ISKCON THANE SOUVENIR 2022

|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||

























































































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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||


Dedication




tisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura asked age human relations, Srila Prabhupada
Srila Prabhupada to invest his time and coined the International Society for
energy in spreading ‘Gaura Vani’ to the Krishna Consciousness, where people
western world. from all backgrounds could converge to
With a free ticket in hand, provided partake in spiritual studies, discourses
by Srimati Morarji, Srila Prabhupada and ecstatic kirtans, followed by sumptu-
boarded the cargo ship ‘Jaladuta’ in ous prasadam, and thereby come out of
1965 to embark on a journey to the the mental malaise that afflict mankind
United States of America to carry out his due to unlimited material desires.
spiritual master’s mission of disseminat- Setting up 108 temples all over the
ing the Vedic knowledge to the English globe, Srila Prabhupada created magic all
speaking world. With just seven dollars the way. His spiritual charisma made in-
in his pocket and with heart attacks and numerable people of diverse backgrounds
sea sickness pounding his delicate, senile take up a dharmic and theistic way of life.
frame, Srila Prabhupada managed to cross He received an overwhelming response
t all began when a sixty-nine year the turbulent seas, and land in Boston, a wherever he went.
old, short statured monk relegated his land totally alien to him. Born as Abhay Charan De on Septem-
Iretirement age at the backyards of his- Highlighting the congregational chant- ber1, 1896 in Calcutta, HDG A.C. Bhak-
tory, and started afresh with renewed zeal ing of the holy name of God, Sri Krishna, tivedanta Swami Prabhupada, Founder-
and determination, to cross the oceanic given by Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu*, Srila Acharya of the International Society
waters and rewrite history following the Prabhupada aided people in rebuilding for Krishna Consciousness, blossomed
orders of his spiritual master. This monk their lost relationship with the Lord. Not in a devotional atmosphere right from
was none other than HDG A.C. Bhaktive- only that, he paved the way for people to his nascent years. His devotee parents
danta Swami Prabhupada. eventually catch the super expressway Gour Mohan De and Rajani Devi deftly
Realizing his latent spiritual potency, back to the spiritual world after gradual instilled the spirit of devotion in him.
his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisid- purification of their hearts. A householder, who trotted the four
dhanta Saraswati Thakura wanted to tap Starting in a humble way from New ashrams of Varnashram dharma dili-
it to spread ‘Gaura Vani’ or the message York’s 26 Second Avenue, he laid the gently, exhibiting through his personal
of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu far and foundation stone of the International So- life that a householder can also rise to the
wide. Crossing all geographical barriers of ciety for Krishna Consciousness, thereby, zenith of spiritual success through devo-
land and deep oceans, Srila Prabhupada fulfilling his spiritual master Srila Bhak- tional life chartered through the pages of
fulfilled Mahaprabhu’s predictions made tisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura’s dream guru, sadhu and shastra, Srila Prabhu-
some five hundred years ago. Mahaprab- of taking the message of Lord Caitanya to pada brought out the essence of Santana
hu predicted: every nook and corner of the world. After Dharma to the fore, without beating about
that, there was no looking back. the bush or digressing to false concepts.
prithivite ache yata nagaradi grama Frustrated with their materialistic lives Leaving behind volumes of spiritual
sarvatra pracara haibe mora nama and the ongoing Vietnam War, the youth literature that would serve as a beacon of
of America in those days, had become light for spiritual path seekers in days to
“In every town and village, the chanting slaves to psychedelic drugs and various come, Srila Prabhupada retreated to the
of My name will be heard.” (Caitanya- forms of intoxicants and were heading for holy precincts of Vrindavana to prepare
bhagavata, Antya 4.126). disaster under their influence. It was Srila for the last phase of his life. Signing off
The meeting with his spiritual master Prabhupada who deftly managed to wean from his material body on November
in Kolkata in 1922 set the ball rolling for them away from the influence of these 14, 1977, Srila Prabhupada left behind a
this new spiritual movement, which was chemicals and lead them on to a higher rich, spiritual legacy, the reins of which
to take the world by storm. Though they taste of love of God from which there was have been taken up by his disciples and
met for the first time and were unknown no return. grand disciples in the true guru-shishya
to each other, yet surprisingly, Srila Bhak- Crossing all narrow barriers that dam- parampara.


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Modern Furnishings




for the Modern Living






























































bharat furnishings
Sun Magnetica Apartment, Louis Wadi, Off Eastern Express Highway,
Near Thane RTO, Thane West - 400601

|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||




Introduction










hen the sound bytes of To deliver the pious and to annihilate One who knows the transcendental
irreligion throttle the sane the miscreants, as well as to reestablish nature of My appearance and activities
Wvoices of religion, when the the principles of religion, I Myself does not, upon leaving the body, take
demons assume powerful forms and appear, millennium after millennium his birth again in this material world,
threaten the very existence of saintly (Bhagavad-gita 4.8). but attains My eternal abode, O Arjuna
people, when atrocities become the order (Bhagavad-gita 4.9).
of the day, when the virtuous get crushed The Lord does not have to descend to
by the wheels of immoral change, kill the demons, as He can kill them Understanding the Lord is not easy. He
Lord Krishna descends to annihilate demons even without descending to does not reveal Himself easily. The Lord
the demons, save the devotees and to this world. He is seated in everyone’s cannot be known or understood through
usher in a new era of righteousness and heart as the Paramatma. The primary dry mental speculation, deep rooted
dharma. Lord Krishna Himself mentions reason He descends is to please His austerities, or through scholarship. He
this in the Bhagavad-gita. devotees and to enact inconceivably can be known and understood only
sweet pastimes so that His devotees get through devotion and by His devotees.
yadā yadā hi dharmasya a glimpse of life in the spiritual world
glānir bhavati bhārata and are attracted to and aspire to enter bhaktya mam abhijanati yavan yas
abhyutthānam adharmasya the spiritual world to serve the Lord casmi tattvatah tato mam tattvato
́
̣
tadātmānam srjāmy aham eternally. jnatva visate tad-anantaram
Whenever and wherever there is a decline Though His Nara-lila appears like the One can understand Me as I am, as the
in religious practice, O descendant activity of a human being, the Lord’s Supreme Personality of Godhead, only
of Bharata, and a predominant rise of appearance and pastimes are not at by devotional service. And when one
irreligion - at that time I descend Myself all ordinary and mundane, but are is in full consciousness of Me by such
(Bhagavad-gita 4.7). transcendental. devotion, he can enter into the kingdom
of God (Bhagavad-gita 18.55).
paritrāṇāya sādhūnām ́ janma karma ca me divyam
̣
̣
́
vināśāya ca duskrtām evam yo vetti tattvatah ̣ And this is corroborated by Lord
́
́
dharma-samsthāpanārthāya tyaktvā deham punar janma Brahma in the Brahma Samhita
sambhavāmi yuge yuge naiti mām eti so ‘rjuna (Chapter 5.38):




















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premanjana-cchurita-bhakti-
vilochanena
santahsadaivahridayeshu vilokayanti
yam shyama-sundaram achintya-guna-
svarupam govindam adi-purusham tam
aham bhajami

I worship Govinda, the primeval
Lord, who is Shyamasundara, Krishna
Himself within conceivable innumerable
attributes, whom the pure devotees see
in their heart of hearts with the eyeof
devotion tinged with the salve of love.

