ShreeNathji Darshans – Nathdwara-2

 Eight Jhankis at ShreeNathji Nathdwara Haveli:  

(In continuation from ShreeNathji Darshans – 1)

During every darshan, there is the goonj of Jai jaikar in the hall: “GovardhanNath ki Jai, Krishn Kanhaiya Lal ki jai, Banke Bihari ki Jai, Sanvariya Seth ki Jai, Dwarkadhesh ki Jai, ShreeNathji Baba ki Jai, Shyam Sunder Yamune Maharani ki Jai, Mor Mukut Bansi Wale ki Jai, Vallabhadhesh ki Jai, Giriraj Dharan ki Jai, Bol Shree Radhe, Radha Rani ki Jai, Barsane Wali ki Jai, Aaj Ke Anand ki Jai Jai Ho Jai Ho Jai Ho…”

 

MANGALA – First Darshan of the day Sewa is performed with the bhao of Navneet Priyaji. His Sthan is above the Surbhi Kund, below Shyam Tamal, at Govardhan. It is thought that in Nandalaya (at Mathura), all His sakha and gopijan will come for the Darshans of Bal Krishn. Shri Parmanand das is the Kavi whose rachanas (poems) are sung in this darshan. Shreeji is woken with the sound of Shankhnaad. It is the time when Shreeji just wakes up and there are no elaborate ornaments on Him. This is the only darshan when the Pithikaji is visible, also one can have the darshan of Shreeji’s right hand. In fact this darshan is the only one, where Shreeji is visible totally. This darshan time depends on the season. And stays open for nearly 45 minutes. Aarti is done in this darshan. Aarti is done with saat vat batti (seven standing wicks) with seven full rounds and seven half rounds. Bhakts enjoy this darshan a lot, and the hall echoes with their jai jaikar: This darshan time depends on the season. During summer darshans open late. The bhao is that during summer Shreeji plays longer and so will sleep later; hence has to be woken up later; the shringar is also lighter. He is clad in a simple adbandha. His flute is not given; if Shreeji begins to play early all would be enchanted and none would be able to work. In winter He sleeps early, so will be awake earlier for the Mangala darshans. He is covered totally in a rajai (blanket) so that only the Mukharvind is visible. There is a sigri (coal fire) lit before Him to create the warmth. Milk and Mishri, butter, milk, thord seera are offered as bhog; according to the season. The ‘Seera’ is one of Shreeji’s most favorite dish – the Mangal bhog ‘Seera’. He loves it. – He told me once in Nathdwara when we were taking the Mangal bhog Prasad.

 

   SHRINGAR – Second Darshan Sewa is performed with the bhao of Shree GokulChandramaji. His Sthan is above Mansi Ganga, below the Peepal tree at Govardhan. Kirtans and bhajans of the poet kavi Shri Nand Das is sung now. Around an hour after Mangala, is the Shringar Darshan. Shreeji is dressed according to different seasons and festivals. His entire wardrobe of 365 days has been decided by Shri Gusainji nearly 500 years back and is followed till today. The clothes He adorns once are never worn again. Shreeji is offered a garland of fragrant flowers. His Bansuri is offered now with the two Chadis. The pink Kamal or any other seasonal flower are also are decorated on His waist. After His Shringar is complete, the Mukhiyaji shows Shreeji a gold ayaina (mirror) so that Shreeji can be satisfied He is well dressed. His Venu is also offered now to Him. The moment when Shreeji looks at Himself in the mirror is not to be missed, as it is 100% guaranteed that He is Present there. It is incredible. All I can do is look at this divya (divine) happening and feel lucky to have been given this opportunity to be present here. I get the bhao of Shreeji standing with both His hands on His waist, looking at me standing tall and erect as if saying, “Main accha dikhta hun na? Meri nayi vah-vah pahani hai, ab main khelne jata hun.” (Do I not look fine, I am the best dressed. I have worn my new “vah-vah” (clothes) and shall now go out to play). I just want to go hug Him and hold Him in my arms; tell Him – “Shreeji You are the best, I love You”. Bhog is offered of dry fruits and sweets.

