Chandan Yatra is observed in the summer every year. On this occasion, the Deity of the Lord is anointed with Chandan (sandalwood paste) to relieve Him of the severe heat of the summer.

The Chandan Yatra of Sri Srinivasa Govinda is conducted at ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Rajajinagar, from 28 to 30 May. During these days, the Lord is adorned in Chandan Alankara.

The History and Significance of Chandan Yatra in Gaudiya Vaishnavism

The celebration of this festival among the Gaudiya Vaishnavas is linked to a beautiful pastime of Lord Krishna with Sri Madhavendra Puri, one of the exalted acharyas of this sampradaya.

Madhavendra Puri installed and worshipped Sri Gopala’s Deity in the holy land of Vrindavana with great care and devotion. Once, on a scorching summer day, Sri Gopala appeared in Madhavendra Puri’s dream and asked him to smear His body with sandalwood paste to alleviate the heat and to bring Malaya sandalwood from Jagannatha Puri. To carry out the order of His dear Lord, Madhavendra Puri immediately set out for Puri on foot and brought sandalwood from there to apply it to Sri Gopala’s body.

Sri Gopala was immensely pleased with Madhavendra Puri for carrying out his service without consideration of personal inconveniences and impediments during his journey. The Lord wanted to show how intensely Madhavendra Puri loved Krishna; therefore, He asked him to go to Jagannatha Puri to fetch sandalwood and camphor. When Madhavendra Puri passed this examination, the Lord became very merciful to him.

Continuing the tradition of this sweet pastime illustrating the intense devotional feelings and dedication of Madhavendra Puri for the Lord, devotees at ISKCON temples, as well as many temples in Vrindavan, smear the Deity with sandalwood paste every year during summer.

The Supreme Lord is self-sufficient. He doesn’t require anyone’s service. He maintains all living beings and supplies all their necessities. Yet, He is pleased when His devotees engage in His loving devotional service, by which they make advancement on the path of devotional service. Chandan Yatra is a great opportunity for devotees to serve the Lord by grinding Chandan for Him.  

We invite you to visit ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Rajajinagar, between 28 and 30 May. Witness the darshan of Sri Srinivasa Govinda in this special Chandan alankara and seek His blessings.

You can also offer your seva to Sri Srinivasa Govinda.