The call: Preserve the kunds, restore their sanctity, and revive Braj’s spiritual and ecological essence. The time to act is now, lest we lose forever the living symbols of a divine past that continue to inspire the faith and devotion of millions.
2025.04.19 (Vrindavan Today News): The Braj region, venerated as the divine playground of Lord Krishna’s eternal pastimes, is dotted with sacred kunds (water reservoirs) that hold immense religious, cultural, and ecological significance. Among these, Radha Kund, Govind Kund, Shyam Kund, Lalita Kund, and Kusum Sarovar, Manasi Ganga stand as enduring symbols of Braj’s spiritual and historical legacy.
However, these sanctified spaces are now facing a serious crisis of neglect and degradation. In a recent development, a delegation from the Braj Vrindavan Devalaya Samiti (BVDS) led by Goswami Shri Krishnanand Bhatt, undertook an inspection of two lesser-known yet profoundly significant kunds—Malhar Kund and Baldev Kund. The findings were deeply disturbing.
Malhar Kund, once a serene reservoir linked to Krishna’s divine exploits, has fallen victim to encroachments, solid waste accumulation, and severe pollution. The surrounding areas are littered with garbage, while untreated sewage continues to flow into the water, rendering it unfit even for ritual use. Baldev Kund, situated in Ral, was found to be in an even worse condition.
The delegation, which included senior environmentalist and legal advocate Shri Aakash Vashishth, was visibly disheartened by the sight. These kunds are not only ancient sites of pilgrimage but are also integral to the narrative tapestry of Krishna’s life. Their deterioration is a blow not only to ecological integrity but also to the collective religious sentiments of millions.
A Sacred Heritage in Peril
Both Malhar Kund and Baldev Kund hold deep mythological relevance and are considered sacred by devotees across the world. The ongoing neglect and environmental decay are not only dishonoring this spiritual legacy but also threatening the region’s fragile ecosystem.
The delegation has resolved to take firm and immediate action. A legal appeal will be filed to seek protection and rehabilitation of these kunds. The Samiti has also demanded that the government carry out proper demarcation of all sacred water bodies in Braj, to safeguard them from further encroachments and misuse.
The significance of these kunds extends far beyond their immediate religious value. They play a vital role in water conservation, sustain local biodiversity, and offer immense potential for responsible cultural and ecological tourism. Protecting them is not only a spiritual or emotional duty—it is a pressing environmental necessity.
The committee emphasized that the restoration of these water bodies is crucial for preserving Braj’s unique landscape. Sites like Mansi Ganga in Govardhan, Prem Sarovar in Barsana, and other ancient kunds must also be protected through coordinated efforts involving government agencies, civil society, and local communities.
The delegation included several respected figures: Shri Krishnanand Bhatt (Senior Vice President), Shri Balram Goswami, Shri Krishna Murari Goswami, Shri Bhagwat Swaroop Sharma, Mahant Shri Ram Krishna Das, Shri Arun Bhatt, Shri Aakash Vashishth, Shri Bhrigu Muni Das, and Shri Jagannath Poddar, among others. Their joint appeal underscores the urgent need to treat these sacred sites as national and global heritage treasures deserving of immediate attention.