GWAL – Third Darshan Sewa is performed with the bhao of Shree DwarkaNathji. His sthan is in The Kadamb Khedi, above the Erapat Kund at Govardhan. Kirtans and bhajans of poet kavi Shri Govind Swami is sung now. This Darshan is the time when Shreeji takes His Gaumata for grazing.. The Gaushala mukhiya comes to inform Shreeji that all His cows are doing well. In this Jhanki, Beedaji (triangle betel leaves) and Jhariji are also offered. Tulsi Dal is offered at His Feet. Dhoop Dhunni  is done for Shreeji so that no evil nazar harms Him. After this Aarti with dou vaat batti (two standing wicks) is performed now. Bhog is offered of rabdi, kheer, milk etc. This Darshan normally does not open during festivals and is done inside.

RAJBHOG – Fourth Darshan This is the fourth Darshan of the day. Sewa is performed with the bhao of ShreeNathji Himself. His Sthan is at Anyor below the neem tree of Saddu Pande, at Govardhan. Kirtans and bhajans of the kavi singer Shri Kumbhan Dasji are sung. This is the most bhavya darshan. Before this Darshans open, one hears the call of the sewak to fetch Shreeji’s Mala quickly. It is with the bhao of when Shreeji stayed in Govardhan; the pujari had to call out loudly for His Mala; as Shreeji’s garden was at a little distance. As a routine it is followed as a signal for the Darshans to open. This Darshan is open for a longer time than all the other Darshans. After the call for Shreeji’s Mala; Shivji is called for taking ShreeNathji’s Darshans. When ShreeNathji shifted to Nathdwara, Shivji also was pratishted in a mandir near the Banas River. At this Rajbhog Darshan, it is believed that sakshat Shivji is seated on the round semicircle before Shreeji, in the Dolti Bari doing ShreeNathji’s Darshans. That is why no one should step on this circle during these Darshans. In this Jhanki, Shreeji stands with His Kamal and two new Malas (garland). Two Beedaji (triangle betel leaves), Shreeji’s Ladoo Banta (Gold box containing sweet ladoos), Jhariji are also offered along with His Venu (flute), two Chadis and Kamal(flowers on His waist). Once Shreeji is ready, He is shown an Aaina (mirror). A Morchadi (Stick of peacock feathers) is swayed from one side. Aarti is performed in this Darshan. To protect Shreeji from evil nazar (evil eye), two coins are given away to sewaks. Once the Aarti is done, the curtain is drawn for a few seconds, when one Malaji is taken away. This darshan is open for a long period after this. After this Darshan, Shreeji’s Haveli is shut for the afternoon as it is His time for vishram (rest). Most sewaks also retire and rest, as they have been awake very early. Nearly three hours later the Shankhnaad (conch) is heard again. Bhog is offered of all types of food equivalent of an elaborate lunch. Shreeji’s food is always made extra sweet and no chillies used in the preparation. His jal (water) is always mixed with either rose, Chandan or some Kesar. He does not like plain water. Shreeji, when in the right mood at times talks to me about His food habits. About how He likes milk with kesar; this happens many times when we are having tea at Gurushree’s office mandir. Suddenly I hear Shreeji’s tiny sweet voice, “Tum log yeh kiya peete ho? I reply – Shreeji, yeh chai hoti hai “Chai hai? Main chai nahi peeta. Main to kesar wala dudh peeta hun,? Main jal bhi kesar wala hee peeta hun”. (What are you’ll drinking? I reply -Shreeji, this is called tea. “This is tea? I don’t drink tea. I drink only milk with kesar,  I drink water also with kesar).

 UTTHAPAN – Fifth Darshan Sewa is performed in the bhao of Shree Mathureshji. His Sthan is at Saghan Kandara Parasoli above Chandra Sarovar at Girirajji. Kirtans and bhajans of Shri Surdas are now sung. Nearly three hours later the Shankhnaad (conch) is heard again. This is the first of the four afternoon Darshans. Like Mangala, bhakts gather outside the gate, waiting for the door to open. Shreeji is woken with the sound of the Vina. It is often around between 3.30-4.15 pm. This Darshan is open for a short time. At times Shreeji looks sleepy in this Darshan. The entire Haveli seems very peaceful and calm at this time. Shreeji’s vastra becomes lighter now. There is no Beedaji, no Chadiji, no Bansuri, no Kamal in this darshan. Two Jhariji are offered now, with the bhao of Yamune Maharaniji. No Aarti is done now. Bhog is offered of Fruits and milk products.

