Folio Archives
Stavmrta-lahari
The Poems of Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti

Sri Gurvastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying the Spiritual Master

1
samsara-davanala-lidha-loka-
tranaya karunya-ghanaghanatvam
praptasya kalyana-gunarnavasya
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy.  Just as a cloud pours water on a forest-fire to extinguish it, so the spiritual master delivers the materially afflicted world by extinguishing the blazing fire of material existence.  I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master, who is an ocean of auspicious qualities.

2
mahaprabhoh kirtana-nrtya-gita-
vaditra-madyan manaso rasena
romanca-kampasru-taranga-bhajo
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

Chanting the holy name, dancing in ecstasy, singing, and playing musical instruments, the spiritual master is always gladdened by the sankirtana movement of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu.  Because he is relishing the mellows of pure devotion within his mind, sometimes his hair stands on end, he feels quivering in his body, and tears flow from his eyes like waves.  I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master.

3
sri-vigraharadhana-nitya-nana-
srngara-tan-mandira-marjanadau
yuktasya bhaktams ca niyunjato ‘pi
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

The spiritual master is always engaged in the temple worship of Sri Sri Radha and Krsna.  He also engages his disciples in such worship.  They dress the Deities in beautiful clothes and ornaments, clean Their temple, and perform other similar worship of the Lord.  I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master.

4
catur-vidha-sri-bhagavat-prasada
svada-anna-trptan hari-bhakta-sanghan
krtvaiva trptim bhajatah sadaiva
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

The spiritual master is always offering Krsna four kinds of delicious food [analysed as that which is licked, chewed, drunk, and sucked].  When the spiritual master sees that the devotees are satisfied by eating bhagavat-prasada, he is satisfied.  I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master.

5
sri-radhika-madhavayor apara
madhurya-lila-funa-rupa-namnam
prati-ksanasvadana-lolupasya
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

The spiritual master is always eager to hear and chant about the unlimited conjugal pastimes of Radhika and Madhava, and their qualities, names, and forms.  The spiritual master aspires to relish these at every moment.  I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master.

6
nikunja-yuno rati-keli-siddhyai
ya yalibhir yuktir apeksaniya
tatrati-daksyad ati-vallabhasya
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

The spiritual master is very dear, because he is expert in assisting the gopis, who at different times make different tasteful arrangements for the perfection of Radha and Krsna conjugal loving affairs within the groves of Vrndavana.  I offer my most humble obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master.

7
saksad-dharitvena samasta-sastrair
uktas tatha bhavyata eva sadbhih
kintu prabhor yah priya eva tasya
vande guroh sri caranaravindam

The spiritual master is to be honoured as much as the Supreme Lord, because he is the most confidential servitor of the Lord.  This is acknowledged in all revealed scriptures and followed by all authorities.  Therefore, I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master, who is a bona fide representation of Sri Hari [Krsna].

8
yasya prasadad bhagavat-prasado
yasyaprasadan na gitah kuto 'pi
dhyayan stuvams tasya yasa tri-sandhyam
vande guroh sri-caranaravindam

By the mercy of the spiritual master one receives the benediction of Krsna.  Without the grace of the spiritual master, on cannot make any advancement.  Therefore, I should always remember and praise the spiritual master.  At least three times a day I should offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of my spiritual master.

9
srimad-guror astakam etad uccair
brahme muhurte pathati prayatnat
yas tena vrndavana-natha-saksat-
sevaiva labhya januso ‘nta eva

One who during the brahma-muhurta hour carefully recites these eight prayers glorifying the spiritual master will at the end of this life attain direct service to the Lord of Vrndavana.

Srila Narottama-prabhor-astaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Srila Narottama dasa Thakura

1
sri-krsna-namamrta-varsi-vaktra-
candra-prabha-dhvasta-tamo-bharaya
gaurangadevanucaraya tasmai
namo namah srila-narottamaya

I offer respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura, a sincere follower of Lord Gaurangadeva.  Emitting a shower of the nectar of the holy name, with its splendour, the moon of His mouth destroys the darkness of ignorance.

2
sankirtananandaja-manda-hasya
danta-dyuti-dyotita-dinmukhaya
svedasru-dhara-snapitaya tasmai
namo namah srila-narottamaya

I offer my respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  Blissful by singing Krsna’s glories, he would become bathed in streams of perspiration and the splendour of his teeth and gentle smile would illuminate all directions.

3
mrdanga-nama-sruti-matra-cancat-
padambuja-dvandva-manoharaya
sadyah samudyat-pulakaya tasmai
namo namah srila-narottamaya

I offer my respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  Hearing the mrdangas and the sound of the holy name, he would dance, moving his enchanting lotus feet and the hairs of his body erect in ecstasy.

4
gandharva-garva-ksapana-svalasya-
vismapitasesa-krti-vrajaya
sva-srsta-gana-prathitaya tasmai
namo namah srila-narottamaya

I offer respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  His dancing dispelled the Gandharvas’ pride.  His devotional activities filled everyone with wonder.  His songs made Him famous.

5
ananda-murcchavani-pata-bhata-
dhuli-bharalankrta-vigrahaya
yad-darsanam bhagya-bharena tasmai
namo namah srila-narottamaya

I offer respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  He would sometimes faint in ecstasy and fall to the ground, his body decorated with dust.  The very fortunate would see him in that way.

6
sthale sthale yasya krpa-prabhabhih
krsnanya-trsna jana-samhatinam
nirmulita eva bhavanti tasmai
namo namah srila-narottamaya

I offer respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  In place after place the splendour of his mercy uprooted the people’s thirst for anything other than Krsna.

7
yad-bhakti-nisthopala-rekhikeva
sparsah punah sparsamaniva yasya
pramanyam evam srutivad yadiyam
tasmai namah srila-narottamaya

I offer respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  His firm faith in devotional service to Krsna is like a necklace of precious stones.  His touch is like a sparsamani jewel.  His words are like the four Vedas.

8
murtaiva bhaktih kim ayam kim esa
vairagya-saras tanuman nr-loke
sambhavyate yah krtibhih sadaiva
tasmai namah srila narottamaya

I offer respectful obeisances to Srila Narottama dasa Thakura.  The devotees always wonder: Is he devotional service personified?  Is he the essence of renunciation who has descended to the world of human beings in this form?

9
rajan-mrdanga-karatala-kalabhiramam
gauranga-gana-madhu-pana-bharabhiramam
sriman-narottama-padambuja-manju-nrtyam
bhrtyam krtarthayatu mam phalitesta-krtyam

May the dancing of Sri Narottama’s lotus feet, which is graceful with the melodious sounds of karatalas and mrdangas, and which is sweet with the honey of Lord Gauranga, fulfil the spiritual desires of me, his servant.

Sri Lokanatha-prabhuvarastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Srila Lokanatha Gosvami

1
yah krsna-caitanya-krpaika-vittas
tata-prema-hemabharanadhya-cittah
nipatya bhumau satatam namamas
tumi lokanatham prabhum asrayamah

Falling on the ground, we repeatedly bow down and take shelter of Prabhu Lokanatha Gosvami.  His only wealth is the mercy of Lord Krsna Caitanya, and his heart is decorated with the golden ornaments of pure love.

2
yo labdha-vrndavana-nitya-vasah
parisphurat-krsna-vilasa-rasah
svacara-carya-satataviramas
tam lokanatham prabhum asrayamah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu, who always stayed in Vrndavana, remembering Krsna’s pastimes and always engaged in devotional service.

3
sadollasad-bhagavad-anurakto
yah krsna-radha-sravanadi-bhaktya
ayatayami-krta-sarva-yamas
tam lokanatham prabhum asrayamah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu, who was radiant with love.  He was always busy in devotional service: hearing about Sri Sri Radha and Krsna and serving Them in many ways.

4
vrndavanadhisa-padabja-seva
svade ‘numajjanti na hanta ke va
yas tesv api slaghyatamo ‘bhiramas
tam lokanatham prabhum asrayamah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu.  Who is now not plunged in the sweetness of service to the lotus feet of Vrndavana’s king and queen?  Among these devotees charming Lokanatha Prabhu is the best.

