“Chal Mann Vrindavan”: Hema Malini’s Cultural Coffee Table Book Explores Legacy of Vrindavan
Ten News Network
New Delhi (25/08/2023): On Thursday, BJP MP Hema Malini’s cultural coffee table book titled “Chal Mann Vrindavan” was unveiled in New Delhi.
The book delves into the historical facts, heritage, cultural legacy, spiritual consciousness, and sacred traditions of Vrindavan. It sheds light on the rich tapestry of the region’s past.
It’s widely known that Vrindavan is among the oldest religious cities and pilgrimage sites in India. It holds a special place as the playground of Lord Krishna’s divine pastimes. Its magnificence is referenced in the Harivansh Purana, Bhagavad Gita, Vishnu Purana, and other ancient scriptures.
Addressing the audience, the Chief Guest and Union Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, praised Malini for beautifully highlighting the history, culture and religion associated with the historical city of Vrindavan, and expressed hope that she would continue serving the Braj region with the same dedication.
Speaking on ‘Chal Mann Vrindavan’s book, MP Hema Malini said that the book is written in two languages, Hindi and English which gives complete details about the entire Vrindavan.
“Chal Mann Vrindavan is written in two languages, Hindi and English. It will tell about Vrindavan and complete details about the entire Brij area, Govardhan, Nandgaon, Barsana, Mathura and all the surrounding the ’84 kos’. How Holi is played there, how the raas leela is organised. This book will make the reader feel like he has reached Vrindavan… I thank Ashok Bansal and his entire team for making this book and making me a part of it,” Malini said.
In his address, Indian Oil CMD Shrikant Madhav Vaidya said, “The Brajbumi of Mathura, with its rich cultural tapestry, is the very soul of India. The echoes of Lord Krishna tales reverberate through the sacred temples. Vibrant streets, serene ghats on the Yamuna banks. The concept behind “Chal mann Vrindavan” was to capture the essence and rich cultural heritage of Braj and that was the vision of Hima Malani Ji. Her passion and commitment is materializing. This idea over the last two years has culminated in this wonderful coffee table book.”
Dr. H. Chaturvedi, Director of BIMTECH, in his address, highlighted that Varanasi attracts 8 crore tourists annually and Mathura-Vrindavan receives 4 crore tourists per year, making it a prominent pilgrimage destination. In contrast, Goa witnesses around 65 lakh tourists annually.
The book’s editor, Ashok Bansal, shared his inspiration behind writing it, citing a meeting with Hema Malini during the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed his desire to bring attention to overlooked places like the Mahakavi Surdas Samadhi in Govardhan, highlighting its significance similar to the reverence for William Shakespeare’s tomb.
Following the book launch, a video film depicting the life of Hema Malini was screened. The event also showcased a ramp walk and fashion show featuring young girls wearing the famous sarees of Mathura-Vrindavan.
The unveiling of “Chal Mann Vrindavan” resonated with the deep-rooted cultural heritage and spiritual significance that Mathura and Vrindavan hold. The book offers a comprehensive journey into the heart of these sacred towns, capturing their essence and inviting readers to explore their rich history and cultural tapestry.
चल मन वृदावन | कान्हा के ब्रज की एक झलक | केंद्रीय मंत्री हरदीप सिंह पूरी | हेमा मालिनी | Video Highlights