bhaktiratnakara

8/6/2019 Bhaktiratnakara

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BHAKTIRATNAKARACHAPTER 1

Glorification of the Vaisnava PrabhusO my Lord Gaurahari, You are the abode of

auspiciousness which is asbeautiful as the kirtana of Krsna. You are the oce

of elegance,estower of constant flow of devotion and mountaof love which is as

bright as gold. Your beautiful features give soothinrelief to the eyes

of every living being and you are mankind'ssalvation from all kinds of

misfortune. You are the center of the Lila Vilasaand the life of the

devotees. Be kind to me.1

O my Prabhu, Sri Gopala Bhatta, the bee at thelotus like feet of Sri

Gaura. You are the sun which destroys the darkneof illusion, the

ocean of kindness and the greatest of all the


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brahmanas. You are theson of Sri Venkata Bhatta and a valuable ornamen

of divine love and

devotion. You are the destroyer of worldly miseriand a resort ofhappiness to the misery stricken people. O Lord

save me.2O my Prabhu, Srila Gopala Bhatta, a bee at the

lotus like feet ofMahaprabhu. You are the most skillful devotee o

the Lord. O myPrabhu Srinivasa, whose complexion is as golden

Sri Sacinandana,

you are the king amongst all the brahmanas. Pleabless me.3

I constantly worship the companions of SrinivasPrabhu who is like the

wishing tree of devotional love of Sri Krsna

Caitanya Candra. 4My dear listeners, please repeatedly and joyfully

hear theBhaktiratnakara which is the life of all Vaisnava


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and the destroyer ofall miseries and misfortunes.5

Glorification of Sri Gaura Sundara and his

companionsAll glories to Sri Krsna Caitanya, the God of God

who was a lover ofdevotion and whose beautiful features fascinated

the whole world.6He was the husband of Laksmi and son of motheSaci and Jagannatha.

He was the life and soul of Nityananda, Advaitaand Gadadhara. 7

O my Lord, even the Vedas have glorified you anthere is no one who

is not attracted by Your lila.8You are the guru, the power of devotion and an

incarnation of Lord

Visnu. You have manifested your Vilasa throughthese features. 9

The experts in Vaisnava religion always try toglorify your vilasa which

n their opinion is the source of well being and goo


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fortune.10 worship these Vaisnava gurus without considerin

their education and

culture; Srivasa and his devotional companions,Advaita Prabhu and hisdevotional followers, Prabhu Sri Nityananda and

his associates, SriGadadhara and his followers and Sri Krsna

Caitanya the LordHimself.11

Krsna used to show his vilasa through six channelGuru, Krsna,

devotee (bhakta) power (sakti) incarnation

(avatara) and revealment(Prakash).12

Except by His favor no one had the ability tounderstand the mysterious

ways of the Lord's divine lila.13

You are the Lord Himself, the only resort of allliving beings. I dare not

speak a word against Your will. 14All glories to Sri Guru Krsna Caitanya, the mine


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valuable gems likekindness and the giver of devotional love.15

All glories to Nityananda Rama who was the Oceaof kindness and

mercy, the rescuer of the universe and friend of thpoor and

unfortunate.16You are the original embodiment of Mahaprabhu

Krsna Caitanya andthe only person who can fulfil the desires ofmankind.17

All glories to Sri Advaita Deva the kind heartedsavior of all

mankind.18You are a part (amsa avatar) of Krsna Caitanya.

have not the audacityto attempt to describe your glory.19

All glories to Sri Gadadhara Pandita Gosvami wh

was the greatestinheritor of the Power of Mahaprabhu and whos

devotional qualitiesoverflowed their boundaries.20

All glories to Srivasa Pandita who was the greates


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of all the devoteesand whose devotional character was unobtainabl

even by the Gods.21

All glories to Sri Svarupa, Vakreswara, Sri Murarand Haridasa.All glories to Narahari, Gauradasa, Suklambara, S

Mukunda, Vasu,Madhava and Sankara.23

All glories to Vidyanidhi Pundarika and VasudevSarvabhaumaBattacarya.24

All glories to Gadadhara Dasa Pandita, Jagadisa anKashishwara.25

All glories to Sri Paramananda Bhattacarya andKrsnadasa Brahmacari.

26All glories to the son of the Acarya, Dvija Harida

and lotus eyed Rai

Ramananda.27All glories to Lokanatha, Sri Bhugarbha, Sanatan

and Rupa.28All glories to Kashi Misra, Gopinatha, Sastidhara


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Caitanya candra.37Sri Krsna Caitanya was the life of all his devotee

who were very

fortunate, having received his favor. 38Unlimited descriptions rush to mind in describinthe characters of the

devotees of Mahaprabhu Caitanya who was alwayinclined to fulfil the

desires of those devotees.39Gauracandra behaved lovingly with His devotees o

whose supplicationHe had agreed to incarnate in this world.40

The lila that Gaurahari enacted in the Kaliyuga w

beyond thecomprehension of Brahma, Siva and other

demigods.41That beautiful lila of Sri Caitanya was divided int

three segments

beginning, middle and final.42The first portion dealt with Sri Caitanya as a

scholar , middle portiondealt with the revealment of the glory of kirtana.4


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The last portion dealt with Gauracandra's life inNilacala as a sannyasi

after he commanded Nityananda to takeresponsibility for

Gaudadesh.44The Kali Yuga was grateful for the presence of Sr

Krsna Caitanya as aglorious sannyasi along with His associates

Nityananda and Advaita.45Prabhu Advaita and Nityananda, the incarnation Haladhara

Balarama, were the inseparable bodies of SriCaitanya.46

Who could realize the devotional sincerity ofNityananda and Advaita,

who always used to swim in the ocean of love of SCaitanya?47

Who does not wish to hear the nectarine

conversations of Nityanandaand Advaita?48

Long live these two great devotees of Sri CaitanyaI wish I had the

power to sing their glories in countries near and


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far.49In Navadvipa, Mahaprabhu Gauracandra,

Nityananda and Advaita

performed many delightful pastimes.50The devotees of Mahaprabhu relished thesenectarine pastimes

continuously.51The Universe was purified by these transcendent

lilas of Gauranga,but the enemies of the Vaisnavas were ever

deprived of the pleasure ofthose pastimes.52

Those who received the favorable touch of the

Lord's devotees sankdeep in the ocean of devotional love.53

Mahaprabhu had done two types of sport namelyappearance (prakat)

and disappearance (aprakat). Sometimes

Mahaprabhu appeared andsometime disappeared before his devotees.54But while in appearance or in disappearance,

Mahaprabhu behaved the


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same with his devotees. 55All the Vaisnava scriptures have described the

Nadia Vihara ofSacinandana.56

In Caitanya Bhagavata it is stated: Gaurarai isenacting His lila even

oday in Nadia, but only a fortunate person gets thopportunity to

observe it.57Mahaprabhu's devotion to Nadia Dharma is aknown fact. Whoever

denies it is simply a sinner.58Daily we worship that Caitanya, Advaita and

Nityananda who revealedthemselves wearing the Brahmasutra and existed

with their externalcompanions in the abode of religion.59

Sri Vrndavana Candra Gaura took the pleasure i

strolling throughNadia followed by devotees of many different

religious sects.60Navadvipa and Vrndavana were non different. I

one place


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Mahaprabhu exhibited his pastimes and in the othplace Syama.

Navadvipa and Vrndavana seemed to be two

different places only tothose who had no knowledge of the real identity oMahaprabhu as the

incarnation of Shyama.62Only those who regarded both Gaura and Krsna a

their life and soul,ould understand that Navadvipa was identical wi

VrndavanaBy getting the favor of Mahaprabhu one could

realize that the vilasa of

Navadvipa was non different from the vilasa ofVrndavana.64

Long live the devotees of Mahaprabhu. Now plealisten to my

narration. 65

I would like to describe some aspects of Sri GopalBhatta's life and

character.66Sri Gopala was a great devotee and lover of the Lo


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who had takenGauracandra as his life and soul.67

Srinivasa Acarya, the monarch in the realm of lovwas the most

favorite disciple of Sri Gopala Bhatta. 68The followers of Srinivasa Acarya also became ve

famous for theirdevotional attachment to the Lord.69

I want to elaborately describe the lives of thosedevotees for whomGauranga and his associates were the only refuge.O listeners, I request you again and again to thin

only of Sri Krsna

Caitanya and nothing else.71The real glory of Gauracandra in this world was

that he could bedominated by those devotees who had nothing bu

Him within their

hearts.72Sri Krsna caitanya Mahaprabhu was the life of H

devotees and thedevotees were the only concern of the Lord.73

According to the wish of Mahaprabhu, the devote


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took birth indifferent places and the Lord could meet them fro

time to time.

