UDHAU (UDHO) (also written as Uddhava or Oodho) Oodho, Akrura (of the Dwapara Age) and Trilochan, Namdev and Kabir (of Iron Age) got their sins effaced by remembering the Name of the Lord and the same Undeceivable Name, which ferries the saints across the world-ocean, came into the mind of Guru Amar Das. (Swayye Mahle Teeje Ke, p. 1393) Episode : Udhava was a friend and minister of Sri Krishna. He was present on the occasion of the Swayyamvara of Draupadi.
Once a king named Shalva besieged the city of Dwarka and it was Udhava, who saved the city. When Sri Krishna was brought by Akrura to Matbura, he killed Kansa and made Ugrasena the king. At that time Sri Krishna sent Udhava to Ambadi to know about the well-being of people there. The gopas and gopa women (cowherds) all met him eagerly to know about Sri Krishna. They were pleased to know about his welfare.
It was Udhava who was informed by Sri Krishna beforehand that the Yadava dynasty was going to end.Udhava wanted Sri Krishna to take him along with him to Vaikuntha. At that time Sri Krishna taught Udhava the doctrine that the human body and other material things of the universe were mere delusion. Sri Krishna also answered several questions about bondage and liberation. Udhava then left Dwarka, having come to know about the imminent destruction from Sri Krishna, for which he was permitted by Sri Krishna. Comments : It is said that Udhava, after leaving Dwaraka, went to the hermitage of Badarika and engaged himself in penance and devotion and ultimately attained deliverance
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
Udhau, also known as Uddhava or Udho, is a significant figure in Hindu mythology, particularly in the stories of Lord Krishna. He is remembered as a close friend, devotee, and minister of Krishna, playing a vital role in spreading Krishna’s teachings and philosophy.
Key Aspects of Udhau:
Role in Krishna’s Life:
- Udhau was a trusted companion and advisor to Krishna. He is often depicted as a wise and learned individual, deeply devoted to Krishna and his divine mission.
- Krishna sent Udhau to Vrindavan to deliver a message to the gopis (cowherd women) who were heartbroken after Krishna left for Mathura. This episode, known as the Uddhava Sandesh, is a poignant moment in the Bhagavata Purana, highlighting the gopis’ intense devotion and love for Krishna.
Teachings and Philosophy:
- Udhau is a key figure in Krishna’s discourse on bhakti yoga (the path of devotion). Through his interactions with the gopis, Udhau learns about the depth of their unconditional love and devotion, which transcends intellectual understanding.Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom to Udhau, emphasizing the impermanence of the material world and the importance of self-realization and liberation (moksha).
Symbolism:
- Udhau represents the intellectual seeker who, through devotion and humility, comes to understand the profound nature of divine love.
- His journey from intellectual pride to spiritual surrender is a recurring theme in his story.
Later Life:
- After Krishna’s departure from the mortal world, Udhau is said to have retreated to the Badarikashrama (a hermitage in the Himalayas) to meditate and engage in penance. He ultimately attained liberation through his devotion and wisdom.
Udhau’s story is a beautiful blend of devotion, wisdom, and the transformative power of divine love.
