84 Vaishnav Story 84 Krishnadasji

Long ago, in the little town of Chilotara in Gujarat, a boy named Krishnadas was born into a family of caretakers. His father, the leader of the town, invited wise Brahmins from nearby villages to bless his newborn and tell him about his future. The Brahmins, however, gave a surprising prediction. They said, “Your son will grow into a great devotee of Shri Krishna and will leave home to live for Him. You should name him Krishnadas.”

Hearing this, Krishnadas’s father felt sad. He had hoped his son would stay at home and carry on the family name. But little Krishnadas was no ordinary child. From the tender age of five, he loved hearing stories about Shri Krishna’s pastimes. When his parents wouldn’t share these tales, he would cry and refuse to eat or drink until they did. His heart belonged to Shri Krishna even as a child.

As Krishnadas grew older, his longing for Shri Krishna became stronger. One day, he left home to go on a holy pilgrimage. He traveled far and wide and finally reached Mathura. There, after bathing in the sacred Yamuna River, he heard that a temple for Shri Nathji was being built near Govardhan Hill. Excited to see Shri Nathji, Krishnadas rushed there.

At the temple, he saw Shri Mahaprabhuji waving lights before Shri Nathji in a beautiful ceremony. Krishnadas felt his heart melt. It was as if Shri Nathji had called him home. Shri Mahaprabhuji looked at him with kind eyes and said softly, “After such a long time, my Krishnadas has come back to me.” Krishnadas fell at Shri Mahaprabhuji’s feet and asked for initiation. Shri Mahaprabhuji lovingly granted his wish, and from that moment, Krishnadas began experiencing Shri Krishna’s divine pastimes in his heart.

On another journey, Krishnadas visited the home of Mirabai, a famous saint. She asked him to stay, but he gently replied, “I only stay where Shri Mahaprabhuji’s disciples live.” When Mirabai offered gold coins for Shri Nathji’s temple, Krishnadas refused. “I cannot accept offerings from someone who is not Shri Mahaprabhuji’s follower,” he explained. Seeing this, the people around were amazed. They whispered, “If even Shri Mahaprabhuji’s disciple is so pure-hearted, how great must his guru be?”

Later, Shri Gusainji, Shri Mahaprabhuji’s son, placed Krishnadas in charge of the temple’s daily services. With love and care, Krishnadas oversaw all arrangements. He traveled with a group of 25 men, chariots, and wagons, and people everywhere knew his name.

Once, Krishnadas expressed his wish to visit Vrindavan. Shri Gusainji warned him, “You may face trouble there.” But Krishnadas went anyway. As soon as he arrived, he fell ill with a high fever. He asked for water from a follower of Shri Mahaprabhuji, but the only one nearby was a humble sweeper from Gokul. The sweeper went to the Yamuna to fetch water and met Shri Gusainji on the way. Hearing of Krishnadas’s suffering, Shri Gusainji rushed to Vrindavan and gave Krishnadas some of his own water. Feeling better, Krishnadas admitted, “I should have listened to your advice.” Together, they returned to Govardhan.

One afternoon, a devotee gave Krishnadas 300 rupees to build a well near Govardhan Hill. Krishnadas used 200 rupees to dig the well and planned to use the remaining 100 to line its sides with cement. But when he went to inspect the well, leaning in with his cane, he slipped and fell in. Helpers rushed down with ropes but could not find him.

When news of this reached Shri Gusainji, he calmly said, “Krishnadas’s service and poems about Shri Krishna’s rasa lila are unmatched. Shri Nathji is forever pleased with him. There will never be another like Krishnadas.”

To this day, the story of Krishnadas inspires Vaishnavas everywhere to live with devotion, humility, and love for Shri Krishna.

Poem: Krishnadas the Pure Heart

Krishnadas heard the Lord’s sweet name,

From childhood on, it lit his flame.

He left his home to serve and pray,

And found Shri Nathji on his way.

He stood so firm, his heart so true,

Refused gold coins, though offered too.

He cared for seva, with love so wide,

With Shri Mahaprabhuji as his guide.

He fell one day in a well so deep,

But Shri Nathji’s grace made all hearts weep.

The tale of Krishnadas, shining bright,

Teaches us to walk in dharma’s light.

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84 Vaishnav Story 83 Kumbhandasji

Kumbhanadas grew up in a quiet village called Yamuna Vatah. From a young age, he never cared for the busy life of the world. He loved being truthful and stayed away from anything wrong. When he was a young man, he got married. His wife was not deeply connected to Shri Krishna's pastimes, but because of her closeness to Kumbhanadas, she too became pure.

One day, Shri Krishna appeared in a vision to Shri Mahaprabhuji as He stayed in the southern town of Jarakund. Shri Krishna said, "I am now at Govardhan Hill. Come and establish My worship for the world to see."

Hearing this, Shri Mahaprabhuji traveled with five dear disciples to Braj. When they reached Govardhan Hill, he began serving Shri Nathji. Many local people started following him with love and devotion.

When Kumbhanadas heard about the arrival of a great saint, he told his wife, "Let us go to Anyor and take shelter of Shri Mahaprabhuji." His wife agreed and thought to herself, "Perhaps this holy man will bless me so I may have children."

Together they went and bowed before Shri Mahaprabhuji. Kumbhanadas said softly, "I have wandered for so long. Please bless me with Your grace."

Because Kumbhanadas was a divine soul, he could see the true spiritual form of Shri Mahaprabhuji. The guru gave initiation to the couple. His wife humbly asked, "Please bless me to have children."

Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled and said, "Do not worry. You will have seven children."

Later, Kumbhanadas asked his wife gently, "Why did you ask for that? You could have asked for the Lord Himself." She replied, "You ask for what you wish, and I asked for what I desired."

Shri Mahaprabhuji built a small hut for Shri Nathji at the top of Govardhan Hill and gave the service of worship to Ramdasji. The local villagers, including Kumbhanadas, were told, "Shri Nathji is everything to us. Serve Him well. Only take prasad after seeing Him."

Shri Mahaprabhuji knew Kumbhanadas had a sweet voice and asked him to sing every day for Shri Nathji. One morning, after waking Shri Nathji, he asked, "Kumbhanadas, sing something about Shri Krishna’s pastimes."

Kumbhanadas sang a song so beautiful that it touched everyone’s hearts. He always sang about the intimate play of Shri Radha and Shri Krishna. Every day, he walked from his village to the temple to sing for Shri Nathji. Shri Nathji Himself would reveal His divine form to Kumbhanadas and even speak with him lovingly.

One day, a musician sang one of Kumbhanadas’s songs before Emperor Akbar at his palace in Fatehpur Sikri. The emperor was enchanted. "Who has seen the Lord so closely to compose such words?" he asked.

The musician replied, "It was written by Kumbhanadas. He lives near Govardhan Hill."

Akbar sent many men with grand vehicles to bring Kumbhanadas to his court. But Kumbhanadas was working in his fields near Chandra Lake. When the emperor’s men found him, they said, "The emperor commands your presence."

Kumbhanadas replied calmly, "I am a simple servant of Shri Krishna. I have no business with kings."

They begged, "Please come, or the emperor may punish us."

