Sri Yudhishthira Maharaja asked of Lord Sri Krishna, "What is the name of that Ekadasi that occurs during the light fortnight (shukla paksha) of the month of Bhadrapada (August-September "Hrishikesha mase") ? Who is the worshipable Deity for this Ekadasi, and what merit does one attain in observing it? Kindly reveal all of this to me my Lord."

The Supreme Personality of Godhead Lord Sri Krishna addressed His devoted Yudhishthira as follows, "This Ekadasii, Oh Yudhishthira, is called Vamana Ekadasi, and it bestows upon those who observe it both great merit and ultimate liberation from material bondage. Therefore, because it removes all one's sinful reactions, it is also called Jayanti Ekadasi. Just hearing of its glories frees one from all his past misdeeds. So auspicious is this fast that observing it bestows the same merit as that earned by performing a horse sacrifice. There is no better Ekadasi than this, because it awards liberation so easily. Thus if one truly desires freedom from the punishing material world, one should fast on Vamana Ekadasi.

"While observing this holy fast, a Vaishnava should lovingly worship the Supreme Lord in His form as Vamandev, the dwarf incarnation, whose eyes are like lotus petals. By doing so, he worships all other Deities as well, including Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and at death he undoubtedly goes to that abode of Sri Hari. In all the three worlds there is no fast that is more important to observe.

The reason this Ekadasi is so auspicious is that it celebrates the day when the sleeping Lord Vishnu turns over on His other side; thus it is also known as Parivartinii Ekadasi."

Maharaja Yudhishthira then asked of the Lord, "Oh Janardana, please clear up a question I have. How is it that the Supreme Lord sleeps and then turns over on His side? Oh Lord, when You are asleep what happens to all the other living entities? Please also tell me how You bound the king of the demons, Bali Daityaraj (Bali Maharaja), as well as how one may please the brahmanas. How does one observe Chaturmasya, which You mention in the Chaturmasya-mahatmya of the Bhavishya Purana? Kindly be merciful to me and answer these questions."

The Supreme Personality of Godhead Sri Krishna replied, "Oh Yudhishthira, lion among Kings, I will gladly narrate to you an historical event that, simply by hearing, eradicates all one's sinful reactions.

"In the TretA-yuga there once was a king of the name Bali. Though born in a family dynasty of demons (daityas), he was very devoted to Me. He sang many Vedic hymns to Me and performed the homa rituals (fire sacrifices) just to satisfy Me. He respected the twice-born brahmins and engaged them in performing sacrifices daily. This great soul had a quarrel with Indra, however, and eventually defeated him in battle. Bali took over his entire celestial kingdom, which I Myself had given to Indra. Therefore Indra and all the other devas (demigods), along with many great sages, approached Me and complained about Bali Maharaja. Bowing their heads to the ground and offering many sacred prayers from the Vedas, they worshipped Me along with their spiritual master, Brihaspati. Thus I agreed to appear on their behalf as a dwarf Vamanadev, My fifth incarnation."

King Yudhishthira further enquired, "Oh Lord, how was it possible for You to conquer such a powerful demon, and only by coming in the form of a dwarf brahmin? Please explain this clearly, for I am Your faithful devotee."

The Supreme Lord, Sri Krishna replied, "Though a dwarf, I was a brahmana, and I approached that pious king Bali to ask him for alms in the form of land. I said, 'Oh Daityraj Bali, please give Me just three steps of land in charity. Such a small piece of land will be good as all the three worlds for Me.'

Bali agreed to grant My request without lengthy consideration. But as soon as he vowed to give Me the land, My body began to expand into a gigantic transcendental form. I covered the entire Earth with My feet, all the Bhuvarloka with My thighs, the Swarga heavens with My waist, Maharloka with My stomach, Janaloka with My chest, Tapoloka with My neck, and Satyaloka with My head and face. I covered the entire material creation. Indeed, all the planets of the universe, including the Sun and the Moon, were encompassed by My gigantic form."

"Seeing this astonishing pastime of Mine, all the demigods, including Indra and Shesha, the king of the snakes, began to sing Vedic hymns and offer prayers to Me. Then I took Bali by the hand and said to him, 'Oh sinless one, I have covered the whole Earth with one step and all the heavenly planets with the second. Now where shall I place My foot to measure the third step of land you promised Me?'

"Upon hearing this, Bali Maharaja bowed down in humility and offered Me his head to place My third step. Oh Yudhishthira, I placed My foot on his head and sent him all the way to Patalaloka. Seeing him thus humbled, I became very pleased and told Bali that henceforth I would permanently reside in his palace.

Thereafter, on Parivartinii Ekadasi, which occurs during the light part of the month of Bhadra (August-September), Bali, the son of Virochana, grandson of Prahlad, installed a Deity form of Me in his residence.

"Oh king, until Haribodhinii Ekadasi, which occurs during the light part of the month of Karttika, I continue to sleep in the ocean of milk. The merit one accumulates during this period is particularly powerful.

"One should therefore observe Parivartinii EkAdasii carefully. Indeed, it is especially purifying and thus cleanses one of all sinful reactions. On this day the faithful devotee should worship Lord Trivikrama, Vamanadeva, who is the supreme father, because on this day I turn over to sleep on My other side.

