Vrndavana: Krishna’s Eternal Home
Sri Vrndavana is not merely a tirtha (holy place); it is Bhagavan’s own dhama (abode), His eternal home. Vrndavana is Krishna’s svarupa (form) because Krishna and His abode are non-different.
Narada’s Journey to Prayaga
According to the Puranas, Devarsi Narada was once singing the glories of Sri Hari on his vina when he reached Prayaga. This Prayaga is Tirtharaja, or the king of all holy places. Prayaga welcomed Narada with great honor and narrated the story of how he became Tirtharaja.
Narada’s Doubt
Sri Narada said, “Bhagavan has given you the post of Tirtharaja, but I have some doubt in this regard. Does Vrndavana ever come to make offerings to you along with the other holy places?”
Tirtharaja replied, “No.”
Sri Narada asked, “Then, what kind of Tirtharaja are you?”
This statement pierced the heart of Tirtharaja, who understood it to be true. Disturbed by this, he went to Bhagavan.
Tirtharaja’s Plea
Seeing Tirtharaja approaching, Bhagavan honored him appropriately and asked him why he had come. Tirtharaja humbly replied, “Prabhu, You have appointed me as Tirtharaja, but Sri Vrndavana never comes to make any offering to me. If a small holy place like Vrndavana does not accept my jurisdiction, then it is not at all appropriate for me to hold the title of Tirtharaja.”
Bhagavan’s Response
Upon hearing the statements of Prayaga Raja, Bhagavan became silent. His eyes brimmed with tears as He remembered Braja – cow grazing, His sakhas (friends), Nanda Baba and mother Yasoda’s affection, His beloved Kisori Sri Radha, the gopis, and His rasa vilasa (sweet pastimes). These memories appeared in His heart along with many others from Braja.
Bhagavan’s heart melted and He spoke very gravely, “Oh Tirtharaja! It is true that I have appointed you the king of all holy places, but I have not made you the king of My home, Sri Vrndavana. The land of Vrndavana is not only My home, but is the supreme place of My beloved Sri Radha’s pastimes. We reside there eternally. Therefore, Vrndavana is not merely a holy place. You too can worship and serve Vrndavana in some way.”
Moral of the Story
This story illustrates the supreme sanctity and unique status of Vrndavana as the eternal abode of Krishna. It underscores the special place Vrndavana holds in the heart of the Lord, beyond the realm of other holy places.
Reflection
- Supreme Sanctity of Vrndavana:
- Vrndavana is not just a holy place; it is the eternal home of Krishna and His beloved pastimes with Radha and the gopis. It holds a unique status that even the Tirtharaja, king of all holy places, respects and venerates.
- Non-Difference between Krishna and His Abode:
- Krishna and His abode, Vrndavana, are non-different. This reflects the profound spiritual truth that the Lord and His sacred places are eternally connected.
- Devotion and Service:
- The story encourages us to approach Vrndavana with the utmost reverence and devotion. Even the Tirtharaja seeks to worship and serve Vrndavana, recognizing its unparalleled significance.
Conclusion
The tale of Tirtharaja and Vrndavana highlights the transcendental nature of Vrndavana as Krishna’s eternal home and the supreme place of His pastimes with Radha. This narrative reminds us to cherish and revere Vrndavana, engaging in devotional service with a heart full of love and respect.
Prayer
Let us pray for the grace to understand and appreciate the supreme sanctity of Vrndavana:
“O Supreme Lord, guide us to approach Vrndavana with the reverence it deserves. Help us to engage in devotional service and to cherish Your eternal abode, where Your divine pastimes with Radha Rani and the gopis unfold.”