Kumbhanadas finally agreed but said firmly, "I will not ride in a chariot or on a horse. I will walk."

So he walked in his torn shirt and ragged shoes to the palace. Akbar greeted him and asked, "Sing some of your poems about the Lord."

Kumbhanadas thought, "I cannot sing of Shri Krishna in front of this man who separated me from my Beloved. I will sing something that shows my heart."

He sang:

What joy is there for me in Sikri? My shoes wore out on this path, And I forgot the name of Hari. I bow before a face that pains my eyes. Says Kumbhanadas, Without Shri Krishna, This whole place is empty.

Hearing the song, Akbar was silent. He felt a mix of anger and awe. But instead of punishing Kumbhanadas, he said, "Ask for any gift."

Kumbhanadas answered, "Never call me here again."

As he walked back to Shri Nathji, he felt an aching longing to see Him. When he finally reached the temple, seeing Shri Krishna’s face wiped away all his sorrow. Shri Nathji said with love, "Kumbhanadas, you cannot live without Me, and I too cannot be without you."

One day, great saints from Vrindavan like Shri Hita Harivamshji and Shri Haridasji came to meet Kumbhanadas. They said, "We have heard your songs of Shri Radha and Shri Krishna, but never one about Shri Swaminiji alone. Will you sing for us?"

Kumbhanadas sang a gentle song about Shri Swaminiji’s beauty. The saints were amazed. "We have compared her face to the moon, but you have compared it to billions of moons. No one has expressed her beauty like this."

Kumbhanadas once asked Shri Mahaprabhuji about the secrets of the Path of Grace. Shri Mahaprabhuji kindly explained the eighty-four signs of different devotees, how to perform seva throughout the day, and the moods of Shri Krishna’s childhood pastimes.

Years passed, and Kumbhanadas grew weak. One day, sitting near Sankarshan Lake below Shri Nathji’s temple, his son Chaturbhujadas asked, "Shall I carry you home?"

Kumbhanadas said softly, "Let me rest here. I will leave this body soon."

Chaturbhujadas went to the temple and informed Shri Gusainji. Shri Gusainji hurried to Kumbhanadas and asked, "Where is your mind resting now?"

Kumbhanadas, unable to speak, sang a final heartfelt song. Then, with his mind fixed on Shri Krishna, he left his body and entered the Lord’s eternal pastimes.

Shri Gusainji quietly returned to the temple. Ramdasji asked, "What has happened?"

Shri Gusainji said with deep respect, "A great devotee has left this world."

Kumbhanadas’s life was truly a shining example of love and surrender.

Poem: The Song of Kumbhanadas

Kumbhanadas sang with a heart so bright, Walking to Shri Nathji from morning till night. Akbar called him, but he did not stay, For his heart longed for Shri Krishna each day.

He sang of Swaminiji’s beauty divine, Of Shri Radha and Krishna whose love did shine. In his final hour, he sang once more, And walked into Shri Krishna’s loving shore.

Children, remember this gentle song, Stay close to the Lord, you’ll never go wrong.

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84 Vaishnav Story 82 Paramananddasji

Paramanandadas spent a happy childhood in Kanauja. As he grew, his love for Shri Krishna blossomed like a flower. He became a great poet, singing countless beautiful songs about Shri Krishna’s pastimes. People lovingly called him “Swami,” and he had many followers. Among them were musicians who admired his deep devotion.

One night, as Paramanandadas sang with all his heart, something amazing happened. In a dream, he saw Shri Navanita Priyaji, sitting joyfully on Kapur’s lap, listening to his kirtan. Shri Navanita Priyaji laughed and said to him, “Today, after so many days, I have finally heard your songs. Shri Mahaprabhuji’s blessed disciple Kapur came to listen, and I came with him.”

When Paramanandadas awoke, the sweet beauty of Shri Krishna’s form filled his mind. It shone brighter than a million love gods. His heart longed to see that divine vision again. He thought, “All these years I have sung about Shri Krishna, but only now did I receive such grace. It must be because Kapur came to hear me. I should meet him and thank him.”

Later, Paramanandadas traveled to Prayag for the Maha Makar festival. Across the river, in Adel, Shri Mahaprabhuji was staying. People from Adel who had heard Paramanandadas sing told Shri Mahaprabhuji about him. Shri Mahaprabhuji said kindly, “He is surely talented. He must be a divine soul.”

Kapur, Shri Mahaprabhuji’s disciple, carried water as his service. But he also loved music and longed to hear Paramanandadas. One day, a Vaishnava visiting Adel told Kapur that Paramanandadas sang every night for hours. On the eleventh lunar day, he would sing all night. Kapur was excited and went to listen.

That night, Paramanandadas sang with deep feeling. His first song described the pain of the people of Braja after Shri Krishna left for Mathura. He then sang about the gopis speaking to Uddhava, Shri Krishna’s messenger, when he tried teaching them yoga. For the whole night, his songs were filled with longing and separation. As dawn neared, he finished singing. Kapur, moved by the music, greeted him with, “Jai Shri Krishna” and returned to Adel, convinced that Paramanandadas’s singing was truly divine.

Exhausted, Paramanandadas fell asleep. Again, in his dream, he saw Shri Navanita Priyaji laughing happily, sitting on Kapur’s lap. Shri Navanita Priyaji said, “It was because of Kapur’s visit that I came to hear you.” When he awoke, Paramanandadas felt speechless. He thought, “If Shri Krishna Himself listened to my songs because of Kapur, it must be because Shri Mahaprabhuji is his guru. I wish to become Shri Mahaprabhuji’s disciple too.”

Soon, Paramanandadas went to Adel and saw Shri Mahaprabhuji performing prayers on the Yamuna’s banks. As he watched, Shri Mahaprabhuji’s divine form appeared before his eyes, filling him with awe. Shri Mahaprabhuji looked at him and said, “Paramanandadas, sing something of Shri Krishna’s lilas.”

With folded hands, Paramanandadas bowed low and sang a song about Shri Krishna’s departure from Braja to Mathura. Shri Mahaprabhuji then asked, “Sing about Shri Krishna’s childhood pastimes.”

Paramanandadas humbly replied, “I don’t know about the Lord’s childhood lilas.” Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled and said, “Go bathe in the Yamuna. Afterwards, I will explain it to you.”

After his bath, Paramanandadas went with Kapur to Shri Mahaprabhuji’s temple. There, Shri Mahaprabhuji had completed decorating Shri Nathji and offering Him food. Paramanandadas bowed deeply. Shri Mahaprabhuji gave him a seat and began to teach him the Tenth Canto of the Shrimad Bhagavatam. As Shri Mahaprabhuji spoke, a wave of divine love and wisdom washed over Paramanandadas. He felt Shri Krishna’s lilas and form enter his heart.

From that day on, Paramanandadas began composing sweet songs about Shri Krishna’s childhood lilas. His earlier songs had expressed the pain of separation, but now they carried the joy of union. Shri Mahaprabhuji was very pleased and gave him the seva of singing all day for Shri Navanita Priyaji.