So, when the Supreme Lord descends
for His Nara-lila, He descends with His
transcendental abode, paraphernalia,
His entourage and devotees. He does not
come alone. Everything about Him is
transcendental and unlike conditioned, This material nature, which is one ago, during Dwapar Yuga, in the
bonded souls, He is beyond the clutches of My energies, is working under My holy land of Vraja, and performed
of Maya, for He is Himself the master of direction, O son of Kunti, producing all wonderful transcendental childhood
Maya. moving and nonmoving beings. Under pastimes in Vraja. This Vrajathat is
its rule this manifestation is created and manifested in the district of Mathura is
mayadhyaksena prakrtih annihilated again and again (Bhagavad- non-different from GolokaVrindavana,
suyate sa-caracaram gita 9.10). the spiritual abode of the Lord.
hetunanena kaunteya GolokaVrindavana descended from the
jagad viparivartate The Lord descended some 5000 years spiritual world along with the Lord.
This is substantiated by Lord Brahma in
Brahma Samhita (Chapter 5.29):


chintamani prakara-sadmasu
kalpa-vriksha-laksavriteshu
surabhir abhipalayantam
lakshmi-sahasra-shata- sambhrama-
sevyamanam govindam
adi-purusham tam aham bhajami



I worship Govinda, the primeval Lord,
the first progenitor who is tending the
cows, yielding all desire, in abodes
built with spiritual gems, surrounded
by millions of purpose trees, always
served with great reverence and
affection by hundreds of thousands of
lakshmis or gopis.


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This is also mentioned in the Srimad
Bhagavatam.
̣
punyā bata vraja-bhuvo yad
̣
̣
̣
̣
́
̣
ayam nr-lińga gūdhah purāna-puruso
̣
̣
vana-citra-mālyah gāh pālayan
̣
̣
̣
saha-balah kvanayaḿś ca venum ́
vikrīdayāñcati giritra-ramārcitāńghrih ̣
How pious are the tracts of land in
Vraja, for there the primeval Personality
of Godhead, disguising Himself with
human traits, wanders about, enacting
His many pastimes! Adorned with
wonderfully variegated forest garlands,
He whose feet are worshiped by Lord
Śiva and goddess Ramā vibrates His flute
as He tends the cows in the company of
Balarāma (Srimad Bhagavatam 10.44.13).

So, Vraja or Vrajamandala where Lord
Krishna appeared and performed His Out of the 125 years that the Lord Krishna was always in Vrindavana.
childhood pastimes is very, special spent on earth, His childhood was spent Lord Shiva is very fond of Lord Krishna
& inconceivable, as is everything in Vraja and thereafter in Dwaraka. Lord and loves to take part in His pastimes.
connected with the Lord. It is a land Krishna’s childhood pastimes in Vraja Taking on the role of a guardian /
inundated with love (prema) and are the sweetest and most talked about, protector (ksetra-pala)of Lord Krishna’s
everything here, living and non-living, for during this period His relationship pastimes in Vraja, he protects the dhama.
resonates only with prema. As Prayag with the residents of Vraja were Vraja has many temples dedicated to
in Allahabad is the confluence of spiritual, that is, it was imbued with Lord Shiva, out of which Bhuteshvara
sacred rivers, similarly, Vrajadhama is unadulterated, selfless and pure love Mahadeva, Rangeshvara Mahadeva,
the confluence of loving exchanges in The Vrajavasi’s and the Lord’s existence Gokarna Mahadeva (all in Mathura),
different moods (shant, servitor, friend, revolved around each other! That is Kundeshvara Mahadeva, Bankhandi
parent and lover)between the Lord and why, it is often said that despite being Mahadeva (intersection of Loi-bazaar
His devotees. physically present in Dwaraka, Lord and Athkhamba), Gopishvara Mahadeva


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(Vamsivata) and Chakaleshvara of Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahaprabhu installed the deities carved out for Śrī
Mahadeva (Govardhana, near Manasi- in 1486 changed matters. With the Vajranabha, in beautiful temples.
ganga) are only some of them. intention of locating the places of Lord
Krishna’s transcendental pastimes, When Aurangzeb’s army attacked
As the Lord wound up His earthly Mahaprabhu visited Vrindavana in Vrindavana, they began desecrating
pastimes, most of Dwarka was engulfed 1515. Mahaprabhu, being Lord Krishna temples and people started hiding
by the sea and Vrindavana too was Himself, could pin point the places deities to safeguard them. The deities
lost and forgotten. When Lord Krishna of pastimes of the Lord. Taking a dip worshipped by the goswamis, Madan
left the earth planet, the grief of the in Vishram-ghata and taking darshan Mohanji, Govindaji and Gopinathji, and
Pandavas knew no bounds. Crowning of Lord Keshavadev in Krishna some others which were too large to be
Parikshit, the son of Abhimanyu Janmasthan, Mahaprabhu travelled from hidden were shifted to Jaipur. Later some
and Uttara as the Emperor, Maharaja forest to forest locating the sites of Lord deities were brought back to Vrindavana,
Yudhishthira along with his brothers Krishna’s pastimes. As He unearthed some continue to be worshipped in
departed for the Himalayas. Śrī and divulged each and every place of Jaipur. Only Madan Mohanji was shifted
Vajranabha, the great grandson of Lord pastime, His ecstasy peaked to a new from Jaipur to Karouli and He continues
Krishna ascended the throne of Mathura. high, with Vraja reciprocating with the to adorn that place.
same ecstasy; for everything in Vraja,
Śrī Vajranabha was unhappy that animate and inanimate, could feel Interestingly, the places of Lord
Mathura was deserted & he mentioned the presence of their Shyamasundara Krishna’s pastimes still exist as proof
as much to Parikshit Maharaj. They then in every breath of Mahaprabhu, who that everything that happened in that
consulted Shandilya Muni, who advised was Gaurasundara. Later, under era was real. So, it is erroneous to term
them to rebuild Mathura and the instructions and guidance from Lord Krishna’s pastimes as a myth or to
re-establish the places of pastimes of Mahaprabhu, the six goswamis, relegate it to the realm of the unreal!
Lord Krishna. Answering his sincere primarily Rupa and Sanatana, excavated
prayers, Lord Krishna revealed to Vrindavana and restored the places of Vrajamandala is a very extensive area,
him the places of His transcendental Lord Krishna’s pastimes and so in this journey through Vraja we
pastimes. Understanding from Uttara, will only go through some principal
Maharaj Parikshit’s mother, the physical locations of the Lord’s pastimes -
attributes of Lord Krishna, he Mathura, Vrindavana, Giriraj
shaped the three important Govardhan, Yamunaji and the
deities of Vraja, Madan Mohanji, Forests of Vrindavana. As we
Govindaji and Gopinathji. The wind our way through these
architect of the devatas, places, let us experience
Vishvakarma, helped with our mind and heart,
him accomplish this. Śrī the soul stirring sagas
Vajranabha then excavated that these great witnesses
many places in Vraja divulge.
and installed these
deities. Apart from these Vrindavana can be accessed
three deities, many other by rail, road. Mathura is the
deities were also established closest railway station.
by Śrī Vajranabha. Regarded as twin sacred
cities, Mathura-Vrindavana,
With the passage of time, the can easily be accessed by road.
memories of Vraja and the The closest airports are at
sites of Lord Krishna’s pastimes Delhi and Agra from where Mathura-
once again got camouflaged under the Vrindavana can then be reached by rail
foliage of dense forests. The advent or road.


