Rupotsava, an annual celebration dedicated to Srila Rupa Gosvami, unfolded its enchanting festivities at the Vrindavan Institute of Higher Education (VIHE) this year. Commencing on the 25th of August and concluding on the 28th, the event marked the disappearance day of Srila Rupa Gosvami.
The inaugural day dawned with the resonating melody of mangala arati at 5:15 a.m. As the VIHE staff and students formed a harmonious harinama team, the procession wound along the Vrndavana parikrama path towards the Sri Sri Radha Damodara temple. Entering through a side door beside the temple’s official opening, it felt like a secret journey to bask in the presence of Srila Rupa Gosvami. The ensuing kirtana, adorned with morning ragas, transcended into a serene atmosphere, captivating devotees in the essence of the holy name.
The VIHE pujari team gave heartfelt service, offering 1008 besan laddoos, garlands, bead bags, Harinama cadar, and arati to Srila Rupa Gosvami.
The devotees then shifted their focus to Sri Sri Radha Damodara, accompanied by an ecstatic kirtana. Curtains unveiling the deities marked the pinnacle, prompting jubilant dancing and circumambulation by devotees.
The second day ushered in Srila Rupa Gosvami’s ceremonial welcome at the VIHE assembly hall. A procession, marked by petals showering upon the revered acarya, set the tone. The hall, adorned by life-sized portraits and depictions of the sada gosvamis, immersed devotees in the festival spirit. The day unfolded with enlightening kathas, unraveling the profound contributions of Srila Rupa Gosvami.
The Rupa Map frame was a poignant highlight, tracing Srila Rupa’s life journey. The devotees embarked on a visual exploration, connecting with the significant places of Srila Rupa’s pastimes. HH Bhakti Dhira Damodara Svami Maharaj added depth by shedding light on Srila Rupa Gosvami’s humility.
As Srila Rupa Gosvami was honored with bhogas, a procession led him back to the VIHE temple, resonating with the bittersweet melody of ‘je anilo prema dhana.’ The event, broadcast live on YouTube, ensured a broader audience glimpsed into the Rupotsava celebration.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/celebrating-rupotsava-2023-a-cherished-tradition-at-the-vihe-continues-to-bless-devotees/
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