Holi, the vibrant and colorful festival, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Braj, particularly in the home of Krishna. The festival of Holi in Braj is not just a celebration of colors but also a manifestation of the divine playfulness of Krishna.
One day, as the festival approached, Krishna’s Gop-sakhas (friends) gathered, excited to celebrate Holi with Him. As the noise of their jubilant preparations filled the air, Krishna, who was not keen on the boisterous celebration, ran inside and hid in the lap of His beloved mother, Yashoda Maiya.
“Maiya, Maiya,” Krishna pleaded with a touch of childlike fear, “I am scared of the colors. Please hide me from these friends of mine. They are coming with all sorts of colors, and I am alone.”
Yashoda Maiya, though lovingly protective, was convinced by Krishna’s earnest request and agreed to shield Him. Meanwhile, the Gop-sakhas called out, “O Kanhaiya! O Kanhaiya! Come out and play Holi with us!” Armed with syringes of colorful water, they eagerly awaited Krishna’s appearance.
Despite Yashoda Maiya’s attempts to divert them, they were not convinced. They knew Krishna well and suspected He was hiding. Madhumangal, a Brahmin friend and a lover of sweets, insisted on checking inside.
Yashoda Maiya reluctantly allowed Madhumangal to enter. After a thorough search, he found Krishna huddled in a corner of the room.
“Madhumangal,” Krishna said, “Please go out and tell my friends that I am not here.”
Madhumangal, however, was adamant about the truth and couldn’t lie. Krishna then offered him a tempting deal. “I will give you many laddus if you tell them that I am not inside. Just make them leave so I can stay hidden.”
Unable to resist the allure of the laddus, Madhumangal agreed. Krishna immediately provided him with a large pile of laddus, fulfilling his promise.
Madhumangal, now holding the laddus, stepped outside and delivered Krishna’s message in his own innocent way: “Lala is hiding inside and asked me to tell you that He is not inside, so please go away.”
The Gop-sakhas, hearing this, misunderstood the message. They thought that Krishna was hiding and that this was a part of the fun. The enthusiasm grew louder as they rushed into Nandbhavan, clapping, shouting, and laughing with glee.
They found Krishna and, with great joy, drenched Him in all sorts of colors. Krishna, fully embracing the playful spirit of the festival, joined them in their revelry. He played with them just as they wished, fulfilling their desire for His presence and participation.
This episode highlights several important teachings:
Teachings from Srila Prabhupada and the Srimad Bhagavatam
- Divine Playfulness and Devotion: The story showcases Krishna’s playful nature, which is an essential aspect of His divine personality. Srila Prabhupada often explained that Krishna’s pastimes are filled with such leelas (divine plays) that demonstrate His love and affection for His devotees. These pastimes are meant to delight and attract devotees to His divine service (Srimad Bhagavatam 10.29.16).
- The Joy of Devotion: Krishna’s participation in Holi illustrates the joy and spontaneity found in devotion. Srila Prabhupada taught that true devotion is marked by spontaneous love and joy, as evidenced by Krishna’s engagement with His devotees. The spontaneous nature of devotion is an important aspect of bhakti (devotion) (Bhagavad-gita 9.22).
- The Importance of Sincerity: Madhumangal’s inability to lie reflects the purity and sincerity of a devotee. Srila Prabhupada emphasized that sincere devotion and truthfulness are key attributes of a devotee. Even in playful exchanges, the purity of intention and honesty are valued (Srimad Bhagavatam 10.8.37).
- Krishna’s Reciprocal Nature: Krishna’s interactions with His friends demonstrate how He reciprocates with His devotees’ desires. Srila Prabhupada described how Krishna fulfills the wishes of His devotees, often going beyond their expectations, as seen in His playful engagement with the Gop-sakhas (Srimad Bhagavatam 10.22.36).
Conclusion
Holi in Braj is not merely a festival of colors but a celebration of Krishna’s divine playfulness and His loving interactions with His devotees. This story vividly captures the essence of Krishna’s interactions and serves as a reminder of the joyful and reciprocal nature of devotional service. The festival is an invitation for all to experience and participate in the divine joy that Krishna brings to the lives of His devotees.
Aaj Biraj Mein Holi Re Rasiya, Holi Re Rasiya, Barjori Re Rasiya!
This exuberant celebration reflects the essence of Krishna’s divine play and the joyous participation of His devotees, creating an atmosphere of pure, unbounded love and devotion.
