Divyāvirbhāvaḥ — Divine Appearance Festivals

I take shelter of Sri Caitanyadeva, by whose mercy even a most fallen person can participate in the grand festivals of the Supreme Lord, such as His water pastimes.

Beginning from the full moon day in the month of Vaisakha, up to the full moon day in the month of Jyaisthl, one should regularly worship Lord Krsna, who is fond of enjoying water pastimes, and observe the other festivals.

For observing the Lord's water pastimes, one should place the Deity of Lord Krsna under dripping water when the heat of summer increases during the month of Jyaistha. According to how hot it becomes, one may also place Krsna under dripping water during the months of Vaisakha, Asadha, and Sravana, especially on bright sunny days.

R 134 * HARI-BHAKTI-VILAS A

When the heat of summer becomes unbearable due to scorching sunshine, one should place the Deity of Lord Krsna in a container filled with cool, fragrant water. After worshiping the Lord as one is accustomed to doing, one should place Him on a throne next to the water pot and again worship Him with offerings of sandalwood paste and other articles.

After offering drati to the Deities, one should first distribute the Lord's caranamrta to others, and then accept it oneself. Because it is prohibited to bathe the Deities on DvadasI, one should bring the Lord for His water pastimes at night, after duly worshiping Him.

O lord of the earth, one who worships the Deity of Lord Krsna, or a salagrama-sila that bears the marking of a cakra, while observing the prescribed rules and regulations, during the months of Caitra and Vaisakha, placing Him in water that has been kept in either a golden, silver, copper, or clay vessel, accumulates unlimited pious merit.

O King, as long as the mountains remain upon the earth, and as long as the sun and moon continue to rise in the sky, no member of that person's family will have to traverse the path to hell.

O King, every day, during the month of Jaistha, one should place the Deity of Lord Hari in cool, fragrant water mixed with sandalwood paste and tulasi leaves. By doing this, one will be relieved of all kinds of material miseries up until the time of annihilation of the universe.

136 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA Those who worship Lord Kesava with offerings of varieties of flowers, after placing Him in a water pot, during the months of Jyaistha and Asadha, will never experience the punishment of Yamaraja or his servants.

Because Lord Visnu created water, because He lies down in the water, and because water is very dear to Him, one should worship Him by placing Him in water, especially during the heat of summer.

One who places the Supreme Lord, in His form as the sdlagrdma-sild, in a vessel of water with great devotion, delivers his entire family.

O King, during the month of Sravana, and especially during the month of Asadha, one who worships Lord Hari by placing Him in water, especially on the night of DvadasI, obtains the merit of performing seventy million sacrifices.

One who worships the Supreme Lord, the flag of whose chariot bears the symbol of Garuda, on the night of DvadasI, placing Him in water mixed with sandalwood paste and other fragrant substances, becomes qualified for achieving liberation.

O King, those who put Lord Janardana in a vessel of water on a cloudy day will certainly dwell in hell.

During the summer, one should celebrate a grand festival commemorating the Lord's pastimes in the water of Yamuna.

pddme (In the Padma Purana it is stated) bhimasena uvdca pitdmaha hyasakto'ham upavdse karomi kim ato bahuphalarh bruhi vratam ekam api prabho

138 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA Bhlmasena said: O grandfather, I am unable to observe any fast. O lord, what should I do? Please tell me about a single vow that I could observe and attain maximum benefit.

Vyasadeva said: You should observe a complete fast, without even drinking water, on the EkadasI during the fortnight of the waxing moon, either in the month of Jyaistha or Asadha.

On that fast day, an intelligent person should totally avoid water, except for bathing and performing acamana, and he should not eat anything, knowing that this would break his vow.

By voluntarily abstaining from even drinking water from one sunrise to the next, intelligent persons can accumulate the merit of observing twelve Dvadasi vratas.

Thereafter, in the early morning of DvadasI, one should first bathe and then give water and gold in charity to the hrahmanas while observing the correct procedures. After doing this, one should have his meal in the association of the hrahmanas. O Bhima, hear now as I describe the benefit one attains by following this vow.

There is no doubt that those who observe the vow of Ekadasi throughout the year achieve great benefit. Lord Kes'ava, who holds a conch, club, and disc in His hands informed me of this.

O best of men, it is a fact that by observing Nirjala Ekadasi, one attains wealth, grains, good children, good fortune, and happiness.

The fierce and cruel Yamadutas, who have gigantic forms, who can assume any form at will, and who carry a stick and a rope in their hands, cannot approach such a person.

The fortunate devotee who observes this vow is taken to the abode of Lord Visnu after death by the Visnudutas, who are dressed in yellow garment and who can travel faster than the mind.

An exalted Vaisnava who observes a total fast on this day, without even drinking water, obtains the merit of donating millions of gold coins during each prahara (three hours).

One who gives charity, takes a holy bath, chants mantras, or performs a fire sacrifice the day after this Ekadasi achieves inexhaustible pious credit. This is the statement of Lord Krsna.

O King, what is use of observing other religious principles? Simply by observing a complete fast while following the prescribed rules and regulations on Nirjala EkadasI, one will be transferred to the abode of Lord Visnu.

O Bhlmasena, those who have observed this pure Nirjala EkadasI have delivered all of their family members, and will also take with them one hundred persons who are not of their family, when he ascends to the abode of Lord Krsna.

Those who have not observed this EkadasI are their own worst enemies. Such persons are sinful, wretched miscreants. Of this, there is no doubt.

142 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA One who hears the discussion of this vow with devotion, and who glorifies this vow, will certainly attain the heavenly planets after death. One should not entertain doubt in this regard.

As mentioned earlier, a Vaisnava should make a resolution while touching water and chanting the appropriate mantra before observing this vow, in accordance with the prescribed rules and regulations.

For the pleasure of Lord Kesava, and for completely subduing my mind and senses, I will observe a total fast, without even drinking water, on this Ekadasi.

One should give up the use of water throughout the day and night but one can use water for performing dcamana, and one can honor caranamrta.

On this Ekadasi, one should perform abhiseka to a golden Deity of Lord Trivikrama with milk and other substances, after completing the regular worship.

After bathing and drying the Deity, one should offer Him new clothes and then worship Him with offerings of sandalwood paste, flowers, and obeisances. One should then remain awake the entire night, singing and dancing before the Lord.

The next morning, after completing one's duties, such as bathing, one should worship the Deity of Lord Trivikrama with a heart filled with devotion.

If one has the capacity, he should donate water pitchers decorated with sandalwood paste to the brdhmanas.

144 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O master of the demigods! O master of the senses! O deliverer from material existence, may I attain the supreme destination by donating this water pitcher.

If one has the financial means, he should give charity of gold, umbrellas, dhotis, cadaras, shoes, and fine water pots to qualified brdhmanas.

If one is able to, he should feed qualified brdhmanas. Thereafer, he should drink some water, either from his brother's hand or from his own hand, and then sit down to silently have his meal in the company of his friends.

When Lord Hari desires to go to sleep on the DvadasI in the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Asadha, Vaisnavas should break their vow and brand their bodies with various mudras.

To firmly enhance their determination to perform devotional service to the Lord, brahmanas, ksatriyas, vaisyas and sudras should brand their bodies with mudras while surrendering themselves to Him in all respects.

Decorating one's body with branded marks of a cakra, etc. is a sign of one's relationship with the Supreme Lord, just as the wearing of gold or conch shell bangles is an indication that a woman is married and chaste.

vayu purdne (In the Vayu Purana it is stated) agninaiva tu santaptam cakram dddya vaisnavah dhdrayet sarvva varnandm hari sdlokya siddhaye Just to help the members of ail the varnas attain the liberation of going back to Godhead, Vaisnavas should decorate their bodies with branded markings of a cakra, etc. using red-hot iron.

146 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA cakradi cihnitdrh bhupa dharayed vaisnavo narah O King, Vaisnavas should decorate their bodies with markings of a conch shell, disc, and so on, made by branding it with metal that was heated in the fire.

A wise devotee should decorate his body with markings of a cakra that represents Lord Hari's Sudarsana cakra. It should have twelve spheres, six corners, and three round bangles.

that is recorded in the Qaruda Purdna this verse is found) garutmanna visesena sarvva varne svayarh vidhih vipro vd ksatriyo vdpi vaisyah sudras tathaiva ca O Garuda, it is a general principle that Vaisnavas belonging to all the varnas—brahmanas, ksatriyas, vaisyas and sudras—should decorate their bodies with the tapta cakra mudra.

As the performance of the agnihotra sacrifice is an eternal function, as studying the Vedas is an eternal duty of brahmanas, decorating one's body with marks of tapta cakra mudra is the eternal duty of everyone.

in the Uttara Khanda of the Padma Pur ana it is stated) sahkha cakrdnkanarh kuryydd brdhmano bdhumulayoh hutdgni naiva santapya sarvva papa panuttaye To nullify all sinful reactions, a brahmana should decorate his arms by branding them with marks of a conch shell or cakra, using metal heated in the sacrificial fire.

Before commencing any Vedic ritual, one should brand his body with markings of a cakra, conch shell, or one of the other five weapons of Lord Visnu.

If a brahmana does not brand his body with symbols of the Lord's weapons, such as the cakra, then he is to be considered a neophyte.

148 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA sarvva veda vido vdpi sarvva sdstra visdradah adhrtvd vidhind cakrarh brahmanah panto bhavet Even if such a brdhmana were to observe thousands of forms of etiquette, study all the Vedic literatures, and become expert in all the sdstra, one should still not eat anything offered by him because by not decorating his body with the markings of the Lord's cakra and other weapons, a brdhmana will soon fall down from his position.

If he desires to attain perfection by performing the rituals that are prescribed in the Vedas, or by chanting mantras, a brdhmana should decorate his body with branded symbols of the Lord's weapons, such as the cakra.

In order to become qualified to worship Lord Hari, one should decorate his body with the symbol of the Lord's cakra. Especially for achieving perfection in devotional service, a Vaisnava should decorate his body by branding these symbols.

One should always decorate his body with symbols of the Lord's ornaments, such as the cakra and conch shell, just as one wears a sacred thread. This rule must be especially followed by brahmanas and Vaisnavas.

One who renders devotional service to Lord Krsna, who is praised with selected verses, after decorating his body with branded symbols of the Sudarsana cakra becomes qualified to attain the liberation of residing on the same planet as the Supreme Lord. The twelve points of the cakra are called nemi. By voluntarily branding the body with hot nemis, one can attain the liberation of merging into the Lord's existence.

The Sudarsana cakra of Lord Visnu is the protector of the demigods and devotees. One who marks his body with red-hot imprints of the cakra becomes relieved from all sinful reactions and attains the supreme destination where thoroughly detached sannyasls reside.

Those who do not decorate their bodies by branding a cakra are foolish and they will not be able to attain the transcendental abode of the

150 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA Lord. Those who brand their bodies with symbols of the Lord's weapons will live happily in the association of liberated souls.

Those who decorate their arms with branded symbols of Lord Visnu's cakra and lotus will cross over the ocean of material existence and become supremely saintly personalities. They will be liberated, although living in this world. Some devotees decorate their bodies with symbols of Lord Visnu's five weapons, such as the club.

The great sage, Yajnavalkya, said: Pious persons who desire their own benefit should worship Lord Hari with love and devotion. One should decorate his body by branding it with the symbol of a cakra and other ornaments of the Lord, just to protect religious principles. That is the statement of sdtdtapl sruti.

The demigods have been able to assemble in the heavenly planets by decorating their broad arms with the branded markings of the Sudarsana cakra, and human beings are able to expand their population by wearing these auspicious symbols on their bodies. Exalted always wear these markings of the Sudarsana cakra on their bodies.

In all religious ceremonies, a brdhmana who is decorated with markings of the Sudarsana cakra should be nicely worshiped. Those who are devoid of the markings of the Visnu cakra should be kept away from all religious ceremonial performances.

O King, the body of a man or woman that is devoid of the markings of Lord Krsna's cakra is as good as a corpse found in a crematorium. If you accidentally meet such a person, you should quickly bathe with your clothes on and then worship Lord Hari for purification.

152 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA On this subject, many learned persons, such as Venkatacarya, who was a principal and renowned devotee in the disciplic succession from Sri Ramanujacarya, have collected numerous statements from the Vedas and other revealed scriptures as evidence.

If you happen to see the face of a person who blasphemes a Vaisnava whose body is decorated with markings of tapta mudra, you must purify yourself by looking at the sun.

brahmana's lamentation when his son was killed by King Dasaratha) sildbuddhih krtd kirhvd pratimaydrh harer mayd kirn mayd pathi drstasya visnu bhaktasya karhicit tan mudrdnkita dehasya cetasd nddarah krta yena kmrnrna-vipakena putrasoko mamedrsah What mistake did I commit? Did I consider the Deity of Lord Hari to be made of stone? Did I fail to respect a devotee whose body was decorated with the auspicious markings of a cakra while on the way so that today I must suffer the grief caused by the death of my son?

saupame (In the Qaruda Purdna it is stated) asucir vdpyan dcdrah sarvva dharmma'vahiskrtah pratapta sanka cakrdbhydm ankitah pankti pdvanah Even if a person is impure, sinful, or totally irreligious, he can be counted as a saintly person if his body is decorated with branded marks of the Lord's conch, cakra, and so on.

O Earth, know for certain that an area of three yojanas around a person who decorates his body with marks of the Lord's cakra, whether he resides in a pious country or in the land of mlecchas, is a sacred abode of the Lord.

If a Vaisnava decorates his body with the markings of Lord Visnu's weapons, such as the cakra, by branding them with red-hot iron, he will attain the supreme destination, Lord Visnu's transcendental abode.

154 S R I H A R I - B H A K T I - V I L AS A

Those who heat iron symbols of Lord Visnu's sacred weapons, such as the cakra and conch shell, in fire and imprint them on their arms will avoid going to the fearful abode of Yamaraja. Instead, they will attain Lord Visnu's supreme abode, Vaikuntha.

One whose body is decorated with branded symbols of the Lord's cakra that were made with metal heated in the fire of sacrifice, has already attained the merit of bathing in all the holy places and has obtained the fruit of performing all kinds of sacrifice. Of this there is no doubt.

A brahmana who decorates his arms with branded symbols of Lord Visnu's cakra and chants the appropriate mantras is a candidate for liberation from material existence.

Those who decorate their arms with branded markings of Lord Visnu's cakra by heating metal symbols in the fire are relieved of all sinful reactions and at the end of life, they ascend to the supreme abode of Lord Visnu, Vaikuntha.

Those great souls who are decorated with markings of Lord Visnu's cakra are situated in the transcendental position. But, those who are devoid of such markings of Lord Visnu's cakra are to be considered mundane and fallen. This is the verdict of sastra.