The expert writers of Vaisnava literature havedescribed the meetings ofMahaprabhu with His devotees.75

Those who deny the truth of the relationshipbetween the Lord and His

devotees are sure to perish.76I advise both devotees and lay men to accept this

universal truth andnot to try to speculate on it.77

The sincere desire of the devotees is certainly mo

powerful than theLord Himself, for Mahaprabhu adores the

devotional qualities of Hisown servants.78

Sometimes Mahaprabhu would go to meet his

devotees, and at othertimes the devotees would go to meet Him.79

The particulars about the ancestors of Sri GopalaBhatta


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Mahaprabhu met Sri Gopala Bhatta in SouthIndia.80

I shall summarize the history of the Bhatta familySri Gopala Bhatta

was the son of Sri Venkata Bhatta.81Sri Venkata Bhatta lived in the south and was a

renowned brahminscholar of all sastras.82

Trimalla, Venkata and Sri Prabodha nanda werethree brothers ofwhom Sri Gaura candra was the very life and

soul.83Formerly they were worshippers of Sri Laksmi

Narayana, but by thefavor of Mahaprabhu they later became great

devotees of RadhaKrsna.84

During his visit to the South, Mahaprabhu

Gaurahari spent four happymonths in the house of the Bhattas.85

In the book Caitanya Caritamrta, there was abeautiful description of

the Lord's Southern tour.86


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There was no mention of Gopala Bhatta in theCaitanya Caritamrta but

his family is mentioned.87

In Caitanya Caritamrta (madhu kanda 9/82-83)there is mention of aVaisnava named Sri Venkata Bhatta who

respectfully invitedMahaprabhu to his house.88

He washed the feet of the Lord and drank the watwith all the

members of his family.89It was said that Gopala, the son of Venkata becam

ecstatically

emotional by drinking that water.90Although he tried to control his body it shivered

ecstatic love.91Gopala was a beautiful young man whose

complexion was as bright as a

golden champaka flower. 92His lotus like face had large eyes and eyebrows an

his nose andforehead bore the bright tilaka of the Vaisnavas.9


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How beautiful were his ears and neck. Howbeautiful were his hands,chest and thin waist.94

How beautiful were his shank, knees, reddish feetHe wore bright

clothes and was decorated with many ornaments.9Everyone was fascinated by his ever increasing

beauty and his

manliness.96Having received Mahaprabhu - his life and soul Gopala engage himself

most gladly in the Lord's service.97I worship Sri Gopala Bhatta Prabhu who was the

best of all brahmanasand was engaged with utmost sincerity in the

service of Sri CaitanyaMahaprabhu.98

I am unable to describe how Gaurahari favored S

Gopala Bhatta.

The character of Sri Gopala BhattaNevertheless I shall attempt to describe the

character of Gopala who


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was always engaged in the service of SriMahaprabhu.100

He was not satisfied to see Mahaprabhu as an

ascetic but he lamentedprivately.101He addressed Providence with a choked voice, "O

Providence, why was Iborn in this far away place?102

Why have you forced me to see Mahaprabhu in thdress of an ascetic

and deprived me from observing His pastimes inNadia?103

"How cruel you are to allow Him the life of a

renunciate when I long tosee Him as Vrajendra Nandana, the Lord of Sri

Radhika."Lamenting in this way he wept like a mad man an

breathed a heavy

sigh as hot as fire.105Forgiving Providence, Gopala then lamented tha

the ill fortune was hisown fault.106


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Having spent himself in lamentation, Gopalaremained reticent yet

Gaurahari could understand the state of Gopala'mind.107

When Gopala fell asleep, the Lord of Navadvipaappeared to him in a

dream.108Lord Gaurasundara strolling through the streets o

Navadvipa and hewas there with him.109Nityananda and Advaita took him lovingly in the

arms but when theywere about to tell him something, he woke up from

his sleep.Gopala looked around in bewilderment and them

went impatiently tofind Sri Gaura.111

Mahaprabhu was delighted and revealed Himself

the form of acowherd boy with a blue complexion.112

The divine beauty remained but in a few momentthe blue complexion

turned golden.113


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The glow of Gaurasundara's beauty enchanted thuniverse. How

beautiful was that hair that curled across His

shoulders.114His forehead was decorated by Vaisnava tilaka, heyebrows were

dramatically raised and his magnificent glance stothe hearts of all the

ladies.115His beautiful face defeated the pride of the autum

moon and His smileshowered nectar.116

His beautiful dhoti was wrapped with three folds

and decorated withvarious ornaments, His gestures and postures wer

fascinating.117The garland of malati flowers hanging round

Nimai's neck enchanted

Gopala.118He fell to the feet of Mahaprabhu and again looke

at his face withexpectation, but the Lord had reassumed His ascet


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form.119Mahaprabhu Gauracandra pacified Gopala and ga

him directinstructions.120

He ordered him to go to Vrndavana as soon aspossible for there he

would meet two valuable jewels namely Rupa andSanatana.121

"Tell them about My desire," said Mahaprabhu. "IVrndavana, you willget many disciples from all over the world."122

Having instructed Gopala, Mahaprabhu took him his lap and soaked

his body with tears from His own eyes.123Mahaprabhu advised Gopala to keep the

instructions confidential andnot discus them with anyone. Gopala was very

happy with that.124

Sri Venkata Bhatta was satisfied seeing the sinceriwith which Gopala

served Sri Gauranga.125He dedicated his son to the gracious feet of

Gauracandra and became


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truly happy. Thereafter Gopala spent his days annights with SriGaurahari.126

The thought that Mahaprabhu would leave theirhouse after fourmonths made the three brothers morose.127Trimalla, Venkata and Sri Prabodha nanda

wondered how they could

spend their days without Mahaprabhu.128"Who will joke with us" they asked each other.

"Who will accompany uswhile we bathe in the river Kaveri?129

"Who will perform san kirtana in the temple of

Ranganatha and whowill give worthless fellows like us the gem of

devotion?130Without Mahaprabhu's presence these crowds wi

all disperse and the

holy place shall be vacant."131Though tears streamed silently down their faces

they did not disclosetheir worries to any one.132


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At the end of the scheduled four months whenMahaprabhu actually left

their houses, they cried out in despair.133As the Lord left their house, the Bhatta's fell on th

ground at Hisfeet.134

Mahaprabhu pacified the three brothers byembracing them

affectionately.135After pacifying Gopala, Mahaprabhu continued oHis Southern tour.

At last He reached Nilacala where He met Hisassociates and

devotees.136He visited Gauda and Vrndavana where He also

met many of Hisdevotees.137

The great ascetic Sri Krsna Caitanya gratified th

Kali Yuga with helpof his devotees.138

Wherever he went he informed his devotees that hhad decided to stay

in Nilacala.139


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But in South India Sri Venkata Bhatta and his twbrothers grew

morose because of the separation from Sri

Caitanya.140In the absence of his master Sri Gopala's state ofmind was beyond

description.141He reflected on that moment of separation when

Mahaprabhu hadassured him that his desires would soon be

fulfilled.142He thought of Mahaprabhu's promise to take him

Vrndavana.143

Gopala remained absorbed in love of Sri Gaurangand his fame in

explaining devotional doctrines began to spreadthroughout the

country.144

His pleasure was derived from spreading the gloriof Sri Gauranga

and defeating the views of the illusionists.145Educated people eulogized Gopala Bhatta and


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was bothaffectionate and poetic. He was an expert in

singing, playing musical

instruments and dancing.152The book of verse compiled by Sri Gopala Bhattafor which

Prabhonanda should be given first credit - uses toenchant both the

readers and the listeners.153In this way, everyone praised Sri Prabodhananda

and Gopala, hisnephew who was highly learned and also kind

hearted.154-155

Sri Gopala took serious responsibility in lookingafter his parents who

were always satisfied with him.156Once a brahmin told Sri Venkata Bhatta, "You mu

be proud to be the

father of a son who is illustrious in every way.157"I have never seen such deep devotion as your son

exhibits nor suchsubmission toward parents."158


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Venkata Bhatta was delighted to tell the brahminabout Gopala's life

long endurance to be a great man.159Gopala had eagerly anticipated seeing Lord

Jagannatha in Nilacala andat the same time he was interested in learning

Vyakarana and otherscriptures.160

Sri Venkata Bhatta also told the brahmin how hison Gopala hadshown sincerity in serving Sri Krsna Caitanya, th

Absolute Being.161The brahmin enjoyed the stories about Gopala an

admired SriVenkata Bhatta for being the happy father of such

fine son.Thereafter the brahmin returned home.162

The parents of Gopala were certainly fortunate t

have a son who hadfully dedicated himself to the gracious feet of Sr

Caitanya.163They gladly lpermitted their son to go to Vrndava

and thereafter they


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uttered the name of Mahaprabhu and left the worforever.164

After sometime Gopala met Rupa and Sanatana i

Vrndavana.165Although Sri Caitanya was in Nilacala at that timbecause he was God

Himself He could understand that Gopala had gonto Vrndavana.166

One day he left he house of Misra and went to meGopinatha andGadadhara.167

The attraction Gouracandra felt towardsGadadhara was a precious

emotion which only a vastly fortunate man couldhave deserved.168

Similarly the depth of the friendships betweenNityananda and

Gadadhara was beyond ordinary comprehension.1

Descriptions of the interactions between Gadadhaand Advaita used

to give a sense of soothing relief to those who heathem.


