Chapter Twenty Sayahna-Lila : The Evening Pastimes 6:00 p.m.8:24 p.m.

Krishna enjoys a light refreshment, bathes, dresses, milks the cows and dines with his family. Radhika listens to news of Krishna, sends sweets to Nandalaya, and relishes Krishna prasad with her sakhis Gaura Chandrika : Sri Nabadwips Sayahna Lila sAyantanIM kRSNa-manojJa-lIlAM snAnAzanAdyAM hi muhur vicintya sva-bhakta-madhyenukaroti nityaM tAM yo manas taM bhaja gauracandram Prema overtakes Gaurachandra as he remembers Krishnas manohara sayahna lila..... and he relishes these mellows while performing sankirtan with his bhaktas! Hence Gaurachandras body becomes decorated with sattvika vikaras such as horripilation, goose-bumps the size of kadamba flowers, and tears that rival the Suradhunis waves. (Bhvan-sra-sagraha 6.1) The Gutika expands on this sutra: Mahaprabhu is sitting above the house in the chandra shala as the bhaktas surround the Lord, Svarupa Damodar begins singing. His kirtan describes Dhanishthas arrival at Javat, and her narration of Krishnas present activities in Radhas assembly. But then Ishana comes to inform the Lord: Oh Mahaprabho! Your mother is calling; please come and take some refreshment! When Gaurahari hears Ishanas voice, his Vraja bhavavesha breaks. Thus he and the bhaktas come down to the dining room for enjoying fruits, sweets and kshira. Afterwards, Mahaprabhu washes his mouth, takes tambul and returns to Svarupa Damodars kirtan at the chandrashala. The topics now focuses on Krishnas milking the cows at the goshala. After relishing these mellows for a while, Ishana returns to relay Mother Shachis message: Oh Gaurhare! Come and take darshan of Sri Narayans arati! Thus the Lords Radha bhava breaks, he shouts Haribol! and the kirtan stops! Then everyone follows Mahaprabhu to the jaga mohana. As the mandirs doors open, Gadadhar Pandit begins the arati. Gauranga dances in radha-bhava and the bhaktas play various instruments while performing sankirtan. Then Gadadhar comes out to offer arati to the Three Prabhus. At the aratis conclusion, Gadadhar offers everyone shanti jala from the conchshell, prasadi malas and chandan. Meanwhile, many Nabadwip vasis come to greet Gaurasundar. They bring flower garlands, chandan and various other gifts. So Sachinandan continues his sankirtan so that they can take part. Then he blesses them, saying: Return home and worship Krishna. When Gaurasundar returns to chandra-shala Svarupa continues singing. But this time the topic is Krishnas sayahna bhojan. Meanwhile, Gadadhar offers the evening bhoga to Lord Narayan and puts the Lord to rest. Then Mahaprabhu and the bhaktas are called. Sri Jagannath Mishra and his relatives all sit with Gauranga and his bhaktas and Mother Sachi directs the serving. There are numerous fried items, shaka, dala, sabjis, chatneys, sweets and paramanna (sweet rice). When Sachi

sees Gauranga eating to his full satisfaction, her bliss is boundless! After enjoying the meal, Gaurasundar washes himself and everyone retires for a brief rest. Although there are other versions of Gaurasundars sayahna lila, this one closely matches Govindallmtas narration. Srila Chakravartipada writes that Gaurasundar goes to the suradhuni at this time to bathe and to perform Ganga-puja. The puja ceremony includes an offering of ghee lamps that are set in clay vessels. The Lord and his bhaktas offer them (in circular motions) to Ganga devi. Then the lamps are set afloat. On the way back, Gaura-arati takes place in a forest kunja besides the Ganga. This pracina Gaura-arati pada is by Vira Vallabha dasa:

bhali gaura-cAndera Arati boni bAje saGkirtane sumadhura dhvani zaGkha bAje ghaNTA bAje bAje koratAla madhura mridaGga bAje zuite rasAla vividha kusuma phule gole vanamAla zate koti chandra jinni vadana ujjvala brahma adi deva yare karajoda kore sahasra vadane phani shire chatra dhare ziva zuka narada veda vicare nAhi paratpara bhAve vibhore shrinivasa haridAsa maGgala gAoye narahari gadadhara camara dhulaoye vira vallabha dAsa shri gaura caraNa aSa jaga bhari roholo mahima prakaza All glories to Gaurachandras forest arati, where madhura sankirtan is going on. Conchshells, ringing bells, karatalas and sweets mridanga playing all form a delightful concert. A mala (with many select flowers) adorns Gaurasundars chest, and his radiant face is brighter than a million moons! All of the devatas (headed by Brahma) view the arati with folded hands, learned ersons such as Shiva, shukadeva, Narada and Veda-Vyasa are stunned by Gaurasundars beauty! Srinivasa and Haridasas singing is spirited, and Narahari and Gadadhar fan Gaura by twirling chamara whisks. Vira vallabha dasa says, Let the world hear about Gaurachandras gloriesmy desires rest at his lotus feet. (On examining this pada, we can see that Bhaktivinoda Thakur has followed this theme and even borrowed some of the lines in his Jaya jaya gauracandrera aratika shobha arati song.) 1. Vrajas Sayahna Lila Sutra sAyaM rAdhA sva-sakhyA nija-ramaNa-kRte preSitAneka-bhojyAM

sakhyAnIteza-zeSAzana-mudita-hRdaM tAM ca tAM ca vrajendum | susnAtaM ramya-vezaM gRham anu jananI lAlitaM prApta-goSThaM nirvyUDhosrAli-dohaM sva-gRham anu punar bhuktavantaM smarAmi 1 Radha sends some sakhis to Nandalaya with the sweets for Krishnas sayahna bhojan. And after Krishna enjoys his meal, the sakhis return to please Radha with Krishnas maha prasad and the news of his activities. Meanwhile Krishna is bathed and dressed with enchanting attire. And afterwards his mother and the ladies of the house fondle him. Then Krishna goes to milk the cows and returns to enjoy evening bhojan with his family members. Lets thus remember Radha and Krishnas sayahna lilas. (Sri Rupa Goswami's Smarana-mangala 8 ) Here it is a brief prelude from Krishna-bhavanamrita: As Govinda returns from the forest, the svarga naris watch from their aeroplanes and begin conversing amongst themselves: Hey sakhi! one damsel says, Krishna and sun are both effulgent, and theyre both the padminis nitya bandhus. So lets compare them: We see that the sun rises in the sky, whereas Krishna remains on the ground. This reminds me of two objects placed on a scale; the light one rises and the heavy one goes down. Another ramani comments: Hey sakhi! Such a comparison only shows the Creators stupidity! Would a learned person compare gold with a stone? So what resemblance do we find between Krishna and the sun? Youre right! the other svarga damsel answers, The sun only rises in the daytime, yet Krishna always remains effulgent! The sun only aids our vision, yet Krishnas darshan awards paramananda! And although Surya promotes varnashrama dharmaKrishna awards prema, even to the mobile and immobile entities! Another ramani adds: The suns rays are scorching, whereas Krishnas kanti is soothing and mild. The sun has thousands of go (rays), yet Krishna has thousand of go (cows). The sun destroys the darkness outside, yet Krishna destroys everyones darkness (mode of ignorance) from within. The sun becomes covered by the clouds, Krishnas complexion defeats the clouds beauty. The other svarga damsel goes on: Although the sunrise unites the timid chakravakas and makes them happy, the sunset brings their repeated distress. But Krishnas lotus hands always please the timid Vraja sundaris chakravakas-breasts! The sun increases the earths fortune, but only before sunset. Yet Krishna renders the earth a maha tirtha by the constant touch of his charana kamala! Another svarga sundari says, Look! Both Krishna and sun fulfill the gavadhishvaras desires at dusk. Surya sets in the west to please the varuna, and Krishna heads to please the yugala gavadhishvara (Nanda Yashoda). But unfortunately for us, when Krishna enters his home we will miss seeing him! Thus, as the heavenly devis discuss Krishnas qualities, their sweet voices pour amrita into the ears. The word gavadhishvara asha anugami mean Krishna heading west. Yet the varuna dikpala nagari (the sundari ramani of the western sky), due to moha, mistakenly believes that Krishna is coming to see her! Thus she turns red with Krishna anuraga (the sky displays a beautiful sunset).

When nearing home, Krishna passes along the narrow alley-ways. So from their balconies, the Vraja sundaris begin showering him with flower petals moistened with their tears (the pushpanjali of their wet lotus eyes)! And feeling their touch, Kanai looks up, but then the svarga sundari surmise: Oh! Kanai is looking at us! Thus their bodies erupt with goosebumps as they praise their fortune! But this shouldnt be taken as a fault on their part, because for beautiful-eyed mugdha nayikas (inexperienced heroines) even fanciful thinking can award extreme ananda. Thus Mukunda enters his fathers house to merge into the amrita jalanidhi (nectar-ocean) of his parents vatsalya affection. Yet meanwhile, the sun plunges into the salty ocean to attain Krishna in another birth (after the next sunrise). In other words, just as yogis perform severe tapasya by throwing themselves into the ocean to attain their desired siddhithe sun sacrifices its own body, hoping to regain Krishnas sangamrita! Hence the suns Krishnanuraga is praiseworthy. 2-3 Vrajeshwari Yashoda laces Kanai and Balai upon the snana vedi. Then after calling the household servants to look after their bathing, she addresses Dhanishtha: Hey Putri*! Quickly go to Radha and bring those delicious tarts and laddus that she made. When my two sons eat them theyll become ciran-jiva (long-lived)! Krishnas bathing room is in Nanda Bhavanas south-eastern corner (beside his bedroom). A jeweled snana vedi is there, and the servants have surrounded it with many lotas with camphorscented water, mixed with flower petals. (According to the season it is warm or cold) Above the snana vedi rests a small, golden piri studded with gems (where Krishna sits during his bath). Nearby, Krishnas fine white snana vastra, towels, scented oils, perfumes and change of dress are all kept by the servants who eagerly stand ready to bathe him according to Ma Yashodas direction. Because Jatila often receives charity from Yashoda, she always allow Radha to prepare sweets for Krishnas sayahna bhojan. 1. Dhanishtha arrives at Javat 4-5 Following Vrajeshwaris order, Dhanishtha enters Radhikas sakhi-assembly. But Srimati has already been waiting to send the sweets. Meanwhile, Vrindas duti named Malati arrives. She informs Radhika that tonights sanketa will be Govinda sthali. Every night Radha Krishnas pastimes begin at a new meeting place called the sanketa kunja. Vrinda is very busy preparing for tonights lilas, so he sends her assistant Malati to inform Radha where to come. Govinda Sthali is an island in the Yamuna where the Yogapith mandir is situated. 6-8 Radhika places her laddus and other sweets in fresh clay pots and seals each one with a cloth. Then they are carefully placed in a wooden basket and covered with another cloth. Tulasi and Kasturi are entrusted to deliver the basket. But as kasturi and Dhanishtha start for Nandalaya, Radhika places a tambul vitika in Tulasis hand telling her to inform Krishna about tonights sanketa.

Radkikas tambul vitika (pan) is called naga-valli. It is rolled in a special golden pan leaf and filled with a selection of betel nuts and spices that only Radhika knows. Tulasi Manjari is a leading duti within Radhas sakhi varga. As she was indispensable in arranging Radha Krishnas madhyahna milan, now Radhika sends her to arrange for tonights yugala milan too. 1. Tulasi relates Krishnas Activities Krishna-bhavanamritas version tells that Tulasi is just returning from Nanda bhavan. She was collecting Krishnas news to save Radha from her distress. That narration runs as follows : Radhas viraha-fever could not be relieved by laying her on a bed of wet leaves, by anointing her body with chandan and camphor, or by smothering her in lotus petals. But then a sakhi appears from Nandishwar, and receiving Lalitas cue, she begins sprinkling Radha with the piyusha vrishti (nectar Rain) of Krishnas news! Thus Radhas consciousness instantly returns! She rises and exclaims, Oh sakhi! Today my desert like ears are blessed! Aha! Youve cooled them to give me great happiness! Lalita says, Hey Radhe! Tulasi Manjari just arrived from Goshtheshwaris abode. She has gently poured Vraja-nagara-varas kathamrita into your earsthis is what saved you! Radhika answers, Oh sakhi Tulasi! As youve brought me back to lifeplease go on speaking about my Prana-priyatama! Thus Tulasi begins addressing Srimati and her sakhi assembly: O Radhe! As Vraja Raja Nanda stood beneath the gopuram (the archway above Nanda bhavans front entrance) and suddenly saw Krishna coming, he stretched out his arms to embrace him! And as he took Krishna into his lap, his body erupted in goosebumpshe was totally stunned! Seeing that sight, one might have guessed: Aho! Has a lovely nila kamala sprouted from a serene lake beneath Mount Kailasa? Krishna was buried within his fathers chest, and by moving his hand and shifting Krishnas turban, Vrajapati lovingly smelt his sons head. Tulasi goes on: O Radhe! Tears trickled from Nandas eyes onto your Prana-nathas Krishna is dearer to Nanda than his very life! But when Vraja Raja placed his cheek beside Krishnas, another beautiful scene unfolded: Someone could have said, Oh, is an autumn-cloud embracing the moon for relief from the suns scorching heat? Hey Radhe! Tulasi continues, Being anxious for Krishnas return, Vrajeshwari was jaunting from the house to the veranda, and back again, many times. And while imagining that some calamity had happened, her face was shriveling! Thus the days last portion became intolerable for her. But when Kane appeared, suddenly two streams flowed from her eyes and from her breasts-like tributaries of the Yamuna and the Ganga! Aho! Being stunned, Yashoda couldnt speak, nor could she see Kane due to her tears! Then Rohini lifted Kana onto his mothers lap and began to perform arati. Hey Radhe! When I saw Yashoda hugging Krishna, I thought: Has the moon risen from an amrita sagara of vatsalya affection? Or is the prema manikya raja resting within its own jewel mine? Or perhaps the creator has extracted the amrita of vatsalya prema, colored it shyama with kasturi, molded it into a beautiful doll, and then placed it as a jewel offering within Mother Yashodas lap? As Vraja-chandra saw his motionless mother, his affection for her awakened. Oh Janani*! Krishna