Often from the mouths of the smartas, statements against decorating one's body with marks of tapta mudra are heard. But, actually there is no basis for such statements. No prohibitory statements are found in the Vedas, Puranas, historical works, or other revealed scriptures. Even if such a statement is found somewhere, it should be ignored.

To put symbolic markings of tapta mudra on one's body, one should first worship Lord Krsna with five ingredients, such as sandalwood paste

156 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA a n d flowers. T h e n , o n e should worship t h e cakra and conch shell with five ingredients a n d offer obeisances to them.

O Sudarsana cakral O Pancajanya conch shell! Please accept my respectful obeisances.

A intelligent devotee should first invoke fire and, according to his ability, perform a fire sacrifice while c h a n t i n g the miila mantra. Thereafter, h e should h e a t the metal representations of the Lord's weapons, such as the cakra, conch, or club in the fire.

O n e should first invoke each of the Lord's weapons by reciting their respective miila mantras. T h e n , o n e should worship these weapons a n d offer his obeisances. Thereafter, h e should offer his obeisances to his spiritual master and Lord Krsna, and pray as follows.

O supreme controller, I am your eternal servant and a soul surrendered unto you. I maintain myself by eating Your remnants of food. I desire to decorate my body By branding symbols of Your weapons.

O Sudarsana cakra, my obeisances unto you. You are expert in destroying all your enemies without delay. You have become very famous due to being touched by the lotus hand of Lord Narayana.

You possess one thousand spokes and you are the king of all cakras. You are known as Sudarsana. Please come and accept your share of sacrifice, and the worship offered by me. Let me offer You my repeated obeisances.

O Pancajanya conch shell of Lord Visnu, I offer my obeisances unto you. By your grave yet sublime sound, you shattered the hearts of the leaders of the Kaurava army. You have three lines, you are held in the right hand, and you are broad. My obeisances unto you.

158 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

O Pancajanya, you are carried by Lord Narayana. Please come and accect your share of the sacrificial offerings, and the worship offered by me. I bow down to you, again and again.

O Pancajanya! My obeisances unto you!

O trident known as Nandaka, you purify the three worlds. You are worshiped by the lotus-like eyes of the demigods and beautiful demigoddesses.

O jewel-like trident, you are famous as Nandaka. All the demigods worship you. Please come and partake of your share of sacrificial offerings, and the worship offered by me. 1 repeatedly bow down to you.

O trident, please accept my obeisances.

O Kaumodaki club, you destroy the King of the demons, you are carried by Lord Vasudeva, and you are the protector of the Lord's devotees. My obeisances unto you.

Please come O GadadevI Kaumodaki! You are the queen of all weapons. Please accept the sacrificial oblations, and the worship offered by me. My repeated obeisance unto you.

Orh gadayai namah, Orh padmaya namah, Orh sasaraya sarahgaya namah.

O Sudarsana, you are as effulgent as millions of suns. I am blinded by the darkness of ignorance and so please show me the eternal path towards Lord Visnu.

160 §Ri HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

O Pancajanya, you are expert in killing all kinds of sin by your thundering sound. I am a sinful person, fallen into the formidable material existence. Please deliver me.

While chanting these mantras, one should first decorate his right arm with Lord Krsna's weapons, such as the cakra, and then the left arm with the conch.

A Vaisnava should help his wife, children, and servants dedicate their lives at the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord by decorating their bodies with markings of various tapta mudrds.

O n should decorate b o t h his arms with markings of tapta cakra and also decorate his wife, servants, domestic animals, and assets with markings of tapta cakra.

According to t h e prescribed procedures, o n e should make t h e five weapons with iron and purify t h e m by c h a n t i n g the appropriate mantras. T h e n , h e should decorate his forehead with the symbol of t h e club, his head with t h e symbol of t h e bow and arrow, his chest with the symbol of the trident, a n d his two arms with t h e symbols of the c o n c h shell a n d cakra.

A brahmana should decorate his right arm with a symbol of the Sudarsana cakra and his left arm with a symbol of the conch shell. This is the opinion of those who are conversant with the Absolute Truth.

nava prasna pancaratre (In the Nava-prasna-pancaratra it is stated)

162 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA sauvar'nam rdjatam tdmram kdrhsya mdyasam vd cakrarh krtva tu medhdvi dharayeta vicaksanah An experienced devotee should make the cakra with gold, silver, copper, bell metal, or iron and use it to brand his body.

Devotees of the Supreme Lord should decorate themselves with symbols of tapta mudra on Utthana DvadasI, especially while residing in Dvaraka.

After offering arati to Lord Krsna, the Vaisnavas should place the Deity on a palanquin. He should then be carried by human beings to a sanctified reservoir of water, accompanied by singing and the playing of musical instruments.

The devotees should then offer flowers to the Lord, take Him from the palanquin, and offer Him prayers. Thereafter, they should carry the Lord to the shore of the reservoir of water.

Thereafter, one should wash his hands and legs and perform dcamana. One should make a resolution and perform the proper nydsa on his body, and on the Deity. After doing this, one should bathe the Lord according to the prescribed rules and regulations.

After praying to the Lord, the devotees should place Him into the water and give Him a nice bath. This should be followed by the offering of grand worship with sandalwood pulp, flowers, and so on.

O Supreme Lord, kindly come and lie down on the bed of Ananta Sesa, whose hoods are effulgent with jewels, within the island of SvetadvTpa. I offer my obeisance unto You.

164 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O Lord of the universe, when You go to sleep, the whole world goes to sleep and when You wake up, the whole world wakes up. O Acyuta, please be merciful to me.

After praying in this way, one who desires to follow the vow of Caturmasya to enhance his devotional service to Lord Krsna, should take a vow to observe all the prescribed rules and regulations.

One should devotedly begin to follow the vow of Caturmasya, either from Sayana Ekadasi, or from the day when the sun enters Karkata-rasI, or on the full moon day in the month of Asadha.

O Lord Acyuta, I will observe all the prescribed rules and regulations of Caturmasya, beginning from Sayana Ekadasi, up to Utthana Ekadasi. Please be merciful and let my vow be completed without any impediments.

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 165

bhavisye (In the Bhavisya Purana it is stated) yo vina niyamarh marttyo vratarh vd japyameva vd cdturmmdsyarh nayen murkho jivannapi mrto hi sah One who observes the vow of Caturmasya without following the prescribed rules and regulations and vows, and without chanting the prescribed mantras, is certainly a fool. He is to be considered a dead man although breathing.

skdnde ndgara khande (In the Nagara Khanda of the Skanda Purana it is stated) srdvane varjjayecchdkam dadhi bhddrapade tathd dugdham dsvayuje mdsi kdrttike cdmisam tyajet One should avoid spinach in the month of Sravana, yogurt in the month of Bhadra, milk in the month of Asvin, and urad dal in the month of Karttika.

that is found in the same Purana it is stated) nispdvdn rdjamdsdmsca supte deve jandrddane yo bhaksayati viprendra svapacdd adhiko hi sah

O foremost brdhmana, when the Lord of the universe goes to sleep, if one eats kidney beans and other beans, he should be considered lower than a dog-eater.

O sage, especially in the month of Karttika, if a person eats kidney beans or other kinds of beans, he will reside in hell until the time of annihilation of the universe.

There is no doubt that if a person eats water melon, patold, eggplant, or pickle during the period when Lord Janardana sleeps, he will lose all the pious merit that he accumulated in his previous seven lifetimes.

One should also give up eating one's favorite fruit and roots that grow during this season.

A learned devotee who observes the vow of Caturmasya should chant the appropriate mantras, perform sacrifice, and engage in congregational chanting of the Lord's holy names. For successful completion of the vow, one should pray to the Lord as follows.

O Lord! O Kesava, I hereby take this vow in front of You that I will observe the prescribed rules and regulations of Caturmasya that are found in the scriptures. By Your mercy, may this vow be completed without any impediment.

O Lord Janardana, if, in the course of observing the vow of Caturmasya, I relinquish my material body, let my vow still be completed, by Your mercy.

that is found in the Visnii'rahasya it is stated) srnu ndrada kdrtsnyena cdturmmdsya vrata kriydh yd nirvarttya naro bhaktyd praydti paramdm gatim

168 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O Narada, now hear with attention as I describe the Caturmasya vrata in detail. By faithfully observing this vow, one can attain the supreme destination, the Lord's abode in the spiritual sky, Vaikuntha.

Simply by contemplating the Vaisnava vows that have manifested in this world, one's sinful reactions that had accumulated during his previous one hundred lifetimes are destroyed.

One who worships Lord Hari during the four months of Caturmasya while eating only once a day, remaining peaceful in mind, bathing daily, and maintaining firm determination, will ascend to the abode of Lord Hari.

One who sleeps on the floor during the four months when Lord Hrslkes'a remains asleep, attains the transcendental abode of Lord Visnu.

One who faithfully observes the vows of Caturmasya and Candrayana, just to please Lord Kesava, will attain the liberation of merging into the body of Lord Visnu.

that is found in the Bhavisyottara Purana it is stated) caturo vdrsikdn mdsdn devasya utthdpandvadhi stri vd raro vd madbhakto dharmrndrtharh sudrdhavratah' grhnniydn niyamdnetdn dantadhdvana purvvakam My devotee, whether a man or a woman, should firmly observe all these rules and regulations that are meant for spiritual advancement during the four months until the Supreme Lord wakes up from His mystic slumber. One should begin his vow in the morning after brushing his teeth.

I will separately describe the benefit one obtains by following all these rules and regulations.

170 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA madhuka taila tyagena saubhdgyam atularh bhavet puspopa bhoga tyagena svarge vidyadharo bhavet During Caturmasya, one who renounces salt will receive a sweet melodious voice. One who renounces oil will receives good children having long lives, one who renounces oil massages will receive a beautiful body, one who renounces eating food cooked in oil will conquer his enemy, one who renounces licorice will attain unlimited good fortune, and one who renounces the enjoyment of flowers will become a Vidyadhara in the heavenly planets.

One who practices yoga will attain the supreme abode of the Lord. One who renounces the six kinds of palatable food will never become ugly, and he will become free from bad odor. By renouncing the chewing of betel nuts, one is blessed with material enjoyment and one who eats uncooked food is purified.

By avoiding oil massages of the legs and head, one will become a king. By renouncing honey and other sweets, one become brilliant. By renouncing yogurt, milk, and buttermilk, one will attain Goloka. By renouncing eating on a plate, one will become a guest in the abode of Indra. By renouncing cooked food, one will receive children having long lives, and by sleeping on the floor or on stone, one will become a servant of Lord Visnu.

One who renounces honey and meat, who remains like an introspective sage, or yogi, and who renounces wine will become free from disease and thus remain healthy. One who observes fasting every alternative day will attain Brahmaloka. By not shaving one's head and face, and not cutting one's nails, one obtains the pious merit of bathing in the Ganges. When one observes complete silence, his words will become infallible, and one who eats off the floor will become a king of the earth.

172 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA pdddbhi vandandd visnor bhaved goddnajarh phalam visnu pdddmbuja sparsdt krta krtyo bhavennarah visnor devdlaye kuryyad upalepana mdrjjane kalpasthdyi bhaved raja sa naro ndtra sarhsayah One who chants the mantra namo ndrayandya will receive the merit of donating one hundred things in charity. By offering obeisances to Lord Visnu, one receives the merit of giving a cow in charity, and by touching the lotus feet of Lord Visnu, a one will become fully satisfied. There is no doubt that simply by cleansing the temple of Lord Visnu, one will become a king for a duration of one halpa.

One who circumambulates the Deities three times and offers prayers will ascend to the abode of Lord Visnu on an chariot drawn by swans.

Those who sing and play musical instruments will attain the planet of the Gandharvas. One who distributes knowledge by daily reciting the sdstra must be considered a representative of Vyasadeva and at the end, he will attain the abode of Lord Visnu.

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 173

By worshiping the Supreme Lord during Caturyamasya with an offering of a flower garland, one will be transferred to the abode of Lord Visnu.

One who washes the Lord's temple with water will attain the planet of the Apsaras. One who bathes in a holy place will receive a purified body.

O Partha, one who drinks the Lord's caranamrta obtains the merit of performing the cdndrayana vrata. One who eats only once a day receives the merit of performing an agnihotra sacrifice.

Those who eat only at night during these four months will attain the merit of traveling to all the holy places of pilgrimage. Those who maintain themselves without begging will receive the merit of digging a pond or a well, or donating water.

174 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

One who eats rice at three o clock in the afternoon will become a permanent resident of heaven. Those who take bathe every day will never experience hellish life. One who eats from his hands rather than from a plate will receive the merit of bathing at Puskara. One who eats from a leaf plate receives the fruit of going to Kuruksetra. One who eats from a marble plate receives the benefit of bathing at Prayaga. One who does not drink water for six hours will remaining without disease. O Partha, by observing all these vows, Lord Visnu becomes pleased.

When I take shelter of yoga-nidra while lying on the bed of Ananta Sesa in the ocean of milk, Laksml-devi, whose feet are washed by the waves of that ocean, gently massages My lotus feet as I remain in complete samddhi. During that time, My devotees who had observed various vows for four months will reside in the abode of Lord Visnu for one kalpa. O foremost Pandavas, there is no doubt of this.

The duty of giving various articles in charity at the completion of the vow of Caturmasya, by Krsna's mercy, will be described at the end of the section dealing with the Karttika vrata.

After pleasing Lord Krsna by offering prayers and worship, again and again, one should partake of the water that washed the Lord's lotus feet, which was kept in a conch shell, in the association of Vaisnavas.

After satisfying the Lord by singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments, and after serving the Vaisnavas with great respect, one should bring the Lord to His temple on a palanquin carried by men.

176 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

Thereafter, one should offer drati to the Lord and bid farewell to the assembled Vaisnavas. Then, one should place the Lord on His throne and lie down on the floor, while constantly remembering Him.

By observing the vow of Caturmasya in this way, one will become very happy. Otherwise, if one fails to observe this vow, there will be an increase in his suffering and he will certainly experience drought.

If one does not observe the vow of putting Lord Hari to sleep in the month of Asadha, in the association of devotees, he will certainly become a victim of a natural calamity, most surely a drought.

O Partha, o n e who approves of, a n d performs, the rituals of putting Lord Krsna to rest, as well as the vow of waking H i m up, will a t t a i n the eternal abode of Lord Hari.

In t h e m o n t h of Sravana, one should worship Lord Krsna with offerings of camphor, sandalwood paste, musk, kunkuma, a n d jasmine flowers. O n e should also offer H i m varieties of fruit, as well as cardamom, cloves, a n d other spices.

O n e should perform t h e ritual of pavitrdropana on the twelfth day of the fortnight of t h e waxing moon, and offer oblations to the sages o n the full m o o n day.

