Raslila of Braj
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
Devotional dance-drama of Mathura and Vrindavan that enacts Shri Krishna's childhood and his dance with Radha and the gopis.
DevotionalWhere: Braj: Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana and NandgaonOccasion: Janmashtami, Holi, Sharad Purnima and through the year in temples and ashrams
| Performed by | Troupes (rasmandalis) led by a swami; boys traditionally play Krishna, Radha and the gopis (swaroop) |
|---|---|
| Costume | Peacock-feather crowns, bright silk dresses, jewellery and painted faces |
| Music and instruments | Braj Bhasha songs and padas of poets such as Surdas; pakhawaj, harmonium, cymbals and sarangi |
How it is performed
- The performance opens with the rasa: Krishna dances in a circle with Radha and the gopis, with spins and graceful steps.
- The lila follows: a dramatised episode such as stealing butter (makhan chori) or lifting Govardhan hill, with sung dialogue in Braj Bhasha.
- The child actors playing Krishna and Radha are treated as divine during the performance and the audience bows to them.
- It ends with an aarti and the singing of devotional songs.
Significance
Raslila keeps the Bhakti tradition of Braj alive. It is both worship and theatre.