said, Why are you simply crying without noticing me? Here I am, sitting in your lap! Thus Kana wiped his mothers tears, giving her paramananda! As Yashoda began fondling Krishna, her breast milk washed the dust from his body. Thus Vatsalya Lakshmis waves of bliss were unceasing! And with her senses restored, she began to clean Krishnas body with her lotuslike hand. She also engaged her dasis in rubbing his body with oil and bathing him. Then Mother Yashoda affectionately addressed Krishna: Hey vatsa(child)! Hey Svaccha Pranaya(pure love)! When you leave to herb the cows I become aggrieved, so hey Chandra-mukha! Your mercy for me still hasnt awoken in you! Oh Tata (lad)! Hey Svakula Kamala (lotus of our family)! Not once have you taken your poor mother along with you into the forest! And Hey Karuna Hridaya (soft hearted one)! Even when the long day ends and when your father calls, you neglect to come. Forsaking food, drink and homely comforts you play unceasingly with your friends! So my efforts to stay alive are failing! Hearing Nandranis pathetic words, Madhumangal replied: Oh Mother! My over zealous friend is always busy playing with his balali (friends, also meaning girl friends). So how can he remember you? And amongst his friends, only I am sober. Hey janani! If I hadnt restricted him, hed still be out there! Vrajeshwari replied: Oh child Bato! Youre right, and every day scratch-marks appear on his body! Although I restrict his balalithey dont take heed! Krishnas body is softer than a nila nalina (blue lotus), yet still they insist on arm wrestlingand hence, they lacerate him. Hay, hay! What can I do? Cant we protect him somehow? Thus Tulasi concludes: O sakhi Radhe! While I was listening to this conversation, Vrajeshwari asked me to rub Krishnas body with oil for his bath. Then she went to cook in the kitchen; after a while Paurnamasi, Kilimba, Mukhara and Gargi arrived to fondle Kane. Because Mother Yashoda still feeds Kana her breast milk, she is unaware of his attraction for the gopis. Thus it isnt surprising that she innocently engages her dasis (or sometimes even the manjaris) in Krishnas intimate anga seva. In Sankalpa-kalpa-druma. Sri Vishwanath Chakravartipada (Vinoda Vallari Manjari) eagerly desires to take advantage of Yashodas naivete as follows: Hey Vraja Devi Radhike! Krishnas return from the forest dips Yashomati in a wave of pleasure! Thus tears and milk will stream from her eyes and breasts to saturate her son! Then for Krishnas bath she will engage her household dasisand even ask me to help! Thus I shall ecstatically thank Vrajeshavri within my mind. Krishna-bhavanamritas previous narration happens on a different day because Tulasi has just returned from Nandalaya. But in Govinda-llmtas version Tulasi just left. 1. 9 When Dhanishtha, Tulasi and Kasturi arrive, delivering Radhikas sweets, Ma Yashoda takes the sweets out of the box and places them in different serving containers. Upon seeing each confection, Vrajeshwari expresses delight, and then she asks Tulasi and Kasturi to help sort them in golden bowls. 10 Yashoda adds some preparations that were made in her home. Then she calls for the brahmin

kumara pujaris to offer the bhoga to the deity of Lord Narayan. Nanda Maharaj engages attractive, young brahmin boys to look after his griha devata, Sri Narayan. Madhumangal is in charge of seva puja. Krishnas Snana and Sringara 11-12 Nandaranis servants moisten Rama and Krishnas bodies with water, massage them with oil and scented powder called udvartana. Next they are bathed and dressed in new cloths. Then the servants comb their hair, put on their tilak, rub kunkum, aguru and other fragrances onto their bodies, offer garlands and put on their ornaments. After the shringar, Krishna, Balaram and Madhumangal sit down to a light meal. Krishnas servants eagerly take charge. Saranga puts on his white snana vastra. Sugandha, Subandha and Karpura rub his body with scented Narayan oil, remove it with udvartana and rub amalaki oil into his hair. Then Kana is bathed with golden lotas filled with scented rose-water by Payoda and Varida; Raktaka and Patraka dry him afterwards with soft towels. Krishnas pitambara dhoti and chador are put on by Gangeya. Then the duties of combing his hair and putting on tilak are performed by other servants who also bathe, dress and decorate Balaram and Batu. 13-15 When Krishna, Balaram, Batu and the other sakhas are seated, Ma Yashoda serves coconut pulp, sharbats (fruit-drinks), rasala and sliced fruits. Then she offers Radhikas sweets such as piyusha granthi, karpura, keli, amrita keli and laddus. At the end pushpanna is served. During bhojan everyone laughs with Madhus joking! Then Krishna and other wash their mouths and go to take a brief nap. 1. Batus Joking Sri Govinda-lilamrita commentator, Sri Krishna Pada Dasa Baba, elucidates on Batus meal-time humor with the following anubhava. Batu says, Hey Janani (mother)! For those who smell the aroma of these splendid tarts, promotion to heaven, or the attainment of mukti becomes meaningless! And mother, damn the creator, for he failed to make my stomach limitless; and those who say dio na (dont give more)! At meal time, I consider great aparadhis! Then Batu chides: Oho, Krishna! Your bad habit of stealing and eating outside cooking hasnt ended! Dont you like the dishes provided in your home? Why are you neglecting your mothers pushpanna? Your appetite simply goes to the amrita keli, karpura keli and laddus that come from others homes! And Ive even caught you stealing from my plate! All right; if you want to stuff yourself like this Ill just have to eat your share of rasala, sweet rice and mangoes! Next Batu tells Balaram: Oh Dada (elder brother)! Why are you eating so fast? You should slowly chew your food. Dont you know? Those who only gulp never have children they lay eggs! Thus Madhus nigudha parihasa (intimate jokes) with Kane and keli parihasa (funny joking) with the sakhas enlivens the meal-time atmosphere.