5
yah krsna-lila-rasa eva lokan
anunmukhan viksya bibharti sokan
svayam tad-asvadana-matra-kamas
tam lokanatham prabhum asrayamah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu.  He became filled with grief when he saw the people were not eager to taste the sweetness of Krsna’s pastimes.  His only desire was to taste that sweetness.

6
krpa-balam yasya viveda kascin
narottamo nama mahan vipascit
yasya prathiyan visayoparamas
tam lokanatham prabhum asrayamah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu, who completely renounced material sense gratification.  A wise devotee named Narottama dasa Thakura understood the greatness of his mercy.

7
raganuga-vartmani yat-prasadad
visanty avijna api nirvisadah
jane krtagasy api yas tv avamas
tam lokanatham prabhum asramayah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu, who is not unfriendly to the sinful.  By his mercy the foolish materialists have entered the path of spontaneous devotional service.

8
yad-dasa-dasanuga-dasa-dasah
vayam bhavamah phalitabhilasah
yadiyatayam sahasa visamas
tam lokanatham prabhum asramayah

We take shelter of Lokanatha Prabhu.  Desiring to become like him and attain what he attained, we have become the servant of the servant of the follower of the servant of his servant.

9
sri-lokanathastakam atyudaram
bhaktya pathed yah purusartha-saram
sa manjulali padavim prapadya
sri-radhikam sevata eva sadyah

These eight noble verses glorifying Lokanatha Gosvami reveal the highest goal of life.  One who reads them with devotion will immediately attain the path of pure devotional service.  He will serve Srimati Radharani.

10
so ‘yam sri-lokanathah sphuratu puru-krpa-
rasmibhih svaih samudyann
uddhrtyoddhrtya yo nah pracuratama-ramah kupato 
dipitabhih
drgbhih sva-prema-vithya disam adisad aho yam srita divya-lila-
ratnadhyam vindamana vayam api nibhrtam srila-
govardhanam smah

With splendid glances illuminating the path of pure love and with the splendid effulgence of his mercy chasing the deep darkness from the well of my heart, may Lokanatha Gosvami appear before me.  Taking shelter of Him, we have found Govardhana Hill filled with the jewels of Krsna’s transcendental pastimes.

Sri Saci-nandana-vijayastaka
Eight Prayers Describing the Glories of the Son of Saci

1
gadadhara yada parah sa kila ksacanalokito
maya srita-gayadhavana madhura-murtir ekas tada
navambuda iva bruvan dhrta-navambudo netrayor
luthan bhuvi niruddha-vag vijayate saci-nandanah

One day, Gadadhara Pandita heard the following words: O Gadadhara! I saw the most extraordinary person on the road to Gaya.  His form was very handsome, and He roared just like a thundercloud.  His eyes rained tears as if they had become rain clouds, and He rolled about on the ground, His voice choked up in the ecstasy of love of God.  All glories to that Lord, the son of Saci-devi.

2
alaksita-carim harity-udita-matratah kam dasam
asav ati-budhagranir atula-kampa-sampadikam
vrajann ahaha modte na punar atra sastresv iti
sva-sisya-gana-vestito vijayate saci-nandanah

Oh, what kind of extraordinary state has He attained?  Although He is the leader of the scholars, He no longer delights in study.  When He holds class, surrounded by his pupils, if He hears the sound “Hari”, He begins to tremble.  All glories to that Lord, the son of Saci-devi.

3
haha kim idam ucyate patha pathatra krsnam muhur
vina tam iha sadhutam dadhati kim buddha dhatavah
prasiddha iha varna-sanghatita-samyag-amnayakah
sva-namni yad iti bruvan vijayate saci-nandanah

Once during class Lord Caitanya interrupted a pupil and asked, ‘What are you saying?  Instead of these verbs, you should constantly repeat the name of Krsna, the most famous of all worlds according to the Vedas.  O students, without Krsna, what benefit can verbs give?’  All glories to Lord Caitanya, the son of Saci-devi, who chants His own holy name in that way.

4
navambuja-dale yad-iksana-savarnata-dirghate
sada sva-hrdi bhavyatam sapadi sadhyatam tat-padam
sa pathayati vismitan smita-mukhah sva-sisyan iti
prati-prakaranam prabhur vijayate saci-nandanah

No matter what the particular topic of study was, He would smile and instruct His astonished grammar students in this way: ‘O students, please place the two large eyes of Sri Krsna, which are as beautiful as two lotus petals, within your hearts, and please place His lotus feet within your hearts in the same way.’  All glories to that Lord, the son of Saci-devi.

5
kva yani karavani kim kva nu maya harir labhyatam
tam udisatu kah sakhe kathaya kah prapadyeta mam
iti dravati ghurnate kalita-bhakta-kanthah suca
sa murchayati mataram vijayate saci-nandanah

At other times, the Lord would say, ‘O friend, where shall I go, and what shall I do to attain Lord Hari?’  Who will show Him to Me?  Please tell me who will help me in this way’.  Speaking thus, the Lord ran here and there and rolled about on the ground.  Their throats filled with grief, the stricken devotees called out to Him.  In this way the Lord caused His mother Saci-devi, to faint.  All glories to that Lord, the son of Saci-devi.

6
smararbuda-durapaya tanu-ruci-chata-cchayaya
tamah kali-tama-krtam nikhilam eva nirmulayan
nrnam nayana-saubhagam divi-sadam mukhais tarayan
lasann adhi-dharah prabhur vijayate saci-nandanah

The reflection of the splendid beauty of the Lord is not attainable even by millions of Cupids, and with that splendour the Lord uproots the darkness of the ignorance of the age of Kali.  Descending with the principal demigods, the Lord delighted the eyes of the residents of this earth planet.  All glories to that effulgent Lord, the son of Saci-devi.

7
ayam kanaka-bhudharah pranaya-ratnam uccaih kiran
krpaturataya vrajan abhavad atra visvambharah
yad-aksi-patha-sancarat-suradhuni-pravahair nijam
param ca jagad ardayan vijayate saci-nandanah

He is like a golden mountain that scatters jewels of pure love of God.  Because of His great mercy He wandered on this earth planet.  That Lord, known as Visvambhara, the maintainer of the universe, inundated His own universe with the currents of the Ganges river of tears of love of Godhead flowing from His eyes.  All glories to that Lord, the son of Saci-devi.

8
gato ‘smi mathuram mama priyatama visakha-sakhi
gata nu bata kam dasam vada katham nu vedani tam
itiva sa ni jecchaya vraja-pateh sutah prapitas
tadiya-rasa-carvanam vijayate saci-nandanah

Lord Krsna said to Uddhava: ‘What is the condition of Srimati Radharani now that I have come to Mathura?  Please tell me so that I may understand.’  In order to fulfil His own desire, Lord Krsna, the son of the king of Vraja, has descended as Lord Caitanya to taste the mellows of His own devotional service

9
idam pathati yo ‘stakam guna-nidhe saci-nandana
prabho tava padambuje sphurad-amanda-visrambhavan
tam ujjvala-matim nija-pranaya-rupa-varganugam
vidhaya nija-dhamani drutam uri-kurusva svayam

O Lord, O son of Saci-devi, O ocean of transcendental qualities, please place in Your abode all who read these eight verses and are full of faith in Your lotus feet.  Please accept those readers whose intelligence is pure and who follow in the footsteps of the great devotees headed by Srila Rupa Govami, who are full of great love for You.