"If possible, on this day one should give a qualified person some yogurt mixed with rice, as well as some silver, and then remain awake throughout the night. This simple observance will free one of all material conditioning. One who observes this sacred Parivartinii Ekadasi in the way I have described will surely attain all kinds of happiness in this world and the kingdom of God in the hereafter.

One who simply hears this narration with devotion will go to the abode of the demigods and shine there like the Moon itself, so powerful is observance of this Ekadasi. Indeed, this observance is as powerful as the performance of a thousand horse sacrifices."

Thus ends the narration of the glories of Parivartinii Ekadasi, or Vamana Ekadasi, which occurs during the light part of the month of Bhadrapada, from the Brahma-vaivarta Purana.

NOTE: Vāmana Dvādaśī

Next day (Sri Vamana Dvadashi), fasting has already been observed the day before on Ekadashi day, so break this fast with joyful feasting of Lord Vamanadev's appearance day mahaprasadam!

Vāmana Dvādaśī is the appearance day of Lord Vāmanadeva, who appeared in the form of a small brāhmaṇa boy and entered into the remarkable pastime of accepting charity from Mahārāja Bali, the grandson of Prahlāda Mahārāja.
 

Bali Mahārāja, who was the grandson of Prahlāda Mahārāja and a powerful king of the Daitya dynasty, worshipped Lord Viṣṇu. Through his strength and determination, he was able to defeat Indra and became the ruler of the entire universe. Seeing that the demigods had lost their position, Aditi, the mother of the demigods, together with the devas, approached Lord Viṣṇu and offered their prayers and obeisances. Lord Viṣṇu agreed to appear as Vāmanadeva.
 

The Lord then appeared as a brāhmaṇa in a dwarf-like form, and He became known as Vāmanadeva. He eventually went to the sacrificial arena of King Bali, accompanied by Indra, and approached the king to ask for charity.

When Bali Mahārāja saw the young brāhmaṇa, he welcomed Him and offered Him the opportunity to ask for whatever He desired. Vāmanadeva simply requested three steps of land.

Bali Mahārāja was surprised. He said, in effect, “Why only three steps? I can give You an entire planet. I can give You a wonderful wife, wealth, jewels, or anything else You desire!”

But Vāmanadeva remained satisfied with His simple request. He explained that if one cannot become satisfied with three steps of land, then one will not necessarily become satisfied even by possessing much more.

Bali Mahārāja was ready to fulfill the request, but his spiritual master, Śukrācārya, understood that this was Lord Viṣṇu Himself appearing as Vāmanadeva. He therefore warned Bali Mahārāja not to give the Lord what He had requested.

Śukrācārya explained various circumstances in which a person could withdraw from a promise without incurring fault—for example, in certain situations involving danger, marriage arrangements, or the protection of one's life. He tried to convince Bali Mahārāja that he did not have to fulfill his promise.

But Bali Mahārāja had already made his decision.

He thought, “If He is Viṣṇu, then I worship Viṣṇu. If the Lord Himself has come before me and asked for this, then I will give Him exactly what He has requested.”

Śukrācārya became angry and warned Bali Mahārāja that if he continued with the offering, he would lose everything. Yet Bali Mahārāja remained determined.

At that moment, Vāmanadeva prepared to receive the water that would formally confirm Bali Mahārāja's gift. Śukrācārya, using his mystic power, entered the spout of the water pot in the form of a small creature in an attempt to prevent the water from flowing.

Vāmanadeva then used a small blade of straw to clear the opening. Śukrācārya was struck in the process and became blind in one eye.

The obstruction was removed, and Bali Mahārāja poured the water into Vāmanadeva's hand, formally confirming his promise.

And then the astonishing transformation took place.

The small form of Vāmanadeva began to expand—bigger and bigger and bigger—until He became Trivikrama, the gigantic universal form of the Lord.

With His first step, He covered the earthly planetary system, Bhū-loka. Then His body continued expanding until He covered the higher planetary systems—Bhūḥ, Bhuvaḥ and Svaḥ, extending through Maharloka, Janaloka, Tapoloka and Satyaloka. His form encompassed the entire universe.

His foot reached the covering of the universe, and His toenail pierced that covering, allowing the waters of the Ganges to enter.

Then Trivikrama turned to Bali Mahārāja and asked, “Where shall I place My third step?”

Bali Mahārāja had nothing left to give. He had offered everything he possessed.

So he bowed down and offered his own head.

“Place Your lotus foot upon my head.”

And Vāmanadeva placed His lotus foot upon the head of Bali Mahārāja.

What appeared to be the loss of everything became the greatest blessing for Bali Mahārāja. The Lord then told him that he would go to Sutala, where he would reside, and the Lord Himself would remain there as his doorkeeper and protector, ensuring that no one would attack him.

This beautiful pastime also reminds us of the importance of Ekādaśī and Dvādaśī. The fast is observed on the Ekādaśī preceding Vāmana Dvādaśī, since Dvādaśī is the appearance day of Vāmanadeva and is not observed as a fasting day in the same way. On Ekādaśī, devotees traditionally refrain from cereals, grains and pulses, and those who are able may observe a more complete fast and remain awake throughout the night in remembrance of the Lord.
 

This is a great Ekādaśī, and its observance is understood to destroy previous karmic reactions and bring one closer to the spiritual destination.

The story of Bali Mahārāja is especially inspiring because he was a gṛhastha, just as Prahlāda Mahārāja was, and yet both demonstrated profound devotion. Bali Mahārāja was born in a family of demons, but his birth did not prevent him from becoming a great devotee. His life shows that devotion to the Lord is not restricted by one's family background. When one sincerely practices bhakti-yoga and chants the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra, spiritual success is possible.