178 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA On the twelfth day of the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Sravana, in the association of devotees, one should joyfully celebrate the festival of pavitrdropana, for the pleasure of Lord Krsna.

vahvrca parisiste (In the Vahvrca Parisista it is stated) sa sndtah sarvvatirthesu sarvvayajnesu diksitah harisca pritim apnoti yah pavitrarh samacaret One who celebrates the festival of pavitrdropana, while following all the prescribed rules and regulations, is supposed to have already bathed in all holy places of pilgrimage, and already performed all kinds of sacrifice. Lord Hari becomes pleased with such a person.

When one does not celebrate this festival by properly following all the rules and regulations, then all the pious merit he accumulated during the previous year is taken away by the demons.

in the Yogasara'Stotra, Rudra spoke this verse to Pavitra after he had assumed the form of the king of the Nagas) ye warn na bahu manyante yathd sambhdvito maya japa homddika tesdrh phalanx tvdmetu niscaydt

O Pavitra, king of the Nagas, because I have accepted you as my sacred thread, if anyone does not offer you respect, all the fruit of his chanting mantras, performing sacrifice, and offering worship will go to you.

O foremost sage, one who does not celebrate the festival of pavitraropana as enjoined in the scriptures, then all his worship performed during the forthcoming year will be useless.

Therefore, devotees of Lord Visnu should faithfully observe the festival of pavitraropana for the pleasure of Lord Hari, year after year.

baudhdyanah (Sage Baudhayana has said) yavat sutrarh pavitrasya tavat svarge mahiyate ayur arogyam aisvaryyarh vipularh tasya varddhate One who celebrates this festival of pavitraropana will be worshiped in heaven for as many years as there are threads in the pavitra. His lifespan, health, and opulence will become greatly enhanced.

180 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

O twice-born sage, the benefit one attains by offering worship for one year, while chanting the appropriate mantras, can be obtained simply by offering pavitra threads to the Lord. This has been stated by Lord Hari Himself.

The festival of pavitraropana of Lord Visnu awards one material enjoyment, liberation, a good wife, fame, unadulterated happiness, wealth, and other assets.

It is most pious among all pious activities. It takes away all of one's sinful reactions. Therefore, the vow of pavitraropana is supremely sanctified.

The same benefit one receives by faithfully worshiping Lord Janardana for one year can be attained simply by observing the vow of pavitraropana.

This vow instantly purifies one who has performed all types of sinful activities. It delivers one from the bondage of material existence. That is why it is known as pavitra, or the purifier. It is famous as a powerful agent of the Supreme Lord.

A garland of forest flowers is known as pavitra, or a sacred thread, in the abode of Lord Visnu, Vaikuntha. The sacred thread is a form of Lord Visnu, the Lord of all pious activities.

Lord Visnu Himself is the three strands of sacred thread known as Narayana. Therefore, the sacred thread is the form of Brahma, Visnu, and Siva, as well as the Rk, Sama and Yajur Vedas. It is also the form of orh.

182 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

In this book, we are writing about the rules and regulations for worshiping Lord Krsna and about the pavitraropana vrata, as explained by the great sage, Baudhayana, and which is approved by all learned persons.

The sacred thread for Lord Krsna should be made of gold, silver, copper, silk, or cotton. In the absence of these, one may use a thread make of kusa grass or reeds.

First of all, one should collect some pure and auspicious cotton thread that was made by brahmanas, and then one should prepare a sacred thread for the Supreme Lord with six strands of that thread.

The sacred thread should then be purified with the five kinds of cow products and washed in the water of the Ganges. Thereafter, it should be further purified by chanting the mula mantra one hundred and eight times.

One should make three sacred threads for the Lord. The first one should consist of one hundred and eight strands of thread and should hang to the Lord's knees. The second one should consist of fifty-four strands of thread and it should hang to the Lord's thighs. The third one should consist of twenty-seven strands of thread and it should hang to the Lord's navel.

In the first sacred thread, there should be thirty-six knots, in the second one, there should be twenty-four knots, and in the third one, there should be twelve knots. The sacred threads should be prepared in this way by experienced persons.

In the first sacred thread, each knot should be tied one inch from the next. In the second one, each knot should be tied one-half inch from the next, and in the third one, each knot should be tied one-quarter inch from the next.

All the knots of the sacred thread should be round and beautiful. They should never be uneven or odd in number.

When a sacred thread is composed of one thousand and eight strands of thread, and has one hundred and eight knots, it is called vanamala.

Vanamala refers to a sacred garland that is made of sacred threads and which hangs from the crown to the lotus feet.

Learned persons should make a sacred thread with twelve strands of pure thread. It should have twelve knots, and should be about fifteen inches long. Such a sacred thread is called gandha pavitra.

The sacred thread for the Lord's associates, such as the demigods, should be made of either twenty-seven strands of pure thread, sixteen strands of thread, or twelve strands of thread. The knots should be tied very nicely. The sacred thread of Agnideva should be made with twenty- seven strands of thread, and the sacred thread of the spiritual master should be made with twenty-six strands of thread.

The sacred thread for Vaisnavas should be prepared as nicely as possible. One should take great care to make that sacred thread appear beautiful.

By preparing and distributing sacred threads that were negligently made and thus do not appear beautiful, both the maker and the giver achieve inauspicious results. Therefore, one should always make beautiful sacred threads, as an act of devotion.

186 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA vastrena dcchddya patale sthdpayettdni vairuwe The sacred thread can be dyed with kuhkuma, aguru, gorocana, or other substances. These sacred threads should be covered with cloth and kept in a bamboo box.

So that the sacred thread can be offered to Lord Krsna, one should make it on Dalaml and then stay awake all night, as previously described, after offering prayers to Lord Krsna.

On this particular Ekadasi, one should first complete his daily duties and then cleanse the temple of the Lord. Thereafter, one should decorate the temple with auspicious drawings.

After completing the daily worship of Lord Krsna, one should again offer special worship to the Lord, to perform the vow of pavitraropana. After completing this ritual, one should pray to Lord Krsna in the following manner.

O my Lord, for your pleasure, and so that I can receive without difficulty the fruit of my worship performed throughout the upcoming year, I celebrate this festival of pavitrdropana, according to the rules and regulations laid down by You.

O Supreme Lord, please be merciful to me so that 1 may not meet with any impediment in this endeavor. O Lord Visnu, You are my only shelter, in all respects and at all times.

One should collect these articles and place them in this order before the Lord. These are—a small twig for brushing the teeth, water, kusa grass, clay, turmeric, kunkum, gorocana, shoes, a white umbrella, camara, fan, barley, rice paddy, and uncooked rice.

After filling t h e pitchers with water, o n e should place t h e m o n top of the auspicious drawings t h a t were made on the floor in front of the Lord. Thereafter, o n e should invoke a n d t h e n purify t h e sacred threads.

First, the bamboo box t h a t contains the sacred threads should be brought a n d placed before the Lord. T h e n , during t h e puja, an experienced devotee should invoke the sacred threads by c h a n t i n g the mula mantra.

O scared thread, please appear here today from the abode of Lord Visnu, just to purify my annual worship of the Supreme Lord. I offer my obeisances u n t o you.

Thereafter, one should invite the Lord's associates, such as Brahma, by c h a n t i n g the appropriate mantra, a n d have t h e m seated in proper places. Thereafter, they should be offered rice paddy, sandalwood paste, flowers, incense, a ghee lamp, food, and betel nuts.

The names of the predominating deities of the three threads are Brahma, Visnu and Mahadeva. And, the names of the predominating deities of the nine threads are Orh, Vayu, Agni, Brahma, Naga, Candra, Surya, Siva, and Visvadeva.

Next, one should invoke the predominating deities of the ten knots and offer them suitable seats. They are Kriya, Paurusi, Vlra, Aparajita, Jaya, Vijaya, Muktida, Sadasiva, Manomayi, and Sarvatomukhl.

190 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O beautifully decorated Lord, who is respected by all the demigods! O enchanting life and soul of the universe, please come and take shelter of the longest sacred thread.

O shelter of Laksml! O controller of all opulence! O personification of all knowledge and transcendental mellows! O fully detached Lord of the universe, please come and take shelter of the longest sacred thread.

O Lord who travels in the fastest vehicle! O Lord of the Purusa incarnations! O Lord of the days! O master! O Supreme Lord, please come and take shelter of the longest sacred thread.

Wherever there is no mention of a mantra, one should begin the chanting with orh, pronounce the name of the demigod in the fourth dative case, and end the mantra with namah.

One should then tie a piece of sacred thread that is approximately six inches long and made of silk to the lotus hand of Lord Krsna.

Because You bestow the results to the worship offered to You throughout the year, please accept this beautiful thread. My obeisances unto you.

Then, the learned devotee should take the gandha pavitra in his hand. Offer obeisances to the Lord and pray as follows.

O Lord of the demigods, You are cordially invited, along with the universal controllers, such as Brahma, the maintainers of human society, and Your servants. O Supreme Lord! O supreme controller! O creator of the injunctions of the scriptures, please come. I will adore You in the morning. O Kesava, please be present before me.

192 SRI H ARI-BH AKTI-VILASA

Holding the gandha pavitra with two hands, one should say: You are born from Lord Visnu's prowess. You are handsome and You are the destroyer of sinful activities. O giver of all kinds of enjoyment! O Lord, I am holding You with honor.

A learned person should add the mula mantra to the above mantra. He should offer the gandha pavitra at the lotus feet of Lord Krsna.

After completing the worship and offering of flowers to the Lord, one should protect the pitcher and sacred threads, either by chanting the sudarsana mantra or nrsimha mantra, and covering them with a kavaca.

One should remain awake the entire night, while reciting the scriptures, singing songs in glorification of the Lord, dancing before the Deities, and offering arati every three hours.

O n EkadasI, one should complete his morning duties a n d t h e n perform t h e daily worship of t h e Lord. Thereafter, he should once again offer a special worship to the Lord, and to t h e sacred threads as well.

O n e should offer the sacred threads, one at a time, to the Lord while c h a n t i n g the mula mantras in a happy mood. This should be accompanied by a rousing sahklrtana, with singing, dancing, a n d t h e playing of musical instruments.

W i t h the pure devotion, Vaisnavas should worship Lord Krsna while c h a n t i n g t h e abode-mentioned mantras, and t h e n offer t h e other sacred threads to the Lord's associates, the demigods.

O Krsna, my obeisances unto You. O bestower of merit to the performers of this annual celebration, please accept this sacred thread and thus purify the pious merit accumulated by me throughout the coming year.

O Supreme Lord! O original Personality! O Janardana, kindly purify me of all the reactions to the sins that 1 have committed. I will be purified by Your mercy.

After offering a grand pujd, prayers, and obeisances to the Lord, one should appeal to Him as follows: O Supreme Lord, as You constantly wear a garland of forest flowers and the Kaustubha gem, please keep these sacred threads and my worship close to Your chest.

O Lord, whether knowingly or unknowingly, I may have neglected Your worship, or it may have remained incomplete due to some impediment. Therefore, let my worship be completed by Your mercy.

In this way, one should also worship the fire-god and offer him a sacred thread. Finally, one should beg forgiveness by chanting mantras, such as mantrahinam kriya hinam and offer all activities for the service of Lord Krsna.

Thereafter, one should worship his spiritual master and offer him a sacred thread. Then, he should offer sacred threads to each and every assembled Vaisnava and also take one for himself.

One should worship and then feed the brahmanas and Vaisnavas according to his capacity before sitting down with his friends and relatives to honor the remnants of the Lord's food.

196 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA pratyaharh snana karmmadi sutrdni uttdryya hdrayet The sacred thread should remain on the Deity either for one month, for fifteen days, for three days, or for one day and night, according to time, place and circumstances. Still, while bathing the Deity, one should remove the sacred thread temporarily.

When the bathing ceremony of the Lord is finished, one should again place the sacred thread over His shoulder.

On the day of immersion, one should offer special puja to his worshipbale Lord, with offerings of flowers, sandalwood paste, and so on. One should also offer many palatable foods to the Lord and then immerse the sacred threads.

O sacred thread! O Pavitra, you may return to the abode of Lord Visnu after bestowing the complete merit of my auspicious annual worship.

As long as the sacred threads remain on the body of the Supreme Lord, the worshiper should practice celibacy, eat havisya rice, and engage in the worship of the demigods.

A learned person who celebrates this festival every year undoubtedly attains the eternal abode where Lord Nrsimhadeva resides.

The best time for celebrating the pavitraropana festival is on the twelfth day of the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Sravana. If, due to some impediment, the festival cannot be performed on that day then it can be celebrated on the twelfth day of the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra.

When the sun enters the Karkata-rasI, one should celebrate the festival of pavitraropana, on the twelfth day of the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Sravana.

One can also celebrate the festival of pavitraropana on DvadasI, either in the month of Bhadra or Asvina, when the sun travels to either the Simha-rasI or Kanya-rasl.

O n the DvadasI in the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Sravana or Bhadra, one should faithfully offer a sacred thread to Lord Hari.

If, due to some impediment, the best days are not available, then one may celebrate this festival in the month of Asvina, before Lord Hari wakes up from His mystic slumber.

All Vaisnavas should nicely celebrate the two most important festivals in the month of Bhadra. These are: the appearance day of Lord Krsna, or Krsna Janmastami, and the appearance day of Lord Vamanadeva, or Sravana Dvadasl.

It is the duty of everyone to observe the vow of Janmastami because Janmastami is eternal, the destroyer of all sins, and the bestower of the ultimate goal of life.

O Lord Acyuta, kindly explain to me in detail about the vow of Janmastami. How did this vow come into existence? What are the benefits of performing this vow and what are the rules and regulations prescribed for its observance?

200 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA devaki mam parisvajya krtvotsange ruroda ha O Yudhisthira, after the miscreant demon, Kamsa, was killed at Mathura, My mother, Devaki, took Me on her lap with great affection and began to cry.

At the completion of the wrestling competition, Devakl-devI entered the wrestling arena, where she was surrounded by the members of the Kukkura and Andhaka dynasties, who worshiped and glorified her and Vasudeva. At that time, she placed Me on her lap and lamented. With great affection, she addressed Me, saying, "My dear son! My dear son!" Vasudeva also, with a choked voice that was filled with humility, and with tears in his eyes, embraced Me, along with Balarama, and spoke these words.

Today my life has become successful and glorious because I have been able to see my two sons!

O King, after seeing the jubilant Vasudeva and Devaki, all those assembled there began to speak, after offering their obeisances.

O Janardaria, only today are we experiencing happiness in our lives because the wicked Karhsa has been killed in this wrestling arena. O Madhusudana, be pleased with us and kindly remove all the doubts within our minds without delay.

