100. Srimad Bhagavata - Gopikas Perform Kathyayini Vratha
Gopikas longed to see Srikrishna. They diligently watched Him, each day, when He and his Cowherds were on the way to and from the Forest.
They learnt from elders about Kathyayini Vratha, a ritual performed by young Girls to get their desired Spouse.
It is a month-long rigorous ritual. Consumption of rice is strictly prohibited, while fruits, vegetables, and millets are allowed.
They need to wake up at Usha Kaal (one and a half an hour before Sunrise) and take a bath in Kalindi River. Each one sculptured a mud image of Devi and performed pooja with all the necessary ingredients carried with them.
They meditated on Beej Mantra: Om Katyayini Mahamaye Mahayogin Yadeeshwari, Nandagopasutham Devi Patim Me Kuru te Namaha.
[O Devi, You are the God of good things. You are revered, worshipful, and talented to give any type of boons. I need Nanda's son, Srikrishna, as my Spouse.]
Every Gopika was desiring that Srikrishna alone be their Spouse and none else. They carried no enmity among themselves and performed pooja together.
The Goddess was pleased with their devotion and made way to meet Srikrishna. On the last day of the Vrata, Srikrishna came to Kalindi River along with other Gopalas.
Gopikas’ Vastrabaharana
Gopikas got up early and reached Kalindi River to cleanse themselves. They left their clothes on the bank and entered the River.
Srikrishna, to make them aware of their mistake, swiftly took away their clothes and climbed the lone Kadamba Gopalas who were watching had a hearty laugh.
Srikrishna said to Gopikas, “You need to come to me to collect your clothes. There is no compulsion, you do not have other options.”
The surprised Gopikas questioned the authenticity of his statement, SriKrishna said, “I speak the truth and never lie.”
Seeing the smile on his face, their heart was filled with love. Everyone laughed at each other, but none came out of the water.
They said, “You are Nanda's Son and shouldn't behave this way. Please give us our clothes. We are your slaves and will do whatever you say, but first give us our clothes. We may tell your Father about this behavior of yours. SriKrishna said, “You said you will be my slave. Do what I say”.
[Srikrishna wanted them to get rid of their bodily attachment. It is unnecessary for him to be involved in such mischievous acts. He knew Gopikas are pure in heart and their devotion is supreme.]
After some time, Gopikas couldn't bear the winter cold and decided to go and fetch their clothes from Him. They all walked swiftly towards Him.
Srikrishna said, “ Aren’t you aware bathing naked is prohibited and while performing Katyayini vrata. Did the elders not guide you properly? Do pranam with hands joined and take your clothes.
When Srikrishna, the Almighty, spoke, Gopikas realized their mistake and followed as per his wish. Their vrata was completed. Srikrishna blessed them.
Gopikas never felt bad nor carried any ill feelings against SriKrishna. They had no vengeance. After wearing clothes, they never moved out and entered Samadhi stiti.
Srikrishna said, “Your intention is known to me, but marriage is not possible. You will attain salvation (moksha).
Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana
Source: Bhagavatha Mahapurana
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