Sambodhi 2004 Vol 27

Author(s): J B Shah, N M Kansara
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 35

Vol. XXVII, 2004
MĪRĀBĀI IN GUJARATI TRADITION
(milkmaids) of Vrindavana, his magical feats, his resplendent personality, epitomizing the divine lover, who summons the human souls to the golden notes of his eternal flute. These are all parts of the great heritage of Hinduism.
Mirā's love and devotion for Krsna is variegated. She loved the Lord Krsna as a beloved, as husband, as master, as friend, as the Lord of the universe and imperishable Supreme Being. Her love towards the Lord is very pure, divine, spontaneous and natural. Immersed in deep devotion and love, she had no use for worldly riches and pleasures. In one of her poems, she says :
"I am in love with your face, Mohan dear, I am in love with your face. When I saw your face, The whole world became tasteless for me. Such is the happiness of worldly ones, Like the water of mirage. It should be discarded as worthless. Worldly pleasures are fragile, Marry and to be widowed. why should I desire it ? (Mīrānā shreshtha pada = MSP 1)
In another poem she says, 'my mind is pierced and my heart is stolen by the Lord, what shall I do ?
People of the town blame me. But I do not care. I sing praise of the Lord. An elephant strides through a crowded street, if a dog barks, how does it matter to the elephant !
I keep forgetting household chores, nor do I like the food. There is no sleep in my eyes.' (MSP-6).
Mīrā wept for Krsna, she spent sleepless nights tossing about in bed for a sight of Him. Her heart ached for Him and His image was ever etched in it. She tells, 'how can I forget God,
How can I expel God from the heart' (MSP-62). She was struck with knife of divine love. She says, “Of love, of love, yes, of love, The knife of love has struck me."