NAROTTAMAVILASA
By Narahari dasa
Translated by Dravida Das
THE FIRST VILASA
Oh! Supreme Lord Visvambhara, You are the husband of the goddess offortune,
and my eternal friend. Only You are capable of distributing thewealth of love
of Godhead. You are known as kindhearted to those who depend uponYou,
therefore, oh Lord, please shower You kindness upon me.
I worship Sri Lokanatha Prabhu, who is fully surrendered to thelotus feet of
Sri Sri Radha Vinode. He is the life of the devotees, and aconfidential
associate of Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
I worship Narottama dasa Thakura, who is especially dear to LordGauranga. Like
a honey bee anxious for the nectar, he hovers at the lotusfeet of Srila
Lokanatha, absorbed in love for Radha Krsna.
I worship the disciples of Srila Narottama Prabhu who are rich ingood qualities
and are able to destroy all misfortune and misery.
For the pleasure of the Vaisnavas and to fulfill my own ardentdesires, I am
writing this book Narottama Vilasa which briefly describes theglories of Srila
Narottama dasa Thakura.
All glories to the son of Saci and Jagannatha Misra, Sri GauraGovinda, the
embodiment of divine love. He is the life of Nityananda andAdvaita, and the
only love of Svarupa, Sanatana, Rupa, and Gopala. Lord Visvambhara,who is
expert at pleasing everyone, has bound the hearts of Haridasa, Vakresvara, and
Narahari with the ropes of His love, and won the friendship of Gauridasaand
Gadadhara.
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and all His associates.
Oh listeners! please be kind upon me. I am an illiterate fool whoknows nothing
of right or wrong, yet I have been ordered by saintly persons tonarrate this
beautiful book Narottama Vilasa which will certainly be relished bythe readers.
I have offered my obeisances to the Lord in the above verses, now listen
patiently and attentively as I briefly describe the glories of SriLokanatha
Prabhu, a favorite devotee of the Lord and the light of his famousbrahmana
family.
He was born to Sita and Padmanabha Cakravarti in the village ofTalagari in the
district of Jassora. It is difficult to describe the wonderfulattributes of
Lokanatha's father and mother. Padmanabha was a famous Rarhibrahmana Vaisnava
and a favorite of Sri Advaita Prabhu. He was constantly absorbed insankirtana,
singing madly and crying incessantly. Those who simply observed hiskirtana
were also unable to check their tears.
He frequently came to Nadia for darsana of Lord Gauranga. However,after such
visits upon returning to his own village he inevitably fell intothe depths of
despair due to intense feelings of separation from Gauranga.
He and his wife always sang the glories of Gauracandra. Sita waslike her
husband. She was a devoted Vaisnavi and wife. She felt extremelyfortunate to
have a wonderful son like Lokanatha and her happiness knew nobounds as she
watched his devotion to Gauracandra blossoming day by day. Who candescribe the
loving care she showered upon her exalted son?
Lokanatha was always enthusiastically engaged in the Lord'sdevotional service.
People were spontaneously drawn by his extraordinary beauty anddeep devotion.
He conscientiously served his parents, and was well-versed in allof the
scriptures at a very young age.
When his parents died, Lokanatha decided, after discussing with hisfriends,
that he would give up the shackles of material existence, go toNadia and
surrender at the lotus feet of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
The mercy of the Lord was abundantly showered upon Lokanatha duringhis stay in
Nadia. However, after sometime Lord Caitanya requested that he goto Vraja.
Lokanatha could understand the mind of the Lord, he knew thatMahaprabhu was
thinking of taking sannyasa shortly. Thus Lokanatha's departure wasan
indescribably pathetic scene; leaving the Lord's association wasunbearable for
him. Completely despondent, Lokanatha began his journey. Cryingincessantly,
the path before him became practically invisible, thus in five dayshe walked
a distance which would normally be covered in a single day. Aftertraveling for
sometime he received the heart breaking news that Mahaprabhu hadtaken sannyasa
and, after consoling his associates, had gone to Nilacala.Lokanatha lamented,
knowing the Lord had given up His beautiful curling hair.
Heavy-hearted and forlorn, Lokanatha continued his journey onlybecause it was
the order of the Lord. He arrived in Vrndavana practicallylifeless, but the
charming atmosphere of Vraja soothed his mind and eased his achingheart.
However, after a few days Lokanatha heard that Mahaprabhu had goneto South
India, and his mind became disturbed. Eager to see the Lord again,Lokanatha
left for the south at once. In anxious anticipation he traveledquickly.
However, after traveling a considerable distance he received newsthat the Lord
had already left the South and returned to Nilacala [unclear]
Afterwards he heard that the Lord had arrived in Vrndavana. Withgreat anxiety
Lokanatha immediately started for Vraja. However, upon reachingVrndavana, he
found that Mahaprabhu had departed for Prayaga just a few daysbefore.
The forlorn Lokanatha sank into the depths of despair. The nextmorning he
decided to follow Mahaprabhu to Prayaga. He could no longertolerate the
intense misery of separation from his beloved Lord. Rolling on theground he
cried pitifully until at last he feel asleep. In his dream hefinally received
the long awaited darsana of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu; His effulgentbody was
covered with yellow sandalwood paste, shining with a brillianceunknown to
gold. Perfectly arranged hair, decorated with fresh flowers, surrounded His
exquisite face, and His forehead was neatly marked with tilak. Whowould not be
captivated by His gorgeous lotus eyes, majestic eyebrows, andenticing smile
which easily defeated the beauty of the moon? A sacred thread wasdraped across
His broad chest and His long arms touched His knees. His dhoti wasfolded in
three places and His transcendental body was bedecked with ornaments.
He spoke affectionately to Lokanatha: "I shall always be with you,relishing
loving pastimes, here in My eternal abode, Navadvipa. Even greatpersonalities
like Lord Brahma are unable to understand this Dhama of Mine." Sayingthis, He
embraced Lokanatha and disappeared.
Lokanatha awoke, the emptiness in the Lord's absence wasintolerable and he was
overwhelmed with despair. However, by Mahaprabhu's kindness, sleeponce again
overtook him and the Lord, dressed in the garb of a sannyasi, onceagain
appeared before him. "You are thinking of going to Prayaga," theLord said
sweetly, "But what is the use of going there when you can see mehere in your
dream. Oh Lokanatha I also desire to be with all of you inVrndavana. After I
sent you to Vraja I took sannyasa from Kesava Bharati. At that timeI was very
eager to see Vrnda Vipina, but My devotees were so broken-heartedand desolate,
due to my acceptance of the renounced order, that I was obliged tospend a few
days in the house of Advaita Prabhu to console them. Afterwards Iwent to
Nilacala, then later to the South. Unfortunately our paths did notcross either
in the South or in Vrndavana. I know you are feeling despondentbecause of this
and have decided to leave for Prayaga tomorrow morning, but don'tleave
Vrndavana, remember that I am always with you. I shall keep youinformed of my
whereabouts. From Prayaga I'll leave for Nilacala, there I willtell my dear
devotees Rupa and Sanatana about you and they will meet you inVrndavana soon.
