolated place. You will also find a Chhokar tree in each and every Baithak as Shri Mahaprabhuji always sat under this tree except in Ujjain where there is a Peepal tree.
As mentioned earlier, these Baithaks are spread accross the whole nation. But we can segregate them zonalwise - in the north there are 39 Baithaks (out of which 22 are in Vraja), 18 in the south, 4 in east, 20 in west and 3 in central part of India. Out of these 84 Baithaks, 65 Baithaks have been physically revealed where devotees flock regularly for worship while the rest are yet to be discovered.
The Divine Form of the Baithak
While circumbulating India, Shri Mahaprabhuji never wore a foot-wear. He always walked bare-footed, blessing the holy land with the touch of His lotus feet. As it is known that Shri Mahaprabhuji granted His foot-prints on a piece of cloth to His disciple and also his Paduka (wooden sandal) to a few of His very dear devotees and ordered them to worship them. Similarly, a particular place where Shri Mahaprabhuji sat for days/weeks, is extremely sacred for us. This Baithak is not just a sand-pit or a marble platform but the sacred dust of the lotus feet of the Spiritual Master that we worship.
The Baithaks are revered in three divine forms; the materialistic form (Adhibhautik Svaroopa), the spiritual form (Adhyatmika Svaroopa) and the transcendental form (Adhidaivika Svaroopa). The physical structure what we see with our eyes is its materialistic form. The series of events which took place in these Baithaks or the divine pastimes of Shri Vallabha is its spiritual form and the presence of Shri Vallabha at present in all the Baithaks is the transcendental form. The former can be seen by all but the latter two can be experienced only by the grace divine of Shri Mahaprabhuji.
From when did the Baithaks came into existence ?
These sacred places, better known as Baithaks came into existence during the life span of Shri Mahaprabhuji. This is quite evident in the stories of 84 and 252 vaishnavas. We get to know that Sheth Purushottamadas of Kashi had gone to Champaranya to see the birth place of his guru. The illustration of a few vaishnavas from Kashi coming to Shri Bhagavandasji's house in Hajipur (Bihar) and having the vision of Shri Mahaprabhuji is also quite clear. 'Bhavasindhu' mentiones of a Baithak in Krishnadeva Raya's palace in Vidyanagaram. From these evidences we can conclude that these places were visited by vaishnavas from that time itself.
On studying the life history of Shri Mahaprabhuji closely, we can presume that there may be more Baithaks than the known 84. For eg. A Baithak in Kavi village falling in Vadodara district of Gujarat. According to 'Vallabha Digvijaya,' Shri Mahaprabhuji had a religious debate with Kapil Brahmins over here. This Baithak is small but beautiful with natural surroundings. Yet, it is not included in the 84 Baithaks. Similarly in Jambusar (Gujarat) then known as Bhanuksetra and Dakor (Kandaksetra), are Baithaks where Shri Mahaprabhuji read the Bhagavatam are also excluded from the main Baithaks. Instincts from vaishnavas opens a possibility that there must be a Baithak of Shri Mahaprabhuji besides the existing Baithaks of Shri Harirayaji.
Pastimes at the Baithaks
Devotees have been regularly visiting these Baithaks from the time of Shri Mahaprbhuji. The devotees have always wondered what instances must have taken place at that time or how Shri Mahaprabhuji must have spent His time during His stay at a particular Baithak. These secrets were not unveiled until Shri Gokulnathji, the fourth son of Shri Gusainji, who, in his daily satsang with his intimate disciples revealed the secrets of the pastimes of Shri Vallabha. The compilations of his teachings are known as 'Baithak Charitra' or the various pastimes of Shri Vallabha at the Baithaks.
Though the number of visitors have increased immensely to the Baithaks still, it is unfortunate that vaishnavas have somehow neglected to read Baithak Charitra in comparison to 84 and 252 vaishnava vartas. Shri Mahaprabhuji travelled extensively throughout India only for the deliverance of the divine souls and preaching the principles of the Shuddhadvaita Brahmavada. Residing in the Baithak He strongly condemned the theory of the mayavadis and firmly revealed the divine form of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Shri Krishna.
It is through these events that we get to know the true character of Jagadguru Mahaprabhu Shrimad Vallabhacharya. How wonderful it would be if we knew about the pastimes of the Baithak which we are about to visit. When we go to a Baithak, we sit quitely besides Shri Mahaprabhuji remembering and experiencing the pastimes. This gives us more pleasure. Therefore, it is essential to know the pastimes of the Baithak before you visit one.
For this reason, we are here giving you breif information of all the Baithaks. We are also providing you the postal addresses and telephone numbers (wherever available) of the Baithaks which will surely be handy in planning your trip. But before you move ahead, I would like to tell you what you will do in a Baithak.
Preparations for a Baithak Yatra
Plan your pilgrimage to a Baithak keeping these things in mind -
• do not forget to take fresh, unused pair of clothes and towel. Gents wear dhoti / uparana / bandi and Ladies, saree or chaniya-choli.
• a full day fast is recommended one day prior to doing aparasa in the Baithak.
• a fresh pair of dhoti / uparana (best quality) for Shri Mahaprabhuji (also, if possible for other baithaks too, if there are any).
