Story/Legend:

According to Hindu mythology, Yamuna is a divine river goddess and is revered as the daughter of the sun god, Surya, and the sister of Yama, the lord of death. Legends describe her as a celestial being who descended from the heavens to bless the mortal realm with her divine presence. Yamuna is also considered to be a form of the goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and wisdom.

Religious Aspect:

Yamuna holds deep religious significance, particularly among followers of Vaishnavism, a major tradition within Hinduism. She is revered as a personification of the sacred Yamuna River, which flows through northern India and is intimately associated with Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Devotees consider her as a source of spiritual purification and seek her blessings for forgiveness, devotion, and liberation.

Description:

Yamuna is depicted as a four-armed goddess, standing in the pratyalidha pose, which signifies leaning towards her right side. This posture symbolizes her association with Lord Krishna, who is often depicted leaning towards her. She stands gracefully on a large tortoise, her sacred mount, representing stability and endurance.

Her hair is styled in the Jatamandala fashion, characterized by curly locks rising over her head. This unique hairstyle adds to her celestial beauty and highlights her divine nature. In her upper right hand, Yamuna carries a skullcup, representing spiritual nourishment and liberation from worldly attachments.

Cultural Importance:

Yamuna holds immense cultural importance, particularly in regions associated with the Yamuna River. The river itself is considered sacred and is believed to cleanse sins and bestow blessings upon those who bathe in its waters. Yamuna's depiction as a yogini reinforces her role as a divine guide and purifier. Devotees offer prayers and perform rituals dedicated to Yamuna, seeking her blessings for spiritual advancement, devotion, and forgiveness. The Yamuna Aarti, a ritualistic worship ceremony conducted on the banks of the river, is a common practice to honor and express gratitude to Yamuna.

Festivals:

Yamuna Jayanti, also known as Yamuna Chhath, is a significant festival celebrated in various parts of India to commemorate the birth of Yamuna. Devotees observe fasting and perform special prayers, seeking her blessings for spiritual purification and divine grace. Pilgrimages to the Yamuna River are also popular during this time, as devotees take holy dips to cleanse their souls and offer prayers.

Conclusion:

Yamuna, the serene and compassionate yogini, is deeply revered as the embodiment of the sacred Yamuna River. Her association with Lord Krishna and her role as a purifier of sins make her an integral part of Hindu religious practices. Devotees seek her blessings for spiritual cleansing, devotion, and liberation from worldly attachments. Yamuna's presence as a divine guide and protector is a testament to her significance as a yogini in the hearts of her followers.