R GOVINDA LLMTA * CHAPTER SEVEN "Description of Rdhkua" kiyaddra tato gatv nivtyodvartman hari; rdhkua samyta priy sangotsuka

priyam (1) After going some distance, Hari took a turn off the main road and came to Rdhkua over a secret path, eager to see His dearly beloved. (1) parito mai sopnvalibhi pariveitam; caturbhir mai sabaddha trthair diku suobhitam (2) trthoparisphurad ratna maapai sganair yutam; tat trthobhaya prvastha mai kuima maitam(3 prati maapa prvastha taru khvalambanai; yuta nn pupavsa citrair dol catuayai (4) ymye campakayo prve npayor mrayo pare; saumye bakulayor baddha ratna hindoliknvitam (5) prvgneya dior madhye priyakuena sagatam; tatrordhve stambhaklambi citra setu samanvitam (6) Rdhkua is beautifully surrounded by jewelled steps and jewelled bathing places. On these bathing places are jewelled platforms with their yards, with a jewelled dais on each side of each bathing platform. On each side of these platforms are two trees on whose flower laden branches wonderful swings covered with various sheets are hanging. On the southern side of each platform a jewelled swing hangs on the branches of two Campaka-trees, on the eastern side from two Kadamba-trees on the north from two mangotrees and on the west from two Bakula-trees. Between the eastern and the south eastern side is a wonderful bridge on

Description of Rdhkua

pillars, and Rdhkua's and ymakua's waters are meeting under this. (2-6) gala hd udara nbhi roi jnru daghnai a udadhi vasukonair maalgai ca kaicit iiram anu samuai grmakle sutair vividha mai nibaddhair diku sopna yuktai (7) mai rucijala vcibhrnti tbhibht patita vihaga vndcchlablntarlai parijana yuta rdhkayor narma goh pramada kd upavenalpa ved suobhai (8) nicita pthu taln kuimai citravarai kusumita bahu vall lia kh bhujnm ghana dala phala pupa rei bhrnatn vitatibhir abhita saveita pdapnm (9) Many trees are surrounding r Rdhkua on all sides. Those trees and vines are bowing down from the weight of their thick leaves and their many fruits and flowers. Around the bases of these trees are big platforms and jewelled alters as beautiful as water-basins. These platforms have staircases who keep one cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Some of these platforms reach up to the neck, some to the chest, some to the belly, navel, knees and some up to the heels only. Some of them are hexagonal, some heptagonal, some octagonal, and some are round. At first sight they resemble waves. The birds, mistaking their jewelled ripples to be waves of water, fall on them when they want to quench their thirst on them. Here Rdh and Ka are always enjoying Their joking conversations along with Their friends. catukoeu vsant catulbhir vtam; vnra kearoka nikujai parito vtam (10)
113

r Govinda Llmta

tad bahir paktrimpakka phala pupotkarkarai; parita kadalaair maita talacchadai (11) tad bahir bhyopavanlia pupav vtam; sva madhya salildvyat sasetu ratna mandiram (12) nn pupaphaloccyi vanadevganvitai; sevopacra sasakta kujads atvtai (13) pupav phalrma madhysthair vndaycitai; sevopakaragra nikarair abhito vtam (14) On four sides of the bathing ghas there are buildings made of Mdhav-vines surrounded by groves of Vnra-, Keara- and Aoka-trees. The outskirts of these yards are adorned with banana-trees with ripe and unripe fruits and flowers whose leaves provide a cool shade. Beyond that are the outer sub-forests surrounded by flower gardens. In the middle of the kua is a jewelled temple connected with the shore by a bridge. Rdhkua has many forestgoddesses and hundreds of maidservants that fetch various kinds of fruits, flowers and other items suitable for Rdh and Ka's service. Within the flower gardens and sub forests are cottages that are filled with such items by Vnddev. (10-14) turjdi sarvartu gua sevita knanam; vnd sama gandhmbha sasiktdhgalayam (15) tay toraakollaca pataklamba gucchakai; paupai citrita kujdhva dol catvara maapam (16) nava kamala dall pallavvntann kusuma racita ayyocchra candropadhnai samadhu caaka tmblmbu ptrdi yuktai subalita tala llgra kuja prapacam (17)

