In the sacred land of Vrindavan, there is a forest called Hasyavan, which literally means “the forest of laughter.” One day, as Krishna was grazing His cows with a group of cowherd boys, they came upon another group of shepherds in Hasyavan. When the two groups met, they ran towards each other, embraced, and burst into joyous laughter, exchanging jokes and lighthearted banter.
The Joy of Companionship
The laughter in Hasyavan is not just ordinary; it is a reflection of the divine joy that the residents of Vrindavan share in each other’s company. The sound of their laughter echoes through the trees, filling the forest with a unique nectar of bliss. This laughter is said to be the best medicine, even in Vrindavan, where every sound carries the sweet essence of Krishna’s pastimes.
Krishna’s Playful Nature
One day, Krishna decided to play a joke on an old servant named Jyareti in Nandagram. He approached her with a mischievous smile and said, “My dear Jyareti, the skin on your face has loosened, making you resemble a monkey. Therefore, the monkey king, Balimukha, has chosen you to be his worthy wife!” Krishna and His friends couldn’t contain their laughter, rolling on the ground with delight.
But Jyareti, quick-witted as she was, replied with equal humor, “My dear Krishna, I am indeed worried that the monkey king wants me as his wife. But what can I do? I have already taken refuge in the prince of Vraja, Sri Krishna, the protector of all Vrindavan. Therefore, I have decided to marry only Sri Krishna, not the monkey king.”
Her witty response made everyone present—Krishna, the cowherd boys, and the gopis—burst into uncontrollable laughter, clapping their hands with great pleasure.
The Significance of Hasyavan
The Acharyas describe Hasyavan as one of the favorite places of Krishna, Balarama, and the cowherd boys. It is said that liberated souls, whose pure singing allows them to hear the echo reflected in the trees of Hasyavan, are blessed to experience the divine laughter of Krishna and His friends. This echo of laughter invites them to immerse themselves in the joyous mood of Vrindavan.
After the trials of this world, like the recent pandemic, we can long to visit such places as Hasyavan, where we can immerse ourselves in the joy of Krishna’s pastimes, laugh, and experience the bliss of divine consciousness.
Lessons to Be Learned
- The Power of Divine Laughter: Laughter in the company of devotees, especially in the association of Krishna, is a powerful spiritual experience. It purifies the heart and uplifts the soul, reminding us that spirituality is not devoid of joy.
- Krishna’s Playful Nature: Krishna’s playful interactions with His devotees show that God is not only a distant, all-powerful figure but also a loving friend who enjoys light-hearted exchanges. This aspect of Krishna’s personality deepens our love and attachment to Him.
- The Importance of Witty Devotion: Jyareti’s quick-witted response to Krishna’s joke exemplifies how devotees can engage with the Lord in a playful and loving manner. It teaches us that devotion can be expressed in various forms, including humor and cleverness.
Prayer
O Lord Krishna, may we always find joy in Your pastimes and the company of Your devotees. Let our hearts be filled with the nectar of Your divine laughter, and may we always remain in the forest of Hasyavan, where Your blissful presence permeates everything.
Quote from Shastra
“My dear Krishna, the nectar of Your words and the descriptions of Your activities are the life and soul of those who are always aggrieved in this material world. These narrations are transmitted by exalted personalities, and they eradicate all sinful reactions. Whoever hears these narrations attains all good fortune. These narrations are broadcast all over the world and are filled with spiritual power.”
— Śrīmad Bhāgavatam 10.31.9
