Garg Samhita-Nanda's joy and celebration in vraja

Chapter 12: Nanda’s Joy and the Celebration in Vraja

After receiving the blessed news of his son’s birth, king Nanda was filled with boundless joy. He immediately invited learned brahmanas to perform auspicious ceremonies and offer sacred blessings. Together with Yashoda and Rohini, he offered dakshina with full devotion and gratitude.

As sage Narada narrated:

"When the gopis heard of the wonderful birth of King Nanda’s son, they left all their household duties behind. Their hearts, minds, and limbs were flooded with ecstatic joy. Carrying gifts, they rushed to the palace of the king of Vraja to offer their blessings."

With love in their eyes and praises on their lips, they congratulated Nanda and Yashoda and showered heartfelt blessings on the lotus-eyed, divine child.

Even the celestial beings were drawn to this miraculous event. The demigods arrived at Nanda’s home, sang the glories of Lord Krishna offered their obeisances, and then returned to their abodes, filled with reverence.

Author's view

The Garga Samhita beautifully captures the divine celebration of Krishna’s birth. The scene overflows with love — not just joy, but the kind that only comes after a long wait, after countless lifetimes of yearning.

The gopis of Gokul dance with boundless bliss, their hearts overflowing with the joy of meeting their beloved, Lord Krishna. As I read their story, a quiet desire arises within me — to feel even a drop of that sacred happiness. But I know, with humility, that my devotion is still far from theirs.

“To reach that level of bhakti, one must pass through many tests and lifetimes.”

And so, I sit in peace, content to read and reflect. Their love becomes my inspiration, their joy — a glimpse into what divine love can be.

Have you ever had a moment when your heart overflowed with emotion in connection with the Divine? If yes, I would love to hear your story.