Now about Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu’s sevak Padmanabhadas, a Kannaujia Brahmin residing in Kannauj. The sentiment of his story is described here:
Prasang 1 Padmanabhdas Resolves to Serve Without Livelihood from Discourses
In the beginning, Padmanabhadas used to sit on a high seat (vyasasan) and narrate discourses in his home at Kannauj. He never went to anyone’s house; his income (vritti) would come to him while sitting at home. He lived in this way.
One time, Shri Acharyaji came to Kannauj. Padmanabhadas went to have his darshan. There, from the lotus mouth of Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu, Padmanabhadas heard a discourse on the Bhagavad topics. He then realized: “This is the Supreme Lord Himself. He is Shri Purna Purushottam.” Recognizing Shri Acharyaji as Purushottam, Padmanabhadas took shelter under him, received Brahmasambandh initiation, and later performed full self-surrender (samarpan).
After his initiation, during the ceremony of upliftment (utthapan), Shri Acharyaji opened a sacred book. At that time, Damodardas was seated in the house of Sambhalware. Padmanabhadas came from his home, offered prostrations (dandavat) to Shri Acharyaji, and sat down. Then Shri Acharyaji recited a verse from a text:
पठनीयं प्रयत्नेन सर्वहेतुविवर्जितम्। वृत्त्यर्थ नैव युंजीत प्राणः कण्ठगौरपि ॥१॥
Study diligently, free from all ulterior motives. Do not use it (study or recitation) for earning a livelihood, even at the cost of life or for the sake of protecting your throat (voice).
तदभावे यथैव स्यात् तथा निर्वाहमाचरेत् । त्रयाणां येन केनापि भजन् कृष्णमवाप्नुयात् ॥२॥
In its absence, sustain yourself in whatever way is appropriate. Of the three (ways), by whichever means one can, worship Krishna and attain Him.
✿✿✿
After hearing this verse, Padmanabhadas, with hands cupped in resolve (anjuli bhar ke sankalp), vowed: “I shall not earn my living by narrating stories.” He made this firm resolve before Shri Acharyaji.
Shri Acharyaji then said: “You need not narrate the Shri Bhagavat for income. But you are a Brahmin. You can recite the Mahabharata and other texts for livelihood.” Padmanabhadas replied: “Maharaj! I have taken a vow. What is vowed must be kept. Therefore, I shall not narrate anything.”
Shri Acharyaji said: “But you are a householder. How will you maintain yourself?” Padmanabhadas answered: “I will not narrate the Bhagavat for livelihood. I will earn by performing rituals in the homes of yajmans (patrons). In this way, I will sustain myself.”
Thereafter, he went to the homes of yajmans for ritual earnings. They showed him great respect. But then, Padmanabhadas felt remorse in his heart: “Earlier I never begged. Now, after becoming a Vaishnav, I go out asking for alms. This does not feel right. Earlier I wore the sacred thread (upavit) and garland (mala). For such a one, begging for a livelihood is not proper.” So he made a new vow: “I will not sustain myself through begging.”
Again Shri Acharyaji asked: “Now how will you manage your livelihood?” Padmanabhadas said: “I will engage in trade like a Vaishya to maintain myself.” Thereafter, he started selling earthen pots and bringing in firewood. He did not consider any other way and continued serving wholeheartedly until the end of his life.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): Padmanabhadas is the manifestation of Champakalata Sakhi, one of Shri Swaminiji’s attendants. When Padmanabhadas requested Shri Acharyaji: “We are Brahmins; we will sustain ourselves through begging,” Shri Acharyaji was greatly pleased by his resolve. He said: “The firm resolve (tek) of a Vaishnav is itself the highest dharma.” Later, when Padmanabhadas’s entire family was accepted (initiated), he asked Shri Acharyaji: “Maharaj! What is my duty?” Shri Acharyaji replied: “Engage in the seva (service) of Shri Thakurji (Lord Krishna).” Padmanabhadas said: “Maharaj! I have studied many scriptures—Puranas, Mahabharata, and others. It is difficult for me to develop faith in the divine form (svarup) of Shri Thakurji. Only if I see the greatness (mahatmya) of the divine form revealed will my faith become firm. Because faith alone yields fruit.” Shri Acharyaji said: “Come with me to Braj. I will show you the mahatmya.”
Padmanabhadas went to Braj. Near Mahavan at Ramanasthal on the banks of Shri Yamunaji, Shri Acharyaji was seated. It was early morning. Suddenly, the surface of Shri Yamunaji split into crores of parts. From it emerged a divine form (svarup) as tall as a palm tree, who came before Shri Acharyaji and said: “Please accept my service.” Shri Acharyaji replied: “At this time, Vaishnavs do not have the strength to perform your elaborate service and adornments. If the wish arises for such service, it can be done by welcoming you with devotion. Please sit in my lap.” The divine form (svarup) then became small and placed its forehead upon Shri Acharyaji’s chin. At once, the form grew enormous again. That divine form encompassed Shri Yamunaji, Giriraj (Govardhan), sakhis, sakhas, villages, groves, and all the eighty-four kos of Braj—everything appeared with divine signs.