1. 16-17 While Kane rests, the servants massage him and fan him with chamaras. Then Krishna and his friends leave for the goshala to milk the cows. Krishnas bhukta shesha (prasad remnants) are gathered by Dhanishtha. She privately sends them to Radhika through her assistant, Gunamala. : Tulasi and Kasturi remain at Nanda bhavan. After Krishnas second bhojan with his family, they will return to Radharani with more news, plus more prasad. In sankalpa kalpadruma, Sri Vishwanath Chakravartipada prays for a chance to serve like Gunamala: Hey Radhika Devi! Ill bring the medicine to cure your evening fever Krishnas prasad, plus his evening snana and bhojan katha! This will cool your eyes, tongue and heart! 18 Radhika enjoys Krishnas bhukta-shesha with the sakhis. Then she goes up to the Chandra-shala to view Krishnas go-dohana lila in paramananda! Radha doesnt eat anything except Krishnas bhuktashesha. Thus she is called krishnavasheshashana in Sri Rupas mula sutra. Yet Radha equally enjoys feeding her sakhis Krishnas prasad with her own hand. It is now dark outside, and Javat is a long way from Nandagram. But still Radha can clearly see Krishna at the goshala. Such miracles are possible by Yogamayas special potency. Krishna-bhavanamrita describes how Radha comes to Pavana sarovar at this time (under the pretext of taking a bath). Then entering a nearby flower garden, she ascends to the top of a high turret above a jeweled palace. From here Radha and sakhis enjoy the darshan of Krishnas cow-milking activities. And as Radhas Cakori-eyes drink the moonbeams of Krishnas chandra vadana she begins describing his stunning madhurya: Hey sakhi! Look, this nava nagaras alakavali (fine hairs curling over his forehead) are covered by a turban with gold tassles and pearls hanging from it. So it appears that as a dark cloud tries to cover the moon a lightning-strung star-cluster devours the cloud! Radhika goes on: Hey sakhi! Those shiny Mamkara-kundalas (dolphin like earrings) destroy the gopis pride of their chastity! But are they really earrings? I cant tell. Na, na! Since theyre unable to appear before Krishnas moon-face, they must be two taruni ramanis who constantly dance in hopes of alluring his priti. Hey prana sakhi! This Nagars shifty glances rest above those makarayugala, and theyre like sharp arrows that pierce our hearts! But while they do so the mad, drunken bees swarming to his flower-crown are flicked aside! Hence Kandarpa quickly surmises: Uh-oh, wont the bees steady drone chase away my makara-asana? Id better securely fasten them to Krishnas ears! Oh sakhi, , Radhika says, Just observe another wonder! Although Krishnas eyes are pure and cooling, they have two sundari ramani pupils named Tara who are drunken and restless. Tara gives birth to the sons of Krishnas lurking glances named Kataksha. Unfortunately, since Tara is corrupt so are her sons! Hence theyve taken to stealing all of the Vraja sundaris patience! O sakhi, just look more carefully! This Nagaras glances are like Kandarpas river which has tributaries streaming in every direction. But Taras blue sapphire boat sails over them, carrying the pirates of eagerness, bliss, attachment and intoxication. Aho! She loots the entire cargo from the rich-

merchant-vessel-eyes of the Vraja tarunis! Hey prana-priya sakhi! Aha! Thats not a soft smile fixed to my Mohana Nagaras lips, nor does sweet pollen ooze from those Bandhuka flower lips which entrap all of the worlds alis (bees, or attractive women). But hay! Those newly blossomed leaf-leaps are Kandarpas warheads which spray camphor over my eyes! As Vrishabhanu-nandini thus describes Krishnas moon-face, she faints within a milk-ocean of bliss, so Vishakha tries to revive her: Hey Priya sakhi! Now is not the time to lose yourself within a sukha sagara! Just watch Krishnas go-dohana lila this will make your shashuris harsh curses seem like amrita! 1. A Naimittika Lila (Occasional Pastime) 19 Sometimes, in the summer, Krishna tells his mother: Hey Ma! Today let us take our bath in the Yamuna or Pavana Sarovar! After granting the request, Yashomati sends her servants who eagerly tag behind, carrying Krishnas snana paraphernalia, change of dress, ornaments and a snack. In the summer the daylight extends into the Sayahna period. Feeling exhausted from cowherding in the sun then, Kane begs his mother to let him go swimming with the sakhas. But Krishnas plea is prompted by a deeper motivehis desire to meet Radha. 20-22 After Yamuna jala keli (or sporting in the sarovar) with his friends, Krishna is dressed and decorated. He enjoys a picnic on the spot and takes a nap. Then he heads for the goshala to milk the cows. Radha and her sakhis also bathe in the Yamuna when Krishna doesand as the water touches him and flows to touch Radha, she feels joy. After bathing, Radha privately sends sweets to Krishna through Kundalata; and when Kundalata comes back, Radha enjoys Krishnas prasad remnants. While Radha and Krishna return to their respective homes, their exchange of loving glances continues unabated! Radhas sucatura sakhis always know what Krishna is up to. Thus when he goes to the Yamuna, Radha takes Jatilas permission and goes to bathe at a nearby ghat. 23 As Krishna heads home, his servants carry his lota, pan-cannister, chamara, cow herding stick and the chandan ropes for binding the cows. Concerning Krishnas lila at the sarovar, Srila Chakravartipada prays to assist as follows: Hey Radhe! When you bathe at Pavana Sarovar, Kana will come to another ghat with his sakhas and tell them: Hey, lets play a game to see who can remain under-water the longest Ill dive first! Then Krishna will take a deep breath, dive under, swim all the way across the lake, embrace you and return to surface where he started! Although Jatila and Kutila are present, besides Balaram and

the other sakhas, no one will perceive what happened. But then I will go with a few sakhis to inform Lalita about Krishnas craftiness! (Sankalpa-kalpa-druma) In Krishna-bhavanamrita, Radha doesnt leave yet. After bathing in Pavana Sarovar, she ascends to the balabhi-shikhara (turret) above the palace in nearby kusuma kanana. There, after watching Krishnas go dohana lila, she returns to Javat. 1. Krishnas Go-dohana lila 24-30 Back at the goshala, Nanda Maharaj sits on his cushioned seat beside all of the milk flasks. He is directing the servants and the gopas in their duties; but Nandas eyes are fixed on the path from where Krishna will come. The dhenus moo to their mooing hungry calves, their ears perk, and they are hardly able to move because their heavy udders are so full that streams of milk wet the ground behind them. Some of the dhenus have been milked, others are being milked, and some of them are still waiting. The gopas call each dhenu and their calf by name, uttering hi, hi! Then, as they are milked, bucket after bucket of milk flows from each one of them. Yet their eyes look down the road for Krishnas arrival. The servants watch for Krishna too; they carry the full milk containers to the house and return the empty flasks to Gopa Raja Nanda. The lusty bulls grunting noise echo through the sky as they repeatedly breaks the earth with their hooves, or horns, while fighting over the ritu-mati cows. Krishna feels great pleasure seeing the calves playfully bouting head to head. Then talking Nandas permission, Krishna goes to milk the dhenus. They all surround him in elation, so Kane strokes their backs to pacify them. Krishnahnika-kaumudi describes Govindas entering the goshala as follows: Krishnas serene composure outmatches a million moons, and his friend are talking about his auspicious qualities. Kane rests his left arm on a priya sakhas shoulder and with his right he accepts a luscious tambul vitika to begin chewing. Thus Gopendra- nandana enters the goshala, wearing jeweled slippers. 31 When scratching behind the dhenus ears and caressing them, Krishna allows their calves to drink their milk. Then he lovingly milk some of the dhenus, while the sakhas milk the others. Krishna-bhavanamritas previous meditation continues: Back at the vallabhi-sikhara, Vishakha consoles Radharani: Hey sakhi! Nows not the time to lose yourself in a blissful coma! Just look! Kane is calling his priya dhenus like Dhavali and Shabaliand theyre loudly mooing and running towards him! As Krishna scratches and fondles them, tears roll from their eyes. Oh priya sakhi, just

watch him! While bending over, Krishnas turban tilts against the dhenus side. His feet rest firmly in front, and he holds a jeweled bucket between his legs that reflects his moon-face! Then Kane performs Dharani-puja (worship of the earth) by wetting the ground with two or three squirts from the udder. Then with a few squirts more He sets the dhenus under. With his two pani-padma (lotus hands) Krishna begins pulling the dhenus teats-and the milk splurts into the pail making a shana shana, ghashma ghashma- sound. But as he pulls up and down milk splurts over his knees and thighs too. 32-35 When the milking stops, the calves such their mothers teats to their full satisfaction. And then, its surprising, but the dhenus udders remain full as before! The dhenu look at Krishnas mukharavinda with unblinking eyes. Yet, due to affection, milk still flow from their udders, so the sakhas place pails under them, which soon overflow. Then the sakhas take the full buckets before Vraja-pati Nanda. Krishna and Balaram escort the calves with their fondling mothers to their respective stalls. They return to their father. But Vraja Raja is busy directing the servants; he is sending some of them back to the house with the remaining milk, the others are asked to watch the goshala. Then Nanda goes to the house with Krishna Balaram and their friends. Krishna-bhavanamrita describes another day, when Krishna goes to meet Srimati Radharani at the vallabhi-shikhara now. 36 Before entering the houseNanda, Krishna, Balaram and the gopas all wash their feet. Then they go to the mandir for darshan of Sri Narayans sandhya arati. During sandhya arati Nanda Raja regularly takes darshan with bhakti, along with his family members and friends. Although Krishna and Balarama stand before Narayan with folded hands, they are smiling. Sometime Madhumangal performs the arati. The Gutika tells that Krishna sneaks away during Lord Narayans arati to meet with Radha above the chandra-shala (at Javat). And after Krishna enjoys vilasa with Radha, the sakhis perform Yugala Arati. Then Radha returns to her room, and Krishna quickly sneaks back to Nandishwar before arati ceremony ends. Lalita then directs the manjaris in different sandhya sevas such as cleaning Radhas room, or lighting lamp and incense. Some of the dasis go with Ananga Manjari to learn singing and dancing. 37-38 After the arati, Vrajeshwari Yashoda comes to offer Narayans prasad to Nanda and all of the guests. This includes a variety of fruit-shaped sweets (cooked in ghee and sugar-water), flowers, garlands, scents and tambul vitika. Srimati Nandarani escorts everyone to a nearby living room and places the tray of Narayans assorted prasadi items in Nanda Maharajs hand. Then he distributes them to his friends and relatives.

39 Nanda mingles with the guests for a while, but when its time to leave, no one can take their eyes off Krishna! Hence they offer mind and senses to him. Nanda Baba speaks Bhagavata-katha with his guests every day at this time. Yet Krishna steals everyones attention as he silently sits beside him. Thus no one wants to leave when Nanda finishes speakingthey fix their mind and senses on Krishna and return to their dutys call. 40 Vraja Raja always invites Krishnas cousins like Subhadra to dinner; and sometimes he invites his brothers too. Rasa-tarangini Tika: Krishnas cousins are: 1) Upanandas son, Subhadra 2) Abhinandas son, Kundala 3) Sanandas son, Dandi 4) Nandanas son, Mandala These four boys always enjoy supper with Krishna; their fathers come on alternative days. 41 But today Nanda Raja invites everyone. Thus he sends a brahmin boy to give Yashoda the news (for getting ready). Then Yashoda sends another brahmin-boy to invite her sisters-in-law Tungi, Pibari, Kuvala and Atula, along with their sons, wives and daughters. Vrajeshwari next calls all of the gopa-kumaras (Krishnas friends) to come. Thus they arrive, wash their feet and their seats, keeping Vraja Raja Nandda in the center. Krishnahnika-kaumudi mentions that previously Yashoda had engaged her servants and maidservants to nicely decorate the bhojan area, arrange the jeweled asana and set up the golden plates and glasses. 44-45 The seating is arranged as follows: Nandas older brothers (Upananda and Abhinanda) sit on his right, and his younger brothers (Sananda and Nandana) sit on his left. Krishna and Balaram sit facing them. Krishnas cousins sit on his left, and the brahmama boys sit on Balarams right. Subhadras mother, Tungi, is proficient in etiquette and serving. Thus on Yashodas request, she and Rohini begin serving first the brahmins then their husbands, then Subhadra, Baladeva, Krishna and the others. Lokacharana (custom) and maryada (seniority) determine who is served first. Although Krishna is svayam bhagavan he must turn nearly everyone is served before him. This is a nara lila. 46 Tungi brings the warm, sweet-smelling rice that is saturated in golden ghee. Placed alongside there are golden trays carrying assorted fried items and dry vegetable preparations (the appentisers). The trays are placed before everyone on a wooden stand having three legs.