O Janardana! O Lord of Vaikuntha, please inform us of the day when mother Devaki gave birth to You so that we can celebrate it with great

202 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA pomp. O Kesava, please be merciful to us because we are souls completely surrendered unto Your devotional service.

When the assembled people spoke in this way, Vasudeva became astonished to hear their words. He joyfully looked at Balarama, and with his bodily hair standing on end, he spoke as follows: Let the desire of the people be fulfilled. Please tell them what they want to know.

O son of Prtha, as requested by My father, I revealed the truth of My birth in the presence of all the assembled people.

Everyone should celebrate My appearance day, from the age of eight to the age of eighty. The four classes of men—brdhmanas, ksatriyas, vaisyas, and sudras, as well as those who outside these four varnas, should faithfully observe this vow.

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 203

O assembled people, when the sun entered the constellation, Sirhha, on the eighth day of the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra, when the sky was filled with clouds, and the moon was in the house Vrsabha, and was joined by the Rohini naksatra, I appeared at midnight from the womb of Devakl, as the son Vasudeva.

Thus, My appearance became known as the JanamastamI vrata and it was celebrated throughout the world. On this day, you should also celebrate a festival in the honor of goddess Durga. You can begin this festival in Mathura, and soon it will spread throughout the entire world.

After hearing these words of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, everyone began to observe the vow of JanamastamI every year, with faith and devotion. As a result, there was peace, happiness, and good fortune everywhere.

204 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

The observance of Janamastami is accepted as an eternal function in three ways—the Supreme Lord becomes pleased, it is the injunction of the scriptures, and a sin is incurred by not observing this vow.

skdnde (In the Skanda Purana it is stated) prahlddddyais ca bhu-pdlaih krtd janmdstami subha sraddhaya paraya visnoh pritaye krsna vallabha For the pleasure of Lord Visnu, even great kings like Prahlada Maharaja faithfully observed the vow of Janamastami, which is very dear to Lord Krsna.

It is the duty of everyone to celebrate Janamastami every year, on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana, when it is joined by the RohinI naksatra, for the satisfaction of the Supreme Lord, who carries a cakra in His hand.

is found in the Visnu'rahasya Purdna, it is stated) sudrdnnena tu yat pdparh sava hasta stha bhojane tat pdparh labhate pumbhir jayantydrh bhojane krte Eating on JanamastamI is equivalent to eating food cooked by a sudra, or eating out of the h a n d of a dead man.

O exalted sage, eating o n JanamastamI is equivalent to eating the flesh of a vulture, a donkey, a crow, a hawk, or a h u m a n being.

O best oi sages, t h e r e is n o d o u b t t h a t w h e n o n e eats o n JanamastamI, h e eats all the sins of the three worlds.

206 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O n Janamastami, if one eats even a tiny morsel of food, his body will be constantly tormented by the Yamadutas after death.

O King, the foolish person who eats on Krsna JayantI will not be delivered from hellish life, even if he observes the vow for Dvadasl.

Those who eats on Krsna JayantI will take one hundred past and future generations with him to hell.

tatraiva (In the same literature it is stated) ye na kurvanti janantah krsna janmdstami vratam te bhavanti maha prdjna vydid mahati kdnane O greatly learned one, those who do not observe the vow of Krsna Janamastami, in spite of knowing its exalted position, become snakes in the jungle.

O foremost sage, the sin of killing a brahmana, drinking wine, killing a cow, or killing a woman, captures a person who is averse to following the vow of Janamastami. Such a person will not receive any happiness, both in this life and the next.

O intelligent one, a woman who does not observe the vow of Janamastami every year becomes a female snake in a dense forest.

One who does not observe the vow of Janamastami, which occurs on the eighth day in the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of Sravana, is born as a cruel demon.

The fierce, cruel Yamadutas, who carry powerful weapons in their hands, become angry at those who do not observe the vow of Janamastami, which occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Sravana.

208 SRI H A R I - B H AKTI-VILASA If one fails to celebrate Krsna's appearance day, he will suffer in hell, under the direction of Yamaraja.

One who gives up the vow of JanamastamI and observes some other vows with fasting, cannot attain any pious merit, either in this life or in the next.

It is the duty of all devotees to celebrate JanamastamI, even with a very small budget, for the pleasure of the son of Devakl. One should not fail to celebrate Lord Krsna's appearance day otherwise, one will be forced to reside in hell for a kalpa.

Janamastami that is found in the Bhuvisottara Purana it is stated) ekena upavdsena krtena kuru nandana sapta janma krtdt papdn mucyate ndtra sarhsayah

O scion of the Kuru dynasty, there is no doubt that by fasting on Janamastami, even once, one is freed from the reactions to all sinful activities committed during his previous seven lifetimes.

By observing the vow of Janamastami, one receives good children, good health, and unlimited good fortune. One also become truly righteous and ascends to Vaikuntha after death.

O Yudhisthira, while residing in Vaikuntha, such a person will freely travel in his airplane and enjoy transcendental happiness for millions of years. Thereafter, when his piety becomes exhausted, he will return to this material world.

O Partha, after returning to this world, he will enjoy all kinds of prosperity, remain free from all miseries, become a follower of all religious

210 SRI H A R I - B H AKTI-VILAS A principles, enjoy a kingdom, possess seemingly limitless cows, and enjoy a long duration of life. Thereafter, he will attain the supreme abode of the Lord and never again return to this world of birth and death. Many handsome and magnanimous souls will take birth in his family.

O foremost of Pandavas, that country where people always celebrate My auspicious appearance day, whether by writing about it, or even depicting it in the form of a painting and then decorating it with various ornaments, will never face any fear of enemies, will receive sufficient rainfall, and never experience drought.

In that house where My appearance day is celebrated, as it was previously observed by My mother, Devaki, there will be all kinds of prosperity, no fear because of a natural calamity, no hellish conditions,

and no fear because of animals, snakes, a mongoose, diseases born of sinful activities, rogues, or thieves.

O son of Pandu, in that house where discussions of My appearance from the womb of Devaki take place, and are kept in the form of a book, no son will be born dead, and there will be no fear of miscarriage, disease, or widowhood, as well as no misfortune, pride, or quarrel.

O Partha, there is no doubt that one in whose house the festival of JanmastamI is traditionally celebrated will attain the abode of Lord Visnu.

The festival of JanmastamI, which gives pleasure to the mind and eyes of all who observe it, immediately takes away all sinful reactions, and it bestows great pleasure upon the cowherd, Nanda Maharaja. One who worships Vasudeva and Devaki on JanmastamI will be blessed with

212 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA good children, and at the end of his life, he will attain the abode of Lord Visnu.

O best oi the twice-born, when the Rohinl naksatra is present on the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra, it is celebrated as Jayanti, and it takes away all sins. When one faithfully worships Lord Govinda on this auspicious day, all the reactions to the sins he committed as a child, as a youth, and as an old man, as well as all sins committed during his last seven births, are completely destroyed.

There is no doubt that pious activities, such as the execution of fire sacrifice and giving of charity, that is performed on this day, will yield one hundred times more benefit than on other days. As a result, all of one's desires become fulfilled. Fasting on the auspicious day of Jayanti destroys all grave sinful reactions.

For one who worships Lord Hari by fasting on the auspicious day of JayantI, all the reactions to sins committed during his previous one hundred lifetimes are completely destroyed.

Being worshiped on this day, Lord Krsna destroys all the reactions to sinful activities committed during one's childhood, youth, and old age.

If the auspicious moment of JayantI occurs on the day of Krsna's appearance, then whatever pious activities one performs, such as giving charity, performing sacrifice, studying the Vedas, chanting mantras, or undergoing austerity, will award him one hundred times the merit.

Sri Krsna Jayanti is very auspicious and pure, it awards one wealth and prosperity, and it take away all sins. Those who faithfully observe

214 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA this vow by fasting and performing the other prescribed duties will attain pure devotional service to Lord Krsna.

Janmastmi, as recorded in the Purva Khanda of the Brahma Purdna) yd tu krsndstarni ndma visrutd vaisnavi tithih tasyah prabhdvam dsritya putdh sarve kalau jandh The auspicious day, Krsna JanmastamI, is very dear to Lord Visnu. If the people of Kali-yuga take shelter of this day, they will become purified.

When the eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana is enhanced by the presence of the Rohini naksatra, it becomes known everywhere as Jayantl. Such an auspicious day possesses the power of destroying all kinds of sinful reactions.

Those who, in this age of Kali, worship Krsna, the Lord of the demigods, by remaining awake all night and fasting on the auspicious

day of Krsna JanmastamI, are to be considered most glorious. They will never have to fear the insurmountable material existence. In fact, the personality of Kali cannot display his influence wherever such a person resides.

that is found in the same Purana it is stated) ya esa bhagavdn visnur devakydrh vasudevatah jdtah karhsa vadhdrtharh hi tad dinarh mangaldyanarn The day when Lord Krsna appeared from the womb of Devakl as the son of Vasudeva, for the purpose of killing Karhsa, is most auspicious.

If the eighth day in the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of Sravana is joined by the RohinI naksatra, it becomes especially auspicious. Observing a festival on this day awards one liberation.

One should not be astonished that the day when Lord Krsna, the eternal Supreme Personality of Godhead, who performs newer and newer pastimes, appeared within this world, is the bestower of liberation to those who celebrate it.

216 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

Observing the vow of Krsna Janmastami is supremely auspicious, it is the supreme form of austerity, and it is the supreme religious principle in devotional service.

that is found in the Skanda Purdna it is stated) krsna janmastami loke prasiddhd papa nasini kratu koti soma, tv esa tirthayuta sataih soma Krsna Janmastami, which is famous throughout the world, relieves those who observe it of all sinful reactions. It awards pious merit that is equal to that earned by the performance of ten million horse sacrifices, and visiting ten million holy places.

The benefit obtained by giving one thousand brown cows in charity every day is obtained simply by fasting on Krsna Jayantl.

The same result one obtains by donating one thousand gold coins at Kuruksetra is obtained just by fasting on Krsna Jayantl.

O learned brahmana, whatever fruit one attains by giving millions of jewels in charity is attained by fasting on Krsna Jayanti.

The benefit of fasting on Krsna Jayanti is equal to the benefit obtained by digging thousands of ponds and wells, building temples, giving ten million daughters in charity, serving one's parents and elderly people; giving up one's life for the sake of his spiritual master, a brahmana, or one's husband; traveling to holy places, observing vows, and the vow of truthfulness.

218 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA rajasuya sahasresu sata varsdgnihotratah ekenaivopavasena jayantydrh tat phalarh smrtam The benefit obtained by living without any fixed residence, by performing severe austerities, by conducting one thousand Rajasuya sacrifices, or by performing agnihotri sacrifices for one hundred years, is obtained simply by fasting, even once, on Krsna Jayanti.

As a result of fasting on Krsna Jayanti, many persons in the past have attained sdyujya or sarupya mukti, after becoming kings, or emperors, or other glorious personalities.

O best of sages, Krsna JanmastamI, which occurs in the month of Sravana, fulfills all of one's desires, including those for religiosity, economic development, sense gratification, and liberation.

O exalted brdhmana, those who observe the vow of JanmastamI, or cause others to observe it, are certainly the best of human beings. Indeed, Laksmi continually resides in their houses.

O great sage, according to the Vedas and Puranas, there is no vow equal to or greater than the vow of Krsna JanmastamI.

O best of the twice-born, upon seeing a person following the vow of JanmastamI, according to the prescribed rules and regulations, Yamaraja's face becomes pale as he wipes clean the account of his sinful activities.

By worshiping Lord Hari, along with Devaki, on JanmastamI, one is transferred from the path to Yamaraja's abode, to the path leading to the supreme abode of Lord Visnu.

O sage, by observing the vow of JanamastamI, one is blessed so that he is able to remember Lord Krsna at the time of death, making his mission

220 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA in life successful. Therefore, to attain liberation from material existence, you should observe the vow of Janamastami, by my order.

found in the Brahmanada Purdna, Suta Gosvami spoke this verse) ity etat kathitam asesa sdstra guhyam sri krsna vrata mahimdnuvarnanarh yat srutvaitat sakrd api patakair vimukto detente vrajati naro murdri lokam One who hears, even once, the glories of Krsna JanamastamI, which is a very confidential subject of the scriptures, is freed from all sinful reactions and at the end of his life, he is transferred to the abode of Lord Murari.

The eighth day of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra is to be observed by fasting. If this day is joined by the Rohini naksatra, it awards excellent benefit. If, at midnight, it is joined by Rohini, it is even more auspicious and awards more pious merit. If it falls on Monday or Wednesday it is more auspicious and if it overlaps the ninth day, it is even more sacred.

visnu rahasye (In the Visnu.~rahasya it is stated) prdjdpatyarksa samyuktd krsna nabhasi cdstami

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 221 muhurtam api labhyeta saivoposyd mahd phald If one has the opportunity of observing, even for a moment, the vow of Janamastami joined with the Rohini naksatra, either in the month of Sravana or Bhadra, it will award him immense benefit. Such a day should be observed by fasting.

One must observe fasting on that very auspicious AstamI when, during the course of the day and night, even a moment's presence of Rohini naksatra is detected.

If the AstamI of the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra is joined by the Rohini naksatra, it is known as Jayanti.

222 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O exalted brahmana, when the AstamI is joined by the RohinI naksatra during the fortnight of the waning moon, it is known as Jayanti. This sacred day frees one of all sinful reactions. By observing a fast on this day, all the reactions to one's sinful activities that were committed during childhood, youth, and old age, as well as those committed during many previous lifetimes, are vanquished.

When the AstamI of the dark fortnight in the month of Sravana joins the RohinI naksatra, it is known as Jayantl. By fasting on that day, all of one's sins are eradicated, and one becomes blessed with victory and piety.

O King, if, on the AstamI of the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of either Sravana or Bhadra, for even a short period, RohinI naksatra is observed, that day should be known as Jayantl. On that day, one should observe fasting very conscientiously.

O King, if Lord Govinda is worshiped and is the object of meditation on JayantI, He personally destroys all the reactions to mental, verbal, and physical sinful activities committed during seven previous lifetimes.

O maintainer of the earth, it has been said that by fasting on JayantI while observing the prescribed rules and regulations, all one's sinful reactions are destroyed. One should not entertain any doubt in this regard.

O King, those who completely fasted on the auspicious AstamI during the dark fortnight when it was joined with the RohinI naksatra, had performed all kinds of pious acts in Satya-yuga, Treta-yuga and Dvapara- yuga.

If, for even a very short period, there is the presence of the RohinI naksatra, either before or after midnight on AstamI, it is celebrated as JayantI, the vanquisher of all sinful reactions.

224 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

When the RohinI naksatra joins AstamI at midnight and creates a most auspicious moment for Krsna's appearance, if one worships the Lord, all the reactions to the sins committed during his previous three lifetimes are vanquished.