Shri Acharyaji named this divine form Shri Mathuranathji and said to Padmanabhadas: “Has your heart’s wish been fulfilled?” Padmanabhadas, overwhelmed with love, said: “Maharaj! You are my true Lord. By your grace, is there anything impossible?” Shri Acharyaji instructed: “Serve with the feeling of yatha labh santosh—being content with whatever you receive.” With permission, Padmanabhadas brought Shri Mathuranathji to his home in Kannauj and began serving him with great love. Initially, he still earned his livelihood by begging. But then a thought arose in Padmanabhadas’s mind: “How can I, being called a Vaishnav, go about begging? Shri Acharyaji has said to serve with contentment as per yatha labh santosh. That is the best way.” He adopted the principle: “Avyavritto bhajet Krishnam pujaya shravanadibhih. (2)” —meaning he engaged in uninterrupted service with devotion.
Prasang 2 Faith in the Guru: The Miraculous Boat and Shri Akkaji’s Arrival
Once, Shri Acharyaji was in Prayag. There, Padmanabhdas was also present. At that time, one watch of the night had passed. Then Shri Acharyaji said to Padmanabhdas, “Shri Akkaji is on the other side. Go and bring him here.” Hearing this, he immediately got up and left. At that time, five or seven Vaishnavas were sleeping there. They started saying, “The Brahmin has gone mad. Where will he go at this hour? All the boats are tied up. The boatmen have gone home. So how will he be able to cross?”
But Padmanabhdas had full faith in the command of Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu. He believed firmly that this matter would surely come to pass. So, he went up to the riverbank and started looking around here and there. Just then, suddenly, a boy appeared, bringing a small boat. He asked Padmanabhdas, “Will you cross over?” Padmanabhdas replied, “Yes, yes, I will.” So the boy ferried him across.
Afterward, the boy asked again, “Will you return?” Padmanabhdas said, “I will return in about two hours.” Then the boy said, “I will keep the boat here. Come back quickly.” Later, Padmanabhdas went to the place and respectfully brought Shri Akkaji back. They both sat in that same boat and crossed over. But when they looked back after getting off, neither the boat nor the boy was there anymore.
After bringing Shri Akkaji, Padmanabhdas returned. Shri Acharyaji instructed him, “Go, and rest.” Padmanabhdas went back to the place where the Vaishnavas were sleeping. The Vaishnavas asked him, “Where have you been?” Padmanabhdas replied, “I went to bring Shri Akkaji here.”
Then all the Vaishnavas said, “You made Shri Thakurji exert Himself greatly.” Later, when these Vaishnavas spoke to Shri Acharyaji about it, they said, “Maharaj! Padmanabhdas caused Shri Thakurji to undergo great effort.” Shri Acharyaji replied, “Whatever has happened, has happened according to my wish. So you should not say anything to Padmanabhdas about this.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): In this Prasang, it is established that if a Vaishnav, for the sake of fulfilling the Guru’s work, causes even the Lord to undergo effort (labor), it is not considered an obstacle. When the Guru is pleased, all tasks are accomplished successfully. This night was the auspicious moment of Shri Gusainji’s manifestation. Therefore, Shri Acharyaji gave the command. Shri Thakurji Himself brought the boat. This shows that for the sake of Shri Gusainji, all tasks are to be performed without hesitation. It reveals the greatness of Shri Gusainji’s form as even beyond that of Shri Thakurji and demonstrates Padmanabhdas’s complete faith — that Shri Acharyaji’s words never go unfulfilled and that all tasks are indeed accomplished.
Prasang 3 Sacrificing for the Guru: Padmanabhdas Redeems a Merchant’s Loss
Once, Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu was going from Shri Gokul to Adel. At that time, a merchant Kshatriya was traveling with him, carrying some goods. That merchant lived in Kannauj, and Shri Acharyaji arrived in the middle of Kannauj.
The merchant was lagging behind, and robbers attacked him. They looted all his goods. Meanwhile, Shri Acharyaji was preparing the meal and offering it to Shri Thakurji. Just then, the merchant came crying and wailing. He asked, “Where is Shri Acharyaji?” Padmanabhdas replied, “He must be taking his meal.”
The merchant said, “All my goods have been looted, and Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu is taking his meal!” Padmanabhdas thought to himself, “If Shri Acharyaji hears this, he will stop his meal.” So, he decided not to let him hear it.
Padmanabhdas took hold of the merchant’s arm and brought him outside. Then he asked, “Tell me truthfully, how much of your goods were looted?” The merchant told him the amount. Padmanabhdas then took the merchant to the shop of a wealthy moneylender. The moneylender welcomed Padmanabhdas with great respect and hospitality.
Afterward, the moneylender asked, “Please, what brings you here?” Padmanabhdas said, “This merchant needs this much money. I will write a promissory note with interest for this amount.” The moneylender said, “Padmanabhdasji! Take as much money as you need. Why even bother about a promissory note?”
Padmanabhdas replied, “First, I will write the promissory note, then I will take the money. I will not take it without writing it down.” The moneylender said, “As you wish.”
Padmanabhdas then wrote the promissory note with interest and pledged his sacred thread and religious ornaments. The merchant took the money and went home.