One might wonder: How is Sri Krishna Das Kaviraj able to describe this scene with such detail? From the last chapter we remember that Radhika sent Tulasi and Kasturi to Nanda Bhavana with her sweets. Thus Kasturi (Srila Krishna Das Kaviraj Goswami charana) is still there and is directly watching this lila unfold. 47-51 After everyone begins eating, tungi, Rohini and Yashoda expertly serve the various bitter, pungent, spicy, salty, sour and sweet preparations in their respective order. Amongst these items are soft rotis, payasa (sweet rice), special bataka (tarts), pishtaka (cakes) and sanjava. Ma Yashoda knows about everyones appetite and preference. Thus she nods to Rohini again and again, indicating her to serve everyone their favorite dishes. Vraja-rani (Yashoda) personally serves thick milk, shikharini, mango juice and acara (pickles) made from assorted fruits. Although they are before Nanda and the guest, Yashoda, Tungi and Rohini cannot conceal their motherly concern to feed their sons well. So they melt with affections as tears come to their eyes! But then Nanda and his brothers notice their behavior and repeatedly coax their sons to eat more. Thus as Krishna and the other boys do so, their mothers become very happy. Unlike the morning, the atmosphere at the evening-bhojan is grave. Before Madhumanggala would tell jokes and Yashoda showed great eagerness, but that is not possible now because Nanda and his relatives are present. What has changed this time? In the morning Radharani was there to incite Krishnas dhira lalita nature. Madhumangal would joke and steal from Krishnas plate, and Krishna could even get away with throwing prasad at a priya sakha sitting across the table! Mother Yashoda would also place her hand on her head to swear, hoping to make Krishna eat more. Although the scene is more reserved now, still Madhu does tell one light-hearted joke. He says, The power to make someone unlimited doesnt rest with the Creator. Otherwise Id certainly perform tapasya to have a limitless stomach. I could enjoy this wonderful meal to full satisfaction. But hay, what can I do? My belly is full so to stop eating brings tears to my eyes! 52-54 Although Krishnas skirmishes with the sakhas arent possible, and although Yashoda is unable to fondle her son, still the sandhya bhojan is a million times more pleasureful (to Krishnas parents) because entire family can enjoy Krishna seated within their midst! Krishnas su-madhura smile, the nectar-droplets of his speech, his bodily aroma that mixes with the incense as the boys fan him with palm leaves, and his charming, playful disposition while sitting amongst his cousinsall delight the five senses of Nanda, Yashoda and the others! After eating, drinking and washing their mouths, Nandas brothers rest on luxurious bedsteads in separate rooms. Nanda rests with some of the guests on a spacious vedi in the living-room, and Kane goes upstairs to take rest. Meanwhile, the servants assist by fanning and supplying everyone firstclass pan.

Govinda-lilamrita is not to be read like a novel. It is for raganuga sadhakas who place themselves in each scene to perform manasi seva. If one were a manjari, and if Srimati or Lalita had sent her to Nandalaya for relaying a message to Krishna, now that opportune moment has arrived. Yashoda and the other ladies are talking supper, Nanda Baba and the men are busy taking rest, and Krishna has gone upstairs. He will be nearly alone; only a few priya narma sakhas are there along with some servants. Thus the sadhaka manjari thinks, If Rasikendra sees me, he will certainly surmise that Im Srimatis duti carrying an important message. Then Krishna will endeavor to privately talk to me. With such confidence the consummate sadhaka meditates on serving within the lila. So it is not surprising that rasika bhakta cudamani Srila Vishwanath Chakravarti has already depicted this scene and has hankered for this seva in Sankalpa-kalpa-druma: Hey devi Radhike! After Kane finishes his evening meal and after he is put to rest by Mother Yashoda I will arrive there. Then I shall privately tell Krishna about your intense condition. I will also hear from him where the sanketa kunja will be (where you can meet him). Thus returning, Ill inform you about Krishnas anxiousness. 1. 55 Meanwhile, from Javats chandra-shala, Cakori-locana Radhika and her sakhis drink the wonderful moonbeams of the Krishna-moon rising over the mountain of Nandishwar! Aho! The ancient sages are rightan exalted womans desires always bear fruit. As a cooling shyamala effulgence radiates from Nandishwars peak (like a bright beacon), Radhika surmises that the full moon of her good fortune is rising! So placing her Cakori-eyes on Krishnas moon-face satiates her desires! Thus again and again her heart rejoices while she views Krishna! As krishna kanta shiromani (the Foremost gem amongst Krishnas consorts), Radhika is automatically parama saubhagyavati (the most fortunate). Thus her desires are never thwarted. 56 Similarly, Krishnas thirsty bee-eyes ecstatically fly to Javat to drink the makaranda (nectar-pollen) of Radhikas vadana kamala (lotus-face)! After all, doesnt the utkantha (hankering) of a great man always bear wonderful results? Yogamayas lila-shakti is amazing, for no one can understand when and how things are taking place. Thus even the impossible becomes possible, so that Premamaya and Premamayis mutual darshan can continue unabated! As Radha and Kane always attain each other because of their overriding determination so will their bhaktas attain their nitya seva for their deep hankering. Here, purity of desire and utkantha (deep hankering) are said to be the means for sure success in reaching the goal. 57-60 Yashoda Rani then requests Dhanishtha to serve Tulasi and Kasturi dinner. But seeing their hesitation, Dhanishtha informs: Oh Vrajeshwari Mata! What to speak of eating, these two wont even touch water before Radha has partaken.