In their association you will float on the waves of happinessamidst the ocean
of ecstatic love for Krsna."
"Within a short period of time a prince named Narottama will becomeyour
disciple. He will be a gifted devotee, full of love and devotion,and empowered
to save the fallen conditioned souls from hellish life. Hisenchanting beautiful
kirtana will melt even wood or stone." Thus speaking He embracedLokanatha, who
fell at the Lord's feet.
Awaking and finding himself alone, Lokanatha cried pitifully,remembering the
beautiful Gaurangacandra. Eventually he pacified himself, but tearscontinued
to flow like rivers from his eyes. As dawn approached he performedhis daily
duties and sat down in a quiet place to chant the holy name of theLord until
a local brahmana offered him some fruits to eat. He sat under thetree for
a long time until restlessness overtook him and he began wanderingaimlessly
throughout Vrndavana. Eventually he happened upon a beautifulsecluded area
where he stayed alone for a long time.
Later he happened to find out that Sri Subuddhi Misra had visitedVrndavana,
followed by Sri Rupa Gosvami a bit later, but now they were both onthere way
to meet Sri Gaurasundara. Sanatana had also come to Vrndavana buthad recently
left for Nilacala. Hearing this Lokanatha could not suppress hisdisappointment.
Sighing heavily and crying pitifully, he lamented, "Oh Rupa,Sanatana, when will
I be able to live with you?" Suddenly a voice replied: "We shalldefinitely come
to Vrndavana soon."
Eventually Gopala Bhatta and others did come to Vrndavana. I amlost for words
to describe that joyous meeting and the immense pleasure theyderived from each
other's association. Sri Rupa Gosvami greeted Lokanatha with greatwarmth and
affection, dissipating the anguish of long separation from the Lordand His
devotees.
In Sanatana Gosvami's Vaisnava Tosani he mentions his attachmentfor Lokanatha:
"I worship Srila Kasisvara, Lokanatha, and Sri Krsnadasa who havetaken shelter
at the lotus feet of the dear-most Deity in Vrndavana, SrilaGovinda Deva."
Raghunatha Bhatta, Gopala Bhatta, Bhugarbha Gosvami, as well asmany others,
dearly loved Lokanatha. Together they spent many wonderful days inSri Vrndavana
Dhama relishing the highest pinnacles of devotional happiness.Lokanatha was
fully engaged in the service of his worshipful Deities, Sri SriRadha Vinode.
How he obtained these deities I have explained in Bhakti-ratnakara(page 23).
Once while serving his Deities, Lokanatha suddenly saw the madhuryarupa** of
Sri Gaura amalgamated with that of Sri Radha Vinode. Later, in adream, the Lord
** revealed everything regarding His own transcendental nature.Such deep
spiritual realizations gave rise to intense emotions, thus wheneverLokanatha
tried to describe the divine attributes of the Lord, he would losehis composure
and simply roll on the ground, cursing himself for not havingpersonally
witnessed the Lord's pastimes.
Krsnadasa Kaviraja requested Lokanatha's permission for writingCaitanya
Caritamrta, which he received with Lokanatha's wholeheartedenthusiasm, yet
both he and Gopala Bhatta, forbade Krsnadasa from mentioning theirnames within
the book.
I have heard all of these stories from some aged persons?? Whoeverhears them
is extremely fortunate. The merciful Lokanatha Gosvami remained inVrndavana
and later showered his blessings upon his dear disciple, Narottamadasa. By the
mercy of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Lokanatha obtained the preciousgem of love
of Godhead:
"I worship the lotus feet of Lokanatha Prabhu whose is opulent withthe wealth
of Sri Krsna Caitanya's blessings, and whose mind is bedecked withthe ornaments
of love."
"I take shelter at the lotus feet of Lokanatha Prabhu who eternallyresides in
Vrndavana. He is always absorbed in loving devotional service,enchanted by the
transcendental pastimes of Sri Krsna. "
"I take refuge at the lotus feet of Lokanatha Prabhu who iscompletely
indifferent to the pains and pleasures of this material world. Hismercy was
fully realized only by the great scholar Narottama dasa."
All glories to Narottama dasa Thakura, the beloved disciple ofLokanatha
Gosvami.
How the illustrious Narottama took his birth in the house ofKrsnananda Datta,
the elder brother of Sri Purusottama, I dare not discusselaborately here.
However, for your pleasure, I shall give a brief description.
Rupa and Sanatana lived in Ramakeli, a beautiful village in apleasant area of
Gaudadesh. Although acting as high ranking ministers in the courtof the king,
they were always absorbed in discussing scriptures with scholarsand professors.
Their genius and wisdom won them fame throughout the world. In thecourts of
Maharastra, Karnataka, Dravida, Tailanga, Utkala, Mithila, Gaura,Gujarata,
Vanga, Kasi and Kashmir they were considered the greatest scholars.(I have
explained this further in Bhakti-ratnakara). Being favorites of theking, the
brothers had no shortage of wealth.
Meanwhile, Sri Gauracandra was performing His all-attractivepastimes in
Navadvipa. Rupa and Sanatana happened to hear reports of the Lord'sactivities
and were spontaneously attracted. Immediately they began writingnumerous
letters to Mahaprabhu, while earnestly waiting for the opportunityto meet Him
personally.
The Supreme Lord, who is bound only by the love of His devotees,soon also
became anxious to meet Rupa and Sanatana. After accepting sannyasa,the Lord
consoled his devotees, went to Nilacala and later to Vrndavana.When Mahaprabhu
started for Gaudadesh millions of people ran behind him, thus Hearrived at
Ramakeli surrounded by hoards of devotees.
On hearing of Lord Caitanya's arrival, Sanatana and Rupa, as wellas Kesava
Chatri and other friends, were overwhelmed with joy. The royalministers, Rupa
and Sanatana, could not contain their happiness and secretly rushedto meet the
associates of Lord Caitanya. By the grace of Nityananda Prabhu theywere
introduced to Sri Krsna Caitanya. Who can describe the intenseemotions of Rupa
and Sanatana at that meeting? Sri Gauracandra happily welcomed themwith sweet
words, as Nityananda Prabhu, Haridasa, Vakresvara, Mukunda andothers stood by
watching with pleasure.
Mahaprabhu stayed there for a few days constantly surrounded by anocean of
ecstatic devotees who were eager to bath in the purifying waters ofthe Lord's
transcendental association. Not only the general mass of peoplewere affected
by the Lord, even the Yavana king was moved by Mahaprabhu'spresence.