Later, Shri Acharyaji asked Padmanabhdas, “Where did you go?” Padmanabhdas replied, “Maharaj! I went out for some work.” Shri Acharyaji, who is omniscient, instantly knew everything that had happened. Shri Acharyaji then said to Padmanabhdas, “Why did you get involved with that merchant? If he had remained behind and been looted, what could we have done? But you did it wrong by taking a loan to give him money.”
Padmanabhdas said, “Maharaj! I will repay the loan tomorrow. That is not a big matter. But if the merchant had kept crying and you had to delay your meal even by two moments, then my entire life’s purpose would have been wasted.” Shri Acharyaji then asked, “Why did you pledge your sacred ornaments?” Padmanabhdas replied, “Maharaj! Without pledging them, the money would not have been given.”
Later, Shri Acharyaji proceeded to Adel. Padmanabhdas went to a king he knew. The king requested him, “Please, show me your grace and narrate a story.” Padmanabhdas said, “O King! I will narrate Shrimad Bhagavatam. Or, if you wish, I can narrate the Mahabharata.” The king said, “Good, narrate the Mahabharata.” Padmanabhdas began narrating the Mahabharata.
When the narrative reached the war episode, the listeners became so engrossed in the valor and heroism that they began acting out fights among themselves with kicks and punches. After several days, the Mahabharata narration was completed. The king then began offering a large amount of wealth as a reward.
Padmanabhdas said, “I will not take all this wealth. I have a debt to repay. I will only take as much as is needed to settle it.” He took just enough to pay off the principal and interest to the moneylender. The rest he returned. Such was the devotion of Padmanabhdas.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): When the merchant said, “All my goods were looted, and you are taking your meal?” – the reason behind his words was that he thought, “You are merciful. How can you eat knowing that a soul is suffering?” The truly merciful one removes the sorrow of others first and then takes his meal. Shri Acharyaji asked, “Why did you arrange money for the merchant? You even took a loan. Did we take responsibility for his goods? If he was looted, what could we have done? You acted wrongly because now you have taken a loan upon yourself. What is the guarantee of this body? If the body perishes, the debt will remain.”
Padmanabhdas replied, “If I had let the merchant continue weeping and caused even a moment’s delay in your meal, my whole life’s purpose would have been wasted. What is the big deal about a debt? I will repay it soon. By your grace, no obstacle will remain.” The reason Padmanabhdas pledged his sacred ornaments was twofold: firstly, he believed that one should not accept anything without proper documentation; secondly, it showed his deep surrender to Shri Acharyaji.
He had fully offered himself to Shri Acharyaji. If his Vedic duties had remained separate, he would have sought their fruits in heaven. But he had completely surrendered everything and accepted Pushti Bhakti as his only dharma. That is why Shri Acharyaji asked, “Did you pledge even such sacred ornaments to the moneylender?” But Padmanabhdas had the form of Shri Acharyaji firmly established in his heart. For Shri Acharyaji’s happiness, he considered even dharma to be secondary.
He pledged his ornaments and joyfully gave money to the merchant, thinking it a blessing that the merchant had come there. Otherwise, the merchant would have gone around the land criticizing, saying, “I was looted while in the company of Shri Acharyaji. If one is not looted in the company of a worldly king, how could I be looted with such a divine being?” But Padmanabhdas thought, “This is a test of my dharma. My wealth has been taken for the sake of testing my resolve.”
By giving money to the merchant, he ensured that wherever the merchant went, he would praise Shri Acharyaji, saying, “He gave me back my wealth with interest.” This shows Padmanabhdas’s indescribable love for Shri Acharyaji. When the king began offering large rewards, Padmanabhdas did not take more than needed, saying, “I do not recite stories for wealth. That is my vow.” All of these actions were done purely for the happiness of Shri Acharyaji. Padmanabhdas then brought back the written bond from the moneylender, returned home, and continued his service.
Prasang 4 Unshakable Trust: Giving His Daughter in Marriage Beyond Caste Boundaries
Padmanabhdas had a daughter who was unmarried. For her marriage, a groom who was a sevak of Shri Acharyaji was desired. So, the Vaishnavas began to inquire about a suitable match. One Vaishnav said, “There is a groom who is a sevak of Shri Acharyaji, but he is a Sanodhya Brahmin.”
As soon as Padmanabhdas heard that he was Shri Acharyaji’s servant, he paid no attention to worldly customs. The Vaishnav said, “He is a good Vaishnav. You should give your daughter to him.” Padmanabhdas replied, “Alright.” Then Padmanabhdas called for kumkum, applied tilak to the Vaishnav, and said, “I have given my daughter to you. You decide the wedding date, and on that day I will perform the marriage.”
The marriage was performed properly, and Padmanabhdas returned home happily. At home, there was his elder daughter, Tulsa, who had become a widow right after marriage and had never seen her husband’s face. She was deeply engaged in the service of Shri Mathuranathji. Padmanabhdas told her, “I have arranged the marriage of your younger sister with such-and-such Vaishnav.”
Tulsa said, “But he is a Sanodhya Brahmin, and we are Kannaujia Brahmins. How could this happen?” Padmanabhdas replied, “What is done is done.” Tulsa then said, “Break off the engagement.” Padmanabhdas said, “Bring a knife. Cut off the thumb with which I applied the tilak. Only then can the engagement be broken.”
