The Blessed Devotees of Krishna

One day, near the banks of the Yamuna River, a group of cowherd boys was grazing cows in a lush garden. As time passed, hunger began to trouble them deeply. They went to Lord Krishna and Balarama and said, 'Prabhu, we are very hungry. Please find a way to satisfy our hunger.'

Lord Krishna smiled and said, 'Go to the nearby Brahmins who are performing yajna. Ask them for some food.'

The boys, full of hope, went to the Brahmins and humbly requested food. However, the Brahmins, being preoccupied with their rituals and desirous of heavenly rewards, ignored the boys' plea. Disheartened, the boys returned to Krishna and narrated their experience.

Krishna, ever compassionate, said, 'Do not lose heart. Go to the wives of those Brahmins and ask them for food in my name. Mention that I am here.'

The boys followed Krishna's instructions and approached the Brahmins' wives. Upon hearing the name of Lord Krishna, their hearts filled with joy and devotion. These noble women had always longed for Krishna’s darshan. They eagerly gathered a variety of delicious food and hurried to the spot where Krishna and Balarama were seated.

When they reached, they beheld Krishna, radiating divine charm. Overcome with bliss, they offered the food and prostrated before him. Krishna welcomed them warmly and said, 'O fortunate ones, I am pleased with your devotion. Please take a seat and let me know how I can serve you. Your hearts, filled with love and longing, have brought you here, and that is truly commendable. Wise individuals understand that there is no one dearer thanParamatma, who is the source of all joy and love. Everything in this world - whether life, mind, body, family, wealth, or relationships- derives its sweetness from the connection with me. Therefore, those who recognize this truth naturally offer their hearts to me.'

He then continued, 'But now, having seen me, it is time for you to return to your homes. Your husbands, who are engaged in the sacrifice, will complete it only with your support. Go back and fulfill your duties.'

However, the Brahmins’ wives, overwhelmed by their love for Krishna, pleaded, 'O Lord, we cannot leave your feet. Our husbands will not accept us now, for we have left their rituals in between. Let us stay with you.'

Krishna consoled them with a gentle smile, saying, 'Dear ones, do not worry. Your devotion has purified you. Your husbands, family, and even society will honor you because your hearts are now one with me. Your connection to me transcends all worldly ties. Go back, continue your duties, and keep your minds fixed on me. In no time, you will attain me completely.'

Reassured by Krishna’s words, the women felt a deep sense of fulfillment. They returned to the yajna, carrying Krishna’s blessings in their hearts. Their husbands, upon realizing the divine connection their wives had established with the Lord, welcomed them back with reverence.

Lessons:

1. The Lord is easily attained by those who approach him with pure and selfless love.
2. God’s grace is available to all, irrespective of gender, caste, or societal status, as long as devotion is sincere.
3. Devotion doesn’t mean abandoning responsibilities; rather, it means performing them with the Lord in one’s heart.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi