Geography of Heaven: Vrindavan Radio Expeditions explores how shared beliefs about the afterlife -- and what is holy in this world -- shape the lives of the faithful, for good or ill. The journey begins in Vrindavan, the Indian city where the Hindu faithful believe the god Krishna once took human form.

Special Series

Geography of Heaven: Vrindavan

Our series on faith begins in the Indian city where Hindus believe the god Krishna took human form.

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The Streets of a Holy Hindu City

October 31, 2005 • Reminders of the Hindu faith are everywhere in Vrindavan — countless temples line the streets and pilgrims march in devotion. There is also stark, third-world poverty and suffering. But for the faithful, the city is a manifestation of heaven, here on Earth.

Pilgrims on the Path of Krishna

November 1, 2005 • Framed by the stones of ancient temples and bathing pools, marching Hindu pilgrims chant praise to Krishna and his consort, Radha. They touch the holy water of the Yamuna River and walk barefoot down the same paths they believe Krishna himself once trod.

The Embodiment of Earthly Divinity

November 2, 2005 • The focus of many worshippers in Vrindavan is the Sri Radha Raman Temple, where a black stone statue of Krishna sits enshrined and wrapped in saffron robes. Many consider the small stone statue to be Krishna himself.

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