 BHOG – Sixth Darshan Darshans are of the bhao of Gokulnathji. His Sthan is near Nava Kund, above Rudan Kund, below the Aavli tree at Govardhan. Kirtans and bhajans of Shri Chaturbhuj das are sung now. This Darshan opens around an hour after Utthapan. During summers small fragrant fountains are started for cooling and in winters a coal sigri is burnt at some distance from Thakurjee for providing heat. There is Flower Shringar or Flower Bangala in this Darshan. Bantaji is placed now, with Jhariji and two Beedaji. Shreeji adorns two fragrant flower Malaji. His Bansuri and Chadiji are offered now. A ‘Chadi Dar’ is present on the side who dresses in a gherdar, formal attire. He is Shreeji’s guard, who wears gold kadas and carries a gold or silver Chadi. His Paag, Kamarpatta, dupatta matches Shreeji’s Vastra for that particular day. A morchadi is waved around Shreeji. No Aarti is done in this darshan. Bhog is of mainly fruits, Thor and some light snacks.

 SANDHYA AARTI – Seventh Darshan Darshans are of the bhao of Shri Vitthalnathji. His Sthan is at Apsara Kund, below Shyam Tamal at Govardhan. Kirtans and bhajans of Shri Chitta Swami are now sung. This Darshan is immediately after the Bhog Darshan. Shreeji comes back home from Gocharan and play. Ma Yashoda does Aarti for Her son, is the bhao of this Darshan. The Shringar and Vastra become light, preparing for sleep. Bantaji, Jhariji, five Beedaji are offered. Shreeji wears two thick flower Malaji, Bansuri and Chadi are offered now. A morchadi is waved from one side. Aarti is performed now It marks the end of the day. Aarti is performed. One can observe how important it is to wear gold kadas on both hands when doing Shreeji’s Aarti. The Sudarshan Chakra is also offered Bhog. The Dhajaji is wrapped around and given rest for the night.

SHAYAN – Eight Darshan This is the eighth and last Darshan of the day. The Darshan bhao are of Shree Madanmohanji. His Sthan is at Shyam Tamal and below the Kadamb tree, above Bilchu Kund at Girirajji. Kirtans and bhajans of Shri Krishna Das are now sung. These Darshans are not always held at Nathdwara. From Dassera to Ram Navami, Shayan darshan is at Nathdwara; From Ram Navami to Dassera Shayan darshan is at Jatipura, Govardhan, Mathura. Darshans are opened only after the ‘rasoiya boli’; the sewak goes on the terrace of the Haveli to call out for Shreeji’s chief cook to come early the next morning, again being in the bhao of Govardhan hill. Drums are sounded for the Darshans to open. A bhajan in the form of a Lullaby is sung. The Vina is played and Shreeji offered His Venu (flute) for the night. His Gold bed is prepared in the right way. It is supposed that Shree Radha will join Him at night, so Her garments and Ornaments are also kept ready. Shreeji wears two Malaji, made from fragrant flowers. He is offered His Bansuri and Kamal (flowers on His waist). A matching flower is also placed on His raised left hand. No Chadi is offered now. Paan Beedaji, Jhariji is kept ready. Morchadiji is swayed from one side. A sewak is positioned just outside Shreeji’s main mandir with a mashal (fire) till the end of the darshans. Mukhiyaji offers Shreeji paan seven times. We can see one sewak cleaning the floor continuously, in the bhao of Shreeji eating paan. A carpet spread on the ground leads to Shreeji’s Bed Chamber. Bhog is offered for the night. Jal (water) is filled. Laddoos are kept paan (Betel) leaves, are kept. It is the last Darshan after which Shreeji is free till the next morning. The wooden platforms from the ‘Dolti Bari’ are removed. The doors of the ‘Sinh Pole’ are left open. It marks the end of that day and all will become still and silent till the next morning, till the Shankhnaad sound; signaling that Shreeji is now awake. It is a very quiet & silent feeling in the entire town once Shreeji retires for the night. All return to their homes to come back for sewa the next day. This cycle continues every day all through the years. ShreeNathji has been here giving us His Loving Darshans year after year without any holiday or change in His routine. We may have gone through various birth cycles, but Shreeji-Thakurjee without complaining or feeling tired stands there without fail; completing His Karma of giving Darshans.

For animated ShreeNathji Haveli darshans from Nathdwara; Application launched on: Magh Sud Dasam, Samvat 2068, Rohini Nakshatra, Vrushabh Rashi, The 2^nd February 2012, Thursday at 6.31pm

Please visit: http://www.shreenathjibhakti.org/app/

Jai Maha Gurushree, Shreeji!

