Ashtyam Leela – A unique way to experience Leelas of Shree Radha-Krishna

An event showcasing the Ashtyam Leela of Shree Radha-Krishna is being held at the Jugal Ghat of River Yamuna at Vrindavan. Devotees from far away corners of the country have arrived in Vrindavan to witness various Leelas of Shree Radha-Krishna that will be showcased during the 10-day event. The event is being held by Shree Radhikavallabha Lal Temple, Vrindavan in collaboration with Ras Bharati Sansthan. 

Ashtyam means eight, and Leela can be understood as pastimes or plays of Shree Radha-Krishna. As is evident, Lord Krishna spent his childhood in Vrindavan and Gokul regions where he performed many Leelas with Shree Radha and Gopas and Gopis of Braj region. Thus, Ashtyam Leela means playtimes of Shree Radha-Krishna during 8 parts (Prahar) of the day.

Nauka Vihar Leela of Shree Radha-Krishna at Jugal Ghat of River Yamuna, Vrindavan

                                           Nauka Vihar Leela 

On the first day of Ashtyam Leela, Greeshma Ritu Kalin or summer season Leelas like Nauka Vihar Leela, Jal Vihar Leela, Shringar Leela and Snan Leela of Lord Krishna were displayed in the morning on March 15. The whole experience was turned surreal with the depiction of each Leela in Padya form in Braj Bhasha. A group of local artists recited the Padya related to the Nauka Vihar Leela as follows –

Manimaya Kal Nuakan Me, Raajat Jugal Kishor।

Mann Vinod Bichin Badhin, Tann Chhavi Uthat Hilor॥

Morakrit Kal Naav Me, HitAli Ju Sang।
Raajat Shreehit Swamini, Ang-Ang Chhavinu-Tarang॥

Hansakrit Nauki Bani, Taamein Raajat Lal।

Ras-Salita Mann Mein Badhi, Sang Liyen Lalita Baal॥

Hod Badi Naukan Mein, Bharikein Kamalani- Punj।

Jitai So Jo Pratham Hi, Pahunchai Kamal Nikunj॥
Mann Mein Badhyou Hulas Ati, Adharani Bhadhyou Haas।

Pyari Ke Mukh-Chandra Pai, Kanchan Ki Chhabi Raas॥

Lalan Dekhi Adbhut Chhata, Bhuli Gaye Sab Khel।

Nauka Ki Gati Bhulikain, Nain Rahe Inhi Gail॥

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