Yudhishthira Maharaj said, "Oh MadhusUdana, Oh killer of the Madhu demon, what is the name of the Ekadasi that occurs during the dark fortnight (krishna paksha) of the month of Ashwin (September-October)? Please describe its glories to me."

The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Sri Krishna then replied, "This Holy day is called Indira Ekadasi. If a person fasts on this day, all his sins are eradicated and his forefathers who have fallen into hell are liberated. Oh best of kings, one who simply hears about this sacred Ekadasi achieves the great merit earned by performing a horse sacrifice.

In the Satya-yuga there lived a king named Indrasena, who was so powerful that he destroyed all his enemies. His kingdom was called Mahishmati-puri. The glorious and highly religious King Indrasena took good care of his subjects, and therefore he was rich in gold, grains, sons, and grandsons. He was greatly devoted to Lord Sri Vishnu as well. He especially enjoyed chanting My name, calling out 'Govinda! Govinda!'. In this way King Indrasena systematically dedicated himself to pure spiritual life and spent much time meditating on the Absolute Truth.

One day, as King Indrasena happily and peacefully presided over his assembly, the perfect orator, Sri Narada Muni, was seen descending. White as a conch, shining like the moon, like a jasmine flower, like a lightening bolt, Narada Muni descending from the sky. He is decorated with matted locks of reddish hair. The king offered Devarishi Narada, the saint among the devas (demigods), great respect by greeting him with joined palms, inviting him into the palace, offering him a comfortable seat, washing his feet, and speaking sweat words of welcome. Then Narada Muni said to Maharaj Indrasena, 'Oh king, are the seven limbs of your kingdom prospering?'

The seven limbs of a king's domain being; the king's well being himself, his ministers, his treasury, his military forces, his allies, the brahmanas, the sacrifices performed in his kingdom, and the needs of the king's subjects. 'Is your mind absorbed in thinking of how you can properly perform your occupational duty? Are you becoming more and more devoted and dedicated to the service of the Supreme Lord, Sri Vishnu?'

"The king replied, 'By your kind grace, Oh greatest of sages, everything is quite well. Today, just by your presence all the sacrifices in my kingdom are successful ! Please show me mercy and explain the reason for your kind visit here.'

"Sri Narada, the sage among the devas, then said, 'Oh lion among kings, listen to my astonishing words. When I descended from Brahmaloka to Yamaloka, Lord Yamaraja praised me very graciously and offered me an excellent seat. As I glorified his truthfulness and wonderful service to the Supreme Lord, I noticed your father in Yamaraja's assembly. Though he had been very religious, because he broke an Ekadasi fast prematurely, he had to go to the Yamaloka. Your father gave me a message for you. He said, "In Mahishmati lives a king named Indrasena. Please tell him about my situation here - that because of my past sinful deeds I have somehow been forced to reside in Yamaraja's kingdom. Please give him this message from me: 'Oh son, kindly observe the coming Indira Ekadasi and give much in charity so I can go upward to heaven.' "

Philosophically we can understand that every living entity is an individual, and individually everyone has to practice Krishna consciousness to traverse back to home, back to Godhead. As stated in Garuda Purana, someone who is suffering in hell cannot practice Krishna consciousness, because this requires some mental peace, which the reactionary tortures of hell make impossible. If a relative of a sinner suffering in hell gives some charity in the name of the sinner, he can leave hell and enter the heavenly planets. But if the sinner's relative observes this Ekadasi fast for his suffering kinsman, the kinsman goes directly to the spiritual world, as stated in this narration based on Brahma-vaivarta Puranam.

"Narada continued, 'Just to deliver this message, Oh king, have I come to you. You should help your father by observing the fast of Indira Ekadasi. By the merit you gain, your father will go to heaven.'  "King Indrasena asked, 'Oh great Naradji, please be merciful and tell me specifically how to observe a fast on Indira Ekadasi, and also tell me during what month and on what day it occurs.'

"Narada Muni replied, 'Oh king, please listen as I describe to you the full process of observing the Indira Ekadasi.

1. This Ekadasi occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin.  

2. On the Dashami tithi, the day before Ekadasi, rise early in the morning, take bath, and then do some service for God with full faith.  

3. At noon, bathe again in running water and then offer oblations to your forefathers with faith and devotion.  

4. Be sure not to eat more than once on this day and at night sleep on the floor.

5. "When you awaken on Ekadasii morning, cleanse your mouth and teeth thoroughly and then with deep devotion for the Lord take this sacred vow: 'Today I shall fast completely and give up all kinds of sense enjoyment. Oh lotus-eyed Supreme Personality of Godhead, Oh infallible one, please give me shelter at Your lotus feet."

