Govardhana Śila—A Gauḍīya Hallmark: Original and Modern Approaches

Abstract

 The article “Govardhana Śila—A Gauḍīya Hallmark: Original and Modern Approaches” by Vraja Kishor traces the historical and theological significance of Govardhana stones (śilās) within the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition. The article centers on the practice inaugurated by Raghunātha dāsa Goswāmī, who worshipped Govardhana Śilā as the embodiment of Kṛṣṇa’s intimate moods and mercy. Kishor discusses the theological rationale behind this practice, highlighting how it supports the rāga-mārga path of spontaneous devotion. The article contrasts traditional practices of stone worship with contemporary approaches, particularly those influenced by institutional frameworks like ISKCON. Kishor critically examines how doctrinal clarity, ritual purity, and emotional authenticity are negotiated in modern Govardhana worship, offering insights into devotional aesthetics and the evolving contours of Gauḍīya identity.