By Gopal Sharan Sharma
2024.11.11 (Vrindavan Today News): Braj is Shri Krishna’s abode where the culture, devotion and festivity blend seamlessly. Braj culture is not one of renunciation, but rather one that embraces love, devotion, and the entirety of life’s pleasures. Celebrations are embedded in every stage of life here—from birth to death, each ritual is an occasion for joy. Among these, “Mela” (the fair) holds a unique place, loved deeply by the people of Braj. These gatherings become even more special when they connect with Lord Krishna, the deity of their devotion. One such fair, celebrated on Kartik Shukla Dashami, is the “Kansa Vadh” Mela, marking the epic defeat of the tyrant King Kansa by his nephew, Lord Krishna.
The Kansa Vadh Mela is not just a festival; it’s a vibrant dialogue with the past. The story goes that King Kansa of Mathura organized a grand fair in his city, intending to lure young Krishna and his brother Balarama with the plan of capturing and killing them. He sent his emissary, Akrur, to Vrindavan to invite them. Little did Kansa know that this very event would lead to his downfall. Krishna and Balarama attended the fair, and in a dramatic confrontation, Krishna overpowered and killed his uncle, thus liberating Mathura from tyranny.
The Chaturvedi community of Mathura, considered to have been close to Krishna and instrumental in supporting his mission, organizes this fair every year. According to tradition, Chhajju Chaturvedi, a member of the royal court yet a devout Krishna follower, played a crucial role in Kansa’s defeat. In honor of their revered ancestor, the Chaturvedi community commemorates his legacy by holding this magnificent fair.
The Enactment of the Divine Battle
On the day of the fair, the entire Chaturvedi community comes together, from the young to the elderly, prepared with kohl-lined eyes and decorated palms and hair. The highlight of the fair is a grand enactment of the fateful battle between Krishna and Kansa. A massive effigy of Kansa is constructed, embodying the memory of his tyranny, and Krishna and Balarama’s heroic triumph is vividly recreated. Before reaching Kansa, Krishna first overpowers Kuvalayapeeda, Kansa’s war elephant, and rescues the washerman who had oppressed the people.
In the spirit of age-old traditions, the men of the Chaturvedi community parade with Kansa’s symbolic sword, shield, and weapons. After the enactment, as Kansa meets his end, the air fills with celebratory cries of “Jai Shri Krishna” and “Jai Yamuna Maiya.” The people sing ancient folk songs that convey their happiness:
*”Kansa’s queen laments, her lament a song of defeat: ‘The milk-drinkers have defeated the king!’
But Mathura rejoices, and all are filled with joy. On elephants ride Krishna and Balarama, showered with blessings and love. Behind them, their friends wave fans, their auras filling the skies with a crimson glow.”*
Clad in peacock-feathered crowns and yellow garments, Krishna and Balarama’s appearance exudes such grace that even the celestial gods look on in awe. It is said that on this day alone, one can witness the brothers in all their majesty, as if a vision straight from Vaikuntha (heaven).
The Soul of Braj in Song and Dance
This joyous occasion sees villagers young and old singing:
“Laden with dust, we return from Kansa’s defeat, Our homes adorned with festive splendor. The streets are decorated, and every household hums with happiness.”
The fair is a sensory experience like no other, with songs, dances, and performances that echo through the streets of Mathura. Folk songs narrate the tale of Chhajju Chaturvedi, who is remembered for bringing “the legs of Kansa’s cot,” a symbol of the fallen king’s defeat. The people sing of Krishna and Balarama’s victory as they recall the battle and celebrate in the same spirit that once filled the city with hope.
Through this festival, the people of Braj keep alive not only a moment in history but also a deeper cultural heritage that values resilience, unity, and devotion. It is an embodiment of their love for Krishna, who stands as both protector and divine child, celebrating life in all its colors and forms.