Sri Mahaprabhor astakam
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Mahaprabhu

1
svarupa bhavato bhavatv ayam iti smita-snigdhaya
giraiva raghunatham utpulika-gatram ullasayan
rahasy upadisan nija-pranaya-gudha-mudram svayam
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, he is yours.”  With these words affectionately marked with a smile and making Raghunatha dasa so happy the hairs of his body stood erect, Lord Gauracandra gave a sign of His deep love in that secluded place.  May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

2
svarupa mama hrd-vranam bata viveda rupah katham
lilekha yad ayam patha tvam api tala-patre ‘ksaram
iti pranaya-vellitam vidadhad asu rupantaram
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, how did Rupa Gosvami understand the wound in My heart?  Read this verse he wrote about it on this palm leaf.”  Speaking these words, the Lord made Rupa Gosvami’s heart tremble with ecstatic love.  May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

3
svarupa parakiya-sat-pravara-vastunasecchatam
dadhaj jana iha tvaya paricito na vetiksayan
sanatanam uditya vismita-mukham maha-vismitam
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gaurancandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, among these aspiring devotees you have not selected one worthy to explain the most exalted parakiya-rasa.”  With a glance the Lord then singled out the astonished Sanatana Gosvami.  May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

4
svarupa hari-nama yaj jagad aghosayam tena kim
na vacayitum apy athasakam imam sivanandajam
iti sva-pada-lehanaih sisum acikarad yah kavim
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, I made the entire universe chant Lord Hari’s name.  Why can I not make this son of Sivananda Sena chant?”  By speaking these words the Lord transformed that child into a great poet.  May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

5
svarupa rasa-ritir ambuja-drsam vraje bhanyatam
ghana-pranaya-mana-ja sruti-yugam mamotkanthyate
rama yad iha manini tad api lokayeti bruvan
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracadrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, let the lotus-eyed gopis describe the nectar stream that flows in Vraja.  My ears yearn for that stream, which is born from intense jealous love.  Here is the jealous goddess of fortune!  Look!”  Speaking in this way, may Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

6
svarupa rasa-mandiram bhavasi man-mudam aspadam
tvam atra purusottame vraja-bhuviva me vartase
iti sva-parirambhanaih pulakinam vyadhat tam ca yo
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, you are a temple of nectar!  You are the home of My happiness!  Here in Jagannatha Puri you are My Vraja!”  Speaking these words and embracing him, the Lord overwhelmed Svarupa Damodara, making the hairs of his body stand up in ecstasy.  May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

7
svarupa kim apiksitam kva nu vibho nisi svapnatah
prabho kathaya kim nu tam nava-yuva varambhodharah
vyadhat kim ayam iksyate kim u na hity agat tam dasam
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, what did I see?”
“Where, my Lord?”
“In a dream at night.”
“Tell me, what was it, my Lord.”
“It was a youth that was a monsoon cloud.”
“What did He do?  Do You see Him now?”
“He has not left My sight.”
May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

8
svarupa mama netrayoh purata eva krsno hasann
apaiti na kara-graham bata dadati ha kim sakhe
iti skhalati dhavati svasiti ghurnate yah sada
virajatu ciraya me hrdi sa gauracandrah prabhuh

“Svarupa Damodara, why does smiling Krsna not come before My eyes?  O Friend, why does He not extend His hand to Me?”  Again and again He runs, stumbles, sighs, and trembles.  May Lord Gauracandra eternally shine in my heart.

9
svarupa-caritamrtam kila mahaprabhor astakam
rahasyatamam adbhutam pathati yah krti praty-aham
svarupa-parivaratam nayati tam saci-nandano
ghana-pranaya-madhurim sva-padayoh samasvadayan

Lord Caitanya makes a saintly devotee who daily reads these eight wonderful and confidential verses glorifying Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and filled with the nectar pastimes of the Lord with Svarupa Damodara Gosvami taste the sweetness of deep love for His lotus feet.  He makes him a personal associate of Svarupa Damodara.

Sri Svapna-vilasamrtastaka
Eight Prayers Describing Nectar Pastimes in a Dream

1
priya svapne drsta saridina-sutevatra pulinam
yatha vrndaranye natana-patavas tatra bahavah
mrdangadyam vadyam vividham iha kascid dvija-manih
sa vidyud-gaurangah ksipati jagatim prema-jaladhau

Srimati Radharani said: Beloved, in a dream I saw a river shore like the Yamuna here.  There were many expert dancers as in Vrndavana.  There were mrdangas and other instruments.  There was a brahmana jewel as splendid as lightning who was tossing the universe into an ocean of pure love.

2
kadacit krsneti pralapati rudan karhicid asau
kva radhe ha heti svasiti patati projjhati dhrtim
nataty ullasena kvacid api ganaih svaih pranayibhis
trnadi-brahmantam jagad atitaram rodayati sah

Sometimes He calls out: “O Krsna!”  and sometimes He sighs: “O Radha, where are You?”  Sometimes He falls to the ground, sometimes He acts wildly, losing all composure, and sometimes He dances ecstatically with His loving associates.  He has made all the residents of this world, from the blades of grass up to Lord Brahma, loudly call out the name of Krsna.

3
tato buddhir bhranta mama samajani preksya kim aho
bhavet so ‘yam kantah kim ayam aham evasmi na parah
aham cet kva preyan mama sa kila cet kvaham iti me
bhramo bhuyo bhuyan abhavad atha nidram gatavati

As I gazed at Him, My intelligence became bewildered.  If He is my lover, where am I?  If He is I, where is My lover?  If He is My lover, where am I?  As I slept, I became more and more bewildered.

4
priye drstva tas tah kutukini maya darsita-cari
ramesadya murtir na khalu bhavati vismayam agat
katham vipro vismapayitum asakat tvam tava katham
tatha bhrantim dhatte sa hi bhavati ko hanta kim idam

Sri Krsna said: O inquisitive girl, when I showed You Narayana and My other forms You were not surprised.  Why does this brahmana surprise You?  Why does He bewilder You so You say “Who is He?”

5
iti procya prestham ksanam atha paramrsya ramano
hasann akuta jnam vyanudad atha tam kaustubha-manim
tatha diptim tene sapadi sa yatha drstim iti tad
vilasanam laksmam sthira-cara-ganaih sarvam abhavat

After speaking these words to His beloved, the smiling lover, Krsna, touched His Kaustubha jewel.  The jewel, understanding the Lord’s intent, glowed and then showed all the same pastimes and all the moving and non moving entities She saw in her dream.

6
vibhavyatha proce priyatama maya jnatam akhilam
tavakutam yat tvam smitam atanuthas tattvam asi mam
sphutam yan navadir yad abhimatir atrapy aham iti
sphuranti me tasmad aham api sa evety anumime

Srimati Radharani reflected for a moment and said: Beloved, I know what is in Your heart now that makes You smile.  You are He.  What You have said and thought is now clear to Me, and therefore I think I am also He.

7
yad apy asmakinam rati-padam idam kaustubha-manim
pradipyatraivadidrsad akhila-jivan api bhavan
sva-saktyavirbhuya svam akhila-vilasam pratijanam
nigadya premabdhau punar api tadahasyasi jagat

Making this Kaustubha jewel, which is so delightful to Us, shine in this way, You have revealed Yourself to all living entities.  By Your own transcendental potency You will appear, display Your pastimes, teach everyone, and again plunge the world into the ocean of pure love.

8
yad uktam gargena vraja-pati-samaksam sruti-vida
bhavet pito varnah kvacid api tavaitan na hi mrsa
atah svapnah satyo mama ca na tada bhrantir abhavat
tvam evasau saksad iha yad anubhuto ‘si tad-rtam

In the king of Vraja’s presence, the learned Vedic scholar Gargacarya said that You will appear with a yellow complexion.  He did not lie.  This dream of Mine is true.  It is not an illusion.  In this dream I have directly seen You.

9
pibed yasya svapnamrtam idam aho citta-madhupah
sa sandeha-svapnat tvaritam iha jagarti su-matih
avaptas caitanyam pranaya-jaladhau khelati yato
bhrsam dhatte tasminn atula-karunam kunja-nrpatau

If the bumble-bee of the reader’s mind drinks the nectar of this Svapna-vilasamrta, then that intelligent reader will quickly awaken from the dream of materialistic doubt.  Such a reader will attain Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu.  He will sport in the ocean of pure love.  He will attain the peerless mercy of the king of Vrndavana.

Sri Gopaladevastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Gopaladeva

1
madhura-mrdula-cittah prema-matraika-vittah
svajana-racita-vesah prapta-sobha-visesah
vividha-manimayalankaravan sarva-kalam
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, whose heart is charming and gentle, for whom pure love is the only wealth, who wears garments made by His devotees, who is splendidly handsome, and who wears many kinds of jewel ornaments, eternally appear in my heart.

2
nirupama-guna-rupah sarva-madhurya-bhupah
srita-tanu-ruci-dasyah koti-candra-stutasyah
amrta-vijayi-hasyah procchalac-cilli-lasyah
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, whose virtues and handsomeness have no equal, who is the king of all sweetness, who is served by all bodily splendour, whose face is praised by millions of moons, whose smile defeats nectar, and whose eyebrows playfully dance, appear in my heart.