As His Holiness Jayapatākā Swami has encouraged:

Please chant Hare Kṛṣṇa.
 

Vāmana Dvādaśī in Māyāpur

In Śrī Māyāpur, the celebration of Vāmana Dvādaśī carries a particularly sweet and intimate mood. Devotees make an effort to recreate the auspicious atmosphere of this pastime through loving service.

One of the special sights during the celebration is a young little Vaiṣṇava dressed as Lord Vāmanadeva. Devotees then lovingly offer personal seva to Vāmanadeva, including washing His feet, offering massage, feeding Him and performing many other forms of service.

There is a special sweetness in witnessing this. A child dressed as Vāmanadeva becomes the focus of loving service, and devotees have the opportunity to participate in a simple and heartfelt recreation of the mood surrounding the Lord's appearance.

In this way, Vāmana Dvādaśī in Māyāpur is not simply an occasion to hear the story of Vāmanadeva and Bali Mahārāja. It becomes an opportunity to remember the Lord's appearance, to glorify His wonderful activities, and to experience the joy of serving Him together.
 

On this auspicious Vāmana Dvādaśī, let us remember the surrender of Bali Mahārāja, the mercy of Lord Vāmanadeva, and the power of sincere devotional service.

Hare Kṛṣṇa! 

 Sri Campakalata Devi — The Third of the Varistha-Gopis

Among the beloved companions of Srimati Radharani in the eternal pastimes of Sri Vrindavana, Sri Campakalata Devi holds a distinguished place as the third of the Varistha-gopis, the most senior and prominent of Sri Radha’s intimate companions.

Her complexion resembles the radiant golden-yellow hue of a blossoming campaka flower, while her garments shine in the deep blue color of a blue-jay. She is described as being one day younger than Srimati Radharani, and her age is given as 14 years, 2 months, and 13½ days.

Campakalata Devi is the daughter of Arama and Vatika-devi, and her husband is Candaksa. Her qualities are said to be much like those of Visakha-devi, particularly her intelligence, diplomacy, and skill in presenting persuasive arguments.

 A Skilled Diplomat and Protector

Campakalata Devi is known for carrying out her activities with great secrecy. She possesses exceptional skill in logical persuasion and diplomacy, making her particularly adept at protecting Srimati Radharani from the efforts of Her rivals.

Her intelligence is matched by her practical abilities. Campakalata Devi is expert at gathering fruits, flowers, and roots from the forests of Vrindavana. Among the gopis entrusted with caring for the trees, creepers, and flowering plants of Vrindavana, she is regarded as their foremost leader.

Her service extends into the kitchen as well. She is an expert cook, deeply familiar with the literatures describing the six varieties of tastes in gourmet cooking. Her mastery of preparing sweets is so remarkable that she is celebrated by the name Mistahasta, meaning “sweet hands.”

With nothing more than the skill of her hands, she can also artistically shape beautiful objects from clay.

 Kamalata Kunja

On the southern petal of Madana-sukhada Kunja lies Kamalata Kunja, the beautiful abode of Sri Campakalata Devi, who is deeply beloved by Sri Krishna.

The entire kunja is described as having the radiant appearance of molten gold, reflecting the golden beauty associated with Campakalata Devi.

Campakalata Devi embodies the mood of a vasaka-sajja nayika—one who is beautifully prepared and eagerly awaiting the arrival of her beloved. Her nature is described as vama-madhya, and among her intimate services to Sri Krishna are offering jeweled necklaces and gently fanning Him with a camara.

 Her Beloved Associates

Campakalata Devi leads her own group, or yutha, of intimate gopis. Among the chief gopis associated with her are:

• Kurangaksi

• Suracita

• Mandali

• Manimandana

• Candika

• Candralatika

• Kandukaksi

• Sumandira

Together, they participate in the loving service and transcendental pastimes of Sri Sri Radha and Krishna in Vrindavana.

 Campakalata Devi in Gaura-lila

The eternal associates of Sri Krishna also appear in the pastimes of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. In Gaura-lila, Campakalata Devi appears as Raghava Goswami, carrying her devotional service into the earthly pastimes of Sri Gauranga.

Through her many qualities—her intelligence, diplomacy, artistic abilities, cooking expertise, and dedicated service—Sri Campakalata Devi represents the extraordinary variety of loving service offered to Sri Sri Radha and Krishna.

Her life and service remind us that in Vrindavana, even the smallest offering—whether a flower, a fruit, a lovingly prepared sweet, or a gentle breeze from a camara—can become an expression of the deepest spiritual love and devotion.

30 October – 2 November 2026 | 4 Days / 3 Nights

A 4-Day Spiritual Journey Through the Sacred Land of Gaura Mandala
 

The Mayapur Tourism Division presents the Kartik Gaura Mandala Yatra 2026, a journey through sacred places connected with Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Sri Nityananda Prabhu, and Their beloved associates.

Travel through historic Sripats, samadhi sites, birthplaces, sacred residences, temples and places connected with the pastimes and service of the devotees of Gaura-Nitai.

This yatra offers an opportunity to visit places that preserve the memories of the devotees who served and glorified Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu and Sri Nityananda Prabhu.

