Rāsalīlā Pañcādhyāya
The Bhāgavata’s Ultimate Vision of the Gopīs
Keywords:
Rasalila, Panchadhyaya, Bhagavata Purana, Gopis, Krishna, Vaishnavism, Caitanya school, devotion, LilaAbstract
The article "RASALELA PANCHADHYAYA: THE BHAGAVATA’S ULTIMATE VISION OF THE GOPIS" explores the profound significance of the Gopis in the Bhagavata Purana, particularly within the Rasalila Panchadhyaya (the five chapters detailing the Rasa dance episode). The article begins by contextualizing the Gopis as the epitome of devotion in Vaishnavism, emphasizing their portrayal in the tenth book of the Bhagavata Purana. It outlines the specific events and emotional phases of the Gopis within the Rasalila, noting the influence of this narrative on the Caitanya school of Vaishnavism, which regards it as the pinnacle of devotion to Krishna. The study reviews how the Bhagavata text itself, through narrative framing and thematic development, elevates the Rasalila to a unique status among Krishna's divine pastimes. It also examines the narrative layers of the Bhagavata and how the Gopi framework within the Tenth Book anticipates and supports the central Rasalila episode, contributing to its supreme importance for devotees.