3
dhrta-nava-parabhagah svaya-hasta-sthitagah
prakatita-nija-kaksah prapta-lavanya-laksah
krta-nija-jana-raksah prema-vistara-daksah
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, who is the abode of all ever-fresh opulence and auspiciousness, whose left hand rests on His waist, who possesses handsomeness multiplied millions of times, who protects His devotees, and who expertly increases their love for Him, appear in my heart.

4
krama-valad-anuraga-sva-priyapanga-bhaga-
dhvanita-rasa-vilasa-jnana-vijnapi-hasah
smrta-ratipati-yagah priti-hamsi-tadagah
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, whose sidelong glances gradually increase His devotees’ love, whose knowing smile announces His nectar pastimes, who remembers the Kamadeva-yajna, and who is a lake where the swans of pure love play, appear in my heart.

5
madhurima-bhara-magne bhaty asavye’valagne
tribalir alasavattvad yasya pustanatatvat
itarata iha tasya mara-rekheva yasya
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, the three lines on whose charming waist, created from looseness and slight chubbiness, are like the mark of Kamadeva, appear in my heart.

6
vahati valita-harsam vahayams canuvarsam
bhajati ca saganam svam bhajoyan yo ‘rpayan svam
giri-mukta-manim sridama-van-mitrata-srih
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, who showers transcendental bliss, who shares lunch with His friends, who gives them Govardhana Hill, the crest-jewel of mountains, and who shines with friendship for Sridama, appear in my heart.

7
adhidharam anuragam madhavendrasya tanvams
tad-amala-hrdayottham prema-sevam vivrnvan
prakatita-nija-saktya vallabhacarya-bhaktya
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva, who with devotional potency placed loving devotional service in the pure heart of Madhavendra Puri, appear in my heart.

8
pratidinam adhunapi preksyate sarvadapi
pranaya-surasa-carya yasya varya saparya
ganayati kati bhogan kah krti tat-prayogan
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

Even today sweet loving service to Srila Gopaladeva may be seen at every moment.  What saintly devotee can count the many offerings made to Him?  May Srila Gopaladeva appear in my heart.

9
giridhara-vara-devasyastakenemam eva
smarati nisi dine va yo grhe va vane va
akutila hrdayasya premadatvena tasya
sphuratu hrdi sa eva srila-gopaladevah

May Srila Gopaladeva appear in the heart of the pure-hearted devotee who, living either at home or in the forest, remembers Him by chanting, either in the day or night, these eight verses glorifying the Deity of Govardhana Hill.

Sri Madana-Gopaladevastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Madana-Gopaladeva

1
mrdu-talaranya-jita-rucira-darada-prabham
kulisa-kanjari-dara-kalasa-jhasa-cihnitam
hrdi mamadhaya nija-carana-sarasiruham
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

O Madana Gopala, please place Your lotus feet, which are marked with a thunderbolt, lotus, conchshell, waterpot, and fish, which eclipse all splendours, and which with soft soles have conquered Vrndavana forest, in my heart.  Please protect me, for I am now Your home.

2
mukhara-manjira-nakha-sisira-kiranavali
vimala-malabir anupadam udita-kantibhih
sravana-netra-svasana-patha-sukhada natha he
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

With every step splendid garlands of the cooling moonlight of Your toenail-moons and the words of Your talkative anklets bring happiness to the path of my ears, eyes, and breath.  O Madana Gopala, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

3
manimayosnisa-dara-kutilimani locanoc-
calana-caturya-cita-lavanimani gandayoh
kanaka-tatanka-ruci-madhurimani majjayan
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

O Madana Gopala, as You plunge me in the sweetness of the glittering golden earrings at Your cheeks, in the tilt of Your jewelled crown, and in the handsomeness of Your expertly moving restless eyes, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

4
adhara-sonimni dara-hasita-sitimarcite
vijita-manikya-rada-kirana-gana-mandite
nihita-vamsika jana-duravagama-lila he
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

You place a flute on the red of Your lips, which are worshipped by the splendour of Your smile and decorated with the effulgence of teeth that defeat the splendour of rubies.  O Madana Gopala, whose pastimes cannot be understood by the people, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

5
padaka-harali-pada-kataka-nata-kinkini-
valaya tatanka-mukha-nikhila-mani-bhusanaih
kalita-navyabha nija-tanu-ruci-bhusitair
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

You are splendid with golden earrings, many necklaces and garlands, dancing anklets and bracelets, and many other jewel ornaments, which are themselves decorated by the splendour of Your form.  O Madana Gopala, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

6
udupa-koti-kadana-vadana-ruci-pallavair
madana-koti-mathana-nakhara-kara-kandalaih
dyutaru-koti-sadana-sadaya-nayaneksanair
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

O Madana Gopala, with Your merciful glances, which are arbours of millions of celestial desire-trees, with the new blossoms of the splendour of Your face, which eclipses millions of moons, and with the kandala flowers of Your hands, which have nails to attack millions of Kamadevas, please protect me, for I am now Your home

7
krta-narakara-bhava-mukha-vibudha-sevita
dyuti-sudha-sara puru-karuna kam api ksitau
prakatayan prema-bharam adhikrta-sanatanam
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

O Madana Gopala, who appeared in a humanlike form and was served by Siva and all the demigods, O merciful one, who showed the Earth eternal spiritual love, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

8
tarani ja-tira-bhuvi tarani-kara-varaka-
priyaka-sandastha-mani-sadana-mahita-sthite
lalitaya sardham anupada-ramita radhaya
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

On the Yamuna’s shore is a shady kadamba grove and a glorious jewel palace where You eternally play with Radha and Lalita.  O Madana Gopala, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

9
madana-gopala tava sarasam idam astakam
pathati yah sayam ati-sarala-matir asu tam
sva-caranambhoja-rati-rasa-sarasi majjayan
madana-gopala nija-sadanam anuraksa mam

Into the nectar lake of love for Your lotus feet You quickly plunge a sincere devotee who reads these eight nectar verses glorifying You.  O Madana Gopala, please protect me, for I am now Your home.

Sri Govindadevastaka
Eight Verses Glorifying Sri Govindadeva

1
jambunadosnisa-viraji-mukta-
mala-mani-dyoti-sikhandakasya
bhangya nrnam lolupayan drsah sri-
govindadevah saranam mamastu

May Sri Govindadeva, who enchants the eyes of all living entities with the graceful tilt of the peacock feather in His golden crown shining with pearls and jewels, be my shelter.

2
kapolayoh kundala-lasya-hasya
cchavi-cchata-cumbitayor yugena
sammohayan sambhajatam dhiyah sri-
govindadevah saranam mamastu

May Sri Govindadeva, who enchants the devotees’ hearts with His cheeks kissed by the splendour of His smile and the dancing of His earrings, be my shelter.

3
sva-preyasi-locana-kona-sidhu-
praptyai puro-varti-janeksanena
bhavam kam api udgamayan budhanam
govindadevah saranam mamastu

May Sri Govindadeva who, by glancing at His beloved to attain the nectar of Her sidelong glance, arouses the love of all the demigoddesses, be my shelter.

4
vama-pragandarpita-ganga-bhasvat-
tatanka-lolalaka-kanti-siktaih
bhru-valganair unmadayan kula-strir
govindadevah saranam mamastu

May Sri Govindadeva, who maddens the pious gopis with the graceful movements of His eyebrows, which are sprinkled by the beauty of His moving locks of hair, splendid earrings, and His cheek placed on His left shoulder, be my shelter.

5
dure sthitas ta murali-ninadaih
sva-saurabhair mudrita-karna-palih
nasarudho hrd-gata eva karsan
govindadevah saranam mamastu

From far away blocking their ears with the music of His flute and their noses with the sweet fragrance of His body, He enters the gopis hearts and pulls them to Him.  May Sri Govindadeva be my shelter.

6
navina-lavanya-bharaih ksitau sri-
rupanuragambunidhi-prakasaih
satas camatkara-vatah prakurvan
govindadevah saranam mamastu

With the weight of His youthful handsomeness and the flooding ocean of His spiritual love, He fills the devotees on earth with wonder.  May Sri Govindadeva be my shelter.

7
kalpa-drumadho-mani-mandirantah
sri-yoga-pithamburuhasyaya svam
upasayams tantra-vido pi mantrair
govindadevah saranam mamastu

Chanting mantras, the great devotees learned in the scriptures worship Him as He sits on a spiritual lotus flower in a jewel palace beneath a grove of desire trees.  May Sri Govindadeva be my shelter.