6. At noon, stand before the sacred form of the Sri Shaligram Shila and worship Him faithfully, following all the rules and regulations; then offer oblations of ghee into the sacred fire, and tarpana directed to help your forefathers.

7. Next, feed qualified Brahmins (obviously non-grain prasadams) and offer them some charity according to your means.

8. Now take the food pindas you offered to your forefathers, smell it, and then offer it to a cow. Next, worship Lord Hrishikesha with incense and flowers, and finally, remain awake all night near the Deity of Lord Sri Keshava.

9. "Early in the morning of the next day, Dvadasi tithi, worship Sri Hari with great devotion and invite Brahmin devotees to a sumptuous feast.

10. Then feed you relatives, and finally take your meal in silence.

Oh king, if you strictly observe a fast on Indira Ekadasi in this way, with controlled senses, your father will surely be elevated to the abode of lord Vishnu.' After saying this, Devarishi Narada immediately disappeared from the scene to bless someone else with his presence.

"King Indrasena followed the great saint's instructions perfectly, observing the fast in the association of his relatives and servants. As he broke his fast on the Dvadasi tithi, flowers fell from the sky. The merit that Indrasena maharaj earned by observing this fast released his father from the kingdom of Yamaraja and caused him to attain a completely spiritual body. Indeed, Indrasena saw him rising to the abode of Lord Hari on the back of Garuda Vahan. Indrasena himself was able to rule his kingdom without any obstacles, and in time when he handed over the kingdom to his son, he also went to the spiritual realm of Vaikuntha.

"Oh Yudhishthira, these are the glories of the Indira Ekadasi, which occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin.

Whoever hears or reads this narration certainly enjoys life in this world, is freed of all reactions to his past sins, and at the time of death returns home, back to Godhead, where he lives eternally."


Thus ends the narration of the glories of Ashwin-krishna Ekadasii, or Indira Ekadasi, taken from the Brahma-vaivarta Purana.

Reference: ISKCON Desire Tree
 

Sri Chitra Sakhi Devi is one of the eight principal sakhis, the intimate companions of Srimati Radharani. She is known for her wonderfully variegated moods, gentle nature and compassionate heart, and for her many forms of expert service to the Divine Couple.

In Sri Mayapur, Chitra Sakhi Devi stands third on Madhava’s right. She was one of the final four Asta-sakhis to be installed in Mayapur in 1992.

Chitra Sakhi’s father is Chatura, her mother is Charchika, and her husband is Pithara. Her complexion is compared to the beautiful golden hue of saffron, and she wears garments that shine like radiant crystals.

Chitra Sakhi and Sri Krishna are very affectionate toward each other. She is deeply devoted to her seva, especially the preparation of lavanga-malas, garlands made with cloves and flowers, which she lovingly offers in the service of the Divine Couple.

Her kunja, or grove, is situated on the eastern side of Sri Radha Kunda. It is known as Padma-kinjalka, meaning lotus whorl, and is also called Chitranandada. The grove is decorated with wonderfully variegated colours, reflecting Chitra Sakhi’s own nature. She is especially expert in gardening and in gathering medicinal and useful herbs from the forest.

Chitra Sakhi is highly learned and possesses many remarkable skills. She can understand the hidden intentions of an author by reading between the lines of books and letters written in many different languages. She is also an expert in astrology, botany and animal husbandry.

She is a skilled gourmet who can recognize the tastes and ingredients of various preparations simply by looking at them. She can distinguish foods prepared with honey, milk and other ingredients and is especially expert at preparing various kinds of nectarean beverages.

Her favourite instrument is a vina, and her favourite tune is raga-samkata. Her nature is described as adhika-mrdvi, exceedingly soft and gentle. Her heart is filled with wonderfully variegated moods and overflowing with compassion.

Her maidservant is Rasa-manjari.

In Gaura-lila, Chitra Sakhi appears as Sri Govindananda.