By fasting and worshiping Lord Krsna when AstamI is joined by the RohinI naksatra in the month of Sravana, all of one's miseries will cease. This auspicious moment occurs if the moon rises at midnight.

If the RohinI naksatra is present for even a moment, either before or after midnight on Astami during the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra—at that auspicious moment, the inexhaustible Lord Hari, the master of the universe, who is decorated with the Kaustubha gem, makes His appearance. One should fast that day and remain awake the entire night. This particular night is called Jayanti. Lord Janardana makes his advent at that auspicious time. One should worship the Supreme Lord on this day with a controlled mind and purified heart.

O foremost ruler of men, Lord Govinda appeared in His four-armed form at midnight on Astami, when was joined by the RohinI naksatra. One should worship Lord Govinda, according to his means.

226 SRI H A R I - B H A K T I - V I L A S A uposito 'rcayet krsnarh yasoddrh devakirh tathd One must fast on the AstamI during the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra, especially if the moon is present in the RohinI naksatra and Vrsabha-rasl. One should worship Lord Krsna, mother Yasoda, and mother Devakl on this day.

Mother Devakl gave birth to Lord Krsna at the most auspicious moment of JayantI, when at midnight, the moon was present with the RohinI naksatra in the Vrsabha-rasl on the AstamI of the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra. Therefore, on that day, one should observe a complete fast and offer worship to Lord Krsna with a controlled mind.

One who observes fasting on AstamI when there is the presence of the Rohini naksatra in the month of Sravana, especially if it falls on a Monday or Wednesday and is touched by the presence of NavamI, delivers ten million generations of his family and delivers from a ghostly existence those family members who are in that degraded condition.

O Vibhu, if NavamI begins while being overlapped by AstamI for a short period after sunrise and if it occurs on a Wednesday and is joined by the Rohini naksatra, such a day is rarely obtained. It may occur once in a hundred years.

Goddess Yogamaya appeared on NavamI and Lord Hari appeared on AstamI. Therefore, when AstamI is mixed with NavamI on a Wednesday, fasting should be observed.

W h e n t h e previous day is either a Monday or a Wednesday a n d t h e next day is joined by the Rohini naksatra, a n d if AstamI overlaps Navami, fasting should be observed o n Navami.

If Navami begins before t h e end of AstamI a n d if for even a moment t h e Rohini naksatra is present on AstamI, t h e n by observing a fast o n t h a t day, a person can liberate ten million generations of his family.

If the AstamI of the dark fortnight in the m o n t h of Bhadra overlaps Navami, t h e n everyone should worship t h a t auspicious day by fasting and celebrating a festival, especially women.

Even if t h e AstamI of the waning m o o n in t h e m o n t h of Bhadra has no presence of t h e Rohini naksatra, or Navami tithi, it should still be observed

by fasting and performing other religious duties. Especially auspicious moments are described here just to show the special benefit one obtains by observing such vows. Actually, these particularly auspicious moments are not essential. Because these moments are very rare, if one were to wait for them to occur then, the possibility of observing Janmastami would be remote. It is only for this reason that one is advised to reject an Astami that is contaminated by the presence of SaptamI and fast only on a pure Astami. Just as one is forbidden to observe a mixed EkadasI, one is forbidden to observe a mixed Janmastami, and this will be described later on.

brahma vaivarte (In the Brahma-vaivarta Purdna it is stated) varjaniya prayatnena saptami sahitdstami sa rksdpi na kartavya saptami samyutdstami One should take special care to avoid observing an Astami that is contaminated by the presence of Saptami, even if it is joined by the RohinI naksatra.

Just as the naturally pure five kinds of milk products are to be rejected if they are touched by wine, even if an Astami is joined by the RohinI naksatra, it is to be rejected if it is contaminated by the presence of Saptami.

230 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

Just as an EkadasI which is touched by the presence of DasamI is rejected, even though it is joined by the Sravana naksatra, an Astami which has been touched by the presence of Saptami during sunrise should definitely be rejected, even if it is joined by the RohinI naksatra.

One should reject an Astami that is touched by the presence of Saptami. One should observe this vow the next day, if it is without the presence of the RohinI naksatra.

The son of Devakl appeared on an Astami that was joined by the RohinI naksatra, and which was not touched by Saptami.

Even if Astami is joined by the presence of the RohinI naksatra, it should still be rejected if it is contaminated by the presence of Saptami, either during the day or at midnight.

If Astami is touched by the presence of SaptamI, it should be given up, even if there is the presence of the Rohini naksatra. In that case, one should observe fasting on the next pure Navaml.

One should never observe the vow of Astami if it is overlapped by SaptamI, even if it has the presence of the Rohini naksatra. In such a situation, one should observe fasting and other practices on Navaml.

O foremost brahmana, if Astami is touched by even a fraction of a second of SaptamI, it should be rejected, just as a pot of Ganges water should be rejected if it is touched by even a drop of wine.

Astami that overlaps Navaml and is without the presence of any auspicious star, should be observed. Even if there is the presence of an

232 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA auspicious star but at the same time, it overlaps Saptami, such an AstamI should certainly be rejected.

A learned devotees should reject observing an AstamI that is touched by the presence of Saptami because by observing such a mixed vow, one loses his piety, just as darkness is lost when the sun rises.

If AstamI is completed without overlapping the next day and if the Rohinl naksatra is present at midnight, it must be observed.

The vows to be observed on AstamI that have been mentioned in literature such as the Agni Purana are meant for non-devotees and were created by the illusory energy of the Lord.

In ancient times, with a fear that persons who strictly follow these vows may assume their positions, the demigods and sages covered the pure vow of Astami by propagating a false vow of an Astami that overlaps the Saptami.

Thus, we have presented the bona-fide methods for observing the spiritual vows, in accordance with authentic Vedic literaute, such as the Nrsirhha-paricarya, which was compiled by the ancient and exalted Vaisnava, Krsna Devacarya, who was well-versed in all the scriptures.

If, on a pure Astami, there is the presence of the Rohini naksatra and it remains for two days, one should observe fasting on the first day and break the fast on the second day, after the presence of the Rohini naksatra has ceased.

has been described during a discussion of the process of spiritual initiation) atha bhddrdsitdstamydrh prddurdsit svayarh harih brahmand prdrthitah purvarh devakydrh krpayd vibhuh Thereafter the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Hari, being prayed for by Brahma, although all-pervading, appeared in this world from the womb of Devaki on the Astami of the fortnight of the waning moon in the month of Bhadra.

234 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

To destroy the demons, the Supreme Lord appeared on that day, which was enhanced by the presence of the Rohinl naksatra. Therefore, one should celebrate a grand festival on that auspicious and pure day.

According to their capacity, everyone—brahmanas, ksatriyas, vaisyas and sudras—should observe complete fasting on this auspicious day.

One who eats on Krsna JanmastamI is to be considered the lowest among mankind because he will reside in the darkest regions of hell until the time of annihilation.

Those learned devotees who observe fasting on Astami when it is joined by the Rohinl naksatra at midnight, achieve the merit of performing ten million sacrifices.

If AstamI is joined by the Rohini naksatra, on either a Monday or Wednesday, then it is known as Jayantl. Only some most fortunate souls receive the opportunity to observe such a day.

O brdhmana, by completely fasting on Jayantl, one is freed from the reactions to all the sinful activities he had committed during his previous ten million lifetimes and at the end, he will be transferred to Vaikuntha.

If an AstamI overlaps Navaml, it is referred to as umdmahesvarl. Those who desire to earn pious merit should fast on this day, even if it is devoid of the presence of Rohini.

If AstamI overlaps Navaml, it should be observed by fasting but if it overlaps Saptami, it should be rejected. An AstamI that is contaminated

236 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA by SaptamI destroys one's previously accumulated piety. By fasting on such an AstamI, one becomes averse to Lord Hari and incurs the sin of killing a brahmana.

Great sages have declared that simply because of the presence of an auspicious star, a vow does not award auspicious merit. The day must be suitable for observing a fast and only then can the vow be considered auspicious.

After fasting, one should break the fast the next day, after the presence of the naksatra has ceased.

If the duration of a particular day, or the presence of an auspicious star, continues until the next night, then breaking the fast should be observed during the daytime otherwise, the observance of vow will be considered broken.

When AstamI and NavamI are combined, this is called Uma Mahesvari.

Siva is worshiped on AstamI and his consort, Uma, is worshiped on Navaml. For this reason, a combination of AstamI and NavamI is considered to be the combination of Siva and Durga. Worship on this day bestows immense benefit.

It is recommended that one should fast on this day, even if there is no presence of the Rohini naksatra. This is the opinion of great sages.

From the word api in text 386, it is to be understood that if AstamI overlaps the next night, without the presence of Rohini, this indicates that the day is contaminated by the touch of Saptami and therefore should be rejected.

238 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA In the same text, the phrase, 'if the duration of the day or if the star,' generally refers to the overlapping of the day and the naksatra. This leads one to the conclusion that one must not observe an AstamI that is touched by Saptaml.

The six kinds of evidence that are found in the philosophical literatures called Purva-mimdmsd are—sruti, linga, vdkyd, prakarana, sthana and samakhya. Each of these kinds of evidence is weaker than the previous one. Therefore, by all means, sruti is to be considered the best evidence. If a vow is taken on an impure AstamI, then the question of breaking of the vow arises. This has been previously explained. According to the statement of Skanda Purana found in text 365, a JanmastamI contaminated by the touch of Saptaml at the time of sunrise should be rejected. In the Nrsimha-paricarya, this has been discussed. Various statements regarding a pure DvadasI without the touch of DaSaml, or AstamI without the touch of Saptaml, have been refuted on the strength

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 239 of the evidence quoted in text 372, which is from the Skanda Purana. On the strength of those statements, perfect arrangements for Vaisnava sampradayas and non-Vaisnava sampradayas have been made.

There are two kinds of created beings in this world, godly and demoniac. Those dedicated to the devotional service of Lord Visnu are godly, and those opposed to such service are demoniac.

If Astaml is without the touch of Saptami, and the presence of the RohinI naksatra, then the parana should be observed before noon the next day. If the duration of Astaml extends beyond noon, then the parana should be observed at the end of Astaml. If the presence of the naksatra continues throughout that day, then the parana should be observed at the end of the presence of the naksatra. If the tithi and naksatra are both extended, then the parana should be observed at the end of either one.

O Bharata, the best time for parana is either at the end of the presence of the naksatra or the tithi.

k 240 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

When great sages who are well-versed in the Vedic literature observe fasting on an AstamI with the presence of RohinI, they usually observe the parana either at the end of the presence of the naksatra, or at the conclusion of the tithi.

The knowers of the Vedas understand that if the tithi and naksatra both extend to the day of parana, then the parana should be observed at the conclusion of either.

Or, for those who have the ability, the parana should be observed at the conclusion of both, and for those who are unable to do that, the parana should be observed at the conclusion of either of the two.

The pdrana for any tithi that is joined by the presence of an auspicious naksatra should be observed at the conclusion of the presence of that naksatra, except for the Rohini and Sravana naksatras.

Do not observe the pdrana during AstamI, or when the Rohini naksatra is present. If one does so, this will destroy all of his previously accumulated pious merit and spoil the benefit of his fast.

Observance of pdrana before the conclusion of the tithi 's pious merit eight times over. Observance of pdrana during the presence of the naksatra spoils one's pious merit four times over.

Some Vaisnavas observe the pdrana for the supremely sacred day of JanmastamI only after completing the grand celebration of a festival of devotional service.

242 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA One who performs a vow should observe the parana, either at the end of the tithi, the next day, or at the end of the festival, the same day.

O brdhmana, if you wish to destroy all your sinful reactions in a moment, then always accept the remnants of food partaken by the Lord of the universe at the end of a festival.

Just as one is advised to observe all the prescribed duties mentioned in relation to EkadasI, as well as for the days before and after, one is also advised to observe all the prescribed rules and regulations mentioned for AstamI, as well as for Saptami and Navaml.

in the Uttara Khanda of the Bhavisya Purana) tad vratarh kidrsarh deva lokai sarvair anusthitam janmastami vratarh ndma pavitram purnsottama O Supreme Personality of Godhead, what is the procedure for observing the vow of Janmastami? Everyone observes this vow.

O Supreme Lord! O Madhusudana, You are the creator of human society and their benefactor as well. You are inexhaustible. You are very pleased with a person who observes the vow of JanmastamI. Please be merciful to me and explain the rules and regulations for observing JanmastamI.

O Partha, when JanmastamI approaches, one should rise early in the morning, brush his teeth, and then make a vow with a controlled mind to follow the prescribed rules and regulations.

O descendent of Kuru, there is no doubt that by observing a fast on JanmastamI, even once, one is freed from all the reactions to the sins that he committed during his previous seven lifetimes.

244 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA Fasting also means to stay aloof from sinful activities and cultivate good qualities. Fasting does not only refer to abstaining from food and drink.

O lotus-eyed Lord, today I will observe a complete fast and remain aloof from all kinds of sense gratification. O Acyuta! I will break my fast tomorrow. Please be the object of my shelter.

Thereafter, at noon, one should bathe in the pure water of a river, or other reservoir of water, and construct a very beautiful room for the worship of the Lord.

This room should be decorated with jewels, such as rubies, fine cloth, and fresh fragrant flower garlands.

According to the custom observed in Gokula, one should arrange everything very neatly, invite all the pious ladies, and then install a pitcher filled with water while ringing bells, playing drums, and singing bhajans.

This room should contain barley, water, marks of the svastika> iron chains, tridents, ghee lamps, goats, churning rods, incense, ashes, mustard seeds, and a burning fire. The room should be guarded by well-dressed doormen who are equipped with weapons, such as clubs.

Inside the room, there should be an altar for Goddess Sasthi that was built in the prescribed manner. In this way, according to one's means, one should construct a very nice room.

In that room, deities of mothers, such as Yasoda, should be placed. These deities may be made of gold, silver, copper, brass, clay, wood, or other metal, or one may use a painting.

The deity of mother Yasoda should have a golden complexion. She should be half-lying on an opulent couch. Her looks should be that of an ascetic and she has just delivered a child. Milk is flowing from her breasts and she looks very happy for the moment.

The Deity of child Krsna should be lying on the couch with His eyes closed as He drinks milk from His mother's breast. He is decorated with the mark of Srivatsa and His complexion should resemble the color of a blue lotus flower. Or, a four-armed effulgent Deity can be installed upon the couch, holding a conch shell, disc, club, and bow in His hands, and wearing a garland of forest flowers.

A deity of mother Yasoda should also be placed there, along with her newly-born jewel-like baby girl.