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Srivasa Pandita always admired Sri PanditaGadadhara and considered

him more dear than his own life. 171No one culd understand what happiness lay in th

relation betweenPrabhu Haridasa and Prabhu Gadadhara.172

Nor could they grasp what sort of love prevailedbetween Pandita Sri

Gadadhara and Dasa Gadadhara.173No human being exists who can adequately descrithe loving

relationship between Gadadhara and his Lord SrGaurasundara.174

In the house of Gadadhara, Mahaprabhu and hisdevotees used to take

their seats.175Only the most fortunate could witness the beautif

scene.176

The great ascetic, Mahaprabhu Gaurarai, softlyspoke His mind to the

devotees.177" I feel concerned because I have not received an

news from Vraja for a


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long time."178He told the devotees that he wanted to send som

letters to Vrndavana,

but as He spoke, a letter arrived from Rupa andSanatana in Vrajagiving news of Gopala Bhatta's arrival there.

In His enthusiam over the letter, Mahaprabhubegan to describe Gopala

to his devotees.181"During My southern tour, I had the pleasure of

staying at the house ofVenkata Bhatta.182

"There I met Sri Bhatta's son Gopala who had

already proven himself agreat scholar of all scriptures.183

"With the permission of his father, Gopala hadgladly served Me with

great sincerity.184

"Lord Krsna has been kind to him and he has nowgone to live inVrndavana.185

"Rupa and Sanatana are very dear to Me and the


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sent Me a letter assoon as Gopala arrived there."186

Mahaprabhu's devotees were happy to hear the Lorelate His story.

The Lord praised Rupa and Sanatana and then sethem His reply.

He wrote, "I am glad to hear of Gopala's arrival inVrndavana. You

should accept him as your own brother.189"Continue to send Me letters from time to timeinforming Me of your

welfare and activities.190"The books which you have already written and

those which you arecurrently writing will later be well accepted by th

world.191The person who will help to circulate all books, h

now arrived by the

wish of Lord Krsna."192Mahaprabhu ordered a person to take the letter an

many clothes forhis Vrndavana disciples and to leave without dela

for Vraja.


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When the coruier met the Gosvamis in Vrndavanhe delivered the

doras, Kaupinas and outer garments along with th

letter.194I dare not attempt to describe how joyfully theGosvamis received the

gifts and letter from Mahaprabhu.195Sri Rupa and Sri Sanatana lovingly accepted Sri

Gopala as theirbrother.196

An internal revelation helped Gopala identifySanatana Gosvami at

once.197

Sri Sanatana Gosvami described the book Sri HaBhakti Vilasa to

Gopala.198While listening to the book, Gopala harbored a

secret to serve the deity

of the Lord. One night in a dream, Sri Govinda dtold Rupa about

Gopala's desrie.199Under Sri Rupa's affectionate guidance Gopala


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learned to serve SriRadha Raman.200

This subject shall be discussed in detail later, but fnow I will say that

Gopala's effort in serving the Lord was verysincere.201

Lokanatha, Bhugarva, Pandita Kasiwara, SriParamananda and the

other devotees all showered thier love on GopalaBhatta.202-203He liked to spend his days with Rupa Sanatana

discussing the lovingpastimes of Sri Krsna Caitanya.204

Sri Gopala's heart swelled with love for Sanatanawhile a deep

friendship grew between him and Sri Rupa.205But above all other relationships, Sri Bhatta

relished his absorbtion in

the service of Sri Radha Raman.206By dint of his knowledge and devotion, Gopala

could satisfy anyone'sdesirea, and he soon became dear to everyone in

Vrndavana.207


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Vrndavana dasa was the incarnationof Sri Vyasadeva, yet on the advice

of Veda Vyasa, he did not describe that part of thLord's lila.214

Being empowered by Veda Vyasa, Sri KrsnadasaKaviraja took pleasure

n elaborately describing that South Indian tour.2But he also omitted certain parts so that later poe

could elaborate onthem just as a guru keeps remnants of food for hidisciples to accept as

prasadam.216-217A laymen cannot understand the writing of a grea

poet so peopleshould give up their speculations on such writing

and simply try toaccept them as they are.218

Before attempting to write about Mahaprabhu an

His associates SriKaviraja made a serious effort to understand thei

characters indepth.219

Vaisnava poets would always approach the devote


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of Mahaprabhu inorder to understand their desires. After taking

their guidance and

permission the poets would write.220Having taken permission from many devotees,Krsnadasa kaviraja wrote

several books.221Sri Gopala Bhatta would not permit his name to b

mentioned in amyof the books although he did authorize and

encourage Sri Kaviraja towrite.222

As ignorant persons we will never know why

Gopala Bhatta forbade hisname to be mentioned. Perhaps his humility did

not allow it.Kaviraja had'nt the audicity to flout his order an

thus Gopala's name is

mentioned rarely in Sri Kaviraja's book.224I have heard from an old Vaisnava that Lokanath

Gosvami gave thesame order that his name not be used.225


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Krsnadasa Kaviraja took pleasure in writing theinfrequent passages

which glorified Gopala Bhatta, and he never toldSri Bhatta how he had

written them.226I cannot write extentively about the depth of

knowledge of Sri GopalaBhatta during his life in Vrndavana for fear the

book will become toolarge.227Sri Bhatta had given many comments on the boo

Krsnakarmamrtawhich gave much pleasure to all the Vaisnavas.22

Sri Gopala Bhatta, a remarkable person in the patof pure devotion

had performed many supernatural activities.229At a much later time, Srinivasa met him and got h

desires fulfilled.230

On the order of Mahaprabhu, Srinivasa took hisinitiation from Gopala

Bhatta and later propagated the Gosvami scripturin Gauda.231

Mahaprabhu empowered Sri Rupa and others to


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write and compilecriptures on Vaisnava religion, for the propogatio

of those scriptures

he empowered Srinivasa.232Acarya and Sri Thakura Mahasaya were of the samsoul in their

devotion to Mahaprabhu. Thakura Mahasaya harevealed the powers

of both Rupa Gosvami and Srinivasa in hisslokas.233

The slokas by Thakura Mahasaya say: "When shalbe able to find Sri

Caitanya deva, the ocean of kindness, within the

range of my vision?His aim was to create many Vaisnava scriptures

through the intellect ofSri Rupa and others to later disseminate those

scriptures to the people

of the world through the efforts of Srinivasa."234Srinivasa Acarya was a grea scholar who benedict

the world bydistributing those valuable Vaisnava books.235


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By the wish of Mahaprabhu, he had many discipleamong whom

Ramacandra, Gokula and others became veryfamous.236

I want to tell the entire world about SriRamacandra and Sri

Gokulananda.237Ramacandra and Govinda were two famous

brothers whose father wasChiranjiva and maternal grandfather wasDamodara.238

Damodara Sena lived in Sri Khanda and was famofor his great poetic

genius.239Sri Sangita Madhava by Sri Govinda Kaviraja say

Th unparallel poetDamodara Vasuki of the nether world, the greate

scholar Vrihaspati

f the Heaven and the charitable Sri GovardhanaGaudadesa.240

No one was capable of defeating Damodara indebates for he was not

only a poet but a great rationalist.241


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Once a world famous scholar who had been easildefeated by him

cursed him to never have any male issue in that

lifetime.242Damodara went to great lengths to pacify thescholar who at last blessed

him that he would have a daughter who would befamous throughout

the world.243Your daughter will give birth to two illustrious so

who will benedicthe world by removing all inauspiciousness", said t

scholar. 244

Later on Damodara didi get a daughter namedSunanda who was not

only beautiful but also a reservior og goodqualities.245

The ladies of Sri Khanda appreciated her good

disposition and when shewas old enough for marriage they searched for a

suitablebridegroom.246


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Damodara Kaviraja selected Chiranjiva as the mosuitable husband for

his daughter and gladly gave her in marriage.247Although I would like to descirbe the marriage

ceremony in detail, I willrestrain myself as the information is superfluous

In a village named Kumara Nagara on the bank othe river Nagirathi,

many Vaisnavas lived peacefully.249It had been Chiranjiva Sena's home as well, andafter his marriage to

Sunanda he decided to settle in Sri Khanda.250Chiranjiva Sena was very popular in Sri Khanda.2

He was an an associate of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhand he indulged in

unrestrained san kirtana.252He was reknown for his kindness in distributing

devotional love to the

poor and neglected people.253The author of Sri Caitanya Caritamrta mentione

Chiranjiva Senaamongst the associates of Mahaprabhu.254

According to Sri Caitanya Caritamrta (Madhya 9


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92) "Mukunda dasa,Narahari, Sri Raghunandana, Chiranjiva of Khan

and Sulchama" were

also his associates.255Chiranjiva Sena was a great scholar who used tolive happily with his

wife in Sri Khanda.256She was as submissive to her husband as Arundhu

the illustrious wifeof the saint Vashistha. She was a very well behav

lady and a reserviorof supernatural powers.257

Sri Ramacandra KavirajaRamacandra was a illustrious as his parents and h

brother Mahanandawas born after his brother.258

From his very childhood, ramacandra had a grea

leaning towardseligion and used to behave with the neighbors fro

a very impartialpoint of view.259


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He was a man of high spirits and was as beautiful Madana, the God

of Beauty. He quickly and easily gained knowledgof all types ofscriptures.260

Observing Ramacandra's uniqued qualities,intelligent people began to

speculate tha the might be an incarnation of som

deity.By his own will he had taken birth in a Vaidyafamily and thus people

thought he was an ordinary person.262The Vaisnavas began to think that if he chose th

path of a Vaisnava, hecould get many Vaisnava companions in future.26As time passed, people began to take more and mo

interest inRamacandra.264

I will not describe the circumstances under whichRamacandra became

a disciple of Srinivasa Acarya.265But I would like to describe the incident in

Vrndavana from which


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Ramacandra got his title Kaviraja.266Sri Paramananda Bhattacarya, Sri Jiva Gosvami an

the inhabitants of

Vrndavana were all enchanted by the poetry ofRamacandra and theyconfirmed the title of Kaviraja.267-268