One day while Caitanya Mahaprabhu was dancing with his associatesduring
sankirtana, He suddenly looked in the direction of Sri Kheturivillage.
A peculiar look appeared on His face, tears whelmed up in His eyes,and He
cried out the name "Narottama! Narottama!" again and again. Theocean of mercy,
Nityananda Raya shouted in joy, and Haridasa, Vakresvara, andothers were
inexplicable filled with happiness.
Witnessing the unusual behavior of the Lord, the devotees begantalking amongst
themselves: "Prabhu is repeatedly calling out the name of someonecalled
Narottama."
"It seems that this Narottama is extremely dear to the Lord,perhaps he is
about to take birth soon."
"Oh who is that fortunate man who will have such a son?"
"The woman who bears him within her womb is the most fortunate ladyin the
world."
"Obviously, the Lord has plans for this Narottama to fulfill Hismission."
In this way the rumors of the appearance of Narottama spread farand wide.
A similar event took place again when Mahaprabhu was traveling toNilacala,
suddenly he cried out the name of Srinivasa. [unclear]
These topics became known to all and everyone waited eagerlyanticipating the
appearance of Narottama.
Oh listeners please hear attentively as Narahari dasa narratesNarottama Vilasa.
THE SECOND VILASA
All glories to Sri Gauracandra, Nityananda Prabhu, and all thedevotees of
Mahaprabhu. Please bestow your mercy upon this poor fallenconditioned soul.
All glories to those who hear the nectar of this Narottama Vilasa,kindly
listen patiently to my narration.
The wheel of time turned, until finally, on the sixth hour of thefull moon day
in the month of Magha, when all auspicious signs were visible,Narottama dasa
took birth to fulfill the mission of the Lord.
His mother, radiant with beauty, wept joyfully as she lovinglygazed at the
charming face of her son. An unearthly effulgence suddenlyilluminated the
entire delivery room and happiness swelled in the hearts ofeveryone present.
From that moment the village of Sri Kheturi became an auspiciousplace. The
residents suddenly felt purified; as if cleansed of all misgivings.They
trembled with ecstatic emotions, tears filled their eyes, and theyspontaneously
chanted the holy name with devotion. They rushed to the house ofKrsnananda
carrying all kinds of gifts for the newborn child.
The delighted Datta Mahasaya warmly welcomed them all withouttaking his eyes
off the face of his son for a second, while Krsnananda's exaltedfather
distributed charity profusely to the singers, musicians and otherspresent, for
the protection of his grandson.
There was no woman in the world as fortunate as Narottama's mother,Narayani.
By the Lord's grace she was granted the eyes to see Gauranga,Nityananda, and
Advaita dancing ecstatically within her own home.
Narayani watched jubilantly as her son began to grow like the moon.Similarly,
Krsnananda's pleasure knew no bounds as he constantly stared at thejewel-like
face of his son. Grateful for his good fortune, he fed thebrahmanas daily.
At the appropriate time on an auspicious day, Krsnananda arrangedfor the
ceremony of offering rice to his son. The astrologer present onthat joyful
occasion noted all the auspicious signs upon the child's body andpredicted
that the boy would be an illustrious person: "This baby will be thegreatest of
men, therefore he should be called Narottama."
The festivities went on happily until Krsnananda tried to feed hisson the rice.
To everyone's dismay the child refused to eat. Although they coaxedhim again
and again, the boy repeatedly turned his head away, refusing toeat. The festive
atmosphere was replaced with anxiety and everyone looked at eachother
nervously, not knowing what to do.
The thoughtful astrologer, however, reassured everyone, "Don'tworry, this baby
will not accept food unless it has first been offered to LordVisnu."
Thus the rice was offered to Lord Visnu, then again offered to thechild. To
everyone's relief, the child happily devoured it. From that day on,realizing
the value of prasada, the king ordered: "Only food which has beenoffered to
Krsna should be given to my son." Although the worship of Krsna wascustomary
in their family, from the time of Narottama's birth everyone becamemuch more
attentive to the service of the Lord.
After a few years Narottama began his studies and soon proved to bea genius.
Within a short time he became a scholar in all subjects. Theteachers use to
comment: "How is it possible that this boy can learn so quickly? Doyou think
he is an incarnation of God?"
He was an adorable boy and endeared himself to everyone, soon hewas the talk
of the town: "Just one glance at Narottama is sufficient to cool mymind and
chase away all miseries."
"From every angle of vision the prince is beautiful."
"I have never seen such a gorgeous boy."
In this way Krsnananda's son was glorified throughout the town.
Krsnananda was happy simply to gaze upon his son, but as timepassed he began
to think, "My son is capable in all respects, he must be marriedsoon. I am
getting old and should follow the path of my father, it is time tobe relieved
of my kingly duties." Thus he consulted with the wise Kayasthas tofind
a suitable bride for his son.
Meanwhile Narottama was lost in the ecstacy of love for Krsna. Witheyes full
of tears he joyfully worshipped his Lord privately, oblivious toeverything
else. In this way he lost all taste for mundane pleasures and couldnot bear to
even hear topics related to royal pleasures and properties. Awareof their
son's growing apathy for material life, Krsnananda and Narayaniwere filled
with anxiety and could think of nothing else. Finally they decidedto appoint
someone to constantly watch over their son, but still they wereunable to find
peace of mind.
Narottama's home became a prison for him and he longed to be free.Although he
said nothing, he was constantly waiting for the opportunity toleave home.
Everyday he secretly pleaded desperately for the Lord's help. Hisbody became
covered with dust as he rolled on the ground crying. Raising hisarms in the
air he begged pitifully, "Oh Gauranga! Nitai! Advaita! My Lords,please save me
from this hell."
At that time the news of Lord Gauranga's glories was spreadingthroughout the
world. Narottama's only solace was when he received some word ofthe Lord's
pastimes. There was one aged brahmana in Sri Kheturi namedKrsnadasa. He was
a genuine servant of Lord Krsna and loved Narottama deeply. Hecould not let
a single day pass without seeing Narottama. That brahmana,Krsnadasa, was so
powerful by dint of his devotion, that no one dare disobey him.
Everyday after completing his worship of Krsna, Krsnadasa wouldvisit Narottama.