One day, as they traveled together, Paramanandadas invited Shri Mahaprabhuji to his home in Kanauja. He prepared offerings for Shri Krishna with great devotion. After Shri Mahaprabhuji offered the food and took prasada, he asked Paramanandadas to sing.

Remembering Shri Mahaprabhuji’s deep love for Shri Krishna’s Braja lilas, Paramanandadas began a song of separation. But as he sang the first line, Shri Mahaprabhuji became so absorbed in Shri Krishna’s pastimes that he lost awareness of the world for three days. The Vaishnavas quietly stayed nearby, understanding the depth of their guru’s devotion. When Shri Mahaprabhuji finally opened his eyes, everyone rejoiced. Paramanandadas decided never again to sing such intense songs of separation in front of his guru, fearing that Shri Mahaprabhuji might leave this world completely absorbed in Shri Krishna’s lilas.

Later, in Gokul, Shri Mahaprabhuji taught him the Yamunashtak. As he learned, Shri Yamunaji’s divine form shone in his heart, and he sang of her glories with love.

In Govardhan, Shri Mahaprabhuji took Paramanandadas to Shri Nathji’s temple and asked him to sing for Shri Nathji. Paramanandadas felt overwhelmed by the infinite lilas but composed a poem praising Shri Krishna’s incarnation, his playful pastimes, the beauty of His lotus feet, and the sweetness of His form. Shri Mahaprabhuji was delighted and later offered him prasada milk from the temple. When Paramanandadas found it too hot, Shri Mahaprabhuji lovingly told the cooks to offer milk at a perfect drinking temperature in the future.

With Shri Mahaprabhuji’s blessings, Paramanandadas composed thousands of poems filled with the tender moods of Shri Krishna’s lilas. His songs became a treasure for all devotees, teaching them love, devotion, and the sweetness of Shri Krishna’s divine play.

Poem: The Songs of Love

In Kanauja’s lanes, a poet sang,

Songs of Shri Krishna, his heart would clang.

Kapur came listening, so pure and true,

Shri Navanita Priyaji smiled at the view.

Shri Mahaprabhuji’s grace flowed so wide,

Paramanandadas sat with tears in his eyes.

Childhood lilas began to bloom,

Sweet as flowers in fragrant perfume.

Govardhan echoed with tunes of delight,

Shri Nathji listened with joy so bright.

With Yamunaji’s song in his tender heart,

He vowed from his guru to never part.

Sing of love with a heart so free,

Where Krishna’s lilas dance endlessly.

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84 Vaishnav Story 81 Surdasji

Long ago in a quiet village called Goghat, there lived a gentle and wise poet named Suradasji. Though he could not see with his eyes, his heart was full of love for Shri Krishna. He spent his days singing songs about the Lord and teaching many disciples who came to learn from him.

One day, Suradasji’s disciples brought exciting news. Shri Mahaprabhuji, the great saint who had shown the Path of Grace to the world, had come to their village. Suradasji felt his heart leap with joy. He asked his disciples to let him know when Shri Mahaprabhuji had finished his meal and was ready to meet visitors.

When the time came, Suradasji went to see Shri Mahaprabhuji, surrounded by his own disciples. Shri Mahaprabhuji welcomed him kindly and offered him a seat. With folded hands, Suradasji bowed low to the ground.

Shri Mahaprabhuji asked Suradasji to sing a song in praise of Shri Krishna. Suradasji’s sweet voice filled the air as he sang two beautiful poems. Pleased, Shri Mahaprabhuji then asked him to sing about Shri Krishna’s playful lilas (divine pastimes). Suradasji humbly said, “I do not know the lilas. I cannot sing of what I do not understand.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled and said gently, “Go and bathe in the Yamuna river. Then come back to me, and I will show you the lilas.”

After his bath in the sacred river, Suradasji returned. Shri Mahaprabhuji blessed him with the ashtakshara mantra and gave him Brahmasambandha, the special initiation that connected his soul to Shri Krishna forever. As Shri Mahaprabhuji explained the Tenth Canto of the Shrimad Bhagavatam, Suradasji’s heart overflowed with devotion. He felt as if the entire world had disappeared and only Shri Krishna remained.

With these blessings, Suradasji began to truly see the Lord’s lilas with his inner eyes. Sitting on the banks of the Yamuna, he sang about Shri Krishna’s appearance day, describing the joy of the people in Braj as their beloved Lord was born.

When Suradasji started singing of the Gopis’ deep love for Shri Krishna, Shri Mahaprabhuji softly stopped him. “These feelings are too sacred to share with everyone,” he said. “Such devotion is only for the purest of hearts.” Suradasji understood and accepted this with humility.

He called his disciples and said, “Surrender to Shri Mahaprabhuji as I have done. In his grace lies the perfection of life.” From that day, Suradasji no longer wished to be called “Swami.” He became “Das” – a humble servant at the feet of Shri Mahaprabhuji.

Soon, Shri Mahaprabhuji and his group, including Suradasji, left Goghat for Gokul, the sacred land where Shri Krishna spent his childhood. When they arrived, Suradasji bowed deeply to the holy soil. With great devotion, he sang about Shri Krishna’s childhood games, laughter, and sweet pranks.

Shri Mahaprabhuji, noticing Suradasji’s deep love, decided to honor him. He gave Suradasji the duty of singing for Shri Nathji, so that the Lord could hear songs of His own daily and festive lilas.

At Govardhan Hill, Shri Mahaprabhuji asked Suradasji to bathe and then come for Shri Nathji’s darshan. When Suradasji entered the temple, Shri Mahaprabhuji said, “There is no more darkness in your heart. Continue to sing of the Lord’s lilas with joy and love.”

Suradasji obeyed. Every day, with a pure heart and divine vision, he sang of Shri Krishna’s cowherding, forest meals, dances, and endless games. His songs came alive with the sweetness of Braj, and Shri Mahaprabhuji praised him as an ocean of devotion.

One day, even Emperor Akbar heard of Suradasji’s fame. He sent his court singer, Tansen, to meet the poet. When Akbar himself visited, he requested Suradasji to sing. Suradasji sang a song so full of love for Shri Krishna that Akbar was deeply moved.

To test him, Akbar offered Suradasji wealth and land if he would compose a song praising the emperor. But Suradasji refused gently and said, “I have only one desire – to sing of Shri Krishna. My heart thirsts only for His darshan.”

Akbar tried again and asked, “How can a blind man’s eyes thirst for seeing?” Suradasji replied with a smile, “Eyes of the heart see more than physical eyes. True love longs for the Lord’s beauty endlessly.”

Akbar, humbled, offered him gifts, but Suradasji politely declined. “Please, never call me again,” he said and returned to his service of Shri Nathji.

Back at the temple, Suradasji continued to sing for Shri Krishna. Sometimes, he also sang cradle songs for Navanita Priyaji, Shri Krishna’s child form. Shri Gusainji, the son of Shri Mahaprabhuji, was delighted by Suradasji’s poems and even taught him some songs to sing to the Lord.

Suradasji spent his life in devotion, singing more than one hundred twenty-five thousand poems. One day, Shri Krishna appeared to him and said lovingly, “Your wish is fulfilled, Suradasji. Now return to My eternal home.”

Feeling immense bliss, Suradasji went to Parasoli. He lay down and remembered Shri Krishna and Shri Gusainji. Shri Gusainji, sensing what was happening, came to see him. Suradasji opened his eyes and smiled. “I have been waiting for you,” he whispered.

With tears of love, he sang his final song and fixed his mind on Shri Krishna and Shri Radha. Quietly, his soul left his body and merged into the divine lilas forever.

Through humility and service, Suradasji reached the highest state of devotion. His life taught that true joy comes from surrendering to the Lord and helping others find the path of love.

Poem: Suradasji’s Song

Suradasji sang with a heart so bright,

Though his eyes were closed, his soul had sight.

He saw Shri Krishna dance and play,

And sang His glories night and day.

Emperor’s gold could not turn his mind,

For Suradasji’s love was of the rarest kind.

He lived in the Lord, his songs so sweet,

With every note, Shri Krishna’s feet.

When the Lord called him home with grace,

Suradasji smiled and left this place.

His story tells of love so pure,

Serve with humility, and joy is sure.

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84 Vaishnav Story 80 Badarayanadas

Long ago in Gujarat, there lived a kind man named Vada and his loving wife. Vada was deeply devoted to Shri Krishna and often listened to the holy Shrimad Bhagavata. His teacher, Vachava Bhatt, would travel from place to place, reading the sacred text and sharing its teachings with others. Vada and his wife respected him and followed his guidance with faith.

One day, Shri Mahaprabhuji was traveling to Dwarka and stopped in Vada’s town, Moravi. The news spread quickly, and all the Vaishnavas in the town went to see Shri Mahaprabhuji. Vada joined them, eager to meet this saintly figure.

Shri Mahaprabhuji was sitting peacefully and explaining his Subodhini, a commentary on the Bhagavata. His words were filled with such depth and sweetness that Vada felt something he had never felt before. He became so absorbed in Shri Mahaprabhuji’s discourse that he forgot his body completely. Time seemed to stop as his heart was filled with devotion.

When Vada came back to his senses, he thought, “I have heard the Bhagavata many times from my guru, but never like this. Shri Mahaprabhuji’s words touch the soul so deeply.”

Moved by this feeling, Vada approached Shri Mahaprabhuji and humbly requested to become his disciple. But Shri Mahaprabhuji said gently, “You already have a guru. Why do you seek another?”

Vada felt sad but respected Shri Mahaprabhuji’s words. He returned home and shared everything with his wife. She listened carefully and said with determination, “You don’t know how to ask properly. Take me to him. I will speak from my heart.”

Together, they went again to Shri Mahaprabhuji. This time, Vada’s wife spoke with deep sincerity. “My Lord,” she said, “you have appeared on this earth to uplift souls like us. Vachava Bhatt, our guru, travels around reading the Bhagavata, but his life is about earning a living. How can such a person help us reach Shri Krishna? Please accept us as your disciples.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji saw the purity and longing in her heart. The next morning, he visited their home. With great compassion, he initiated Vada, his wife, and their entire family into the Path of Grace. Shri Mahaprabhuji renamed Vada as Badarayanadas, marking the beginning of their new life of devotion.

Filled with joy, Badarayanadas and his wife followed Shri Mahaprabhuji to Dwarka. For over a year, they served him with great love and humility. They carried water, helped in cooking, and even washed Shri Mahaprabhuji’s clothes. Every small act of service became a way to express their love for Shri Krishna.

Pleased with their pure hearts and selfless devotion, Shri Mahaprabhuji blessed them and said, “Now return to your home and serve Shri Krishna there. Perform seva with all your love.”

Badarayanadas and his wife bowed down to Shri Mahaprabhuji and returned to their town. Back home, they spent their days in worship and devotion, feeling the presence of Shri Krishna in every moment. Their lives became a beautiful example of love, humility, and service.

This story reminds us that true devotion comes from a humble heart. It teaches us that even simple acts of service, when done with love, bring us closer to Shri Krishna.

Poem: The Gift of a Pure Heart

In Gujarat lived a pair so kind,

With Shri Krishna always on their mind.

They heard the Bhagavata day and night,

But longed for a path that felt so right.

Shri Mahaprabhuji’s words touched their soul,

They wished to serve and be made whole.

With humble hearts, they did implore,

Till grace was theirs forevermore.

They carried water, cooked with care,

Washing clothes with love so rare.

At home they served with hearts so free,

Living in Shri Krishna’s melody.

This tale reminds both young and old,

A humble heart is worth more than gold.

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84 Vaishnav Story 79 Gopaldas Kshatriya of Naroda

Long ago, in the western part of India, there lived a boy named Gopaldas. From a very young age, Gopaldas was very smart. By the time he was just seven years old, he knew many scriptures and had become very famous. As he grew older, he became very rich. Wherever he went, ten people walked with him like guards. Gopaldas became proud and often found faults in others, even if they were good people.

One day, after getting married, Gopaldas was going home with his family. On the way, he met a learned man and got into a debate with him. They argued for three whole days, but Gopaldas could not win. The argument turned into a fight. Sadly, in the fight, Gopaldas’s father was hit by an arrow and passed away. Gopaldas tried to chase the man who caused it, but he could not find him. With a heavy heart, Gopaldas returned home after performing his father’s last rites.

Later, Gopaldas went to the holy city of Dwarka. There, he heard that a great saint and scholar, Shri Mahaprabhuji, was staying. Gopaldas, full of pride, thought he could defeat Shri Mahaprabhuji in a debate. But as soon as they began, Shri Mahaprabhuji gently defeated him with wisdom and calmness.

Gopaldas, confused, asked, “You say everything is Shri Krishna, but then why is a dog considered impure? Isn’t the whole world divine?”

Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled and explained, “Yes, the world is Shri Krishna’s form. But even then, some things are pure and some are not, just like clean and dirty water. Still, we must be kind to everyone, even animals. If you truly believe that everything is one, why do you feel proud? Why do you hate others? If you think you are the supreme soul, why do you wear clothes and do daily things like anyone else?”

These words touched Gopaldas’s heart. His pride slowly melted away. He bowed down and became a disciple of Shri Mahaprabhuji.

Later, Shri Mahaprabhuji told him something important. “Your wife and child are not divine souls. So, you will not be able to do Shri Krishna’s seva in your home. But because you love Shri Krishna deeply, you will feel His sweet separation. That feeling is also very special and will bring you closer to Him.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji gave Gopaldas a special mantra written on paper and said, “Offer all your food to this paper as if offering to Shri Krishna.” He also allowed Gopaldas to help other people come to the path by giving them mantra initiation. “You were born a svami,” he said. “You will share this path with many and win over people’s hearts.”

Soon, Gopaldas became known all over western India as a spiritual teacher.

One day, Shri Mahaprabhuji returned to visit Gopaldas’s home. Gopaldas was not there, so Shri Mahaprabhuji asked his young son, “Where has your father gone?”

The child proudly said, “He went to do Shri Krishna’s seva.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji gently frowned. “Seva is a quiet, secret act. One should not speak of it openly.”

A little while later, Gopaldas came home. Shri Mahaprabhuji asked, “Where were you?”