Sacred Places to Visit:
 

A Journey Through Living Memories

These are not simply places to visit. Each destination is connected with the lives, service and devotion of devotees who played an important role in the pastimes and glorification of Sri Gauranga and His associates.

During the four-day yatra, devotees will have the opportunity to visit 16+ sacred pastime places, hear about their significance, and take darshan of sacred deities and relics preserved at several of these sites.
 

Dates: 30 October – 2 November 2026
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Accommodation: Room stay in Katwa
Transport: AC transport
Meals: Prasadam — all meals
Cost: ₹6,000 per person — All-Inclusive
Children below 4 years do not require a separate seat.
 

What it Includes:
 

✓ Room stay in Katwa
✓ Prasadam — all meals
✓ AC transport
 

How to Join:
 

To reserve your place on the Kartik Gaura Mandala Yatra 2026, contact the Mayapur Tourism Division on WhatsApp:

+91 70635 73959
+91 97335 78071
 

Ready to Join Us?
 

Message us on WhatsApp to enquire and book your place.

30 October – 2 November 2026
₹6,000 per person | 4 Days / 3 Nights
 

Mayapur Tourism Division
Journey through the sacred land of Gaura Mandala.

Among the beloved companions of Srimati Radharani, eight gopis are especially celebrated as the parama-prestha-sakhis — Lalita, Visakha, Citra, Campakalata, Tungavidya, Indulekha, Rangadevi and Sudevi. These eight gopis are chief amongst all the gopis.

Among them is Sri Tungavidya Sakhi, renowned for her extraordinary learning, artistic abilities and deep devotion to Sri Krishna. In Sri Mayapur Dham, Tungavidya Sakhi is beautifully adorned with garlands and ornaments as devotees celebrate her divine appearance day.

Tungavidya is the fifth of the varistha gopis. She is especially celebrated as an expert in music, dance, literature, drama and the transcendental science of rasa. She is a celebrated music teacher, expert at playing the vina and singing in the style known as marga. She is also highly skilled in the eighteen branches of knowledge and is very expert at arranging the meetings of the Divine Couple.

Her beauty is described as radiant like saffron mixed with camphor and sandalwood paste. She wears pale yellow garments, and her crimson-colored grove, Tungavidyanandada Kunja, lies on the western petal of Madana-sukhada Kunja, where she eternally resides.

The Sri Sri Radha-Krishna Ganoddesa Dipika states that Tungavidya is fifteen days younger than Srimati Radharani. There are, however, some differences of opinion regarding her actual appearance day. In the Gaura Govindarcana Smarana Paddhati, Tungavidya is described as 14 years, 2 months and 22 days old, while Srimati Radharani is 14 years, 2 months and 15 days old, which would place Tungavidya’s appearance seven days before Radharani’s. According to the Radha-Krishna Ganoddesa Dipika, Tungavidya is 15 days older or younger according to the translator. Our Jananivas Prabhu says that the proper time is 15 days before Radharani’s appearance.

Tungavidya’s parents are Puskara and Medha-devi, her husband is Balisa, and her home is in Yavata. In Gaura-lila she appears as Sri Vakresvara Pandita.

She is also described as having the mood of daksina-prakhara. Her loving nature combines intelligence, dignity and an ability to speak with reason, while still being easily enchanted and appeased by Krishna's sweet words.

The characteristics of a vipralabdha-nayika: The sages have said that the nayika who is very distressed at heart because her lover has not arrived for their secret meeting is known as a vipralabdha-nayika. Her behavior is marked by despondency, anxiety, lamentation, weeping, fainting, sighing, etc.

An example: A certain vrajadevi said to her saki, “O fawn-eyed Sakhi! As surely as the moon has risen, have we not been deceived by the Lord of Laksmi? In this situation, what shall I do? You please give me some advice.” Saying this, she became depressed.

The characteristics of a daksina-nayika are now given: That nayika who is intolerant in protecting her dignity, who speaks in a very reasonable and logical way to her lover, but who is enchanted and appeased by his sweet words of praise is called a daksina-nayika.

In Sri Radhika’s group, Sri Tungavidya and others are daksina-prakhara.

An example occurred when a certain prakhara priya-sakhi of¸ Sri Radha reprimanded Her like this: “O Sakhi! When Krishna has shown affection to You, You’ve been very hard on Him. When He offers obeisance to You, You are arrogant. When He tries to show You His love, You act inimically toward Him. When He is eager to be with You, You are indifferent to Him. O Difficult One! When You try to argue with Him, He speaks very reasonably. Now He has truly seen the contrary nature in You. Because of it You take sandalwood paste to be poison, the moon to be the sun, snow as fire, and pleasurable pastimes as pain.”

Some of the sakhis in Tungavidya’s yutha are Manjumedha, Sumadhura, Sumadhya, Madhureksana, Tanumadhya, Madhusyanda, Gunacuda and Varangada.

Her group is particularly accomplished in music and dance. Tungavidya is the leader of the gopis headed by Manjumedha-devi. These gopis excel not only in dance but also as accomplished musicians and skilled mrdanga players, frequently enchanting audiences in recital halls with their captivating performances.

She is especially devoted to her seva of dancing and singing, and her love for Sri Krishna is so deep that she exhibits the bhava known as vipralabdhatva.

