About Mandir
Sri Vrindavan Dham is the holiest of all the holy places. Even the denizens of heaven desire to take birth in this holy land, which is purified by the touch of Krishna’s lotus feet.
Among the seven main temples of Gaudiya Vaishnava sect in Sri Vrindavan Dham, the temple of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar has carved a special place for itself in the hearts of all the Vaishnavas because it houses the most beautiful and unique Deity of Sri Shyamsundar, that manifested from Srimati Radharani’s heart.
All the prominent acharyas of Gaudiya Vaishnava cult used to visit this divine temple to have darshan of His Lordship, Sri Shyamsundar.
On having daily darshan of this transcendental Deity, Srila Jiva Goswami, Sri Gopala Bhatta Goswami, Srila Loknath Goswami and Sri Bhugarbha Goswami etc. used to inundate deep in an ocean of ecstasy.Srila Raghunath Dasa Goswami and Srila Krishna Dasa Kaviraja Goswami, who would otherwise never leave Sri Radha Kunda, also started visiting Vrindavan for the darshan of Sri Shyamsundar, despite their old age and physical problems. Srila Baladeva Vidya Bhushana spent most of his time in Vrindavan in the service of the Deity. Even the recent Gaudiya Vaishnava Acharyas, like Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Goswami Thakur (Founder of Gaudiya Matha) and Srila Bhakti Sarang Maharaj (Founder of Imli-Tala Temple) used to forget themselves on having transcendental vision of the Deities. Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, founder acharya of ISKCON, used to shed tears on having darshan of the Deity.This site is dedicated and offered as a symbol of devotion to Sri Shyamananda prabhu who was personally graced by Srimati Radharani. She gave him a nupur tilak of the shape of Her lotus foot and the transcendental and divine Deity of Sri Shyamsundar.
Sri Krishnagopalanand Dev Goswami Prabhupad
Seva Adhikari
Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Mandir
Sridham Vrindavan
The king of Bharatpur found a self-manifested Deity of Srimati Radharani among the invaluable gems in his treasury in 1580. He came to this sacred grove of Srila Shyamananda prabhu in Sri Vrindavan Dham and performed Her marriage with Shyamsundar on Vasant Panchami. The king also constructed a magnificent temple for the divine couple and Sri Sri Lala Lali were shifted from the underground bhajan-kutir of Shyamananda Prabhu to the temple.
Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Mandir in Sri Vrindavan Dham houses three pairs of Deities.
Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji (Lala- Laliji)
‘Lala’ means little boy and ‘Lali’ refers to a little girl. That is why the smallest pair of Deities in the temple are called Sri Sri Lala- Lali. Lala is the same Deity of Lord Sri Krishna that manifested from Srimati Radharani’s heart and was given by Her to Sri Shyamananda prabhu for worship on Vasant Panchami of the year 1578.
The king of Bharatpur found a self-manifested Deity of Srimati Radharani (Lali) among his Royal treasure in 1580. He came to Sri Shyamananda prabhu in Sri Vrindavan Dham and performed Her marriage to Sri Shyamsundar on Vasant Panchami of the same year. Before his disappearance, Sri Shyamananda prabhu entrusted the responsibility of worship and regular services of Their Lordships to Srila Rasikanand prabhu – the Incarnation of Lord Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. From then the Goswami Prabhupadas descendants of Sri Rasikananda prabhu are continuously engaged in Their loving service. The Deities are on the left side of the altar.
Sri Shyamananda Prabhu, an eternal associate of Lord Sri Krishna, appeared on the 29th March, 1535 AD, in the village Dharenda of the Medinipur district in Gauda Mandal, West Bengal. As per Indian calender, it was Madhu Purnima of the month of Chaitra. His father's name was Sri Krishna Deva and his mother was Durika Devi. Earlier siblings of the couple had departed prematurely. When Sri Shyamananda Prabhu appeared, his parents planned to save him from Yamaraja's jaws by giving a misnomer name "Duhkhi" (sad).
From early childhood, Sri Duhkhi was exhibiting symptoms of highly enlightened Devotee of Sri Krishna. Narrations of the divine pastimes of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Sri Nityananda Prabhu and their associates, used to bring tears into eyes of Sri Dukhi. It would moisten his clothes. Love for Sri Krishna would sometimes make him weep, sometimes laughs, and sometimes- forgetting everything around- he would dance.
He realised real purpose of human form of body at an early age of eighteen and then had an intensive desire to take shelter at the lotus feet of a spiritual master. He left his home - which was more luxurious than heavenly planets- on a foggy night of Phalguna (Feb/March) of 1553 AD. Without informing anybody, he headed for Sripat Ambikakalna. He lost sense of good and bad because of his unrestrained attraction at the lotus feet of his Gurudeva. He crossed rivers and streams, hills and plains, open fields and forests full of ferocious beasts to eventually reach Ambikakalna.
He was completely exhausted and emaciated but surrendered at the lotus feet of Sri Hridaya Chaitanya Adhikari Thakura, a disciple of Sri Gauridasa Pandita (Subala Sakha in Vraja pastime). He received initiation into the Sri Krishna mantra on the Phalguni Poornima of 1554 AD. After initiation, Gurudeva named him Sri "Duhkhi Krishna Dasa.
"Despite regularly listening to the narrations of Lord Sri Krishna's pastimes, chanting Mantra, cleaning the temple, and serving his Guru, he still could not fulfil the desire within his heart. Therefore with the permission of his Gurudeva, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa left Ambika to go on pilgrimage to all the holy places of India. He visited Vrindavan and other Dhamas and places of pilgrimage. Eventually, in 1562 AD he returned to his birthplace, Dharenda. In order to fulfil the wishes of his parents, he then married Srimati Gauranga Devi. However, unrestrainable attraction for Vraja Dham could not make him stay at home for a long period. He, therefore, took darshan of his Gurudeva's feet and returned to Vraja Dham once again in the year 1566 AD.
Vrindavan is adorned with very enchanting forests, fresh desire trees and paths made of different kinds of precious gems. It appeared as if the Rasa of the divine love of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji was showering everywhere in this divine forest. Seeing such a wonderful Vrindavan, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa started offering obeisance to this land again and again, repeating the following words:
Anandavrianda paritundilamindiraya
Anandavrindparinandita-Nandaputram |
Govindasundaravadhu parinanditam
TadVrindavanammadhura murtamaham namami ||
The groves of Sri Vrindavan were covered with large trees-enchanting Tamal, joyful Ashok and beautiful Jasmine. Fully blossomed flowers of Palash (Butea frondosa), Kadamb along with beautiful Parrots (Suk) and Starlings (Sarika) delighted Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa. Sri Vrindavan was covered by fresh and fragrant flowers such as Bakula (Mimusops elengi), Champaka, Red Amaranth and Pomegranate, It was surrounded by beautiful gardens which fascinated the hearts of even the demigods.