Gopaldas simply replied, “I had gone to fill my stomach.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji was pleased with this honest answer. It showed that Gopaldas had become humble and truthful.

Gopaldas had a strong wish to see Shri Nathji, the divine form of Shri Krishna. So he traveled to the holy place where Shri Nathji was worshipped. But while he was there, he fell sick with a high fever. One night, he became very thirsty. Everyone was asleep, and there was no water nearby. Gopaldas felt helpless.

Shri Nathji, who always cares for His loving bhaktas, felt Gopaldas’s pain. Shri Nathji Himself brought a pitcher of water and gave it to Gopaldas.

In the morning, the temple priests noticed that Shri Nathji’s pitcher was missing. Shri Nathji told Ramdasji, “I gave it to Gopaldas.”

Ramdasji went to ask Gopaldas, “Where did you get water last night?”

Gopaldas said, “I had fever and was so thirsty. Someone gave me water, but I don’t know who it was.”

Ramdasji smiled and said, “It was Shri Nathji Himself. You are truly blessed!”

Gopaldas was shocked. He felt sad that he caused trouble for Shri Nathji and scolded his disciples for not helping him. Before leaving, he visited the temple again to bow down to Shri Nathji. When he returned to his hometown, he felt Shri Krishna’s separation deeply. Day and night, he remembered the Lord and sang songs of longing. One of his songs went like this:

“Blessed will be that day,
When I see those lovely eyes,
Shri Nandakumar wearing a peacock crown,
With jewels shining bright and wise.”

Years passed. One day, Shri Gusainji, the son of Shri Mahaprabhuji, was traveling to Dwarka. He stopped near the town of Naroda, where Gopaldas lived. That day, Gopaldas was on his way to meet Shri Gusainji with two people. These people wanted to take mantra initiation from Shri Gusainji.

But Gopaldas said, “You can take initiation from me instead.”

They said again and again that they wished to be Shri Gusainji’s disciples. But Gopaldas, forgetting humility, insisted they become his followers.

When Shri Gusainji heard what happened, he told Gopaldas, “Shri Mahaprabhuji accepted you, so Shri Krishna will always be with you. But the people you initiated without proper guidance will remain outside the true path.”

Later, many of Gopaldas’s followers chose to follow Shri Gusainji instead. Those who didn’t were called Gargoj, which means water that has gotten separated from the holy river Ganga and become still and impure.

This story teaches us something very special. Pride can block us from seeing the truth, but humility opens our hearts to Shri Krishna’s love. Even though Gopaldas made mistakes, he truly loved Shri Krishna and was blessed to feel His presence and longing.

Poem: Gopaldas’s Journey

Gopaldas was clever and strong,

But pride made him feel he was never wrong.

He met Shri Mahaprabhuji wise and kind,

Who gently helped him change his mind.

From prideful talks to humble days,

He learned to walk in bhakti’s ways.

Shri Krishna’s love he came to feel,

And sang with longing deep and real.

Even sick and thirsty in the night,

Shri Nathji came with love so bright.

He gave him water with His hand,

A gift so pure, so sweet, so grand.

Though Gopaldas once led with pride,

He found the joy of Shri Krishna inside.

The story shows in every part,

True bhakti lives in a humble heart.

Tags: Vaishnav stories for kids, Shri Mahaprabhuji teachings, Gopaldas story for children, Shri Krishna devotion, Pushtimarg stories, humility in Hinduism, Sanatan Dharma values, bedtime spiritual stories, Shri Nathji miracles, devotional parenting, 84 Vaishnav child stories, Hindu teachings for families, Shri Gusainji and Gopaldas, faith and surrender for kids, stories of transformation in bhakti

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84 Vaishnav Story 78 Mavaji Patel and his wife Birajo

A long time ago, in the beautiful city of Ujjain, there lived a kind and wealthy couple named Mavaji Patel and his wife, Birajo. They loved Shri Krishna with all their hearts and spent their days helping others and sharing their blessings.

One day, Birajo felt a deep desire to see Shri Gusainji in Gokul. She wished to ask him how she could come closer to Shri Krishna and feel His presence in her heart. When she met Shri Gusainji, she asked softly, “Please tell me how I can truly experience Shri Krishna.”

Shri Gusainji smiled warmly and said, “Just as you love me and serve me with devotion, love and serve all Vaishnavas in the same way. Then Shri Krishna will surely fulfill all your wishes.”

Birajo returned home with great joy. She decided to invite many Vaishnavas from nearby towns to her home for a grand celebration. She gave them delicious food, gifts of money, clothes, and many other things. During this time, she also met a saintly man named Krishna Bhatt, who inspired her even more to remember Shri Krishna in every moment.

Twice every year, Birajo traveled to Gokul to visit Shri Gusainji and Shri Nathji’s temple. She never came empty-handed. One wagon carried sweet molasses, and another was full of rich, fragrant ghee. She stayed at Shri Nathji’s temple for fifteen days, offering large amounts of food and distributing the holy prasada to everyone. She fed the cows with grains and gave gifts to all the people doing seva in the temple. She even offered beautiful clothes and shiny jewels to Shri Nathji.

After her time at Shri Nathji’s temple, she would spend fifteen more days in Gokul, making more generous offerings to Shri Gusainji and his family. Her heart was full of love and happiness as she gave and served.

One day, while serving some Vaishnavas simple unsakari prasada, Birajo’s heart wished for something even more special. She thought, “How wonderful it would be if I could serve them all sakari prasada one day.”

Unsakari prasada included dry foods fried in ghee, but sakari prasada was rice and other grains boiled in water. Serving sakari was considered very auspicious and sacred.

When Birajo shared her wish with her husband, Mavaji Patel was overjoyed. He immediately offered one hundred thousand coins to make her dream come true. Krishna Bhatt helped by inviting Vaishnavas from all over western India. Soon, many Vaishnavas gathered in Ujjain and prepared to travel to Gokul, stopping at Shri Nathji’s temple along the way for grand celebrations.

When they reached Gokul, Krishna Bhatt humbly asked Shri Gusainji for permission to let Birajo serve sakari prasada to all the Vaishnavas. Shri Gusainji thought about it carefully. Usually, Brahmins accepted sakari prasada only from other Brahmins. Since Birajo was not a Brahmin, some people might not understand. But Shri Gusainji knew Birajo’s wish was pure and filled with love. He smiled and said, “Your desire will be fulfilled at Jagannath Puri.”

Jagannath Puri was a holy place where such rules about caste and cooking were not followed. There, everyone could receive prasada lovingly from anyone.

With great joy, Shri Gusainji agreed to travel with all the Vaishnavas to Jagannath Puri. Along the way, more and more devotees joined their happy procession. There was singing, dancing, and chanting of Shri Krishna’s name as they walked together.

When they reached Jagannath Puri, Birajo offered large amounts of food and served Shri Gusainji first with the sacred sakari prasada. Then she served all the Vaishnavas with her own hands. Her heart overflowed with joy. Tears of bliss filled her eyes, and her whole being felt light and filled with Shri Krishna’s grace. Her long-cherished wish had come true.