8
mahabhiseka-ksana-sarva-vaso
‘lankrty-anangi-karanocchalantya
sarvanga-bhasakulayams tri-lokim
govindadevah saranam mamastu

Handsome as Kamadeva and dressed and ornamented as if for a coronation, he enchants the inhabitants of the three worlds with the splendour of His body.  May Sri Govindadeva be my shelter.

9
govindadevastakam etad uccaih
pathet tadiyanghri-nivista-dhir yah
tam majjayann eva krpa-prvahair
govindadevah saranam mamastu

Sri Govindadeva plunges in the flowing river of His mercy one who reads aloud this Govindadevastaka, his mind meditating on the Lord’s lotus feet.  May Sri Govindadeva be my shelter.

Sri Gopinathadevastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Gopinatha

1
asye hasyam tatra madhvikam asmin
vamsi tasyam nada-piyusa-sindhuh
tad-vicibhir majjayan bhati gopir
gopinathah pina-vaksa gatir nah

On His mouth is a smile.  In that smile is nectar.  In that nectar is a flute, and in that flute is a nectar ocean of music.  Gopinatha plunges the gopis in the waves of that ocean.  Broad chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

2
sonosnisa-bhraji-mukta-srajodyat-
pinchottamsa-spandanenapi nunam
hrn-netrali vrtti-ratnani muncan
gopinathah pina-vaksa gatir nah

With the movement of the peacock feather in His red crown splendid with pearls and peacock feathers, He robs the jewels of the activities of our hearts and eyes.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

3
bibhrad-vasah pitam ururu-kantya
slistam bhasvat-kinkinikam nitambe
savyabhiri-cumbita-pranta-bahur
gopinathah pina-vaksa gatir nah

The splendour of His broad thighs embraces His yellow dhoti.  Glistening bells decorate His hips.  A gopi kisses His left shoulder.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

4
gunja-mukta-ratna-gangeya-harair
malyaih kanthe lambamanaih kramena
pitodancat-kancukenancitah sri-
gopinatha pina-vaksa gatir nah

He wears yellow garments.  Necklaces of flowers, gold, jewels, pearls, and gunja decorate His neck.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

5
svetosnisah sveta-susloka-dhautah
susveta-srak-dvi-trasah-sveta-bhusah
cumban sarya-mangalaratrike hrd
gopinathah pina-vaksa gatir nah

He wears a white crown, white ornaments, and two or three splendid white garlands.  His fame and purity are splendid and white.  At the auspicious morning and evening aratis He kisses our heart.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

6
srivatsa-sri-kaustubhodbhinna-romnam
varnaih sriman yas caturbhih sadestah
drstah premnaivati-dhanyair ananyair
gopinathah pina-vaksa gatir nah

He is handsome.  He is decorated with the four marks of srivatsa, sri, kaustubha, and hairs standing erect in ecstasy.  The fortunate devotees gaze on Him with pure love.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

7
tapinchah kim hema-valli-yugantah
parsva-dvandvoddyoti-vidyud-ghanah kim
kim va madhye radhayoh syamalendur
gopinatha pina-vaksa gatir nah

Is He a dark tamala tree surrounded by a golden vine?  Is He a dark cloud with blazing lightning at both His sides, or is He a dark moon in the midst of two radha-stars?  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.
Note: One of the 27 celebrated stars is named radha.

8
sri-jahnavya murtiman prema-punjo
dinanathan darsayan svam prasidan
pusnan devalabhya-phela-sudhabhir
gopinatha pina-vaksa gatir nah

He is a personified Ganges of pure love.  He shows mercy to the poor and the shelterless and nourishes them with the nectar remnants of His meals, which cannot be attained even by the demigods.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

9
gopinathasyastakam tusta-cestas
tat-padabja-prema-pusni-bhavisnuh
yo ‘dhite tan-mantu-kotir apasyan
gopinathah pina-vaksa gatir nah

Gopinatha does not see millions of sins of one who, carefully nourishing love for His lotus feet, reads this Gopinathastaka with a happy heart.  Broad-chested Gopinatha is the goal of our lives.

Sri Gokulananda-Govindadevastaka
Eight Payers Glorifying Sri Gokulananda-Govindadeva

1
koti-kandarpa-santarpa-vidhvamsana-
sviya-rupamrtaplavita-ksma-tala
bhakta-lokeksanam saksanam tarsayan
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

Flooding the world with the nectar of Your handsomeness, a million times You drown the happinesses of material love and at every moment increase the devotees thirst to see You with their eyes.  O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You.

2
yasya saurabhya-saulabhya-bhag-gopika
bhagya-lesaya laksmyapi taptam tatah
ninditendivara-srika tasmai muhur
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

Your handsomeness rebukes the blue lotus.  The goddess of fortune performed severe austerities to attain a fragment of the good fortune of the gopis, who easily attained Your fragrance.  O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You.

3
vamsika-kanthayor yah svaras te sacet
tala-ragadiman sruty-anubhrajitah
ka sudha brahma kim ka nu vaikuntha-mud
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

The tala-raga and other melodies sung by Your voice and flute shine in the ear.  What is nectar in comparison?  What is impersonal Brahman?  What is the happiness of Vaikuntha?  O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You.

4
yat-pada-sparsa-madhurya-majjat-kuca
dhanyatam yanti gopyo ramato ‘py alam
yad-yaso-dundubher ghosana sarva-jid
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

The breasts plunged into nectar by the touch of Your feet, the gopis attain a good fortune much greater than the goddess of fortune’s.  The sound of the dundubhi drums of Your fame conquers all.  O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You.

5
yasya phela-lavasvadane patratam
brahma-rudradayo yanti naivanyake
adharam sidhum ete ‘pi vindanti no
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

Brahma, Siva and the other demigods taste the remnants of Your meals.  They do not find nectar in the remnants from any other lips.  O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You.

6
yasya lilamrtam sarvathakarsakam
brahma-saukhyad api svadu sarve jaguh
tat-pramanam svayam vyasasunuh suko
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

Everyone proclaims that the all-attractive nectar of Your pastimes is greater than the impersonal Brahman.  Vyasa’s son Sukadeva Gosvami is a testament to this.  O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You.

7
yat-sad-aisvaryam apy arya-bhaktatmani
dhyatam udyac-camatkaram anandayet
natha tasmai rasambhodhaye kotiso
gokulananda-govinda tubhyam namah

Your six wonderful opulences delight the hearts of the saintly devotees who meditate on them.  O Lord, O ocean of nectar, O Govinda, O Gokulananda, I bow down before You millions of times.

8
gokulananda-govindadevastakam
yah pathen nityam utkanthitas tvat-padoh
prema-sevaptaye so ‘ciran madhuri-
sindhu-majjan-mana vanchitam vindatam

May he who regularly reads this Gokulananda-Govindadevastaka and yearns to attain pure love and service for Your feet find his desire to plunge his heart in the ocean of Your sweetness fulfilled.

Sri Svayam-Bhagavattastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying the Master of Six Opulences

1
sva-janmany aisvaryam balam iha vadhe daitya-vitater
yasah partha-trane yadu-puri maha-sampadam adhat
param jnanam jisnau musalam anu vairagyam anu yo
bhagaih sadbhih purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

May Nanda’s son, who is full of six opulences, who from His very birth was supremely (1) opulent, who displayed supreme (2) strength by killing a multitude of demons, who became supremely (3) famous by protecting Arjuna, who manifested supreme (4) wealth at Dvaraka, the capitol of the Yadus, who spoke supreme transcendental (5) knowledge to Arjuna, and who exhibited supreme (6) renunciation in the Yadus’ fratricidal war, be pleased with me.

2
catur-bahutvam yah svajani-samaye yo mrd-asane
jagat-kotim kuksy-antara-parimitatvam sva-vapusah
dadhi-sphote brahmany atanuta parananta-tanutam
mahaisvaryaih purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

May Nanda’s son, who is full of great opulences, who at the time of His birth had a four-armed form, who once at clay, who revealed millions of universes within His mouth, who broke a yoghurt pot, and who displayed numberless transcendental forms to Brahma, be pleased with me.