While moving around Vraja Mandal, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa reached Nandagram; It was surcharged by the bliss of the childhood pastimes of Sri Sri Shyamsundarji. After seeing the house of Sri Nanda Baba, the King of the cowherd men, he bowed down repeatedly to this village. His chest became wet with tears of love. From Nandagram, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa visited the place of Sri Vrishabhanu known as Barsana. He visited the house of Sri Vrishabhanu in the company of virtuous saintly persons. After having darshan of the transcendental residence of Srimati Radharaniji, he experienced the supreme bliss-which he was always longing for.
He then went to have darshan of Sri Govardhan. On seeing this best of hills, which is non-different from Sri Shyamsundarji, he remembered the Dvapara-yuga pastime of Lord Sri Krishna lifting Sri Govardhan. Completely thrilled, he started dancing like an illiterate and without an iota of embarrassment. Although very learned, he behaved as if a fool! He started glorifying Sri Giriraj Govardhan with a choked voice in the following words:
Saptaham evachyuta hasta-pankaje
bhringayamanam phala-mula-kandaraih |
samsevyamanam harim atma-vrindakair
govardhanadrim shirasa namami ||
During the circumambulation of Sri Giriraj Govardhan, he had darshan of Sri Radha Kunda and Sri Shyama Kunda. Seeing these two ponds- filled with nectarine sweet water, fully blossomed lotuses and surrounded by well-planned nikunjas, he considered his eyes fortunate and successful. Mere touch of the transcendental water of these ponds gave him realisation that material existence can indeed be crossed just like the hoof-print of a cow. He bowed down before both ponds. With folded hands and a heart full of loving emotions, he recited the following verses:
Srikrishnakunda yamadanda-vikhanda-shaunda
Mam mandayadya nijachand pratapavrindaih |
yaih paparashi-paritapakulam viduya
srikrishnachandra padasevana bhajanam syam ||
Again -
Duran nishamya mahimanam ativa ramyam
gandharvika-sarasi dina-janashrayam tvam |
prapto 'smi te savidham atra tatha tanu tvam
karunyamisha-yugalam mayi satkripam syat ||
(Sri Sri Bindu-prakasha, 32-33)
Thereafter, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa went to Yavat, the village of Srimati Radharaniji's in-laws with immense expectations. Looking around this beautiful place repeatedly, he remembered the wonderful activities of Srimati Radharaniji. Surcharged with ecstacy, his eyes started shedding tears of love.
He then moved to Kesitirtha of Vrindavan and became overwhelmed with divine love. He lost consciousness after having darshan of nearby Sri Govindaji, Sri Gopinathaji and Sri Madana Mohanaji. Wherever he had darshan of the deities of Sri Krishna, he would always perceive the deities of Srimati Radharaniji on his left. How can one see the moon without its rays?
During his subsequent visit to Sri Radha Kunda, Sri Dukhi Krishna Das again met Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswamipada and Sri Krishna Dasa Kaviraja Goswamipada. Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswamipada directed him back to Vrindavan accompanied by a Vraja resident named "Dasa" to meet Sri Jiva Goswamipada. Seeing Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa paying obeisance to him, Sri Jiva Goswamipada was overwhelmed with divine ecstasy. Sri Jiva Goswamipada thought that his long wait had finally come to an end. Sri Srinivasa Acharya, an incarnation of loving emotions of Lord Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Sri Narottama Dasa Thakura, an incarnation of the loving emotions of Sri Nityananda Prabhu, were already staying with Jiva Goswamipada. Now, incarnation of the loving emotions of Sri Advaita Acharya, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa, had also arrived. Sri Jiva Goswamipada became absorbed in thoughts to put in practice a plan for the future. With the help of this Trio or "Triveni" (confluence of three), he wished to preach the pure loving mellow of the inhabitants of Vrindavan, as taught by Lord Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Sri Dukhi Krishna Dasa possessed tall and golden body, long arms stretching to the knees, charming eyes, raised curly hairs, broad chest, beautiful limbs and above all, his extraordinary devotion, Vaishnava humility, good behaviour, and steady worship. These virtues made residents of Vraja to feel great affection for Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa and attracted the hearts of Sri Srinivasa Acharya and Sri Narottama Dasa Thakura. He became the apple of the eyes of Sri Jiva Goswamipada who advised him to study the scriptures, listen to Sri Krishna Katha, and chant Sri Hari Nama on beads. Duhkhi Krishna Dasa was not satisfied with this and requested Sri Jiva Goswamipada for the opportunity to render more sevas.
Sri Gauridasa Pandita (Sri Subala Sakha) was one of Lord Sri Krishna's friends in His childhood pastimes. Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa, being his grand-disciple, was also a worshipper in the mellow of friendship (sakhya-bhava). Sri Jiva Goswamipada has given him the understanding that the mellow of conjugal love (madhura-bhava) is the highest, He longed for the ultimate seva in Madhurya bhava-i.e. opportunity to render service to Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji in the groves of Vrindavan. Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa was requesting Sri Jiva Goswamipada for instructions that would enable him to attain the qualification to perform such services. Sri Jiva Goswamipada, considering him a very worthy aspirant, started to instruct him on all spiritual practices in the mellow of spontaneous love (raganuga) as taught by Sri Rupa Goswamipada (Sri Rupa Manjari). Thereafter, he would remain in meditation in his underground bhajan kutir conforming to the direction of Sri Rupa Manjari. Completely absorbed in bhajans, with a joyful mind, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa remained immersed in the continuous loving service of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji during all the eight periods of the day so called, asta pahar lila.
Convinced with Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa's single pointed determination and devotional practice, Sri Jiva Goswamipada finally gave him the rarely attainable right to clean the groves. Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa was now sometimes absorbed in meditation, sometimes in loudly performing Sri Hari Nama kirtana, sometimes chanting his ishta-mantra on beads in full bliss, But, just before sunrise, with a pure mind he would swiftly clean the groves with a broom and scraper. Sri Dukhi Krishna Dasa continued this sadhana very diligently for twelve years. Eventually, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa got realisation of his eternal constitutional form (nitya-siddha-svarupa).