Narottama welcomed him with wholehearted enthusiasm, humbly fallingprostrate at
his feet. Offering him a seat, he would then eagerly enquiringabout Lord
Caitanya and His associates. Krsnadasa happily narrated thepastimes of the Lord
in three parts (Adi, Madhya and Antya). He went on to glorify thetranscendental
activities of Nityananda and Advaita with such emotion then evenwood or stone
would melt upon hearing his devotional narration. He explained thelife
histories of Pandita Gadadhara, Pandita Srivasa, Vakresvara,Svarupa, Murari,
Haridasa, Narahari Dasa, Gauridasa, Gadadhara, Vasu Ghosh, Mukunda,Sanjaya,
Damodara, Kasisvara, Sri Paramananda Bhattacarya, Krsnadasabrahmacari,
Lokanatha Varya, Sanatana, Rupa, Sri Gopala, Raghunatha, RaghunathaBhatta, Sri
Jiva, Subuddhi Misra, Raghava, Krsna Pandita and others.
He then narrated the story of Srinivasa Acarya's birth. Krsnadasatook hold of
Narottama's hands and tearfully said, "Oh Narottama, how can Idescribe the
wonderful qualities of Srinivasa? In his youth he was renowned as agreat
scholar and the embodiment of love and devotion. When he left forNilacala to
meet Sri Caitanya, along the way he received the stunning news thatthe Lord
had disappeared from this world. He was devastated and immediatelyfell
unconscious. Only due to the wish of the Lord did life remainwithin his body."
The glories of the Lord's devotees are described by Kavi Karnapurain
Gunalesasucakam: "Glory to Srila Srinivasa Prabhu, the embodimentof mercy, who
was born in a Rarhi brahmin family in Ghantesvari. In his childhoodhe conquered
the world by his scholastic genius. Upon hearing about LordCaitanya, Srinivasa
rushed to Nilacala to see the Lord."
"Glory to Srinivasa Prabhu who fell unconscious on the road toNilacala upon
hearing of Sri Mahaprabhu's disappearance. After regainingconsciousness he
frantically cut his own beautiful hair and so doing hurt hisforehead, then he
continued on to Purusottama remembering the lotus feet ofMahaprabhu."
In a dream Lord Caitanya appeared before Srinivasa, encouraging himto go on to
Nilacala. Upon seeing Srinivasa, everyone there shed tears.Gadadhara,
Vakresvara Pandita and others welcomed him into their association.Showering
their mercy upon him they ordered him to go to Vrndavana. Srinivasafirst took
darsana of Sri Jagannatha and then started for Gauda via Srikhanda.After
reaching Gauda he again returned to Nilacala via Srikhanda, butalong the way
he heard that Gadadhara Pandita Gosvami had disappeared from theworld.
Devastated, Srinivasa turned around and headed back towards Gauda,looking like
a man on the verge of death. After traveling sometime he lay downand fell
asleep. In his dream Sri Pandita Gosvami appeared before Srinivasaand lovingly
consoled him.
When he awoke in the morning his mind was still extremelyperturbed, yet he
continued on towards Gauda. Along the road he met one of theresidents of Gauda
who informed Srinivasa about the disappearances of PrabhuNityananda and
Advaita. Again, Srinivasa fell unconscious in despair. When he cameback to
consciousness he immediately decided to commit suicide and beganbuilding
a fire to throw himself into. However, Nityananda and AdvaitaPrabhu suddenly
appeared before Srinivasa. They quickly pacified him and orderedhim to go to
Vrndavana.
In the morning Srinivasa continued on to Gauda. In Srikhanda he metNarahari
and Sri Raghunandana and bowed to their feet. This is described byKavi
Karnapura in Gunalesasucakam: "All glory to Srila Srinivasa Prabhuwho went to
Srikhanda and bowed before Narahari Sarkara Thakura, the dear-mostassociate of
Sri Caitanya Candra. Being ordered by Narahari, Srinivasa alsosought the favor
of Yadunandana."
When Srinivasa arrived in Navadvipa he was overwhelmed withastonishment to see
the Supreme Lord Gauranga and His associates sporting happilythere. Srinivasa
had been granted the eyes to see this wonderful scene. Actuallyeveryone in
Navadvipa was floating in an ocean of sorrow. Srinivasa eagerlywent to the
house of Prabhu where Visnupriya Devi bestowed her mercy upon him.Dasa
Gadadhara, Srivasa and others also welcomed Srinivasa with tears oflove in
their eyes. From there, Srinivasa went to Santipura to see SitaDevi. Who can
describe the loving reception he received from her? In ecstatictrance he
traveled on to Khardaha, there Sri Jahnava and Vasudha greeted himwith great
affection. He then went to Khanakula to receive the blessings ofSri Abhirama
and his wife Malini devi. He then returned to Srikhanda and met SriNarahari
Thakura who bestowed his mercy upon him and again advised him to goto Vraja.
With great affection Sri Raghunandana gave Srinivasa completeinstructions for
his journey to Vrndavana. Srinivasa went back to Yajigrama to visithis mother
and after consoling her, started off alone for Vrajapura."
After hearing this story, spontaneous love for Srinivasa arosewithin the heart
of Narottama. Floating in a river of tears Narottama thought, "Whenshall I get
the company of Srinivasa?" Who can understand Narottama's state ofmind? Daily
he listened attentively to the stories of Prabhu and his devotees,and cursed
himself for not having attained their association. His mind wasalways
disturbed, he could not eat, nor could he sleep at night.
One day, due to the desire of the Lord, Narottama fell asleep andin his dream
he saw Gauraraya. His splendid beauty could not be compared togold, lightning,
or anything else of this world. The beautiful curling hair hangingdown His
back could turn the mind of even the most virtuous woman. Hisearrings shone
brightly and His lotus eyes were the trap of Cupid. His smilingface could
easily defeat the effulgence of the moon, and the beautiful tilakon His
forehead could capture one's breath. His graceful hands swept downto His knees,
and how broad His chest was. Beautiful jewelled garlands hungaround His
conch-like neck, and His deep navel was finely shaped. His thinwaist defeated
even the lion. His knees looked like toppled banana trees, and Hisfeet were
more attractive than lotuses. How gorgeous was His three fold loincloth.
Observing the beauty of Prabhu, Narottama shed tears of love andfell on the
feet of the Lord. Placing His feet on Narottama's head, SriCaitanya Mahaprabhu
said sweetly, "Oh, Narottama, look at me. I cannot bear your tears.Don't
worry, go straight to Vrndavana. There you will be initiated by mydear devotee
Lokanatha. He will happily pour the nectar of the Mahamantra intoyour ears. I
have many plans which are to be served by you." Narottama's sleepwas then
broken.