Ramacandra Kaviraja was a very qualified man anan intimate

associate of Narottama Mahasaya.269In the drama Sri Sangita Madhava the same

information aboutRamacandra has been quoted.270

I will discuss the relation between Ramacandra an

Narottama later on,but here I aam giving it in a nutshell.27

Kaviraja and Narottama insiparable and people usto utter their

names as though they were one person - like Nara

Narayan.272-273They appeared in this world to bring happiness t

mankind.274As brillant scholars of scriptures they easily


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defeated the views of theheretics.275

They were expert in teaching the science ofdevotion and their genius

was universally accepted.276n the book Sri Sangita Madhava the same has bee

quoted.277

Sri NarottamaSri Narottama was a great Vaisnava and a life lonbrahmacari who had

visited all the holy places.278In Sri Sangita Madhava the same description of

Narottama has beengiven.279

Ordinary people could not understand the depth Narottama's

character. He had taken birth simply out of

attraction for SriCaitanya.280

Narottama was born on the day of the full moon ithe month of

Magha. Just as the moon grows fuller day by day s


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Narottama's fatherand uncle were called to Gauda for some importan

business with theking.287

He took their absence as a chance to deceive hiscaretaker, console his

mother and leave his home.288His loving mother Narayani, was a sweet natured

woman. 289Their relationship had been close and confidentand she had never

suspected her son might leave home forever.290Narottama cautiously left his house, carrying the

memory of the feet ofMahaprabhu in his mind.291

On the day of the full moon in the month ofKartika Narottama left his

house as a bright and beautiful young man.292

He visited many holy places before reachingVrndavana where he took

initiation from Lokanath Gosvami.293Lokanatha accepted Narottama as his disciple on

the day of the full


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moon in the month of Sravana.294

Sri Lokanatha

I would like to describe the wonderful character oSri Lokanatha.295His father was Padmanava Cakravarti, his mothe

was Sita and theylived in the village of Talakhaina in Jessore

district.296In the book Prachinairuktama, the geneology of S

Lokanatha's familyhas been given.297

The old brahmana Padmanava was the father of

Lokanatha and afavorite associate of Advaita Prabhu.298

Lokanatha, however felt no attachment for hishome and left it to join

Mahaprabhu in Navadvipa.299

Mahaprabhu Gauracandra showered Lokanathawith favor and advised

him to leave for Vrndavana immdiately.300Mahaprabhu purposuley ordered him to go becaus


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he would acceptthe life of an ascetic.301

As an ascetic Mahaprabhu would travel toVrndavana and he sent

Lokanatha there in advance.302Lokanath understood the Lord's intentions and

kwew that Mahaprabhuwuld accept sannyas in a day or two.303

How could the intimate associates of Mahaprabhtolerate he haircutting ceremony when the Lord would discard h

beautiful curlylocks.304

Lokanatha could not even think to of the scene anfell crying at the

feet of Mahaprabhu.305The Supreme Lord Mahaprabhu understood the

mind o Likenath,

consoled him in an affectionate embrace andsilently directed him to go

to Vrndavana.306Lokanatha dedicated himself to the gracious feet o

Mahaprabhu,


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bowed at the feet of the associates of Mahaprabhand left

Navadvipa.307

He wandered with aheavy heart, visiting many hoplaces before hereached Vrndavana.308

Caitanya Mahaprabhu who was always bound by tlove of his

devotees, accepted the like of an ascetic and went Nilacala to see

Nilacala candra.309From there Mahaprabhu travelled to South India

When Lokanatha

heard about Mahaprabhu's intinary he also startefor the South.310

From South India Mahaprabhu went to VrndavanLokanatha got

news of that and immediatetly headed toward

Vraja. 311From Vrndavana Mahaprabhu started for Prayag

and when Lokanathheard that he became extremely perturbed.312


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He resolved to go to Prayag on the followingmorning but Mahaprabhu

appeared to him in a dream and ordered him to stin Vrndavana.

Lokanatha could not disobey the order ofMahaprabhu and remianed

in seclusion on Vrndavana.314After a long time he met Rupa Sanatana in

Vrndavana and theybecame very happy in each other's association.31He also met Sri Gopala Bhatta and others who

accepted him veryaffectionately.316

The relation between Bhugarva and Lokanatha wso intimate that

their seperate bodies seemed to be the onlydifference between them.

317

Prabhu Lokanatha became experienced in everyevery sphere of life and

remained in the serivce of Srimat Govinda andothers for a long

time.318


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His absorbtion in divine love and distaste forworldly matters made him

illustrious throughout the world.319

In the book Hari Bhakti Vilasa, Gosvami SanatanmentionedLokanatha's name while starting Mangala

charana.320He wrote, " May Sri Kashiswara Gosvami Prabhu

increase the beauty ofVrndavana by his presence and may Krsnadasa

Kaviraja Prabhu and SriLokanatha Prabhu also shine there.321

At the beginning of the book Sri Vaisnava Tosin

he mentionedLokanatha's name for auspiciousness.322

"I sing the praise of Srimat Kashiswara, SrimatLokanatha and Srimat

Krsnadasa Prabhu who have dedicated themselve

to the feet of LordSri Govinda.323

Lokanatha took pleasure in visiting all the places Vrndavana where


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Krsna had enacted his pastimes.324Kishori Kunda was a holy spot in the village of

Umrao nearChatravana.325

Lokanatha decided to live there in seculsioncherishing the hope that he

could one day serve the deity of Krsna.326Mahaprabhu understood the desire of Lokanatha

and appeared beforehim disguised and carrying a deity of Krsna. 327He put the deity named Radha Vinod in

Lokanatha's hands andimmediately disappeared.328

Lokanatha could not understand who had givenhim such a beautiful

deity nor where the person had gone.329Seeing Lokanatha's bewildered state Sri Radha

Vinod smiled and

explained.330I have been staying in a forest near Kisori Kunda

this village Umrao.I could understand that you were not satisfied so

came to you on my


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own without taking anyone's help. Now please feeme." Lokanatha

could only stand with tears flowing from his

eyes.330-333Yet he hurriedly cooked some food and offered it Radha Vinod.

Then he made a bed of flowers and requested thedeity to lie down

there.334Lokanatha fanned him with a leaf and then

massaged his legs gaininggreat satisfaction.335

He wholly dedicated himself to the feet of

Mahaprabhu and becameabsorbed in the nectar like beauty of

Mahaprabhu.336He hastily sewed together a small cloth bag as a

temple for the deity.337

The small bag glowed with a divine light.Lokanatha hung it round his

neck and carried Radha Vinod with him wherevehe went.


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The people of the village wanted to build a cottagfor Lokanatha but

he was quite satisfied living under a tree and did nwant a cottage.339

Lokanatha did not have the slightest interest in hown needs or

comforts. ordinary people could not realize thedepth of his

detachment.340After living a long time in Umrao Lokanatha wento Vrndavana where

the Gosvamis heartly accepted him and cared fohim.341

He lived there very happily for a long time butthethe fire of

separation began t burn in his heart.342The disappearance of Sanatana, Rupa and other

devotees created a

great vaccum in the Vrndavana Vaisnavacommunity.343

Throughout the day he lamented the absence ofRupa and Sanatana and

grew disinterested in his own life.344


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The favor of Lokanatha to Narottma

At that time Narottama arrived in Vrndavana an

immediately engagedhimself in the continous service of SriLokanatha.345

Lokanatha was satisfied with Narottama's attitudand gave him Diksha

mantra.346Sri Gopala Bhatta and the other Vaisnavas accept

Narottama as anintimate friend.347

Narottama got the title Thakura Mahasaya along

with the affection ofSri Jiva Gosvami.348

Srinivasa Acarya met narottama in Vrndavana angradually a dynamic

new circle of Vaisnavas was established there.349

Srinivasa also met Shyamananda in Vrndavana.35

Sri ShyamanandaSri Shyamananda lived in the village name


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Dandeswara. His motherwas Sri Dwika and his father was Sri Krsna

Mandala.351Shyamananda was born of a sad gopa family. He

regarded Lord Krsnas his life and soul and the Vaisnavas were very de

to him.352I will not give the details of the lives of Sri Krsna

Mandala and SriDwika because in doing so the book would becomtoo volominous.353

Shyamananda's father formerly lived in a villagenamed Dharenda-

Vahaduapura. Some experts said thatShyamananda was born there.354

Some said that Mandala had lost his eldest son anddaughter.