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Vrindavan








































Yamuna at Vrindavan





rindavana is indeed the greatest vanam vrndavanam nama raja-hamsa keli kore
witness and participant in pasavyam nava-kananam tahe sobhe kanaka-kamala
VLord Krishna’s pastimes. The gopa-gopi-gavam sevyam
meaning of Vrindavana is explained by punyadri-trna-virudham Beautiful Vrindavana is filled with
Śrī Sanatana Goswami as “that place chintamani gems and many jewelled
which maintains, nourishes and protects Between Nandesvar and Mahavana palaces and temples. Many regal swans
everyone”. Bestowed with Nature’s is a place named Vrindavana. This play in the waters of the Yamuna, and in
grandeur, Vrindavana with her stunning place is very suitable because it is lush those waters the splendid golden lotus
natural beauty has the perfect ambience with grass, plants and creepers for the flowers grow.
and settings for the pleasure pastimes of cows and other animals. It has nice
Śrī Śrī Radha Krishna. She is, therefore, gardens and tall mountains and is full Being chintamani dhama,Vrindavana
a treasure trove of the heart melting tales of facilities for the happiness of all the is very sacred and pure and we have to
of the Lord’s pastimes. gopas and gopis and our animals. appreciate it through the eyes of guru-
sadhu-shastra. Otherwise, our material
Absolutely beyond compare, The great saint Narottama dasa eyes would only see its superficial,
Vrindavana’s praises fill the pages of Thakura sings: mundane nature. Vrindavana is
the scriptures. Advising Nanda Maharaj Krishna’s home, His own abode. When
to shift residence to Vrindavana, his Vrindabana ramya-sthana we enter Vrindavana we are entering
brother Śrī Upananda says in Srimad divya-cintamani-dhama ratana- Krishna’s home and our mood should
Bhagavatam (10.11.28): mandira manohara avrta kalindi-nire be full of humility, appreciation and


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servitude and not that of a camera- associate and Tulsidevi is Vrindadevi’s Radha and Krishna can enjoy.”
wielding, casual sightseeing tourist. partial expansion.
Some 5000 years ago after Lord Krishna
Akrura’s journey to Vrindavana is Vrindadevi has many responsibilities wrapped up His earthly pastimes, most
a lesson to us on how to approach in the eternal pastimes of Śrī Krishna, of Dwarka was engulfed by the sea
Vrindavana. Akrura awaited the darshan Srimati Radharani and Their devotees. & Vrindavana too was forgotten and
of Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama She is the perfect decorator, stage lost. Lord Krishna’s great grandson Śrī
in Vrindavana with eagerness and setter and director of the performing Vajranabha tried to revive the memory
a trembling heart. He was mentally stage of Vrindavana through which of the Lord by re-establishing the places
immersed in the remembrance of the Radha and Krishna derive pleasure. of His pastimes in Vraja. With the help
Lords by remembering Their names and She simply creates magic with her of Vishvakarma, the architect of the
pastimes. This made him eligible for the spellbound settings and decorations. devatas, he installed beautiful deities
Lord’s mercy. On beholding the creepers, As His Holliness Radhanath Swami of the Lord in Vraja and also one of
flowers and trees of the forest, he was says, “Vrinda devi is creating the Vrindadevi in Vrindavana. The three
gripped by spiritual ecstasy. When he seasons, the particular flowers and the main deities are Radha Govinda, Radha
saw Lord Krishna’s footprints in the trees with their particular fragrances Madan Mohan and Radha Gopinath.
sands, his joy knew no bounds. Rolling in Vrindavana. She is assembling the
in the dust, he was wetting the sands different pure hearted animals like However with the passage of time people
with tears streaming down his eyes. This peacocks and deer and arranging them forgot about the Lord & the sites of His
is the mood for approaching Vrindavana. to be present in various places at various pastime went into oblivion once again.
Only then can one get the grace of the times. Just for the pleasure of Śrī Śrī The advent of another incarnation of
Lord to see, understand and relish the Radha and Krishna and Gopas and Gopis Lord Krishna, Śrī Caitanya Mahaprabhu,
glories of Vrindavana. they are all ultimately acting under the in 1486 changed matters. With the
direction of Vrinda devi to orchestrate a intention of locating the places of Lord
Vrindadevi, a manifestation of wonderful stage performance by which Krishna’s transcendental pastimes,
Yogamaya and the presiding deity of
Vrajamandala, attended to and arranged
every little detail that was needed for the
pastimes of the Lord. Eternally residing
in Vrindavana, Vrindadevi continuously
serves, protects and nourishes the
beautiful forest called Vrindavana, the
seat of many pastimes of Lord Krishna
and Srimati Radharani. Vrindadevi is
the in-charge of kunja seva and everyone
here fulfils her wishes and obeys her
instructions. Vrindavana is named after
Vrindadevi.


Offering the land of Vrindavana at
the lotus feet of Srimati Radharani,
the daughter of King Vrishabhanu,
Vrindadevi has crowned Srimati
Radharani as the Queen of Vrindavana.
Thus, Srimati Radharani is also
known as Vrindavaneshwari. Being
an expansion of Srimati Radharani in
Goloka, Vrindadevi is Her intimate


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Mahaprabhu visited Vrindavana in 1515.
Taking a dip in Vishram-ghata and taking
darshan of Lord Keshavadev in Krishna
Janmasthan (in Mathura), Mahaprabhu
travelled from forest to forest locating
the sites of Lord Krishna’s pastimes.
Under the instructions and guidance
from Mahaprabhu, His disciples,
primarily Rupa Goswami & Sanatana
Goswami, excavated Vrindavana to
restore the places of Lord Krishna’s
pastimes & installed the deities carved
out for Śrī Vajranabha, in beautiful
temples.

Aurangzeb’s army attacked Vrindavana
and began desecrating temples and
people started hiding deities to safeguard
them. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of
Jaipur, decided to take the larger deities
of Radha Govinda, Radha Madan Mohan
Radha Gopinath and Vrindadevi to a
safe location in Jaipur. He took them via


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Radha-kunda and Kamyavana to the city fascinating, multicoloured backdrop. Of Vrindavana Town
of Amber near Jaipur. However, after late, Vrindavana’s skyline is gradually Vrindavana town is 162 Km to the south
reaching Kamyavana, Vrindadevi refused changing with its rustic mood being of Delhi, about 58 Km north of Agra and
to move from there, so the king was impregnated with concrete structures. at a motorable distance from Mathura,
forced to leave her there and proceed Yet, as you wind your way through which is just 14 Km away. Situated on
with the other deities to Jaipur. Being a Vrindavana, you will come across places the banks of the River Yamuna in the
permanent resident of Vraja, Vrindadevi brimming with the remembrance of Śrī forest of Vrindavana, it is also known
never leaves Vraja. While excavating Krishna, Srimati Radharani and Their as “The City of Temples”, being home
Vrindavana, Rupa Goswami rescued devotees, the Vrajavasis. Always elated, to more than 5000 temples. In bygone
the same deity of Vrindadevi from the twelve forests of Vrindavana have days, this same Vrindavana was abuzz
Brahma-kunda. In a temple next to the so much to say about the pastimes with transcendental activities, revolving
Radha Govinda temple, Rupa Goswami of the Lord; the temples, apart from around Lord Krishna’s pastimes.
installed the deity of Vrindadevi, where spreading their spiritual ambience Today it speaks through its temples.
she continues to reside. Another relate the interesting histories tagged With its narrow serpentine streets and
beautiful deity of Vrindadevi graces a with them; the ghatas and the vatas have lanes, Vrindavana has a typical small
temple in Vrinda-kunda, a kilometre experienced so much euphoria in the town atmosphere and the town always
from Nandagaon. Lord’s company and pastimes, that they presents a spiritual ambience.
stand in a pensive mood reminiscing;
Presenting a variegated ambience, and finally, till this day the sages and The most prominent temples of
Vrindavana is a beautiful blend of saints continue to derive immense Vrindavana are the ones built by the
Nature’s opulence peeping through pleasure and ecstasy in remembering six goswamis, the disciples of Lord
city life with Lord Krishna’s eternal and discussing the Lord’s pastimes in Śrī Caitanya Mahaprabhu; and their
pastimes hanging as the attractive, Vrindavana. contemporaries.












































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Śrī Radha Madan Mohan Temple:
Built by Ram Das Kapur, this temple near the Yamuna is a
magnificent piece of architecture. Built on the request of
Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s disciple, Śrī Sanatana Goswami,
this temple housed the original deity of Madan Mohan
(earlier known as Madan Gopal) which was installed by Śrī
Vajranabha. It was actually Advaita Acharya who discovered
this deity once again in Mahavana-Gokul. Worshipping the
deity under an ancient banyan (vata) tree, known as Advaita-
vata, he left the deity under the care of a Brahmana named
Purushottam Chaubey. Later on, under divine wishes, the
deity was handed over to Sanatana Goswami. To protect the
deity from Aurangzeb’s soldiers, Madan Mohan was moved
to Jaipur. He never returned to Vrindavana. Madan Mohan
presently resides in Karauli. Along with the replica of Lord
Madan Mohan, Srimati Radharani and Lalita Sakhi are also
worshipped in Vrindavana.
















































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Śrī Radha Raman Temple:
The temple of Radha Raman was constructed by Gopal Bhatta Goswami, one
of the six goswami disciples of Śrī Caitanya Mahaprabhu. From a shaligram
shila of Gopal Bhatta Goswami, Radha Raman manifested His deity form in
the Radha Raman Temple. This temple does not have the deity of Srimati
Radharani. This is one of the original vigrahas of Vrindavana that never left
Vrindavana, unlike the other deities. Gopal Bhatta Goswami’s samadhi is also
located in this temple.