3
balam bakyam danta cchadana-varayoh kesini nrge
nrpe bahvor anghreh phanini vapusah kamsa-marutoh
giritre daityesv apy atanuta nijastrasya yad ato
mahau jobhih purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

He employed the strength of His two lips on Putana, the strength of His arms on Kesi and Nrga, the strength of His feet on Kaliya, the strength of His body on Kamsa and Trnavarta, and the strength of His weapons on Banasura and other demons.  May Nanda’s son, who possesses all strength, be pleased with me.

4
Yato datte muktim ripu-vitataye yan nara-janir
vijeta rudrader ap nata-janadhina iti yat
sabhayam draupadya vara-krd ati-pujyo nrpa-makhe
yasobhis tat purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

He possesses all fame because He gives liberation to His enemies, because although He took birth in human society, He defeated Siva and the other demigods, because He is submissive to the humble devotees who offer obeisances to Him, because He gave a benediction to Draupadi in the assembly, and because He was lavishly worshipped in the Rajasuya sacrifice.  May Nanda’s son be pleased with me.

5
asakhyata gopyo vraja-bhuvi mahisyo madu-pure
sutah pradyumnadyah sura-taru-sudharmadi ca dhanam
bahir dvari brahmady api bali-vaham stauti yad atah
sriyam puraih purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

He has numberless gopis in Vraja, numberless queens and sons in Dvaraka, parijata trees, the sudharma assembly house, and other opulences.  Outside His door Brahma and the demigods offer prayers and bring gifts.  May Nanda’s son, who possesses all wealth, be pleased with me.

6
nyadhad gita-ratnam tri-jagad atulam yat priya-sakhe
param tattvam premnoddhava-parama-bhakte ca nigamam
nija-prana-presthasv api rasa-bhrtam gopa-kulajasv
ato jnanaih purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

He gave to a dear friend the jewel Bhagavad-gita, which has no equal in the world.  With love He gave to Uddhava the ultimate truth of the Vedas.  He gave to the saintly gopis, who thought Him more dear than  life, the knowledge of the sweetest nectar.  May Nanda’s son, who possesses all knowledge, be pleased with me.

7
krtagaskam vyadham satanum api vaikuntham anayat
mamtvasyaikagran api parijanan hanta vijahau
yad apy ete srutya dhruva-tanutayoktas tad api ha
sva-vairagyaih purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanaya

He brought an offensive hunter to Vaikuntha in his own body.  He abandoned His own proud relatives, even though the sruti declares that they were already liberated and had eternal spiritual bodies.  May Nanda’s son, who possesses all renunciation, be pleased with me.

8
ajatvam janmitvam ratir aratiteharahitata
salilatvam vyaptih parimitir ahanta-mamatayoh
pade tyagatyagav ubhayam api nityam sad urari-
karotisah purnah sa bhavatu mude nanda-tanayah

Although He is unborn, He takes birth.  Although He is affectionate, He is aloof from everything.  Although He enjoys pastimes, he is inactive.  He is both all-pervading and limited.  He possesses and does not possess ego and possessiveness.  May Nanda’s son, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is full of all opulences, be pleased with me.

9
samudyat-sandeha-jvara-sata-haram bhesaja-varam
jano yah seveta prathita-bhagavattastakam idam
tad-aisvarya-svadaih sva-dhiyam ati-velam sarasayan
labhetasau tasya priya-parijananugya-padavim

He who serves this Bhagavattastaka, which is an excellent medicine to remove the hundred fevers of doubt, and becomes overwhelmed with happiness by tasting in his mind the sweetness of the Lord’s opulences, enters the path that leads to the Lord’s personal association.

Sri Jagan-mohanastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Jagan-mohana

1
gunjavali-vesthita-citra-puspa-
cuda-valan-manjula-navya-pincham
gorocana-caru-tamala-patram
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

On His crown of gunja and colourful flowers a peacock feather moves to and fro.  He wears handsome gorocana tilaka.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

2
bhru-valganonmadita-gopanari-
kataksa-banavali-viddha-netram
nasagra-rajan-mani-caru-muktam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

Gopis maddened by the movements of His eyebrows pierce His eyes with arrows of sidelong glances.  The tip of His nose is decorated with a splendid jewel and a beautiful pearl.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

3
alola-vakralaka-kanti-cumbi-
ganda-sthala-pronnata-caru-hasyam
vama-pragandoccala-kundalantam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

The splendour of His moving locks of curly hair kisses the charming smile on His cheeks.  The tips of His swaying earrings touch His handsome shoulders.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

4
bandhuka-bimba-dyuti-nindi-kuncat-
prantadhara-bhrajita-venu-vaktram
kincit-tirascina-sirodhibhatam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

His neck tilted, He holds a glistening flute to His bent lips, which rebuke the splendour of the bimba fruit and bandhuka flower.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

5
akuntha-rekha-traya-raji-kantha-
khelat-svarali-sruti-raga-rajim
vaksah-sphurat-kaustubham unnatamsam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

Three lines clearly mark His splendid neck as He sings melodies delightful to the ear.  His chest is decorated with a glittering Kaustubha jewel, and His shoulders are broad.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

6
ajanu-rajad-valayangadanci-
smarargalakara-suvrtta-bahum
anargha-mukta-mani-puspa-malam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

Reaching to His knees, and decorated with glistening bracelets and armlets, His handsome bending arms are like Kamadeva’s great wooden bolts.  He is decorated with garlands of priceless pearls, jewels, and  flowers.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

7
svasaijad-asvattha-dalabha-tunda-
madhyastha-romavali-ramya-rekham
pitambaram manjula-kinkinikam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

Marked with a charming line of hairs, His abdomen is like a banyan leaf that moves as He breathes.  He is dressed in yellow garments, and His ankle-bells tinkle melodiously.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

8
vyayata-padam mani-nupuradhyam
syaman tribhangam sura-sakhi-mule
sri-radhaya sardham udara-lilam
vande jagan-mohanam ista-devam

Decorated with jewel anklets, one foot is placed behind the other.  His complexion is dark.  His form bends in three places.  He enjoys pastimes with Sri radha under a desire tree.  I bow down before Jagan-mohana, the Lord whom I worship.

9
srimaj-jagan-mohana-devam etat
padyastakena smarato janasya
prema bhaved yena tad-andhri-saksat-
sevamrtenaiva nimajjanam syat

May he who by reading these eight verses remembers Sriman Jagan-mohana-deva attain pure love of God.  May he become plunged into the nectar of direct service to the Lord’s feet.

Anuraga-valli
The Vine of Love

1
deharbudani bhagavan yugapat prayaccha
vaktrabudani ca pnah pratideham eva
jihvarbudani krpaya prativaktram eva
nrtyantu tesu tava matha gunarbudani

Please give me millions of bodies and millions of mouths in each body.  By your mercy place millions of tongues in each mouth.  O Lord, may Your millions of transcendental qualities dance on those tongues.

2
kim atmana yatra na deha-kotyo
dehena kim yatra na vaktra-kotyah
vaktrena kim yatra na koti-jihvah
kim jihvaya yatra na nama-kotyah

What is the use of a soul that does not have millions of bodies?  What is the use of a body that does not have millions of mouths?  What is the use of a mouth that does not have millions of tongues?  What is the use of a tongue that does not chant Your millions of names?

3
atmastu nityam sata-deha-varti
dehas tu nathastu sahasra-vaktrah
vaktram sada rajatu laksa-jihvam
grnatu jihva tava nama-kotim

O Lord, may I perpetually have hundreds of bodies and may each body have thousands of mouths.  May each mouth have millions of tongues, and may each tongue chant millions of Your Holy Names.

4
yada tada madhava yatra yatra
gayanti ye ye tava nama-lilah
tatraiva karnayuta-dharyamanas
tas te sudha nityam aham dhayani

O Madhava, whenever, wherever, or whoever chants Your names and pastimes, there may I with millions of ears eternally drink Your nectar.

5
karnayutasyaiva bhavantu laksa-
kotyo rasajna bhagavams tadaiva
yenaiva lilah srnavani nityam
tenaiva gayani tatah sukham me

May I have millions of ears and millions upon millions of tongues.  Then, O Lord, I will eternally and happily hear and chant Your pastimes.