Shymananda was his third child.355

Shyamananda was born at an auspiciousnessmoment and from the

moment of his birth he charmed the local villagepeople.356

Observing the nature of the new born baby, Krsn


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Mandala told his wifeto look after the child with utmost care and then

leave his feature in the

hands of Lord Krsna.357The women in the village suggested the nameDuhkhia for him insteadof any sweet name.358

Because of the difficulty his parents faced in raisin

him, the nameDukhi was kept.359

Great celebrations were held for him when he athis first rice

(annaprasan) and later when he shaved his head

leaving only sikha andthe entire village enjoyed the ceremonies.360Dukhi never played with his friends, but he

completed his study inVyakarana and other subjects in a very short

time.361The people of the village were astonished to see h

determination.362He especially liked to hear the life stories of


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Gauranga, Nityananda andtheir associates from the Vasinavas of the

village.363As he sang the glories of Gaura-Nitai, tears woul

flow from hiseyes.364

He always remembered the pastimes of Radha Krsand served his

parents faithfully. 365When Dukhi had grown up, his parents advised hitake diksha in

Krsna mantra from any respectable religious teachof his choice.366

With folded hands he humbly replied that he hadalready decided to

accept Prabhu Hrdaya Caitanya of Ambika as hireliious guide.

Hrdaya Caitanya belonged to the branch of

Gauridasa Pandita and wasa devout follower of Krsna Caitanya and NItya

nanda.368Dukhi knew that Gaura Nitai were always presen

in the house of


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Hrdaya Caitanya ordered him to go toVrndavana.382

Shymananda did not want to leave his guru's hou

and grewmorose.383But with a loving embrace, Hrdaya Caitanya agai

insisted thatShymananda go to Vrndavana.384

Crying bitterly Dukhi Krsnadasa bowed at the feeof Hrdaya Caitanya

and left the house.385Dukhi Krsnadasa's eyes began to shed tears of lov

while he envisioned

Prabhu Nityananda and Caitanya.386Lamenting in various ways he also bowed to the fe

of the associates ofMahaprabhu and took leave from them.387While visiting Navadvipa and other places

Krsnadasa continually prayedfor pure devotional service.388

While he reached Gauramandala, he cried out indeep emotion and


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tears rolled from his eyes.389Calling out the names of Nityananda, Advaita an

Caitanya, Krsnadasacried in bitter separation.390

Over and over he prayed for the mercy ofMahaprabhu and holyGauramandala. 391

Could anyone understand why Mohanta

Shymananda had been prayingto Sri Gauramandala.392The experts say that Sri Gauramandala was God

Narayana Himself androm that holy dham all desires could be fulfilled.3

n a song written by Thakura Mahasaya in the booSri Shymananda

Sataka it is said: "He who takes the feet of SriGauranga as hs treasure

can get the real wealth of devotion. He who hear

the sweet lila ofGauranga, can have a pure heart.394

He sho speaks the name of Gaurnga can realise threal meaning of

love. I glorify that person. Whoever is absorbed i


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thoughts of thequalities of Mahaprabhu can enjoy the eternal lil

of Gauranga and

becomes the real ineritor of devotional love.295"He who accepts the associates of gauranga aseternally accomplished

devotees gets Sri Vrajendra Suta (Krsna) andwhoever regards Sri

Gauramandala as God narayana Himself can live Vrajabhumi.396

He who drowns in the ocean of Gauranga's eternlove becomes an

intimate associate of Sri Radha Madhava. He wh

though lives in ahome or in a forest can cry out taking the name o

Gauranga,Narottama always desires his association."397

Many mahantas have sung the glories of Thakura

Mahasaya andShymananda.398

Remembering the order of his guru with eagernesShymananda went


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offering DukhiKrsnadasa to him.406

He requested Sri Jiva Gosvami to fulfil the desires

Shyamananda andthen to send him back after sometime.407He advised Shyamananda to regard Sri Jiva

Gosvami as a brother of hisguru.408

He also warned Shyamananda to be very cautious learning devotion

and in behaving with the Vaisnavas. 409With these instructions Hrdaya Caitanya hoped t

make Shyamananda

cautious. Shyamananda felt very fortunate to havsuch a religious

guide.410After a long time, Shyamananda returned to Gaud

and gave initiation

to Sri Murari and others in Utkala according to thdesire of

Prabhu.411The identical form of Sri Shyamananda Prabhu an


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Sri NarottamaI have not given many details but have tried to

present the intimaterelationships of Sri Narottama and Sri

Shyamananda in a nutshell.412In Vrndavana, Narottama had been floating in th

river of devotionallove but due to the wish of Prabhu he left

Vrndavana forGaudadesa.413I shall describe how he went to Gaudadesa.414There was a disciple of Narottama named Sri

Vasanta who was born of

a brahmin family and was a great poet.415He composes some songs in which he described th

travels of SriNarottama.416

The song by Sri Vasanta says: "O Prabhu

Narottama, the ocean of goodqualities. I do not know how Providence has

created your tender bodywhich has conquered the pride of the golden lotu

flower.417


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Being mad in the love of Gauranga, giving up thpleasures of riches

and enjoying life in Vrndavana, Narottama

dedicated himself to the feetof Prabhu Lokenatha.418Having favored him, Prabhu Lokenatha has

captivated him and senthim to Gaudadesa who after visiting Gauda, goes

Nilacala and thenagain came back to Gaudadesa.419

The associates of Prabhu favored him and composmany songs about

him. I Vasanta the servant of Narotttama, say th

he has reformedheretical demons to peaceful devotional people.42

In this way, vasanta described the qualities ofNarottama.421

Prabhu Lokenatha instructed Narottama to care f

the deities of SriGauranga-Krsna, to serve the Vaisnavas and to sin

sankirtana of SriPrabhu while he was in Gaudadesh.422-423


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In sincere obsrvance of that order Narottama carefor six deities at one

time.424The names of the six beautiful deities were

Gauranga, Vallavi Kanta,Sri Krsna, Vraja mohana, radharamana and

Radhakanta.425-426In doing so he followed the practices (rites) strict

and engaged himselfwholeheartedly to the service of the Vaisnavas.The people of all classes an creeds got enormous

pleasur from thesankirtana sung by Narottama.428

The associates of Gauranga in Gaudadesa were vehappy to have

Narottama in their midst.429Sri Jahnavi devi, the daughter of Swrya Pandita an

the wife of Sri

Nityananda, was adored by the whole world.430She was a experienced lady in devotional matter

and she lovedNarottama very much.431

She was satisfied by his srtong devotional


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tendencies and by hisdetachment from worldly pleasures.432

By his own grace he had returned to the village o

Kheturi and given theresidents his association.433I am a worthless person, how can I describe the

favor which Jahnavidevi showered on Narottama.434

Sri Thakura Mahasaya was a generous person.Whoever received his

favor got all of his desires fulfilled.435Many persons became his disciples, namely Gang

Narayana, Santosha

nd many others. All credits went to Sri Narottamfor this.436-437

Sri Govinda Kaviraja composed some songs whiceulogised

Narottama.438

In his songs he said: "All glories to NarottamaThakura, the emperor in

the realm of love and devotion, who is of the samnature as


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Ramacandra Kaviraja.439He is the centre jewel of the crown like love and h

emotions are likeornaments. He gets himself seated on the love lik

throne of Kheturiwith the devotees by his side.440

He always engages himself in the service of SriRadha Madhava and in

explaining the book Sri Bhagavat of Rupa andSanatana.441He who all the tim absorbs in sankirtana withou

caring a fig forreligious or irreligious things and engages in chari

and Yogaalways.442

As a scholar of Bhagavat and other scriptures viewof Pandits on the

subjects of Sankhya, Mimansaka and others.443

He was a threat to irreligious people and abenefactor of love to the

poor. Only I, Sri Govinda dasa, am a worthlessperson as I cannot get

his favor.444


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activity is more worthy of praise.448Sri Jiva Gosvami repeatedly sent letters from Vra

requesting Govindadasa to compose more songs.449

Sri Govinda Kaviraja responded to the request ansent many nectarine

songs to Sri Jiva in Vrndavana.450I shall discuss this again later but for now I will sa

that Sri GovindaKaviraja became the center of life for the Vaisnavdevotees.451

The verses composed by him grew in beauty andflavor and Narottama,

Ramacandra Kaviraja and others were alwaysengaged to taste their

substantial sweetness.452The experts wanted to say that Govinda Dasa wro

the verses in such a

satisfied mind that his sincere satisfaction helpedhis verses to becomeso enchanting.453

King Hari Narayana, a devout Vaisnava, did not srespect any other


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person except Ramacandra.454I check myself for going into details regarding th

initiation of Hari

Narayana by Ramacandra or the initiation of othpeople under HariNarayana.455

Sri Govinda dasa composed the book Sri RamaCarita and dedicated it

to Hari Narayana.456One of the songs in that book says: "All glories t

Rama Raghunandanawho is the beloved husband of the daughter of

Janaka and who is

eternally adored by deities, human beings, apes,flying creatures and

night travelling entities.457All glories to him whose complexion is the color

greeen grass mixed

with the new born cloud of the rainy season, andwhose eyes are as black

as collyrium. He remains peaceful during battleswearing his arrows on


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his right shoulder and his bow on the left.His character is as deep as the ocean.458

"All glories to him whose brother Bhargat hassincerely worshipped his

sandals by shading them with an umbrella andfanning them with a

chamara. He is the God whom Siva, Brahma,Sanaka, Sanatana and

other gods attend with folded hands.459"All glories to him who is worshipped by marutanandana as the only

God. I Govinda dasa, always keep in my heart thtruth that Raja Hari

Narayana is his guardian."460Being ordered by Sri Santosh Dutta, Raj Hari

Narayana wrote thedrama named Sangita Madhava.461

There in the courtship of Sri Radha Krsna is so

beautifully describedthat Sri Santosh Datta became enchanted.462

The biography of Santosh Dutta

I hope my audience will be satisfied after hearing


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the biography ofSantosha.463

n the capital city of Gopalapura on the bank of th

river Padmavatiived King Krsna nanda Dutta and Sri PurusottamDutta who were

both great personalities.464-465Krsnadasa was the younger brother of Sri

Purusottama Dutta andpeople in general liked to see the cordial relation

between the twobrothers.466

Sri Krsnananda's son was Srila Narottama whose

character has alreadybeen described.467

Santosha was the son of Sri Purusottama and thenephew of

Krsnacandra and he was a very efficient in the

execution of royalaffairs.468

He was efficent man who had a great influence othe king of Gaur, the


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ministers of the State and also the subjects of theking. Everyoneobeyed him.469

But he was so kindhearted that he won the love oeveryone.