One night, sitting in his underground bhajan kutir and deeply immersed in remembering the sweetest pastimes of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa saw that Sri Shyamsundarji was absorbed in enjoying graceful dancing and singing with the doe-eyed damsels of Vraja in a grove. Srimati Radharaniji and other Sakhis had formed a circle around Sri Shyamsundarji by holding each other's hands, and thus he looked like the moon encircled by the stars. All of them were immersed in that beautiful dance. Some Sakhis played string instruments while some were singing melodiously. Sometimes Sri Shyamsundarji danced with them, and sometimes he just watched Srimati Radharaniji's dance. All of them were plunged in the bliss of dancing and singing. At that moment, to give more joy and pleasure to Sri Shyamsundarji, Srimati Radharaniji started a very attractive and sweet divine dance in a very charming metre. During that fast-paced dance, a golden anklet named "Manju Ghosha" studded with sapphires fell from the left foot of Srimati Radharaniji. Everybody was completely engrossed in the dance and nobody noticed this. The anklet thus remained on the ground. When the dance was over, Kishor and Kishori (Sri Krishnaji and Srimati Radharaniji) went to sleep in the grove on a bed studded with jewels. Peeping through a small opening in the window, the Sakhis considered their eyes fortunate for seeing the sweet Couple united. When the night ended, the Sakhis woke up at the call of the pet female monkey named "Kakkhati" which always knows the right time, They went to awaken Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji. Feeling embarrassed, the Divine Couple left for their respective homes- although they did not wish to. Finally, the Sakhis also went back to their respective homes.
The following morning, carrying a broom and a scraper and with usual detarmination to put his very best, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa went to clean the groves and the place of the Raasa dance. Because of the dance, which took place on the previous night, there were trampled creepers all over. The trees and creepers were, however, full of flowers of uncommon beauty. In the middle of the grove, there were footprints of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji in all directions. These footprints surcharged Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa with divine loving emotions. He started rolling on the ground. Somehow, he retained his composure and started working with scraper-
Taru-mule dekhila kanaka vankaraje
(Sri Shyamananda-prakasha 1. 45)
(Meaning : Saw a golden anklet near the root of the tree)
By the influence of Yoga-maya, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa had forgotten the pastimes of the previous night. He was perplexed to see an "Unusual golden anklet-studded with sapphires lying under a pomegranate tree in the middle of the grove? It is illuminating all directions with its glitter. It is beyond the grasp of the mind and the senses and is dazzling the vision? To whom this transcendental anklet may belong?" Meditating over this repeatedly, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa became perplexed. Suddenly he heard a voice from the sky:
"Yatnatah Sa Raksheti"
(Sri Bindu-prakasha, 55)
(Meaning : Put all efforts to protect it.)
This voice clarified all his doubts and Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa felt great bliss. As soon as he touched the anklet to his forehead, his hairs stood on end, his body started shaking and he started to shed tears of joy. These Ashta-sattvika-vikaras appeared in his body. Surcharged with loving emotions he started dancing. Completely bewildered, he could only utter "Radhe Radhe." With great effort, he maintained his composure.
He hid the anklet under his shawl, and kept it in between the creepers; He continued cleaning the place of the Raasa dance and the groves. At that time, searching for her anklet Rasraseshvari Srimati Radharaniji arrived to that place in disguise, along with her well-wisher Sakhis. Srimati Radharaniji stood behind a creeper along with her dear friend Vishakha, and prompted Sri Lalita Sakhi to enquire from Sri Dukhi Krishna Dasa about the anklets.
Approaching Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa in the guise of a poor old brahmana lady, Sri Lalita Sakhi told him: "O Krishna Dasa! Yesterday evening my newly married daughter-in-law went to fetch water from the Yamuna. She came here to pluck flowers. Suddenly, see saw a Lion (Lord Shyamsundarji) standing next to her, She was bewildered and ran away. In this confusion, an anklet from her left foot felt down here in Nidhuvan, She did not notice it then. If you have found it, please return it to me.
"(CLARIFICATION : Sri Shyamananda Prabhu found Srimati Radharani's anklet at Nidhuvan. This place is located on the eastern side of the road that passes through Temples of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji and Sri Sri Radha Damodarji. Just before Sri Sri Radha Damodar Temple and adjoining samadhi of Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu. Nikunjavan, or Seva Kunj, is located on western side of this Road. At the time this Anklet incident took place, Nidhuvan consisted of a vast area- including above-mentioned Noopur Prapti Sthan. Due to the construction of many temples, mathas, ashramas, houses etc., open area is now reduced. There is a memorial since 1578 AD proclaiming it as the supremely holy place where the anklet was found. This clarification is provided to refute false claim of some selfish individuals who have been claiming that Sri Shyamananda Prabhu found Srimati Radharani's anklet at the Jhadumandal, which is false, a hoax and against facts & well-documented records.)
Hearing these very sweet words from Sri Lalita Sakhi, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa felt great pleasure and, with a delighted heart, enquired from her, "Dear lady! may I know who you are? Where do you live? Kindly introduce yourself to satisfy my curiosity.
"Sri Lalita Sakhi said, "O great saint, best of those whose mind is peaceful! I am a brahmana lady from Kanya Kubja. My house is near the Yavat village in the Mathura district, and my name is Sri Radha Dasi. I came to talk to you because you regularly clean the groves. Have you found a very dazzling and special anklet? Tell me the truth, for saintly persons never speak lie and always help others. "Suspicious with the turn of events, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa, still continued to reply humbly" Dear lady! Your guess is correct. I have found a supernatural, transcendental, divine golden anklet studded with sapphire. Mere touch of that dazzling special anklet surcharged me with divine love for Srimati Radharaniji; I felt divine happiness in my heart. I am fully convinced that it cannot belong to any ordinary lady of this material world. Certainly, there must be some mystery in connection with that anklet. There is an old saying that wonderful things can happen only to deserving wonderful people and never to unqualified people. We have to agree that this is very correct. Your daughter-in-law is certainly an inhabitant of this mortal world and therefore the anklet could never belong to her. Since you also seem to belong to this world, my mind is not at all inclined to give you that divine anklet. Moreover, as you are dressed in such old and torn clothes, it is clear that you are poverty-stricken. It does not seem at all reasonable that the daughter-in-law of an old and poor brahmana lady could wear a golden anklet studded with sapphires. Nevertheless, let your daughter-in-law come here personally and show me that on her other foot she is wearing another anklet exactly like the one I found. I can then give this priceless Golden anklet to you in the presence of five to ten witnesses from your village.
"Hiding behind the creepers, the daughter of Sri Vrishabhanu, Srimati Radharaniji, accompanied by Sri Vishakha and the other Sakhis, was listening to the conversation between Sri Lalita and Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa. Seeing that Sri Lalita was not able to convince Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa, Srimati Radharaniji herself came out from behind the creepers and, full of kindness, spoke to Sri Krishna Dasa, "O pious saintly person! you have just said that this divine anklet does not deserve to be given to any person of this mortal world. However, are not all moving and non-moving beings of Vrindavan divine? Has any ordinary or mundane object got the right to enter Vrindavan?" Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa replied with great cleverness, "Dear lady! your statement that all objects in Vrindavan are divine is completely true. However, although they are all transcendental, they do not appear to be so to our present eyes. All scriptures and learned men agree that although the land of Sri Vrindavan is full of divine stones (chintamani), it appears to us as if made of dirt.