114

Description of Rdhkua

Then there are the seasonal forests, like the spring forest, that are endowed with all good qualities. Here the paths, yards and cottages are sprinkled with fragrant water by Vnd-dev. There are flower-canopies and gates as well as kuja-alleys, courtyards, swings and platforms, all decorated with flowers. Within the play-cottages of Rdhkua there are beds made of fresh lotus petals, leaves from the trees and flower-petals, along with pillows, goblets full of honey wine, water, betel leaves and other sweet things. (15-17) kahlra raktotpala puarka pakeruhendvara kairavm karan marandaica patat pargai suvsitmbha prasara samantt hasa srasa dtyha madgu kokdi patrim; vara lakmadn kalkpai ruti priyam (19) r uknm anyonya pthag saga ragim; ka llrasollsi kvylpa manoharam (20) jalada bhrntikt ka kntija praayonmadai; nadan ntyacchikhi vrtair vyptrma tajiram (21) hrta prvata ctakdika praha nn vidha citra pakim; kekananda viphulla varma karmta dhvna manoja knanam (22) rkerbuda nirmachya rdhesyendu pyibhi; cakorair nyakkta tyakta candrair vta nabhasthalam (23) Honey oozes out of the Kahlra-, red lotus-, white Puarka-, Pakeruha-, blue Indvara- and Kairava- flowers. The water that is scented with their pollen streams out of the drains from all sides. Swans, gallinules, cranes, Madgus, Cakravkas, geese and Lakman-birds since pleasant songs and parrots start reciting sweet poetry about Ka's romantic plays as they play with each other. When the
115

r Govinda Llmta

peacocks see Ka coming they become mad with love, mistaking Him for a cloud, and start dancing. Seeing Ka, the Hrtas, pigeons, Cakas and other birds in the beautiful forest start singing songs that are nectar to the ears, their bodies blooming up from joy. Drinking the nectar of Ka's (rdhea's) face, that defeats the splendor of innumerable full moons (rkea), the Cakora-birds give up their natural attraction for the moon in the sky. vipakka jlakpakka phalai kusuma pallavaih; mukulair majarbhica namrair valldrumair vtam (24) aneka padmkara madhya sasthita harer vilsnvita tra nrakam nnbja kntyucchalita nirantara guair jita kra samudram adbhutam (25) sva sadk tra nrea ka pdbja janman; nija prvopavienriakuena sagatam (26) tre kuj yasya bhntyaa diku prehln sva sva nmn prasiddh tbhi premn svya hastena yatnt kr tuyai prehayo saskt ye (27) The trees, that bow down with their loads of ripe and unripe fruits, sprouts, flowers, buds and vines, cover everyone with their shady foliage and many lotus flowers shine brightly. This Rdhkua, whose shores and waters facilitate Hari's play, defeats the beauty of the Milk Ocean with its wonderful qualities. Her waters and shores have sprung from Ka's lotus feet and are meeting with Ariakua (ymakua) in the south-east. In the eight directions are the eight kujas of Rdh's eight girlfriends, named after each of them. With love these girls diligently decorate their kujas with their own hands to perfect the pastimes of the two Lovers.
116

Description of Rdhkua

tat tat kh prnta vicchinna smrmodynveannvit ca tattat smbhyantarotpanna vka re yugmcchanna vartmli yukt (28) upari tanu taragkra citrci uddha sphaikamai citnya sphra vartmni tni marakatamai vndair citbhyantari pratanu lahari kuly bhrntim utpdayanti (29) maicaya racanbhi sveu bhittibhrama drk svanikaa maibhittau ctmabuddhi dadadbhi upavana yugamadhye dvra vndair yutni praviad itara loke darand eva bhnti (30) All the gardens extending outwards from these kujas are nicely set up, and the row of trees within that area shade the pathways on both sides. The center of this wonderfully pure crystal pathway is made of emeralds. Looking at it, one takes it to be wonderful small ripples, imaginary tiny streams in a river. To outsiders the jewelled gates that separate those two sub forests appear like walls and the walls look like gates. cakstyudcy dii trtha sannidhv anaga ragmbuja nma catvaram padmbha kujadalair virjita suhema rambhvali kearnvitam (31) sahasra patrmbuja sannibha sphurat suvara sat kuima maju karikam llnuklyocita santatollasad vistrat lghavam unnata prabham (32) lalit iyay nitya kalvaty susasktam; sarvartu sukha sampanna nn keli raskaram (33) lalitnandada rdhkayo savayasyayo;
117