6
karnayutasyeksana-kotir asya
krt-kotir asya rasanarbudam syat
srutvaiva drstva tava rupa-sindhum
alingya madhuryam aho dhayani

May I have millions of ears, millions of eyes, millions of hearts and minds, and millions of tongues.  Hearing about, seeing, and embracing the ocean of Your handsomeness, I will drink its sweetness.

7
netrarbudasyaiva bhavantu karna-
nasa-rasajna hrdayarbudam va
saundarya-sausvarya-sugandha-pura-
madhurya-samslesa-rasanubhutyai

May I have millions of eyes, ears, noses, tongues and chests, so that I may continually taste the nectar of Your handsomeness, Your sweet sounds, sweet fragrance, and Your embrace.

8
tvat-parsva-gatyai pada-kotir astu
sevam vidhatum mama hasta-kotih
tam siksitum syad api buddhi-kotir
etan varan me bhagavan prayaccha

May I have millions of feet to go to Your side.  May I have millions of hands to serve You.  May I have millions of intelligences to teach that service.  O Lord, please grant me these boons.

Sri Vrndadevy-astaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Vrnda-devi

1
gangeya-campeya-tadid-vinindi-
rocih-pravaha-snapitatma-vrnde
bandhuka-bandhu-dyuti-divya-vaso
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

You are bathed by streams of splendour that rebuke gold, lightning, and the campaka flower.  Your splendid garments are friend to the bandhuka flower.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

2
bimbadharoditvara-manda-hasya-
nasagra-mukta-dyuti-dipitasye
vicitra-ratnabharana-sriyadhye
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

Your face is splendid with a pearl decorating the tip of Your nose and a wonderful gentle smile on your bimba-fruit lips.  You are decorated with wonderful jewel ornaments.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

3
samasta-vaikuntha-siromanau sri-
krsnasya vrndavana-dhanya-dhamni
dattadhikare vrsabhanu-putrya
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

Vrsabhanu’s daughter Radha made you guardian of Krsna’s opulent and auspicious abode of Vrndavana, the crest jewel of all Vaikuntha planets.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

4
tvad-ajnaya pallava-puspa-bhrnga-
mrgadibhir madhava-keli-kunjah
madhv-adibhir bhanti vibhusyamana
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

By Your order the groves where Madhava enjoys pastimes are splendidly decorated with blossoming flowers, bumble-bees, deer, honey and other things.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

5
tvadiya-dutyena nikunja-yunor
atyutkayoh keli-vilasa-siddhih
tvat-saubhagam kena nirucyatam tad
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

Because you became their messenger the eager and youthful divine couple enjoyed the perfection of transcendental pastimes in the forest.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

6
rasabhilaso vasatis ca vrnda-
vane tvad-isanghra-saroja-seva
labhya ca pumsam krpaya tavaiva
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

By your mercy the people attain residence in Vrndavana, the desire to serve your masters’ lotus feet, and the desire to assist in the rasa dance.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

7
tvam kirtyase satvata-tantra-vidbhir
lilabhidhana kila krsna-saktih
tavaiva murtis tulasi nr-loke
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

They who are learned in the Satvata-tantra glorify you.  You are Krsna’s pastime-potency.  The tulasi plant is your form in the world of men.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

8
bhaktya vihina aparadha-laksaih
ksiptas ca kamadi-taranga-madhye
krpamayi tvam saranam prapanna
vrnde namas te caranaravindam

O merciful one, they who have no devotion and they whom millions of offenses have thrown into the waves of lust and other vices take shelter of you.  O Vrnda, I bow to your lotus feet.

9
vrndastakam yah srnuyat pathed va
vrndavanadhisa-padabja-bhrngah
sa prapya vrndavana-nitya-vasam
tat-prema-sevam labhate krtarthah

A person who is like a bumble bee at the lotus feet of Vrndavana’s king and queen, and who reads or hears this Vrndastaka, will eternally reside in Vrndavana and attain loving service to the divine couple.

Sri Nandisvarastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Nandisvara Hill

1
saksan mahattama-mahaghana-cid-vilasa-
punjah svayam sikhari-sekharatam upetah
yatresvarah sa khalu nandati yena veti
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

May Nandisvara Hill, where the Supreme Personality of Godhead, crowned with a peacock feather and splendid as a monsoon cloud, enjoyed pastimes, delight me.

2
brahmanda-vapra-gata-loka-nikaya-sasya-
santarpi-krsna-caritamrta-nirjharadhyah
parjanya-santati-sukhaspada-purvako yo
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

May Nandisvara Hill, rich with the nectar rivers of Krsna’s pastimes that please the grass of the living entities in the world, and previously the place of happiness for a great monsoon cloud, delight me.

3
yat-saubhagam bhagavata dharani-bhrtapi
na prapyate sura-girih sa hi ko varakah
nandah svayam vasati yatra sa-putra-daro
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

With his son and wife King Nanda lived on Nandisvara Hill.  The good-fortune of Nandisvara Hill was never attained by any other mountain.  What is tiny Mount Meru in comparison to it?  May Nandisvara Hill delight me.

4
yatra vrajadhipa-purapratima-prakasa-
prasada-murdha-kalasopari-nrtya-rangi
barhiksyate bhuvi jaya-dhvaya-ketu-bhuto
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

May Nandisvara Hill, where the king of Vraja had his capitol of splendid palaces with spires and domes where a peacock could be seen happily dancing among the colourful victory flags, delight me.

5
yac-chrnga-sangata-sugandha-siladhirudhah
krsnah sa-trsna-nayanah parito vrajabjam
alokate dvisad-udara-dalatavis ta
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

Krsna sometimes climbs its aromatic summit and sits on a rock, gazing out with thirsty eyes at the twelve forests that are the great petals of the Vrajabhumi lotus spread beneath Him.  May Nandisvara Hill delight me.

6
jigye yadiya-tat-raji-saroja-raji-
saurabhya-manjula-saro-jala-sikarena
trailokya-varti-vara-tirtha-yaso rasaughair
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

May Nandisvara Hill, which by sprinkling the nectar waters of it’s lakes fragrant with lotus flowers defeats the glory of the most exalted holy places in the three worlds, delight me.

7
yat-tira-sangi-pavanair abhimrsyamanah
syuh pavana api janah sva-dasam paresam
sa pavanakhya-sarasi yad-upatyakayam
nandisvarah sa mad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

May Nandisvarah Hill, which has at its base a lake named Pavana that purifies and liberates all its touches with the purifying breeze from its shore, delight me.

8
krsnakhyam asti mahad-ujjvala-nila-ratnam
sute tadeva vasu tat sva-bhuvaiva drstam
tal labhyate sukrtinaiva yadiya-sanau
nandisvarah samad-amanda-mudam dadhatu

May Nandisvara Hill, which has at its peak a great and splendid sapphire treasure named Krsna, which was seen by the demigod Brahma, and which may be gotten by the most pious person, delight me.

9
durvasana-sata-vrto pi bhavat-prayatnah
padyastakam pathati yah sikharisa tubhyam
krsnanghri-padya-rasa eva sada sa-trsnam
etam janam kuru guru-pranayam dadhanam

O Nandisvara Hill, O king of mountains, please be kind to they who try to glorify you by reading these prayers.  Even if such readers are infested with hundreds of sinful desires, please transform them into great devotees, full of devotion for their spiritual master, and thirsty for the nectar of Krsna’s lotus feet.

Sri Vrndavanastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Sri Vrndavana

1
na yoga-siddhir na mamastu mokso
vaikuntha-loke pi na parsadatvam
premapi na syad iti cet taram tu
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

Let me not have mystic powers, impersonal liberation, the Lord’s association in Vaikuntha, or even pure love for Him, if instead of them I may reside in Vrndavana.

2
tarnam janur yatra vidhir yayace
sad-bhakta-cudamanir uddhavo pi
viksyvaiva madhurya-dhuram tad asmin
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

When Brahma and Uddhava, the crest jewels of devotees, saw the intense sweetness here, they begged to take birth here even as a blade of grass.  For this reason I pray to reside in Vrndavana.

3
kim te krtam hanta tapah ksititi
gopyo pi bhume stuvate sma kirtim
yenaiva krsnanghri-padankite smin
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

Here the gopis glorified the earth, saying: “O Earth, what austerities have you done, so that your surface is now marked with Krsna’s footprints?”  May I reside in Vrndavana.