The beauty and artistry of Tungavidya are wonderfully captured in this glorification:

candradyhair api candanaih sulalitam sri-kunkumabha-dyutim
sad-ratnanvita-bhusanancita-tanum sonambarollasitam
sad-gitavali-samyutam bahu-gunam damphasya sabdena vai
nrtyantim purato hare rasavatim sri-tungavidyam bhaje

I worship the very rasika , Sri Tungavidya, who is adorned with sandalwood paste mixed with camphor. Her beautiful saffron-colored body is decorated with many fine jeweled ornaments, she delights in wearing a lovely red dress, and she has many wonderful qualities. She knows many transcendental songs, and she dances before¸ Sri Hari to the beat of a dampha drum.

Her connection with music and dance is not merely artistic. These talents are all offered in the service of Sri Radha and Krishna. She helps arrange their meetings, assists through music and dance, and engages her remarkable learning in the service of the Divine Couple.

The Sri Sri Radha-Krishna Ganoddesa Dipika and Gaura Govindarcana Smarana Paddhati beautifully reveal these many qualities of Tungavidya Sakhi, showing us a personality who is simultaneously learned, artistic, strong in character and completely devoted to Krishna.

Her glories are also beautifully expressed in this verse:

References:
Sri Govindalilamrita
Sri Sri Radha Krishna Gaunadesa Dipika

“Encircled by beautifully attired gopis on Yamuna’s shore, Krsna has them begin playing orchestral music on wind instruments, string instruments, and drums. Then that King of Dancers gracefully dances in their midst. In this way the Lord shines with great splendor as He enjoys pastimes in the groves of Vrndavana.”

• Manasam Manasam Tyagad, Stavamala

Glorification Verse

sac-candra-candana-manohara-kunkumabham pandu-cchavi-pracura-kanti-lasad-dukulam sarvatra kovidataya mahitam samajnam radhe! Bhaje priya-sakhim tava tunga-vidyam

Whose complexion is alluring like red kunkuma powder tinted with divine white camphor
Whose silken cloth glows with the profuse rays of pure yellow-whiteness
Who is honoured everywhere for her great and vastly learned wisdom
Oh Radhe! I worship Your beloved girlfriend, Tungavidya!

All glories to Sri Tungavidya Sakhi!

How fortunate were Devaki and Vasudeva — to have Sri Krishna appear as their beloved son!

But perhaps there is a deeper mystery behind their fortune.

Before they became Devaki and Vasudeva, they were Prishni and Sutapa. Before that, Aditi and Kashyapa. Across three consecutive births, they performed great austerities and offered themselves in sincere devotion, desiring only that the Supreme Lord would become their child.

We see their fortune in the moment of Krishna’s appearance, but we may not always see the many lifetimes of dedicated effort that came before it.

And perhaps that is one beautiful reminder for us this Janmashtami.

Whatever service we are engaged in, let us continue with strong, continuous and sincere effort, without becoming discouraged by what we cannot yet see. When our hearts are genuinely directed toward serving Krishna, we can trust His promise in the Bhagavad-gita: He will give us the knowledge by which we can come to Him.

And today, in Sri Dhama Mayapur, we celebrate that promise in the sweetest possible way — welcoming Krishna as a child.

Janmashtami here is never simply a festival marked on a calendar. It is a living experience, when the whole community gathers in the mood of welcoming the Supreme Lord into the world as a tender child.

One of the most touching moments is the samskara performed for baby Krishna, when a family is chosen to lovingly take the roles of Nanda Maharaja and Yashoda Maiya. Through prayers, mantras and yajna, devotees are drawn into the mood of caring for the Lord of the universe as their own beloved child.

The abhishek, the kirtan, the recitations, the dramas, and the children dressed as gopis and cowherd boys all come together to create something that feels far beyond a celebration.

For a moment, it feels as though Mayapur itself has become Nanda-gram, and Krishna is truly among us.

Every Janmashtami brings a new glimpse, a new feeling, a new opportunity to remember Him.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami 2026 — may this day awaken within us the determination to serve Him with greater sincerity, patience and devotion.

Jai Sri Krishna Janmashtami Ki Jai!
Hare Krishna!

On the most auspicious occasion of Srila Prabhupada’s Vyasa-puja, we would like to present a humble offering showcasing how Srila Prabhupada and his followers are fulfilling the prediction of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu by spreading His teachings throughout the world.

ISKCON GLOBAL TIMELINE PROJECT | 1966–2026

The ISKCON Global Timeline Project is being developed by the ISKCON Mayapur Master Plan Office as a step towards fulfilling Srila Prabhupada’s instruction:

"I want that our Mayapur festival there should be booths showing our activities."

The interactive map currently features 750+ ISKCON centres, with temple websites and Google Maps locations, along with 775+ darśanas of Their Lordships from around the world, allowing you to experience the love and devotion of devotees through darśana.

Project: https://srimayapurdhama.com/srilaprabhupada/temples/

(This is a work in progress, and we hope to continually enrich it with the help of devotees worldwide.)

  
Every temple, preaching centre, and nāma-haṭṭa is a precious part of Srila Prabhupada’s worldwide legacy. We humbly request your help in sharing or verifying information about your centre so that this historical record may be as accurate and complete as possible.

·Inauguration date or year

·City

·Presiding Deities - names and photos

·Google Maps location

·Official website or Facebook page

Email: masterplan@mayapur.ngo
WhatsApp: +91 80168 86555

Please also forward this message to devotees from other ISKCON centres who may be able to assist. Our heartfelt thanks to all the devotees who have generously dedicated their valuable time to collecting and sharing data, and for their encouragement and support in bringing this project together.