Śrī Radha Govinda Temple: of Śrī Govinda was located, who then Śrī Govinda were taken to Jaipur.
Rupa Goswami, one of the six goswamis with the help of villagers excavated the Aurangzeb’s army managed to destroy
of Vrindavana, was grieving on his deity. A seven-story red-stone temple four stories of the Śrī Radha Govinda
inability to manifest the deity ofŚrī was built by Maharaja Mana Singh Temple. Today, while the original deity
Govinda, one of the original deities of Jaipur. As Aurangzeb’s army was of Śrī Govinda is worshipped in Jaipur,
installed by Lord Krishna’s grandson, desecrating temples of Vrindavana, many a pratibha vigaraha (replica) of the
Śrī Vajranabha in Vrindavana. One deities including original deity is worshipped in a temple
day a Vrajvasi boy led behind the main temple
Rupa Goswami to the that was desecrated by
spot where the deity Aurangzeb’s men.







































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Śrī Radha Damodar Temple:
Śrī Jiva Goswami, received the deities
of Śrī Radha Damodar from his spiritual
master, Srila Rupa Goswami. The temple
of Śrī Radha Damodar is situated in Seva-
kunj. Fearing the attack of Aurangzeb,
Śrī Radha Gopinath Temple the Radha Damodar deities were also
taken to a safe haven in Jaipur Today
replicas of the original Radha Damdaor,
deities of Radha Vrindavan Chandra,
Radha Madhav, Radha Chailachikan
and the Giriraj Charan Shila among
other deities grace the temple andare
worshipped here. The samadhis of Śrī
Jiva Goswami, Śrī Krishnadas Kaviraj
Goswami and Śrī Bhugarbha Goswami;
the bhajan kutir and samadhi of Srila
Rupa Goswami and the bhajan kutir of
Srila Prabhupada, the founder Acharya
of ISKCON, are situated within the
temple complex.

Śrī Radha Shyamasundara Temple:
In close proximity to the Śrī Radha
Damodar Temple, lies the temple of Śrī
Radha Shyamasundara. Established by
Śrī Radha Gopinath Temple: Śrī Shyamananda Pandit, the presiding
Śrī Vajrnabha had first installed the deity of Śrī deity of Śrī Shyamasunadar here
Gopinath in Vrindavana some 5000 years ago, manifested from Srimati Radharani’s
which over a period of time was concealed heart and was personally gifted to him
by dense forest. Paramananda Bhattacharya, during his service at Sevakunja. The
a great devotee of the Lord, discovered the samadhi of Śrī Shyamananda Pandit is
deity at Vamsivata. Madhu Pandit, a disciple of also located nearby and also happens
Gadadhar Pandit was given the responsibility to be the place where he found Srimati
Radharani’s anklet.
of looking after this deity. Initially, Śrī Gopinath
was worshiped at Vamsivata. Later on a temple Śrī Radha Gokulananda Temple:
was built for Him in Vrindavana, at walking Built by the Vaishnav scholar and poet,
distance from the Radha Govinda Temple. The Srila Viswanath Chakravarti Thakur,
temple housed the deities of Śrī Gopinath, Srimati the temple houses his worshipable
Radharani and Ananga Manjiri. Along with other deities Śrī Śrī Radha Gokulananda.The
deities, these deities too were moved to Jaipur deities Śrī Śrī Radha Vinod of Loknath
for safety. Replicas of the original deities are Goswami, the deity Śrī Vijaya Govinda
worshipped in the temple in Vrindavana. The of Baladeva Vidyabhusan, a Govardhan
samadhi of Madhu Pandit is situated close to the shila of Raghunath Das Goswami gifted
temple. by Lord Caitanya and a stone with the
thumb print of Lord Caitanya occupy the
sanctum sanctorum and are worshipped


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here. The samadhis of Śrī Lokanatha Goswami, Śrī Narottam Thakur
and Śrī Vishvanath Chakravarti Thakur are located in the temple
courtyard.


Some other prominent temples of Vrindavana are:
The Banke Bihari Mandir in Vrindavana is a much visited temple.
The beautiful deity in this temple was recovered by Haridas Swami
in Nidhuvan.

The Krishna Balaram Mandir at Raman Reti, founded by HDG
A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder Acharya
of ISKCON, has beautiful deities of Krishna and Balaram; Radha
Shyamasundar, and Gaur Nitai.


Prem Mandir is a glorious addition to the family of temples in
Vrindavana. The multicoloured focussing lights playing hide and
seek with the environment creates a magical effect here.

The Gopishvara Mahadeva Mandir is also a very ancient
temple. Lord Krishna’s grandson, Śrī Vajranabha established
the Shiva linga here.

Standing tall in Vrindavana are some interesting banyan Krishna Balaram Mandir
trees (vatas), which stand in a sombre mood recalling
the pastimes they have experienced with the Lord. Being
kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling) trees, they fulfil spiritual
desires. Advaitavata, Shringarvata and
Vamsivata are among the more
prominent ones.


































