Introduction
Building upon the previous section (Part One: The Sacred Kṣetra of Gopāla), where we explored the scriptural references that sanctify Braj Bhūmi, this part turns to the meaning and archaeological context of the 84 kos Parikrama, the region’s most revered pilgrimage circuit. By examining its historical geography and the discoveries made along this ancient route, we gain a clearer understanding of the landscape in which recent findings by Dr. Vinay have emerged. This perspective not only highlights the continuity of Braj’s sacred tradition but also helps us appreciate the uniqueness and significance of the new archaeological evidence.
Building upon the previous section (Part One: The Sacred Kṣetra of Gopāla), where we explored the scriptural references that sanctify Braj Bhūmi, this part turns to the meaning and archaeological context of the 84 kos Parikrama, the region’s most revered pilgrimage circuit. By examining its historical geography and the discoveries made along this ancient route, we gain a clearer understanding of the landscape in which recent findings by Dr. Vinay have emerged. This perspective not only highlights the continuity of Braj’s sacred tradition but also helps us appreciate the uniqueness and significance of the new archaeological evidence.
Braj 84 kos Parikrama
The concept of Braj Parikrama seems to be related to the pan-Indian concept of tīrthāṭana (religious tourism). The concept was developed to understand the pilgrimage centers holistically. The Braj Parikrama is related to nature’s worship, as all natural sources like groves, rivers, hills, lakes, ponds, and even the dust of Braj (Braj-raj) are revered. This concept of worshipping nature can be understood by the prevailing practice of the Vallabhīya Puṣṭimārgī sect, who still call Braj Parikrama as Vanayātrā.
