The midday light warmed the gardens beside Radha-kunda. Radha and Krishna were surrounded by Their friends. After their joyful games, it was time for a meal. Vrinda led them to a beautifully prepared place. A shaded platform awaited them near the lotus temple. The greenery softened the heat of the day. The friends arranged the vessels they would need. Everyone looked forward to eating together.
A seat of flowers had been made ready for Krishna. Subala sat down at His left. Madhumangala took the place on His right. The other companions settled nearby. Large banana leaves were placed before them. Small cups waited to be filled with drinks. The fragrance of the dishes spread through the garden. Krishna smiled at His friends.
Radha joined the young women who served the meal. She had lovingly prepared some of the dishes. Her friends carried the plates with care. Vrinda saw that the guests received what they needed. There was ripe mango and refreshing coconut. Pomegranate seeds shone beside the other fruits. Delicious sweets were placed on the leaves as well. The many fragrances made the meal a celebration.
Krishna noticed Radha's care in the food prepared for Him. Radha made sure that every guest was served. Her friends helped Her with cheerful faces. Subala enjoyed the company of his companions. Madhumangala examined the sweets before him. His witty words soon drew everyone's attention. He knew how to turn a meal into a joke. His friends listened eagerly to what he would say.
Madhumangala began to judge the dishes. He praised one in an exaggeratedly serious voice. For another he found a funny criticism. Krishna and His companions laughed at his words. The young women also heard the merry debate. Madhumangala continued with more praise and jokes. Laughter brought everyone around the meal together. Radha rejoiced to see Krishna so happy.
Vrinda brought more dishes whenever they were needed. The young women saw that nobody went without food. Krishna tasted the different fruits and sweets. His friends enjoyed their midday rest around Him. Their conversation continued between mouthfuls. Madhumangala found another reason to make them laugh. The garden grew livelier with their voices. Radha and Her friends served them with joy.
When Krishna and His companions had finished their meal, Radha and Her friends sat down together. They shared what remained from the serving. Their happiness was joined to the happiness of their guests. Each remembered the cheerful words spoken at lunch. The company was filled with gratitude. Fruits and sweets passed from hand to hand. Thus the friends themselves enjoyed the meal together.
The helpers continued to care for the place. Tulasi and Rupa were among those who helped. Vrinda oversaw the preparations and the serving. Afterward they too had a chance to eat. Their service was not forgotten. Everyone who took part found a place in the celebration. Care for others returned as shared happiness. Peace gradually filled the garden.
After the meal came time for rest. The friends could sit in the shade of the trees. The scent of flowers remained in the air. Radha and Krishna were surrounded by close companions. Madhumangala's cheerful words were still remembered. The leaves moved quietly above them. The beauty of the lake accompanied the afternoon. The meal became part of their shared play.
This scene is retold from the fifteenth chapter. Here food is a gift prepared with attention. Radha's care appears in the dishes that are served. Krishna shares His joy with His friends. Madhumangala brings laughter with his witty remarks. Vrinda and the helpers look after everyone. Beside Radha-kunda, each person has a place at the feast. The story remembers the joy of caring and sharing.