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Forests of Vrindavana the forest on fire. Soon the fire turned
Vrindavana is ornamented with twelve into an inferno. Lord Krishna simply
beautiful forests (upavanas) - all swallowed the fire and saved everyone.
participants in Lord Krishna’s pastimes. Since then the pond is named Davanala-
kunda. Kevarivana surrounds Davanala-
1) Viharavana: Surrounding the area kunda.
between Radha-kupa and Krishna
Balaram Mandir, Viharavana stands 7) Nidhuvana (Nidhivana): Vrindavana’s
tall and proud, having provided the famous Śrī Banke Bihari was found
meeting place for the Lord and Srimati by Swami Haridas in Nidhuvana. A
Radharani. favourite spot for the pastimes of the
Lord, Srimati Radharani and Their dear
2) Kaliyadamanavana: Surrounding devotees, this vana is considered to be
Kaliya-ghata and filled with many very sacred. It is next to Śrī Śrī Radha
kadamba trees, this vana is the place Ramana Temple.
where the Keli kadamba tree stands
from which Lord Krishna jumped into 8) Atalavana: After savouring the
River Yamuna and subdued Kalia, tasty preparations sent by the wives of
Gopishvara Mahadeva Mandir the multi-hooded serpent. The bhajan the Brahmana, Lord Krishna and His
kutir of Śrī Bilvamangal Thakur and friends were completely satiated. While
Kunjas are beautiful garden groves Śrī Prabodhananda Saraswati are also passing through this vana Lord Krishna
bearing fruits and flowers and present a located here. exclaimed that He could not move (atala)
kaleidoscope of natural beauty.Creating any further. Hence, the forest came to
beautiful settings for the pastimes of the 3) Gocaranavana: Surrounding Go- be known as Atalavana. You can visit
Lord, they acted as ambience enhancers ghata and Varaha-ghata and to the west Atalbihariji and Atal-tirtha here.
for His pastimes. Under the patronage of Viharavana, this vana is home to Śrī
and directions of Vrindadevi, the kunjas Varahadev Mandir and Gautam Muni’s 9) Jhulanavana: Occupying the area
were maintained by the cowherd boys ashram. between Pani-ghata Village and Ragaji
and girls. Vrindavana is full of many Bhaga Garden, this vana embedded
such kunjas, which speak wonderful 4) Nikunjavana: Also known as Seva- with the memory of the Divine
tales about the pastimes of Śrī Śrī Radha kunja, this is the seat of the Divine Couple’s swing pastimes, is always in a
Krishna and Their Vrajavasi devotees. Couple’s eternal pastimes. Lalita-kunda, transcendental mood.
Kunjagali, Managali, Gumanagali and
While the places of pastimes in Danagali all are tucked in here. 10) Radhavana: Situated between Pani-
Vrindavana remind us of the pastimes ghata and 64 Samadhi Pitha, this is
of the Lord and His topmost devotees, 5) Gopalavana: Thinking of Gopal’s the area where the sakhis used to dress
the magnificent temples remind us of welfare after He performed the Srimati Radharani after her bath. Swami
our svarupa. Mahaprabhu has said, Kaliyadamana-lila, Nanda Maharaj gifted Haridas did his bhajan here.
̣
̣
̣
“jīvera ‘svarūpa’ haya — krsnera ‘nitya- the Brahmanas with cows at this place
dāsa” (Caitanya Charitamrita, Madhya, and hence the name. Nanda Maharaj 11) Papadavana: Wanting the gopis to
20.108-109, 1st line). In other words, and Mother Yasoda are worshipped have darshan of Adi Badrinath, Lord
the constitutional position of a soul in a temple here. This vana surrounds Krishna requested Adi Badrinath to
is to serve Śrī Śrī Radha Krishna. And Gopala-ghata. manifest in this vana. Surrounding Adi
these beautiful temples dotting the map Badri-ghata, this vana is filled with
of Vrindavana facilitate the service of 6) Kevarivana: After subduing Kaliya, transcendental memories.
the Divine Couple through the nine while Lord Krishna and His associates
processes of bhakti given by Prahlad were resting in the night by the side of 12) Gaharavana: Surrounding Pani-
Maharaj in the Srimad Bhagavatam. a pond in this vana, Kamsa’s men set ghata,this is the place from where acting


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upon the advice of Lord Krishna, the
gopis crossed Yamuna carrying large
amounts of bhoga for Durvasa Muni.
Fifty-six items of bhoga were offered to
Durvasa Muni in his ashram.

The 16th century incarnation of Lord
Krishna, Śrī Caitanya Mahaprabhu, has
revealed that the yuga dharma of the age
of Kali is the chanting of the holy names
of God. This finds further strength from
the words of Sukadev Goswami in the
Srimad-Bhagavatam (12.3.51):


kaler dosa-nidhe rajann
asti hy eko mahan gunah
kirtanad eva krsnasya
mukta-sangah param vrajet

My dear King, although Kali-yuga is
an ocean of faults, there is still one
good quality about this age: Simply
by chanting the Hare Krishna maha-
mantra, one can become free from
material bondage and be promoted to
the transcendental kingdom. And the
glorification of the holy names continues
to ornament the pages of the scriptures.
Narottama dasa Thakura, a great saint
sings:

golokera prema-dhana,
hari-nama-sankirtana

“The only remedy is hari-nama-
sankirtana, the chanting of the Hare
Krsna maha-mantra, which is imported
from the spiritual world, Goloka
Vrndavana. How unfortunate I am that I
have no attraction for this.”

Vrindavana is always resonating with
the holy names of Radha and Krishna.
Being a witness and participant in Lord
Krishna’s beautiful pastimes, Vrindavana
keeps reflecting on these pastimes and
mercifully allows us a glimpse when we
fervently wish for it.


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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||













































































Śrī Śrī Radha Shyamsundar, Vrindavan
www.iskconvrindavan.com









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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||






Giriraj Govardhan








iriraj Govardhan is considered paraphernalia, entourage and devotees long neck, Mukharavinda his mouth,
the topmost servitor of Śrī also came with Him to participate in Kusuma Sarovara his face and Punchari
GKrishna as he provides water, His pastimes. Giriraj Govardhan also the back and tail feathers.
grass, flowers, fruits, roots and minerals descended, from Lord Krishna’s abode
for the pleasure of Śrī Krishna, Śrī GolokaVrindavana in the spiritual Giriraj Govardhan is an important
Balarama, the cowherd boys and sky. Around 5000 years ago, Giriraj participant in the pastime where little
girls. Many of Lord Krishna and Lord Govardhan was about 3 km in height. Krishna held Govardhan aloft, on the
Balarama’s childhood pastimes were But today he is just 25m tall as a tip of the little finger of His left hand,
enacted on Giriraj Govardhan. The result of Pulastya Muni’s curse, which for seven days to protect the residents
Divine Couple – Śrī Krishna and Srimati caused Giriraj Govardhanto shrink by of Vraja and the cows. That’s how he got
Radharani were provided secluded the size of a sesame seed daily to reach the name Giridhari. What are the events
bowers, caves, lakes, water bodies, his present height and he continues that led to this pastime?
fruits, flowers and various minerals to shrink! Everything associated with
to enhance their pastimes. Giriraj Lord Krishna is artistic, picturesque Every year Vrajvasis used to conduct a
Govardhan situated in Govardhan town and brimming with beauty. Giriraj sacrifice to honour Indradev, the king
of Mathura is on the road link between Govardhan is no exception. Giriraj of heaven, as he controls the rain-
Mathura and Deeg. Govardhan has the shape of a peacock giving clouds. Rains are essential for
with his neck tucked into its belly: the Vrajvasis and people in general, to
When Lord Krishna descended Radha-kunda and Shyam-kunda are his sustain themselves and succeed in their
to earth, His transcendental abode, eyes, Dan-ghati and Manasi Ganga his endeavours in life. Krishna contradicted







































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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||














































this thought and suggested to His father
that instead of worshipping Indradev,
a sacrifice should be performed for the
pleasure of cows, brahmanas, Giriraj
Govardhan and Himself. The Vrajvasis
complied. This action enraged Indradev
and he summoned the Samvartaka
clouds, which are usually unleashed for
universal destruction, and instructed
them to destroy Vraja. The clouds,
obeying Indradev’s instruction, released
torrents of rain along with thunder and
lightning, hailstones and blasting winds
to torment people, animals and other
living beings. That was when Krishna
lifted Giriraj Govardhan to shelter the
Vrajvasis and their cows.