Narottama could not bear Prabhu's disappearance and he rolled onthe ground in
disappointment. Thus again, due to the Lord's wish, Narottama fellasleep. In
his dream he saw Lord Caitanya on the bank of the Ganges inNavadvipa. He was
enjoying His pastimes along with Nityananda, Advaita, Gadadhara,Srivasa,
Svarupa, Narahari, Haridasa, Vakresvara, Mukunda, Murari, Govinda,Madhava,
Vasu Ghosh, Suklambara, Gauridasa, Sri Sanjaya, Damodara, Mahesa,Sankara, and
Yadu Acarya. All of them surrounded Gauranga as they engaged insankirtana,
while the people of Navadvipa witnessed their divine pastimes.Eager to inspect
this beautiful scene, even Brahma, Siva and other demigods andgoddesses
mingled with the crowd in disguise. Even the animals and birds werecharmed.
Those who were born blind, were suddenly able to see and rushed toobserve the
extraordinary sankirtana performance. Seeing this wonderful fun,Narottama wept
with joy. On seeing Narottama, Prabhu Gauracandra emotionally tookhim to His
bosom and soaked Narottama with His tears. Narottama fell onPrabhu's feet, and
the Lord affectionately lifted him from the ground and put him inthe care of
Nityananda and Advaita. He also helped Narottama to obtain themercy of His
associates, and they all advised Narottama to go to Vrndavana.Narottama was
unable to control his emotions. Observing the beauty of Nityananda,Narottama
fell on His feet, and Nityananda put His feet on Narottama's head,blessing him
with unconditional love for Sri Gauranga, then advised him to go toVrndavana.
Upon seeing the beauty of Advaita, Narottama fell at his feet, whoat once
lifted Narottama and placed him at the lotus feet of Gauranga. Hebowed to the
feet of Gadadhara, Srivasa and others who also embraced Narottamaone by one.
Narottama bathed in the tears of everyone. All of them encouragedNarottama to
go to Vrndavana. Narottama then woke up and it was morning. Heconsoled himself
and finished his daily morning duties. He wept with joy as he beganto see many
auspicious signs, indicating good fortune. In anticipation hewaited, hoping
that the fortunate moment would soon arise.
Shortly thereafter, Narottama's father and his men went to Gaudafor business.
Narottama seized the opportunity. He somehow managed to trick hismother, then
he deceived the guard watching over him and quickly left his homesecretly. In
fear of being caught, Narottama did not visit Navadvipa, butstarted towards
Vrndavana through the woods. He disguised himself in such a waythat no one
could identify him. For fifteen days he ran at random, then heaveda sigh of
relief.
The miserable condition of Narottama's parents was beyonddescription. Narottama
became the talk of Gauda, "Prince Narottama must have gone toVrajapura."
"He must be the Narottama whom Prabhu had called for in Ramakelivillage."
"The strength of mind he has manifested is not known to an ordinaryman."
In this way Narottama became very popular in that town. Nityananda,Advaita and
other favorite associates of Sri Caitanya always thought ofNarottama's well
being. It is said that he who was fortunate enough to have seenNarottama could
forget his fear of material life.
Narottama undauntedly passed through the main roads now. Who candescribe
Narottama's sincere efforts in the service of the Lord? Travelingalong the
road he sang the glories of Gauranga with continuous streams oftears rolling
down his face. Those who just once looked upon the face ofNarottama, attained
peace of mind. The villages which Narottama selected to halt ateach night
became blessed by his presence. Whether male or female, anyone whokept company
with Narottama during his journey would comment softly amongstthemselves about
the wonderful characteristics of Narottama: "Even the goldencampaka flower
would become ashamed to see the beautiful color of this youngman's
complexion."
"Look at his beautiful face and big eyes. How superb his nose,cheeks,
eyebrows, forehead and ears are."
Some one else said, "Look how long his hands are and how broad hischest is."
"Who are the fortunate parents of this extraordinary man with suchbeautiful
knees and feet?"
Some one said, "He cannot be an ordinary human being. He must be ademigod or
a son of a king."
Another person remarked, "Alas, how sad it is that such a young manhas become
apathetic toward family life."
Others said, "We wonder how his parents are living withouthim."
"Fie to providence, who has no mercy for this boy and has draggedhim out of
his family at such an young age."
Being extremely moved by Narottama's presence, no one wanted toreturn to their
houses. They brought many things for Narottama to eat and offeredhim
a comfortable bed to sleep on. But Narottama could not eat orsleep, he spent
the night in sankirtana. Everyone felt sad to see the body ofNarottama smeared
with dust. In the morning the villagers did not want to let him go,but
Narottama begged their leave. This was the normal scene whichoccurred daily
along his journey to Vraja. Narottama stole the hearts of everyonehe met.
Within a short time Narottama visited all the holy places and atlast, with an
enchanted mind, entered Vrndavana. First of all he went to visitVisrama Ghat
in Sri Mathura, where he bathed in the Yamuna and took some rest.In the
solitude of the night he began kirtana there. At that time a greatvaisnava
resident of Mathura came there carrying many varieties of Krsnaprasada and
affectionately fed Narottama. Narottama asked him about the wellbeing of
Vraja. With a pierced heart the brahmana informed him of the demiseof
Raghunatha, Kasisvara, Rupa and Sanatana. On hearing of thedisappearance of
Rupa and Sanatana, Narottama fell on the ground crying. Strikinghis head on
the ground he called out, "Kasisvara Pandita, Sri BhattaRaghunatha." Tears
streamed from his eyes like a river and he was about to faint.Seeing the
death-like state of Narottama, the brahmana took him in his lap andconsoled
him. They spent most of the night together discussing many topics.Late at
night, due to the will of the Lord, both of them fell asleep. InNarottama's
dream, Rupa, Sanatana, Kasisvara and Raghunatha appeared beforeNarottama.
Narottama at once fell on their feet. All of them embracedNarottama and soaked
him with their tears. They spoke sweetly to Narottama, some ofwhich the
brahmana could hear. With great satisfaction they showered theirblessings upon
Narottama and then disappeared.
Narottama was unable to tolerate their disappearance, he began tolament gazing
desperately in all directions. The brahmana was astonished to seeNarottama's
condition. He hastily took Narottama in his lap and tearfully spokesweetly to
him, thanking him for his purifying association. After considerabletime the
brahmana's emotions cooled and he begged Narottama to come to hishouse in the
morning. Narottama bowed before the brahmana and requested him tolet him go,
"Please be kind to me and let me go, for I am dying to see the feetof the
Gosvamis. Please be merciful and help me to fulfill my desires."With tears in
his eyes the brahmana affectionately took him in his lap andblessed him. He
accompanied Narottama for some distance but due to his old agecould not walk
further. Thus he gave Narottama directions to reach Vrndavana andordered one
man to assist Narottama in his journey. After Narottama'sdeparture, the
brahmana, with a broken heart, stood staring at the path.
