We look blankly past erotic sculptures on hallowed grounds. We still sing Jayadeva’s verses but not the most explicit ones. I can understand that Hinduism, which once did not hesitate to associate eroticism with divinity, has put on a mantle of Victorian morality for a long time now. I am quite convinced that the translations are watered-down, taking away the sheer erotic imagery of the poet. I have poured over many translations and dictionaries. If one needs a reason for worshipping a Saguna Brahman (The Absolute with qualities, the definable Absolute), surely this prayer gives you one? How can one say nay to a so irresistible Lord of Sweetness? From time immemorial, he has been depicted with his Gopis (cowherdesses), enchanting one and all with his amorous play. Of all the Hindu Gods, Krishna is perhaps the most captivating, especially to a woman. I have always loved this prayer, in fact I associate the word Madhura (sweet) with Lord Krishna because of this stotra. ![]() ![]() One of his most beautiful poetry is Madhurashtakam, the sweetest of prayers for the sweetest of Gods. There is a good article on Vallabhacharya here. He was a scholar, philosopher and a great devotee of Lord Krishna and wrote stotras and commentaries on Bhagawata Purana. His family was Telugu speaking and came from Andhra Pradesh. ![]() Vallabhacharya (1479-1531) was born in Champaran near Raipur.
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