Adhyaya 28

Chapter 28 lays out a step-by-step liturgical structure for worship of Vāsudeva. It opens with preparatory purification—ācamana and prāṇāyāma—followed by steadiness of mind, the formal declaration of deśa-kāla (ritual place and time), and salutations to one’s chosen deity. The worshipper then makes a saṅkalpa to perform the rite for the focused fulfillment of dharma, and undertakes nyāsa with prescribed Vaiṣṇava mantras. The text distinguishes mantra options by eligibility, giving sets for dvijas and an alternative triad for others, and affirms their use for both nyāsa and homa. The rite proceeds with nyāsa upon the icon and upon one’s own body, cleansing the arcā, placing a kalaśa to the left, invoking tīrthas, and offering upacāras with gandha and puṣpa. After sprinkling (prokṣaṇa), honoring conch and bell, and completing bhūtaśuddhi, the practitioner internalizes purification by “burning” the sin-constituted embodiment through inner fire and wind, and contemplates unity with brahman. The chapter then turns to dhyāna: visualization of the heart-lotus, the upward drawing of energies, and a detailed iconographic meditation on Śrī Kṛṣṇa as Rādhikāpati, followed by meditation on Rādhā. It culminates in worship of the Lord together with her.