Outside the room, there should be many paintings of the demigods, planets, Nagas, Yaksas, Vidyadharas, serpents, and demons. They should be seen standing in a mood of awe and reverence, with flower garlands in their hands. It should appear as if they are traveling through the sky.

Vasudeva should also be seen there, with a trident and shield in his hands.

O foremost king, this Vasudeva is the incarnation of Kasyapa, Devaki is the incarnation of Aditi, Baladeva is the incarnation of Sesa, Yasoda is the incarnation of Aditi as well, Nanda Maharaja is the incarnation of Prajapati Daksa, Gargamuni is the incarnation of the four-headed Brahma, and Kartisa is the incarnation of Kalanemi. Their paintings, or deities, should be placed within the room.

248 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

Paintings of demons, such as Arista, Canura, Dhenuka, and Kesi, who were all well-equipped with weapons, should be placed within that room. They should look as if they are bewildered by Yogamaya and influenced by Nidradevi, the goddess of sleep.

One should also decorate the room with paintings of dancing celestial women and singing Gandharvas. On one side of the room, there should be a painting of the Yamuna river, in which the serpent, Kaliya, is seen, and on the banks, Nanda Maharaja and the other cowherd men and women of Vraja.

O son of Prtha, after decorating the room in this way, one should worship the deity of mother Devaki, who has just given birth to child Krsna, with offerings of sandalwood paste, flowers, rice paddy, fruit, and other articles.

One should also offer varieties of fruit, such as coconut, pumpkin, dates, pomegranates, betel nuts, oranges, tangerines, and jackfruit, which grow in different parts of the country and at different times. One should also offer varieties of sweet preparations, and fragrant seasonal flowers should be offered in the course of the worship. One should meditate upon the various incarnations of the Supreme Lord, as described previously, and worship them by chanting the appropriate mantras.

O mother Devakl, you are non-different from Aditi, the mother of the demigods. You destroy all of one's sinful reactions. I will now worship you, because 1 am greatly frightened of the formidable material existence. You are also worshiped by Mahadeva. O beautiful-faced one! O avowed chaste lady! Just as you are pleased by the worship offered to you by the demigods, please be merciful to me by accepting my worship, which was offered to you with devotion.

250 SRI H ARI-BHAKTI-VILAS A

O goddess, just as you have become supremely blissful by receiving your dear son, may you and your son bestow supreme bliss upon me.

All glories to the beautiful goddess, Devaki, who is surrounded by the best of singers, known as Kinnaras, who beautifully play their stringed instruments She is served by the Kinnaras, who are always ready to provide her with various articles, such as a mirror. She is always smiling, while lying on an excellent couch with her son, whose beauty is enchanting. She is the mother of the demigods.

Thereafter, one should worship LaksmI, the goddess of fortune, who is sitting in the padmasana next to mother Devakls's lotus feet, and who is engaged in massaging the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord, as well as those of Devaki. She should be worshiped by the mantra laksml devyai namah.

O Madhusudana, You incarnate in innumerable forms. No one in this world can estimate the number of Your incarnations. The demigods, headed by Brahma or Siva, do not know Your actual glories. Today, I will worship You in Your, form as a child, lying on the lap of Your mother.

Thereafter, initiated brdhmanas, ksatriyas and vaisyas should worship the Lord's associates, such as Vasudeva, by chanting their names in the fourth dative case, beginning with orh and ending the mantra with namah. (For example: orh vasudevaya namah) Those who are not initiated, as well as women and sudras, should not utter the sacred syllable orh. Instead, they should simply chant namah. (For example: namah vasudevaya namah).

Some exalted twice-born persons desire to observe some other rules and regulations in this connection. When the moon rises in the evening, one should offer arghya to the moon-god while remembering Lord Hari.

252 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILAS A apardjitarh vasudevarh mddhavam madhusudanam vardharh pundarikdksam nrsirhharh dharam dharam ddmodararh padmandbharh kesavam garuda dhvajam govindam acyutarh krsnarh anantarh purusottamam adhoksajam jagad bljarh sarga sthity anta kdranam anddi nidhanarh visnurh trilokesam trivikramam ndrdyanarh caturbdhurh sankha cakra gadd dharam. pitdmbara dharam nityarh vana mala vibhusitam srivatsdhkam jagat seturh sri patirh sri dharam harim devaki garbha sambhutam daitya sainya vindsanam grhdridrghyam idam deva govinddya namo namah Before offering arghya, one should remember the holy names of Lord Hari, such as Anagha, Vamana, Sauri, Vaikuntha, Purusottama, Aparajita, Vasudeva, Madhava, Madhusudana, Varaha, Pundarlkaksa, Nrsirhha, Dharanidhara, Damodara, Padmanabha, Kesava, Garudadhvaja, Govinda, Acyuta, Krsna, Ananta, Purusottama, Adhoksaja, Jagadblja, Sarga-sthityanta-karana, Anadi-nidhana, Visnu, Trilokesa, Trivikrama, Narayana, Caturbahu, Sankha-cakra-gadadhara, Pltambaradhara, Nitya, Vanamalavibhusita, Srivatsanka, Jagatsetu, Sripati, Sridhara, Hari, Devaklgarba-sambhuta, and Daitya-sainya-vinasana. O Supreme Lord, please accept this arghya. O Govinda, I offer my obeisances unto You.

O Lord Govinda, You are Yogesvara, Yogasambhava, and Yogapati. My obeisances unto You.

O Lord Govinda, You are Yajnesvara, Yajnasambhava, and Yajfiapati. I bow down to You.

O Lord Govinda, You are Visvesvara, Visvasambhava, and Visvapati. My obeisances unto You.

O Lord Govinda, You are Dharmesvara, Dharmasambhava, and Dharmapati. I offer my repeated obeisance to You.

254 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O lord, who appeared from the ocean of milk! O lord, who was born from the eye of Atri! O Sasanka, please accept this arghya, along with Rohinl.

Thereafter, one should invoke and then offer worship to Sasanka, Rohinl, Devaki, Vasudeva, Yasoda, Nanda, and Balabhadra, as well as the cowherd men, women, and cows of Gokula, after installing them on the floor that has been purified by the chanting of mantras. By performing this worship, one becomes freed from all sinful reactions. There is no doubt about this.

At midnight, one should pour ghee mixed with gur on the wall so that it drips onto the floor. That night, one should perform the worship of goddess Sasthi, cut the umbilical cord, and observe the name-giving ceremony. In the early morning of NavamI, one should celebrate a festival in honor of Goddess Durga, just as one celebrates a festival in honor of My appearance.

After immersing the Deities, one should respectfully feed the assembled brahmanas and reward them with sufficient daksina. If one has the means, he should donate gold, silver, cows, cloth, and other items. While doing so, one should pray: May Lord Krjna be pleased with me.

Let me offer my respectful obeisances unto the Supreme Brahman, Lord Vasudeva, who manifested Himself from the womb of Devaki, as the son of Vasudeva, who is the form of pure goodness, in order to give protection to the entire material creation, especially the demigods, headed by Brahma. My obeisances to Lord Vasudeva, whose appearance is most auspicious and who is the benefactor of the cows and brahmanas. Let there be peace and prosperity. After praying in this way, one should immerse the Deities.

256 SRI H ARI-BHAKTI-VILAS A naro va yadi vd ndri yathoktarh phalam dpnuydt O son of Dharma, if anyone, whether male and female, who is naturally pious and who desires to engage in devotional service unto Me, celebrates this grand festival of My appearance every year, just as My mother, Devakl, did, he or she will obtain all the benefit mentioned in the sastra in this connection.

On the day of fasting, one should brush his teeth in the morning and then make a vow to observe the required rules and regulations. By making this vow, one receives the full benefit otherwise, one cannot expect to receive the actual benefit.

O supreme controller! O son of Devakl, today 1 will observe a complete fast and I will break the fast tomorrow. May You be my shelter during the execution of this vow of Janmastaml.

One who observes fasting should bathe in fresh water mixed with black sesame seeds. To increase his stock of pious merit, one should bathe after smearing amid pulp on his head.

After completing one's prescribed noontime duties, one should fill a new pitcher with water and place it it five kinds of metal, and then install it on the altar.

On top of the pitcher, one should keep a plate filled with camphor and aguru. The water pitcher should be decorated with a garland of white flowers, and it should be surrounded by burning incense. A wealthy person should use a golden plate, otherwise, a bamboo leaf can also be used.

On the top of that plate, one should install a golden deity of mother Devakl breast-feeding her child and, with an expression of great wonder, gazing at the beautiful face of her glorious son.

258 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA avalokamdnah premnd vai mukharh mdtur muhur muhuh The Deity of baby Krsna grasps the tip of His mother's breast while drinking milk as He gazes upon her face with great affection.

In this way, one should prepare a Deity of Sri Krsna, the Lord of the universe, and a deity of mother Devakl. One should then bathe them with five liquids, such as milk, and then apply sandalwood paste.

O greatly fortunate one, one should then worship the Lord of the universe by offering aguru, kunkum, camphor, bendmula, and musk mixed together as a pulp.

One should then dress the Lord in a white dhoti and cddara and decorate Him with a beautiful flower garland. The Deity should be decorated with varieties of fragrant flowers, such as malati, mallika, campaka and ketakl.

Unbroken bilva leaves and tulasi leaves should be offered to the Lord. All kinds of other available flowers, such as the white and yellow karavl should also be offered to Him in worship.

O exalted personality, one should also worship Lord Janardana with offerings of jasmine flowers and lotus flowers that grow on land during autumn, as well as with other flowers.

O foremost sage, one should offer varieties of seasonal fruit, such as pumpkin, coconut, dates, pomegranate, mango, banana, and others that are available at that time of the year. Varieties of food cooked in cow's ghee should also be offered.

260 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILAS A balasya caritarh visnoh pathanlyarh punah punah Then, one should light many ghee lamps in front of the Lord and decorate the room with flowers, so that it looks like a flower garden. One should arrange for singing, the playing of musical instruments, and the offering of prayers. The childhood pastimes of Lord should be recited at this time.

O foremost brahmana, one should worship Lord Hari after worshiping one's spiritual master. To worship Krsna and Devaki, one should chant these mantras, which are mentioned in the Puranas.

O Aditi, you are the mother of the demigods! You destroy all sinful reactions. 1 am greatly afraid of material existence and so, kindly accept my worship.

O woman having a most beautiful face, as you became pleased by the adoration of the demigods, kindly be pleased with my devotional adorations.

O goddess, just as you are jubilant because of receiving Lord Hari as your son, may you and your son make me joyful by being pleased with me.

O Lord Madhusudana, You appear in this world in Your innumerable incarnations. Indeed, no one in this world can even begin to estimate the number of Your incarnations.

Demigods, such as Brahma, also do not know your transcendental qualities in full. Therefore, I will simply worship your form as a child, lying on the lap of mother Devaki.

262 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA O Supreme Lord, kindly bestow up me the fulfillment of my desires and remove all my sinful reactions. O almighty Lord, You take away the miseries of Your devotees, and the fear of material existence. Please be kind to me.

In this way, after worshiping Lord Govinda, who was placed on a plate full of sesame seeds, according to the prescribed rules and regulations, one should offer arghya with a purified mind when the moon rises.

O foremost of great sages, first, one should offer arghya, which fulfills all of one's desires, to Lord Krsna, along with His mother, Devaki

O Supreme Lord, You have enacted the pastime of Your appearance to kill Kamsa, to diminish the burden of the earth, to benefit the demigods, to re-establish the principles of religion, to destroy the Kauravas, and to

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 263 annihilate the demons. Now, for my benefit, kindly accept, along with Devaki, this arghya offered by me.

Let me offer my humble obeisances as I offer this arghya to Lord Krsna, Devaki, the Lord's associates, and Laksml-devl.

Thereafter, one should happily offer arghya, consisting of yogurt, rice paddy and flowers.

You appeared from the ocean of milk. You manifested from the eye of Atri. O Indo, please accept this arghya, along with Rohini, that is offered by me.

An intelligent devotee should also offer to Lord Krsna arghya made with white coconut pulp after placing it in a conch shell.

264 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA arghya'ddnena tat punyarh labhate mdnavo bhuvi The pious merit one attains by donating the entire earth, along with its oceans and mountains, is obtained simply by offering arghya to Lord Krsna with faith.

Thereafter, one should remain awake throughout the entire night while singing the Lord's glories and discussing His pastimes as they are described in the sdstra. One should also offer to the Lord incense, a ghee lamp, food, and betel nuts.

By observing the vow of JanmastamI in this way, there is nothing else that remains to be observed. Such a worshiper receives all kinds of benefit, and at the end of life, he attains the supreme abode of Lord Hari.

Next we will discuss the process for observing JanmastamI according to the Bhavisottara Purdna and the Bhavisya Purana.

On SaptamI, one should eat havisya rice only once. Then, on the morning of AstamI, one should make a formal vow after brushing his teeth.

O lotus-eyed Lord! O Acyuta, today, I will observe a complete fast and stay aloof from all kinds of material enjoyment. Tomorrow morning, I will break my fast. Kindly give me shelter and protect my vow.

On the morning of AstamI, one should bathe Lord Krsna with pure water mixed with sesame seeds. Then, in the prescribed manner, one should dress the Lord in new garments.

At noon, the follower of the vow should bathe in a holy place, or in pure water, after smearing amid pulp on his head and placing black sesame seeds in the water.

266 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

After completing the other necessary noontime duties, one should construct a beautiful room for mother Devaki in a sanctified place.

This room should be decorated with fine silk cloth that is embroidered with jewels and other stones. A canopy should be placed on the ceiling. The gate of this room should be decorated with fruit and flowers. Placed within this room should be varieties of food prepared with cow's ghee, as well as barley, durvd grass, musical instruments, and so on. In the doorway there should be iron rods, chains, tridents, goats, and so on.

In and around the room there should be paintings depicting the pastimes of Gokula in which cowherd boys and girls should be portrayed. Paintings of the palace guards should be hung on the four sides of this room.

One should draw auspicious symbols within the room, and on top of them should be placed a pitcher filled with water. On the top of that pitcher, a golden plate, or bamboo plate, should be placed.

Upon that plate, one should install the deity of mother Devaki, made oi either gold or some other metal. She is lying on an excellent couch and milk is flowing from her breasts due to affection for her child.

Similarly, one should install a Deity of Lord Krsna, who is endowed with all transcendental qualities. He is happily lying on the lap of mother Devaki, drinking her breast milk.

In a separate place, one should install the deities, or paintings, of mother Yas'oda, along with her daughter, Yogamaya, Nanda Maharaja, mother Rohini, Baladeva, and the cowherd men and women, as well as the cows.

After completing the other necessary noontime duties, one should construct a beautiful room for mother Devaki in a sanctified place.