• take kum-kum, two tulasi malas, a gaumukhi with a tulasi japa-mala of 108 beads and good quality pure seasonal perfume (attar). Also take mishri (rock candy), dry-fruits, fresh fruits, saffron or any other thing which you feel like offering (only what is acceptable). Also, fresh seasonal flowers to prepare garland.
• keep necessary things like sugar or other stuff if you wish to prepare samagri in Dudhaghara. Also carry required utensils either to prepare the samagri or if you wish to take prasada at the Baithak.
What to do in a Baithak?
After having bath i.e. aparasa, go into the inner sanctum and pay prostrate obeisance (Sashtanga Dandavat) to Shri Vallabha. Ladies do Panchanga Dandavat i.e. bend on one knee. Then wash your hands, put some attar and rub it well on the palms. Seek permission from Mukhiyaji and then do Charanasparsha. After doing charanasparsha fill Jhariji and place it on the left of Shri Mahaprabhuji. After this, do tilak, offer tulasimala, gunjamala and dhoti / uparana. Put some perfume on it. Offer floral garland. Again do charanasparsha and dandavat. Wash hands.
Once you are over with this, offer samagri, mishri, fruits, dry-fruits, milk, etc. to Shri Mahaprabhuji. After you put the bhoga, sing kirtans or chant the Ashtakshara Mahamantra (Shri Krishnah Sharanam Mama) either in your mind or loudly in chorus. You can also recite the Shodasha Granthas or Sarvottama Stotra or any other stotra in praise of Shri Vallabha.
After sometime, remove the bhoga. Do the darshana and kirtans. Discuss the pastimes of Shri Vallabha at that Baithak or read the purport/commentary on the Shodasha Granthas or Subodhiniji or any other grantha.
The most important thing while in a Baithak is to observe discipline. Maintain silence, avoid pushing each other and do not throw litter in the premises.
What is Aparasa ?
The word 'Aparasa' has always confused ignorant vaishnavas. Aparasa is nothing but purity and cleanliness. It was a lifestyle then. Aparasa can be defined as worshipping the Lord in your purest form. We clean our body with water by having bath, but the inner self is cleaned by consuming Charanamritam (a mixture of the sacred dust of the holy land of Vraja and the holy water of the river Yamuna). There are many other rules too which cannot be discussed here.
How to do Aparasa ?
Before going to the toilet, keep your towel inside the bathroom and your clothes in the changing room. Do not touch them after going to the loo. To have bath, do not open the tap of the overhead tank by your own self. You can open it if there is a wooden stick attached to it or ask someone (who has aleady had bath) to do it for you. While bathing, rinse hair properly and see that the cloth you have worn is also completely wet as is your body.
Dry hair and body properly. Wear your clothes. Comb your hair, specially women who tend to keep their hair loose and dripping with water. This causes inconvenience while performing seva and also preparing samagri.
I hope that by reading the above article you will be able to realise the divine form of a Baithak and attain bliss. I also expect you to abide by the rules and make your's and others' Baithak Yatra most joyous, exciting, divine and memorable.
Before concluding, I would like to draw your attention towards the physical / strucural condition of the Baithaks and also its poor infrastructural facilities. Besides a few, mojority of the Baithaks do not even have proper walls and door. They also lack basic facilities like bathrooms / lavatories / changing room, etc. not to mention decent lodging. The employees are absolutely non-cooperative. The management is a total failure and administration is disastrous. Many a times, this leads to disbelief in the minds of the younger generation, who is educated and find their faith shattered.
There are a few organisations who have taken up this matter seriously. For the past decade they have been reparing, renovating even reconstructing the Baithaks with all required facilities. There efforts are extremely praiseworthy but such individual efforts cannot ensure a speedy success. We desparately need to collaborate. All the major organisations / trusts of Pushtimarg should join hands atleast for the sake of Shri Mahaprabhji's Baithaks and for the upliftment of Pushtimarg.
You have always been fascinated by going on a pilgrimage to the BAITHAKS of Jagadguru Shrimad Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhu. The idea itself generates immense pleasure and joy. The quite, serene ambience, exotic surroundings, fresh tranquil breeze, divine vibrations and above all the sheer presence of Shri Vallabha takes you in a state of transc. Isn't it ? I'm sure many of you must have experienced this. But, those who haven't, don't take long to visit the Baithaks.
But do you actually know what is a Baithak ?
It is quite shocking that in the last quarter of the 20th century, the number of visitors to these Baithaks has been atleast five times more than in all the previous four centuries. Ironically, majority of these tourists / vaishnavas do not know the importance of the place, nor they are conscious of the existence of Shri Vallabha. They go there either because they have to escort their family members or it is a fashion, a trend to go to places like Champaranya or other such places in large groups for picnic, as if it's a party. Disgusting !!
Baithaks are actually those sacred places where Shrimad Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhu has rested, halted or stayed for days, weeks or even months during His three pilgrimages throughout India in order to emancipate the divine souls and/or to execute a specific task. It is here that Shri Mahaprabhuji read the entire Shrimad Bhagavatam or gave discourses on the sacred text revealing it's secrets. On exceptional occassions, He even read the Ramayana as in Ayodhya and Chitrakoot.
Where are these Baithaks ?
