Rama and Laxman of Punjab–Haryana Padayatra
By Bhakta Saiprasad Gorde (Padayatra research team)
From the title you might think, “Who are these unique padayatris?” They are none other than the oxen who are serving Sri Sri Nitai-Gaurasundara and acting as the friends of padayatris.
From scriptures to ancient civilizations, cattle have held a significant place in human life. In India, the govansh is treated with reverence—cows as mothers and bulls celebrated through festivals like Pola for their hard work in cultivation.
Beyond farming, oxen have always rendered sacred service, from Lord Shiva’s Nandi to Sri Sri Nitai-Gaurasundara’s Rama and Shyam. In the purport to Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.16.18, Srila Prabhupada notes:
“The bull is the emblem of the moral principle, and the cow is the representative of the earth. When the bull and the cow are in a joyful mood, it is to be understood that the people of the world are also in a joyful mood.”
In padayatra, these oxen carry the bullock carts, pulling the yoke with dedication. Historically, animals served unique travel needs, but Srila Prabhupada specifically championed bullock carts for preaching to avoid the costly breakdowns and distractions of modern buses while connecting deeply with traditional village culture.
Guided by Srila Prabhupada’s vision, Lokanath Maharaja inaugurated this journey on Radhastami (12 September 1976). Today, teams across Maharashtra, Utkala, Punjab-Haryana, Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Nepal continue this tradition, lovingly feeding, cleaning, and caring for these devoted animals.
These oxen are great souls performing lifelong devotional service. For instance, Rama and Shyam of the Maharashtra Padayatra—named by Lokanath Maharaja—have inspired many pastimes, including Shyam’s safe return after going missing for 21 days and their presence at the May 2024 Rukmini Dwadashi festival at ISKCON Amravati.
As devotees, let us carry deep compassion, gratitude, and love for all living beings (jivas) and offer our humble obeisances to these unique padayatris.
Padayatra ki jai! Srila Prabhupada ki jai!
Comments