"Hearing the conversation between both, the very clever Sri Lalita Sakhi glanced upwards and mildly smiled. Keeping in mind what they came to do, she confidentially spoke to Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa, "O intelligent one! Your words are true. The anklet you have found is divine, and its owner is divine In form, quality, nature, age and activities!
"Hearing those words, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa became a bit perplexed and addressed the old lady, "Dear lady! my little intelligence is not able to grasp the meaning of your words. I do not understand what you intend to do? You are an ocean of mercy, and I am very eager to know your intentions. Kindly remove my doubts.
"Sri Lalita Sakhi, who is full of transcendental secrets, replied "O best of saints! The lady with a smiling face standing on my right side is the owner of that divine anklet found by you. The name of this lady is Srimati Radhikaji, the dear daughter of King Sri Vrishabhanu and the beloved of the son of the King of Gokula. She resides in the Yavat village and is adorned with transcendental qualities.
"After this transcendental introduction, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa became astonished and felt thrills all over his body. He became dumbstruck and overwhelmed by emotions. Composing himself, with great submissiveness he started praying, "O merciful One! I am very sad. How did this anklet fall from the lotus foot of Srimati Radharaniji, Which is endowed with the most exalted qualities and is adorned with jewels? Although this incident is confidential, please quickly reveal it to me for as long as I don't hear it, my mind won't find peace.
"The merciful Sri Lalita Sakhi then told him, "Dear Krishna Dasa! This episode is very confidential and mysterious. Since you have attained perfection in the path of loving devotion, you have become a qualified candidate to taste this pastime. I will now briefly narrate it.
"Listen! On a pleasant night of full moonshine, the stars were shining in the sky, a fresh breeze was blowing gently and the flowers were full of bees. Surrounded by all of Cupid's opulence, Sri Shyamsundarji, the son of Sri Nanda Maharaja, became absorbed in amorous pastimes, Singing and dancing very gracefully with the moon-faced damsels of Vraja. At that time, due to Srimati Radharaniji has fast paced dance, a golden anklet studded with sapphires and named Manju Ghosha slipped from her left foot and without her knowledge, fell down in the arena of the dance. At the end of the dance, Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji enjoyed loving exchanges on a bed made of jewels inside the nikunja and then went to sleep. Peeping through the small opening in the window the sakhis considered their eyes successful. When the night ended, upon seeing Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji immersed in the ocean of ecstasy, Parrot, starling and the Female monkey named, Kakkhati appeared on nearby trees and recited the following scary verse:
Prodyadarkamshu-jatila satam vandyarunambara
tapasviniva puratah pratah-sandhyeyamagata
-(Sri Sri Vindu Prakash 79)
(Meaning : "The morning twilight, which is praised by saintly persons, has come. Mixed (jatila) with the rays of the rising sun, It looks like an ascetic dressed in red garments.")
As soon as Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji heard the word Jatila (the name of Srimati Radharani's mother-in-law was also Jatila) in the above verse, they became very scared restless and felt deeply sorry because their happiness was broken. Overwhelmed with worries and desirous to go back to their respective homes along with the sakhis, they quickly left the arena of the Raasa dance, keeping a careful eye in all the directions. Srimati Radharaniji's restless eyes looked beautiful like a doe that had strayed from her flock. However, she did not notice that her sapphires studded golden anklet had fallen on the ground.
When Srimati Radharaniji reached home, she looked and realised loss of anklet from her left foot. She became apprehensive and spoke to the Sakhis, "Dear friends, last evening, with great affection my mother-in-law gave me a golden anklet studded with jewels. However, that anklet slipped from my foot and might have fallen either somewhere on the path, or on the grove, or in the dance arena. Now you should decide what to do in this matter.
"Hearing this one Sakhi said, "When you were running very fast, the anklet must have certainly fallen on the way." Another Sakhi said, "For sure the anklet must have fallen on the grove." Yet another Sakhi said, "The anklet must have definitely fallen in the dance arena." When the lotus-faced Sakhis were arguing in this way, the supremely intelligent Vrinda Devi, the best among the Sakhis, arrived there and spoke the following words, "Don't worry. I have heard from the parrot named Vichakshana that a very fortunate person has found the anklet on the arena of the Raasa dance." She continued, "We all should now go to that enchanting spot along with Srimati Radharaniji. Request that gentleman to return the anklet and should bring it back." After hearing these words from Vrinda Devi, the Sakhis addressed Srimati Radharaniji, "Dear Radhikaji! Please go to the place of the Raasa dance with some of Your special companions to get back the anklet.
"Sri Lalita Sakhi further told Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa, "O fortunate and intelligent Krishna Dasa! After due deliberation, we all secretly come to meet you. We have to get back before the harsh-tongued mother in law wakes up. Kindly ponder over the matter and quickly give us that anklet. In exchange, you may ask for any desirable object. We will certainly fulfil your wish.
"Thrilled to hear this supremely gladdening narration from Sri Lalita Sakhi, who is affectionate towards those who are humble, he fell to her lotus feet. Took out the Manju Ghosha anklet of Srimati Radharaniji's left foot from his shawl. Puttting it to his head, and returned to her. With folded hands, he spoke the following words, "O supremely merciful lady! If you want to give me a boon, then please show me your divine original form."
"Ke tumi ! tomar roop dekhiba se ami"
-(Sri Sri Shyamananda Prakasha, 1. 75)
(Meaning : "Who are you? May I see your original form.")
To this, Sri Lalita Sakhi replied, "Dear Krishna Dasa! you can not behold my original transcendental form through these material eyes. Moreover, would you be able to remain calm after having darshan of my transeandental form?" Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa again humbly requested, "Devi! With your mercy even the impossible becomes possible. Kindly, consider me your devoted servant, and show me your original divine form." Pleased with him, Sri Lalita Sakhi told him to close his eyes and gave him divine vision. The greatly fortunate Sri Krishna Dasa then started to behold her original divine form.
Suddha-kanchana-gunjabha subhra-vastra sulochana
koti-kandarpa-lavanya kotindu-lalita-sakhi
(Sri Sri Shyamananda Prakasha, 1. 82)
(Meaning : Radiance of pure Gold with the reddish tint of Gunja, wearing white garments, the doe eyed Lalita Sakhi is endowed with the beauty of millions of cupids and effulgence of millions of moons.)
After having the darshan of Sri Lalita Sakhi's transcendental form, he started trembling with an uncontrollable wave of love and felt down on the ground unconscious. Feeling affectionate towards him, Sri Lalita Sakhi touched him with her soft lotus hand and gave him steadiness of mind. Sri Krishna Dasa regained his senses and submitted the following request at her lotus feet, "O Devi! Kindly give me the right to serve Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji in their sweetest nikunja pastimes in the eternal Goloka Vrindavan. Kindly bless me with this fortune." The merciful Sri Lalita Sakhi replied "O Fortunate one! You can get regular services in the eternal pastimes of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji only after giving up this mortal body. However, let me know. if you have any other desire. I will certainly fulfil it." Reassured for protection by the kind words of Sri Lalita Sakhi, Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa fearlessly submitted the following request:
Mora vancha ei rair charana dekhite
kona upaye darshana karaha turite
(Sri Sri Shyamananda Prakasha, 1. 106)
(Meaning : "My wish is to have darshan of Srimati Radharaniji's lotus feet. Please quickly make it possible by any means.")