Pleased to hear about their affectionate vow, Yashomati lovingly replies, Well then, Dhanishthike! Gather large quantities of rice and sabji so that Tulasi and Kasturi can take them to Radha and her sakhis. Then Dhanishtha secretly mixes Krishnas bhuktavashesha (maha prasad remnants) with the huge quality of delicious food that Rohini Devi supplies. After carefully arranging everything in a large basket, Dhanishtha gives it to Tulasi. Yashoda calls all of the servants and maidservants and feeds them. Then she sits down with her sister-in-law, along with their sons and daughters, to eat. Ma Yashoda has great affection for her household staff members. She knows that without their extensive assistance she would be helpless in properly caring for Kane. Thus seeing their toil, she lovingly desires to feed with her own hands. 61 After Tulasi and Kasturi leave, Dhanishtha privately gives Subala Radhas tambul vitika and informs him about the sanketa kunja. Dhanishtha requests Subala to give Krishna the pan and to inform him that tonights meeting place is Govinda Sthali. 62-63 When Tulasi (and Kasturi) arrive back in Radhas assembly, they show her the prasad. The noses of everyone who smells it and the eyes of everyone who sees its delicacy become jubilant! Then Rupa Manjari removes the prasad from the basket and places it on separate plates for Radha and the sakhis. Rupa takes prasad to Radhas bhojan mandir and prepares a special plate for her; she also arranges separate portions for the sakhis. 64 Meanwhile, Jatila calls: Oh Vishakhe! Abhimanyu, has eaten and gone to take rest at the go-shala. You can call Radha to take her meal now. Radha mayika svami (so called husband), Abhimanyu, was born impotent by Yogamayas arrangement. Thus, to conceal this embarrassing matter from Radha, he makes a show of dhenu bhakti and sleeps at the go-shala. As Abhimanyu has eaten and left for there, Jatila now calls Radha for taking his remnants. Because Jatila is proud of her caste and because she considers herself more dignified than Radha, she never enters Radhas separate living quarters that her father built. Instead, she calls up to the second floor, where Radha stays, from outside. 65 Vishakha replies, Oh Arye (saintly one)! Your putra-vadhu* has fallen asleep from exerting herself in the forest. So please give me the prasad; Ill serve it to her later. Vishakha Sundari is quick-witted, so to side-step this predicament is a simple matter for her. Right

away she answers Jatila with a reversed, grave voice, conveying sympathy for her concern: Oh Arye, our Raja-nandini has fallen asleep from her exertion ... Because Abhimanyu often comes home late, and therefore takes his meal late, Jatila is in the habit of sending his prasad to Radhas room. Hence Vishakhas request isnt unusual. 66-67 Vishakha is smirking as she puts Abhimanyus remnants in a corner of the bhojan mandir. She joyfully smiles and tells Radha how Jatilas request was avoided. Then Rai Rangini comes and sits down at the bhojan vedi with her sakhis; she is eager to relish Krishnas adharamrita, and begins partaking as a female swan consumes nectar. The jeweled bhojan vedi is covered with a beautiful silken cloth and ratna piris (low jeweled seats) for everyone. In front of each piri are golden glasses filled with rose-water. Female swans love to eat the lotus-pod remnants of their husbands. Similarly, kanaka hamsini Rai becomes overjoyed to relish her Prana-naths bhuktavashesha. 68-69 Lalita and Vishakha sit on Rais right and left. The other sakhis (Chitra, Champakalata, Rangadevi, Indulekha and Tungavidya) sit beside and in front of her in a half-moon circle. Rupa Manjari and Tulasi affectionately serve the prasadjust as Mohini served nectar to the devatas. When the devatas and asuras churned the milk-ocean, amrita surfaced. Thus a raging dispute ensued as to who will be privileged to drink it! Then Vishnu took the form of Mohini-avatara to subjugate the asuras and to serve the devatas the divine elixir (which makes one immortal). Similarly, Rupa and Tulasi, knowing Krishnas maha prasad to be even more potent, lovingly serve Radha and her intimate sakhis. 70-71 The prasad, although not a large quantity, increases when served. The reason is that Krishna touched it with his hand, and chewed it with his mouth. Moreover, it is now served by loving attendants and directly relished by Radhika Devi. Therefore, why should its expanding quality be not so astonishing? Just as female swans enjoy the lotus-stems left by their husbands, the doe enjoy the soft new grasses, the female bee enjoy the flowers madhu and the Cakoris enjoy the moonbeams Radhika-sundari experiences an even greater relish honoring her Priya-ramanas bhuktavashesha. The proof is her romancha (horipilation)! 72 After bhojan, the manjaris hold a golden dabara (bowl) for Srimatis washing, and they offer Krishnas carvita tambul (chewed pan). The Radhika takes rest while the sakhis go to rest on separate beds. The manjaris assist with the needful seva. The manjaris seva is as follows: Mukha mocha (washing Srimatis face with a warm towel), palanka parishkarana (arranging her bed), chamara vyajana (chamara fanning),

pada samvahana (foot massaging), atara pradana (offering fragrant scents) and visrasta veshera samadhana (straightening Srimatis ruffled clothes). 73 Tulasi and Rupa collect a portion of Radhas bhuktavashesha and happily send it to Vrinda through her duti Malati. Next Rupa and Tulasi take charge of serving Radhas other sakhis and manjaris. Then they sit down to enjoy the maha prasad (Krishnas bhuktavashesha that Radha enjoyed). The other sakhis mentioned here are the priya sakhis (the sixty four gopis that assist the parama preshtha sakhis); their names are as follows: 1) Serving under Lalita are: Ranga-prabha, Rati-kala, Subhadra, Bhadra-rekhika, Sumukhi, Dhanishtha, Kalahamsi and Kalapini. 2) Serving under Vishakha are: Madhavi, Malati, Chandra-rekha, Kunjari, Harini, Capalakshi, Surabhi and Shubhanana. 3) Serving under Chitra are: Rasalika, Tilakini, Shaurseni, Sugandhi, Vamani, Vama Nayana, Nagari and Nagavallika. 4) Serving under Indulekha are: Tungabhadra, Rasatunga, Rangavatika, Mangala, Ciralekha, Suvicitrangi, Modini, Madana. 5) Serving under Champakalata are: Kurangakshi, Suracita, Mandali, Mani-mandana, Chandika, Chandralatika, Kandukakshi and Sumandir. 6) Serving under Rangadevi are: Kalakanthi, Shashikala, Kamala, Madhura, Kandarpa-sundari, Kamalatika, Madhavi and Prema Manjari. 7) Serving under Tungavidya are: Manjumedha, Sumadhura, Sumadhya, Madhurekshana, Tanumadhya, Madhusyanda, Gunacuda and Varangada. 8 ) Serving under Sudevi are: Kaveri, Caru-kavari, Sukeshi, Manjukeshika, Harahira, Harakanthi, Haravalli and Manohara. In Gaura lila these priya sakhis become Sriman Mahaprabhus renowned caushathi mahantas. 75 During the manjaris bhojan a playful skirmish breaks out as they place the most dear and favorable on each others plates! Rupa Manjari tries to serve Tulasi the best items (she is unwilling to accept the best for herself), and Tulasi tries to make Rupa accept the same. Thus they tussle back and forth! The leading manjaris (such as Rupa and Tulasi) also seat their subordinate dasis and enjoy dining with them. 76 After bhojan and performing achaman, Rupa and Tulasi return to Praneshwaris lotus feet to serve. Then Srimati affectionately offers them her carvita tambul. The Gutika concludes the Sayahna lila as follows: At last the guru manjari takes her prasad followed by the sadhaka dasi. Then the sadhaka dasi clean the bhojan area, washes the plates and utensils and replaces them where they are kept. Returning to Radha, she accepts a portion of Radhas carvita tambul from her guru manjari, and by her instruction, she massages Radhas feet.