There are in all 84 Baithaks of Shri Mahaprabhuji spread accross India. Besides these there are 28 Baithaks of Shri Gusainji, 4 Baithaks Shri Giridharji, 1 Baithak each of Shri Balakrishnaji, Shri Raghunathji and Shri Ghanashyamaji, 13 Baithaks of Shri Gokulnathji and 7 of Shri Harirayaji. Apart from this, there are 3 Baithaks of Shri Damodardas Harsaniji. In all 142 Baithaks.
Over here, the subject matter of this article is the 84 Baithaks of Shri Mahaprabhuji. It is to be noticed that all these Baithaks are situated either on the banks of a river or a fresh water pond or on the outskirts of the village / town in an isolated place. You will also find a Chhokar tree in each and every Baithak as Shri Mahaprabhuji always sat under this tree except in Ujjain where there is a Peepal tree.
As mentioned earlier, these Baithaks are spread accross the whole nation. But we can segregate them zonalwise - in the north there are 39 Baithaks (out of which 22 are in Vraja), 18 in the south, 4 in east, 20 in west and 3 in central part of India. Out of these 84 Baithaks, 65 Baithaks have been physically revealed where devotees flock regularly for worship while the rest are yet to be discovered.
The Divine Form of the Baithak
While circumbulating India, Shri Mahaprabhuji never wore a foot-wear. He always walked bare-footed, blessing the holy land with the touch of His lotus feet. As it is known that Shri Mahaprabhuji granted His foot-prints on a piece of cloth to His disciple and also his Paduka (wooden sandal) to a few of His very dear devotees and ordered them to worship them. Similarly, a particular place where Shri Mahaprabhuji sat for days/weeks, is extremely sacred for us. This Baithak is not just a sand-pit or a marble platform but the sacred dust of the lotus feet of the Spiritual Master that we worship.
The Baithaks are revered in three divine forms; the materialistic form (Adhibhautik Svaroopa), the spiritual form (Adhyatmika Svaroopa) and the transcendental form (Adhidaivika Svaroopa). The physical structure what we see with our eyes is its materialistic form. The series of events which took place in these Baithaks or the divine pastimes of Shri Vallabha is its spiritual form and the presence of Shri Vallabha at present in all the Baithaks is the transcendental form. The former can be seen by all but the latter two can be experienced only by the grace divine of Shri Mahaprabhuji.
From when did the Baithaks came into existence ?
These sacred places, better known as Baithaks came into existence during the life span of Shri Mahaprabhuji. This is quite evident in the stories of 84 and 252 vaishnavas. We get to know that Sheth Purushottamadas of Kashi had gone to Champaranya to see the birth place of his guru. The illustration of a few vaishnavas from Kashi coming to Shri Bhagavandasji's house in Hajipur (Bihar) and having the vision of Shri Mahaprabhuji is also quite clear. 'Bhavasindhu' mentiones of a Baithak in Krishnadeva Raya's palace in Vidyanagaram. From these evidences we can conclude that these places were visited by vaishnavas from that time itself.
On studying the life history of Shri Mahaprabhuji closely, we can presume that there may be more Baithaks than the known 84. For eg. A Baithak in Kavi village falling in Vadodara district of Gujarat. According to 'Vallabha Digvijaya,' Shri Mahaprabhuji had a religious debate with Kapil Brahmins over here. This Baithak is small but beautiful with natural surroundings. Yet, it is not included in the 84 Baithaks. Similarly in Jambusar (Gujarat) then known as Bhanuksetra and Dakor (Kandaksetra), are Baithaks where Shri Mahaprabhuji read the Bhagavatam are also excluded from the main Baithaks. Instincts from vaishnavas opens a possibility that there must be a Baithak of Shri Mahaprabhuji besides the existing Baithaks of Shri Harirayaji.
Pastimes at the Baithaks
Devotees have been regularly visiting these Baithaks from the time of Shri Mahaprbhuji. The devotees have always wondered what instances must have taken place at that time or how Shri Mahaprabhuji must have spent His time during His stay at a particular Baithak. These secrets were not unveiled until Shri Gokulnathji, the fourth son of Shri Gusainji, who, in his daily satsang with his intimate disciples revealed the secrets of the pastimes of Shri Vallabha. The compilations of his teachings are known as 'Baithak Charitra' or the various pastimes of Shri Vallabha at the Baithaks.
Though the number of visitors have increased immensely to the Baithaks still, it is unfortunate that vaishnavas have somehow neglected to read Baithak Charitra in comparison to 84 and 252 vaishnava vartas. Shri Mahaprabhuji travelled extensively throughout India only for the deliverance of the divine souls and preaching the principles of the Shuddhadvaita Brahmavada. Residing in the Baithak He strongly condemned the theory of the mayavadis and firmly revealed the divine form of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Shri Krishna.
It is through these events that we get to know the true character of Jagadguru Mahaprabhu Shrimad Vallabhacharya. How wonderful it would be if we knew about the pastimes of the Baithak which we are about to visit. When we go to a Baithak, we sit quitely besides Shri Mahaprabhuji remembering and experiencing the pastimes. This gives us more pleasure. Therefore, it is essential to know the pastimes of the Baithak before you visit one.
