Today’s Chandan Yatra vesa brings to life a thrilling and deeply meaningful pastime from Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (SB 10.12) — the killing of Aghāsura, the monstrous python demon.

“One day, Krishna desired to enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest with His cowherd boyfriends. As they wandered, laughing and playing with their calves, a terrifying figure awaited them – Aghāsura, the younger brother of Pūtanā and Bakāsura.”

Sent by Kaṁsa, Aghāsura took the terrifying form of a massive python, his mouth stretching from the earth to the heavens. He lay still on the forest path, his appearance deceptively blending in with the surroundings. The innocent cowherd boys, seeing the demon’s gaping mouth, mistook it for a cave or play structure, and — completely fearless due to Krishna’s presence — they entered inside, laughing and joking.

Their faith in Krishna’s protection was unshakable. Though they suspected danger, they knew Krishna would save them — and indeed, He did. After they were swallowed, Krishna entered the demon’s mouth Himself. There, He expanded His form, suffocating the demon from within and bursting Aghāsura’s body, liberating him and saving His dear friends.

This pastime is not only awe-inspiring but filled with lessons of:

Faith in Krishna’s protection

The Lord’s loving nature toward His devotees

How even a great demon, upon contact with Krishna, can be liberated

Let us reflect on the sweet confidence of the Vrajavāsīs — how their simple faith and childlike trust in Krishna became the cause of their protection and joy.

As part of today’s Chandan Yatra darshan, Their Lordships are dressed in a stunning vesa remembering this divine pastime — inviting us all to enter the spiritual world through remembrance, darshan, and śravaṇam.