As we come to the final Asta-sakhi appearance we are celebrating this year, we are reminded of the extraordinary variety of loving services offered to Sri Sri Radha and Krishna by Their eternal companions. Chitra Sakhi’s gentle nature, intelligence, affection and dedication to seva reveal another beautiful aspect of the loving service surrounding the Divine Couple.

kasmira-kanti-kamaniya-kalevarabham
su-snigdha-kaca-nicaya-prabha-caru-celam
sri-radhike! Tava manoratha-vastra-dane
citram vicitra-hrdayam sadayam prapadye

“Whose body glows with the attractive effulgence of saffron, whose lovely cloth is glossy like a host of radiant crystals; O Sri Radhike! Who offers You clothes according to Your desires, whose heart is filled with wonderfully variegated moods and overflowing with compassion — I bow to Chitra!”

September 26th - October 10th
The period from the full moon of Shukla Paksha Bhadrapada month (26th Sept) to the new moon day (10 Oct) of Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month is called Pitru Paksha. It is recommended in the sastras that in this period, one should offer Srardha (oblations) to the forefathers. One should also pray to the Lord to bestow a higher destination to his forefathers. One should also donate as per his capacity. If one cannot do yearly shraddha karma for all the ancestors it could be done once and for all in this auspicious month, on Mahalaya Amavasya day.

During this time, it is also considered to be very beneficial to read the eighth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita and hear Srimad Bhagavad Katha. Also, in Srimad Bhagavatam Krishna clearly mentions:

kuru tvaṁ preta-kṛtyāni
pituḥ pūtasya sarvaśaḥ
mad-aṅga-sparśanenāṅga
lokān yāsyati suprajāḥ

My dear child, your father has already been purified just by the touch of My body at the time of his death. Nonetheless, the duty of a son is to perform the śrāddha ritualistic ceremony after his father’s death so that his father may be promoted to a planetary system where he may become a good citizen and devotee. (SB 7.10.22)

Although the lord Himself states that by His touch, Hiranyakasipu is liberated. Still, the lord advises Prahlad to perform the Sraadha ceremony. This highlights the importance of performing Sraadha.

During this Pitru Paksha, a unique program of offering prayers on your behalf is organized by ISKCON Mayapur Online Puja Services.

We invite you to fill out the form and send us the names of your forefathers. We shall offer every day Narasmha Tulasi Puja with prayers for your forefathers.

If you wish, you can also donate for Annadana / Goseva / Gita dhana / Vastra dhana / Dham Seva. https://www.mayapur.com/donations/donationform/general

Any service offered in the holy dham earns 1000 times more benefit than performed elsewhere. Sri Mayapur dhama being situated on the banks of Ganga, makes it more suitable for offering Pitru Paksha Seva.

Remember, this year Pitru Paksha is from 26th September 2026 to 10th October 2026!

Register for Free for Pitruseva: Please watch out for donation page/link

For more details contact now:
+91 9593400192 only whatsapp message

In Māyāpur, Bhadra Purnima is not simply a single day of celebration or a festival that begins on the day itself. The preparations create an opportunity to gradually enter the mood of the occasion—to hear, become inspired, and prepare our hearts to carry the mercy and message of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam into many homes.

This period of preparation also brings together several significant occasions connected with great devotees and the spreading of Kṛṣṇa consciousness.

Viśvarūpa Mahotsava

Viśvarūpa Mahotsava commemorates the day when Viśvarūpa, the elder brother of Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, accepted the renounced order of life.

We hear from Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta:

After this, Jagannātha Miśra got a son of the name Viśvarūpa, who was most powerful and highly qualified because He was an incarnation of Baladeva.

Viśvarūpa was the elder brother of Gaurahari, Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu. When arrangements were being made for the marriage of Viśvarūpa, He took sannyāsa and left home. He took the sannyāsa name of Śaṅkarāraṇya. In 1431 Śakābda Era (A.D. 1509), He disappeared in Pāṇḍarapura, in the district of Sholapur. As an incarnation of Saṅkarṣaṇa, He is both the ingredient and immediate cause of the creation of this material world. He is nondifferent from Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, for the aṁśa and the aṁśī, or the part and the whole, are not different. As an incarnation of Saṅkarṣaṇa, Viśvarūpa belongs to the quadruple manifestation of catur-vyūha. In the Gaura-candrodaya it is said that Viśvarūpa, after His so-called demise, remained mixed within Śrī Nityānanda Prabhu.

— Caitanya-caritāmṛta, Ādi-līlā 13.74

The remembrance of Viśvarūpa's renunciation naturally brings our attention toward the importance of carrying forward the spiritual message received through our disciplic succession.

Bhadra Purnima and the Service of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam

Bhadra Purnima is a particularly auspicious occasion for serving Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. The Bhāgavatam itself declares:

“If on the full moon day of the month of Bhādra one places Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam on a golden throne and gives it as a gift, he will attain the supreme transcendental destination.”

— Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 12.13.13

The Varāha Purāṇa similarly describes the special nature of celebrating the appearance of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam:

Sri Narayana said to Brahma, O saintly brahmana! among all of my festivals, the celebration of the appearance of Srimad Bhagavatam is the best. I am subdued by persons who with devotion and love hear, decorate and worship Srimad Bhagavatam, with clothes, ornaments, flowers, incense and lamp during festivals, just as a chaste wife subdues her husband.

For this reason, Bhadra Purnima gives us a beautiful opportunity to consider how we can serve Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam.

We can gift a copy of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam to someone close to us. We can bring Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam into our own home. We can begin reading it, or make a simple commitment to read at least one verse from Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam every day.

There are many ways to serve the lotus feet of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and to participate in the benediction Kṛṣṇa has kindly made available to us.

Śrīla Sanātana Gosvāmī offers this beautiful prayer to Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam:

O Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, I offer respectful obeisances unto You. By reading you one attains transcendental bliss, for Your syllables rain pure love of God upon the reader. You are always to be served by everyone, for you are an incarnation of Krishna.

O Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, O my only friend, O my companion, O my teacher, O my great wealth, O my deliverer, O my good fortune, O my bliss, I offer respectful obeisances unto you.

O Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, O giver of saintliness to the unsaintly, O uplifter of the very fallen, please do not ever leave me. Please become manifested upon my heart and my throat, accompanied by pure love of Krishna.

— Kṛṣṇa-līlā-stava, verses 414–416

Śrīla Prabhupāda and the Mission of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam

As we prepare for Bhadra Purnima, we also remember Śrīla Prabhupāda's acceptance of the renounced order of life.

Śrīla Prabhupāda accepted sannyāsa from Śrī Śrīmad Bhaktiprajñāna Keśava Mahārāja on September 17, 1959, at Keśavajī Maṭha in Mathura.

Looking back on the circumstances surrounding his acceptance of sannyāsa, Śrīla Prabhupāda said:

“I was sitting alone in Vṛndāvana, writing. My Godbrother insisted to me, ‘Bhaktivedanta Prabhu, you must do it. Without accepting the renounced order of life, nobody can become a preacher.’ So he insisted. Not he insisted; practically my spiritual master insisted. He wanted me to become a preacher, so he forced me through this Godbrother: ‘You accept.’ So, unwillingly I accepted.”

— Śrīla Prabhupāda-līlāmṛta, Vol. 1, Chapter 9

At the sannyāsa ceremony, Abhay sat beside the elderly Sanātana and received the traditional sannyāsa-danda, saffron garments, tulasī neck beads and the sannyāsa-mantra. Keśava Mahārāja announced that Abhay would now be known as Bhaktivedanta Swami Mahārāja.

Although he had already given up family, home comforts and business years earlier, accepting sannyāsa carried a deeper significance. It represented the mandate he had required and the irrevocable commitment to preach.

It was now only a matter of time before Bhaktivedanta Swami would travel to the West, carrying out the desire of his spiritual master, Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura.

When asked, “Are you going to America?”, Śrīla Prabhupāda replied:

“No, Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is going to America—I am going with it.”

This statement beautifully captures the mood of the days leading up to Bhadra Purnima. Śrīla Prabhupāda did not simply travel to the West; he carried Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam with him. Through his dedication, its message reached homes and hearts around the world.

And we do not all have to become sannyāsīs to participate in this mission. Śrīla Prabhupāda explained:

“The Krishna consciousness movement is not that we are asking everyone to become a sannyāsī like me, and give up everything. No. That is not our program. You act as a brāhmaṇa, as a kṣatriya or a vaiśya or a śūdra. It doesn’t matter. But you try to satisfy Krishna. That is the program.”

— Śrīla Prabhupāda Lecture, Bombay, December 30, 1972

As the preparations for Bhadra Purnima continue in Māyāpur, we too can begin preparing—not simply for a festival, but for a mood of service.

The pandal has been set up. The yajña has been performed. The atmosphere is beginning to awaken.

Now we can prepare our own hearts.

We can hear Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam.

We can become inspired by its message.

We can bring it into our homes.

And we can help bring its mercy to someone else's home.

Bhadra Purnima is coming. Let us prepare not only to celebrate Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, but to become instruments for sharing its message.

All glories to Viśvarūpa Mahotsava.
All glories to Bhadra Purnima.
All glories to Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupāda.

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!