For this reason, we are here giving you breif information of all the Baithaks. We are also providing you the postal addresses and telephone numbers (wherever available) of the Baithaks which will surely be handy in planning your trip. But before you move ahead, I would like to tell you what you will do in a Baithak.
Preparations for a Baithak Yatra
Plan your pilgrimage to a Baithak keeping these things in mind -
• do not forget to take fresh, unused pair of clothes and towel. Gents wear dhoti / uparana / bandi and Ladies, saree or chaniya-choli.
• a full day fast is recommended one day prior to doing aparasa in the Baithak.
• a fresh pair of dhoti / uparana (best quality) for Shri Mahaprabhuji (also, if possible for other baithaks too, if there are any).
• take kum-kum, two tulasi malas, a gaumukhi with a tulasi japa-mala of 108 beads and good quality pure seasonal perfume (attar). Also take mishri (rock candy), dry-fruits, fresh fruits, saffron or any other thing which you feel like offering (only what is acceptable). Also, fresh seasonal flowers to prepare garland.
• keep necessary things like sugar or other stuff if you wish to prepare samagri in Dudhaghara. Also carry required utensils either to prepare the samagri or if you wish to take prasada at the Baithak.
What to do in a Baithak?
After having bath i.e. aparasa, go into the inner sanctum and pay prostrate obeisance (Sashtanga Dandavat) to Shri Vallabha. Ladies do Panchanga Dandavat i.e. bend on one knee. Then wash your hands, put some attar and rub it well on the palms. Seek permission from Mukhiyaji and then do Charanasparsha. After doing charanasparsha fill Jhariji and place it on the left of Shri Mahaprabhuji. After this, do tilak, offer tulasimala, gunjamala and dhoti / uparana. Put some perfume on it. Offer floral garland. Again do charanasparsha and dandavat. Wash hands.
Once you are over with this, offer samagri, mishri, fruits, dry-fruits, milk, etc. to Shri Mahaprabhuji. After you put the bhoga, sing kirtans or chant the Ashtakshara Mahamantra (Shri Krishnah Sharanam Mama) either in your mind or loudly in chorus. You can also recite the Shodasha Granthas or Sarvottama Stotra or any other stotra in praise of Shri Vallabha.
After sometime, remove the bhoga. Do the darshana and kirtans. Discuss the pastimes of Shri Vallabha at that Baithak or read the purport/commentary on the Shodasha Granthas or Subodhiniji or any other grantha.
The most important thing while in a Baithak is to observe discipline. Maintain silence, avoid pushing each other and do not throw litter in the premises.
What is Aparasa ?
The word 'Aparasa' has always confused ignorant vaishnavas. Aparasa is nothing but purity and cleanliness. It was a lifestyle then. Aparasa can be defined as worshipping the Lord in your purest form. We clean our body with water by having bath, but the inner self is cleaned by consuming Charanamritam (a mixture of the sacred dust of the holy land of Vraja and the holy water of the river Yamuna). There are many other rules too which cannot be discussed here.
How to do Aparasa ?
Before going to the toilet, keep your towel inside the bathroom and your clothes in the changing room. Do not touch them after going to the loo. To have bath, do not open the tap of the overhead tank by your own self. You can open it if there is a wooden stick attached to it or ask someone (who has aleady had bath) to do it for you. While bathing, rinse hair properly and see that the cloth you have worn is also completely wet as is your body.
Dry hair and body properly. Wear your clothes. Comb your hair, specially women who tend to keep their hair loose and dripping with water. This causes inconvenience while performing seva and also preparing samagri.
I hope that by reading the above article you will be able to realise the divine form of a Baithak and attain bliss. I also expect you to abide by the rules and make your's and others' Baithak Yatra most joyous, exciting, divine and memorable.
Before concluding, I would like to draw your attention towards the physical / strucural condition of the Baithaks and also its poor infrastructural facilities. Besides a few, mojority of the Baithaks do not even have proper walls and door. They also lack basic facilities like bathrooms / lavatories / changing room, etc. not to mention decent lodging. The employees are absolutely non-cooperative. The management is a total failure and administration is disastrous. Many a times, this leads to disbelief in the minds of the younger generation, who is educated and find their faith shattered.
There are a few organisations who have taken up this matter seriously. For the past decade they have been reparing, renovating even reconstructing the Baithaks with all required facilities. There efforts are extremely praiseworthy but such individual efforts cannot ensure a speedy success. We desparately need to collaborate. All the major organisations / trusts of Pushtimarg should join hands atleast for the sake of Shri Mahaprabhji's Baithaks and for the upliftment of Pushtimarg.
Shiddhant Rahasya
Shiddhant Rahasya :
This is one of the most important works of Shri Mahaprabhuji. In this granth Shri Vallabh has laid the foundation of Pushtimarg.
Shri Vallabh took birth in this world to take back the daivi jivas (pure souls) to the heavenly abode of prabhu - Gauloka. But on coming to earth Shri Vallabh became worried that jiva is full of vices (doshas) and prabhu is so pure, how can both be associated because there is no way to make a jiva nirdosh (pure) for meeting God. During his second Prithvi Parikrama Shri Vallabh was in Gokul and on the 11th day of the bright half of Shravana month he was lying down at Govind Ghat but he was very much engrossed in the above mentioned problem. There Shri Thakorji himself appeared and promised Shri Vallabh that he will accept jiva initiated by Shri Vallabh or his descendants through 'Brahma-sambandh' mantra, irrespective of the jivas failings or impurities. Shri Vallabh has described the whole episode, word by word, in the grantha 'Siddhant Rahasya'. Shri Vallabh initiated Shri Damodardasji as the first vaishnav of Pushtimarg the following morning.