Your servant,
Nandan dasa
ISKCON Mayapur Master Plan Office  

The big brother is finally here!

And with the appearance of Sri Balarama, Sri Krishna Janmashtami is now just around the corner. The whole of Sri Mayapur Dham seems to be preparing its heart to welcome the Lord of our hearts!

These days in Mayapur are filled with one beautiful festival after another. Jhulan Yatra, Balarama Purnima, and the preparations for Sri Krishna Janmashtami all come together, creating an atmosphere filled with kirtan, darshan, seva and remembrance of the Lord.

On Balarama Purnima, devotees and visitors have the opportunity to experience beautiful darshans and programs accompanied by ecstatic kirtan and abhishek of the Lord at Rajapur, as well as at Sri Sri Radha Madhava's temple.

Sri Krishna Balarama are beautifully decorated for the occasion, and there is also a particularly sweet tradition that brings great joy to the devotees.

Many children, visitors and residents get the opportunity to offer Rakhi to the wrists of the Lords, a simple and heartfelt offering of love and prayer from the devotee to the Lord. And sometimes, the pujaris return the Rakhi after it has been offered.

To receive it back from the Lord's wrist feels incredibly special, like receiving a little piece of the Lord's mercy to carry home.

And while the festive mood continues, Jhulan Yatra reaches its joyful conclusion with one of the most playful and beloved moments of the celebration, the breaking of the pot!

A pot filled with different varieties of sweets is hung up, and devotees will take turns trying to break it. One person tries a few strikes, and if the pot remains intact, the next person gets their chance. With every attempt, the excitement grows!

All the while, ecstatic kirtan fills the atmosphere, transforming this simple, playful pastime into a deeply auspicious celebration. Laughter, kirtan, anticipation and the joy of serving the Lord come together as everyone eagerly waits for the pot to finally break.

And when it does, the sweetness of the celebration spreads through the whole gathering.

In this beautiful way, the final day of Jhulan Yatra comes to a close, and around 8–9 PM, the Deities are brought back to the temple, concluding another unforgettable evening in Sri Mayapur Dham.

But behind all these celebrations is a deeper remembrance:
 

Who is Lord Balarama?

Lord Balarama is an expansion of Lord Krishna glorified in the Vedic Puranas and Itihasas. Krishna is the spiritually manifest Supreme Person, whose internal spiritual energy is the all-pervading Brahman. He is glorified as Narayana, Vasudeva, Mahavishnu, Hari, Vishnu, and many other names. Shiva and Brahma are said to be His qualitative expansions. He is the Supreme Lord, the Lord of all universes. Everything emanates from Him and dissolves back in Him. He is the cause of creation, maintenance, and dissolution of everything and every living entity.

His chatur-vyuha (four-handed) expansions are Vasudeva, Sankarshana; Pradyumna; and Aniruddha. The Bhagavatam (12.11.21) says,

vasudevah Sankarsanah pradyumnah purushah svayam aniruddha iti brahman murtir vyuho abhidhiyate

“O brahmana (saint) Shaunaka, the quadruple primary expansions of Pususha

(Supreme Soul Narayana or Krshna) are Vasudeva, Sankarsana, Pradyumna, and Aniruddha.”

The primary expansion of Krishna is said to Sankarsana, the infinite snake Ananta on which the Lord rests. Sankarsana beholds all universes and maintains everything united.

The descended form of Sankarsana is Lord Balarama, who appeared as the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna and Sankarsana are originally one, although they appear different to the external eye. Lord Balarama assists Lord Krishna in His glorious transcendental lilas.

Lord Balarama appeared as the younger brother of Lord Ramachandra by the end of treta-yuga and He appeared as Nityananda Prabhu to distribute the mercy of Krishna to people with Caitanya Mahaprabhu five hundred years ago.

Once when the four Kumaras visited the bottom of the universe, they found Lord Sankarsana as a gigantic snake with numerous hoods. The Lord was seen in deep meditation beholding innumerable universes on His head.

Since He holds everything together, He is called Sankarsana, the binder who unites all.

Lord Shiva always meditates Lord Sankarsana as the Bhagavatam (5.17.16) tells,

bhavani-nathaih stri-ganarbuda-sahasrair-avarudhyamano bhagavatash-chatur-murter-maha-purushasya turiyam tamarsim murtim prakrtim-atmanah Sankarsana-samjnam- atma samadhi-rupena sannidhapyaitad-abhigrnan bhava upadhavati

“Lord Shiva, served by tens of billions of maid servants of Goddess Bhavani

(in Ilavrta-varsha), deeply meditates, chants and worships one of the four expansions of the Supreme Lord known as Sankarsana in the predominant quality of ignorance.”

At the time of destruction, it is said that the fire emanating from the mouth of Sankarsana would dissolve all the worldly manifestations at the end of the universe. Therefore, Sankarsana helps Lord Krshna and causes the union and destruction of all universal manifestations.

That Sankarsana appeared as Balarama and any devotee who seeks Krishna should first seek His mercy to be blessed with proper bhakti (devotion) to Lord Krishna.
 

From Balarama Purnima to Janmashtami

And so, as we celebrate the appearance of Lord Balarama, our hearts are naturally drawn toward the auspicious appearance of His beloved younger brother, Sri Krishna.