This room should be decorated with fine silk cloth that is embroidered with jewels and other stones. A canopy should be placed on the ceiling. The gate of this room should be decorated with fruit and flowers. Placed within this room should be varieties of food prepared with cow's ghee, as well as barley, dilrvd grass, musical instruments, and so on. In the doorway there should be iron rods, chains, tridents, goats, and so on.

In and around the room there should be paintings depicting the pastimes of Gokula in which cowherd boys and girls should be portrayed. Paintings of the palace guards should be hung on the four sides of this room.

One should draw auspicious symbols within the room, and on top of them should be placed a pitcher filled with water. On the top of that pitcher, a golden plate, or bamboo plate, should be placed.

Upon that plate, one should install the deity of mother Devakl, made of either gold or some other metal. She is lying on an excellent couch and milk is flowing from her breasts due to affection for her child.

Similarly, one should install a Deity of Lord Krsna, who is endowed with all transcendental qualities. He is happily lying on the lap of mother Devakl, drinking her breast milk.

In a separate place, one should install the deities, or paintings, of mother Yasoda, along with her daughter, Yogamaya, Nanda Maharaja, mother Rohini, Baladeva, and the cowherd men and women, as well as the cows.

268 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

A deity of Vasudeva should stand near Devakl. He has a smiling face and he holds a trident in his hand as he offers prayers, with eyes shining due to astonishment.

On the ceiling of the room there should be paintings of the demigods and sages offering prayers and obeisances, and showering flowers on Devakl and her newly-born child. The Gandharvas and Apsaras should be portrayed as singing and dancing.

The deities or paintings of Kamsa and his associates should be placed there as well. They should appear as if they are completely bewildered by Yogamaya. They are equipped with various kinds of weapons, and they tend of fall asleep. In some places within the room, there should be paintings of the Yamuna River and the Kaliya serpent.

In this way, according to one's means, one should decorate and arrange this maternity room. After placing all the articles and deities in their respective positions, one should begin the puja at night.

Among the ingredients for worship, there should be sandalwood paste, flowers, rice paddy, new cloth, ornaments, varieties of food, and seasonal fruit.

First, according to the prescribed rules and regulations that are mentioned in sastra, one should invoke and then install mother Devaki, and offer her flowers.

All glories to mother Devaki. She is surrounded by the Kinnaras, who are singing and playing stringed instruments. She is being served by these Kinnaras, who hold a water pot, mirror, and boxes in their hands. She is lying on a large couch, along with her son and she is smiling. She

270 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA is the mother of the demigods, she is most enchanting to behold, and she is the glorious mother of a glorious son.

In the same way, a learned devotee should invoke and install Lord Krsna, according to the prescribed rules and regulations, and then offer Him flowers.

Thereafter, when the moon rises, one should go outside the room, cleanse a spot nicely, and offer arghya made with grated coconut to the moon-god by placing it in a conch shell and pouring it on a lotus flower.

O Sasahkadeva! O lord who appeared from the ocean of milk! O lord who appeared from the eye of Atri, along with RohinI, please accept this arghya that is offered by me.

O lord of the night, I offer my obeisances to you! O controller of the effulgent demigods, I bow down to you. O beloved lord of RohinI, my obeisances unto you. Kindly accept this arghya.

After offering arghya to the moon-god, one should come back inside the room while chanting, Jaya! Jaya! Thereafter, one should meditate on the birth of Lord Krsna, and then offer Him arghya.

O Supreme Lord, You have enacted Your transcendental pastimes within this material world, to kill Karhsa, to diminish the burden of the earth, to benefit the demigods, to re-establish the principles of religion, to destroy the Kauravas, and to annihilate the demons. Now, for my benefit, kindly accept, along with Devakl, this arghya offered by me.

272 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA Thereafter, an intelligent devotee should, according to the prescribed rules and regulations, bathe Lord Krsna and Devakl with five substances, including milk.

O Yoges'vara! O Yoga-sambhava! O Yogapati! O Govinda! I offer my repeated obeisances unto You.

O Yogesvara! O Supreme Lord! O son of Devakl! O Yogadbhava! O eternal Lord, Govinda, I bow down to You, again and again.

O Aditi! O mother of the demigods, you destroy all sinful reactions. I have a great fear of material existence and so I worship you. After praying in this way, one should offer Devakl sandalwood paste, flowers, and other articles, while chanting namo devyai sriye.

O Lord Madhusudana, You appear in this world in innumerable incarnations. However, no one in this world can ascertain the exact number of Your incarnations. Demigods, such as Brahma, also do not know Your limitless glories. Therefore, I will simply worship Your form as a child, lying on the lap of mother Devakl. After praying to Krsna in this manner, one should offer Him padya, cloth, ornaments, incense, and so on.

O Lord Govinda, You are Yajnesvara, Yajnasambhava and Yajfiapati. I bow down to You.

O Lord Govinda, You are Visvesvara, Visvasambhava, and Visvapati. My obeisances unto you.

Vasudeva, Yasoda, Nanda Maharaja, Balarama, RohinI, and others should also be worshiped, according to the prescribed rules and regulations, while chanting their names with the appropriate mantras.

274 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA This should be followed by offering varieties of palatable foods, such as cooked rice, as well as seasonal fruit and betel nuts to the Supreme Lord.

O Lord Govinda, You are Dharmesvara, Dharmasambhava, and Dharmapati. I offer my repeated obeisances unto You.

At midnight, one should pour ghee mixed with gur on the wall so that it drips onto the floor. The ritual is called Vasudhara.

After this, the rituals in relation to Lord Krsna's appearance should be performed. To cut the umbilical cord, one should use a golden razor. Thereafter, one should worship goddess Sasthi.

Thereafter, Krsna's name giving ceremony should be performed, and His childhood pastimes should be joyfully narrated. Then, the spiritual master should be invited and requested the speak about Krsna's childhood

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 275 pastimes. There should be singing, dancing, and the playing of musical instruments. In this way, the entire night should be passed.

is recorded in the Skanda Purana this verse is found) djanmopariitarh pdparh tat ksandd eva liyate rdtrau jdgarane vipra drste nasyati dehindm O brdhmana, simply by remaining awake on the night of JanmastamI and participating in the festival, all the reactions to one's sinful activities committed since birth are at once eradicated.

On the day after JanmastamI, a Vaisnava, after completing his daily worship and other duties, should immerse the Deity of the Supreme Lord.

Recite the mantra beginning with yam devam that was mentioned earlier in this chapter.

Recite the mantra mentioned earlier in this chapter that begins with sdntir astu.

278 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

If there is the presence of the Sravana naksatra on the Dvadasi of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra, it is called Maha-dvadasi. By fasting on this day, one achieves immense benefit. One who worships Lord Acyuta with devotion on this day obtains the merit of worshiping the Supreme Lord for ten years.

The merit of performing a fire sacrifice, or other pious acts, on that day is magnified one hundred thousand times.

Know for certain that when the Dvadasi of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra is joined with the Sravana naksatra, it becomes a Maha- dvadasl. Fasting and other religious functions performed on this day yield great piety.

By observing a fast and bathing at the confluence of two sacred rivers on Sravana Dvadasi, one obtains the merit of following twelve Dvadasis.

If such a Maha-dvadasI falls on a Wednesday, it becomes even more glorious. Giving charity on that day awards one unlimited merit.

Those who worship Lord Acyuta with love and devotion on this day achieve the merit of worshiping the Supreme Lord for ten years. Pious activities, such as the performance of sacrifice, or the giving of charity, performed on this day award one a hundred times more merit.

is found in the Brahma-vaivarta Purana it is stated) mdsi bhddra pade sukla pakse yadi harer dine budha sravana samyogah prdpyate tatra pujitah prayacchati subhdn kdman vamano manasi sthitdn vijaya nama sa proktd tithih priti kari hareh If the sacred day of Dvadasi in the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra is enhanced by the presence of the Sravana naksatra, and occurs on Wednesday, it is very auspicious. If Lord Vamanadeva is

280 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA worshiped on that day, He fulfills all the desires of His worshiper. This particular day is also known as Vijaya, and it is very dear to Lord Hari.

All the sacred tlrthas exist at the confluence of two holy rivers. Observing the vow of Sukla Dvadasi in the month of Bhadra awards one passage to heaven. Observing the vow of Krsna Dvadasi in the month of Phalguna relieves one from the sin of killing a brdhmana.

By observing the vows in relation to this auspicious day, which is also known as Vijaya, at the confluence of two holy rivers, one is awarded immense piety. All the sinful reactions of those who fast on this day are eradicated.

All holy places of pilgrimage within the entire world exist at the confluence of two sacred rivers. On the day of Vijaya, all the demigods assemble on the earth.

The glories of this confidential vow are narrated in all the Puranas. Simply by worshiping Lord Vamanadeva at the confluence of two sacred rivers, one can free himself from future ghostly conditions of life.

O Mahadeva! O performer of terrible vows, kindly tell me about a single vow that will award great benefit to those who are unable to observe fasting.

O Parasurama! O knower of religious principles, the Dvadasi that is enhanced by the presence of the Sravana naksatra is certainly most glorious. By fasting and by worshiping Lord Janardana after bathing, one easily obtains the merit of observing twelve Dvadasls.

282 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

O Parasurama, if a Sravana naksatra Dvadasi occurs on a Wednesday, it is considered even more glorious and is called Maha-dvadasl.

O descendent in the family of Bhrgu, taking a holy bath, chanting mantras, performing fire sacrifices, offering oblations to the forefathers, or worshiping the demigods on that day yields unending pious merit.

O Rama, if one bathes at the confluence of two holy rivers on this day, he undoubtedly obtains the merit of bathing in the Ganges.

Bathing at the confluence of two sacred rivers is always to be considered auspicious. It is to be considered even more auspicious if Dvadasi is enhanced by the presence of the Sravana naksatra and occurs on a Wednesday.

O Supreme Personality of Godhead! O sinless Lord, kindly tell about a single sacred vow that awards one great benefit, even for those who are unable to observe fasting when required.

The Sravana Dvadasi of the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadra fulfills all of one's desires. It is very auspicious, and by fasting on that day, one earns immense pious merit.

There is no need for further consideration in this regard. One obtains the benefit of taking a holy bath in the Ganges simply by fasting and bathing at the confluence of two sacred rivers on Sravana Dvadasi.

284 HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA If the Sukla DvadasI in the month of Bhadra is combined with the presence of the Sravana naksatra and occurs on a Wednesday, it is most excellent. Any pious activity, such as giving in charity, on that day yields unlimited merit to the performer.

By observing a fast with a carefully controlled mind, by worshiping Lord Janardana, by giving charity to qualified brahmanas, and by taking a ritualistic bath at the confluence of two sacred rivers on the auspicious day of Sravana DvadasI, one attains, at the end of life, the supreme abode that is rarely achieved.

The great soul, Vanika, attained that heavenly abode where the trees award the fulfillment of one's desires, where the clay in the riverbeds is like sweet rice, and where countless beautiful ponds supply cool, crystal-

clear water. He received a handsome body that was decorated with golden ornaments. In that heavenly abode, He enjoyed life in the company of celestial women for one kalpa.

It is highly recommended that one fast on a Dvadasi that is enhanced by the presence of the Sravana naksatra and Wednesday. Taking a holy bath at the confluence of two holy rivers on that day, and distributing grains the next day, are considered to be very auspicious.

O foremost of kings, great rulers like Sagara, Kakutstha, Dhundhumara, and Gadhl had observed this vow of Dvadasi, which awards merit according to one's desire.

Dvadasi in the month of Bhadra, which is joined by the Sravana naksatra and Wednesday is known as Jaya. This is the opinion of great sages. Those who faithfully observe this vow will obtain all the mystic perfections.

If a DvadasI has the presence of t h e Sravana naksatra t h e n everyone should observe a fast. However, if the Sravana naksatra is also present o n Ekadas'I, the fast should be observed t h a t day. If there is a n overlapping of Ekadas'I and Dvadasi, and the Sravana naksatra is present, this is called the auspicious Visnusrnkhala yoga and so, one should fast o n t h a t day.

If a Dvadasi is e n h a n c e d by t h e presence of the Sravana naksatra, o n e should observe the vows of t h a t day without hesitation. In t h a t case, parana should be observed on Trayodasl.

W h e n t h e Dvadasi in t h e fortnight of t h e waxing m o o n is joined by the Sravana naksatra, it is known as the most sacred Vijaya Dvadasi.

It is stated that any pious activity performed on that day, such as giving in charity or fasting, yields inexhaustible merit. If there is no presence of DasamI at sunrise on Ekadasi, it is pure. If, on the next day, which is DvadasI, there is the presence of the Sravana naksatra, one should observe fasting on both days.

In that case, there is no question of a contradiction arising from various statements of the scriptures, such as, one should complete a vow by breaking the fast the next day at the appropriate time, or one cannot begin a new vow until his previous vow has been completed.

Even if one must fast on both Ekadasi and DvadasI, the injunction that a new vow should be started only after completing a previous vow is not violated, because both these days are very dear to Lord Hari.

If one is unable to fast on both EkadasI and Dvadasi because one is not able to fast two days in a row, then he should eat something on EkadasI and observe fasting on the Sravana Dvadasi.

Persons will undoubtedly receive the merit of observing EkadasI simply by fasting on the auspicious day of Sravana Dvadasi.

As a person who is initiated into the performance of the Vajapeya sacrifice receives full benefit, even without conducting any fire sacrifice, or other pious activities, one will undoubtedly receive all the merit of observing EkadasI simply by observing a complete vow of Dvadasi.

Even if Dvadasi and the Sravana naksatra are combined for a very short time, it's observance is still worthwhile. An intelligent devotee should observe fasting on that day.

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 289

O foremost of men, if the auspicious moment created by the combination of a holy day and a naksatra lasts only a short while, one should still consider it to last twenty-four hours.

Dvadasi combined with the Sravana naksatra is complete and auspicious. It is not that only as long as Sravana naksatra remains present that Dvadasi is auspicious.

ndradiye (In the Naradiya Purana it is stated) yadi na prapyate rksarh dvddasyarh vaisnavarh kvacit ekadasi tadoposya papa ghni sravandnvitd ubhayor devatd visnuh puranah purusottamah vibhedo 'tra na kartavyo vibheddt patate narah

290 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA When DvadasI is not combined with the Sravana naksatra, then one should observe Ekadasi combined with Sravana instead. Such an Ekadasi frees one from all sinful reactions. The original Personality of Godhead, Lord Visnu is the Lord of both Ekadasi and DvadasI. Therefore, one should not discriminate between Ekadasi and DvadasI, considering one to be more important than the other. If one does so, he will fall down.

It is mentioned in sastra that when Ekadasi is combined with the Sravana naksatra it is called Vijaya, because it awards victory to the devotees.

Any day that is joined with the presence of a naksatra is pure, and thus should be observed. The benefit of Sravana DvadasI can be achieved by following the vow of Sravana Ekadasi.