Shloka 1
Shravansyamlepakshe ekadashyam mahanishi I
Sakshaat Bhagwataaproktam tadaksharasha uchyate II1II
On the midnight of the 11th day during the bright half of the month of Shravana, what Lord Krishna told me, I will recite verbatimII1II (Note : By stating time etc. Shri Vallabh declares that this path of divine grace is revealed to him by God himself though bhakti is described in scriptures.)
Shloka 2
Brahma-sambandh karanaat sarveshaam dehjivayoho I
Sarvadoshnivritirhi doshaha panchvidha smritaha II2II
Shri Krishna told me that after dedicating himself and all his belongings to God i.e after Brahma-sambandh the impurities of the soul are totally removed. It is said that there are five types of impuritiesII2II
Shloka 3
Sahajadeshkaalotha lokvedniroopitaha I
Sainyogajasparshjashcha na nivriti kathanchana ll3ll
Impurities mentioned in the Vedas and world are 1) By Birth 2) Place 3) Time 4) Circumstance 5) Physical contact. All the five doshas (impurities) are not counted after taking Brahma-sambandh.
Shloka 4
Anyathasarvadoshnam na nivriti kathanchana I
Asamarpitvastoonam tasmadvarjanamachreta II4II
These impurities can never be removed without contact with Brahma through Brahma-sambandh. Therefore anything not offered to or used by the brahma i.e God should not be used by us alsoII4II
Shloka 5
Nivedibhi samarpyaiva sarvamkuryaditisthiti I
Na matam devadevasya swamibhuktsamarpanam II5II
Dedicated souls (Brahma-sambandhi jivas) should perform all actions & activities by first dedicating them to God, this should be the way of life for a bhakta (devotee). Any article which we had used previously should never be offered to God as it is considerd 'Swami-Bhukta' (half-eaten/used).
Shloka 6
Tasmaadadausarvakarye sarvavastusamarpanam I
Dataapaharavachanam tathaacha sakalam hareh II6II
Na Grahyamitivaakyam hi bhinamargam param matam l
Before doing any activity all should be offered to God, the statement that says that "We cannot use articles which we had offered to God" are not related to Pushtimarg but to some other form of bhakti. (In fact in Pushtimarg we must use every article believing it to be the prasad of God)II6II
Shloka 7
Sevakanamyatha loke vyavahar prasidhyati ll7ll
Tathakaryamsamarpyaiva sarveshaambrahmataatatha
l like good servant are known in world for selfless service, so are the devotees of God. By doing so (offering everything to God first) everything becomes godly for the devotee and everything offered becomes free from impuritiesII7II
Shloka 8
Gangatvamsarvadoshnam gunadoshaadi varnana ll8ll
Gangatvena niroopyasyat tadvadatraapi chaiva hi l
Just as impure water becomes Ganga after coming into contact with river Ganga, it is no longer known by it's good or bad attributes but as river Ganga only. Similarly anything offered to God becomes pure & perfectly divine once God accepts itII8II
This is one of the most important works of Shri Mahaprabhuji. In this granth Shri Vallabh has laid the foundation of Pushtimarg.
Shri Vallabh took birth in this world to take back the daivi jivas (pure souls) to the heavenly abode of prabhu - Gauloka. But on coming to earth Shri Vallabh became worried that jiva is full of vices (doshas) and prabhu is so pure, how can both be associated because there is no way to make a jiva nirdosh (pure) for meeting God. During his second Prithvi Parikrama Shri Vallabh was in Gokul and on the 11th day of the bright half of Shravana month he was lying down at Govind Ghat but he was very much engrossed in the above mentioned problem. There Shri Thakorji himself appeared and promised Shri Vallabh that he will accept jiva initiated by Shri Vallabh or his descendants through 'Brahma-sambandh' mantra, irrespective of the jivas failings or impurities. Shri Vallabh has described the whole episode, word by word, in the grantha 'Siddhant Rahasya'. Shri Vallabh initiated Shri Damodardasji as the first vaishnav of Pushtimarg the following morning.
Shloka 1
Shravansyamlepakshe ekadashyam mahanishi I
Sakshaat Bhagwataaproktam tadaksharasha uchyate II1II
On the midnight of the 11th day during the bright half of the month of Shravana, what Lord Krishna told me, I will recite verbatimII1II (Note : By stating time etc. Shri Vallabh declares that this path of divine grace is revealed to him by God himself though bhakti is described in scriptures.)
Shloka 2
Brahma-sambandh karanaat sarveshaam dehjivayoho I
Sarvadoshnivritirhi doshaha panchvidha smritaha II2II
Shri Krishna told me that after dedicating himself and all his belongings to God i.e after Brahma-sambandh the impurities of the soul are totally removed. It is said that there are five types of impuritiesII2II
Shloka 3
Sahajadeshkaalotha lokvedniroopitaha I
Sainyogajasparshjashcha na nivriti kathanchana ll3ll
Impurities mentioned in the Vedas and world are 1) By Birth 2) Place 3) Time 4) Circumstance 5) Physical contact. All the five doshas (impurities) are not counted after taking Brahma-sambandh.