This request made Sri Lalita Sakhi very worried. However, Srimati Radharaniji, standing nearby in disguise, also heard it and mercifully told, "Lalita! Give him my mantra. After he bathes in my Kunda Chanting the mantra, he will assume the form of a manjari and can then have my darshan. Act accordingly, for Duhkhi Krishna Dasa is very dear to me.
"Following Her directions, Sri Lalita gave him Srimati Radharani's siddha-mantra that consists of fifteen syllables and is full of six divine opulence. Sri Vrinda Devi then took Sri Krishna Dasa to Sri Radha Kunda. Chanting the siddha-mantra, after taking bath in Sri Radha Kunda, Sri Krishna Dasa surprisingly attained the transcendental form of a Manjari. Everybody present became perplexed upon seeing that Manjari form.
The Manjari's Complexion was bright like molten gold, breasts were raised and large, waist was thin like that of a lion and eyebrows bewildered even Cupid. Wearing two pieces of silken clothes embroidered with bumblebees, she placed the Manju Ghosha anklet on her head. She followed Sri Lalita Sakhi and Sri Rupa Manjari to enter Srimati Radharaniji's temple in the nikunja. The merciful Sri Lalita Sakhi then presented her at the reddish lotus feet of Srimati Radharaniji and spoke following sweet and humble word, "Dear Radhikaji! Please show supreme mercy by putting your soft lotus feet on the head of this very submissive Manjari and consider her as one of Your associates.
"After hearing this, Sri Radharaniji said "This Sakhi, standing in front of me, was previously Sri Krishna-priya - meaning the one very dear to Sri Krishna. Therefore, I will give her special mercy and make her famous among my associates." Having spoken thus, Srimati Radharaniji gave the following direction to Sri Lalita Sakhi:
Ihare nupura chinha diyata apani
(Sri Sri Shyamananda Prakasha, 1. 125)
(Meaning: "Make a mark of my anklet on her forehead.")
Following Srimati Radharaniji's merciful direction, Sri Lalita Sakhi touched the golden anklet on the forehead of this Manjari. Immediately, the previous tilak in Sri Harimandir form turned into an Anklet (Nupur) tilak in the form of Sri Radharaniji's lotus feet. Srimati Radharaniji took away some saffron from her body and added camphor, sandal and honey to it. All these ingredients were then mixed on Chandrakanti stone. Thereafter, using the front part of the anklet, she affectionately made a bright dot in the middle of the new tilak on the forehead of that doe-eyed Manjari (Sri Krishna Dasa) with Her own hand.
Seeing that, Sri Lalita Sakhi said "O blissful and merciful Radhikaji! This unique tilak, including bright dot in the middle and made by your own lotus hand, will become known as 'Shyam-Mohan."
Nasarddham kesha-paryantam urddhva-pundram sushobhanam
madhye kripa-bindu-yuktam tilakam shyama-mohanam
(Sri Sri Shyamananda Prakash)
(Meaning- Decorating from the centre of the nose and extending up to the hairs, in the shape of urddhva-pundarm or, "U"-and incorporating a dot in the centre, this tilak is Shyam Mohan.)
Sri Lalita Sakhi further said, "This favoured one has given immense joy to Srimati Shyama (Radharaniji). Therefore, from today her name will be Shyamananda." Sri Vishakha Sakhi was very happy to see Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa assuming the form of a manjari, which was as bright as gold, and addressed her as "Kanaka Manjari.
"Srimati Radharaniji- the blissful love personified- then addressed Kanaka Manjari in the following words, "Dear Krishna-priya! You give joy to Sri Madhusudana and pleasure to my eyes. You are eternally dear to Me just like Lalita and Vishakha." Welcoming these words and offering obeisance to Srimati Radharaniji, Sri Lalita and Sri Vishakha said, "Kanaka Manjari has attained extraordinary greatness by your mercy. She found your anklet under a pomegranate tree. This good fortune has made her counted among your special associates. Oh, this Kanaka Manjari is blessed and very glorious. Being your special associates even wives of the exalted demigods like Shachi and Savitri will always long for her blessings." At that moment, Kanaka Manjari placed that divine anklet on the left foot of Srimati Radharaniji.
After that, Srimati Radharaniji addressed her again, "Dear Kanaka Manjari, you have given so much pleasure to me as well as to all my associates. Now, go back to the mortal world and complete the mission entrusted to you. By my mercy, the sweet memories of whatever has happened here, will always give you bliss." These words of Smt. Radharaniji made Kanaka Manjari (Sri Krishna Dasa) lost her heart and cry. With tears in her eyes, in folded hands very humbly she said in a choked voice "O, kind hearted Radharaniji! You have given shelter to an undeserving person like me, Please do not send me back to the mortal world, which is burning by the influence of Maya. You have given me this rarely attainable opportunity to serve your reddish lotus feet; please do not turn this unfortunate person away.
"The most compassionate Srimati Radharaniji was deeply pained upon hearing this pitiful interpretation of her dear companion. Affectionately putting her hand on Kanaka Manjari's head - as if to tell not to fear- she said "My eternal associate! You are one of my best and most loving one. Someone like you become an inhabitant of the mortal world only for a special mission - To uplift the conditioned souls. Once you accomplish this mission, you will be back to my eternal services in my eternal abode. You are becoming dejected, pale and morose with just the thought of temporary separation from me. I, therefore, will give you this Deity of Sri Sri Shyamsundarji. Serving with love and dedicating your life to Him, you will be able to forget the distress of separation from me. Not only that, having darshan and serving this deity, even the inhabitants of the mortal world will obtain the most desirable things.
"Having spoken these words, Raseshvari, Srimati Radharaniji glanced affectionately upon Sri Shyamananda Prabhu in the form of Kanaka Manjari, and showing Her divine mercy, gave him the transcendental Deity of Sri Shyamsundarji, manifested from Her lotus heart.
Hridaya-kamala haite prakatila mahabhavera sar |
gopika-raman radhika-bhartta shyamsundar nam jar ||
praner adhar vidhu-mukhir Sakhi lalita laiya |
kanakamanjari rupi Shyamanande dila samarpiya ||
(Sri Sri Shyamananda Rasanidhi 3)
(Meaning: Smt Radharaniji from Her lotus heart was manifested Sri Shyamsundarji, Essence of Mahabhava, Beloved of the Gopis, Protector of herself (Sri Radhika). Lalita sakhi presents this deity-the life and soul of Srimati Radharaniji- to Sri Shyamananda Prabhu who was in the form of Kanaka Manjari.)
