Gujarat’s First 'Chal Man Vrindavan' Concert: A Divine Musical Experience in Gift City

Exclusive Interview with Achyuta Gopi

1. When and how did you develop an interest in singing Krishna bhajans?

I have been a Krishna devotee since birth. My parents have been practicing Krishna bhakti since 1974. When I was born, I was extremely weak, and my parents prayed for me continuously for two months. Every day, they would chant Hare Krishna and read from the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita beside me. After a long struggle, when I finally recovered, the first thing they did was take me to the Sri Sri Radha Govindji Temple in New York. Placing me at Krishna’s feet, they prayed, “Oh Lord, if it is Your will, please take care of this child.” From that moment, I feel that Sri Sri Radha Govindji has been guiding my path.

2. This is the first time a concert like this is happening in Gujarat. How do you feel about it?

I’m incredibly excited, but at the same time, I wonder—this is a land where people greet each other with “Jai Shri Krishna”, so why is this the first devotional concert of its kind here? We give importance to so many other things, yet Krishna bhakti should always be at the center. Since arriving, I have seen various concert billboards in the city, and I felt that Krishna has made a home here too. This should be a regular occurrence, and I hope we continue to organize such events.

3. What does spirituality mean to you?

Spirituality is our natural state. Many things in life are imposed upon us, but spirituality is something that already exists within. The real process of spiritual awakening is about removing the obstacles that block our connection with Krishna. Love for Krishna is innate; we simply need to clear the distractions that stand in the way. That divine love for God is our birthright.

4. How many times have you read the Bhagavad Gita?

Reading the Bhagavad Gita is an ongoing journey. So far, I have read it seven times, but it’s not about just reading verses to impress others. For me, the Gita is a daily guide. Every morning, I ask myself, “What is my Lord telling me today?” I encourage everyone to do this—if you wake up with a question and open the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna will answer you. It’s as if Krishna sends you a love letter every day!