And the ever merciful Lord Krishna had
to give protection to His devotees, the









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Vrajavasis and their cattle for the Lord promises that in the Puja is performed a day after Diwali & is followed by the
Bhagavad-gita (9.31): Annakuta ceremony, when large amounts of food is offered to
Giriraj Govardhan and distributed as Prasad. Finally people
ksipram bhavati dharmatma circumambulate Govardhan (Govardhan parikrama). Pilgrims
sasvac-chantim nigacchati perform Govardhan parikrama in various ways: walking, doing
kaunteya pratijanihi prostrated obeisance or using some mode of transport. Often
na me bhaktah pranasyati sadhus perform parikrama by offering 108 obeisances in one
spot before moving on to the next.
He quickly becomes righteous and attains lasting peace. O son
of Kuntī, declare it boldly that My devotee never perishes. Traditionally, pilgrims begin the parikrama from Kusum
Sarovar, Srimati Radharani’s favourite spot for picking her
Beholding this spectacular, mystical sight, Indradeva’s pride flowers, and end the journey at the same place. However,
was shattered and ashamed of his behaviour he ordered the many also begin their parikrama from Manasi Ganga-kunda,
Samvartaka clouds to retreat and stop their devastating act. the place where Lord Krishna made Mother Ganga appear,
With the rains receding and the inclement weather improving, and then proceed for the darshan of Lord Harideva, through
Lord Krishna asked the Vrajavasis to return to their homes Radha-kunda village. Covering important tanks, shilas and
along with their belongings. Deeply repenting his rash and shrines such as Radha-kunda, Shyama-kunda, Dan-ghati,
arrogant action, Indradev accompanied by Surabhi, the Mukharavinda, Rinamochana-kunda, Kusuma Sarovara and
celestial cow, approached Lord Krishna seeking forgiveness. Punchari, the 21 kilometre long parikrama finally culminates
He performed an abhishek ceremony of the Lord and the at Mansi Ganga-kunda.
waters from the abhishek collected to form the Govinda-
kunda, which still exists.The Aparadha-kunda stands Circumambulation of Govardhan is a kind of worship, which
as witness to the atonement performed by Indradeva every pilgrim endeavours to perform to please Lord Krishna.
for offending Lord Krishna by sending the Samvartaka Giriraj Govardhan fascinates people first with his beauty and
clouds to destroy Vraja. then by the fact that he diminishes every day! A Govardhan
parikrama is indeed an enlivening, enriching and spiritual
This pastime of the Lord has become a major experience!
festival called Govardhan Puja, which is
celebrated not only in India but also in
many parts of the world. Govardhan
































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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||






Govardhan Parikrama

























































ovardhan, endowed with lush he attended to his daily rituals and worshipped Govardhan instead of him.
grass, beautiful flower- and fruit- Govardhan stayed there. Pulastya cursed Govardhan participated and enhanced
Gbearing trees, rich vegetation, that Govardhan would diminish daily, the pleasure of the childhood pastimes
water bodies and minerals; inhabited by by the size of a sesame seed. This has of Krishna and Balarama and also those
beautiful birds and animals, impressed come to pass - Govardhan who was a of Radha and Krishna.
Pulastya Muni, who wished to take him majestic mountain 3 km tall, is today
to his own ashram in Kasi. He sought only about 25 m in height. Circumambulating (Parikrama)
permission from Govardhan’s father, Govardhan, chanting the Holy Names
Dronachala and Govardhan agreed to Govardhan, situated about 14 km west or singing songs glorifying the Lord,
go on condition that if Pulastya put of Mathura, is the famous mountain that is done for spiritual purification. The
him down along the way he would Krishna held aloft on His little finger, to Govardhan Parikrama is about 21 km
not move from there. Pulastya Mauni protect the Vrajawasis from the wrath and covers many of Krishna’s pastime
placed Govardhan down in Vraja while of Indra, who was furious that they sites. Devotees generally walk bare feet


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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||






during the parikrama. Some offer a Govardhan is replete with stories of Madhavendra Puri, as ‘jati’ or ‘yati’
prostrated obeisance at each step and Krishna’s pastimes. To give you a brief means renunciant.
then move forward. Yet others perform glimpse of some:
108 or 1008 prostrated obseisances At Dana-ghati, Krishna and His friends To atone for his offence of unleashing
before moving forward. Pilgrims who are prevented Radharani and her friends the Samwartaka clouds on the
unable to walk the distance perform the who were carrying milk products, from Vrajawasis. Indra performed abhishek of
parikrama riding in a vehicle. passing through without paying toll. Krishna at Govind-kunda.
Even today toll must be paid if one
Traditionally, pilgrims begin the wants to pass through Dana-ghati. Surabhi-kunda is where Surabhi, the
parikrama from Kusum Sarovar, Srimati celestial cow, dwelt during Krishna’s
Radharani’s favourite spot for picking Bacha-gaon, also called Vatsavana, was manifest lila.
flowers, and end the journey at the same the place from where Brahma stole the
place. Others begin their parikrama calves and cowherd boys. After Krishna killed Aristasura, the
from Manasi Ganga-kunda, the place bull demon, Radharani insisted that
where Lord Krishna made Mother Ganga On being advised by Krishna, at He atone for the sin of having killed a
appear, and then proceed for the darshan Anyoragaon, the Vrajavasis worshipped member of the cow family by bathing in
of Lord Harideva, through Radha-kunda Govardhan. They offered himlarge every holy place in the world. Krishna
village. Whichever be the starting point, amounts of delicious food. Krishna created a kunda by striking the ground
the parikrama has to end at the same assumed His four-armed form and with His heel and summoned all the
spot for it to be considered complete. devoured all the offerings and asked for holy places to that spot. Thus, the
more saying, “Ano re, ano re!”. Hence kunda, known as Shyama-kund, got
Govardhan is in the shape of a peacock, the name of this plce. filled with sacred water and Krishna
sitting with its head tucked into its belly. bathed in it. Krishna began bragging
Mukharavinda is the face of Govardhan; Jatipura is the place where Śrī about His feat, inciting Radharani to
Radha-kunda & Shyama-kund are Nathjirevealed the presence of His deity have a kunda of Her own which would
considered the two eyes; Govardhan form to Śrī Madhavendra Puri. Śrī Nathji surpass Shyama-kund in all respects.
town is the stomach while Punchari was worshipped there a long time ago,
is the tail and the southern border of but He currently resides in Nathdwara, Radharani and her sakhis started
Govardhan. Rajasthan. Jatipura is named after Śrī digging a kunda with their bracelets but
no water appeared. Krishna offered the
water from His kunda, but Radharani
decided to fill the kunda with water
from the Manasi-ganga. However, on
Krishna’s command, the holy places
coaxed Radharanito fill up Herkunda
with water from Krishna’s kunda.
When She agreed, a current of water
flowed from Shyama-kunda to Radha-
kunda. These two kundas manifested at
midnight on the eight day of the dark
half of the month of Kartika, and is
known as Bahulastami.

The Govardhan Parikrama is physically
exhausting. But if performed in the
right spirit it satisfies the mind and stirs
the soul to aspire to tread the path of
devotional service!


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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||





GOVARDHAN


ECOVILLAGE







s you drive away from the city, a experience life as a fusion of Vedic tion techniques from the bhakti tradition.
mere 108 km from Mumbai, lies wisdom and modern science. You will Discover well-being as a way of life.
Aa world that moves to a different discover a spiritual ecology, that lets you
time. The Ecovillage itself lies near the live in harmony with the earth. In Vedic Pure Ayurveda Living
picturesque Kohoj Fort, in a region that is times, life was focused on service to the Experience a snapshot of the possibilities
one of the top ten biodiversity hotspots in world and its inhabitants – both human of reconnecting with yourself with our
the world. You can meet many a winged and animal – not their exploitation. It is daily programs. From Ayurvedic massages
wonder during your stay here. This is not this spirit of empathy that lies at the heart and unwinding at the pool to meditating
just a retreat, it is a living embodiment of this retreat. GEV is now an award- in nature, at Ecovillage life is truly lived
of a way of life. It is a place that inspires winning eco-community, that you can in the joyous moment.
an inner transformation allowing you to visit and experience a living example of
appreciate the gifts of the earth and what sustainable and harmonious living. Green Retreat
it means to live simply in keeping with Try your hand at organic farming or
spiritual and eco-friendly principles. If Get in touch with you inner Yogi discover the joys of giving with our
you’re not attending one of our retreats, Learn the secrets of Ashtanga and Hatha animal care program. If you’re a nature-
we encourage you to take advantage of the Yoga from highly trained masters. Get the lover then Govardhan Ecovillage is a
experience offered by our daily schedule. in-depth knowledge of healthy eating, perfect place to experience the joys and
At Govardhan Ecovillage you will self-care through holistic-living, & medita- wisdom of sustainable living.