After staying there for some days, the entire group returned to Gokul, still singing and rejoicing. Whatever money was left, Birajo offered it all to Shri Gusainji before returning home. Back in Ujjain, she continued to serve Vaishnavas by feeding them, giving money, clothes, and pots to the needy, and spreading happiness everywhere.

The Vaishnavas loved Birajo dearly, and Shri Gusainji was always pleased with her devotion and generosity.

The Joyful Feast

Birajo’s heart was full of love so bright

She served with her hands, morning to night

Molasses and ghee, and grains in a row

To cows and to saints, her kindness would flow

She dreamed of a feast with rice and delight

For all of the Vaishnavas, her heart felt so light

At Jagannath Puri her wish came alive

With Shri Gusainji’s blessings, her joy did arrive

The moral we learn is gentle and sweet

Love all and serve all, make kindness complete

Tags: mavaji patel, birajo, shri gusainji, jagannath puri, vaishnav stories for kids, pushtimarg stories, hindu bedtime stories, spiritual stories for children, devotional parenting, vaishnav seva, kindness and generosity, nurturing hindu values, storytimelover pushtimarg, 84 vaishnav stories simplified

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84 Vaishnav Story 77 Sundardas Madhodas

Not far from the Jagannath Puri Temple in Orissa, there lived two good friends, Sundardas and Madhodas. Sundardas loved serving holy saints who visited his town. He would fetch water for them, bring their supplies, and even massage their tired feet. Madhodas, on the other hand, was a disciple of Krishna Chaitanya. He appeared to be a devotee of Shri Krishna, but in truth, his father had taught him to secretly worship a ghost.

One day, Shri Mahaprabhuji came to their town on his way to the Jagannath Temple. Sundardas felt drawn to Shri Mahaprabhuji and went to his camp, asking if there was any service he could do. When Shri Mahaprabhuji came outside, Sundardas was amazed by his divine glow. Seeing his pure heart, Shri Mahaprabhuji gave Sundardas some prasada. The moment Sundardas ate it, his mind became completely pure and full of peace. He began praising Shri Mahaprabhuji and humbly asked to become his disciple.

Shri Mahaprabhuji, pleased by his sincerity, accepted him. That whole night, Sundardas joyfully massaged Shri Mahaprabhuji’s feet. Even when Shri Mahaprabhuji asked him to take rest, Sundardas smiled and said, “I can sleep every night. But when will I get such a chance again?”

The next morning, Shri Mahaprabhuji went to Sundardas’s home. He blessed the house and even initiated Sundardas’s wife. Then he taught Sundardas how to serve Shri Krishna with love and care.

Sundardas cared deeply for his friend Madhodas. He thought, “If only Madhodas could also become Shri Mahaprabhuji’s disciple, his soul would be blessed.” But Madhodas refused, saying, “I already have a guru.”

Later, when Shri Mahaprabhuji stopped again at Sundardas’s house, Madhodas came to visit. He noticed Shri Mahaprabhuji taking food offerings to Shri Krishna and remarked, “Look, your guru’s offering is still full. My Lord eats everything I offer.”

Sundardas asked, “If your Lord eats it all, then what do you eat?”

Madhodas answered, “We set aside food for ourselves before making the offering.”

That evening, Sundardas shared this with Shri Mahaprabhuji. He said softly, “My friend says his Lord eats all his offerings.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji replied with a kind smile, “Dear Sundardas, your friend is mistaken. A ghost comes and eats his food. Shri Krishna’s prasada never diminishes. But since Madhodas is a divine soul and you care so much for him, his heart will soon awaken.”

The next day, Madhodas invited Shri Mahaprabhuji to witness his offering. Shri Mahaprabhuji came quietly and watched as Madhodas began. As Madhodas meditated, a ghost appeared, ready to eat the offering. But Shri Mahaprabhuji raised his hand and commanded, “Never return here again, or I will destroy you.” Frightened, the ghost fled.

When Madhodas came back, he saw the offering untouched and cried out, “Because of you, my Lord did not eat today!”

That night, in his sleep, Madhodas was visited by celestial servants of the Lord. They scolded him, “Today Shri Krishna finally accepted your offering, yet you insulted Shri Mahaprabhuji. If you ever act this way again, we will punish you.”

Shaken, Madhodas ran to Shri Mahaprabhuji the next morning. Falling to the ground, he begged, “Forgive me. I did not know your true form. My father taught me to worship that ghost, and I blindly followed. Now I will do as you say.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled warmly and said, “Call all the Vaishnavas in town to your home for prasada.”

Madhodas hesitated, “But there is only a little food. How can it be enough for everyone?”

Shri Mahaprabhuji replied, “Do not worry. Shri Krishna’s prasada never runs out.”

Madhodas obeyed. Soon his house was filled with Vaishnavas. Shri Mahaprabhuji served prasada to each guest. Even after everyone had eaten, the trays remained full, as if untouched.

Madhodas watched with wide eyes. His heart was overflowing with faith. From that day, his devotion to Shri Krishna became firm and pure. Both Madhodas and Sundardas spent the rest of their lives serving Shri Krishna with love and humility.

The Food That Never Ends (Poem)

Sundardas served with gentle hands,

Love for saints across the lands.

Madhodas prayed but lost his way,

Till Shri Mahaprabhuji came one day.

A ghost was eating what he gave,

But Shri Mahaprabhuji was wise and brave.

He sent the ghost forever away,

And taught Madhodas the true Lord to pray.

The food was shared, yet never gone,

A miracle shone like the golden dawn.

Two friends now walked the path so true,

With hearts of love both deep and new.

Serve with love and stand with right,

Shri Krishna’s grace will bring pure light.

Tags: sundardas madhodas story, vaishnav bedtime stories, pushtimarg for kids, hindu spiritual stories children, devotional tales for family, shri mahaprabhuji miracles, krishna bhakti story, simple satsang stories for children, hinduism stories for young readers, nurturing hindu values for kids

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84 Vaishnav Story 76 Santdas Chopda Kshatriya

A long time ago in the city of Agra, there lived a kind and wealthy man. For many years, he wished for a son who would grow up to love and serve Shri Krishna with all his heart. He visited many holy people, seeking their blessings. One day, someone advised him to worship Lord Shiva with deep faith and patience.

The man began his prayers with great devotion. He fasted, meditated, and offered flowers every single day. Then, one night, Lord Shiva appeared in his dream. “I am pleased with your prayers,” said Shiva. “What blessing do you wish for?”

The man folded his hands and replied, “Please grant me a son who will be a great devotee of Shri Krishna and bring joy to many.”

Lord Shiva paused and said gently, “Let me ask Shri Krishna if such a soul can be sent to your family. I will return tomorrow with my answer.”

That night, Shri Krishna told Shiva, “This man’s son will be born as a great bhakta. He will inspire many and uplift his family.”

The next evening, Shiva appeared again in the man’s dream. “You will have a saintly son,” he said, smiling.

And so, after nine months, a sweet baby boy was born. The happy parents named him Santdas.

When Santdas grew up, he married a kind young woman. Soon after their marriage, his father passed away. To ease his sadness, Santdas began attending spiritual talks and meeting holy people. One day, he met Shri Mahaprabhuji and felt a deep peace in his heart just from hearing him speak.