Tulsa asked, “How can we cut the thumb?” Padmanabhdas replied, “Then how can we break the engagement? Only if the thumb is cut can it be undone.” Later, Padmanabhdas performed the marriage. All the people of the caste were upset and murmured among themselves. But Padmanabhdas had such deep trust in the words of the Vaishnav that he did not break off the engagement.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): When Tulsa asked, “How can we cut off the thumb?” Padmanabhdas replied, “When one has offered body, mind, and wealth to the servant of Shri Acharyaji, how can such an engagement be broken?”
In this way, Padmanabhdas showed Tulsa the path of devotion. From that day onwards, Tulsa’s love for the Vaishnavas grew through the association of Padmanabhdas. Even Shri Thakurji began to grant her experiences of His presence.
Later, Padmanabhdas joyfully gave his daughter in marriage to the Vaishnav. The entire caste gossiped and criticized, but this happened because where there is no firm love, there exists fear of worldly and Vedic customs. Once firm love in the Lord is established, all worries disappear, and even worldly or Vedic obstacles cannot interfere. Such was the Vaishnav Padmanabhdas.
Prasang 5 Grace Through Humility: The Kshatriya Woman’s Wish Fulfilled
A Kshatriya woman used to visit Padmanabhdas’s house daily. One day, Padmanabhdas’s daughter Tulsa asked her, “Kshatriyani! Why do you come here every day?”
The Kshatriya woman replied, “He (Padmanabhdas) is a great saint, a true devotee of God. I have no children, and that is why I come. Please convey my request to Padmanabhdasji.”
One day, Tulsa spoke to Padmanabhdas, “This Kshatriya woman has no children. She requests your help.” Padmanabhdas said to Tulsa, “Bring water.” Tulsa brought the water and placed it before him. Padmanabhdas took the water, turned it into charanamrit (water sanctified by touching his feet), gave it to the Kshatriya woman, and said, “Go. You will have a son. Name him Mathuradas.”
Later, the Kshatriya woman bore a son, and he was named Mathuradas.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): Why did Padmanabhdas give his own charanamrit? A true devotee never tries to show off his greatness. Most likely, he gave the charanamrit of Shri Thakurji. It is said here that Padmanabhdas thought, “This is such a small desire—for a child. Why trouble Shri Thakurji for this?”
Therefore, he gave his own charanamrit. Yet, Padmanabhdas always remained absorbed in the form of Shri Acharyaji. So, even while giving the water, he did so with the sentiment of Shri Acharyaji, without any concern for his own glory or recognition.
One who takes shelter in a true devotee will have all desires fulfilled. What is the matter of a child? The Kshatriya woman had the desire for a son, so a son was born to her. But there was no obstacle in this, for Padmanabhdas did not have any sense of pride in his action.
At that time, he simply acted on the inspiration of his intellect, which itself was under divine will. A devotee’s actions are directed by the Lord’s desire, and he does not consider them his own doing.
Shri Gusainji has written: “Buddhi-preraka kṛiṣṇasya pādapaṁ praseedatu” – “May the inspiration of the intellect come from the feet of Krishna.” Whatever happens is due to Krishna’s inspiration. If someone thinks it is their own doing or another’s, they are still wandering in the ocean of samsara.
Thus, Padmanabhdas gave his own charanamrit, but not with the thought, “Through my charanamrit a son will be born.” Everything happens only by the will of God. This principle is clearly shown here.
Prasang 6 Enduring Hardships for Thakurji’s Return from the Mughal
Once, Bade Ramdasji took his worshipable Shri Thakurji from Padmanabhdas’s house to have the darshan of Shri Nathji. At Shri Nathji’s temple, Ramdasji stayed on Shri Acharyaji’s command and began serving Shri Nathji. During this time, Padmanabhdas was serving his Shri Thakurji at home. After some days, Mughal soldiers attacked the village and looted it. One Mughal took Shri Thakurji away. Padmanabhdas stayed with that Mughal for seven days, without eating or drinking anything.
On the eighth day, the Mughal’s wife said to him, “This Brahmin has not eaten or drunk for seven days. If he dies, the sin of killing him will fall on you. He is a servant of God. Return his deity to him.” Then the Mughal gave Shri Thakurji back to Padmanabhdas. Taking Him, Padmanabhdas returned home. He bathed, gave Shri Thakurji a bath with Panchamrit, dressed Him in new clothes, adorned Him with ornaments, prepared food, offered it at the appropriate time, and distributed Mahaprasad to the Vaishnavas. He too partook of Mahaprasad.
On the same day that Shri Thakurji was taken by the Mughal, Bade Ramdasji somehow came to know about it. From that day, Ramdasji also refrained from eating for seven days, although he continued serving Shri Nathji with great care. Padmanabhdas, sitting at home, became aware of this and felt deep sorrow for Ramdasji. He went to Shri Nathji’s temple to have darshan and meet Ramdasji. After the darshan, he met Ramdasji.
Padmanabhdas said to him, “You felt sorrow, and that is natural because you had taken my Thakurji into your service. But why did you abstain from Mahaprasad for seven days?” Ramdasji replied, “What you say is true, but I have served Him for many years. Therefore, I felt this much connection.” After staying there for a few more days, Padmanabhdas took leave from Shri Nathji and Ramdasji and returned home to Kannauj. He resumed his service to Shri Thakurji.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This prasang shows that when the deity of a Pushtimargiya Vaishnav comes into one’s home, there should be no difference in the sentiment of service. One should see the deity as related to Shri Acharyaji and serve with full devotion. Ramdasji’s sentiment also shows that a devotee should never be indifferent when serving another’s Thakurji. One should feel their pain as one’s own and their joy as one’s own.
Prasang 7 Contentment in Service: Refusing Help and Remaining Steadfast
Once, Padmanabhdas thought, “I should go with my family and Shri Thakurji to have darshan of Shri Acharyaji and hear the nectar of his words.” So, he went to Adel with his family and Shri Thakurji. They stayed there for a few days. But Padmanabhdas was in great financial difficulty. For Shri Thakurji’s offerings, he prepared small portions, like a single ladle of lentils, a small amount of rice, a handful of kheer, and a small portion of each vegetable. He prepared these in separate piles, offering each one by name. Shri Thakurji accepted all the offerings with love.
This continued daily. One day, a Vaishnav informed Shri Acharyaji about Padmanabhdas’s way of offering. Shri Acharyaji decided to visit Padmanabhdas’s house at the time of bhog (offering). He asked Padmanabhdas, “Why are there so many small piles of food?” Padmanabhdas explained, “This is lentils, this is rice, this is kheer, this is curry, this is vegetables,” and so on, naming each item.
Hearing this, Shri Acharyaji felt deeply moved. He understood that Padmanabhdas was doing this because of financial constraints but was not making any effort to seek help. Shri Acharyaji recognized his great patience and saw how pleased Shri Thakurji was with him. Later, Shri Acharyaji returned home and told Shri Akkaji, “There is great financial difficulty at Padmanabhdas’s house. He offers small portions daily.”
That evening, Shri Akkaji prepared a large amount of food and sent it to Padmanabhdas’s house through a Vaishnav. Tulsa informed Padmanabhdas, “This food has come from Shri Acharyaji’s house.” Padmanabhdas replied, “Now I understand. They have found a way to support us. Carefully keep the food aside.”
The next day, Shri Akkaji again sent food in the evening. When Tulsa informed Padmanabhdas, he said, “We should take leave tomorrow morning. Keep this food aside too.” The next morning, they prepared Shri Thakurji’s royal offering and got ready to leave. Padmanabhdas went to Shri Acharyaji and said, “Maharaj! With your permission, we wish to return home.”
Shri Acharyaji asked, “Where is Shri Thakurji?” Padmanabhdas replied, “Maharaj! He is on the boat.” Shri Acharyaji granted leave but thought in his heart, “Why is Padmanabhdas leaving so quickly?” Shri Akkaji then explained, “We sent food for two days, but he returned it untouched.” Shri Acharyaji said, “He left because he didn’t want to accept it. Otherwise, he would not have gone.” Thus, Shri Acharyaji spoke these words. Padmanabhdas returned home and resumed his service.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This prasang teaches that the Guru’s wealth is even greater than Shri Thakurji’s wealth. In the Shrimad Bhagavatam (Canto 11, Chapter 17, Verse 28), it is said: “One should bring alms and place them before the Guru. Only if the Guru commands should one eat; otherwise, remain hungry. Never take even begged food without the Guru’s permission.” So how could one take the Guru’s wealth without permission? Shri Acharyaji also wrote in Vivekdhairyaashraya: “Endure three kinds of suffering patiently.”
When the Mughal took Shri Thakurji, Padmanabhdas could have destroyed everything, but he chose to endure. He went seven days without food and told no one. He endured physical suffering, the humiliation of his daughter’s widowhood, caste criticism, and hardships in food and drink, yet he never abandoned his dharma.
As Shri Gokulnathji wrote in Shri Sarvottam Tika: “Among millions of Vaishnavas, Padmanabhdas is rare.” He recognized the path of Shri Acharyaji and knew Shri Acharyaji’s form as divine. That is why Shri Acharyaji Mahaprabhu was always pleased with Padmanabhdas. His stories are beyond description, but we speak of them as far as words allow.
Padmanabhdas’s daughter Tulsa
Now about Shri Acharyaji’s sevak Padmanabhdas’s daughter Tulsa. The sentiment of her story is described here:
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): In this divine play, Tulsa is the sakhi of Padmanabhdas. Padmanabhdas himself is Champakalata among the eight principal sakhis. And Champakalata’s sakhi is Manikundala, just like the coiled light of a jewel shining all around. In the same way, Tulsa is a sattvik devotee. She is always ready to act upon the command of Padmanabhdas.
