Rādhā: The Quintessential Gopī

Abstract

The article "RADHA: THE QUINTESSENTIAL GOPI (THE FOURTH CHAPTER OF RUPA GOSVAMIN’S UJJVALA-NILAMANI)" by Neal Delmonico introduces and translates the fourth chapter of Rupa Gosvamin's Ujjvala-nilamani, focusing on the pivotal role of Radha as the preeminent Gopi in Krishna bhakti traditions. The article first contextualizes the emergence of the Gopis in Hindu mythology and their eventual theological prominence, noting their evolution as models of sacred love, particularly within the Vaishnava traditions stemming from Chaitanya. It explores the historical and cultural factors that may have contributed to the rise of feminine divinity and erotic devotion, including political changes and the development of the aesthetic concept of rasa. The author discusses how Radha's special status is derived from her embodiment of hladini-shakti (enjoying power) and mahabhava (grand emotion), representing the highest form of love for Krishna. The article concludes with Rupa Gosvamin's detailed description of Radha's unparalleled beauty and adornments, reinforcing her position as the ultimate Gopi.