r Govinda Llmta

nikuja rjayo paa mandira sphurad indiram (34) (Lalit's kuja:) Near the northern gha (bathing place) of Rdhkua there are eight kujas shaped like eight-petaled lotus flowers. There is a temple there called Ananga Ragmbuja (the lotus of erotic play), whose filaments are made of nice golden banana trees. The whorl of this thousand-petaled lotus is a brightly shining, beautiful golden platform which sometimes expands and sometimes shrinks, whenever it suits Ka's plays. The joy of all the seasons can be experienced in this place which is always carefully maintained by Lalit's disciple Kalval and which is the very form of playful pleasure. The goddess of beauty, Indir, is manifest in this royal temple of Rdh and Ka and Their friends, named Lalitnandada kuja. (31-34) mikya keara re veita svara karikam; bahir bahi kramd rdhva mna sakhy pramakai (35) ekaika vara sad ratna kadambencitai pthak; racita bahubhi cru samapatrli maalai (36) pacendriyhldakarai aitynyabja guair yutam; tadbahi kramaa svarair vaidryair indranlakai (37) sphaikai padmargai ca citair maapa pacakai; obhita maalevantar nnratna vinirmitau (38) kevalair mithunbhva sagatair mga pakibhi; devair nbhir yuta cnyai citritai rasadpanai (39) This kuja resembles a lotus flower with jewelled filaments and golden trowels divided in many equal jewelled leaves, each in their own colour. Outside of these trowels are the filaments and outside of that, at the tips of the petals, their weight and number gradually increase. Outside of this trowel that gives joy to all the five senses through its
118

Description of Rdhkua

attributes like coolness, are platforms, made - from inside to outside - of gold, lapis lazuli, sapphire, crystal, rubies respectively, that complete its beauty. In the middle of this platform are wonderful jewelled images depicting mating deer, birds, demigods and humans, arousing erotic feelings. (35-39) paca vara bhri citra patra pupa visphurat keardi akhi khiklisad vitnakam antarasya bhti jnu daghna ratna kuimgra madhya karik sahasra patra srasam (40) mla pupitoka vall maala sacayai; sitrua harit pta yma pupai prakalpitai (41) padma pupadalkrair upakujakair vtam; prava tdoka taru kuja varakam (42) vasanta sukhada yasya bhga kokila nditam; vyavy dii bhtyata dala kujmbuja dalam (43) There are Keara and other trees having five colors of leaves, flowers and branches that form canopies that beautify the center of this thousand-petaled lotus and the jewelled platforms that reach up to the knees are its trowel. The eight sub-kujas, that resemble lotus petals, are beautified by Aoka-vines that are strewn from top to bottom by white, red, green, yellow and blue flowers. There is another kuja shaped like an eight petaled lotus flower, full of humming bees and singing cuckoos in the north-west of Lalit's kuja, in a place called Vasanta sukhada (giver of joy to the spring). (40-43) r padmamandira nma nairtya rjate dalam; caturdvra catuprve btyana samanvitam (44) nn maicitneka citrabhitti catuayam; anta saka gopn prvargdi ceitai (45)
119

r Govinda Llmta

rsa kujavilsai ca lalit citritair yutam; ptanria sahrdyanta taccaritair bahi (46) ratnli dyuti kijalka sad garbhgra karikam; bahir abjadalkrair vta oaa kohakai (47) tat tad yugntarlastha dvyaopakohakair api; rdhve tdk sannivea sphurad aliknvitam (48) antaranta kramd ucca nirbhitti stambha paktiu; sphiku suvinyasta prabla balabhkule (49) chditena mahratna paalais tiryag rdhvagai; bhrjitena sukumbhena ikharea virjitam (50) atyuccena vanloka sukhadena nijeayo; mukta prva ttyocca khaena ca sumaitam (51) adho ratncitneka citra citrea bhsvat; upakuima yugmntar diku sopna obhin (52) kaha daghnti vistra kuimenbhito vtam; paritas tvad uccn prntotpanna mahruham (53) phalai pupaica salia kuima prntadeakam; keli ratnkara rdh kayo savayasyayo (54) In the south-western corner of Lalit's kuja is a lotus-temple that is beautified by gates and windows on all four sides. On the four jewelled walls of this temple Lalit keeps many wonderful pictures of Ka's pastimes, like the beginnings of His love (prva rga), His Rsa-dance, His kuja-pastimes and the killings of Ptan and Arisura. The whorl of this lotus temple is made of shining jewels and the interior is its trowel. On the outside it is surrounded by sixteen inner quarters shaped like the petals of this lotus. Within these sixteen quarters there are sixteen sub-quarters, above which are nice balconies. One above another, there are coral balconies on top of crystal pillars with no walls inbetween. Above that are jewelled spires with jugs on their peaks that provide shelter from the rain. From this very high turret on the third floor Rdh and Ka happily behold the
120