ShreeNathji Darshans – Nathdwara – 1

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The Swarup of ShreeNathji as He Appeared at Govardhan,and now Living at Nathdwara,  is in the Form of a reddish black stone Murti, about four feet in height. His left hand is raised, just as He had appeared at Govardhan. His right hand rests on the waist with His palm formed in a fist. ShreeNathji Himself Lives here in His Haveli Mandir; so is worshipped in a very live manner. It is assumed that He is Present at all times in His Bal Swarup; Over Shreeji’s Nij Mandir there is a roof top with the Dhajaji flying, and His Sudarshan Chakra. Shreeji has many times told me jokingly, “Dekho main kitna gareeb hun, mere paas toh sirf ek jhopdi hai, baaki sab yeh log le jaate hain”(Look, I am so poor; I have just a hut to live in, rest all is taken away by them).

Similar to how we would look after a young child, His Sewa is done with the most pure of bhao and best of samagri. According to Shrimad Bahgvat, Shri Vallabhacharya had started the Ashtyaam sewa with the bhao of Nandalaya. Later his second son Shri Gusainji Vitthalnathji established the elaborate sewa of Bhog and Shringar which is followed till today, similar to nearly 500 years ago. The festivals and their way of celebrations is also not changed; the various type of clothes and ornaments that Shreeji wears are the same as started several 100 years ago by Shri Gusainji. All of ShreeNathji Bhog is prepared according to the various seasons and days. Every type of food is prepared for Shreeji and offered in His Nij Mandir. All the traditional foods; with every dry fruit, many very expensive herbs are also used depending on the seasons. Only black pepper and rock salt is used in the preparation of His food, as being a young child would not enjoy chilies. A lot of sugar is added in His sweet preparations. Like He mentions sometimes in fun,

“Main toh bahut meetha khata hun, phir bhi mujhe diabetes nahi hota, ha, ha, ha”.

(I eat a lot of sweets, yet I do not have diabetes, ha, ha, ha”).  

During the hot summer months He is offered water with chandan and rose; while in the winters kesar is added to His water. The way of cooking food for Shreeji follows the traditional manner. Bhog is the most elaborate and perfect with the most pure ingredients being used. No one is allowed to watch Shreeji when He takes His meals.

Shreeji explains,

“Main toh sirf soonghta hun, kabhi, kabhi laddoo aur beeda khol deta hun. Chappan bhog toh yeh log apne khane ke liye banate hain, ha ha ha. Jhariji mein se Jal kabhi pee leta hun.”

(I only inhale the offerings, at times I break open the Laddoo and Betel offerings. The Chappan Bhog offering is for them to eat only, ha, ha, ha. I do drink some water from my Jhariji, at times). Shreeji’s Shringar is the most artistic, and beautiful. It is alokik . All type of ornaments are there for Him; used according to the type of Shringar done on that particular day. The flowers are freshly grown, and bought every morning from various gardens, grown especially for His Sewa. There is a room for preparing Shreeji’s various Malas; where different fragrant flowers are used. Shringar can be done only by the Tilkayatji or the Mukhiyaji who has been appointed by them. None is allowed to watch Shreeji when He gets ready.

“Kabhi, Kabhi jab tayaar karte hain aur main dhyan nahin rakhta toh thoda sa hil jata hun, vastra, abhushan gir jaate hain. Kitne der khada rahun? Baar, baar tayaar karte hain, bolte hain attention mein khade raho Shreeji, bhakt log aaye hain. Main tou thak jata hun, main kiya karoo?”

(Sometimes, when they are getting me ready, and  I don’t concentrate, I shake a bit, then the clothes or jewellery fall off. How long can I stand? Over and over they want me to stand still when they make me ready for darshans, telling me to stand in attention as bhakts have come for darshans. I get tired, what to do!)