DAILY SCHEDULE



» 12 pm – Check in » 7 to 9 pm – Dinner at yogashala
» 1 to 3pm – Lunch at yogashala
» 3 to 3:30pm – Video show at satsang bhavan Next day
» 3:30 to 4:15 pm- Talk show ( eco talk / wisdom talk / » 4:30 am – Mangal arti at Radhavrindavan behari temple
general talk) at satsang bhavan » 5:15am – Mangal arti at Madan mohan temple
» 4:15 to 4:45 pm – Yoga nidra at satsang bhavan » 5:30 to 7 am – Mantra meditation ( Japa session)
» 5 pm – Nature’s walk ( Eco & Vrindavan tour) starts from » 7am – Gurupuja and sringar darshan
satsang bhavan. » 7:45 to 8:45 am – 3 Options

Sites to visit – 1. Yoga and asana at satsang bhavan
» Goshala, Rain water harvesting ponds, water recharge 2. Yajna at yagnashala in vrindavan forest
zone, Animal shelter, Green Building, Organic farms, 3. Bhagvatam class in main temple
waste management ( SBT, pyrolysis), Biogas plant, Solar
plant, vrindavan biodiversity garden, 7 temples and » 8 to 10 am – Breakfast at yogashala
yamuna river etc. » 9:30 to 10 am- Yoganidra ( optional)
» 6:20 pm – Yamuna arti
» 6:30 to 7:30pm – Darshan & Kirtan @ Vrindavan Bihari Note – No electric cart for tour.
Temple and Madan Mohan Temple. Swimming costume is must for using swimming pool.



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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||





GOVARDHAN


ANNAKSHETRA






“Sharing Food, Spreading Love”


Goal of Annakshetra 8. Water Recycling: Water used in
1. Feeding hungry: Providing food kitchen is further recycled by soil
to all coming to Govardhan biotechnology (SBT) and used for
Annakshetra. Agriculture.


2. Improving Health: Providing 9. Empowering Women and Farmers:
nutritious food to all thus improving Free food for Women Empowerment
the overall health of the community and Farming seminars conducted by
around. rural development department of GEV.

3. Promoting Equality: Eradication of 10. Encouraging Education of children
Discrimination - between Caste , Creed, / youths: Children and youth staying in
Religion vicinity of Govardhan eco village get
encouraged to continue their education
4. Noble Service Medium: Opportunity as the major burden of food shortage is
for Rich to contribute for Poor / needy. taken care of.


5. Facilitating free Retreat: Free Food Total Plates Distributed
for poor Families and Students coming Daily Feeding Count 500
to GEV for retreat.
Weekly Feeding Count 3,500
6. Encouraging Vegetarianism: Monthly Feeding Count 15,000
Providing Sattvik Food (Mode of Yearly Feeding Count 75,000
goodness food) to all thus spreading
peace.
Donor Opportunities
7. Value Education for School Contact: Gauranga Das
childrens: Free food for School groups (Program Director, Annakshetra)
Phone & Whatsapp: 9930141797
coming for value education seminars Email: [email protected]
held by GEV.

















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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||





GOVARDHAN


AYURVEDA







yurveda or the Science of Life is ranges of Sahyadris, in the amazing led by its Medical Director, Dr, Sreejith
a holistic approach to healthcare landscape of Govardhan Ecovillage, Ayyappath and other experts Dr.
Athat helps people live long, Govardhan Ayurveda incorporates Srikath, Dr. Sudheesh and Dr. Rajashree
healthy and a well-balanced life. a holistic way of treating every and team of Ayurvedic staff. Govardhan
Nestled in the beautiful mountain individual based on prakruti analysis Ayurveda focuses on treating the root
cause of the ailment, i.e. the doshas,
Our packages and bringing a perfect harmony
between the mind, body and soul. The
Ayurveda Packages here are divided
into 4 categories keeping in mind the
necessity of the individual in terms of
the diseases he/she is suffering from.
With the best medical team on board
rooting from the traditional Kerala
Ayurvedic Therapies, Govardhan
Ayurveda is set to add a new element
to the way Ayurveda transforms the
individual as a whole.


Treatment days 12, 16, 23 or 30 Days







Dr. Beatrice Anobah
https://ecovillage.org.in/ayurveda/
CONTACT US: +91 9607938952
+91 9642720802
E-mail: [email protected]
Address: Galtare, P.O. Hamrapur,
Wada Taluka District Palghar – 421
303, India 90 km’s from Mumbai
Airport

Govardhan Ayurveda Outreach
consultation clinic at Gopal’s
Garden High School East Borivali,
National park
Every second Saturday and
fourth Saturday of the month from
3 pm to 6 pm.




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|| Shri Krishna Janmashtami 2022 ||








BHAKTIVEDANTA


VIDYAPITHA RESEARCH


CENTER





jnānam vijnāna-sahitam
“Knowledge and realized knowledge brought together”
Bhagavad Gītā 9.1


About BVRC
The Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha Research
Center (BVRC) is an academic initiative
of the International Society for Krishna
Consciousness (ISKCON) for facilitating
the study, research and application of an-
cient Indian philosophical traditions such
as Vaishnavism, as well as linked arts and
sciences aimed at the development of a
holistic and harmonious society.
The BVRC was duly affiliated to the
University of Mumbai in the subject of
Philosophy in June 2018. The BVRC’s
academic model places philosophy
and theology at the center just like the
whorl of a lotus. The petals are applied
fields such as Ethics & Value Education, Our Vision Course Offerings at BVRC
Emotions & Happiness Studies, Envi- To bring about a revitalization of the The BVRC offers following long and short
ronmental Studies, Entrepreneurship & value systems, lifestyle and culture term academic programs:
Leadership, Efficiency & Productivity etc. of the society by providing academic • PhD in Philosophy
as well as classical arts and disciplines education enriched with wisdom from • Diploma programs
such as Sangeet, Nrtya, Natya, Chitrakala, ancient Indian philosophical traditions • Certificate courses
Shilpakala, Yoga, Ayurveda, Vastu etc. and fortified with scientific rigor of • Workshops & Seminars
The BVRC began its operations in 2012 modern science. • Weekend and after work programs
and started a two year intensive study • Lecture series
course on ancient Indian philosophical Official Inauguration/ Affiliation to • Online courses.
literatures such as the Bhagavat Purana at Mumbai University Contact Us
ISKCON’s farm community - Govardhan The BVRC was officially inaugurated on
Email: [email protected]
Ecovillage in Palghar district of 1 st of September, 2018 by the Honorable Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha Research
Maharasthra. Courses run by the BVRC Education Minister of Maharashtra Center, Govardhan Ecovillage,
are already in great demand all over the Shri Vinod Tawde and His Holiness Galtare, Hamrapur (P.O), Wada
nation and it is running courses in eight Radhanath Swami Maharaj, Founder of (Taluka), Palghar (District) – 421303,
cities across India. the BVRC. Maharashtra, India


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GOVARDHAN


GOSHALA






Govardhan Ecovillage Goshala is home to 104 beautiful cows, bulls and their calves.


e believe in protecting,
honouring and loving
Wcows because they are
especially dear to Lord Krishna, they are
considered mothers to human society
and are an essential part of agriculture
and the economy.