Simultaneously he was a respected scholar whoenjoyed his absorbing

study of the scriptures.470

He was the brother and disciple of Sri Narottamaand remained alwaysin the service of his guru, Krsna and the

Vaisnavas.471In the drama Sri Sangita Madhava the same

narration about the life ofSantosha Dutta has been quoted.472

"Who in this world is a more fortunate gentlemanthan Sri Santosha

Dutta who has earned the dual blessing of Sri Rad

and Madhava byhis own devotional endeavors and has been able t

place their forms inthis lotus like heart? Who is more favored than S

Santosha Dutta who


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has been able to reveal the true identity of the deiof Sri Radha

Madhava by dint of his own purity and his desire

do good to thepwople of the world.473Oh by the wonderful endeavor of Sri Santosha

Dutta the deity of SriGauranga then Sri Radha ramana and at last Sri

Radha Kanta revealedthemselves! Oh what nectarine devotional

meetings, philosophicaldiscussions and sincere worship of the guru is bein

conducted in

Narottama's house. There is no place more securthan the feet of

Santosha where real devotees and misery strickenmankind can find

relief.474

People in general admired Sri Santosha for hiswonderful devotional

activities.475Some thought that he must have supernatural


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power which kept him onthe strict path of devotion. Without such power

how could a humanaccumulate such devotional strength.476

Others thought it was by the mercy of NarottamKaviraja that Santosha

was empowered to success in the devotionalsphere.477

The drama Sri Sangita Madhava has given the saminformation.478"There is much to say about the wonderful

endeavors of Santosh but Iwill not give the details.479

His affection towards Sri Govinda Kavirajaindicated that they were

different only in bodily features but equal in inwaqualities and

habits.480

Sri Kaviraja and Narottama passed their lives in thvillage of Kheturi

with these great and qualified devotees.481Whoever can understand the true identity of the

devotees within his


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heart can certainly get the favor of Lord Krsna.48Later I shall describe how Sri Rama candra used

toserve his own God,

but now I shall discuss the topic of SriGokulananda.483-484Dwija Haridasa, giver of love and devotion was a

disciple and associateof Sri Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu.485

Haridasa was a highly qualified and experienceddevotee who used to

engage in Sankirtana throughout the entir day annight.486

His sons Sri Gokulanandana and Sridasa were ver

promising even fromtheir childhood.487

THey completed their study of scriptures in a vershort time and loved

to absorb themselves in active sankirtana.488

Sri Gokulananda got the full mercy of SrinivasaAcarya.489

On the order of his father he took initiation fromSri Acarya and served


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his guru sincerely.490His younger brother Sridasa was also a great devot

who followed inhis path.491

Srinivasa Acarya was a loving person who spent hdays happily with his

disciples.492He gave them advise in devotional subjects and

tried to increase theirttraction forthe qualities of Sri Krsna Caitanya.4Srinivasa Acarya and Gokuladasa genius was

appreciated by the wholeworld.494

The Vaisnavas desire to hear the life story ofSrinivasa was never

satiated.495I cannot understand why the Vaisnavas ask an

ignorant person like me

to write about these matters.496But please listen to me, as I am ordered by those

Vaisnavas to tell youall the stories.497

It is my opinion that whoever attentively hears


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these topics is sure to getthe favor of Gaura who is Himself the Vrajendra

dana. Whoever

eagerly tells these stories to others is certain to gethe favor of PrabhuNityananda and Sri Advaita .498-499

Whoever has respect for Prabhu Gadadhara,Srinivasa and others is

sure to get the valuable gem of devotion, andwhoever has no faith in

their devotional qualities is sure to be ruined.500501

Please listen to the biography of Srinivasa, there i

you will get all yourdesires fulfilled. From this discussion you will gai

much pleasure.502-503

Now listeners, please relish this topic again and

again because it willbring you relief from all your worries.504-505

The authorities have named the bookBhaktiratnakara as it includes


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many waves of verses.506O listeners, sink in the ocean of Bhaktiratnakara

holding the feet ofthe multitude of devotees on your head.507Devotion is the possession of adevotee but it

becomes available to adevotee only when he assists another person in

acquiring it.

All glories to Bhakti devi to the dity of devotionwhose blessings Ihumbly request. Without her mercy I will not ge

my desiresfulfilled.509

Even if a person perfomrs several religiousausterities for a long time it

may not be possible for him to obtain devotion fothe feet of Lord

Krsna.510

If one wants to obtain the gem like devotion to thdepth of Krsna one

hould try to be absorbed in the depth of devotionpractices all the

time.511


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I would caution that person to keep the gem ofdevotion securely within

his heart because devotion, according to all

scriptures is the mostvaluable possession in the world.512t is easy to obtain salvation through knowledge an

to fulfil desireshrough virteous offerings to the deities, but even

one makes sincerereligious endeavors of practices mediatation

throughout his life it is noteasy to get devotion to Hari which is the most

valuable possession in the

world.513Who can realize the true greatness of devotion? F

this purpose SriCaitanya had appeared in this world as an

incarnation to taste the real

juice of devotion.514I wish I could die taking with me all calamities

which might befall thatincarnation who has made a wretched person lik


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places.524

The circulation of devotional scriptures by theGosvamis

Prabhu sent Rupa Sanatana west where they coulcirculate many

devotional scriptures.525They wrote the books like Sri Hari Bhakti Vilasa

which they taughtmany aspects of devotional philosophy.526They wrote the book Sri Bhakti Rasamrta Sindhu

an authentic book ofdevotional philosophy which gave enormous

pleasure to thedevotees.527

These two great Vaisnavas were the dearestcompanions of

Mahaprabhu. His memory brought joy to their

minds and helped themwin the favor of Lord Krnsa.528

Sri Jiva Gosvami and other companions caotivatethe world by

publishing devotional scriptures.529


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Who can describe the devotional qualities of SriJiva Gosvami, the

favorite of Sri Sanatana Gosvami.530

Sri Sanatana GosvamiSri Sanatana was a wonderful personality who ha

great love for theSrimad Bhagavata.531

When he was young a brahmin appeared to him indream and gave

him a Srimad Bhagavatam.532When he woke up from the dream and found he d

not have the book

he was quite perturbed, but later that morning thbrahmana actually

brought him the book.533Sanatana became so excited to get the Srimad

Bhagavatam that he sank

ecstatically into the deep ocean of nectarinelove.534

Whatever realization he gained from the SrimadBhagavatam he


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expressed in his own book Sri Laghu Tosani.535Sri Jiva Gosvami described the life history of Sri

sanatana in his bookLaghu Tosani.536

The book Sri Laghu Tosani also gives informationregarding the life of

Sri Sanatana.537-538Though Sri Jiva had elaborated on the former boo

of Sri Sanatana, yethe wanted to say more about Sanatana and for threason he wrote SriLaghu Tosani.539

The particulars about the former seven generationof Sri Jiva.

I shall introduce seven generations of Sri JivaGosvami's family.

Once there was a famous brahmin named Sri

Sarvagna Jagatguru whowas a respected Yajurvedi of the Varadwaja

caste.541He was the king of Karnat who had been adored b

all other


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contemporary kings and who was a grat scholar inall the Vedas and was

a very fortunate person.542-543

His son, Aniruddha deva, was as spirited as LordIndra and morefamous than the moon (chandra).544

He was a proficient scholar of the Vedas and afavorite of the reigning

kings at that time his two queens were alsofamous.545

Aniruddha deva's sons, Rupeswara Harihara,became well respected fortheir virtuous qualities.546

The elder son Rupeswara earned his fame as ascholar of the Sastras

while Harihara became a master in the art andscience of weapons.547

After their marriage their father died, leaving th

administration of thestate in their hands. 548

But the younger brother Harihara soon snatchedthe administration


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power from the hands of his elder brother.549Having lost all power, Rupeswara and his wife

travelled toPaulasthadasa in a chariot pulled by eight horses.5

Sri Sikhareswara befriended him and convincedhim to settle down

there.551Sri Rupeswara's son, Padmanava, was a beautiful

child and a genius aswell.552He learned the four Vedas so easily that he becam

famous simply forthat alone.553

A man of impiecable character Padmanava wasgenuinely absorbed in

love of Lord Jagannatha.554Padmanava left Sikhara bhumi and settled on th

bank of the

Ganges.555He lived in the village Navahatt which was

popularly known asNaihatti.556

In Naihatti Padmanava worshipped the deity of S


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Purusottama.557By performing a sacrifice (yajna) he got eighteen

daughters and five

sons.558The names of his five sons were Sri PurusottamaJagannatha,

Narayana, Murari and Mukunda. 559His eldest son Sri Purusottama and the youngest so