When Radha falls asleep, the sakhis and manjaris return to their resting areas. The sadhaka manjari then massages her guru devis charana kamala and takes rest. 77-78 All glories to the moonbeams of Sri Gokula Chandras sayahna pastimes! They melt the Vrajavasis moonstone hearts, increase the swelling in their ocean of bliss and cause their blue lotus eyes to bloom! As a result of Rupa Goswamis mature seva around by drinking the madhu at Sri Chaitanya devas lotus feet, the request of Sri Raghunath Dasa, the association of Sri Jiva, and the benediction of Sri Raghunath Bhatta, Sri Govinda-lilamritas Twentieth chapter ends. 1. In the Sayahna period, Radha and Krishnas Sandhya aratis both take place. Although they are not mentioned in the ashta-kala lila texts (except the Gutika), traditionally to perform, to take part in, to watch or to meditate upon them has become a daily part of Gaudiya Vaishnava sadhana. The Gutikas sandhya Yugala arati at Javat (see page 80) is very sweet, but also very rare. Generally Gaudiya Vaishnava follow Madana Gopalas Sandhya Arati (attributed to Srila Raghunath Dasa Goswami), and Radharanis Sandhya Arati (by Manohara Dasa). The reason for there being two aratis, instead of one, is that Radha and Krishna are separate now; Radha is at Javat and Krishna is at Nandagram. Mother Yashoda first perform Madana Gopalas arati (which Radha views from Javat) and then Lalita performs Radhas arati. The two arati padas are as follows: Sri Madana Gopalas Sandhya Arati harata sakala, santapa janamo ko mitato talapa jama kala ki Arati kiye jaya jaya zri madana gopAla ki go-grita racita, karpuraka bati jhalakto kaGchana tAla ki chandra koti koti, bhanu koti chabi mukha shobha nanda dulAla ki charana kamala pore, nUpura bAje ure dole vaijayanti mAla ki mayura mukuta, pItAmbara sohe bajato venu rasAla ki sundar lola, kapolani kiye chabi nirakhato madana gopAla ki sura nara munigana, heratai Arati bhakata vatsala pratipla ki bAje ghaNTA tAla, mridaGga jhaJjhari aJjali kusuma gulAla ki hu hu boli boli, raghunath dAsa gosvami mohana gokula lAla ki shubha Arati kiye jaya jaya madana gopAla ki

Glories to Madana Gopalas auspicious arati which takes away the peoples suffering and frees them from the cycle of birth and death. Mother Yashoda places many dazzling camphor-ghee lamps on a golden tray (and offers them to Gopala in sweeping circular motions). Sri Nanda-lalas face is cooling like millions of moons, yet is more radiant than a million suns! Madhura nupura (anklebells) sweetly jingle from his charana kamala and a Vaijayanti mala tosses from his neck. He wears a crown crested with peacock feathers and a pitambara dhoti and he plays his rasala mohana venu. Madana Gopalajis cheeks are glossy and ever-effugent! The devatas, the pious and the munis can all see the arati because he is the maintainer of his bhaktas and bhakta vatsala. The bells chime and the mridanga and jhanjaris* resound sweetly while Mother Yashoda (and others) offer flower petals and pollen to his lotus feet. Raghunath Dasa Goswami exclaims, Hu, hu! (struck with wonder) by the charm of Mohana Gokula lala. Just see Madana Gopalajis auspicious arati.! The songs remaining portion, which follows, is to be sung swiftly, is a kirtan of Madana Gopalas various names. madana gopala jaya jaya yashoda dulala ki yashoda dulala jaya jaya nanda dulala ki nanda dulAla jaya jaya giridhari lAla ki giridhari lAla jaya jaya radha ramana lAla ki radha ramana lAla jaya jaya radha vinoda lAla ki radha vinoda lAla jaya jaya radha kanta lAla ki radha kanta lAla jaya jaya govinda gopAla ki govinda gopAla jaya jaya gaura gopAla ki gaura gopAla jaya jaya zacira dulAla ki zacira dulAla jaya jaya nitai dayAla ki nitai dayAla jaya jaya shri advaita dayAla ki zri advaita dayAla jaya jaya gadadhara lAla ki gadadhara lAla jaya jaya zrivasa dayAla ki zrivasa dayAla jaya jaya bhakta-vRnda lAla ki bhakta-vRnda lAla jaya jaya zri guru dayAla ki parama karunamaya prema data zri guru dayAla ki zubha Arati kiye jaya jaya madana gopAla ki Sri Radharanis Sandhya Arati

jaya jaya radheji ko sharana tu-hari aichana Arati jaya bolihari pata patambara ude nIla sArI sitha pora sindUra jaya bolihari besha banayalo priyA sahachari ratana siGhAsane baithalo gauri ratane jadita maNi manikya moti jhalamala AbharaNa prati aGga jyotih cuya candana gandha dei vraja-bala vRSabhAnu rAja nandini vadana ujAla caudike sakhigana deya karatali

Arati karotohi lalita piyari nava nava vraja-vadhU maGgala gAoye priya-narma sakhigana camara dhulaoye radha pada-paGkaja bhakatahi asha dAsa manohara koroto bharasa Glories, glories to Sri Radhikaji! I take your shelter. As you are glorious, so is your aratijaya bolihari! Radhas blue silken shari is waving in the breeze, revealing the bright sindura (kunkum) above her head. The priya sahacharis have dressed herAho! Just see how Gauri looks seated upon her jeweled singhasan! Radhas dress is studded with gemsand her body is highly effulgent! The Vraja-balas* offer chandan and various perfumes while gazing upon Vrishabhanu rajanandinis gorgeous face. The sakhis surround Radha and clap in unison as Lalita-pyari* offers the arati. The kishori Vraja-vadhus sing and the priya narma sakhis twirl chamaras. Manohara dasa sings: I hanker to serve Radharanis lotus feet. 1.