Shri Ji is the Ultimate Refuge

Worshipping Shri Krishna and surrendering to him brings welfare. For surrender, one needs someone to surrender to. The basis of surrender is greatness and accessibility. Devotees say that surrendering to Shri Ji (Radha Rani) is even greater than surrendering to Bhagawan. In greatness, there is equality between Bhagwan and Shri Ji. There is no difference in greatness. Both are rulers of infinite universes.

The infinite, indivisible, and unchanging Brahmajyoti manifests as Radha and Madhava in two forms. Yet, Shri Radha is more accessible. Bhagwan is busy with the creation, sustenance, and dissolution of countless universes. He has very little time to listen to devotees' pleas. He remains engaged in managing the world. Therefore, it is Shri Radha who listens to the devotees' sorrows. After hearing them, she conveys them to Bhagwan.

The word 'Shri' comes from the root 'श्रु' (to hear). Hence, Shri Radha is described as: 'She who hears the devotees' sorrows and conveys them to Bhagwan. Shri Radha listens patiently and ensures that Bhagwan becomes aware of their sorrows through her.

To convey one's words to the all-powerful, all-knowing Lord of infinite universes, Shri Ji is the way. Whether it is joy or sorrow, small or big, Shri Ji listens and understands.

For protection from Bhagwan, saying 'Sharanam' is necessary. But Shri Ji does not require this. Even without saying 'Sharanam,' protection happens due to her spontaneous compassion.

When a father scolds or punishes a child, the mother stops him if she is nearby. If the mother is absent, the father might punish freely. Similarly, Shri Ji has causeless forgiveness. Like Bhagwan possesses greatness, supreme nature, and transcendence, Shri Ji has greater accessibility. Shri Ji’s accessibility is unmatched. Hence, the ultimate refuge is Shri Ji.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi