One of my most favorite places in Sri Govardhan is Kusum Sarovar, a sacred spot where Sri Sri Radha and Krishna eternally reside and continue their transcendental pastimes.
Kusum Sarovar serves as a timeless reminder of the Supreme Lordship of Sri Sri Radha and Madhava, transporting devotees into the spiritual worlds beyond material time and space.
The Playful Pastime at Kusum Sarovar
On one occasion, Krishna, knowing that Sri mati Radharani and the gopis were coming to Kusum Sarovar to gather flowers, decided to come there in a playful way. Disguising Himself as a gardener or gatekeeper (Mali),Lord Sri Krishna blocked their entry to the garden. He mischievously came and stopped them saying: “These flowers belong to me! You just cannot take them from here. The gopis, led by Srimati Radharani, argued and challenged Sri Krishna.
Sri Mati Radharani, in a tone of defiance, asked, “Who are you to stop me from taking flowers?”
Krishna, maintaining His disguise, replied, “I am Vanamali, the caretaker of this garden.” A lively and playful argument ensued.
Supreme Lord Sri Krishna attempted to snatch flowers from Radharani’s hands, leading to a delightful tussle. In the commotion, some flowers fell to the ground.
As Krishna bent down to pick them up, Radharani noticed His flute peeking out from under His disguise. With a knowing smile, Radharani exclaimed, “He is not Vanamali; He is Vanbihari (master of the forest)!”
Krishna’s disguise was uncovered, and the gopis burst into laughter. Their playful exchanges were filled with wit, affection, and divine love.
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