Shloka 4
Anyathasarvadoshnam na nivriti kathanchana I
Asamarpitvastoonam tasmadvarjanamachreta II4II
These impurities can never be removed without contact with Brahma through Brahma-sambandh. Therefore anything not offered to or used by the brahma i.e God should not be used by us alsoII4II
Shloka 5
Nivedibhi samarpyaiva sarvamkuryaditisthiti I
Na matam devadevasya swamibhuktsamarpanam II5II
Dedicated souls (Brahma-sambandhi jivas) should perform all actions & activities by first dedicating them to God, this should be the way of life for a bhakta (devotee). Any article which we had used previously should never be offered to God as it is considerd 'Swami-Bhukta' (half-eaten/used).
Shloka 6
Tasmaadadausarvakarye sarvavastusamarpanam I
Dataapaharavachanam tathaacha sakalam hareh II6II
Na Grahyamitivaakyam hi bhinamargam param matam l
Before doing any activity all should be offered to God, the statement that says that "We cannot use articles which we had offered to God" are not related to Pushtimarg but to some other form of bhakti. (In fact in Pushtimarg we must use every article believing it to be the prasad of God)II6II
Shloka 7
Sevakanamyatha loke vyavahar prasidhyati ll7ll
Tathakaryamsamarpyaiva sarveshaambrahmataatatha
l like good servant are known in world for selfless service, so are the devotees of God. By doing so (offering everything to God first) everything becomes godly for the devotee and everything offered becomes free from impuritiesII7II
Shloka 8
Gangatvamsarvadoshnam gunadoshaadi varnana ll8ll
Gangatvena niroopyasyat tadvadatraapi chaiva hi l
Just as impure water becomes Ganga after coming into contact with river Ganga, it is no longer known by it's good or bad attributes but as river Ganga only. Similarly anything offered to God becomes pure & perfectly divine once God accepts itII8II
Yamunashtak
Shri Yamushtakam is the first among the sixteen works known as shodashgranth. This particular granth is composed by Shri Vallabh in v.s.1549(1491 A.D.) on the Shraavan Shukla 3 during the prithvi parikrama Shri Vallabh was in Gokul and he was undecided about the exact place of Thakurani Ghat. At that time Shri Yamunaji herself appeared and guided Shri Vallabh and pointed out the exact place. Shri Vallabh than and there composed Shri Yamunashtakam,the beautiful stotra,in the praise of Shri Yamunaji. It consists 9 verses,eight of them are written in praise of Yamunaji and in 9th Shri Vallabh describes for daily paath- doers the fruits of Shri Yamunashtakam.
The fourth beloved (turyapriya)of Shri Krishna,Shri Yamunaji is epitome of selfless devotion towards Krishna,and only through her or her Kripa(grace) a jeeva(soul) can experience the param phal i.e. leela-pravesh. She purifies souls and removes all obstacles which are in the way between jeev and prabhu and gives the exalted jeeva a new body fit to experience the leela-phal-"tanu-navtva"! For ordinary bhakta of to-day the recital of Yamunashtakam daily will enhance his love towards Shri Krishna,abolish his paap-bad deeds and above all the bhakta will be able conquer his svabhava-basic instincts.
Shloka 1
Namami Yamunamaham sakal-siddhi-hetum-muda
Murari-pad-pankaj-sfurad-amand-renutkatam I
Tatastha-nav-kanan-prakat-mod-pushpambuna
Sur-asur-supujit smarpitu shriyam bibhratim II1II
I (Shri Vallabh)bow joyfully to Shri Yamunaji,the giver of divine super natural powers for experiencing the bhagvadleela. Shri Yamunaji is loaded with the glistening sands emanating from the lotus feet of Murari Shri Krishna. The water of Shri Yamuna is scented with the perfumes of blossomed flowers from the forests located on the banks of Shri Yamuna,such Shri Yamuna is worshipped by gods and demons equally. II1II
Shloka 2
Kalindagirimastake patadamanda poorojvalaa
Vilasagamanollasat Prakataganda shailonnata I
Saghoshagati danturaa samadhiroodha dolottamma
Mukundarativardhini jayati padmabandhosuta II2II
"Falling forcefully on Mount Kalinda Shri Yamunaji appers to be crystal white and looks beautiful with her luxurious flow through cheek like rocks of mountain. Shri Yamunaji follows a zig-zag path noisily and while she flows up and down she looks as if sitting on a beautiful swing. Shri Yamunaji is superior as she enhances our love towards lotus-feet of Lord Mukund. II2II
Shloka 3
Bhuvam bhuvanapaavaneem adhigatamanekasvanai
Priyabhirivasevitaam Shuka-Mayur-Hansadibhee I