Description of Rdhkua

beauty of the forest. The sides of this open balcony are nicely decorated. Below that are many sub-platforms shining with so many jewel-studded pictures. Inbetween those platforms are staircases leading to higher platforms that reach up to the neck if one stands on the platform below. On the four sides of these staircases are again other platforms that reach up to the neck. Around these platforms are rows of trees with fruits and flowers. This place is an ocean of playful sports for Rdh and Ka and Their friends. gneya bhti padmbha ratna hindola kuimam; prvpara dig utpanna prava bakulgayo (55) sci kicid vinirgatya gaty vakrordhvayopari; militbhy sukhbhy chdita maapkti (56) tacchk mla sanaddhai paarajju catuayai; dhair baddha catukoa nbhimtrocca sasthiti (57) padmargapabhi prablaja padakai; ghaita hasta mtrocca paveana kearam (58) dvyaapatrmbujkra ratnli citra karikam; dvi dvi pdnvitmbhoja dalbhadalair vtam (59) ratna pa kearntar dvraka susayutam; dakie dala prvasthroha dvra dvaynvitam (60) laghu stambha dvaysakta pai phvalambakam; paatul lasanmadhya prva phopadhnakam (61) nn citrukai channa svara strmbarair api; lasac candrval mukt dma guccha vitnakam (62) yatradalagln madhyagau rdhikcyutau; gyad anyavayasybhir vnd dolayatvarau (63) svrha rdhcyutayo sarvbhimukhatkaram; hindolmbujam bhti madanndolanbhidham (64) In the south-east corner of Lalit's kuja is a jewelled lotus-shaped swing-platform. The branches of two prominent Bakula-trees, one on the west and one on the
121

r Govinda Llmta

east, meet there, bending over upwards, covering these swings like a canopy. At the foot of this tree hangs a swing from its branches, bound in four corners with silken ropes hanging at navel's height. There are eight ruby seats on this swing with eight coral lotuses, each the size of only a hand, surrounding the whorl-like seat of the swing. The trowel of this lotus-seat is a sixteen-petalled lotus beautified with jewels, and there are two lotuspetal-shaped footrests on each of the eight sides of the seat. There are eight gates (one on each side) on the swing. There are small rungs on the seat to support Rdh and Ka's backs and silken pillows behind and beside Them. A nice canopy covered with clusters of leaves and strings of pearls like rows of moons as well as various wonderful clothes sown with golden threads hung over Their heads. A little below the eight-petaled lotus Vnd-dev is swinging Rdhik, Acyuta and Their eight girlfriends, with some other singing gops. When Rdh and Acyuta climb on the lotus-swing named Madanndolana (Cupid's sway) it look as if They face everyone. (55-64) ainy bhtyaapatra mdhav kuja srasam; mdhavnandada nma nn llopahrayuk (65) phulla mallbhir lia namra kh bhuja vrajai; chdita phulla punngai candraknti citntaram (66) padma patrkra kujair veita svara karikam; udcy mai kijalka bhti kuja sitmbujam (67) In the north-east corner of Lalitnandada-kuja is the kuja of Mdhav-flowers named Mdhavnandada kuja, which is shaped like an eight-petalled lotus, which looks as sweet as a crane bird and is filled with many presents for Rdh and Ka's play. On the north of Lalita's kuja is the Sitmbuja kuja (white lotus grove) which is full of blooming Nga-kesara flowers and Punnga-trees with
122

Description of Rdhkua

their branches bowing down like arms embraced by many blooming jasmine-flowers. The whorl of this lotus is made of gold studded with moonstones, and its filaments are made of jewels. This kuja is surrounded by similar lotus-shaped kujas. namra kh bhujlia phulla hemalatcayai; tamlai kalpita jiu nla ratnval citam (68) nla padmadalkrair upakujakair vtam; suvara karika prcy bhti kuj sitmbujam (69) There is another kuja shaped like a blue lotus, beautifying the eastern wing of Lalit's kuja. This kuja is filled with Tamla-trees whose overhanging arm-like twigs embrace blooming golden vines. This kuja, which is decorated with blue gems, is known as Asitmbuja kuja (blue lotus-grove) and is surrounded by eight subgroves that are similarly shaped like blue lotus flowers, with golden whorls. avcy padmargdi citntar bhya maalam; labagaichdita phullair bhti kujrumbujam (70) kuja hemmbuja bhti pratcy phulla campakai; vallbhichdita hema cita bhyntarlakam (71) In the south is Arumbuja kuja (red lotus-grove) which is studded inside out with rubies and which is covered by blossoming red clove-vines. (70) In the west is Hemmbuja kuja (golden lotus-grove) which is covered over by golden Campaka-vines and is studded with gold inside out. (71) evam uttar dik kuj bhnti rdh haripriy; nn varkra bhedt d vismayakria (72)