Santdas became Shri Mahaprabhuji’s disciple. Shri Mahaprabhuji also initiated Santdas’s wife and said, “Though she may not yet be a divine soul, she will achieve perfection through your company.”

Shri Mahaprabhuji then taught Santdas the thousand names of Shri Krishna. He told him lovingly, “By reciting these names, all your desires will be fulfilled. But remember, there will come a time when you lose your wealth. In those days, stay strong. Do not use Shri Krishna’s belongings for yourself. Trust in His grace and remain calm.”

Santdas listened carefully and promised to follow this advice. Before leaving for Braj, Shri Mahaprabhuji gifted Santdas beautiful clothes and ornaments for his Shri Krishna at home.

As time passed, Santdas’s wealth was indeed lost. Some of it was stolen, and the rest was taken away by the king. But Santdas did not feel sad. His heart was full of Shri Krishna’s love, and he felt richer than ever.

He now had only forty paisa. He began exchanging coins for people, earning a small profit of two and a half paisa each day. With his earnings, he bought lentils in summer and roasted chickpeas in winter to offer Shri Krishna. Whatever little remained, he shared with visiting Vaishnavas during evening satsangs.

One day, his friend Narayandasji heard of Santdas’s poverty. He sent him one hundred coins through the mailman, asking Santdas to give the mailman two paisa.

When Santdas received the money, he paid the mailman from his own daily earnings. But instead of using the gift, he sent all one hundred coins to Shri Gusainji. Santdas wrote to Narayandasji, “Your kindness has stopped me from making my Lord’s offering today. Please do not send me such gifts again.”

Though he still had forty-eight paisa left, Santdas would not touch it because it belonged to Shri Krishna. When Shri Gusainji received the money, he smiled and said, “Santdas is a true bhakta. He would never keep another Vaishnava’s wealth for himself.”

Every evening, Vaishnavas gathered at Santdas’s home for satsang. Lord Shiva himself would come in disguise, quietly listening from a corner.

In the same town, a wealthy man heard that Santdas gave his guests only simple roasted chickpeas. The man thought, “I can do better.” He invited Vaishnavas to his home and offered them rich sweets made with ghee. Many Vaishnavas went to the rich man’s satsang for fifteen days, but others stayed with Santdas, preferring the deep devotion they felt in his home.

Curious, the rich man came to Santdas’s satsang. But he understood nothing and fell asleep. When Santdas woke him and offered chickpeas, the man angrily threw them on the floor.

When Shri Gusainji heard about all this, he said, “Santdas is a saint filled with wisdom, strength, and surrender.”

Years passed, and Santdas grew old. On Shri Gusainji’s birthday, he could no longer travel to visit him. He wrote a letter asking Shri Gusainji to send two Vaishnavas to his home with prasada.

When they arrived, Santdas welcomed them warmly. He handed over everything he owned—his house and all of Shri Krishna’s belongings—to be sent to Shri Gusainji.

As Santdas lay on his deathbed, people said, “We will take you to a holy place like Mathura or Gokul. It is auspicious to die there.”

But Santdas smiled and said, “I have spent my whole life taking Shri Krishna’s shelter. Will these places make me any purer? And why pollute Gokul with the ashes of my body? Stay here and sing Shri Krishna’s glories instead.”

As his breath grew slower, Santdas began speaking to Shri Gusainji in his mind. With a gentle smile, he left his body while meditating on his guru.

When Shri Gusainji heard of his passing, he said, “Santdas was a real saint. He lived with wisdom, strength, and full surrender to Shri Krishna.”

The Pure Heart of Santdas (Poem)

In Agra town, a baby was born,

A saintly heart, so pure, so warm.

With simple love and gentle ways,

He served Shri Krishna all his days.

Though wealth was lost, his joy grew bright,

He sang of Krishna day and night.

With lentils, chickpeas, and a song,

His satsang drew the crowds along.

When riches tempted others near,

Santdas stayed humble, full of cheer.

He gave his all, both big and small,

To Shri Krishna, who gave him all.

At life’s sweet end, his voice so mild,

He smiled at Shri Gusainji like a child.

“Do not seek shrines, nor sacred land,

The Lord is here, He holds my hand.”

The moral: Serve with love, both rich and poor,

Shri Krishna’s grace will give you more.

Tags: santdass, vaishnav stories for kids, pushtimarg bedtime stories, hindu values for children, devotional stories for families, santdas satsang, shri mahaprabhuji teachings, satsang and seva for kids, spiritual stories hinduism, krishna bhakti children

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84 Vaishnav Story 75 Krishnadas and his wife

Krishnadas and his wife were married when they were very young. From the time they could remember, they always welcomed holy men and women at their door. They gave whatever they had with open hands and happy hearts.

One sunny afternoon, Krishnadas’s wife went with other village women to gather clay for their homes. As they worked, the clay pit suddenly caved in. The women screamed as the heavy earth fell over them.

At that very moment, Shri Mahaprabhuji was passing nearby. Seeing the accident, he quickly sent his followers to pull the women out. Shri Mahaprabhuji then softly spoke a sacred mantra over them. Amazingly, all their wounds healed right away.

Krishnadas’s wife bowed before Shri Mahaprabhuji and said with deep gratitude, “Your kindness has saved us all.” Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled gently and said, “Because you have a pure soul, everyone with you was saved too.”

Later, Shri Mahaprabhuji visited Krishnadas’s home. He gave them initiation and said, “You both should serve the Vaishnavas with all your love.” He stayed with them for three nights before continuing his journey to Dwarka. From that time on, Krishnadas and his wife welcomed every traveler and pilgrim who came to their village, feeding and caring for them as if they were family.

One day, a group of ten or fifteen Vaishnavas stopped at their home while on their way to see Shri Mahaprabhuji. Krishnadas was not at home, and there was no food or money left in the house. Krishnadas’s wife greeted them warmly, but her heart was troubled. She didn’t want the holy guests to leave hungry.

She remembered something the local grocer had once said: “If you spend an evening with me, I will give you anything you wish.” Though the thought hurt her, her desire to serve the Vaishnavas was stronger. She rushed to the grocer and offered to spend the evening with him in exchange for food. The grocer agreed and gave her everything she needed.

She hurried back and prepared a delicious meal for the Vaishnavas. She fed them lovingly and even gave the leftovers to their cow.

That evening, Krishnadas came home. He saw the Vaishnavas content and asked his wife, “What did you serve them? I know there was nothing in the house.”

His wife quietly told him what she had done. Hearing this, Krishnadas bowed at her feet and said, “You have done a wonderful and selfless thing. You have truly served the Lord’s devotees.”

The next evening, Krishnadas said gently, “That grocer must be waiting for you. Since he fulfilled your wish to feed the Vaishnavas, you should fulfill his wish too. Bathe and dress yourself beautifully.”

When she was ready, it began to rain heavily. Krishnadas saw the muddy road and said, “Your feet will get dirty and your henna will wash away. Let me carry you.” With great respect, he lifted her onto his shoulders and carried her to the grocer’s doorstep.

