By Ananta Gopal Das | Head Pujari (Priest) at Bhaktivedanta Manor

For a person desiring to deepen their personal bhajan, Vrindavan is the place to go. A simple environment combined with the association of saintly people from all varieties of spiritual sects provides a rare opportunity to experience spiritual life from all angles of vision.

Cows, peacocks, monkeys, and green parrots are unique decorations of Vraj. They all play a special role, awarding sincere devotees with a whole suite of spiritual experiences.

Cows are there to enrich our experience. They give a special sweetness to Vrindavan.

Peacocks decorate Vrindavan with various colours and sounds. Their famous dance is the final offering they present to devotees looking for nectar.

Monkeys play a unique role, mischievously stealing our glasses and other items, making sure we always remain alert. They are teaching us to depend on Krishna constantly.

Green parrots sitting on kadamba and tamal trees, singing songs glorifying  the pastimes of Radha and Krishna, can even transform the consciousness of a person not desiring spiritual advancement.

The sounds of the temple bells ringing in the early morning hours, combined with the soft chanting of sadhus circumambulating the holy Dham create an exceptional experience that Vrindavan dham is offering us.

When a serious sadhaka comes to Vraj in the mood of a beggar, begging for mercy, only then may Vrindavan reveal itself to a devotee.

Vrindavan beggars are the wealthiest people in the universe because they know the science of begging. They are wise because they are searching for wealth in the right place.

Srimad Bhagavatam 10.14.30 My dear Lord, I therefore pray to be so fortunate that in this life as Lord Brahmā or in another life, wherever I take my birth, I may be counted as one of Your devotees. I pray that wherever I may be, even among the animal species, I can engage in devotional service to Your lotus feet.