123

r Govinda Llmta

In this way, Lalit's kuja on the northern bank of Rdhkua is astonishing Rdh and Hari's eyes with its different beautiful colors and shapes. (72) prati vidiam udacac campakn ca trm arua harita pta yma pupoccynm vara parimala dhrkipta gandhntar prati diam adhirohan mdhav veitnm (73) vyati sumilita tirya nirgatai kaicid anyair upari ghaita sagai snigdha kh samhai uka pika madhupn nla ptrun madhura ninada ramyai chdita saudha tulya (74) In the famous Madannandada kuja, or Vikhnandada kuja, Vikh's grove, situated in the north-east corner of r Rdhkua, there are Campakatrees in all four directions. These trees have very fragrant red, green, yellow and blue flowers, that obstruct other smells from entering. There are also sweetly singing blue, yellow and green parrots, Pika-cuckoos and bees. The whole scene is shaded by Mdhav-vines with bent down Campakabranches, making the kuja look like a palace. (73-74) sthala jalajani pupai pallavai kpta nnbharaa vasana ayysad vitndi pra arua viada pta yma padmotpaldyair dii vidii sanlai kalpitneka citra (75) jahara ara alkai pallavai citra pupair ghaita mdu kab prvta dv catuka mada kala cala bhg'nkin dvraplo maicaya cita bhmi dvyaa patrbja madhya (76) On all sides are beautiful, wonderful land lotuses, water flowers, leaves, ornaments, clothes, beds, canopies and
124

Description of Rdhkua

red, yellow and blue lotus flowers with matching stems and other kinds of flowers. On all four sides of this kuja are small gates made of stakes with different flowers and leaves strung on them. Intoxicated bumblebees are buzzing around these flowers, as gatekeepers of the kuja. In the centre of the kuja is a jewel-studded sixteen petaled lotus. bahirapi tata khcchditbhi samantccata sbhir abhitbhi veito dehalbhi aniam iha vikh iyay majumukhy racana nipuamaty saskto'dhyakaysya (77) iva hariti taastho'pyea rdh bakrer viharaa rasa vanyplvittm samantt madana sukhada nm locannanda dhm vilasati sa vikhnandada kuja rja (78) In Madana Sukhada-kuja, or Vikhnandada-kuja, which is the abode of bliss for the eyes, r Vikh dev resides. It is the king of kujas, where Vikh's disciple Majumukh, who is expert in drawing pictures, and who is in charge of the kuja, which is surrounded by four very nice platforms shaded all around by wide branches, is always engaged in devotional service. Even though this kuja lies on the shore of Rdhkua, that is the very form of prema, it is inundated by the flood of Rdh and Ka's enjoyments. vicitra vkavallbhi citra ratnaicitntara; citravarai khagair bhgai kuimai prgaair vta (79) citra maapa sayukta citra hindoliknvita; prcy citrnandadkhya citrakujo virjate (80)

125

r Govinda Llmta

On the eastern shore of Rdhkua is Citr's wonderful kuja, named Citrnandada, where the trees, vines, jewels, birds, bees, platforms, courtyards, pavillions and swings are all multicoloured. (Citr means variegated or wonderful, and all items in her kuja have these qualities). sphaikair indukntaica cita kuima catvara; citrita puarkaica kairavair mallikdibhi (81) ubhra pupadalair vkair vallbhica samanvita; ubhrli pika krdyai abdajeyair nindita (82) ubhra veau tu rky rdhkau sahlibhi; krantvapi nekyete kaicid yatrgatair api (83) prendu nm kujo'yam indulekh sukhaprada; suubhrakelitalpdir gneyy dii rjate (84) In the south-eastern corner of Rdhkua lies Indulekh's kuja, named Prendu (full moon), or Indulekh Sukhaprada (giving joy to Indulekh) where there are white playbeds, where the platforms and pavilions are made of crystal and moonstone, where there are white Puarka-lotuses, Kairavas, jasmines, vines and trees with white leaves and flowers. The white bees, Pika-birds and parrots are only distinguishable by their sounds. If someone comes here accidentally while Rdh and Ka are playing here with Their girlfriends on a full moon night, nobody will notice Them in the white light, as They wear white clothes then. hema vall vtair hema pupakaichdito'bhita; hema padmval citro hemaprgaa kuimah (85) hema maapikyukto hema hindoliknvita; hembhli khagair yukto hema ll paricchada (86) llay ptavasan ptlepa vibha; yatra pravi r rdh kenpi na lakyate (87)
126

