Experience of the Divine
By IAN Correspondent
HOUSTON: I get goosebumps thinking of the “Experience of the Divine”! Shri Guruji’s(Acharya Mridul Krishna Goswamiji) melodious bhajans, the musicians’ heart quenching music and the devotee’s trance-like devotional dancing definitely elevates one to a place where one can experience the presence of the Divine energy.
Twenty four hours a day, for seven days straight, breathing God’s name, singing his glory, dancing with the almighty and receiving his Prasad – how can you not experience the Divine!
On the first day of the kathha when Shri Bhagwat Bhagwanji came in the Pushpak Viman, holding his favorite devotee, Shri Guruji’s hand, covered with flowers, was a scene to be seen. It was as if we were all present in Shri Bhagwanji’s dham.
I have been listening to Shri Guruji’s kathha every year since 1998, but it never feels repetitious. Every year I feel new experiences, learn new things and get even more intoxicated with the kathha “Amrit” rus. Guruji’s kathha never seems to be regurgitated. It always feels as if we are listening to his own, personal experiences.
During the week of July 18 to July 24, Bhagwat kathha by Guruji, once again affirmed the experience of the Divine!
The exhilarating feelings of God’s presence overwhelmed every heart in kalash yatra. Beautiful VPSS haveli’s path of kalash yatra, covered with “lata pata” (vines) transported one into Vrandavan’s Nidhivan with yougal sarkar.
The power with which Shri Guruji kept our feelings glued to Shri Radhaji’s Prakatya Kathha is unexplainable! Gaoo Maata ornately decorated and standing next to God gave us assurance of Divine protection.
Shri Narsingh Bhagwan’s avatar emerging from the pillar seemed so real that it did not seem like a role was being played at all! I think God himself was there in disguise.
Finally the long awaited Lord Krishna’s janamdin arrived. Baby Krishna in the basket, hanging his feet out for “ Darshan” with Shri Sheshnaag’s Chaya was heavenly!
The celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth and the scene of Shri Nandbaba’s request to show her “Lala’s” face to Maa Yashoda was exhilarating. There are no words that can do justice to those experiences.
The Shri Giriraaj Pujan took place on the fifth day of the kathha. It was a grand event! Chappan Bhog seemed like chappan hazaar bhog (56000). The appearance of Shri Giriraaj ji (Shri Krishna) was absolutely breathtaking.
And wow, What can I say about my Lord Krishna’s wedding with Shri Rukmini ji. The gorgeous couple mesmerized everyone. Shri Krishna’s arrival – the sound of his horse’s footsteps raised everyone’s heartbeat to the extreme. Shri Rukminiji’s pooja, the dancing and Shri Krishna’s presence took the devotees beyond this world where there is only his bliss and nothing else!
Shri Sudaamaji’s charitra was played with such a conviction that it was not far from truth. Shri Sudaamaji and Shri Krishna’s milan was the sangam of the soul and the supreme.
The devotees were blissfully crazed when they saw their true love Shri Krishna and Shri Radha Raani completely covered with petals of roses. The devotees “Dandia Raas” with yougal jodi gave teary eyes to many.
The beautifully decorated poster of Shri Bhagwanji milking the Gaoo Maata.Yashoda ma holding “Bachara” was very pleasing to the eyes.
Pujya Guruji’s powerful voice, magnetic personality, style of kathha and beautiful bhajans kept us intensely connected to the kathha. Shri Bihariji’s marvelous swroop is embedded in every soul.
The stage upon which Shrimad Bhagwat Kathha took place was grand, elegant and illuminated by Bihariji’s breath taking presence. The stage was admired and adored by all.
Shri Banke Bihari Pariwar would like to thank Guruji, each and every supporter, volunteer and participant from the bottom of their hearts.