Shreeji  is Natkhat, so, though having stopped direct interactions; yet plays sometimes in His Mandir. There have been times when He refuses to accept certain ornaments or vastra. If He has pushed them away three times, it is assumed that Shreeji does not want this. A new pair of the same is always kept ready, which is then used for Shreeji. New Vastra are used daily for Shreeji. No clothes are repeated. There is a team of  tailors who continuously stitch Shreeji’s clothes in the Darji Khaana. Unlike all other Hindu mandirs, Shreeji’s Darshans are not open continuously for the day. As Shreeji Lives here in the ‘Live Form’ of a small child, all His Darshans are regulated accordingly. From morning, when He is woken, right through till the time of going to bed, there are eight Jhankis (Darshahs) which are open to bhakts. They are called-Mangala; Shringar; Guwal; Rajbhog; Utthapan; Bhog; Aarti; Shyan. All His Darshans are open only for a short while, the bhao being that He is a child, so will get tired of standing and may experience shram; so frequent Darshans are there for short durations. The bhao is of a young child who is woken up, offered snacks; bathed and dressed; ready for His play; offered an elaborate lunch; He must be tired so given rest in the afternoon; woken up for His afternoon snack; Aarti done; offered dinner; changed and asked to sleep. Each Darshan has a special bhao and meaning. (Have elaborated them later). Though each Darshan is important in Itself; ideal is to at least do all eight Darshans when in Nathdwara, for the maximum benefit of experiencing any closeness with Shreeji. The timings of each darshan are more or less fixed, they may vary at times by some 20-30 minutes, according to the seasons. The daily timings are declared outside the gate on a black board and also on an electronic board. At times two Darshans are combined. This happens when the crowd is extreme, on some important festivals. Darshans have to be kept open for a longer period so that all the innumerable bhakts get a glimpse of Thakurjee. Govardhan Parvat, Shreejis original Pragatya Sthal, has eight doors. Each door is the place of one Asht Sakha of Shreeji. The Asht Sakha were the eight poet friends, who wrote and sang various bhajans in classical bhao. All these rachanas are in praise of Shreeji and express different bhaos. They are used till today in Nathdwara with each Darshan, according to the particular Darshan, festival and time of the day.

(Details of each darshan will come in part – 2)

(For further details, please visit: www.shreenathjibhakti.org)

Jai MahaGurushree Shreeji!!

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ShreeNathji-Brahm sambandh

********************************************************************************** Brahm Sambandh is the connection of the seekers soul to the SuperSoul. It means total dedication and surrender of the individual self to Shree RadhaKrishn-ShreeNathji. The most important factor when taking Brahm sambandh is the requirement of purity levels in the Guru as well as purity of bhao in the disciple. This Sambandh will give desired results when the Guru initiating  Brahm sambandh has a direct connection to the Divine. (Shri Mahaprabhuji, Shri Gusainji had this direct connection and were empowered by ShreeNathji to give Brahm sambandh). In this new Sambandh with Shreeji, the human soul becomes free from past karmic cycle, provided he maintains the required levels of Bhao and Purity in his surrender to his God and his Guru. Shreeji directly accepts the sewa of such bhakts when Bramh sambandh is given by the Divine Guru. The Divine Guru initiates and plants love and bhao for Shree RadhaKrishn-ShreeNathji in the core of his disciple, as bhao and pavitrata increase it creates an awakening from within. Mind, body, soul surrenders in totality to Thakurjee, and His divinity enters their Being. The divine soul is awakened totally and becomes aware of his original realities. The most realistic examples can be read in the olden scriptures of Pushtimarg; 84 Vaishnav Ki Varta and 252 Vaishnav Ki Varta, written by Shri Gokulnathji. These two Granths are very real examples of the Divine Guru giving  Brahm sambandh to the deserving disciple. These two granths also tell us how disciples are chosen carefully by the Divine Guru for giving sambandh. Brahm sambandh is a very big responsibility for the Guru too, as he becomes bound for life times to the chosen disciple. He will have to continue taking birth to make sure that all his disciples are freed from the karmic cycle. Gurushree, Sudhir bhai says about the true meaning of Brahm sambandh, “There has to be Shravan, Manan, Aachran. Shravan is the listening of the Mantra in the ear through the guru which is easy. Manan means, the involvement while chanting the mantra. If the required depth is missing than the mantra is not effective in establishing the right connections. While chanting, if the devotees mind is involved only in the counting or the time factor, the mantra will not work in any way towards closeness with God. Beyond these two important rules is the discipline of Aachran. This would require the devotee to walk the path of mantra. He would be required to maintain the discipline and dedication which the Brahm sambandh imposes on you. If purity level is not maintained beyond the few mala chanting period, true growth is not possible. Then all the chantings and number of malas go in the dikhava (outer show) level; if the purity requirement is not followed, it becomes just a show and a time pass, as no connection is ever felt by the devotee with his God.   Darshans and play with the Almighty is there on this earth itself for these lucky divine souls who are an intimate part of the Divine Himself, come on this earth to help in the completion of His worldly leela. Then there is no separation; when the whole being, every cell, every pore is only for Shreeji. He enters our lives at every level and each moment is filled with the Presence of His bliss. Jai Shreeji!!                     ***********************************************************************************************************************

