NKD Community’s Divine Pushkar Yatra — A Journey of Gratitude and Devotion
On the 6th and 7th of September, the Nitya Krishna Das (NKD) community under the guidance of HG Rukmini Jeevan Prabhuji embarked on a sacred journey to Pushkar, Rajasthan, to participate in the annual memorial yatra of His Holiness Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj. The yatra was not merely a pilgrimage but a heartfelt expression of gratitude, devotion, and spiritual unity among devotees.
A Pilgrimage to the Abode of Lord Brahma
Pushkar holds a very special place in the hearts of devotees. It is believed that the lotus flower from the hands of Lord Vishnu fell here, giving birth to the sacred Pushkar Lake. It is also the place where Lord Brahma performed great austerities and yajnas before commencing the act of creation. This divine land is further sanctified by the visits of Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama, adding to its transcendental glory.
For followers of the ISKCON disciplic succession, Pushkar holds deep significance, as the paramparā begins with Lord Brahma, the first spiritual master of our line.
Visits to the Holy Temples
During the yatra, the devotees visited the temple of Lord Brahma along with Gayatri Devi, Savitri Mata Temple, and the ancient temple of Lord Shiva. Each temple visit was filled with kirtan, prayers, and heartfelt offerings, immersing everyone in the spiritual atmosphere of this divine land.
Gaurang Gurukul’s Heart-Touching Aabhār Dance
One of the highlights of the yatra was the Aabhār Dance performance by the students of Gauranga Gurukul. This dance, earlier presented during the Gurukul’s annual function, was once again performed to express deep gratitude towards the Guru Paramparā. The graceful movements and devotional expressions of the children reflected their pure love for Srila Prabhupada, His Holiness Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, and all the previous Acharyas. The performance beautifully portrayed the sacred bond between the spiritual master and disciple, leaving everyone deeply moved.
The dance was highly appreciated by senior vaishnavas including HG Dashavatar Prabhuji, HG Rishi Kumar Prabhuji, HG Keshavanand Prabhuji, and many other exalted devotees. They appreciated the great efforts of HG Rukmini Jeevan Prabhuji and showered their heartfelt blessings upon the young Gurukul students, praying for their spiritual advancement and bright future.
A Yatra to Remember
The yatra concluded with an atmosphere filled with divine bliss. Devotees engaged in kirtan, honoured prasadam, and performed austerities and parikramas around the sacred places of Pushkar. Each moment spent in this holy land deepened their faith and strengthened their spiritual bond with Guru and Krishna. As the devotees returned, their hearts were overflowing with gratitude and joy — carrying with them the divine memories of this Pushkar Yatra, a journey that truly became a celebration of devotion, unity, and love for the Guru Paramparā.