The grocer greeted her and offered water for her feet. She replied, “My feet are not dirty.”

The grocer was surprised. “How can your feet be clean when the road is full of mud?” he asked.

She answered calmly, “My husband carried me here on his shoulders.”

The grocer was shocked and asked why her husband would do such a thing. She told him the whole story of how she had served the Vaishnavas and how Krishnadas had supported her selfless act.

The grocer’s heart melted. He fell at her feet and said, “Forgive me. You and your husband are true saints.” He treated her like a sister, gifted her a new sari, and walked her home. At Krishnadas’s house, he bowed before both of them and begged for forgiveness.

The grocer said, “I wish to be your disciple.” But Krishnadas replied humbly, “I do not take disciples. You should seek initiation from Shri Mahaprabhuji.”

From that day on, the grocer visited Krishnadas and his wife daily, learning from their lives of love and devotion.

When Shri Mahaprabhuji visited again, Krishnadas and his wife shared the story with him. Shri Mahaprabhuji called the grocer and accepted him as a disciple. “Through the good company of Krishnadas and his wife,” he said, “you have found true knowledge.”

As Shri Mahaprabhuji prepared to leave the next morning, he blessed Krishnadas and his wife. “You are truly blessed,” he said. “You have served the Vaishnavas with your body, mind, and all you have. Serving the Lord and Guru is easy, but serving fellow Vaishnavas with such pure love is the greatest service of all.”

Poem: The Gift of Pure Love

Krishnadas and his dear wife,

Lived a simple, selfless life.

They fed the guests with all their heart,

Even when they had no part.

She went to the grocer, strong and brave,

To serve the Vaishnavas was all she gave.

Her husband smiled, his love so deep,

He carried her where the mud ran steep.

The grocer saw their hearts so true,

He bowed in awe, his soul felt new.

Shri Mahaprabhuji blessed them bright,

“You served with love, you served with light.”

Serve the saints with all you own,

In such love, the Lord is shown.

Tags: Krishnadas, Vaishnav stories for kids, Pushtimarg, Hindu bedtime stories, devotional parenting, Shri Mahaprabhuji, serving Vaishnavas, Sanatan Dharma for children, selfless service, Hindu family values, spiritual stories for kids

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84 Vaishnav Story 74 Gopaldas Jatadhari

Long ago, in the holy city of Prayag, a little boy named Gopaldas was born. He was just six years old when his father took him to the sacred place where the Ganga and Yamuna rivers meet. It was the winter festival of Makar, and the riverbanks were crowded with thousands of people who had come to bathe and pray.

But in the busy crowd, little Gopaldas lost sight of his father. Alone and scared, he looked around for help. A man dressed like a sadhu saw him crying and kindly said, “Come with me, child. I will take you back to your father.” But instead of helping, the man took Gopaldas far away to the South of India.

There, Gopaldas lived with the man until he grew into a young man of thirty. When the sadhu passed away, Gopaldas felt lost again. He joined a group of holy men who were traveling to Dwarka, the land of Shri Krishna’s pastimes. Later, he continued his journey to Mathura, where a new chapter of his life was about to begin.

One day, as he stood quietly on the banks of the Yamuna River, he saw a gentle figure sitting under a tree. It was Shri Mahaprabhuji, glowing with peace and love. A Vaishnav nearby said to him, “Why are you standing there alone? Your friends have all gone ahead.”

Gopaldas softly replied, “I have wandered so far and for so long. But now, I will stay with loving devotees and find my true Lord.”

At that very moment, Shri Mahaprabhuji looked up and called out with a smile, “Gopaldas, come here.” Gopaldas felt warmth in his heart. He went closer and bowed down. “I have walked many paths, but now I know your grace will lead me home,” he said with tears of gratitude.

Shri Mahaprabhuji then gave him a special service: “Go to Jatipura and take care of Shri Nathji’s garden.”

Gopaldas joyfully obeyed. In Jatipura, he worked in the garden with great love. He watered every plant, spoke kindly to each flower, and cared for every fruit as if Shri Krishna Himself would come to play among them.

But one day, a young Vaishnav boy sneaked into the garden and began picking flowers for his own worship. Gopaldas, feeling protective of the Lord’s garden, became very angry. He caught the boy and scolded him harshly. The boy broke free and ran straight into Shri Nathji’s temple, but Gopaldas, still upset, followed and grabbed him there. Seeing this, other Vaishnavas rushed in and stopped him.

Shri Nathji was saddened by Gopaldas’s anger towards the boy. To help him learn, Shri Mahaprabhuji gave Gopaldas a new service: to care for Shri Nathji’s betel leaves. Gopaldas now spent his nights gently fanning the precious leaves and keeping them cool with wet cloths during the hot season.

One evening, Shri Mahaprabhuji came to the temple and saw many devotees singing and talking. But Gopaldas was different. He was asleep, yet his hands continued to move the fan over the betel leaves. Shri Mahaprabhuji smiled, thinking, “Gopaldas’s service is so deep that even in sleep, his heart keeps serving.”

The next day, Shri Mahaprabhuji said, “From now on, fan Shri Nathji, but always keep your eyes closed.” Gopaldas followed the instruction with full faith. Day and night, he fanned the Lord with closed eyes.

One evening, Shri Nathji spoke sweetly to him, “Open your eyes and see Me.”

But Gopaldas replied, “Shri Mahaprabhuji has told me to keep them closed.”

Shri Nathji then placed some divine prasada into Gopaldas’s mouth, but even then, Gopaldas kept his eyes shut, staying true to his guru’s words. The Lord was so pleased with his devotion that He allowed Gopaldas to hear His playful talks with Shri Svaminiji.

Later, Shri Nathji decided to purify Gopaldas even more. “I must help him grow from the mistake he made with the boy,” thought the Lord. He inspired Gopaldas to leave the temple service and go on a pilgrimage.

After asking permission from Shri Mahaprabhuji, Gopaldas set out. The other devotees were surprised and wondered why such a dear servant of the Lord would leave. Shri Mahaprabhuji explained, “Through this journey, Gopaldas will feel a deep longing for Shri Nathji. In this sweet pain of separation, he will leave his body and join the Lord’s eternal play.”

As Gopaldas walked alone, far from the temple, he felt his heart fill with longing for Shri Nathji. Falling to the ground, he cried out, “Oh Lord, why did I ever leave Your service and the company of the devotees?”

In that moment of deep love, his soul left his body and entered Shri Krishna’s eternal pastimes. There, Gopaldas found his true home, serving the Lord forever in joy.

Poem: Gopaldasji’s Garden of Love

In Prayag’s crowd, a boy was lost,

To South he went, at a heavy cost.

Years rolled by, till one fine day,

He found Shri Mahaprabhuji to show him the way.

He cared for flowers, leaves, and trees,

He worked with love and felt at peace.

Though anger came and made him fall,

Shri Nathji’s mercy forgave it all.

With closed eyes, he served with grace,

Till longing took him to a higher place.

In Krishna’s land, where joy won’t end,

Gopaldas found his dearest friend.

Moral: Love and service done with faith and humility brings us closer to Shri Krishna’s eternal play.

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