At that moment, with Her own lotus mouth, Srimati Radharaniji revealed the greatness of that divine Deity. She addressed to Sri Shyamananda Prabhu, who was then in the form of Kanaka Manjari, "Dear Shyamananda! In this Age of Kali, the souls are short-lived. They lack proper spiritual practice and method of worship. For the easy deliverance of these souls, I am presenting you this deity and they are getting this chance only for you." Srimati Radharaniji continued:
1. Whoever shall have darshan of this Deity even once with devotion shall obtain Prema Bhakti and never take birth again and shall go to the rarely attainable divine abode of Sri Krishna. Misfortunes, poverty and heinous sins shall not enter his home.
2. Whoever shall regularly have darshan of this Deity shall go to the rarely attainable divine abode of Sri Krishna, along with ten past and ten future generations. While in this world, accompanied by sons, grandsons and other relatives, he will enjoy life full of happiness, wealth and opulence, not attainable even to the demigods. He will move around like fearless lion freed from spiritual, supernatural and material flames and miseries.
3. Whoever shall regularly cleanse the temple of Sri Shyamsundarji shall go to the heavenly planets and after enjoying all pleasures there, shall attain the abode of Lord Sri Krishna as one of His attendants to obtain the bliss of His service. If one regularly smears the temple with cow dung after cleansing it, then the relatives of his mother, father and spouse will never go to hell.
4. Any pious person who shall place a flag on the top of the temple of Sri Shyamsundarji and shall decorate the temple with banners shall immediately become free from all sins committed since birth.
5. A fortunate great soul who shall regularly worship this Deity shall attain the power to deliver the whole world and all his desires will be fulfilled.
6. A fortunate person who shall give new garments to this Deity shall reside on the Moon planet and will thereafter attain bliss in the abode of Lord Sri Hari. He will become rich, fortunate, disease free, and dear to the ladies. He will obtain the fruits of having performed the Ashvamedha and the Rajasuya Yajnas and will finally live eternally in the abode of Lord Sri Hari.
7. A rich person who shall offer precious ornaments studded with pearls and gems to the Deity of Lord Shyamsundarji shall become the emperor of the whole earth, the destroyer of the enemies, free from all sins, dear to the ladies and supremely fortunate, after obtaining the fruits of having performed the Ashvamedha and the Rajasuya Yajnas, he will reside eternally in the abode of Lord Sri Krishna. If one shall has the fortune of even once having the darshan with full devotion of Sri Shyamsundarji adorned with golden ornaments, his seven generations will be delivered.
8. A pious person who shall offer to the Deity flower ornaments, umbrella made of flowers, pavilion made of flowers, bed made of flowers etc. will attain the best objects, enjoyment, amusement and pleasure, and at the end shall go to the eternal abode of Lord Sri Shyamsundarji.
9. A fortunate person who shall offer first class foodstuffs and beverages to the Deity shall have all his good wishes fulfilled. He will be long-lived, rich, very fortunate, powerful, handsome, free from worries & diseases and dear to ladies. He will obtain the fruits of having performed the Agnishtoma, Atiratra, Ashvamedha and Rajasuya Yajnas, and at the end shall attain the supreme abode of Lord Sri Krishna.
10. Whoever shall circumambulate the temple of Sri Shyamsundarji four times with a heart full of devotion shall obtain the fruits of having circumambulated the whole universe, having visited all holy places, and having bathed in and circumambulated all of them. He will become free from all sins, attain the fruits of having performed ten Ashvamedha Yajnas, and at the end will go to Lord Sri Krishna's own abode by the vehicle carried by Swan. He will never be born again and all his good wishes will be fulfilled.
11. A fortunate person who shall have darshan of Sri Shyamsundarji by the light of the Arati, His worshiping will be fruitful even if performed without mantras and rituals. Millions of sins committed, including even the killing of crores of brahmanas or illicit intercourse shall be destroyed. At the end he will attain the supreme abode of Lord Sri Krishna.
12. If a fortunate person shall construct and renovate the temple of Sri Shyamsundarji, his ten thousands of past and future generations shall go to the abode of Lord Sri Krishna. All the sins committed by him shall be burnt into ashes and he shall very soon attain the bliss of serving Lord Sri Krishna.
O Shyamananda, beloved of Sri Krishna! I am delivering this Deity to you for the welfare of the whole world. As long as you live in this mortal world you should keep yourself engaged in the loving service of this Deity. After that you will come back to my eternal service in the eternal abode.
"Sri Lalita Sakhi then said to Sri Shyamananda Prabhu, "Dear Shyamananda! Except for Sri Jiva Goswami, you should not reveal this very confidential pastime to anyone else. I am telling you the truth, if you dare to make it public you will embrace death and will be deprived of the mercy of Srimati Radharaniji. If you ever face any adversity by merely uttering the divine Radha-mantra full of six divine opulence given to you by me, you will be able to directly have my darshan." After bestowing their mercy upon Sri Shyamananda Prabhu, who was in the form of Kanaka Manjari, Srimati Radharaniji, Sri Lalita, Sri Vishakha and the other Sakhis left the nikunj.
Thereafter, Kanaka Manjari received back her previous form of (Sri Dukhi Krishna Dasa). By the touch of Srimati Radharaniji's divine anklet, the iron scraper, used for removal of weeds, had turned to gold. As per Sri Radharaniji's desire Sri Krishna Dasa came out of nikunja. On his forehead was the "Shyam-mohan" tilak in the form of Sri Radharaniji's foot, incorporating a bright dot in the middle; on his chest was written "Shyamananda"; under his arm was a golden scraper; and on his head was a divine Sri Krishna deity. Shedding tears of love, he arrived at Srila Jiva Goswamipada's hut.
Srila Jiva Goswamipada was astonished with what he was seeing! Krishna Dasa's previous fair complexion had turned golden. In place of the "Harimandir Tilak," his forehead now adorned with a Nupur Tilak in the shape of Srimati Radharaniji's foot, with a bright dot in the middle. In place of an iron scraper, he was now carrying a shining golden scraper. Above all, on his head was a wonderful and extremely beautiful Deity of Lord Sri Krishna in a three-fold-bending form. Carrying this deity on his head, Sri Krishna Dasa lookd as if immersed in an indescribable realm of transcendental bliss.
Struck with wonder, Srila Jiva Goswamipada asked, "O Krishna Dasa! Where were you for such a long time? How has your fair complexion been changed to this bright golden one? Tell me frankly everything about this mysterious incident. You have definitely been blessed either by Sri Krishnaji or by the daughter of Sri Vrishabhanu, Srimati Radharaniji. What is the truth?" Experienced Srila Jiva Goswamipada concluded that some special mysterious pastimes must have happened in the life of Sri Krishna Dasa.
