Maan Sarovar (Mansarovar) is located on the bank of Yamuna opposite to Vrindavan and is surrounded by serene forests. The name “Maan” signifies the lover’s anger, while “Sarovar” means lake. It is believed that Radharani, feeling jealous of Krishna’s dancing with other gopis during the Rasa Lila near the Yamuna river, expressed her anger and left the dance. She crossed the yamuna, came to Mansarovar and wept uncontrollably, and her tears formed the lake. Krishna eventually found her there and apologized by placing his flute and head at her feet. He promised never to repeat his actions. A painting depicting this scene is worshiped in an old temple on the bank of Maan Sarovar. Jayadeva Goswami in his gita govinda beautifully describes this pastime in the following words –
Smara garala khandanam mama sirasi mandanam
Dehi pada pallavam udaram
–
Oh Radha! Your lotus feet have the power to fulfill all my wishes. Please place them on my head. The flames of Kamadeva’s fire are causing me immense pain. I am longing for the cooling touch of your lotus feet to relieve me from this suffering.
After a successful attempt at consoling Radha, Krishna and Radha were reunited in the Kunja where they could enjoy their intimate pastimes, bringing an end to the “Maan” Lila. They were both ecstatic to be together again.
Pastimes of Shiva at Mansarovar
Mansarovar Vrindavan, holds another interesting tale. Asuri Muni, a revered sage, had a vision of Radha and Krishna during his penance on Narada mountain. However, the vision abruptly vanished, prompting him to embark on a quest to find the divine couple, which led him to scour Vaikuntha, Goloka, and the milk ocean to no avail. He then approached Lord Shiva on Kailash to express his apprehension. Lord Shiva disclosed that Krishna was preparing for his rasa Lila in Vrindavan and invited Asuri Muni to accompany him to witness the event.
Regrettably, they were denied entry into the rasa mandali upon arrival in Vrindavan. They were told that only Krishna was allowed to be a male participant in the rasa mandali, and to join, they would have to take on the form of a gopi. They accepted the terms and were directed to immerse themselves in Maan Sarovar lake. Upon emerging, both Asuri Muni and Shiva had taken on suitable gopi forms. This feminine manifestation of Lord Shiva is known as Gopeshwar Mahadeva, who guards Vraja Mandala.
How to Reach
Maansarovar, also known as Radha Rani Maan Sarovar, is located in a tranquil spot, completely enclosed by forests. It is situated just 10 kilometers away from Vrindavan on the opposite side of the Yamuna river.