ShreeNathji-Vallabhacharya 55 Baithakji at Morbi

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Baithaks in Pushtimarg religion are holy places where Shri Vallabhacharya, the founder of Pushtimarg, and close bhakt and sewak of ShreeNathji, narrated the Holy Bhagvad Katha. They are total 84 in number and spread all over the country. Mahaprabhuji had circled the whole of India three times and done sthapna of these various Baithaks.

Each Baithak has its own particular Charitra (description).

Baithaks are holy places where there is no Idol or Chitra (Picture); sewa is done of Gaddi (Seating).

Baithaks are a very important pilgrim place for all Pushtimarg bhakts, as Shri Vallabhacharya is their primary Guru.

Shri Vallabhacharya was born in the VS 1535 or AD1478. It was on Vaishak Vad Giyaras (11th) in Vikram Samvat 1535, or AD 1478; in Satbhisha Nakshatra on a Thursday; during the Abhijit mahurat, 12.40-1.00 in the afternoon; when ShreeNathji’s Lotus Face Appeared from Govardhan to give His divya Darshan to the lucky people of the village; According to Shree Krishn’s desire, on the same day but in the Abhijit mahurat, 12.40-1.00 at night, Shree Vallabhacharya also appeared at Champaran in a ring of fire.

Further details of his life and teachings can be read on my website:

http://www.shreenathjibhakti.org

http://www.shreenathjibhakti.org/brief_sketch_vallabhacharya.htm

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some pictures displayed from my visit of the 55^th Baithak of Mahaprabhuji, located at Morbi, near Rajkot city.

Baithakji Darshans

Darshans

Outside view of the Baithakji

Bhakts who enter sewa for ShreeNathji cover their mouth with a mask, so as not to contaminate the samagri for Thakurji

Main Mukhiyaji who does sewa here

Libraray on Shri Vallabhacharya

Gaushala, which is a must at every ShreeNathji Haveli and Baithakji

 

55^th  BAITHAKJI  at MORBI

(This detail of the original varta about this Baithakji is taken from website: http://www.vallabhkankroli.org/)

 Shri Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji’s baithak is located on the bank of Krishna Lake near Machhu River. The city was established by a King Mayurdhwaja  (Satyawadi). Shri Krishna and Arjun blessed the banks of this lake.

Once, two Brahmins Bala and V(B)ada came to have Shri Mahaprabhuji’s sight (Darshan). They realized the divinity in Him and requested, We have been lost in this worldly ocean, now shower your grace over us.

Shri Mahaprabhuji accepted them as his disciples. After initiation (Brahm Sambandh) Shri Mahaprabhuji taught them about the Path of Grace and told them tom worship Shri Nathaji as Shri Krishna. Bala’s name was changed to Balkrushnadas and  V(B)ada’s name was changed to Badrayandas. Their complete stories are found in the 84 Vaishnava’s accounts.

There was a heavy storm in Morbi on 11 August 1979. thousands of people lost their lives. Billion dollars worth property was destroyed. Goswami Pujya Indirabetiji and other Acharyas of Pushti marg had helped in reestablishing the city. Miraculously  The Baithakji was intact.

Baithak Address:

Opp. Machhu River,

Behind L. E. College, Morbi – 363641,

Dist. Rajkot, Gujarat. Village –

Morbi

Contact Person & Phone:

Shri Atulbhai Mukhiyaji L: 02822 – 240 335

Nearby Railway Station:Rajkot

Shri Mahaprabhuji in sewa for ShreeNathji

 

 

 

 

ShreeNathji-Mahaprabhuji Chati 33rd Baithak at Champarayan

Here are some pictures displayed from the 33^rd Baithak of Mahaprabhuji, located at Champarayan, 60 km away from Raipur in Madhya Pradesh.

This is known as the Chati Baithak.