Sri Krishna Dasa took Srila Jiva Goswamipada to a lonely place. His heart was overwhelmed with emotions; In a choked voice, he narrated the whole confidential pastime and also cautioned about the warning of Sri Lalita Sakhi to not reveal the pastime to anybody except him. Realising Srimati Radharaniji's extraordinary mercy upon Sri Krishna Dasa, a usually very sober Srila Jiva Goswamipada, could not control himself. With transcendental bliss, he started dancing like a child. Profuse tears of love were flowing from his eyes like an unending stream.
Embracing Sri Krishna Dasa very tightly, he spoke the following words in a choked and faltering voice, "Dear Krishna Dasa! You are the most blessed in all the three worlds. Srimati Radharaniji has never shown such special mercy upon anyone else. Today I am also being blessed by touching your body, which has received the direct mercy of daughter of Vrishbhanu. O Krishna Dasa! Today I am completely sold out to you because of your indescribable love to Radharaniji. Oh! Raseshvari was so merciful to you. I am thrilled just by thinking about it.
"Srila Jiva Goswamipada then added, "You will now be known among the Vaishnavas as Shyamananda - the name given to you by Sri Lalitaji, Shyam-mohan tilak will be known as Shyamanandi tilak according to your new name. This transcendental and divine Deity- the life and soul of Srimati Radharaniji, her supreme mercy personified, will be like a desire-fulfilling tree for the welfare of the whole world and will be known by the name Shri Shyamsundarji. His Darshan will keep delivering the mortals of this world.
"Sri Shyamsundarji (Lalaji), the only Deity within the whole creation which was manifested from the lotus heart of Srimati Radharaniji, was received by Sri Shyamananda Prabhu on Vasanta Panchami (23rd January) 1578 AD in Nidhuvan. It was initially installed inside his underground bhajan kutir, located in Sevakunja in Sri Vrindavan Dham (Within the premises of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar's Temple present day). Sri Shyamananda Prabhu used to serve Sri Shyamsundarji like a king.
Around after two years, another amazing pastime took place. One night, Sri Shyamsundarji appeared in Sri Shyamananda Prabhu's dream and told him "My Sri Radharaniji has appeared in the treasury of the King of Bharatpur. Bring her here and unite with me." Simultaneously, Srimati Radharaniji appeared in the treasury of the King of Bharatpur and told the king "O King! Take me to Vrindavan and get me married to Sri Shyamsundarji who has appeared in the grove of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu." Complying with the order of Sri Radharaniji, the fortunate king headed for Vrindavan along with his queen, Priest and other near and dear ones. Srimati Radharaniji eventually got married to Sri Shyamsundarji on Vasant panchami of 1580 AD. After performing marriage, King of Bharatpur got the huge temple constructed for the divine couple that stands to this day with all its splendour. In dowry, he donated Chhatikara village to meet future sevas of the temple. Around the same time, King of Jaipur donated Shyamali village to the services of Sri Radha Shyamsundarji. With so many supernatural pastimes taking place in his life, Srila Jiva Goswamipada, with everybody's concurrence, bestowed title of "Prabhu" to Sri Shyamananda Prabhu.
Before his disappearance, Sri Shyamananda Prabhu entrusted the responsibility of the worship and service of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji to his favourite and foremost disciple, Sri Rasikananda Deva Goswami Prabhu- an incarnation of Sri Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. After his disappearance, to this day, the Goswami Prabhupadas, the qualified descendants of Sri Rasikananda Prabhu, have been carrying on the loving service of the Deities with complete devotion, purity & exclusive dedication and meticulously follow all the ancient traditions of the temple.
Sri Sri Radha Kunjabihariji:
Once the entire Vraja Mandal was hit by a drought for a number of years. At that time the great grand-son of Sri Rasikananda prabhu, Mahant Sri Brajajanananda Deva Goswami Prabhupada came to Vraja Mandal from Sripat Gopivallabhpur by boat after receiving a letter seeking blessings from Srila Baladeva Vidyabhusana Prabhupada. When he visited Nandgram, the inhabitants were fascinated by his charming personality and requested him for a solution to their sufferings. By his mystic powers he was able to bring showers of rain to this region bringing an end to the drought. As a result, all the Nandgramvasis took initiation from him.
The mahant found Their Lordships, Sri Sri Radha Kunjabihariji in Nandgram and after his disappearance, the Deities were brought to Vrindavan by Srila Baladeva Vidyabhusana Prabhupada and installed in Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar temple. They Deities are on the right side of the altar.
Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji (Big Deities):
Standing majestically in the centre of the altar are Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji who were installed by Srila Baladeva Vidyabhushana Prabhupada on the day of Vasant Panchami in the year 1719 AD. The deities of Sri Sri Shyamsundar (which was manifested from the lotus heart of Srimati Radharaniji and was handed over to Sri Shyamananda Prabhu) and Srimati Radharaniji (which was self-manifested at the treasury of the King of Bharatpur in rajasthan) popularly called Lalaji and Laliji were very small in size. He could not satisfy his cherished desire to offer them a large variety of outfits and decorations. Srila Baladeva Vidyabhusana Prabhupada was very impressed with the worship of the large Deities of Sri Radha Govindaji at Jaipur. He sought and received permission from the then Mahanta Sri Sri Brajajanananda Deva Goswami Prabhpada to install large deities. A large block of stone from Nilgiri, near of his birth place village Athantar in Odissa was carved into the beautiful deity of Sri Shyamsundarji and a deity of Srimati Radharaniji was made of Asta Dhatu (eight metals). These deities were installed in the centre alter of the temple on the Vasanta Panchami of 1719 AD.
Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Mandir was the first in Vrindavan to start Mangala Arati which still goes on uninterrupted. It was started in commemoration of the victory of Srila Baladeva Vidya bhushana Prabhupada on behalf of Gaudia Vaishnava Sampradaya at Galta, near Jaipur in Rajasthan state.
Locations
The temple is situated In the heart of the town of Sridham Vrindavan at Mohalla- Sevakunj, near Loi Bazaar, on the same road as the Sri Radha Damodar temple.