Prasang 1 The Vaishnav Who Refused Mahaprasad
One day, a Vaishnav came to Tulsa’s house. He was a sevak of Shri Acharyaji. He had gone for darshan of Shri Mathuranathji and had attended the Rajbhog Aarti. Then Tulsa said to that Vaishnav, “Get up, take a bath. Have Mahaprasad.” That Vaishnav replied, “I will go home and bathe there.” Tulsa remained silent. After that, the Vaishnav got up and went to his home. Tulsa felt great sorrow in her heart, thinking, “The Vaishnav left my house hungry.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): The reason he did not take Mahaprasad was because he did not accept it for the sake of social custom. Tulsa understood this, and so she did not insist. This Vaishnav was a Gaud Brahmin and, in the divine play, is the sakhi of Lalitaji, named Saurabha. From her body emanates the fragrance of attar and roses. This Vaishnav is Lalitaji’s sakhi, while Tulsa is the sakhi of Champakalata. Tulsa’s heart belongs only to Shri Mathuranathji. Therefore, the Vaishnav did not take Mahaprasad, as how could he take it without Lalitaji’s command? So the Vaishnav went to his home, and Tulsa felt deep sorrow in her heart.
She thought to herself, “Perhaps he did not take the sakhdi (unmixed) Mahaprasad due to social custom. That’s fine, but tomorrow I will surely serve him the complete Mahaprasad.” Later, she sieved flour and prepared the ingredients, and then went to sleep. That day, Tulsa herself did not take Mahaprasad. That night, Shri Mathuranathji spoke to Tulsa in a dream, saying, “In the morning, serve that Vaishnav Mahaprasad. That Vaishnav will not take Mahaprasad at his home.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This indicates that tomorrow the Vaishnav will take Mahaprasad. Do not worry. Afterwards, Shri Thakurji informed that Vaishnav, “Why didn’t you take Mahaprasad at Tulsa’s home? Take it there in the morning. This is also Lalitaji’s command. Lalitaji herself says, ‘Take Mahaprasad at Tulsa’s home. There is no difference between our sentiments.’”
Prasang 2 The Vaishnav Accepts Mahaprasad
The next morning, Tulsa prepared puris. She woke Shri Thakurji and began serving and decorating Him. Meanwhile, the Vaishnav, after bathing in the morning and having performed tilak, mudra, and remembrance of God, came to Tulsa’s house after visiting Shri Thakurji’s seva.
When Tulsa finished offering bhog and came outside, she greeted the Vaishnav with “Jai Shri Krishna.” Tulsa then said, “Get up, take a bath, and remember the Lord.” The Vaishnav replied, “I have bathed and come here after purification.” (It is also said in the Varta that after bathing, he did tilak and mudra and remembered God.) When it was time, Tulsa prepared Rajbhog, performed Aarti, and the Vaishnav had darshan. After completing seva to Shri Thakurji, Tulsa came out and placed a plate of Mahaprasad before the Vaishnav. The plate contained puris, boora (powdered sugar), dahi-thara (curd preparation), and sandhana (sweets). She said, “Please take Mahaprasad.”
The Vaishnav said, “I will not take this. Place the sakhdi Mahaprasad, I will take that.” Tulsa replied, “Do not hesitate, this is simply a matter of social custom.” The Vaishnav said, “That is true. Earlier I thought the same way, but now I have received the command. Therefore, I will now take sakhdi Mahaprasad.” Then Tulsa placed both the sakhdi (unmixed) and anasakhdi (mixed) Mahaprasad before him. The Vaishnav accepted the sakhdi Mahaprasad, took it, and then went to his home. Tulsa felt great joy in her heart.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This shows that when a Vaishnav comes to the house, one should honor them to the best of one’s ability. Why? Because in the Bhagavatam it is said, “A house where even water is not offered respectfully to guests should be known as a snake’s hole.” Thus, Tulsa’s affection and respect towards the Vaishnav was of such a deep and loving nature.
Prasang 3 Tulsa’s Humility Before Shri Gusainji
Once, Shri Gusainji came to Tulsa’s house again. At that time, Tulsa served him with great devotion, serving even more attentively than she did for Shri Thakurji. Seeing this, Shri Gusainji was very pleased.
One day, after having his meal, Shri Gusainji was resting. Tulsa began speaking about the Lord’s divine pastimes (Bhagavad Varta) to please Shri Gusainji. While Tulsa, in her great joy, was narrating these stories, Shri Gusainji spoke from his lotus mouth, “The descendants of Padmanabhadas should all be like this.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): The meaning here is this—Tulsa is, in the divine play (Leela), a Sakhi (female companion). Why should she not be like this? In this pastime, Shri Gusainji represents Chandravali. Thus, he has a Parakiya Bhava (love in the mood of a lover not bound by marriage) toward Shri Thakurji. Because of this, he delights in playful humor. So he teasingly asked, “Does Shri Thakurji reveal his loving sentiments to you? After all, you too are a Sakhi. You have won over Shri Thakurji through your service. So, are you not also a part of our shared circle?” In this way, he spoke in a tone of affectionate teasing.
However, Tulsa was purely Sattvic (in the mode of goodness). She was not inclined toward sarcasm or teasing. She remained thoughtful and composed. Later, Shri Gusainji asked Tulsa, “Does Shri Thakurji reveal his loving feelings to you?” Tulsa replied, “Maharaj! Now we eat to our heart’s content and sleep fully. But we do recite Shri Acharyaji’s scriptures daily.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): To eat fully and to sleep fully—this means that whatever divine nectar (Rasa) our hearts can hold, as much as we are vessels for, Shri Thakurji reveals to us. Thus, sleeping soundly with Shri Thakurji means resting peacefully in his presence. This is because Tulsa’s love is in the Swakiya Bhava (the mood of a wedded beloved). Therefore, she feels content and without anxiety. This is the main meaning.
