This bhajan, set in Kaharwa Taal, is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Krishna, celebrating his divine beauty, playfulness, and spiritual significance. It describes a journey towards inner purity and peace, using metaphors of holy rivers, the calming presence of nature, and Krishna's enchanting flute. With references to Meerabai’s unwavering devotion, the bhajan encourages complete surrender to Krishna, symbolized by bowing at his lotus feet. It reflects the essence of bhakti (devotion) and the soul’s longing to connect with the divine through love and surrender.
Lyrics
Chalo Man Ganga Jamuna Teer Nirmal Pani Sheetal Hot Shareer Bansi Bajavat Gavat Kanha Sanga Liye Balabir Mor Mukut Peetambar Sohay Kundal Jhalakat Heer Meera Kahe Prabhu Giridhar Nagar Charan Kamal Par Seer
Meaning
Chalo Man Ganga Jamuna TeerTranslation: O mind, let’s go to the banks of the rivers Ganga and Yamuna. Meaning: This line is urging the mind to journey towards a holy place, symbolized by the sacred rivers Ganga and Yamuna. In Indian spirituality, these rivers are not just physical locations but also represent purity and the washing away of sins. The suggestion is that by going to such places, one can attain inner purity and peace. Nirmal Pani, Sheetal Hot ShareerTranslation: The water is pure, and the body feels cool. Meaning: This is describing the serenity and calmness one experiences when in a holy place. The pure water symbolizes spiritual cleansing, and the coolness of the body signifies relief from the heat of worldly struggles. It’s a metaphor for the calm and peace one feels in the presence of divinity or when engaged in spiritual practices. Bansi Bajavat Gavat KanhaTranslation: Kanha (Krishna) is playing the flute and singing. Meaning: Krishna, known for playing the flute, is often associated with music and divine bliss. In Hindu lore, his flute music mesmerized the Gopis (milkmaids) of Vrindavan, symbolizing the call of the divine to the soul. The image of Krishna playing the flute represents the call of the divine to our hearts, drawing us closer to God through the melody of love and devotion. Sanga Liye BalabirTranslation: Along with Him is the brave Balram (Krishna’s elder brother). Meaning: Krishna is often depicted with his brother Balram, who is known for his strength and protective nature. Balram represents the physical and mental strength one needs on the spiritual path, while Krishna represents love and divine playfulness. Together, they suggest that spiritual growth requires both devotion and strength. Mor Mukut Peetambar SohayTranslation: Krishna is adorned with a peacock feather crown and a yellow garment. Meaning: This is a vivid description of Lord Krishna. The peacock feather in his crown (mor mukut) symbolizes beauty, grace, and divine charm. The yellow garment (Peetambar) Krishna wears is a symbol of purity and spirituality. His attire reflects his playful yet deeply spiritual nature. Kundal Jhalakat HeerTranslation: His earrings (kundal) shine brightly like diamonds. Meaning: Krishna’s earrings are gleaming, adding to his divine beauty and splendor. This emphasizes the charming and attractive nature of God, making the devotee feel drawn towards him. Krishna’s appearance, full of light and beauty, represents the divine energy that attracts and enchants the soul. Meera Kahe Prabhu Giridhar NagarTranslation: Meera says, “My Lord is Giridhar Nagar (Krishna).” Meaning: This line brings in the voice of Meerabai, one of the most famous devotees of Krishna. Meerabai referred to Krishna as "Giridhar" (the lifter of Govardhan hill) because of the story where Krishna saved the people of Vrindavan by lifting the mountain to protect them from a storm. For Meera, Krishna is everything—her Lord, her protector, and her eternal companion. Charan Kamal Par SeerTranslation: I bow my head at his lotus feet. Meaning: This is the ultimate act of surrender in bhakti (devotion). The lotus feet of Krishna symbolize purity, divinity, and the source of spiritual guidance. Bowing one's head at the lotus feet of Krishna signifies complete surrender to the divine will and finding refuge in God's grace. This act of submission to the divine is central to the path of devotion (bhakti yoga). Overall Meaning:The bhajan is a call to leave behind worldly distractions and journey towards spiritual purity. It paints vivid pictures of the serenity one feels at sacred places, the divine beauty of Krishna, and the importance of strength and devotion on the spiritual path. It also invokes the deep love and devotion of Meerabai, who exemplifies the surrender of the soul to Krishna. This bhajan invites the listener to experience divine love, purity, and devotion through contemplation of Krishna’s playful yet majestic form.