Sri Mukunda werethe best of all the five sons in experience and

character.Sri Mukunda deva's son, Sri Kumara, was the ligh

of the brahmana

family and a highly virtuous man.561He always engaged himself in oblation privately an

became afraid ifany evil soul came in front of him.562

If by channce any non Hindu wasked in front of

him he wouldimmediately perform some penances and he woul

not eat rice.563Because of some family difficulties he became ver


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disturbed and atonce left the village Navahatta.564

He went to Bangadesha with his followers andsettled in a village namedBakla Chandradwipa.565

There was a village named Fateavada in Jessorewhere he built a house

for the conveinence of communications with the

devotees and Vaisnavasof different places.566Among Kumardeva's many sons were Sanatana,

Rupa and Vallabha thelife of the Vaisnava community.567-568

In the book Sri Laghu Tosani, the same dynastichistory has been

given.569-577

The biographies of Rupa, Sanatana and Vallabha

Sanatana, Rupa and Vallabha were great devoteesSanatana was the

elder brother and Rupa the middle.578Sri Vallabha was the youngest of the three brothe

and his son was Sri


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Jiva Gosvami.579This book will be too big if I go into details for

describing the nature of

relations between the three brothers.580The king heard from his experts that Sanatana anRupa might be very

suitable persons for posts as minsisters.581At that time the king of gauda was a powerful no

Hindu. Heappointed Sanatana and Rupa to two responsible

posts in hiskingdom.582

Due to fear of the king, they accepted the posts an

helped him increasehis state.583

The king became so satisfied with the brothers thhe divided his

kingdom between them and allowed them to enjo

their estate.They settled in the village named Ramkeli in Gau

along with theirwealth and treasures.585


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Many scholars from different countries used to visthe court of Rupaand Sanatana.586

There were also singers, instrumentalists, dancerand poets who

remained at the service of Rupa and Sanatana intheir court.587

They would spend money profusely for state

purposes but they neverharmed anyone.588They passed their personal time in the study and

discussion of scriptureand took part in scholarly debates which would

establish their views ordiscredit the opinions of their scholars.589

If any scholar wrote on the subject of Nyaya sutrahe could not feel

accomplished until his work was approved by Rup

and Santana.590Scholars throughout the country appreciated the

acedemic genius of thetwo brothers.591

As their fame grew, brahmins from Karnata and


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He respectfully mentioned the name of his guru ihis book Sri Dasama

Tippani.600-602Who has the capacity to describe the remarkable

activities of Rupa andSanatana?603

In a lonely place near their house there was agarden (Kadamva

Kanana) and in it was situated the Radha SyamaKunda.604They used to think of the lilas of Vrndavana and

while thinking of itthey began to shed tears of emotional upheavol.60

But they contiunously rendered sincere service ttheir deity Sri

Madhava Mohana.606And they retained an eager anticipation for

meeting Sri Krsna Caitanya

Candra who lilved in Nadia at that time.607They regretted their service to the Muslim king an

their fathercontinually performed atonements for the disgrac

of serving the


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Muslims.608-609They lamented their own position, considering

themselves no better

than Muslims because of the work they did and thassociation they keptwith Muslims. They felt themselves worthless as t

served the king ofthe Yavanas instead of the king of their own

race.610-611In the depths of their humble lamentation they

considered themselvesinferior to the Yavanas.612-613

Though they were descendants of a brahmin kin

they could not think ofthemselves as brahmins.614

Whoever got the mercy of Sri Caitanya developehumble behavior. A

devotee never considered himself great but took

most humbleposition.615-616

Although Sri Krsna Caitanya was God Himself, Hnevertheless


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maintained the humble mood of a devotee.617Gaurarai knew that happiness lay in the mood o

humility and Hetaught that principle amongst his followers.618

Only Sri Krsna Caitanya was able to understand tchange that

transpired in the minds of Sanatana and Rupa.61

Sri Gaurasundara in RamkeliOut of divine love for his devotees Gaura candrawent to Ramkeli to

meet Sanatana and Rupa.620The people of Ramkeli- even the Yavanas- went e

masse to seePrabhu.621

The happiness of Sanatana and Rupa wasunbounded and they went

privately to Prabhu and fell at his feet.622

Baring grass in their teeth the two brothersapproached Prabhu with

suvh humility that the assembled devotees felt apang of sorrow in their

hearts.623


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A quote from Caitanya Caritamrta says that Prabhspoke out, "Please

check your humbleness. I feel very sorry to see yo

mortified state ofmind."624-625Although Rupa and Sanatana belionged to a

respectable family andpossessed enormous powers, they exhibited such

humility in consideringthemselves inferior to Yavanas that he brahmana

and others were trulyastonished.626-627

Who understood that Prabhu was actually settin

the examples for allhuman beings through his own favorite disciples

628-629

Lessons of Prabhu to his devotees

Prabhu destroyed the pride of Kandarpa when hestayed in the house of

Ramananda. He showed his neutrality in the houof Damodara.630


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He taught patience during his stay in the house oHaridasa and he

taught humility through Rupa and Sanatana.631Sri Caitanya taught all people the four qualities of

devotee:continence, neutrality, pateince and humility.63The character of Rupa Sanatana was beyond the

comprehension of

ignorant people and invariably someone arguedagainst theirbehavior.633

Let them continue such arguments if they cherishthe hope of going to

hell.634After blessing Rupa and Santana, Sri Gaurahari an

his companions leftRamkeli.635

The happiness of Rupa, Sanatana and Vallabha

knew no bounds.636Kesava Chatri and other scholars were happy to

meet Prabhu.637Having heard different comments from experienc

persons, Sri Jiva


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became very interested in Prabhu and privatelyobserved Him.

Sri Jiva was a talented boy even from his childhoo

andhad completedhis studies in Vyakarana and other subjects withinvery short time.639

Sanatana and Rupa were pleased with their nepheSri Jiva and treated

him affectionately.640Sri Jiva constantly remembered the beauty of

Prabhu and he satisfiedeveryone by his sincere endeavor to learn the

scriptures.641-642

Some peopel considered he must be a partialincarnation of some deity

for no ordinary person could grasp thevast spirituknowledge in such a

short time.643

People were enchanted to see Sri Jiva who was abeautiful and qualified

as Rupa, Sanatana and Sri Vallabha.644I wish I could die taking away with me any


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misfortune which mightbefall Sri Jiva.645

Sanatana and Rupa decided to resign from theirminesterial posts.

They performed their deity worships with a prayefor meeting Prabhu

and sent a messenger to inform Him of theirdecision.647

They sent one person to Candradwipa and anotheto Fateyavada in thisconnection.648

Sri Rupa and Vallabha stored all their wealth andriches on a boat and

sailed to a house from where they could distributthat wealth amongst

the brahmins and Vaisnavas. Then they started fVraja in pursuit of

Mahaprabhu who was already on His way to that

holy place.649-650After Vrndavana Prabhu went to Prayaga where H

met Rupa andVallabha.651

Gaurahari blessed them and directed them to retu


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to Vrndavana assoon as possible.652

The discussion of Bhagavata by SanatanaSanatana gave up royal service and began to studand discuss the

scriptures in his house. In the midst of theBhattacarya brahmins in his

house, he especially enjoyed discussions of SrimaBhagavatam.653-654

Sanatana then went to Kashi and there he metPrabhu. Sri Caitanya

Caritamrta has mentioned all these incidents.655

Prabhu loved Sanatana so much that he personallcleaned Santana's

body which had become dirty due to neglect.656In his book Kavi Karnapura wrote about the speci

favor Prabhu

showed to Sanatana.657Kavi Karnapura mentioned not only Prabhu's

kindness towardsSanatana but also the sincere endeavor of Sanatan


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Sanatana's visit to Niladri from VrndavanaFrom Vrndavana Sri Gosvami Sanatana started fo

Niladri throughJhari Khanda.675

After many days he reached Nilacala and metMahaprabhu who was

very glad to see him.676He affectionately introduced Sanatana to his othe

associates and kepthim for a few days in Nilacala. Then he orderedhim to return toVrndavana.677

At Vrndavana, Sanatana met Rupa and together

they scrutinised andenlarged the book Caitanya Caritamrta.678

Whoever could obtain the favor of these twobrothers was sure to get

the blessings of Sri Krsna Caitanya.679

Sanatana's priest was a brahmana who was very weliked when he cameto Vrndavana.680

He gave up his attractions for wealth and tookinitiation from Sanatana


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Gosvami.681Still at present, his descendants in Kharagrama d

not know anything

but the grace of Prabhu Sanatana. 682Out of love of Krsna Rupa and Sanatana discovermany hidden holy

places in Mathura mandala.683

The biography of Sri JivaSri Jiva had grown very discontent in Gauda and h

was pulled by hisattractions to his uncles in Vrndavana.684

The visit to Vrndavana by Sri Jiva was a peculiar

incident.685From the day of Rupa Sanatana going t Vrndavan

a peculiar feelingbegan to grow in the mind of Sri Jiva who decide

to give up all

pleasures regarding ornaments, beautiful dressescomfortable beds and

voraciousness etc.686-687In discussions of royal affairs or worldly matters h


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simply feltbored.688

Observing Sri Jiva in his perturbed state of mindsomeone commented,

"O my dear friend, from the sons of Kumeradevathree became great

vaisnavas and scholars of scripture: Sanatana; Rupand Vallabha. I

have never seen such stocism and neutrality asexhibited by Sri Vallabhan his detachment from worldly pleasures. When

died on the bank ofhe Ganges his young son Jiva was stunned. But S

Jiva also had nonterest in wealth or riches. My heart breaks when

think of him. Oneday I saw him in a lonely place crying bitterly."689

695

But another person replied, "My dear friend, this natural. It is the

blessing of Lord Krsna which makes Sri Jiva behavlike this. He has

become very reserved and does not think of


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another man. "Heis the light of the brahmin class," said another.