Janmashtami is just around the corner!

What better way to welcome the Lord of our hearts than by offering something for His pleasure?

This year in Sri Mayapur Dham, there are many beautiful opportunities to serve and contribute towards the Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations. From Abhishek Seva, including Panchamrita, milk, honey, fruit juice and flower abhishek, to offerings for the Lord, Mahaprasad and devotee services, there are many ways to make a heartfelt offering.

Whether you are here in Mayapur or serving from wherever you are, your seva can become part of welcoming Sri Krishna on His appearance day.

Lord Balarama has appeared. Sri Krishna Janmashtami is coming.

Let us take this auspicious opportunity to prepare our hearts and offer our service for the pleasure of the Lord.
 

Explore the Janmashtami Seva opportunities and find a way to serve:

Pancha Pushpa Water — ₹15,001

Fruit Juices — ₹12,501

Chandan — ₹10,001

Honey — ₹10,001

Sugar Candy — ₹8,001

Ghee — ₹7,001

Yogurt — ₹6,001

Milk — ₹5,001

Green Coconut — ₹4,001

Rose Water — ₹3,001

Abhishek Clothes — ₹2,501

For seva inquiries: WhatsApp 9593400192

Sri Krishna Janmashtami Seva: https://www.mayapur.com/festivals/Sri-Krishna-Janmastami

Hare Krishna!

Lord Balarama is the eternal companion of Sri Krishna. He came as Lakshmana with Rama and later as Nityananda Prabhu with Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. He is the original spiritual master, and anyone desiring to make spiritual progress must first get the mercy of Lord Balarama. Directly we can’t approach Krishna, only through Balarama we can approach supreme lord Krishna. Spiritual master represents the true representation of Balarama. Thus, by following the instructions of spiritual master and by pleasing him we can get the grace of Krishna.
 

In Caitanya Caritamrta Adi Lila Chapter 5 it is mentioned:

CC Ādi 5.4: The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Kṛṣṇa, is the fountainhead of all incarnations. Lord Balarāma is His second body.

CC Ādi 5.5: These two are one and the same identity. They differ only in form. Lord Balarāma is the first bodily expansion of Kṛṣṇa, and He assists in Lord Kṛṣṇa’s transcendental pastimes.

CC Ādi 5.6: That original Lord Kṛṣṇa appeared in Navadvīpa as Lord Caitanya, and Balarāma appeared with Him as Lord Nityānanda

Lord Balarama’s beauty is enhanced by the earrings touching His cheeks. His face is decorated with tilak made from musk, and His broad chest is ornamented with a garland of gunja. Balarama’s voice is very grave, and His arms are very long, touching His thighs.

The splendour of Lord Balarama’s form eclipses many millions of glistening rising moons, and the slightest scent of His boundless strength is sufficient to destroy many armies of demons. Although He knows the supernatural power of His younger brother, Krishna, still, out of love for Him, He never leaves Krishna alone in the forest even for a moment. Balarama is Sri Krishna’s dearest friend and is a great reservoir of many kinds of pastimes.
 

Some Specific Pastimes of Lord Balarama

1. Balarama slays demon Dhenukasura

2. Balarama kills Pralambasura

3. Balarama was always glorified by Krishna

4. Yamuna Devi was chastised when she did not give way for Balarama

5. Kauravas chastised when they had captured Samba

6. Balarama marries Revati

7. Balarama became angry at Bhima for killing Duryodhana by trickery but was appeased by Sri Krishna

8.Killing of Romaharshana for not representing Vyasdev properly.
 

Mercy of Lord Balarama

Lord Balarama exemplifies the service attitude to Krishna. His only mission is to please Krishna by rendering service to Him, whether it is in the creation of the material worlds, maintaining the spiritual world or as His personal paraphernalia.
 

Visit us at https://www.mayapur.com/festivals/Jhula-Balarama-Purnima if you would like to offer special seva to Lord Balarama.
 

Hare Krishna

The auspicious festival of Jhulan Yatra will be celebrated from 23rd to 28th August, beginning on Ekādaśī and concluding on Balarāma Pūrṇimā. Celebrated during the sacred month of Śrāvaṇa, Jhulan Yatra commemorates the childhood pastimes of Śrī Śrī Rādhā-Kṛṣṇa as They joyfully swing beneath the flowering trees of Vṛndāvana, surrounded by Their beloved friends.

Following the instruction of Śrīla Prabhupāda, devotees in ISKCON observe this festival from Ekādaśī until Pūrṇimā. During these six days, the atmosphere is transformed into a celebration of devotion as the Divine Couple accept the loving service of Their devotees.

In Śrī Dhāma Māyāpur, Śrī Śrī Rādhā Mādhava are beautifully adorned each day with exquisite dresses, ornaments, and fragrant flower garlands before being seated upon an elaborately decorated swing. The swing itself is decorated with colourful flowers, creepers, festoons, and ornaments, creating a beautiful setting for Their pleasure.

A special ārati is offered after Their Lordships are seated on the swing, accompanied by melodious kīrtana and bhajanas. Devotees patiently wait in long queues for the opportunity to gently pull the flower rope and personally swing Śrī Śrī Rādhā Mādhava. Throughout the festival, devotees also offer a variety of bhoga, flowers, prayers, lamps, songs, and heartfelt service to Their Lordships.

