Kalpa Vriksha of Kali Yuga

Fourth Delight

Sri Vyasa Raja Yati Sarvabhouma

56. The Pinnacle of Devotion to Krishna!

As Sri Vyasaraja grew older, he gradually became disinterested in political and worldly matters. He devoted most of his time to the daily and occasional rituals appropriate for an ascetic, teaching, giving discourses, worship, and spiritual guidance. The remaining time, he spent in silence, meditating on and praising the divine image of Lord Krishna in the lotus of his heart, often entering asamprajñata samadhi (a state of deep meditative absorption). During such moments, his face radiated an extraordinary divine brilliance that left everyone in awe.

When Sri Vyasaraja was immersed in devotional samadhi, the scholars and devotees blessed by his grace often observed a serene and miraculous glow around him. A luminous, moonlit radiance surrounded him, creating an aura of tranquility. Occasionally, a multi-colored halo appeared above his head, further enhancing his divine presence. Witnessing this, the learned disciples and devotees were overwhelmed with reverence and joy, feeling as though they were serving a great saint and a divine devotee who had descended from the heavenly realms. They would prostrate themselves before their meditative Guru with deep devotion, considering themselves fortunate to be in his service. Such occurrences were experienced by many, and they shared their divine experiences with each other, rejoicing in their spiritual ecstasy.

During this period, Purandara Dasa, Sri Kanaka Dasa, and other close disciples had gone on a pilgrimage to Tirupati, Kaginala, and other sacred sites. Despite being away for two to three months, they had not yet returned. Their absence left Vyasaraja feeling despondent, as they were not just close companions but also realized souls and exemplary devotees. Only those who have experienced separation from a beloved can understand the depth of such feelings.

Adding to this, Vyasaraja's health had begun to decline. At 93 years old, he was frail, worn out, and battling the effects of advanced age. However, despite his physical weakness, his face continued to radiate with divine brilliance and youthful vigor. Like a young man, he adhered to his daily routine of bathing, offering oblations, chanting, meditating, performing deity worship, teaching, giving discourses, and providing spiritual guidance to his disciples and devotees. His unwavering dedication and inner strength were sources of inspiration to all who came into his presence.

On the Purnima (full moon day) of the Phalgun Shukla month in the Vilambi Samvatsara, Vyasa Bhagavan performed his daily duties from morning till evening, including the evening lamp worship. For some reason, he seemed extraordinarily joyful and elated that day. With a serene and radiant mind, he expressed a desire to spend some time meditating on Lord Hari by the banks of the Tungabhadra River.

He summoned the monastery official and instructed him to prepare a palanquin. It was around 8 PM, and the official, worried about the Guru's health and perplexed by the unusual request, hesitantly said, “Mahaswami, your health is not well. Is it appropriate to go out at this time? Please forgive this servant for questioning.”

With a gentle smile, the Guru replied, “We will return after spending a short while in devotion to the Lord by the banks of the Tungabhadra. There is no need to worry. Let the palanquin be prepared.” The official, unable to argue further, prepared the palanquin and informed the Guru.

Vyasaraja, accompanied by his trusted gatekeeper, set out in the palanquin. Eight Brahmins, eager to serve the Guru, carried the palanquin toward the Tungabhadra River as instructed. At one point, the Guru disembarked from the palanquin and instructed the Brahmins to wait there until his return. He then proceeded toward the riverbank with the gatekeeper.

After walking some distance, Vyasaraja paused and surveyed the surroundings. It was a serene and tranquil place, adorned with trees laden with various fruits, lush flower gardens, and intertwining creepers. The area was resplendent with vibrant blossoms. The Tungabhadra River flowed gracefully, its gentle murmur adding a soothing melody to the atmosphere.

In the sky, the full moon of the Purnima night cast its cool rays, illuminating the surroundings with a gentle, silvery light. A soft breeze blew gently, carrying the sweet fragrance of flowers and creating a blissful ambiance. The serene and enchanting environment filled the heart with joy and peace.

Vyasa Munindra entered the Tungabhadra River and, after taking a dip, adorned himself with garments of krishnajina (deer skin) and saffron robes. He performed achamana (ritual sipping of water) and then walked to a majestic mango tree in a beautiful grove by the riverbank. The tree stood near a moonlit chandrashila platform (a stone altar).

The gatekeeper spread krishnajina and a black cloth on the platform and, after seeking the Guru’s permission, returned to the spot where the palanquin waited. Vyasaraja, now seated on the platform, surveyed the serene surroundings once more.

At that moment, the sight before Sri Vyasaraja reminded him of Vrindavana, the divine playground of Lord Krishna’s pastimes! The serene spot seemed like Vrindavana itself, with the Tungabhadra River appearing as the Yamuna, the trees and creepers resembling the gopis, and the melodious chirping of parrots and cuckoos evoking the enchanting sound of Krishna’s flute. The gentle swaying of flowering trees and vines in the moonlight, caressed by a soft breeze, appeared to him like the gopis dancing in the Rasa Lila.