There are pictures of the Sarvottam Van also, which is located close to the two Baithaks at Champarayan

                                                                      Champaran-Chati Baithak-No 33

On the sixth day after his birth, the  birth ceremonies of Shri Vallabhacharya took place here.

Hence known as Chati Baithak.

This is close to the Prakatya Baithakji.

Gaadi Sewa at the Baithak

Chati Baithakji , means that the pujan which was done on sixth day after birth was held here

Complete view of the mandir

Surrounding of the Baithakji, a lovely Tulsi Pot

Details of the various manoraths, timings of the mandir

A very old Krishn painting on one of the walls

There is a Yagya shala at Champaryana, where Mahaprabhuji’s father had performed Yagnas.

Distant view of the newly constructed Yagyashala

Closer view

The actual spot of the yagya kund. It is now covered with water, the water is also in a very bad condition and bhakts are warned not to drink this water

Sarvottam Sutra Van

It is also known as the Raas Leela Van.

It is spread in 16 acres.

You can also visit Sarvottam Sutra Van, Its a Museum where Paintings depicting the life of Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya are kept.

Also there is a sort of jungle attached to it, where some sacred trees yet survive. the guide there will take you on a tour.

Sarvottam Van

The museum building where one can see paintings depicting Mahaprabhuji’s life along with all the Baithaks chitra

At the Radha krishn tree.

A Hawan place built in the Van.Shri Gusainji also did Pujan here.Mahadev, various Rishi-Muni all did Jaap here

A very old sacred tree

Champarayan forests are filled with several variety of snakes. This is one of the snake holes I found

All these trees have a Shila on them, representing the Sutras. various Rishis did their meditations in this area

ShreeNathji-Merged Swarup of Shree RadhaKrishn

Jai Shreeji

 Baithaks in Pushtimarg religion are holy places where Shri Vallabhacharya, the founder of Pushtimarg, narrated the Holy Bhagvad Katha. They are total 84 in number and spread all over the country.

Mahaprabhuji had circled the whole of India three times and done sthapna of these various Baithaks.

Each Baithak has its own particular Charitr (description).

Baithaks are holy places where there is no Idol or Chitra (Picture); seva is done of Gaddi (Seating).

Mahaprabhuji, Shri Vallabhacharya was born in the VS 1535 or AD1478.

It was on Vaishak Vad Giyaras (11th) in Vikram Samvat 1535, or AD 1478; in Satbhisha Nakshatra on a Thursday; during the Abhijit mahurat, 12.40-1.00 in the afternoon; when ShreeNathji’s Lotus Face Appeared from Govardhan to give His divya Darshan to the lucky people of the village; According to Shree Krishn’s desire, on the same day but in the Abhijit mahurat, 12.40-1.00 at night, Shree Vallabhacharya also appeared at Champaran in a ring of fire.

(Details of Shri Vallabhacharya life and teachings,can be read on my website:  http://www.shreenathjibhakti.org

Details on the Baithaks can be read on website: http://www.vallabhkankroli.org/

ShreeNathji-Mahaprabhuji 32 Baithak At Champarayan

 ShreeNathji-Mahaprabhuji 32 Baithak At Champarayan

Though it is numbered 32, it is the most important as it is also the birthplace of Shri Mahaprabhuji and hence a very important teerth for all Pushtimarg bhakts, as Shri Vallabhacharya is their primary Guru.

Here are some pictures from my visit to the 32nd Baithak of Mahaprabhuji, located at Champarayan, 60 km away from Raipur in Madhya Pradesh.

Mangla Aarti Darshans

Mukhiyaji doing the Mangla arti

Bhakts taking the arti after darshans

View from a distance

Beautiful architecture

See the lovely Kamal on the top at the entrance of the Baithak

Main entrance to Baithakji

This lovely entrance leads you to the main building

Inside the hall, please read the board, as it tells you the significance of this place

Walk through this beautiful place

This place is built in the middle of a jungle and luckily it has not been destroyed

 

 

Hall where bhakts can wait for darshans

Live darshans are shown here, as it can get very crowded during festive occasions

Painting which describes the birth and resurrection of Shri Vallabhacharya

Before the darshans open, a lone bhakt saying her prayers

Complete Shringar darshans of Gaadi sewa

 

Mukhiyaji with the jhoola. the tree in the background is the point where the original tree stood, this is a branch of the same tree. Under this tree Mahaprabhuji was found in a ring of fire

Some bhakts who have been lucky to go inside for the darshans

Entrance to Shri Yamunaji

A small Stream of Mahanadi river flows near the temple which is believed to be from Yamuna river and worshiped.

