Krishna-bhavanamrita’s narration 1

Examining Krishna's talents in Kandarpa pūjā

Unlike Chandravali who submissively responds to Krishna's romantic desires, Radha Ṭhākurāṇī is a strong-minded vāma-nayika. Thus, when Krishna makes advances she becomes rebellious! And when supported by Lalita, Radha's stamina to rebuff Krishna becomes almost insurmountable. Because Radha knows him as Bahu-vallabha (having many girlfriends)-she plays hard to get-and this increases Krishna's fascination far beyond expectation. Hence, amongst his many consorts, Radha remains intriguing and rare. But sometimes Radha's vāma-tendency goes too far, and Krishna laments.

Although Krishna-bhavanamrita's narration weaves in and around Govinda-lilamrita's dialogue, now Śrīla Vishwanath will break away from his tight reign on it to introduce a fascinating new līlā. This concerns Krishna's frustration with Radha's vama tendency. Herein, Catura-cudamani masterminds a plan meant to outwit Radha and her obstinate sakhis. The story runs as follows:

Continuing from Radha Krishna previous love-skirmish, Vishakha suggests that Kundalata go with Krishna to examine his talents in Kandarpa puja. Then, if Krishna passes the test, Radha can accept him as her purohit (acharya) in Anāṅga-sadhana. But Krishna says, "Radhe! What's the need for Kundalata? Your own sakhi, Vishakha, is highly qualified in Anāṅga-'s dharma. So let her test the mantras that I learned from Vatsyana Muni's Kama-shastra Paddhati. But remember, shastra warns that we must go to a secluded place, otherwise the mantras lose their potency."

Kundalata says, "Hey Radhe! Krishna's right, why don't you allow Vishakha to go ahead with the test."
Radha answers with a sigh (covering her smile): "Hey sakhi Vishakhe! Kundalata's determination seems fixed, and she's not giving in -so why don't you go to a secluded place and examine Krishna's mantras." (Hearing Radha's statements all the sakhis laugh!)

But Vishakha answers, "Hey Radhe! Krishna is 'your' protector; could there be anyone else? And you are separated only because you conceal the fact. Hay, hay! With every step Krishna's lifespan is decreasing. Therefore, stop wasting time and quickly accept your protector who stands before you! Thus, your happiness will also increase.

Hey Rangini Radhe! We're here to assist you; although, by your disagreeable behavior Krishna has only suffered. Hey sakhi! What's the need of our help? Now just enlighten the Punnaga tree by showering your Karunāmrita!" 

Back to Chapter 9 - Govinda līlāmṛta