While walking Narottama began to think, "Caitanya Mahaprabhu hasbrought such
a low and unqualified man as me here to the sacred land ofVrndavana. He has
sent me to the abode of mercy, Sri Lokanatha Gosvami Prabhu. Willhe accept me
as his servant? Will I be able to hold the lotus feet of Sri GopalaBhatta, Sri
Bhugarbha Gosvami, Sri Jiva Gosvami and others on my head? Willthey show their
mercy to a worthless man like me? Srinivasa Acarya who is theembodiment of
love, will he love a poor soul like me?" Thinking in this way hiseyes filled
with tears, his body trembled uncontrollably and he was unable towalk a single
step further.
Meanwhile, on the same night that Narottama entered Vrndavana,Srinivasa
suddenly became overwhelmed with joy for no apparent reason. Hetook this as
a good sign and tears of love began to fall from his eyes as hethought, "I'm
probably going to meet a very dear friend." In eager anticipationhe began
kirtana and continued on throughout the night. However, late intothe night he
fell asleep. In his dream Sri Rupa Gosvami appeared before himsaying, "Oh
Srinivasa, in the morning you will meet Narottama." Thus speaking,he
disappeared.
In the morning when Srinivasa awoke he rushed to meet Sri JivaGosvami and
revealed his dream. Sri Jiva Gosvami was very happy to hear thenews, as he had
been in great anxiety waiting for Narottama's arrival. He toldSrinivasa,
"Previously Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu told me about Narottama, and Ihave already
told you about him. This is that Narottama for whom we have beenwaiting for so
long." Saying this, Sri Jiva hurried off to the temple of SriGovinda, and
Srinivasa happily returned to his house.
Suddenly a person approached Srinivasa and informed him, "A princehas come
from Gauda. He is a young man with beautiful features and his bodyis soaked
with tears. I cannot describe the wonderful emotions of that manafter observing
the face of Sri Govinda. Crying incessantly, Sri Jiva Gosvami tookhim in his
lap and welcomed him with sweet words. He sent me to bring you tothat place."
Hearing this, Srinivasa could not control his emotions and beganrunning to the
temple of Govinda.
Srinivasa was overwhelmed to at last see Narottama. Like a poor manwho has
gained a priceless gem, Srinivasa rushed to embrace Narottama. WhatSrinivasa
expressed to Narottama through his embrace, I am unable todescribe. Nor can
I explain with one mouth how Narottama felt upon meeting Srinivasa.Everyone
began to whisper about the uncommon friendship between Srinivasaand Narottama.
They became such close friends that one could hardly differentiateone from the
other. Sri Govinda had at last fulfilled the desires of Narottama.Sri Krsna
Pandita, the head priest of Sri Govinda, brought the garlands wornby the Deity
for both of them. It should be noted that Sri Krsna Pandita was agreat scholar
and intimate associate of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. After the demiseof Kasisvara
Pandita, Sri Krsna Pandita became the head priest of Sri Govinda.Everyone knew
that Sri Krsna Pandita had great love for Narottama. Narottamahumbly bowed to
the feet of Sri Krsna Pandita.
Sri Jiva Gosvami quickly took Narottama to the solitary hermitageof Sri
Lokanatha Gosvami. They found him alone in a secluded place wherehe had been
suffering the misery of separation from Rupa and Sanatana. Sri JivaGosvami
bowed to his feet and slowly told him about Narottama. Lokanathahad been
restlessly waiting for Narottama to come, now seeing Narottamabefore him,
Lokanatha began to float in an ocean of tears. Narottama fell atthe feet of
his spiritual master, and Lokanatha placed his feet on Narottama'shead. With
sweet words he assured Narottama that after a few days he wouldinitiate him.
Again and again Lokanatha asked Sri Jiva, "Please help him toestablish his
grasp of devotional books." To Srinivasa he affectionately said,"Always make
sure he is properly situated on the path of devotion". Thusspeaking, Lokanatha
uttered the names of Rupa and Sanatana and extracted a heavy sigh.Observing
Gosvami, Sri Jiva was unable to check his tears. Sri Jiva took hisleave and
left to take darsana of the lotus feet of Sri Radhavinoda.
Thereafter Sri Jiva Gosvami took Narottama to meet Gopala BhattaGosvami. He
was also sitting alone in a secluded place, cultivating thememories of Rupa
and Sanatana. I have no words to accurately depict the sweetrelationship
between Sri Gopala Bhatta and Sri Sanatana Gosvami. This has beendescribed in
one sloka: "I worship Sri Gopala Bhatta Gosvami whose heart isfilled with love
for Sanatana and the friendship of Sri Rupa. He who worships them,is able to
obtain mercy of Sri Gopala Bhatta. I worship Sri Gopala Bhattawhose life and
soul is Sri Radharamana."
Sri Jiva Gosvami bowed to the feet of Gopala Bhatta Gosvami, whowas very happy
to meet Narottama. Narottama fell at his feet and Gosvami at onceshowed him
great affection, warmly embracing Narottama and soaking his bodywith tears.
Sri Jiva and Narottama offered their obeisances and went fordarsana of the
lotus feet of Sri Radharamana. They also went to the temples of SriGovinda,
Gopinatha and Madanamohana.
While conversing together they entered the temple of Sri Gopinatha,and Sri
Jiva introduced Narottama to Sri Madhu Pandita. Narottamaimmediately touched
the lotus feet of Sri Pandita. Sri Pandita affectionately heldNarottama to his
bosom and brought him to see Sri Radha Gopinatha. He gave thegarland which had
decorated the Deity to Narottama.
Sri Jiva Gosvami then took Srinivasa and Narottama to the house ofSri
Bhugarbha Gosvami, a great scholar and inseparable associate of SriLokanatha
Gosvami. He always spent his days in remembrance of Mahaprabhu. SriJiva
Gosvami introduced him to Narottama, who at once touched the feetof Gosvami.
Bhugarbha Gosvami embraced him very lovingly. After bowing to hisfeet, Sri
Jiva returned to his house with Srinivasa and Narottama and broughtthem before
Sri Sri Radha Damodara. Narottama was overwhelmed with love at thesight of the
Deity. How can I describe Narottama's state of mind upon seeing thetomb of Sri
Rupa Gosvami? Tears streamed down his face as he rolled on theground.
Gradually, his body became still and there was no sign of heaving.Srinivasa
quickly took him in his lap. Sri Jiva pacified him and took him tohis cottage.
Sri Jiva then received a message to go quickly to Govindaji Temple.Thus he,
Srinivasa and Narottama went to the temple and observed therajabhoga arati of
Sri Govinda. After respecting mahaprasada they returned to SriJiva's cottage.
There they spent time discussing topics related to Krsna. Laterthey went to
the temple of Sri Madanamohana and observed the uthvapana arati ofthe Deity.
Sri Jiva then introduced Narottama to everyone there. Seeing SriMadanamohana,
Narottama became overwhelmed with love, forgetting himself he weptincessantly.