A surge of devotion to Lord Krishna arose in the heart of the venerable Yati. Overwhelmed with divine bliss, Sri Vyasa Munindra seated himself in Padmasana (lotus posture) and meditated on Sri Murali Mohana (Krishna with the flute) within the lotus of his heart. Shortly, the divine image of Balagopala, radiant with extraordinary beauty and charm, appeared in his heart, smiling and offering him reassurance with an abhaya mudra (gesture of protection).

Sri Vyasaraja, enraptured by the vision of the Supreme Lord, worshiped him with great joy through mental offerings in his manasika puja (inner worship). As he offered the mantrapushpa (sacred flower offering), the vision of Krishna disappeared, leaving the Guru disheartened. He cried out in devotion:

"Krishna! Why do you withhold your mercy from your devotee? Have you run back to Vrindavana, reminded of its beauty? How divine is that sacred Vrindavana, constantly graced by your presence! How blessed are the gopas and gopis, who witnessed your playful pastimes! Am I not worthy of seeing that auspicious sight even once, O Lord? Why have you disappeared, O Govinda? Show your compassion!"

To his astonishment, as he sat in deep meditation, a flash of light appeared in his heart like a divine revelation. In that brilliance, he had a direct vision of Vrindavana. Overwhelmed with devotion, Sri Vyasa Bhagavan, with eyes full of wonder and delight, witnessed the beauty of Vrindavana, the sacred land of Krishna’s pastimes.

What he saw in his heart was indescribably enchanting. Trees, heavy with fruit, bent gracefully under their weight; the joyful songs of parrots and cuckoos, along with the humming of bees, seemed like praises offered to Krishna. He saw bees circling above Krishna, showering flowers as though in worship. Peacocks danced in ecstatic abandon, as if welcoming the son of Nanda with their vibrant plumage.

Hearing the divine melody of Krishna’s flute, the Yamuna River flowed gently, seemingly lost in bliss, her waves caressing the lotus flowers. Swans, immersed in Krishna’s meditation, rested serenely on the lotuses, like great sages absorbed in contemplation. The moonlight, radiant like the brilliance of Krishna’s toenails, filled the surroundings with purity and joy, while chakora birds, intoxicated by the sight, gazed at the moon in meditative ecstasy.

Vyasaraja saw countless gopis, cows, and calves, all captivated by Krishna’s enchanting beauty. The gopis, with unblinking eyes, feasted on the divine sight of the young Krishna as he played among them. They were so mesmerized by Krishna’s beauty that they forgot their calves, while the cows gazed lovingly at Krishna, overcome with motherly affection.

The Guru’s body thrilled with joy as he beheld young cowherd boys holding up lotus leaves like parasols to shield Krishna. They fanned him with their hands, and their hearts, immersed in devotion, made them feel like liberated souls, experiencing the supreme bliss of Krishna’s presence. Witnessing this divine scene, Sri Vyasaraja lost all sense of self, fully absorbed in the transcendental joy of Vrindavana and Krishna’s glorious pastimes.

There, another vision unfolded! Balagopala was approaching, playing his flute. Hearing the enchanting melody of his murali (flute), people rushed out of their homes, singing praises such as "Jaya Jaya Shriman Narayana, Padmanabha, Shri Krishna, Parak!" The women of the community, as graceful as Goddess Lakshmi, carried lamps in their hands, offering aarti to Madhava, their eyes drinking in his captivating beauty. Witnessing this divine sight, the Guru felt truly blessed.

In the homes of Vraja, women churned curd while singing praises such as "Indiresha, Brahmendra-adivandita, Shri Krishna," their melodies resonating like the sacred chants of the Vedas. They prepared butter and joyfully offered it to Shri Balagopala, engaging with him in playful interactions. These fortunate gopis, radiant with beauty, seemed to embody pure devotion.

Sri Vyasaraja was completely absorbed in this wondrous vision. The waves of Krishna-bhakti surged in his heart, reaching their peak, and suddenly, all the visions vanished. Awakening from his trance, the Guru exclaimed,

"Ah, Vrindavana! Yamuna! The gopas, gopis, cows, and calves! The flower gardens, bowers, creepers, and vines! What great merit must they have to enjoy the eternal presence, touch, and conversation of the Supreme Being? Truly, they are blessed beyond measure. And yet, I have not been granted that fortune! Krishna, Krishna! Why are you so merciless to this humble servant, O Ocean of Compassion? O Lord! If you grant me another birth, let it at least be as one of Vrindavana's trees, vines, or peacocks! Have mercy, Gopala! Bless me!"

