Narada Muni’s Visit to Dvaraka
Introduction
The great sage Narada heard that Lord Krsna had married sixteen thousand wives after He had killed the demon Narakasura, also known as Bhaumasura. Astonished that Lord Krsna had expanded Himself into sixteen thousand forms and married these wives simultaneously in different palaces, Narada desired to see these pastimes and set out to visit Krsna’s different homes in Dvaraka.
Narada’s Arrival in Dvaraka
When Narada arrived in Dvaraka, he saw gardens and parks full of flowers of different colors and orchards overloaded with a variety of fruits. The city was filled with beautiful birds, peacocks, and serene ponds with lotus flowers and lilies. The highways, lanes, streets, and marketplaces were all beautifully decorated, making Dvaraka a glowing city. The residential homes, assembly houses, and temples exhibited architectural beauty, with clean paths shaded by trees.
Lord Krsna’s Residences
In this beautiful city, Lord Krsna had many residential quarters, designed by Visvakarma, the engineer of the demigods. These residences numbered more than sixteen thousand, each housing a different queen. Narada entered one of these palaces and was awestruck by its grandeur, with coral pillars, jeweled ceilings, and furniture made of ivory, gold, and diamonds. The palace was filled with the fragrance of incense and the sight of beautifully adorned servants.
Encounter with Rukminidevi
Narada saw Lord Krsna sitting with Rukminidevi, who was personally fanning Him. Despite being the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krsna immediately honored Narada by standing up, bowing down, and touching Narada’s feet. Krsna, who possesses all brahminical qualities, washed Narada’s feet and took the water on His head, demonstrating respect for saintly persons.
Narada’s Request
Narada expressed his gratitude and requested that he may never forget Krsna’s lotus feet. This request exemplifies the ideal prayer of all pure devotees, who seek only to remember and serve the Lord under any condition.
Exploration of Krsna’s Palaces
Narada then visited other palaces, witnessing Krsna engaged in various activities, such as playing chess, performing rituals, chanting the Gayatri mantra, engaging in combat training, giving charity, and enjoying with His family. In each palace, Krsna displayed His supreme ability to manage multiple household affairs simultaneously, reflecting His divine nature.
Krsna’s Teachings
Krsna explained to Narada that His household activities were meant to teach people how to sanctify their lives. By following Krsna’s example, householders can lead a life that is both spiritually fulfilling and materially responsible.
Narada’s Realization
Narada was astonished by Krsna’s ability to simultaneously manage sixteen thousand households and was deeply impressed by the Lord’s demonstration of His internal energy. Narada praised Krsna and requested His blessings to travel and sing the glories of the Lord.
Conclusion
Sukadeva Gosvami, narrating this story to King Pariksit, emphasized that Lord Krsna’s pastimes in Dvaraka teach the principles of righteous living. By hearing and supporting the narrations of Krsna’s pastimes, one can traverse the path of liberation and engage in devotional service.
Lessons to Be Learned
- Respect for Saintly Persons: Lord Krsna’s behavior towards Narada demonstrates the importance of respecting and honoring saintly persons.
- Devotion Above All: True devotees seek only to remember and serve the Lord, regardless of their circumstances.
- Sanctifying Household Life: Krsna’s household activities teach that one can lead a life of material responsibilities while remaining spiritually focused.
- Multiplicity of Divine Forms: Krsna’s ability to expand into multiple forms and manage numerous households simultaneously reflects His divine nature.
- Ideal Prayer: The pure devotee’s prayer is to never forget the Lord’s lotus feet, emphasizing continuous devotion and remembrance of the divine.
Prayer
Dear Lord Krsna, grant us the wisdom to respect and honor saintly persons as You have shown. Help us to remember and serve Your lotus feet in all circumstances. Teach us to sanctify our household lives and responsibilities by following Your divine example. May we always remain devoted to You, finding fulfillment in Your service and remembrance.
