The Divine Significance of Bhandirvan
Bhandirvan is counted among the 137 sacred forests of Braj, each of which holds stories and events from the leelas (divine plays) of Shri Krishna. What sets Bhandirvan apart is its intimate connection with Radha Krishna's unison, The site holds great spiritual significance as it is believed to be the place where Lord Brahma solemnized the celestial marriage of Radha and Krishna, as well as several other spiritually significant occurrences:
The Eternal Love Story - A Glimpse into the Divine Pastime
Legend has it that Baba Nand once took little Krishna to the forests of Bhandirvan for grazing cows. While resting under the shade of a large banyan tree, an unexpected storm arose, creating darkness and fear. Baby Krishna clung to Nand Baba, pretending to be afraid.
Amidst this celestial play, a radiant figure appeared from the storm — it was none other than Radha Rani. Realizing the divine nature of this moment, Nand Baba handed Krishna over to her with utmost reverence, acknowledging her to be more dear than Goddess Lakshmi to the Lord himself. He instructed her to return the infant to Yashoda Maa after their time together, and took an oath to keep this divine event a secret.
As Radha Rani held baby Krishna close, a celestial palace manifested before her, glittering with divine jewels and gems. As she entered, baby Krishna transformed into his youthful, godly form — adorned with a crown, peacock feather, and flute.
Radha was overwhelmed with emotions, but Krishna assured her of his eternal love, saying, "You are my soul, my eternal companion." Their conversation was filled with devotion and longing.
At that divine moment, Lord Brahma descended and respectfully performed their celestial marriage. The ceremony was simple yet majestic, called Gandharva Vivah, performed without rituals but full of soul and divine witness.
After the marriage, Radha and Krishna indulged in joyful, loving pastimes in the forest, until Krishna gently turned back into his infant form. A divine voice reassured Radha:
"These pastimes will continue eternally. You and Krishna shall return again and again to relive this divine love."
Radha then returned baby Krishna to Yashoda in Gokul — but from that day on, she would visit Bhandirvan every day, immersing herself in the divine love and memories of her time with Krishna.
Phulera Dooj
The divine wedding of Radha and Krishna is closely associated with the festival of Phulera Dooj, a day considered highly auspicious for marriages. Celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight in the month of Phalguna, Phulera Dooj marks a moment when the lines between the mortal and the divine blur in the vibrant hues of love.
Did Radha and Krishna get married on Phulera Dooj?
According to tradition, Phulera Dooj is believed to be the day when Lord Brahma officiated the celestial wedding of Radha and Krishna. While their marriage is not mentioned in all scriptures, many devotees celebrate this day as the symbolic union of divine love, making it especially sacred for couples and those seeking blessings for marriage.
Historical Context:
Ancient scriptures such as the Brahma Vaivarta Purana and the Garga Samhita reference the divine marriage of Radha and Krishna taking place in Bhandirvan, highlighting its deep spiritual and mythological significance.
What is Bhandirvan famous for?
Lord Radha Krishna's Wedding, Brahma as Priest, Banyan Tree, Temple and Rituals, Sacred Sites, Venu Kupa, Spiritual Atmosphere, The Sacred Forest of Radha Krishna, Part of Braj's 12 Forests
Famous Temples and Tourist Places in Bhandirvan
Banyan Tree
Krishna Applying Vermilion to Radha ji
Venu Kup
Vamshivata
Tourist Attractions and Holy Places in Bhandirvan, Vrindavan
Vanshi Vat
Located near Bhandirvan, Vanshiat is a revered and mystical spot in Braj Bhoomi. The name “Vanshi Vat” translates to “the Banyan Tree of the Flute”, and this sacred tree holds immense significance in the divine pastimes of Shri Krishna.
A Place Where Krishna Played His Flute for Radha and the Gopis
It is believed that this is the very spot where Lord Krishna would sit beneath the ancient banyan tree and play his celestial flute (vanshi), casting a magical spell across the forests of Vrindavan. The melodious notes of his flute would reach Radha Rani and the gopis, who would leave all worldly duties and rush to him, captivated by his divine call.
This spontaneous gathering of Radha and the gopis, known as the Maha Raas, symbolizes the soul’s eternal longing to unite with the Supreme. Vanshi Vat thus represents the purest form of love and devotion – a love beyond time, ego, and separation.
Location and How to Reach Bhandirvan and Vanshivat
From Vrindavan: 10 km by road (private cab, auto-rickshaw, or tempo traveller. From Mathura: Approx. 25 km. Nearby Destinations: Vrindavan, Gokul, Nandgaon, Barsana, and Govardhan
Why Visit Bhandirvan?
Visiting Bhandirvan is not just a religious pilgrimage — it's a spiritual journey into divine love. Devotees feel a special energy here, a sense of eternal connection with Radha Krishna's leelas. It’s a place of bhakti, peace, and timeless romance, untouched by the noise of the modern world.
Krishna: Dresses, Tulasi Mala and Paintings
