Kamsa’s Evil Plans
- Kamsa planned to kill Krishna, Balarama, Vasudeva, and Nanda Maharaja.
- He also intended to kill his father, Ugrasena, and his uncle, Devaka.
- Kamsa sought the support of Jarasandha, Dvividha, Shambhara, Banasura, and Narakasura.
Kamsa’s Instructions to Akrūra
- Kamsa revealed his evil plans to Akrūra and requested him to find Krishna and Balarama in Vṛndāvana and bring them to Mathura.
- Akrūra subtly warned Kamsa with the wisdom that “Man proposes, God disposes.”
Akrūra’s Journey to Vṛndāvana
- Early Morning: Kesi and Vyomasura were killed.
- Same Day: Kamsa instructed Akrūra to go to Vṛndāvana.
- Next Morning: Akrūra started his journey to Vṛndāvana, thinking of Krishna on the way.
- Krishna’s Lotus Feet: Akrūra meditated on the presence of Krishna’s lotus feet everywhere in Vṛndāvana, revered by the great Devas.
Akrūra’s Devotion
- Akrūra offered his first Dandavats (prostrations).
- Though acting as Kamsa’s messenger, Krishna, as Ksirodakasayi Vishnu, knew his heart.
- Akrūra anticipated Krishna and Balarama embracing him, which would purify him of all sins.
- He rolled on the ground of Vṛndāvana, setting an example for devotees to follow during their pilgrimage.
Akrūra Meets Krishna and Balarama
- Reception: Krishna and Balarama smiled at Akrūra. He fell at Their feet, displaying symptoms of pure love.
- Hospitality: Krishna raised him and both embraced.
- Respect: Krishna performed Padha Puja (worship of feet) for Akrūra.
- Nanda Maharaja’s Inquiry: Nanda Maharaja asked Akrūra about Kamsa.
- Fulfillment: All of Akrūra’s desires during his journey were fulfilled. He reflected on the blessings of serving the Lord.
Krishna’s Inquiry and Akrūra’s Revelations
- Supper: After supper, Krishna and Balarama bid Akrūra “good night”.
- Questions: Krishna asked Akrūra about Kamsa’s dealings with his friends, his relatives, and Kamsa’s plans.
- Krishna’s Past: Krishna recollected the hardships faced by his father due to Kamsa.
- Akrūra’s Information: Akrūra narrated Kamsa’s plans and the stories revealed by Narada about Krishna being Vasudeva’s son.
Departure for Mathura
- Purpose of Visit: Akrūra’s purpose was to take Krishna back to Mathura.
- Response: Balarama and Krishna mildly laughed at Kamsa’s plans.
- Preparation: On Krishna’s word, Nanda Maharaja called for the cowherd boys and prepared to set out for Mathura with lots of milk and milk preparations.
- Invitation: Nanda Maharaja invited villagers for Dhanur Yagna.
Gopis’ Despair
- Separation: The Gopis were overwhelmed with anxiety at the imminent separation from Krishna.
- Grief: They stopped all work, some fainted, and others conversed about their sorrow.
- Condemnation: They condemned Akrūra, seeing him as the cause of their separation from Krishna.
- Determination: The Gopis decided to personally stop Krishna.
- Departure: Akrūra started for Mathura with Krishna and Balarama on the chariot, followed by Nanda Maharaja and the cowherd boys.
Akrūra’s Vision and Prayers
- Gopis’ Farewell: The Gopis surrounded the chariot, looking at Krishna with pitiable eyes. Krishna, though affected, had to start for Mathura.
- Consolation: Krishna consoled the Gopis, assuring them of his return.
- Journey: As the chariot proceeded, the minds of the Gopis followed.
- Yamuna Vision: Akrūra saw Krishna and Balarama in the Yamuna waters and offered prayers in a faltering voice, overwhelmed by the vision.
Lessons to be Learned
- Divine Will: Man proposes, but God disposes. Trust in the divine plan.
- Devotion and Humility: Akrūra’s humility and devotion are exemplary. Rolling in the dust of Vṛndāvana symbolizes surrender and reverence.
- Krishna’s Omniscience: Krishna knows the heart of every devotee and fulfills their sincere desires.
- Gopis’ Devotion: The intense love and devotion of the Gopis for Krishna demonstrate the highest form of Bhakti (devotion).
Prayer
O Lord Krishna, the supreme protector and divine guide,
Grant us the humility and devotion like Akrūra,
To always think of You and seek Your shelter in all circumstances.
May we follow the example of the Gopis,
And develop an unwavering love for You,
Remembering Your pastimes and chanting Your holy names.
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
This detailed guide covers the significant events and teachings from Akrūra’s journey to Vṛndāvana, his meeting with Krishna and Balarama, and the emotional departure for Mathura, emphasizing the lessons and devotional practices to be learned from these pastimes