According to a story found in the Puranas, Sushila, a devoted friend of Radha, holds a significant place in the spiritual tapestry surrounding the divine couple Radha and Krishna. Sushila's tale intertwines with themes of love, devotion, and divine retribution, illustrating the profound dynamics of relationships in the spiritual realm.
Sushila and Radha's Friendship
Sushila was not an ordinary friend; she was considered the
embodiment of Dakshina, the goddess representing the act of giving and
generosity. Her close association with Radha, the beloved consort of Bhagavan
Sri Krishna, made her an integral part of the divine play in Vrindavan, where
the divine love between Radha and Krishna blossomed.
Sushila's Love for Krishna
Sushila's love for Krishna was pure and unwavering, much
like Radha's. However, the intensity of her love led to unforeseen
consequences. One day, Radha discovered Sushila and Krishna together, a sight
that stirred deep emotions within her. Consumed by jealousy and the fear of
losing her unique bond with Krishna, Radha cursed Sushila in a moment of
intense emotion.
Sushila's Penitence and Transformation
Heartbroken and seeking redemption, Sushila turned to
meditation. She focused her prayers on Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and
prosperity, who is also known for her benevolence. Sushila's deep meditation
and penance led to her becoming absorbed in Lakshmi, merging her essence with
the goddess.
Intervention of the Devas
The Devas, celestial beings responsible for maintaining
cosmic order, noticed Sushila's transformation. They realized that with Sushila
being absorbed into Lakshmi, the aspect of Dakshina was lost. Without Dakshina,
they were unable to receive the fruits of their sacrifices, which disrupted the
cosmic balance.
To restore equilibrium, the Devas decided to withdraw
Sushila from Lakshmi. They then entrusted her to Yajna Purusha, the
personification of the sacrificial rites. Yajna Purusha embraced Sushila, who
soon became pregnant. After a period of twelve years, she gave birth to a child
named Phalada.
Phalada – The Embodiment of Rewards
Phalada, meaning "fruits," symbolized the rewards
of all actions and sacrifices. Her birth marked the restoration of cosmic
balance, as she embodied the fruits that the Devas and humans sought through
their acts of devotion and sacrifice. Phalada ensured that the divine cycle of
action and reward continued, maintaining the harmony of the universe.
The story of Sushila highlights the interconnectedness of
divine beings and their influence on the cosmic order. It underscores the
themes of love, jealousy, penance, and divine intervention, illustrating the
complexity of relationships even in the spiritual realm. Through Sushila's
journey from a devoted friend to an integral part of the cosmic balance, the
narrative emphasizes the significance of every individual's role in maintaining
harmony in the universe.