Regarding this festival, Śrī Hari-bhakti-vilāsa explains:

"To please Śrī Hari, devotees hold numerous festivals on every occasion and continuously perform saṅkīrtana. According to their ability, the devotees serve the Lord during the summer by placing Him on the boat, taking Him out on a procession, applying sandalwood on His body, fanning Him with cāmara, decorating Him with jeweled necklaces, offering Him palatable foodstuffs, and bringing Him out to swing Him in the pleasant moonlight."

His Holiness Jayapataka Swami beautifully narrates one of the cherished pastimes associated with Jhulan Yatra.

During this time, Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī goes to visit Her parents, King Vṛṣabhānu Mahārāja and Queen Kīrtidā, at Varṣāṇā. Her brother, Śrīdāma, is sent to bring Her home. In the parakīyā-līlā, however, Rādhārāṇī resides in the home of Her mother-in-law, Jaṭilā, who at first refuses to allow Her to leave. Longing to see Her parents, Rādhārāṇī pleads with Jaṭilā, who finally relents after receiving the gifts sent by Vṛṣabhānu Mahārāja, although she cautions Her to beware of "that black-faced boy of Nandagrāma, Kṛṣṇa."

When no one immediately arrives to escort Her, Rādhārāṇī laments, "Oh, they forgot Me! They forgot Me!" Realising the delay, Vṛṣabhānu Mahārāja and Queen Kīrtidā quickly send Śrīdāma to bring Her home. Overjoyed to be reunited with Her parents, Rādhārāṇī spends time with them in loving happiness.

Meanwhile, Kṛṣṇa, disguised so that He would not be recognised, finds Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī alone upon a swing and begins pushing it vigorously. Startled, She cries out, "Kṛṣṇa! Kṛṣṇa! Save Me!" Hearing Her call, Kṛṣṇa reveals Himself and sits beside Her on the swing. Overwhelmed with relief, Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī embraces Him. His Holiness Jayapataka Swami explains that this moment is especially dear to Śrī Kṛṣṇa because Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī embraces Him naturally and willingly, without His having to devise any playful trick.

For this reason, Jhulan Yatra is cherished as a festival celebrating the loving exchanges between Śrī Śrī Rādhā and Kṛṣṇa. Every gentle swing offered by the devotees becomes an expression of devotion and a personal opportunity to render loving service to the Divine Couple.

Throughout the festival, the temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights. The roads leading to the Jhulan area are illuminated brilliantly, creating the atmosphere of a grand celebration in honour of Śrī Śrī Rādhā Mādhava. Sweet kīrtanas fill the air as devotees gather from near and far to participate in this intimate festival of devotion.

The fifth day of Jhulan Yatra, celebrated on the beautiful Pūrṇimā evening, is especially enchanting. Śrī Śrī Rādhā Mādhava are seated upon a magnificent jewelled swing surrounded by flowers, fruits, and flowering creepers. Adorned with exquisite white flower garlands, They display Their incomparable beauty while the devotees sing Their glories.

Śrīla Rūpa Gosvāmī describes the Divine Couple in *Śrī Nikunja-rahasya-stava* (16):

Kanaka-jalada-gatrau nila-shonabja-netrau mrigamada-vara-bhalau malati-kunda-malau tarala-taruna-veshau nila-pitambareshau smara nibhrita-nikunje radhika-krishnacandrau (1)

"O mind, exclusively meditate on Śrīmatī Rādhikā and Śrī Kṛṣṇacandra. Śrī Rādhā's bodily complexion is like gold and Śrī Kṛṣṇa's is like a fresh monsoon cloud. Her eyes are like blue lotus flowers and His are like red lotuses. Their foreheads are decorated with musk tilaka. Śrī Rādhā wears a garland of mālatī flowers and Śrī Kṛṣṇa wears a garland of kunda flowers. Wonderfully adorned in Their youthful beauty, Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī wears a blue dress while Śrī Kṛṣṇa wears yellow garments as They enjoy Their confidential pastimes within the secluded groves of Vṛndāvana."

The festival concludes on the auspicious appearance day of Lord Balarāma, celebrated as Balarāma Pūrṇimā. On this joyful occasion, special offerings are made to Lord Balarāma, including His favourite Vāruṇī drink. Devotees also celebrate with colourful festivities, the traditional breaking of clay pots filled with honey, jaggery, and sweets, and an evening procession of Śrī Śrī Rādhā Mādhava upon Their beautifully decorated palanquin. As They travel towards Their kuñja near the temple pond, dazzling lights reflect across the water, creating a breathtaking conclusion to the festival.

Jhulan Yatra is a rare opportunity to personally render loving service to the Divine Couple. By gently swinging Their Lordships, offering flowers, bhoga, kīrtana, prayers, and seva, devotees pray to receive the causeless mercy of Śrī Śrī Rādhā Mādhava and deepen their loving remembrance of the Lord.

Sponsor a Jhulan Yatra Seva

You are warmly invited to participate in the festival by sponsoring one of the special sevas offered to Their Lordships:

* Flower Abhiṣeka – ₹50,001
* Vāruṇī Offering for Lord Balarāma – ₹50,001
* Balarāma Haṇḍī – ₹30,001
* Fruit Decoration – ₹50,001

To sponsor a seva, please visit https://www.mayapur.com/festivals/Jhula-Balarama-Purnima or contact our Donor Services team:

Phone: +91 95934 00192
Email: [donorservices@mayapur.com]