These are the Bumble bee which live on this tree. there are several holes in the trunk where they just disappear

 

The very old tree trunk with numerous holes

ShreeNathji-Mahaprabhuji pratham milan on Govardhan Parvat. Shreeji had summoned Vallabhacharyaji to come and start His sewa here, also to build His mandir

It was on Vaishak Vad Giyaras (11th) in Vikram Samvat 1535, or AD 1478; in Satbhisha Nakshatra on a Thursday; during the Abhijit mahurat, 12.40-1.00 in the afternoon; when ShreeNathji’s Lotus Face Appeared from Govardhan to give His divya Darshan to the lucky people of the village; According to Shree Krishn’s desire, on the same day but in the Abhijit mahurat, 12.40-1.00 at night, Shree Vallabhacharya also appeared at Champaran in a ring of fire.

Divine Darshans

Jai Shreeji!!

ShreeNathji-“Pavitra Ekadashi”

 

In 2012, “Pavitra Ekadasi” falls on the 29^th July, Sunday. The mahurat for offering “Pavitra” for ShreeNathji this year is early morning, 6.05 – 7.33 am. We go to the two ShreeNathji Haveli close by and have some divine darshans of Shreeji being offered “Pavitra”. Here the Presence of Dear Shreeji is total at His Haveli, as He gives us divine darshans of His natkhat Plays!

I feel very lucky, as my birthday also falls on this very auspicious day; which was 16^th August 1956, Shravan Shukla Giyaras, in the afternoon at 1.03 pm, at the Abhijit mahurat. Every birthday on “Pavitra Ekadasi”, Gurushree changes my sankalp thread also, after completing his offering for Shreeji “Pavitra”, in his office and home.

Today again we are graced with the  Presence of my Dear Mahagurushree, Divine ShreeNathji on this occasion as He tells me, “Tum kitni naseeb wali ho ki har saal, aaj tumhara janmdin hai, aur tumhara sankalp thread bhi badla jata hai, mere “Pavitra” ki tarah!” (He also calls me His ‘best friend’- you can read further details here : https://abhashahra.wordpress.com/about/ )

Today we have also updated the ShreeNathji Application for the Bhog Darshans:

http://www.shreenathjibhakti.org/m/index.htm

 

Shravan Shukla Giyaras, or “Pavitra Ekadasi”, is a very auspicious day for all Vaishnavites and Pushti maarg followers. This day comes once every year, when ShreeNathji is offered a ‘Pavitra’ (a reshmi or cotton thread). Today is the day when Shreeji accepts this offering from all His bhakts everywhere. This ‘offering’ darshan can be had in Shreeji Haveli’s all over the world. The bhakts who have personal sewa in their homes also change the “Pavitra” for their ShreeNathji Swarup or Chavi.

This day is important for bhakts, as today is the day when Shri Vallabhacharya received Brahm sambandh from Shree Krishn – ShreeNathji, Himself.

Nearly 520 years ago, on Vikram Samvat 1549,AD 1492, Shravan Shukla Giyaras, Shree Krishn Himself Appeared in the Form of ShreeNathji before Shri Vallabhacharya. He told Shri Vallabhacharya to initiate people in the ways of total surrender and sewa, through Brahm sambandh. Thakurjee promised Shri Vallabhacharya He would accept the sewa of all the devotees who were initiated with the Brahm sambandh. Shree Krishn gave him the Mantra for initiation on this day.

Shri Mahaprabhuji then garlanded ShreeNathji with a “Pavitra” (cotton thread garland) and offered Him some misri (crystals of sugar). After this divine meeting ShreeNathji disappeared. Shri Mahaprabhuji composed “Shri Madhurashtakam” praising the form and beauty of Shree Krishn the way He appeared before him.

Shri DamodarDas Harsaniji was the first vaishnav to be initiated into Pushti Bhakti marg by receiving Brahm-Sambandh from Shri MahaPrabhuji.

 

This occasion is celebrated as Pavitra Ekadashi. It is also known as the day of the Birth of Pushti marg – The path of Grace and Bhakti.

JAI SHREEJI!!

http://www.shreenathjibhakti.org

 

ShreeNathji being offered “Pavitra”

Above picture courtesy:  http://pushti-marg.net/index.html