"The whole village willsink into utter darkness if he leaves."704

The discussion of Sri Jiva continued amongst thevillage gentlemen.

They could not even return to their homes leavinSri Jiva in that

condition.705At the same time Sri Jiva sat wondering when hewould leave his

house.706One evening, he sat alone crying and singing the

holy name.707Although he tried to control himself he finally

broke down and criedout, "O my Prabhu Sri Krsna Caitanya! O

Nityananda! O my Prabhu Sri

Advaita candra the ocean of mercy! O dearassociates of Prabhu! Please

be kind to this wretched fellow!"708-710Throughout the night his lamentation kept him

from sleeping.711


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Once before in Ramkeli Sri Jiva had had a dream which he saw

Prabhu and His associates dancing in sankirtana

and enchanting theworld with a flow of love unobtainable by LordBrahma. Tonight he

saw tht same scene in his dream.713-714Lacs of people came forward to join that sankirtan

uttering the nameof Hari which filled the earth and the sky.715

Suddenly Prabhu disappeared and as the dreamfaded Jiva awoke up ina sorrowful state.716

Again he fell asleep and a second wonderful scenappeared in his

dream.717I will tell you later what he saw in his dream, but

now I want to acquaint

you with the former history ;of Sri Jiva.718When Sri Jiva was only a boy, he avoided playing

with his friends orother activities which had no connection with


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Krsna.719He would make images of Krsna and Balarama,

worship them withflowers and sandal paste and dress them with fin

clothes andornaments.720-721

When he would bow on the ground before them hwould weep.722

He offered them various kinds of sweetmeats andthen enjoyed eatingthe prasad of the deities with his friends.723

He loved the deities of Krsna and Balarama somuch that even when he

was alone he would play with them. At bed time hwould clasp the

deities tightly to his chest and sleep. His parentscould not separate

their son from his deities although they thought h

was merelyplaying.724-725

Everyone was happy to see Jiva's love for Krsna anBalarama.726

Caitanya and Nitai were so bound by his love for


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them that theyappeared to him in a dream.727

Krsna and Balarama also appeared in a dream, an

Sri Jiva wasenchanted to see Krsna in dark blue color andBalarama in white

color.728They looked like Kandarpa and enchanted the

universe with theirbeautiful postures.729

Suddenly Krsna and Balarama were replaced byGaura and Nitai and

the universe was perfumed by the scent of their

bodies.730-731Overjoyed with his vision Sri Jiva wept and fell a

he feet of the twomasters.732-733

Gaura-Nityananda Rai, the twin oceans of mercy

put their feet on thehead of Sri Jiva and embraced him affectionately

Whatever they spokefell like nectar on the ears of Sri Jiva.734-735


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In ecstatic love Sri Gaura sundara offered Jiva tothe gracious feet of Sri

Nityananda.736But Nityananda repeatedly instructed Sri Jiva, "L

my Gaura Prabhu beyour life and soul."737

When Sri Jiva bowed against their feet, theydisappeared and Sri Jiva

fell into an abyss of disappointment.738When he woke from sleep, the dawn was breakinand he prepared to

leave for Vrndavana on hte pretext of studyingthere.739

The people of Navadvipa knew he was going toVrndavana.740

He bid farewell to his followers and left Fateya wionly one

servant.741

In the ecstasy of love, Sri Jiva wanderedhypnotically arousing the

curiouslity of the other travellers on the road."Who is this young man?"

they wandered. "He must be a prince with a


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complexion of gold like achampaka flower. What a beautiful face! Just see

his attractive wide

eyes, nose, eyebrows, forehead, ears and curly hairSee his neck, hischest and his nails and fingers on his lotus like

hands! How beautiful arehis thighs, knees and legs."742-746

They all admired the tulasi garland hanging arounhis neck and the

milk white sacred thread lying across his chest.74Someone said, "My dear friend, I cannot take my

eyes off him. I wish I

could die carrying away all misfortune which mighbefall him.748-749

They said, "we cannot understand why we arefeeling so perplexed to see

him? We wish we can get ourselves initiation to

him.750Although the people talked, Sri Jiva continued h

journey rapt inecstasy.751


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When he entered Navadvipa, everyoneacknowledged him as he was thenephew of Rupa Sanatana.752

Being overwhelmed by Sri Jiva's scholarship anddevotional practices,

the brahmans questioned him.753Sri Jiva was enchanted by the beauty of

Navadvipa.754

That holy dhama covered sixteen krsoa of land wimany beautifulflower gardens, tanks, forests, groves, cottages an

the banks of theGanga.755-756

As he wondered, Sri Jiva saw many Vaisnavas whwere happy to meet

him and took him directly to the cottage of SrivasPandita where

Nityananda Prabhu and his associates were

sitting.757-759Nityananda had already foretold Sri Jiva's arrival

Srivasa and Srivasagladly informed Prabhu when Sri Jiva was waitin

outside the cottage


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door. 760-761Nityananda was glad to hear it and requested

someone to call him

in.762Sr Jiva's eagerness to meet Nityanada made him cuncontrollably and

he fell humbly at the feet of Prabhu.763-764Nityananda Prabhu affectionately placed his feet o

the head of Sri Jiva.765

He raised Sri Jiva from the ground, embraced himwarmly and said, "I

have come here from Kardaha simply to meet

You."766-767In this way he pacified Sri Jiva in various ways an

asked Srinivasa andother Vaisnavas to favor him.768

He kept Sri Jiva in his association for some days an

then requested himto go West.769

At the time of his departure Sri Jiva bowed at thfeet of Nityananda in


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the sadness of their intimate separation.770By placing his feet of the head of Sri Jiva he

affectionately embracedhim and said, "Go to Vrndavana soon because it i

the order ofMahaprabhu that your family should be settled a

that place."771-772Sri Jiva offered his respects to the feet of all the

Vaisnavas and then leftfor Vrndavana.773Srivasa and other devotees blessed Sri Jiva in

various ways.774From Navadvipa Sri Jiva went to Kashi where he

met Sri MadhusudanaVachaspati, the professor of all Sastras who was a

great asBrihaspati.775-776

The scholar was pleased to eet Sri Jiva and kept hi

at his place for along time during which he gave him lessons on

Vedanta and othersastras.777

Sri Vachaspati was s impressed by the scholarly


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capabilities of Sri Jivathat he glorified him throughout Kashi andhe soo

became respected as

the foremost scholar of Nyaya Vedanta and othescriptures.778-779From Kashi, Sri Jiva went to Vrndavana and got th

mercy of Rupa andSanatana.780

There can be no end to the descriptions of thequalities of Sanatana,

Rupa and Vallabha.781

Raghunaha Dasa

Raghunatha Dasa took leave from his father andwent to Vrndavana

where he met Sanatana and Rupa.782-783The book Sri Laghu tosanami has given a detaile

dynastic history of Sri

Jiva.784-786

The characters of Rupa and SanatanaSanatana and Rupa began to live in Vrndavana.


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Their state of mindonly Lord Krsna could realize and out of kindnes

and love Heappeared before them in the form of Bala-Gopala

and demanded khirafrom them.787-789

Being ordered by Mahaprabhu, Rupa and Sanatanwrote many books

which became very popular in the world.790Sri Rupa wrote the books Sri Hamsaduta and otheand Sanatana

wrote Sri Bagavatamrta, and others. He wrote SrVaisnava Tosani and

ordered Sri Jiva to edit the book. Being ordered, SJiva wrote Sri

Laghu Tosini. The first book was completed n thsaka era 1476 and

he second book was completed in hte saka era 150

In the book written by Sri Rupa, the narrative ofKrsna in the form of

Gopala has been given.795

The books of Sri Rupa


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Sri Rupa wrote some books which had becomefamous in the world,

namely Sri Hamsaduta Kavya, Srimad Uddhava

Sandesha andChandohastadasaka. 796He wrote some hymns which had also become

famous namelyStakamala, Govinda virudavali, Premendusagara

etc.797He wrote some dramas namely Lalita Madhava,

Vidagdha Madhava,Danakeli, Rasamrta Yugala, Mathura Mahima,

Nataka-Candrika and

Sri Bhagavatamrta in condensed form.798-799

The books of Sanatana PrabhuSanatana wrote the books namely Sri

Bhagavatamrta, Dika Pradarshini

Tika on Hari Bhakti Vilasa, Lila Stava and DasamTippani on

Vaisnava Toshini w

bhaktiratnakara

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