4
gopangana-lampatataiva yatra
yasyam rasah purnatamatvam apa
yato raso vai sa iti srutis tan
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

May I reside in Vrndavana where, because the Vedas say raso vai sah (The Supreme Personality of Godhead is sweetness), transcendental sweetness attained its highest perfection in the gopis’ passionate love.

5
bhandira-govardhana-rasa-pithais
tri-simake yojana-pancakena
mite vibhutvad amite pi casmin
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

Although only five yojanas in circumference, bounded by Bhandiravana, Govardhana Hill and the rasa-dance arena, it is unlimited in transcendental opulence.  May I reside in Vrndavana.

6
yatradhipatyam vrsabhanu-putrya
yenodayet prema-sukham jananam
yasmin mamasa balavat yato smin
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

Because Vrsabhanu’s daughter is the queen, and because here the happiness of pure love of God rises, I yearn to live here.  I pray: May I reside in Vrndavana.

7
yasmin maha-rasa-vilasa-lila
na prapa yam srir api sa tapobhih
tatrollasan-manju-nikunja-punje
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

Even by performing many austerities goddess Laksmi could not enter the great rasa-dance pastime here.  May I reside in the splendidly beautiful groves of Vrndavana.

8
sada ruru-nyanku-mukha visankam
khelanti kujanti pikali kirah
sikhandino yatra natanti tasmin
mamastu vrndavana eva vasah

May I reside in Vrndavana, where the ruru and nyanku deer fearlessly play, the cuckoos, bumblebees, and parrots sing, and the peacocks dance.

9
vrndavanasyastakam etad uccaih
pathanti ye niscala-buddhayas te
vrndavanesanghri-saroja-sevam
saksat labhante januso ‘nta eva

They who with great concentration read aloud this Vrndavanastaka, at the end of this life attain direct service to the lotus feet of Vrndavana’s master.

Sri Govardhanastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Govardhana Hill

1
krsna-prasadena samasta-saila-
samrajyam apnoti ca vairino pi
sakrasya yah prapa balim sa saksad
govardhano me disatam abhistam

May Govardhana Hill, which by Krsna’s mercy became the king of all mountains and received the respectful tribute of its arch-enemy Indra, fulfil my desire.

2
sva-prestha-hastambuja-saukumarya-
sukhanubhuter ati-bhumi-vrtteh
mahendra-vajrahatim apy ahanan
govardhano me disatam abhistam

As it was held above the earth it became so filled with happiness by experiencing the softness of its beloved Krsna’s lotus hand it did not even know it was being struck by Indra’s thunderbolt.  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

3
yatraiva krsno vrsabhanu-putrya
danam grhitum kalaham vitene
sruteh sprha yatra mahaty atah sri-
govardhano me disatam abhistam

Trying to collect a toll, Krsna quarrelled there with King Vrsabhanu’s daughter.  The personified Vedas yearn to listen to that quarrel.  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

4
snatva sarah svasu samira-hasti
yatraiva nipadi-paraga-dhulih
alolayan khetali caru sa sri-
govardhano me disatam abhistam

Bathing in a nearby lake, the elephant of a pleasant breeze, covered with pollen of kadamba and other flowers, gracefully plays there.  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

5
kasturikabhih sayitam kim atrety
uham prabhoh svasya muhur vitanvan
naisargika-sviya-sila-sugandhair
govardhano me disatam abhistam

How is it that sweet fragrance of the musk deer and the various natural scents there make the Lord so calm and relaxed?  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

6
vamsa-pratidhvany-anusara-vartma
didrksavo yatra harim harinyah
yantyo labhante na hi vismitah sa
govardhano me disatam abhistam

Searching there for Lord Hari on the path of His flute music, the astonished deer do not find Him.  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

7
yatraiva gangam anu navi radham
arohya madhye tu nimagna-naukah
krsno hi radhanugalo babhau sa
govardhano me disatam abhistam

As the divine couple travelled on the Ganges there the boat began to sink in the middle.  Krsna was splendidly handsome as Radha clung to his neck.  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

8
vina-bhavet kim hari-dasa-varya-
padasrayam bhaktir atah srayami
yam eva saprema nijesayoh sri-
govardhano me disatam abhistam

Without taking shelter of the feet of the hill that is the best of Lord Hari’s servants and full of love for the divine king and queen, how is it possible to attain pure devotional service?  May Govardhana Hill fulfil my desire.

9
etat pathed yo hari-dada-varya-
mahanubhavastakam ardra-cetah
sri-radhika-madhavayoh padab ja-
dasyam sa vinded acirena saksat

May the reader of these eight verses glorifying Lord Hari’s greatest servant, his heart melting with pure love, quickly attain direct service to the lotus feet of Sri Sri Radha-Madhava.

Sri Krsna-kundastaka
Eight Prayers Glorifying Syama-kunda

1
kim tapas cakara tirtha-laksam aksayam pura
suprasidati sma krsna eva sad varam yatah
yatra vasam apa sadhu tat samastha-durlabhe
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

What austerities did the hundreds of thousands of eternal holy places perform to please Krsna and obtain from Him the benediction to live at Krsna-kunda, the rarest holy place?  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda.

2
yady arista-danavo pi danado maha-nidher
asmad-ad-durmatibhya ity aho vasiyate
yo mrti-cchalena yatra muktim adbhutam vyadhat
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

If even the Arista demon was able to enter Krsna-kunda, then crooked hearted persons such as us may also be able to live there.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda which, on the pretext of death, grants a wonderful form of liberation.

3
Go-vadhasya niskrtis triloka-tirtha-kotibhi
radhayety avadi tena ta harih samahvayat
yatra parsni-ghata-je mamajja ca svayam muda
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

When Radha said, “To atone for killing a cow (Aristasura) You must visit millions of holy places in the three worlds”, Krsna called all the holy places and then happily bathed in the lake that sprang from His heel.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda.

4
kvapi papa-nasa eva karma-bandha-bandhanad
brahma-saukhyam eva visnuloka-vasita kvacit
prema-ratnam atyayatnam eva yatra labhyate
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

At some holy places one becomes free from all sins, at others one becomes free from the bondage of karma, at others one attains Brahman happiness and at others one attains residence in Visnuloka.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda, where without any effort one attains the jewel of pure love for Krsna.

5
phulla-madhavi-rasala-nipa-kunja-mandale
bhrnga-koka-kokiladi-kakali yad ancati
asta-yamikavitarka-koti-bheda-saurabham
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

Krsna-kunda is surrounded by groves of mango, kadamba and other trees with many madhavis and other vines.  There is the music of cakravakas, cuckoos and bees.  At night there are millions of inconceivable sweet fragrances.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda.

6
dola-keli-citra-rasa-nrtya-giti-vadanair
nihnava-prasuna-yuddha-sidhu-pana-kautukaih
yatra khelatah kisora-sekharau sahalibhis
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

With gopi friends the two crowns of youth enjoyed many pastimes there.  They rode on a swing, danced wonderful rasa-dances, sang, played instrumental music, and talked.  In a secluded place They eagerly drank the nectar of a flower-battle.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda.

7
divya-ratna-nirmitavatara-sara-sausthavais
chatrika viraji caru kuttima-prabha-bharaih
sarva-loka-locanati-dhanyata yato bhavet
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

With the beauty of its glistening jewel shores and the splendour of its canopies and mosaic pavements it brings auspiciousness to all eyes.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda.

8
mathuram vikunthato ‘pi janma-dhama durlabham
vasakananam tato pi panina dhrto girih
sri-hares tato pi yat param saro ti-pavanam
tatra krsna-kunda eva samsthitih stutastu nah

The district of Mathura, Krsna’s birthplace, is more sacred and difficult to attain then Vaikuntha.  The forest where He lived is more sacred still, and the hill lifted by His hand is more sacred than that.  More sacred than that is Lord Hari’s very purifying lake nearby.  Let us glorify residence at Krsna-kunda.

9
krsna-kunda-tira-vasa-sadhakam pathed idam
yo stakam dhiyam nimajya keli-kunja-rajitoh
radhika-girindradharinoh padambu jesu sa
prema-dasyam eva sighram apnuyad anamayam

May he who reads these eight verses, which convince one to reside at the shore of Krsna-kunda, and who also plunges his mind in the lotus flowers of Sri Sri Radha-Giridhari’s feet, quickly attain sincere love for Them.