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Vrindavana is the name of a mythic forest or forested region in Northern India, in which the Hindu deity Krishna spent his childhood. He was raised there in the cowherding village of Gokula by foster parents.
Two major categories of the stories of Krishna are placed in this forest. First, there are the stories of him as a child, killing demons, stealing butter and indulging in childhood pranks. Secondly, there are the stories of him as a young man, playing with the girls and young women of the village. These inspired the works of the Gita Govinda.
In later times the name of the forest has often been used within Hindu India, to represent an idyllic place or garden.
The modern town of Vrindavan, situated 15km from Mathura, is believed to be on the site of the original forest.
The name may also be written in other variations, including Vrindaban, Brindavan, or Brindavana.
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