Description of Rdhkua

gaurg vea dhk ka svapreyasy sahlibhi; oti prema salpa yatraitbhir alakita (88) kadcit padmay yatra prerit jailgat; dadara ka no rdh tenaiksanagm api (89) sva varakt svasthitn bhti kcana bhr iva; dakie campakalatnandado hema kujaka (90) yatra campakavally s nikuja pkalik; ste tad ayo citra jagdhi vedikaynvit (91) yasy pka kriycry savnd s nijeayo; sampdayati samodt kadcit kujabhojanam (92) In the south of Rdhkua is the golden kuja of Campakalat, named Campakalatnandada kuja, where everything becomes golden because of the radiant golden ground here. The kuja is completely covered by golden vines and trees. The lotus flowers, vines, flowers, trees, pavillions, swings, bees and birds on the golden yards and platforms are all golden, as are the dresses worn there during Rdh and Ka's pastimes. Whenever r Rdhik comes there, anointed and ornamented in yellow, and wearing a yellow dress, even Ka cannot recognise Her (because of Her natural golden lustre). And when Ka wears yellow clothes He can hear the sweet words Rdh and Her girlfriends speak about Him without being noticed by them. And whenever Rdhik's rival Padm sends Jail there to look for Her, then Jail will only see Ka, although Rdh may be sitting next to Him on the throne. In this golden grove is r Campakalat's famous kitchen with Rdh and Ka's dining-platform. Sometimes Campakalat joyfully feeds r-r Rdh and Ka there along with the teacher of cooking, Vnd dev. (85-92) tamlai ymavallbhi lia khair dhtntaram; indranlacitbhyantar bhmikuima catvara (93)
127

r Govinda Llmta

rdhay yugalbhva gato'pi mukhardibhi; nekyate harir ekaiva rdhik yatra dyate (94) rjate dii nairty ragadev sukhaprada; sarva yma ymakujo rdhik rati vardhana (95) In the south-western corner of Rdhkua is Rangadev's black grove named Ragadev sukhaprada. This grove, which increases Rdhik's attraction because of its blackish colour, that reminds Her of Ka, is full of Tamlatrees that are entwined by blackish vines and branches. Its interior, the ground, platforms and pavilions are studded with sapphires. Even when Mukhar and other elders may come, they cannot see Rdh and Hari together. They only see Rdh, for Hari has merged with the blackish interior. (93-95) rakta vallvto rakta pupapatrair drumair vta; oa ratnacitbhyanta kuimgana maapa (96) rakta hindolik yukta kea sarva lohita; tugavidynandado'sti pacime'rua kujaka (97) In the west of Rdhkua is Tungavidy's crimson grove named Tugavidynandada, which is coveted by Ka. Here the vines, flowers, leaves, trees, swings and yards are all red and the platforms, yards and pavilions are paved with red stones (rubies). hari vall vka citro harit pakyali sayuta; harinmai citbhyantar bhya kuima catvara (98) vyavy sarva harito rdhkka keli bh; sudev sukhadbhikhyo harit kujo virjate (99) In the north-west corner of Rdhkua is the green grove of Sudev, named Sudev sukhada. Everything in this
128

Description of Rdhkua

playground of Rdh and Ka, that is, the vines, trees and birds, is green, and the platforms and pavilions are studded with green emeralds. Here Rdh and Ka play dice. upari lahari tulykra citrai sphuradbhir marakatacaya garbhai pupargendu kntai ghaitam itara loke toyavad bhsamna maimaya kumudmbhojli hasdi yuktam (100) dhanapati dii tdk setubandhnuakta a adhika daa patrmbhojavat sanniveam salila kamala sadmnaga yu majar am pradam atula sulvayollasal llasti (101) In the north of Rdhkua is the kuja of r Rdh's younger sister Anaga Majar, known as 'Salila Kamala'. It appears to outsiders as radiant as water. It is shaped like a sixteen-petaled lotus and is connected to the shore (being actually situated within the water) by a bridge. This kuja is studded with emeralds, rubies and moonstones as well as jewelled lilies, lotuses and swans. Seeing this kuja, which gives matchless bliss to Ka with its fine, natural beauty, it seems as if a garland of waves manifests above it. (100-101) r rdheva hares tadya saras prehdbhutai svair guair yasy r yuta mdhavendur ania premn tay krati premsmin bata rdhikeva labhate yasmin sakt snnakt tat tasy mahim tath madhurim kenstu varya kitau (102) Through its great qualities, Rdh's lake is as dear to r Hari as r Rdh Herself. Here the beautiful, moonlike Mdhava always lovingly plays with Her. Simply by bathing
129

