Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki

The best-loved traditional aarti of Shri Giridhar Krishna Murari, sung every evening and especially on Janmashtami.

This aarti, in the Braj language, describes the enchanting form of Krishna who sports in the groves (kunj) of Vrindavan.

The first stanza pictures the Vaijayanti garland on His neck, the sweet flute, the earrings shining in His ears, and Nandalal, the joy of Nanda. His dark body is like the sky, and Radha Rani shines beside Him.

The second stanza praises the golden peacock crown, the sight of which even the gods long for; flowers rain from the sky, and the murchang and mridanga drums play among the gopis.

The third stanza says that the feet from which the Ganga came forth, the river that washes away the sins of Kali Yuga and rests in Shiva's matted hair, are the feet of the Lord of the forest (Banwari).

The last stanza shows the bright sands of the Yamuna bank, the flute of Vrindavan, and the gopas, gopis and cows on every side. The Lord's gentle smile cuts the bonds of worldly life, and He hears the call of the poor and suffering.

While performing aarti it is customary to wave the lamp before the Lord's feet, navel and face, and then around the whole form.

Author

Traditional