The Origin of Chandan Yatra – The Loving Service of Madhavendra Puri
When Gopalji expressed His desire for sandalwood, Madhavendra Puri walked all the way to Jagannath Puri out of pure love. This touching story reveals the origin of Chandan Yatra and shows how Krishna is pleased not by grandeur, but by sincere devotion. A timeless lesson in selfless service and surrender.
This sacred festival, known as Chandan Yatra, finds its origin in the heart-melting pastime of Śrī Madhavendra Puri, a great bhakta.
🌿 A Dream of Divine Longing
Once, while Madhavendra Puri was residing near Govardhan Hill, the Deity of Gopalji (Krishna) appeared to him in a dream. The Lord said:
“I am feeling great heat. Please go to Jagannath Puri and bring chandan (sandalwood) to cool My body.”
A simple request from the Lord — and a great task for His devotee. Without hesitation, Madhavendra Puri set out on foot, walking hundreds of kilometers toward Jagannath Puri, simply to fulfill Gopalji’s desire.
🍚 The Sweet Offering at Remuna
On the way, Madhavendra Puri stopped at Remuna, where the beautiful temple of Gopinath is located. There, he heard of a famous offering made to the Lord — a special kheer (sweet rice) prepared with great devotion.
Madhavendra Puri wished to taste it — not out of desire, but so he could later offer the same preparation to Gopalji. But immediately he felt ashamed. “How could I desire the Lord’s own offering?” He thought, and silently left the temple without telling anyone.
✨ The Lord’s Love for His Devotee
That night, Gopinath appeared in a dream to the temple pujari and said:
“I have kept a pot of sweet rice behind My cloth on the altar. Go and take it. It is for Madhavendra Puri, My dear devotee. Give it to him.”
The astonished pujari followed the divine instructions and found the hidden kheer. He quickly ran to give it to Madhavendra Puri, who was overwhelmed with love and humility.
🌺 Completing the Lord’s Desire
After reaching Jagannath Puri and receiving the sandalwood, Madhavendra Puri faced a challenge. The journey back to Govardhan with such a heavy load would take months.
That night, Gopalji appeared again in a dream and said:
“There is no difference between Me and My Deity Gopinath in Remuna. If you apply the sandalwood to Him, it will be the same as applying it to Me.”
Trusting the Lord’s instruction fully, Madhavendra Puri offered the sandalwood paste to Gopinath, cooling Him with loving care — just as he would have done for Gopalji in Vrindavan.
📜 The Beginning of Chandan Yatra
This divine pastime is the origin of the Chandan Yatra festival, which begins every year on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya. For 21 days, Deities are lovingly smeared with sandalwood paste to give them comfort during the summer heat — a tradition rooted in pure devotion.
🙏 What Did You Learn?
This story is one of love, surrender, and faith.
What touched your heart the most?
Please share your reflections in the comments — your words may inspire someone else today.