DAILY ACTIVITIES
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF OUR COWS
The cows wake up between 4:30 am to
5:00 am. At that time, the Goshala team from the Goshala. As the doors open, COWS RETURN/COW BATHING
collects the cows’ first urine, which is the cows rush to the forest and happily At 10:30 AM, the cows return from
considered highly pure, holistic, and graze for nearly two and a half hours. grazing and feast on the freshly kept
incredibly useful for medicines. While they are away, the Goshala staff green grass. The bulls are then engaged
cleans the dung from the barn. Twice a for bullock carts, bull-driven water
week, the staff changes the start kept for pumps, and ploughing during the
cushioning on the mud flooring. They sowing season. Once a week, all the
give forage to the progenitor bulls who cows and bulls are bathed after they
are generally sedentary and like to stay come back.
in their stalls.
DAY REST
PREPARATIONS FOR FORAGE AND
SILAGE
Caretakers arrange for silage at this time
In addition to urine, devotees collect by soaking dry grass, jaggery, press cakes
cow dung, which is then taken for and other concentrative. This is soaked
composting or making cakes. Cow dung until 4:30 pm and is then offered in the
collecting happens throughout the day evening to all the cows and bulls. The
to keep the sitting area of the cows clean. caretakers fill all the troughs with green
After waking, the cows chew on forage grass before the cows come back from
kept in the troughs and drink water grazing.
available at various spots. Around 6:00
am, they are milked, and that sacred
milk is used for services of the Deities.
Our Mission:
OPEN GRAZING To make our cows happy and loved
At 8:00 AM, the cows are ready to go for by providing the highest protection,
open grazing assisted by two cowboys care and natural living.


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Neelam Patil: 9869646456

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GOVARDHAN SCHOOL


OF YOGA







VISION • Yoga Anubhuti
Facilitate a journey of inner awakening and transformation
based on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. As the Bhagavad
Gita explains, Lord Krishna is the original Yogeshwara or the
Master of Yoga and by becoming conscious of Him one can
revive one’s own inner spiritual nature.
To love and to serve one and all transcending the limits of
nationality, race, culture, gender and even species.

MISSION
• To delve deep into the ancient science of Yoga and present 29th Aug to 12th Sept 2019
its holistic outlook through various systematic courses An In-Depth Experience Of Yogic
• To inspire people to live a life based on the sacred teachings Lifestyle
of Lord Krishna from the Bhagavad gita
• To systematically train people to adopt a more natural and • Yoga Anubhav
satvik way of lifestyle 29th Aug to 4th Sept 2019
• To train people to become not just teachers of asanas, but 2nd Nov to 8th Nov 2019
instruments of positivity that can inspire and transform lives Experience The Benefits And Joy Of
• To inculcate a spirit of service among its members and Yoga
engage them in activities that benefits the society at large
• Women’s Wellness Workshop
Explore the wisdom of yoga, a 5000-year old Indian tradition. 8th Aug to 12th Aug 2019
Yoga is the process of reversing the ordinary outward flow of 2nd Oct to 6th Oct 2019
energy by transforming your body, mind and soul, forever. A Holistic Program To Balance Her
Health And Lifestyle
Courses Offered:
• Teachers Training Course • Yoga Wellness Retreat
29th Aug to 1st Sept 2019
Yoga Course For Busy Professionals

• Gita And Yoga
3rd Sept to 4th Sept 2019
7th Sept to 8th Sept 2019
A Unique Yoga Course Based
On Timeless Wisdom Of
Bhagvad Gita-As it is.

https://ecovillage.org.in/yoga/
29th Aug to 25th Sept 2019 [email protected]
2nd Nov to 29th Nov 2019 Venue- Galtare, P.O., Wada Taluka,
A 28 Day Scientifically Designed And Certified Lifestyle District Palghar -421303, India
Enhancement Yoga Course Phone : 8451868193, 8291901166, 9527252642


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PHYSIOTHERAPY

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GOVARDHAN


ECOVILLAGE ROOMS








ovardhan Ecovillage is a spiritual oasis that illustrates Deluxe
the principles of ‘Simple Living & High Thinking’ – Vrindavan Cottage
Gwhich is not just a principle but a way of life that has https://www.ecovillage.org.in/vrindavan/
to be adapted in the current fast moving world to connect with
our roots again to experience not just happiness but sheer Madhuvan villas
bliss. We believe in the concept of service and preserving our
mother earth for a better living for all.
The Ecovillage is situated amidst the lush green Sahyadri
mountain ranges in Wada district, just a two hour drive from
Mumbai. You can take a Yoga or Ayurveda course for a cause,
contributing to our numerous initiatives in tribal welfare,
women empowerment and supporting the community of kids
in Lady Northcote Hindu Orphanage within our campus. The
Ecovillage is equipped with large yoga studios, 94 eco stay
rooms, swimming pool, Kerala Ayurveda Center, beautiful
shelters for our cows and horses, and many more amenities
ensuring a comfortable stay.
Humbled to be recognized by UNWTO for promoting
sustainable tourism, Govardhan Ecovillage is a perfect place to
find inner peace.

Different categories of rooms and their details with picture -
Economy
Gokul Cottage
https://www.ecovillage.org.in/gokul/

























Gokul Cottage
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Sreenathji Banglow



https://www.ecovillage.org.in/madhuvan-cottages/ Our auditorium is an eco-friendly structure constructed with
the CSEB walls and floored with marble. It has a wooden
Barsana Cottage stage ideal for performing dramas and other cultural events
with two green rooms behind the stage. It’s also ideal for
presentations, lectures, workshops and corporate meetings.

Swimming Pool
















https://www.ecovillage.org.in/barsana/


Facilities
Auditorium

Our open-air, low-chlorine pool has been built, based on
French technology. The tranquillity of the pool offers a great
way to de-stress your body. It also features a shallow wading
pool for children.
There are separate swimming hours for male & female
guests.


Govardhan Ecovillage
Galtare, P.O. Hamrapur, Wada Taluka
District Palghar – 421303 Maharashtra, India
90km’s from Mumbai International Airport
Phone : +91 9167 204 666
Email: [email protected]


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VRINDAVAN FOREST

Forest of Grace





































urcharging the ecofriendly ambience
of Govardhan Ecovillage with spir-
Situal vibrations, a replica of the Lord
Ksna’s Vrindavan village has been created
here in an area of ten acres. Vrindavan
forest is the heart of the Govardhan Ecov-
illage. Hosting all 12 main forests, 9 major
temples, Yamuna River, the Govardhan
Hill and many diorama exhibits depict-
ing various pastimes of Lord Krishna,
Vrindavana forest gives a vibrant spiritual
experience to all the visitors.
At the Vrindavan forest in Govardhan
Ecovillage, there are guided tours Apart from getting peace from chaotic replica of Vrindavan temples. Kids loved
everyday and special retreats conducted city life, whoever visit this place gets re- the dioramas of Lord Krishna’s pastimes
on weekends, festivals and holidays. juvenated by serene atmosphere of Vrin- of killing various demons.” (Ramana
There is a grand Yamuna Aarati davan, and takes with them an enlivening Pingili on Google reviews)
ceremony every day at sunset. and blissful spiritual experience. “Nature always wears the colors of the
There are also aartis at six main tem- “Absolutely lovely place! Non different spirit. Here we can feel purity of atmos-
ples of Goswamis every day in evening, from visiting actual Vrindavan. Must phere, so beautiful place, every flower is
and throughout the year many devotional visit for people seeking a calm spiritual a soul blossoming in nature. Whenever
festivals are celebrated like Holi, Govard- experience in the midst of nature.” you go, no matter what the weather, place
han pooja, Boat festival, Kartik festival of (Sumeet Kamath on Google reviews) always brings its own sunshine.” ( Dn-
offering lamps and many more. “Loved the place and especially the yanesh Walwadkar on Google reviews).


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GOVARDHAN RURAL


DEVELOPMENT
















































































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CSR PARTNERS

















































































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100% AHIMSA


100 % SATVIK




































"A man is made by his beliefs.

As he believes, so he is."

- Shreemad Bhagvad Gita





Haribol believes in Ahimsa towards our cows, calves

and bulls, together, while promising life long cow
care and preservation through a series of initiatives

₹67

₹75



Lifelong Cow Natural Natural
Preservation Free-Grazing Insemination







Calf with Protected
Mother Cow Shelters for Bulls