Tarangabhujakankana prakatamuktikavaluka
Nitambatatasundareem namata Krishnaturya-priyaam II3II
Bow down to Shri Yamunaji the fourth beloved of Lord Shri Krishna,who has come down to earth to sanctify it and on earth she is served by parrots,peacocks,swans etc. with melodious noises as if served by loving friends. Shri Yamunaji wears bangles in the form of waves and sand on them looks like pearls. Shri Yamunaji looks beautiful with hips in the form of her two banks. II3II
Shloka 4
Anant-gun-bhushite Shiv-viranchi-devstute
Ghanaghannibhe sada Dhruv-Parasharabhistade
Vishuddha-Mathura-tate sakal-gop-gopivrite
Kripajaladhi-sanshrite mam manah sukham bhavay II4II
Shri Yamunaji is adorned with countless virtues and is worshipped by Shiv,Brahma and other gods. She has a lustre of rain filled clouds and fulfilles the desires of sages like Dhruv and Parasher. Pious city Mathura is situated on her banks and she is surrounded by gop and gopees whose only refuge is kripasagar Shri Krishna.O Shri Yamuna! please bless me with the happiness of mind II4II
Shloka 5
Yaya charan-padmaja Mur-ripoh priyam-bhavuka
Samagamanato-bhavat sakal-siddhida sevtam I
Taya sadrashtamiyat Kamalja-sapatniv yat
Hari-priya-kalindaya mansi me sada sthiytam II5II
Shri Gangaji who has emerged from the lotus feet of God could become beloved of Krishna and fulfilled every wish of her followers only after her merger with Shri Yamunaji. Shri Yamunaji can be compared with lotus born Shri Laxmiji only, who is also Shri Krishna's beloved. Shri Yamunaji who destroys all the ills of Shri Krishna's devotees may live in my (Shri Vallabh's)heart forever. II5II
Shloka 6
Namostu Yamune sada tav charitrmatyadbhutam
Na jatu yama-yatana bhavati te payah-panatah I
Yamopi bhagini-sutan kathamu hanti dushtanapi
Priyo bhavati sevanat tav harer-yatha gopikah II6II
O Shri Yamuna! Your character is wonderful!! A person who partakes your water has no fear of pain inflicted by Yama-the god of death-as how could he hurt his sister’s sons(devotees)however wicked they may be because they become beloved of Shri Krishna like Gopikas by serving you! O Shri Yamuna! Let us pay obeisance to you incessantly.II6II
Shloka 7
Mamastu tav sannidhau tanu-navatvam-etavata
Na durlabhtama ratih Mur-ripau Mukund-priye I
Atostu tav lalana surdhuni param sangamat
Tavaiv bhuvi kirtita na tu kadapi pushti-sthitaih II7II
O beloved of Mukund Shri Yamuna! By your nearness let my body become new(worthy) so to gain the love of Shri Krishna-the enemy of demon Mura- is not difficult. So let us shower you with love(by prayers) as Ganga became famous only after merging with you and was not worshipped by Pushti-Jivas before that.II7II
Shloka 8
Stutim tav karoti kah Kamalaja-sapatni priye
Harer-yadanu sevaya bhavati saukhya-mamokshatah I
Iyam tav kathadhika sakalgopika-sangam-
smar-shram-jalanubhi sakal-gatrajaih sangamah II8II
oh! Shri Yamunaji! the co-wife of Laxmiji! The beloved of Krishna!! no one is competent enough to praise you. By worshipping Laxmi with Shri Hari one gets the bliss of salvation only while you give much more- as your water is mixed with sweat generated by the bodies of Shri Krishna and Gopikas while having exotic sports and by worshipping you the devotee gets the bliss of this too.II8II
Shloka 9
Tavashtakamidam muda pathati soor-sute sada
Samast-durita-kshyo bhavati vai Mukunde ratih I
Taya sakal-siddhayo Mur-ripushcha santushyati
Svabhav-vijayo bhavet vadati Vallabh Shri-Hareh II9II
O Shri Yamuna! Daughter of Sun!! A person who always recites these eight stanzas with joy gets freedom from all of his sins and he surely gets affection of Lord Shri Krishna by which he attains all the super natural powers. Shri Krishna-the enemy of demon Mura-becomes satisfied and devotee conquers his nature so says Shri Vallabh.II9II
The fourth beloved (turyapriya)of Shri Krishna,Shri Yamunaji is epitome of selfless devotion towards Krishna,and only through her or her Kripa(grace) a jeeva(soul) can experience the param phal i.e. leela-pravesh. She purifies souls and removes all obstacles which are in the way between jeev and prabhu and gives the exalted jeeva a new body fit to experience the leela-phal-"tanu-navtva"! For ordinary bhakta of to-day the recital of Yamunashtakam daily will enhance his love towards Shri Krishna,abolish his paap-bad deeds and above all the bhakta will be able conquer his svabhava-basic instincts.