The Gosvami priest lovingly gave him the garland which haddecorated the Deity.
Sri Jiva then took him to the tomb of Sanatana Gosvami. One mouthis incapable
of describing the emotions of Narottama upon observing Sanatana'stomb. With
great affection Sri Jiva pacified Narottama and brought him to hiscottage.
There he put Narottama into the hands of his dear Srinivasa. Withgreat
happiness Srinivasa bowed to the feet of Sri Jiva and started forhis cottage
with Narottama, where they spent the entire night discussing topicsrelated to
Krsna. In the morning, they bathed in the Yamuna and worshipped theLord. With
joyful minds they went to see Sri Jiva Gosvami, who immediatelysent them to
the Radha Kunda.
After observing the beauty of the two kunda's, they went to theplace of Sri
dasa Gosvami and Srinivasa cautiously introduced Narottama to him.Though Dasa
Gosvami had been in a miserable state of mind due to separationfrom the Lord
and His devotees, he suddenly became very happy. "Where isNarottama"? Saying
this he opened his eyes. Narottama bowed to his lotus feet. Beingaffectionately
moved, Dasa Gosvami showered his mercy upon Narottama. Narottamawas then
introduced to all the great scholars there. Sri Raghava Pandita,who had been
living at Govardhana, was extremely happy to see Narottama.Srinivasa and
Narottama finished their travels to all the sacred spots and thenreported back
to Sri Jiva.
Without delay Sri Jiva happily began educating Narottama. Duringhis studies
Narottama won the hearts of all with his sensitive and scholasticexplanations.
Who can understand the heart of Narottama? His service attitudetowards
Lokanatha Gosvami was beyond compare, and Lokanatha Gosvami wasextremely
pleased with his beloved disciple. One day, observing Narottama'seagerness,
Lokanatha fulfilled Narottama's long cherished desire and initiatedhim into
the chanting of the Mahamantra. Everyone in Vrndavana was greatlyimpressed by
the depth of Narottama's understanding of devotional scriptures.Thus, to
everyone's pleasure, Sri Jiva Gosvami conferred upon Narottama thetitle of
`Sri Thakura Mahasaya.' All the mahantas were filled with joy andNarottama's
fame rapidly spread throughout Vrajapura. The practice of manasaseva in
Vrndavana was first started by Narottama (this episode has beendescribed in
Bhakti-ratnakara.)
Please listen attentively as I describe how Narottama againreturned to Gauda.
I, Narahari dasa continue the narration of Sri NarottamaVilasa.
THE THIRD VILASA
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda, Advaita Acaryaand all the
devotees. Please bestow your mercy upon me. All glories to thelisteners, who
are an ocean of mercy. Now listen attentively as I continue mynarration.
After consulting with all the mahantas of Vraja, Sri Jiva Gosvamidetermined
an auspicious date for sending all of the Gosvami's manuscripts toGauda. It
had previously been predicted by the Lord Himself that these bookswould be
distributed far and wide. Thus Sri Jiva handed over all theprecious manuscripts
to Srinivasa Acarya, who was responsible for carrying them toGauda. In this
regard Sri Thakura Mahasaya composed one famous sloka: "When shallI see the
abode of mercy, Sri Caitanya Deva who has distributed his power intwo ways; He
invested Sri Rupa, and others, with the power to write devotionalbooks wherein
priceless treasures of spiritual knowledge shine like brilliantjewels. And He
has empowered Srinivasa to circulate them. Thus I worship the lotusfeet of Sri
Caitanya Deva who has manifested these two powerful mediums toshower His mercy
upon this world."
Sri Jiva Gosvami's knowledge and devotion was deeper than millionsoceans.
Although his outward expression was most stable, inwardly he wasextremely
emotional and greatly perturbed at the thought of separation fromNarottama and
Srinivasa. Nevertheless, he calmly helped Srinivasa to say good-byeto everyone
and gave him his blessings to start for Gauda at an auspiciousmoment.
With great affection Lokanatha Gosvami handed over his deardisciple, Narottama,
to the hands of Srinivasa. Again and again he instructed Narottama,"Always
remember to serve the Deities and dedicate your life to spreadingthe sankirtana
movement." Narottama happily accepted these instructions as hislife and soul,
and Srinivasa accepted the charge of Narottama jubilantly. PuttingSyamananda
and Narottama under the care of Srinivasa, Sri Jiva said, "From nowon, these
boys are yours." He ordered Syamananda , "First go to Gauda, thentravel to
Utkala via Sri Amvika Puri." (This is elaborately described inBhakti-
ratnakara). Thus taking the blessings of all the mahantas, theystarted their
long journey to Gauda. The carts filled with the priceless treasureof books
moved ahead and eleven armed guards from Vraja followed behind.With a disturbed
mind, Sri Jiva Gosvami accompanied the party to Mathura. Theresidents of
Mathura greeted them ecstatically and they rested there for thenight. Their
departure the following morning, however, was a pathetic scene, noone could
bear to see them go.
After a long journey Srinivasa, Narottama and Syamananda finallyreached
Gaudamandala and headed through the woods in the direction ofVanavisnupura. In
the midst of the forest they came upon a village were they decidedto halt for
the night. Generally they were extremely cautious about protectingthe books at
night. However, on this night, due the desire of the Lord, they allfell sound
asleep.
Meanwhile, the local king, Vira Hamvira, had received a report thatmany carts
filled with jewels, carried by a number of wealthy persons, hadarrived in their
village. Hearing this, the enthusiastic king at once sent a team ofdacoits to
rob them. The dacoits easily robbed the caskets and carried them tothe king.
Without even opening the caskets the king suddenly becameoverwhelmed with awe
and bowed to the ground again and again. Bewildered, the kingexclaimed, "Oh,
what has happened to me. What kind of jewels are in these caskets?"Saying this
the king began to weep inexplicably. In this way the goddess ofdevotion
transcendentally tricked the king. Feeling uncertain about therobbery, the king
secretly opened the caskets and found the books. Repentant, hecried out, "Alas,
what have I done? I don't know who the gentlemen are whom I havehurt. If I am
fortunate enough to meet them, I shall certainly seek their refugeand return
their books." Sitting alone in a secluded place the king lamentedin this way.
In the morning when Srinivasa and his party awoke they werehorrified to find
that the precious life-long works of the Gosvami's had been stolenby dacoits.
The miserable scene which then insued is to heart-breaking todescribe.
Throwing themselves on the ground they cried out loudly in utterdespair. They
were unable to pacify one another. A long time passed in heatedlamentation,
until Srinivasa calmed himself down and tried to pacify the others."On our long
journey we passed safely through many dangerous places. But here weaccidentally
fell asleep and everything has been easily stolen. There must besome hidden
purpose behind this incident." Sri Thakura Mahasaya also took heartand
privately said, "This must be a divine arrangement in order thatthis country
receive some special mercy." At that time they suddenly heard anoracle in the
sky, "Do not worry, the books will soon be recovered."
