“Regarding Jhulanyatra Ceremony, during these five days the Deities’ clothing should be changed every day, and there should be nice Prasadam distribution and Sankirtan as far as possible. If you are able to do it, a nice throne may be constructed on which the Deities can be placed. This throne may be swung gently during Kirtana. That will be very good, and surely the Deities will enjoy the function.” (A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. 1 August 1969. Letter to Jayapataka Swami. Letters book pg. 977)
Jhulan Yarta is one of the most popular festivals celebrated during the month of Sravana. In the holy town of Vrndavana it lasts for 13 days. The Utsav-vighraha Deities are taken from the altar and placed on elaborately decorated swings. The opulent swings are often made of gold or silver.
Everyone get an opportunity to participate in this special festival. Offering flower petals and personal prayers they pull the swing during sweet kirtan. In this way everyone gets the chance to personally serve Radha and Krishna.
On the full moon called Jhulan Purnima Lord Balarama’s appearance day is celebrated.
In all ISKCON temples we observe this festival for 5 days in accordance with Srila Prabhupada’s instructions.
(Information from www.vaisnavacalendar.info)
Jhulan Yatra in Ujjain
Jhulan Yatra started on 1 August and culminated in Lord Balarama’s appearance day on the full moon night of Balarama purnima. Here in Ujjain, Jhulan Yatra was celebrated in great style. A section of the temple room was cordoned off and a miniature Vrindavan replicated. Tranquil little waterfalls were nestled between rocks, flowers and lush green foliage. Beautiful backdrops depicting the Vrindavan forests framed the scene. The intricately carved wooden swing was gorgeously decorated with fragrant flower garlands. On this swing Their Lordships Sri Sri Radha Madan Mohan took great pleasure in the loving service of so many eager and willing hands pulling them in a rhythmic to and fro motion. At times the light reflected on Srimati Radharani’s lustrous face and it appeared as if little diamonds shone in her eyes.
Thousands of people attended every night of the festival snaking in long lines, patiently waiting to tug lightly at the plaited saffron rope attached to the swing, their relatives waiting for just the right moment to take a quick snapshot. The Book tables were well attended as was the Maha Prasad Bhandar. Various devotees were seen preaching actively to the congregation. A huddle of young men was clustered around a smiling brahmacari explaining Krishna consciousness in rapid Hindi. Young men danced flamboyantly in languid graceful movements. This time, equally graceful girls happily surrendered their space to the Vrindavan forest.
The atmosphere in the temple was so sweet. Everything and everyone was sweet. Sweet kirtan complemented the playful Vrindavan mood and Srimati Radharani and her handsome beau reciprocated sweetly with their devotees.
Please share in the Jhulan Yatra festival here in Ujjain by viewing these beautiful pictures.