In the mood of a disciple, the meaning is: “Maharaj! For many births, I wandered separated from Shri Thakurji. In none of those births was my hunger ever satisfied, nor did I find peaceful sleep. But now, by your grace, I have taken shelter at Shri Thakurji’s feet. So in this birth, my hunger has been satisfied, and I sleep peacefully, having taken refuge in Shri Thakurji. All my previous births were spent in ignorance and suffering.”
In a mood of humility, the meaning is: “What experience could Shri Thakurji reveal to me? I simply eat and sleep like an animal, whose only concern is food and rest. Even when forced, animals act only when driven. Likewise, I am engrossed in the pleasures of eating and sleeping. People criticize, saying, ‘She is a descendant of the great Padmanabhadas, yet she does not serve.’ Such are the opinions of others for the sake of social prestige. So why would Shri Thakurji reveal anything to me?”
Surdasji has sung: “Sūr, what need to guide the lowly? They only fill their stomachs and sleep.”
I am such a lowly person, unworthy of mention. My body desires only comfort. That is the kind of person I am. Yet, I always recite Shri Acharyaji’s scriptures. The meaning of this is that even such a fallen soul as I, by merely reciting Shri Acharyaji’s scriptures—without even understanding their deep sentiments—finds that Shri Thakurji reveals himself completely.
Thus, Tulsa did not attribute any of this to her own efforts. Instead, she credited Shri Acharyaji’s grace, saying that the Lord bestows his mercy through the recitation of his texts. These words, wrapped in humility and love, filled Shri Gusainji’s heart with deep emotion.
Such was the divine Tulsa, upon whom Shri Gusainji was always pleased. For this reason, there is no end to her story. It can only be told up to a certain point.
Padmanabhdas’s son’s wife Parvati
Now about Shri Acharyaji’s sevak Padmanabhdas’s son’s wife Parvati. The sentiment of her story is described here:
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): She is a rajasi (royal-natured) devotee. Padmanabhdas is Champakalata among the eight principal sakhis. Her sakhi is Sucharita, and here Sucharita became Purushottamdas Mehra, a Kshatriya. He performs all actions beautifully and gives happiness to all. Sucharita’s sakhi is Rupvilasini, and here she became Parvati. In the divine play, Parvati’s form was very beautiful. She was Rajasi and took great care of her appearance. Due to her pride in her beauty, she fell from divine play.
Prasang 1 – Parvati’s Illness and Divine Realization
Parvati served Shri Thakurji very well. Purushottamdas Mehra knew her closely. When he would travel to Kannauj, he stayed at her house. Once, Purushottamdas Mehra came to Kannauj and went for darshan of Shri Gusainji. At that time, Parvati’s hands and feet turned white. She felt ashamed and humble. Then she remembered her previous form: “I am the sakhi of Purushottamdas. My work will be fulfilled through him.” She wrote a letter to Purushottamdas: “Please request Shri Gusainji on my behalf. My body has become like this. Because of this, I feel great shame while serving.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): The meaning is that I had pride in my beauty before Shri Thakurji, and now I am experiencing its result. If Shri Gusainji is merciful, please request him on my behalf. She sealed the letter and sent it to Shri Gusainji through Purushottamdas. Purushottamdas read the letter aloud to Shri Gusainji and placed the seal before him, requesting on her behalf. Shri Gusainji said to Purushottamdas, “I will say something in two or four days.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This happened because of her pride in her beauty in the divine play. Upon reflection, there were no other offenses found. Three days later, Shri Gusainji told Purushottamdas, “Write to Parvati: in a few days her physical suffering will end. She should not feel shame in service. Shri Thakurji will remove her illness in a short time.”
Purushottamdas wrote to Parvati, including Shri Gusainji’s words, and sent the letter. When the letter reached Parvati, she read it and became happy. She began serving without any shame or hesitation. After three or four months, her hands and feet became well again. She became very joyful and started serving enthusiastically.
Then she wrote another letter to Shri Gusainji, sending it through Purushottamdas Mehra. In it, she wrote: “It is by Maharaj’s grace that I have been cured.” She also sent an offering. Purushottamdas read the letter to Shri Gusainji. Shri Gusainji was very pleased. Parvati was such a devoted Vaishnav that she always acted according to the Lord’s command. Therefore, Shri Gusainji was always pleased with her. Her story is endless; only so much is spoken here.
Padmanabhdas’s grandson, Parvati’s son Raghunathdas
Now about Shri Acharyaji’s sevak Padmanabhdas’s grandson, Parvati’s son Raghunathdas. The sentiment of his story is described here:
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): In the divine play, Parvati is Rupvilasini, a rajasi (royal-natured) devotee, and Raghunathdas is named Gunabhiranya. He possesses many qualities. What others may take a whole day to do, he accomplishes in an hour. He is tamasi by nature. Both he and Parvati are sakhis of Sucharita of equal standing. Both are obedient to Purushottamdas Mehra.
Prasang 1 Raghunathdas’s Study and Shri Gusainji’s Guidance
Raghunathdas went to Kashi. There he studied many scriptures and then came to Shri Gokul. He had darshan of Shri Gusainji and offered full obeisances. Shri Gusainji, knowing him as the sevak of Shri Acharyaji, honored him greatly. Shri Gusainji used to narrate the katha of Subodhiniji, and he seated Raghunathdas in front. One day, Paramanand Soni asked Raghunathdas, “You have studied many scriptures in Kashi. So today Shri Gusainji has narrated katha. Please explain it.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): Shri Gusainji honored Raghunathdas greatly, knowing him as the sakhi of Shri Acharyaji’s sevak Padmanabhdas. Paramananddas, in the divine play, is Chandrika. Like the brightness of the moon, his body radiates. Shri Gusainji (Shri Chandravaliji), surrounded by many forms of the moon, has him as an intimate associate. Therefore, Raghunathdas spoke words with a feeling of hesitation.
Raghunathdas said to Paramanand Soni, “If you ask truthfully, I do not understand anything. I do not know the traditions of Shri Acharyaji’s path nor the principles of the path.” At this, his pride and honor were humbled.
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This shows that studying scriptures, Vedas, and Puranas does not lead to understanding the principles of Shri Acharyaji’s granths. Only through grace can one know them. It is by grace alone that understanding comes.
Afterward, Paramanand Soni spoke to Shri Gusainji, “Maharaj! Raghunathdas does not seem to understand anything.” Then Shri Gusainji taught Raghunathdas the meanings of four granths and explained the path’s system:
In Siddhantarahasya, he explained all the principles of the path.
In Krishnashraya, he firmly established one’s shelter in Krishna.
In Navratna, he removed concerns related to worldly and Vedic matters.
In Sevaphala, he described the fruits of seva.
Thereafter, Raghunathdas began to understand. He started knowing the inner meanings of Shri Gusainji’s katha, the nature of the divine play, and became a great scholar.
Prasang 2 Raghunathdas’s Solitary Service and Realization
Some days later, he returned to Kannauj and, after seeking permission, engaged in Bhagavad-seva with increased affection. Then he said to his mother Parvati, “I will now become independent and perform Shri Thakurji’s seva.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This implies that Parvati and Raghunathdas are sakhis of equal standing. Parvati is rajasi, and Raghunathdas is tamasi. Parvati, through seva, had bound Shri Thakurji to herself. Seeing this difference, Raghunathdas could not bear it and thought, “Shri Thakurji has been won over by her devotion. Now I will also try to bind Him through my seva.” He told Parvati, “I will perform seva independently.”
Parvati replied, “Go ahead and serve. Love is not to be divided. Everything will happen by Shri Acharyaji’s grace.” Afterward, Raghunathdas began serving independently. His mother Parvati would bring water, clean vessels, and manage all preparations for Shri Thakurji. Raghunathdas, in his solitary house, would lay a simple leaf plate and offer food with devotion. Afterward, he would take a sip of water and eat. He gave up all royal foods, comforts, and pleasures, performing seva in this manner for four days.
Then Shri Mathuranathji spoke to him, “You are blessed. You have not stopped serving Me. You have renounced all your comforts and endured much hardship. But now, at least sometimes, dine properly. In your house, when you lay down on the bare floor, it makes a sound.”
Parvati then said, “Maharaj! But every day in Raghunathdas’s house, He prepares rice, kheer, curries, and other items with care. Why does the floor creak?” Shri Thakurji replied to Parvati, “It is your food that pleases Me. That is why I dine alone in your house.”
Bhav Prakash (Revealing the Sentiment): This shows that it is love that pleases Shri Thakurji, not prideful offerings of elaborate meals. Though He ate in Raghunathdas’s house, it was only due to Shri Acharyaji’s grace. Yet, what Parvati offered delighted Him greatly. Shri Thakurji also told Parvati, “When I say I will dine in My house, you must prepare all the items. Afterward, you will partake as prasadi. That will give Me joy.”
Thus, Parvati thought of making Shri Thakurji happy and hurriedly went to her house to prepare rice, curries, and everything needed. She resolved, “Whatever pleases Shri Thakurji, I must do.”
Afterward, Raghunathdas served for a few more days and then realized, “Parvati’s seva was done without pride. That is why Shri Thakurji was pleased with her. My seva, done with pride, is not pleasing to Him. If I join with the Bhagavadiya (devotee) and serve, then Shri Thakurji will be pleased. If I act out of pride, even this seva will be lost.” This realization came due to Shri Gusainji’s teaching of the path’s principles and his grace.
Then Raghunathdas said to Parvati, “Mother! Now you alone perform the seva. I will do as you instruct. I made a mistake.” Parvati bore no resentment. She was a pure devotee. Happily, she began cooking again, and Raghunathdas took up duties like arranging the deity’s ornaments. Serving together in this way, love grew between them. They began to experience equal devotion.
Thus, Padmanabhdas’s family became extraordinary. In this way, seven Vaishnavs arose. But since Padmanabhdas’s family and descendants are considered as one, they are counted as a single story, i.e., fourth story.
· · ────── ꒰ঌ·✦·໒꒱ ────── · ·
Comments
Post a Comment