After observing the vow of Ekadasi, one should worship Lord Vamanadeva the next day, because Lord Vamanadeva appeared on DvadasI.

Observe a fast on EkadasI and then worship Lord Hari on Dvadasi.

If Dvadasi does not extend until noon then Vaisnavas should complete their worship of Lord Vamanadeva before noon, within the period of Dvadasi.

mdtsye (In the Matsya Purdna it is stated) dvadasi sravana sprstd spy && ekadasirh yadd sa esa vaisnavo yogo visnu srnkhala samjnitah When Sravana Dvadasi overlaps both day and night of EkadasI, it is called vaisnava yoga, or visnu srnkhala yoga. In this verse, Sravana is used as an adjective of the Dvadasi, and not EkadasI.

By fasting on such an auspicious day, one is freed from all sins and thereafter, enters the transcendental abode from which, once going, one never returns to this material world.

292 SRI H A R I - B H A K T I - V I L A S A

In this connection, EkadasI is understood to indicate the entire day and night of EkadasI, even if it extends for a shorter period of time. The presence of Dvadasi overlapping EkadasI is always seen.

Irrespective of whatever duration of time the presence of a naksatra or tithi continues, the day should be calculated as twenty-four hours.

In the first type of visnu srnkhala yoga, there is a prominence of the Sravana naksatra and so the parana should be observed on Dvadasi. This is in accordance with the observance of parana as it will be described later on. Without observing in this way, one would have to observe two separate vows.

The first verse of Matysa Purana clearly explains this fact. When the Sravana naksatra remains joined like a chain with Ekadasi and DvadasI, it is called visnu srnkhala yoga. In this yoga, the Sravana naksatra prominently remains present during DvadasI, and touches Ekadasi as well. Whether DvadasI and the Sravana naksatra both are present on Ekadasi, or whether DvadasI combined with the Sravana naksatra touches Ekadasi, it is considered to be the same.

yathd visnu dharmottare (As stated in the Visnu'dharmottara) ekadasi dvddasi ca vaisnavyam api tad bhavet tad visnu srnkhalam noma visnu sdyujya krd bhavet tasminn uposandd gacchec chvetadvipa pur am dhruvam If Ekadasi, DvadasI, and the Sravana naksatra are simultaneously present, such an auspicious occurrence is also called visnu srnkhala yoga. By observing the vows related to this day, one attains the liberation of merging into the existence of Lord Visnu. It is certain that by fasting on this day, one can attain the abode of Lord Visnu, Svetadvlpa.

In this case, one should fast on DvadasI and break his fast on Trayodasl. Although it is sometimes prohibited to break one's fast on Trayodasl, according to the instruction of the Supreme Lord, one should do so to keep the great vow of Maha-dvadasT intact.

294 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA dvddasyam upavdsdc ca trayodasyarh tu parandt trayodasyarh pdranarh hi iravane 'pi nisetsyate This particular yoga is distinct from the first visnu srnkhala yoga. Because of fasting on Dvadasi and breaking the fast on Trayodasi, and because of the absence of Dvadasi at the time of parana, it is known as visnu srnkhala yoga. When the vow of EkadasI is joined with the Sravana naksatra, one is forbidden to break his fast on Trayodasi.

When EkadasI, Dvadasi, the Sravana naksatra, and Wednesday are all joined, it is called deva dundubhi yoga. By fasting on this day, one achieves the merit of performing ten thousand sacrifices.

If, at the time of parana, both the Sravana naksatra and Dvadasi are still present—due to the prohibition of observing parana at night, one should observe both vows separately.

In that case, there is no possibility of violating any prescribed rules because Lord Hari is the master and goal of both vows.

Whenever there are two fasting days in a row, one should break his fast on TrayodasT

But, if the Sravana naksatra is present on TrayodasI, one should avoid observing parana as long as it remains present. When there is an absence of the Sravana naksatra on Ekadas'I and Dvadas'I and subsequently the vijaya yoga is obstructed, one is advised to fast on Ekadas'I and worship Lord Vamanadeva on DvadasI.

Also, when there is visnu srnkhala yoga, if the Sravana naksatra and the tithi extend to the next night, those who are able to do so should observe both vows separately.

If, at the time of parana, both the tithi and naksatra remain present, one who is unable to observe both vows should fast only on DvadasI because it is very auspicious, being joined by the Sravana naksatra.

296 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

Because of the alternative arrangement made for observing visnu irnkhala yoga, the ascertainment of pdrana is very clear. There is an exception to this rule only if the presence of Sravana continues beyond pdrana. Further evidence in this regard will be presented later on.

If, on the day of the pdrana the presence of both the tithi and naksatra continue, and if the duration of the tithi is longer than that of the naksatra, one should observe the pdrana at the end of naksatra s presence.

Whenever there is a fasting day where the presence of the tithi and naksatra continue, even at the completion of that day, one should not observe pdrana until the one of them is absent.

If the presence of the naksatra continues for too long, the pdrana should be observed within the duration of the tithi. One should never transgress Dvadasi because by doing so, one commits a great fault.

When there is fasting during the presence of both the tithi and naksatra, one should avoid eating until one of them is completely absent.

O maintainer of the earth, when the presence of the Sravana naksatra continues, do not wait until Dvadasi is over. Rather, one should break his fast during Dvadasi, without transgressing its vows.

If both the tithi and naksatra extend into the night, pdrana should be observed during the day. Parana at night is prohibited.

298 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA

The presence of Dvadasi extending into the night will not be discussed at present. Therefore, the word varddhate in text 619 indicates that the presence of the naksatra extends beyond the time of parana.

Although the presence of the naksatra may be seen at night, observing parana at night transgresses Dvadasi. Thus, we repeat—do not transgress Dvadasi.

By the usage of the word eva in the phrase naiva langhayet, it has been confirmed that Dvadasi should not be disregarded, even if one must disregard the presence of the naksatra.

On all the sacred tithis that are joined with various naksatras, one should observe parana at the end of the presence of the naksatra, except in the cases of the Sravana and RohinI naksatras.

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 299

With regards to the first visnu srnkhala yoga, one should not observe parana on Taryodasi. No statement is found that one can observe parana on Trayodasl. Therefore, the first visnu srnkhala yoga is of two types.

Actually, by using the word tu with regard to the first visnu srnkhala yoga, it has been established that this yoga is one. Therefore, after careful consideration, it is concluded that the second visnu srnkhala yoga applies when the duration of DvadasI is completed.

Still, if, due to doubts, one desires to observe two vows in a row, one is advised to break his fast by taking a little caranamrta. This will amount to observing parana.

300 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA If the presence of a tithi or a naksatra extends throughout the night, then pdrana should be observed during the day. Otherwise, observing of the vow will have no meaning.

First, one should approach his spiritual master, offer obeisances to him, and take permission before making a resolution. Without first taking permission from the spiritual master, making a firm resolution will produce nothing fruitful.

O Lord Vamanadeva! O Ananta! O Protector of the surrendered souls! I will observe a fast on Ekadasi and break my fast on Dvadasi. Please be the goal of my worship.

Either on the night of Ekadasi or on the next day of Dvadasi, one should offer worship to Lord Vamanadeva.

One should place the Deity of Lord Vamanadeva on a plate made of gold, silver, copper, or wood. There, one should also place various articles, such as a water pot, umbrella, shoes, bamboo stick, sacred thread, and beads.

The worship of Lord Vamanadeva should be performed with offerings of sandalwood paste, flowers, incense, a ghee lamp, and food, including like grains mixed with gur and the fruit. One should then remain awake the entire night while singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments.

It is the duty of the worshiper to first offer arghya to Lord Vamanadeva, employing the proper method by putting grated coconut in a conch shell. Thereafter, the worship should be commenced.

.302 SRI H A R I - B H A K T I - V I L A S A vdmandya namo 'stu te vdmandya arghyarh namah O Lord Vamanadeva, You have conquered the three worlds by Your footsteps. Please accept this arghya that is offered by me. My obeisances to Your form as a dwarf brdhmana. The mantra to be chanted: vdmandya arghyarh namah.

Each and every limb of Lord Vamanadeva's body should be worshiped. His lotus feet should be worshiped while chanting matsydya namah. His knees should be worshiped while chanting kurmdya namah. His anus should be worshiped while chanting varahdya namah. His navel should be worshiped while chanting narasirhhaya namah. His chest should be worshiped while chanting vdmandya namah. His two rib cages should be worshiped while chanting parasurdmdya namah. His arms should be worshiped while chanting ramaya namah. His head should be worshiped while chanting krsnaya namah, and His entire body should be worshiped while chanting buddha-kalkibhydrh namah. One should also worship all His weapons while chanting sarvebhyo dyudhebhyo namah.

After offering a grand worship to Lord Vamanadeva with sixteen ingredients, one should, according to his ability, donate cows, land, gold, and so on to his spiritual master and the brdhmanas, while chanting proper mantra.

The brahrnanas who are well-versed in the art of chanting mantras should accept donations while reciting the prescribed mantras. The donor should give charity with devotion while chanting the prescribed mantras.

Lord Vamanadeva is the bestower of intelligence, and the donor is the bestower of the articles given in charity. Lord Vamanadeva personally accepted charity. Therefore, may I have love and devotion for the lotus feet of Vamanadeva.

Vamanadeva gives charity and He accepts charity as well. By this dual function, Vamanadeva delivers the entire world. Therefore, My humble obeisances unto Him.

304 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA After completing all these rituals while following the prescribed rules and regulations, one should first feed yogurt and ghee to the brdhmanas and then take prasdda, along with his friends and relatives.

The festival of Vamanadeva vrata has thus been described, according to the advice of the Vamandeva Purdna and Bhavisottara Purdna.

To observe this festival, one should make a vow early in the morning. He should go to a confluence of two holy rivers. Then, one should prepare a Deity of Lord Vamanadeva with one mdsd of gold, or more, if one has the means. After doing so, one should place the Lord of the universe, Sri Vamanadeva, on a golden plate, placed on top of a pitcher filled with water. Thereafter, one should worship Him while chanting the following mantra.

While worshiping His lotus feet, one should chant orh vdmandya namah. While worshiping His waist, one should chant damodaraya namah. While worshiping His thighs, one should chant srlpataye namah, and while worshiping His anus, one should chant kdmadevdya namah.

While worshiping the belly of the Lord of the universe, one should chant orh visvadhdrine namah. While worshiping His chest, one should chant orh yoganathaya namah, and while worshiping His throat, one should chant om sripataye namah.

While worshiping His mouth, one should chant orh pahcajdksdya namah. While worshiping His head, one should chant om sarvatmane namah. After worshiping the Lord of the universe in this way, one should cover Him nicely with new cloth and then offer Him arghya in a conch shell filled with grated coconut.

306 SRI HARI-BHAKTI-VILASA Om namo namaste, O Govinda! O Buddhasravana! Kindly destroy all my sinful reactions and deliver me from material existence, now that 1 have attained a human birth.

One should give the following in charity, especially to the brdhmanas—shoes, umbrellas, water pots, and cows, while reciting: May Lord Vamanadeva be pleased with me.

According to one's capacity, one should give charity to the brdhmanas and remain awake the entire night, while singing and reciting the scriptures.

After remaining awake the entire night, with utmost devotion, one should first feed the brdhmanas on the morning of DvadasI and then he can himself have his meal. By systematically performing these activities, one's life becomes successful.

tatraiva (In the same Purana it is stated)

FIFTEENTH VILAS A 307 evarh krte tu kdleya vrate 'smin vijaya dine na durlabhatararh kincd iha loke 'thavd pare O Kaleya, nothing is unobtainable, in this life or the next, for one who, on Vijaya, observes this vow as has been prescribed.

That best among men who donates the fruit of this vow to his parents, delivers his entire family and also becomes free from his debt to his father.

Therefore, there is nothing more sanctified than this great vow. In the sastra, no other vow has been mentioned as equal to the vow of Vijaya vrata.

308 &Ri H A R I - B H A K T I - V I L A S A O foremost king, hear with attention about the merit one achieves after completing this vow. One who observes this vow with great devotion goes to the abode of the Supreme Lord and enjoys life there for seventy- seven yuga cycles. Thereafter, he is born in this world as a king who is feared by his enemies.

Such a person becomes freed from false pride. He gives elephants, horses, chariots, and other vehicles in charity. He enjoys life, great bodily beauty, good fortune, freedom from disease, and a long duration of life.

That person will live in this world for one hundred years, along with his children and grandchildren.

The festival of Lord Ramacandra's victory over Ravana is celebrated on the Dasami in the fortnight of the waxing moon in the month of Asvin. The devotees who desire spiritual advancement should celebrate this festival with devotion.

One should place the master of the demigods, Lord Ramacandra— who is the bright star in the Raghu dynasty; who is decorated with all kinds of ornaments, all kinds of weapons, such as a sword, quiver, bow, and arrows; who destroys the demons; and who appeared in this world to deliver everyone by displaying His transcendental pastimes—on a chariot and bring Him underneath a sami tree with great pomp, befitting a king.

After bringing Lord Ramacandra, the husband of Sita, who awards fearlessness to His devotees, under the sami tree, one should worship Him according to the prescribed rules and regulations. Then, one should worship the sami tree as well, to attain special favor.

The sami tree removes all one's sinful reactions, it has red thorns, it sustains the arrows of Arjuna, and it is very dear to Lord Ramacandra. O

310 SRI H ARI-BHAKTI-VILASA worshiper of Lord Ramacandra, may you be pleased with me and bless me so that whatever I do to please the Supreme Lord, Ramacandra, will be completed without any hindrance.

Thereafter, one should collect some wet clay from the root of the saml tree, mix it with rice paddy, and then bring Lord Ramacandra back to His residence while singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments.

In the course of this festival, some devotee can play the part of Jambuvan, another devotee can play the part of a monkey, and still another devotee can play the part of Hanuman, just to please the Lord of Kosala, Ramacandra.

One should meditate on how all the demons and enemies of the earth were vanquished by the Lord. While reciting as follows: Now, Lord Ramacandra is ruling the world. Now, Lord Ramacandra is ruling the world. Now, Lord Ramacandra is ruling the world, one should bring the Deity and place Him on His throne.

Thereafter, one should offer a grand drati to the Supreme Lord, and then offer Him obeisances by falling flat onto the ground. Then, the devotees should honor the Lord's remnants of food, cloth, flower garlands, and so on.

This procedure of worship is found in the Visnu-dharmottara. The festival of Lord Ramacandra's Vijayotsava is very pleasing to saintly persons.

After hearing Hanuman's statements, that he had just returned after meeting Slta-devI, Lord Ramacandra left for Lanka on this day, in the company of His monkey soldiers, departing from underneath a sami tree.