Lost in intense devotion, Sri Vyasaraja reached the pinnacle of his Krishna-bhakti. Tears of joy streamed down his face as he offered heartfelt prayers. Overwhelmed with emotion, a new devotional song spontaneously flowed from his lips:

Raga: Gaulipantu | Tala: Ata Tala

“O Hari! Grant me a glimpse of you, even once!

O Vrindavana's Lord, bless me with your grace!

May I be born as the trees and vines in Vrindavana,

Bowing with fruits, praised by the parrots and cuckoos,

And serenaded by the humming bees who sing your glories,

Showering flowers as if in worship.

May I hear the melody of your flute,

And in the ecstasy of joy, close my eyes like the swans

Resting silently on lotus flowers, meditating like sages.

May I be born as the chakora birds,

Savoring the flawless moonlight that shines

From your radiant toenails, forgetting everything in bliss.

May I be born as the cows and calves of Vrindavana,

Gazing at you with unblinking eyes, lost in your beauty,

Forgetting everything in your divine presence.

May I be born as a cowherd boy,

Waving lotus leaves as fans,

Fanning you lovingly, serving you like a liberated soul,

And relishing the joy of being near you.

Hearing the sound of your flute,

I will come before you, praising you,

“O Lotus-Navel Krishna, my refuge!”

May I be born as a gopi of Vrindavana,

Lifting the lamp of aarti in my hands like Lakshmi,

Drinking in your divine beauty and savoring the joy of serving you.

May I churn butter, singing praises to you,

“O Lord of Lakshmi, worshiped by Brahma and Indra!”

And offer you that butter, O Krishna, just as the gopis did in Vraja!”

As the Guru sang, his voice resonated with pure devotion, reaching the heights of spiritual ecstasy. His heart overflowed with love for Krishna, and his tears continued to flow. Those who heard him could feel the depth of his devotion and were deeply moved by the divinely inspired hymn.

Ah! What a graceful and divine sentiment! How profound and mature is the devotion of our Vyasa Munis! The saint, deeply absorbed in Krishna consciousness, once again prayed to Sri Nandagopala:

"O Krishna, Mukunda, Murari! Will that Vrindavana of Dwapara Yuga return again? How long must I wait until then? Oh Lord, if you grant me another birth, at least bless me to be reborn as something connected to you—a true Vaishnava, immersed in your service. Surely, you must show mercy, won't you?"

Raga: Regupti | Tala: Ata Tala

“Grant me the sight of you, O Krishna, in every birth!

By your grace, O Krishna, my eternal companion,

May I bear the sacred urdhva pundra (Vaishnava markings) on my forehead

And a tulasi garland adorning my neck.

May I witness the conch and discus on your arms,

And live as a Vaishnava, ever immersed in your remembrance and grace.

|| Anupallavi: ||

O Hari, Supreme Lord! Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Brahma, and Indra serve you.

The philosophy of your servant Vayu proclaims the truth

Of the fivefold differences and your supremacy.

May I remain humble before all the great scholars,

Cherishing the Guru's supreme status among holy teachers.

Grant me unwavering, pure devotion to you, O Krishna,

The bestower of liberation!”

With such heartfelt prayers, Sri Vyasa Munindra once again entered a state of deep meditation. In his heart's sanctum, a vision of Sri Balakrishna appeared, smiling radiantly. The Lord addressed him:

"Devoted King of Bhaktas! You have bound me with your love. You have prayed to be born as the trees, creepers, birds, and animals of Vrindavana—or even as the gopas and gopis. My child, I have granted you blessings that no one else in the world has received. You are truly unmatched in all three worlds!

Do you remember the boon you once asked for—to serve me across three lifetimes? In two lifetimes, you have already served me in ways beyond ordinary reach, becoming my foremost devotee. Now, as you have prayed, you will not only be a Vaishnava but will also take birth as a supreme Vaishnava, a spiritual emperor who will establish my truth, compose divine scriptures, uplift scholars and commoners alike, and work for the welfare of the downtrodden and the entire world.

After that incarnation, you will merge with your original form and forever reside in my presence, experiencing eternal bliss. However, that next divine mission requires preparation, and the time for your current incarnation must conclude. There are still decades before the next phase. The setting, environment, and circumstances for your next birth must be arranged. Your work in this life is complete, and now, your departure from this world is inevitable. May auspiciousness be upon you!”

With these words, Krishna smiled sweetly, extending his little hands and calling out, "Come, come," before disappearing from sight.

When Vyasa Raja awoke from his meditation, his body shivered with divine ecstasy. A surge of energy and radiance filled him, and tears of bliss flowed from his eyes. Filled with humility and devotion, he silently prayed, "O Lord, may your command be fulfilled." His mind was now completely at peace and overflowing with joy.

The Guru then rose with a radiant face, returned to the palanquin, and was carried back to the Vishwapavana Matha. There, with a serene expression, he rested, his heart full of divine contentment and readiness for the next chapter of his eternal service to Lord Krishna.