The book Legends and Lore of Krishna’s Braj transports readers to the holy cities of Mathura, Vrindavan, Gokul, and Barsana, where Krishna’s influence can still be felt strongly. The book eloquently depicts the region’s colourful festivals, music, art, and customs by fusing history, mythology, and firsthand accounts. Every area of Braj is alive with devotion, from the peaceful temples of Vrindavan to the exuberant Lathmar Holi of Barsana. This book provides a glimpse into the faith of innumerable pilgrims and the timeless tales that continue to influence India’s spiritual and artistic legacy. It is full of anecdotes and cultural insights.

The Kolkata Mail correspondent Priyanka Dutta caught up with the writer Juhi Sinha in an exclusive chat. Excerpts..

How long did it take you to write this book?

Juhi Sinha- Priyanka, it took me a surprisingly long time to write it. It seemed simple enough to write a book on Braj, but I found that apart from the merely physical aspect of the land and terrain, there were so many dimensions to Braj- the people, the culture, and the special ethos that prevails in the region. So it took me many years of wandering through its streets and alleys with my notebook and camera( almost all the photographs in the book have been taken by me)to write the book.

What inspired you to write on this topic?

Juhi Sinha- Although I belong to Uttar Pradesh in  North India, I found that I knew little about it. Apart from the fact that Krishna was born in Mathura in Braj, there were large gaps in my knowledge about Braj and the region. As I delved deeper, looking under the dust and chaos of the cities – Vrindavan, Gokul, Nandgaon, and Barsana- I discovered myths and legends that fascinated me; I thought these would be of interest to many others, too. Both in India and abroad.

How has Krishna inspired the food sculpture and culture of Braj?

Juhi Sinha- The word ‘Braj’ is believed to have been inspired by the Sanskrit word meaning pasture, a place where herders and cattle breeders dwell, and Krishna’s father, Nand, was a prominent member of this community. It is said that he owned nearly one lakh head of cattle!

So, the sale of milk and milk products- dahi, khoya, butter, ghee, etc were all part of their vocation. Krishna’s love of freshly churned butter is well known. Even today, Braj is famous for its milk-based sweets- the Mathura peda is famous in India and in many countries abroad. 

Apart from food, the charismatic persona of Krishna has made him one of India’s most beloved Gods -his childhood pranks, his teasing interaction with the ’Gopi’s, and his romance with Radha have all inspired poets, painters, sculptures, music, and dance across the length and breadth of the country.

Will the book be helpful to tourists as well?

Juhi Sinha- I certainly believe it will. As a filmmaker, I have made several films/ documentaries on tourism, and my book Beyond the Dunes- Journeys in Rajasthan is a travelogue. I have frequently written for travel magazines, and a personalised style often connects more easily with the viewer/ reader. This book also has several descriptions of food, temples, shops, etc, all filtered through my own experiences. The book takes one through the ‘ gallis’ of the many legendary towns of Braj.

What is your next book likely to be?

Juhi Sinha- My next book will likely be a short story collection.