r Govinda Llmta

here once, one attains a love for Ka like Rdhik's. Who on earth can describe the glories and sweetness of r Rdhkua? (102) priykua dv mudita hdayo'pyasya vividhair guais tais tair uddpita virahabhva smaravaa priy prptyutkah kabalita man ngaragurur bhramnnotprek bakaripur amumin sa vidadhe (103) Seeing His beloved's lake, Ka, the teacher of all lovers, became happy at heart, since it reminded Him of Her with all its different qualities. He became overwhelmed by erotic feelings of separation from His beloved Priyj and eagerness to find Her. He became deluded into seeing Her in the different characteristics of Her lake. (103) khelac cakrayugoroja phea muktsrag ujjvalam; rasormyuccalita mene priya vaka sama sara (104) The playing Cakravka-birds on the water reminded Him of Priyj's breasts, the foam on the water of Her pearl necklace, and the water's waves of Her mood. All these items reminded Him of Her chest. (104) madhura rasa tarag vibhrati pakajsya bhramaraka parivta prollasat khajankam pramudita harioccair hasak rva ramy priyatama saras s preyasva vyaloki (105) sva prehria kuormi cacat bhpaghit; sva kokanada pibhy kipta taccalatat kar (106) samra cacad ambhoja calsyena bald iva; cumbitli kakeat tiryag ambuja sanmukh (107) bhg jhakra tkra vikala svara gadgad; prodyat kuamit tena rdhikeva vyaloki s (108)
130

Description of Rdhkua

This dearmost lake reminded Hari of His dearmost beloved. The sweet waves of water are like the waves of Her sweet love, the lotus flowers in the water Her lotus-face, the bees surrounding those lotuses Her curly locks surrounding Her lotus-face, the restless wagtail birds of Her restless eyes and the loud and sweet warbling of the swans Her jingling anklebells. The red lotus flowers that stop the intruding waves of ymakua's water reminded Ka of Rdhik's red lotus-like hands that try to stop Him from embracing Her with His arms, and the lotus flowers, moved by the wind from ymakua, that are falling over the lotuses in Rdhkua, that are adorned with bumblebees, remind Him of Her crooked looks during His efforts to forcibly kiss Her lotus-like face. The buzzing of the bees reminded Ka of Rdhik's faltering screams when She pretends to be angry with Him. samudbhrmyal llmbujam anila jtormi balita saro yugma vkynata irasi govardhana gire nija premodghr skhalita vapuas tasya sa harir bhramattra vpocchalitam iva mene'kiyugalam Seeing these two lakes with their trembling playlotuses and their waves moved by the wind, Hari thought they were the two tear-filled eyes in the lowered head of Govardhana Hill, whose body is like that of a peacock shivering out of love for Him. (109) ittha priyy sa sara samkya tat pratyaga sasmrakam tmano guai vidas tad nandam amandam apyabht tad gamautsukya vibhinna dhairyaka (110)

131

r Govinda Llmta

When He saw His beloved's lake like this, each one of its limbs reminding Him of Her by its qualities, Ka felt great bliss, yet He became restless, anticipating Her arrival. pryena evam vidha sanniveaka dadara tat prvagam tmana sara kujai svakntgrahato'ti sasktair virjita narmasakhli nirmitai (111) priya narma vayasy ye subalo madhumagala; ujjvalrjuna gandharv vidagdha bhga kokil (112) daka sannandandyca te sva svbhidhnvit; tair vibhajyrpit kujs te rdh lalitdiu (113) Seeing His own lake ymakua, where His dearest cowherdboy friends had all nicely prepared their own kujas, Ka considered it to be just as dear to Him as Rdhkua. This lake, ymakua, was also divided into kujas by Ka's friends Subala, Madhumangala, Ujjvala, Arjuna, Gandharva, Vidagdha, Bhga, Kokila, Daka and Sannanda, who had submitted their kujas to one particular gop, like Rdh, Lalit, etc. (111-113) vayor diysti subalnandad kuja lik; rdhaygkt yasys trtha mnasa pvanam (114) nitya sntyatra slbhi kue'smin vipulgrah; kapdbja mdhvka pnye kavat priye (115) On the north-west bank is Subala's kuja named Subalnandada. This kuja was accepted by Rdh and its bathing platform is known as Mnasa Pvana Gha. r Rdh always very eagerly bathes there with Her girlfriends, for this water consists of honey flowing from Ka's lotus feet. Therefore this water is as dear to Her as Ka Himself.
132

Description of Rdhkua

lalitgktodcy kujalti citrit; madhumagalaandkhy bhti r rdhik priy (116) vikhgktainym ujjvalnandadpar; evam anysu dikvany bhntyanybhi ktray (117) In the north is Madhumagala's kuja, known as Madhumagala-anda (giving joy to Madhumangala). This very amazing kuja is accepted by Lalit and is very dear to r Rdhik. In the north-western corner is Ujjvala's kuja known as Ujjvalnandada, which is accepted by Vikhsakh. In this way the kujas of all of Ka's best friends are situated around ymakua. (116-117) prva pacimadi mrgve kuayo kramt; vistrau n pans ta snna pnrtha trthagau (118) There are two paths, one east of ymakua and one west of Rdhkua, where humans and animals can drink and bathe. llnukleu janeu cittetpanna bhveu ca sdhaknm evam vidha sarvam ida caksti svarpata prktavat pareu All this can be seen in its real form (svarpa) by those who are favourable to these pastimes and by practising devotees, but others see it as just a material place. (119) atha vndgata vkynandit nandanandanam; karikrvatasau dvvabhyetyopajahra s (120) vnd tat tan nija nipuat saskta darayant tat tat kujdikm anutaa sevar smrayant rdhknta kakubhi sahajair bhrjamna guai svai kueny madanasukhadbhikhya kuja ninya (121)
133

r Govinda Llmta

sa tad dti ho'bht tattat sthneu rdhay; kta kartavya lln smrti sakalpa tatpara (122) vikhay majumukhy vnday ca sumaitam; kuja vilokya ta prtas tmhotkalikkula (123) diy vnde yadi tava sakh sgat syd akasmn nipratyha yadi mama tay syu ca te te vils kuraya madhu sumadhura kujageha tadsmin vaicitr ca tvad uparacit kalpate sat phalya (124) saketa kujam agata tulas sakc chaibynvita ca pathi m nu niamya rdh naiyatyasau tata ita kila kpi gatv tm nayed iha nivedya mama pravttam (125) When Vnd saw the son of Nanda (Ka) coming, she became very happy and gave Him two flower buds to decorate His ears. She took Rdh's lover to Madana Sukhada kuja in the north-west of Rdhkua, showing Him the beauty of all the kujas on the shore, and reminded Him of her mistress r Rdh, showing Him her expertise in decorating. Seeing this, Ka became very happy and, remembering all the pastimes He had there with Rdh, He desired to have them again. Ka became very enthusiastic when He saw the kujas so nicely decorated by Vikh, Majumukh and Vnd, and with love He said: "O Vnde! If I can be so fortunate that I can promptly meet your friend Rdh and if I can sport with Her without disturbance, then the wonderful decoration of the lake's forest and the kujacottages, sweetened by the presence of spring, will be useful! Rdh may not come after hearing from Tulas that I met aiby this morning, but someone should see Her and tell Her that I actually cheated aiby and that I'm waiting for Her here." r rdhy savidha ubhay mdhavym avasth
134

Description of Rdhkua

asantyuccair madana viam llasoddpan ca kurvai praayavikal vykul tayddh tm netu tvaraya lalit mad gir tva dhanihe (126) sthpayaik sakh vnde godig adhvanyasau yath; mm anveu sakh kacid gacchetta pratrayet (127) gaurtrthdhvani par dak sthpaya s yath; punar yti aiby ced any v tca vacayet (128) O Dhanihe! Tell Lalit to quickly bring Rdh here! Make Her eager and anxious to come here, telling Her of Mdhava's (Ka's, or the spring's) condition! Say: "Ka is pierced by Cupid's arrows and is very eager to meet You." O Vnde! Keep one gop on the look-out down the road to the meadows! Who knows if some cowherd boy may come! If so, she must deceive that boy and keep him from entering here. Put another expert gop-girl on the road to Gaurtrtha, in case aiby comes back. She must also be deceived." pakka rambhphale magna dilola bau hari; vkyha vndm anayo phalais tva prayodaram (129) Seeing Madhumangala greedily staring at the ripe bananas, Hari told Vnd: "Fill up his belly with these fruits!" baur hnay ki me tvam jpaya m sakhe; dv dv yathvcha khdas tpymi lolupa (130) Madhumagala said: "O friend! Why are You ordering me? I will look around myself and satisfy my greed with whatever I find!" (130) tatra tatra prahitayo sakhyor nipuayos tay; ko'pyutkahito'tihat priydhva nihitekaa (131)
135

r Govinda Llmta

smita kamalamukh s yvad yti tvat jaladhi ata gabhro'pyasta dhairya sa mene kaam api yuga laka hanta yattan na citra praayini sahajeya premabhj hi ce (132) While Vnd placed two expert girls on the two paths, Ka eagerly looked down the road over which He expected Rdh to come. As long as smiling, lotus-faced Rdhik did not come, Ka, who is normally as grave as hundreds of oceans, was impatient and considered one moment to last longer than a hundred thousand ages. That is not so astonishing, for this is the natural attachment of the lover for the beloved. (131-132) r caitanya padravinda madhupa r rpa sevphale die r raghuntha dsa ktin r jva sagodgate kvye r raghuntha bhaa viraje govinda llmte sarga saptama ea suhu niragt prvhna llmaya In the great poem Govinda Llmta, which is the result of service to r Rpa Gosvm, who is a bee at r Caitanya's lotus feet, the encouragement of r Raghuntha Dsa Gosvm, the association of r Jva Gosvm and the blessing of r Raghuntha Bhaa Gosvm, this was the seventh chapter, that nicely describes Ka's forenoonpastimes. THUS ENDS THE PURVHNA LL

136