Significance of Viraha
Viraha is a term that encompasses the feelings of separation and longing in various contexts within Jainism, Vaishnavism, Indian history, and Kavyashastra. In Jainism, it is associated with Haribhadrasuri's life experiences. In Vaishnavism, viraha denotes the anguish of separation from Shri Krishna, impacting devotees deeply. Historically, it represents the separation between lovers in romantic narratives, while in Kavyashastra, it evokes distress in love. Overall, viraha signifies a potent emotional experience characterized by longing and despair.
Synonyms: Separation, Longing, Heartache, Sorrow, Absence, Yearning, Parting, Estrangement
In German: Viraha; In Finnish: Viraha; In Spanish: Viraha; In Swedish: Viraha; In Malay: Viraha; In Dutch: Virah
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Viraha'
Viraha in Hinduism encompasses emotional separation from Shri Krishna, embodying profound anguish and longing. This state evokes deep feelings of despair and reinforces the spiritual connection between the devotee and the Divine through the experience of love and separation.
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The anguish or suffering experienced due to separation from a beloved.[1] (2) The mood of separation from the Divine, which becomes a profound part of a devotee's spiritual experiences.[2] (3) Separation; a potent emotional experience that can evoke various feelings such as longing and despair.[3] (4) separation.[4]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The state of separation from Shri Krishna, characterized by anguish and longing.[5]
The concept of Viraha in local and regional sources
Viraha signifies the poignant separation between lovers, specifically the hero and heroine, often explored in Prabandhas, underscoring its central role in romantic themes and emotional expression within regional literary contexts.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term from Indian mysticism reflecting the consciousness of divine separation, especially articulated in the context of longing for Krsna.[6] (2) The state of separation between the hero and heroine expressed in Prabandhas, central to romantic themes.[7]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Viraha represents a location where Kirtana musical compositions are composed, and it is a place where authentic musical experiences are cultivated, because of the presence of deep feeling.[8]