Postal Address:
Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Temple
Mohalla: - Seva Kunj ,P.o.:-Vrindavan – 281121
District: - Mathura ,Uttar Pradesh, India
Mobile No:- 9412226368, 9258056368
Email:- shyamanandaprabhu1535@gmail.com
Face book:- Radha Shyamsundar (https://www.facebook.com/radhashyamsundar/)
1. Underground bhajan kutir (cave) of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu :
After his arrival at Sridham Vrindavan in 1566 AD, Sri Shyamananda Prabhu made a cave about five feet below the ground level and measuring 16` x 7` x7`. He performed rigorous spiritual practices within this cave for twelve long years. Eventually, attained perfection and received the special mercy of Srimati Radharaniji through the deity of Lalaji (Small Sri Sri Shyamsundarji) which was manifested from Her lotus heart. As there was no temple, this Deity was installed inside this cave. Later on, Gaudiya Vedanta Acharya, Sri Baladeva Vidyabhushana Prabhupada continued his rigorous sadhana in this very cave. Many of his sacred books were composed here. Bhajan done inside this sacred cave has enormous power.
2. The place where the anklet of Srimati Radharaniji was found and Sri Shyamsundarji appeared:
This place is situated at a short distance ahead of the Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Temple towards the Sri Sri Radha Damodara Temple. The Samadhi of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu adjoins it. This sacred place is very important and immensely sacred to the Vaishnavas of the whole world for the following reasons:
1. The eternal Raasa-lila of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji takes place here.
2. While meditating on Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar's pastimes, it is here that Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu had darshan of the Raasa-lila.
3. It is here that Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu found Srimati Radharaniji's golden anklet, studded with sapphires and named "ManjuGhosha".
4. This is the place where Sri Lalita Sakhi and Smt. Radharaniji marked Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu's forehead with the "Shyama-mohana" tilak.
5. It is here that Sri Lalita Sakhi gave Sri Duhkhi Krishna Dasa the name "Shyamananda."
6. It is here that Sri Vishakha Sakhi gave Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu the name "Kanaka Manjari."
7. It is here that Sri Lalita Sakhi gave Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu the fifteen-syllable Sri Radha-mantra which is complete with six divine opulence.
8. It is here that Srimati Radharaniji manifested the Deity of Sri Sri Shyamsundarji (Lalaji) from Her lotus heart and gave to Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu.
9. It is here that Srimati Radharaniji revealed the divine glories of Sri Sri Shyamsundarji (Lalaji) from Her lotus mouth.
10. This is the place of Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu's bone Samadhi temple, which was built after he disappeared in Nrisimhapur, Odisha, in 1630 AD.
11. It is here that many Sadhus practised bhajan and attained perfection.
On the Vasanta Panchami of the year 1578, when Sri Shyamananda Prabhu was cleansing the Nidhuvan, he found divine anklet of Srimati Radharani's left foot. The anklet was made of gold, studded with sapphires and named "Manju Ghosha. " Since then, a marble altar marks this place.
However, some selfish and greedy individuals now preach that Sri Shyamananda Prabhu found the anklet at "Jhadumandal", a claim that is totally baseless. It has only one purpose - Deceive innocent pilgrims and get some money from them.
On the 28th January of 2012, the appearance day of Sri Sri Shyamsundarji, a plan was announced to construct a temple on this original site where the anklet was found. The estimated cost is Five crore rupees . We welcome the cooperation of all sincere devotees to accomplish this grand task.
3. Samadhi of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu:
The samadhi of Sri Shyamananda prabhu was established in 1630 AD. It is situated a little ahead of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar temple but just before the Sri Sri Radha Damodara Temple. It is part of Nidhuvan. After his disappearance, the body of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu was cremated at Sri Narasinghapur, Odisha. With everybody's consent, his bones were placed in two Samadhis, One at Sri Narasinghapur (now known as Kanpur), odisha and the other at Sri Vrindavan, The sacred alter marking the spot where the anklet was found.
4. Samadhi of Sri Baladeva Vidyabhushana Prabhupada:
Kunja Matha is the place where Sri Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu first stayed at Puri. Later, Sri Shyamananda Prabhu, too served in the same temple . Gaudiya commentator of Vedant sutra, Sri Baladeva Vidyabhushana received initiation in the Shyamanandi disciple succession from Shri Radha Damodar, who was the Head priest (Adhikari) of this Kunja Math. He was given the name of Ekanti Govinda Dasa. He soon departed for Vrindavan and lived in the Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Temple. He obtained victory in 1718 AD on behalf of the Gaudiya Vaishnava Sampradaya in Galta, Rajasthan. Mahanta Sri Brajajanananda Deva Goswami Prabhupada permitted him to install the large Deities of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji on Vasanta Panchami of 1719 AD, at Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar temple, Vrindavan. Along with constantly engaging in the loving service of these Deities, he wrote many books . He disappeared on the Ganga Puja (Dashahara) day of 1768 AD. His Samadhi was established on the rear side of the temple near his beloved Deities Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji.
5. Samadhi of Sri Brajajanananda Deva Goswami Prabhupada:
The fourth Mahanta of the Sri Sri Shyamanandi Gaddi, Sri Brajajanananda Deva Goswami Prabhupada, came to Vraja Mandal from Sripat Gopiballavpur in 1718 AD. He first sailed on boat along the Ganges. Shifted to Yamuna at Triveni (Prayag) to finally reach Vraja Mandal. At that time, Vraja Mandal had not received rainfall for many years. Endowed by supernatural powers, he brought showers of rain with him. As a result, all the inhabitants of Nandagram took initiation from him. While living there, he obtained the Deities of Sri Sri Radha Kunja Bihariji. After disappearance, his body was cremated and bones were placed in two Samadhis. One near the Sri Sri Nrisimha Deva temple in Nandagram, and the other in Sri Vrindavan on the rear side of the temple of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji.
6. Samadhi of Sri Sarveshvarananda Deva Goswami Prabhupada
In 1900 AD, the twelfth Mahanta of the Sri Sri Shyamanandi Gaddi, Sri Sarveshvarananda Deva Goswami Prabhupada, came to Vrindavan from Sripat Gopiballavpur as a part of pilgrimage to many holy places in India. He spent the rest of his days in the loving service of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji. He disappeared on the 4th lunar day of dark fortnight of Pausha month. After cremation of his body two Samadhis of his bones were established, one in Sri Vrindavan, on the rear side of the Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundarji Temple and the other in Sripat Gopiballavpur.
Samadhis of several other self-realized souls are situated on the rear side of Sri Sri Radha Shyamsundar Temple as well as near the Samadhi of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu.
7. Charanamrita (nectar of the feet) of one hundred thousand Vaishnavas:
In 1621 AD, as per the direction of Sri Sri Shyamananda Prabhu, Sri Sri Rasikananda Prabhu organized a huge and magnificent Raasa Festival in Sripat Gopiballavpur. Countless Vaishnavas from Gauda Mandal, Nilachala, Vraja Mandal, Ayodhya and other holy places in India participated in it.
As per the direction of Sri Sri Rasikananda Prabhu, one hundred thousand Vaishnavas had their feet washed, and the water was collected and preserved. This charanamrita is still available in Sripat Gopiballavpur as well as in the Sri Sri Radha-Shyamsundar Temple in Sri Vrindavan.
Please click here to view the map of the temple.