Shloka 1
Namami Yamunamaham sakal-siddhi-hetum-muda
Murari-pad-pankaj-sfurad-amand-renutkatam I
Tatastha-nav-kanan-prakat-mod-pushpambuna
Sur-asur-supujit smarpitu shriyam bibhratim II1II
I (Shri Vallabh)bow joyfully to Shri Yamunaji,the giver of divine super natural powers for experiencing the bhagvadleela. Shri Yamunaji is loaded with the glistening sands emanating from the lotus feet of Murari Shri Krishna. The water of Shri Yamuna is scented with the perfumes of blossomed flowers from the forests located on the banks of Shri Yamuna,such Shri Yamuna is worshipped by gods and demons equally. II1II
Shloka 2
Kalindagirimastake patadamanda poorojvalaa
Vilasagamanollasat Prakataganda shailonnata I
Saghoshagati danturaa samadhiroodha dolottamma
Mukundarativardhini jayati padmabandhosuta II2II
"Falling forcefully on Mount Kalinda Shri Yamunaji appers to be crystal white and looks beautiful with her luxurious flow through cheek like rocks of mountain. Shri Yamunaji follows a zig-zag path noisily and while she flows up and down she looks as if sitting on a beautiful swing. Shri Yamunaji is superior as she enhances our love towards lotus-feet of Lord Mukund. II2II
Shloka 3
Bhuvam bhuvanapaavaneem adhigatamanekasvanai
Priyabhirivasevitaam Shuka-Mayur-Hansadibhee I
Tarangabhujakankana prakatamuktikavaluka
Nitambatatasundareem namata Krishnaturya-priyaam II3II
Bow down to Shri Yamunaji the fourth beloved of Lord Shri Krishna,who has come down to earth to sanctify it and on earth she is served by parrots,peacocks,swans etc. with melodious noises as if served by loving friends. Shri Yamunaji wears bangles in the form of waves and sand on them looks like pearls. Shri Yamunaji looks beautiful with hips in the form of her two banks. II3II
Shloka 4
Anant-gun-bhushite Shiv-viranchi-devstute
Ghanaghannibhe sada Dhruv-Parasharabhistade
Vishuddha-Mathura-tate sakal-gop-gopivrite
Kripajaladhi-sanshrite mam manah sukham bhavay II4II
Shri Yamunaji is adorned with countless virtues and is worshipped by Shiv,Brahma and other gods. She has a lustre of rain filled clouds and fulfilles the desires of sages like Dhruv and Parasher. Pious city Mathura is situated on her banks and she is surrounded by gop and gopees whose only refuge is kripasagar Shri Krishna.O Shri Yamuna! please bless me with the happiness of mind II4II
Shloka 5
Yaya charan-padmaja Mur-ripoh priyam-bhavuka
Samagamanato-bhavat sakal-siddhida sevtam I
Taya sadrashtamiyat Kamalja-sapatniv yat
Hari-priya-kalindaya mansi me sada sthiytam II5II
Shri Gangaji who has emerged from the lotus feet of God could become beloved of Krishna and fulfilled every wish of her followers only after her merger with Shri Yamunaji. Shri Yamunaji can be compared with lotus born Shri Laxmiji only, who is also Shri Krishna's beloved. Shri Yamunaji who destroys all the ills of Shri Krishna's devotees may live in my (Shri Vallabh's)heart forever. II5II
Shloka 6
Namostu Yamune sada tav charitrmatyadbhutam
Na jatu yama-yatana bhavati te payah-panatah I
Yamopi bhagini-sutan kathamu hanti dushtanapi
Priyo bhavati sevanat tav harer-yatha gopikah II6II
O Shri Yamuna! Your character is wonderful!! A person who partakes your water has no fear of pain inflicted by Yama-the god of death-as how could he hurt his sister’s sons(devotees)however wicked they may be because they become beloved of Shri Krishna like Gopikas by serving you! O Shri Yamuna! Let us pay obeisance to you incessantly.II6II
Shloka 7
Mamastu tav sannidhau tanu-navatvam-etavata
Na durlabhtama ratih Mur-ripau Mukund-priye I
Atostu tav lalana surdhuni param sangamat
Tavaiv bhuvi kirtita na tu kadapi pushti-sthitaih II7II
O beloved of Mukund Shri Yamuna! By your nearness let my body become new(worthy) so to gain the love of Shri Krishna-the enemy of demon Mura- is not difficult. So let us shower you with love(by prayers) as Ganga became famous only after merging with you and was not worshipped by Pushti-Jivas before that.II7II
Shloka 8
Stutim tav karoti kah Kamalaja-sapatni priye
Harer-yadanu sevaya bhavati saukhya-mamokshatah I
Iyam tav kathadhika sakalgopika-sangam-
smar-shram-jalanubhi sakal-gatrajaih sangamah II8II
oh! Shri Yamunaji! the co-wife of Laxmiji! The beloved of Krishna!! no one is competent enough to praise you. By worshipping Laxmi with Shri Hari one gets the bliss of salvation only while you give much more- as your water is mixed with sweat generated by the bodies of Shri Krishna and Gopikas while having exotic sports and by worshipping you the devotee gets the bliss of this too.II8II
Shloka 9
Tavashtakamidam muda pathati soor-sute sada
Samast-durita-kshyo bhavati vai Mukunde ratih I
Taya sakal-siddhayo Mur-ripushcha santushyati
Svabhav-vijayo bhavet vadati Vallabh Shri-Hareh II9II
O Shri Yamuna! Daughter of Sun!! A person who always recites these eight stanzas with joy gets freedom from all of his sins and he surely gets affection of Lord Shri Krishna by which he attains all the super natural powers. Shri Krishna-the enemy of demon Mura-becomes satisfied and devotee conquers his nature so says Shri Vallabh.II9II
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