Natyasutra Online

Radha

Strange as though it may seem, until Gita Govinda, none of the texts had detailed the relationship between the Lord and His greatest devotee. Even in Bhagavata Purana, we find no mention of Radha. At best, she is a marginal figure who features in folk songs, with no striking qualities that set her apart. In the critic Sisir Das’s estimate, Jayadeva’s original contribution to the Krishna lore lies in the dexterity with which “he ‘Sanskritized’ Radha and assured her immortality in Indian life and literature.

Radha is introduced to the masses primarily due to the influence of the Gita Govinda. Post the 12th century, she is considered the ideal partner, known for her devotion and undying loyalty towards the celestial being she loves. Some records define her as a young gopika; others say she is the wife of Lord Krishna. Regardless, throughout history, their stories and names are intertwined forever. The gopikas are often mentioned in these tales and are essential background characters, often troubled yet impressed by Lord Krishna’s behaviour. Gopika is a Sanskrit word that means “female cowherd,” “wife of a cowherd,” and “female guardian.” Here, young Krishna earned his reputation as a mischievous prankster. Krishna would play his flute, and the gopikas would come to him and dance around, symbolising his divine charisma; thus, the gopikas became a symbol of suddha bhakti, the highest form of pure faith. The cowherds and verdant landscape of the idyllic Vrindavan are the settings for most of the tale. Located near Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, it is a pilgrimage site today.