Shortly thereafter, someone whispered to Srinivasa, "The king isthe real
culprit, go to Vanavisnupura." Hearing this, Srinivasa firstconsoled his
companions and sent a letter to Vrndavana. He requested Sri ThakuraMahasaya to
go to Kheturi without hesitation, and told Syamananda, "Goimmediately to
Utkala via Sri Kheturi. I shall go to Vanavisnupura and fetch thebooks, then
I will send you a letter to reassure you that the books have beenrecovered. Now
don't worry and don't think about anything else." Saying this hebade farewell
to them. It was impossible for them to disobey the order of SriAcarya, yet they
could not conceal their grief when they were about to leave.Together Narottama
and Syamananda traveled to Kheturi, but Narottama did not letSyamananda go to
Utkala.
In Vanavisnupura Srinivasa bestowed his mercy upon King ViraHamvira, who
happily returned the books without hesitation. Later the king,along with his
followers and family, took shelter under the lotus feet ofSrinivasa and became
great devotees. This incident is elaborately described inBhakti-ratnakara.
Relieved and happy, Sri Acarya Thakura sent word to Vrndavanaassuring the
devotees that the books had been recovered. He also sent a letterto relieve
the minds of Thakura Mahasaya and Syamananda in Kheturi. Uponreceiving the
news they joyfully raised their hands, singing and dancingecstatically. Sri
Santosa Datta, the son of Sri Purusottama Datta, was also jubilant.Santosa was
the son of Narottama's uncle and was full of all good qualities.Krsnananda
Datta had appointed him as the heir to the throne. He was a goodand kind
hearted king and gave profuse charity to the brahmanas, scholarsand poor. Sri
Thakura Mahasaya happily sent a reply to Srinivasa inVanavisnupura.
Thereafter Syamananda took his leave. The parting of Narottama andSyamananda
was a pathetic scene. Even the animals and birds cried upon hearingthe loving
exchange between the two dear friends. Sri Thakura Mahasayaselected an escort
to accompany Syamananda to Utkala, and Syamananda began his journeywith a heavy
heart.
Syamananda traveled to Amvika via Navadvipa. There he wasoverwhelmed with
ecstatic emotion upon observing the temple of Sri Gaura-Nitai.Seeing Syamananda
crying helplessly, someone rushed to inform Sri Hrdaya Caitanya ofSyamananda's
arrival, "Your Dukhi Krsnadasa is here. I saw him lying on theground in front
of the temple praying to the Lord with extreme humility. I wascompletely amazed
by the boy's expressions of love and devotion. I cannot describehow his eyes
incessantly shed tears. Since he did not come to see you, I ranhere immediately
to inform you of his arrival."
Hearing this, Thakura was jubilant and excitedly requested that theman
immediately bring Syamananda to see him, "I am eagerly waiting forhim", he
said. "I am very proud of his devotional service. After takinginitiation from
me, he lived here for a long time and captured Sri Nitai Caitanyawith the
bonds of his love. I affectionately sent him to Vrndavana, where hecompleted
his devotional studies. During that time he wrote me regularly toinform me of
his progress. Understanding his thirst for knowledge, I permittedhim to carry
on. In Vrndavana he was so happily engaged in the service of theNikunja, that
eventually his named was changed from Dukhi to Syamananda. Everyonein Vrndavana
loves him dearly. He had already written to me that he would becoming here
soon. By the desire of Gaura Nitai he will perform exalted servicewhich will
be acknowledged throughout the world. Mind you, he is my favoritedisciple and
I am anxious to see him after such a long time."
At that moment Syamananda appeared on the spot and fell at the feetof his
spiritual master. Sri Hrdaya Caitanya Thakura affectionately placedhis feet on
Syamananda's head. When he tried to embrace his disciple,Syamananda shrank
away and stood in a distant place. Nevertheless Thakura grabbed himand embraced
him lovingly and then took him to the temple of Mahaprabhu.
There he dedicated Syamananda to the feet of Gaura-Nitai. Thakurathen brought
Syamananda to his house and gave him the remnants of his food toeat, which
Syamananda relished happily. Thakura eagerly inquired about recentevents, and
Syamananda pleased his guru with an elaborate description ofeverything.
Syamananda stayed with his spiritual master for a long time servinghim
wholeheartedly. However, one day Hrdaya Caitanya said, "Do notdelay any longer,
you must leave for Utkala at once. The Lord has many plans for youto execute
there." Saying this, he brought Syamananda before Gaura-Nitai andgave him the
garland offered to the Deities. After bestowing his blessings uponSyamananda,
Hrdaya Caitanya bade him farewell. Crying pathetically, Syamanandasaid goodbye
to his spiritual master, who was also unable to hold back histears.
I will not describe Syamananda's journey to Utkala, but I shallmention that
along the way Syamananda freely distributed his mercy and savedmany fallen
souls from the repetition of birth and death. In Utkala he acceptedmany
disciples, of which Sri Rasikananda was one. Due to the powerfulpreaching of
Syamananda and his disciples the whole country became purified. Ihave
elaborately described these incidents in Bhakti-ratnakara.
When Syamananda finally arrived in Utkala he immediately sent aletter to Sri
Thakura Mahasaya to inform him of his safe arrival. ThakuraMahasaya, who had
been waiting anxiously to hear from Syamananda, was happy andrelieved to
receive his letter. He immediately sent the letter on to thedevotees in
Vanavisnupura, and wrote a reply to Syamananda.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya then left Kheturi and started for Navadvipa.Narottama
remained in an ecstatic loving trance as he traveled, like amaddened elephant.
A continuous shower of tears streamed down his face, wetting hischest.
Everyone who saw him observed his expressions of divine love withastonishment.
As he passed through various villages the residents becameenchanted by his
presence and followed along behind him. Once he set foot in avillage, the
inhabitants ran to greet him, swarming around him like bumblebees.And when he
left the village, the inhabitants sank into the depths ofsorrow.
Traveling in this way he eventually reached the boarder ofNavadvipa. Observing
the beautiful countryside he began to lament, "Oh, most mercifulSri Caitanya
Mahaprabhu, why have you sent me into this world now? Being unableto witness
your divine pastimes in Nadia I am lost in intense suffering."Thinking in this
way, he walked on very slowly, crying pitifully. But to hisastonishment, when
he entered Navadvipa proper, he found that each and every house wasfull of joy
and happiness. In every corner the loud chanting of "Hari, Hari"resounded.
From all directions men and women eagerly rushed to the house ofSri Caitanya.
There the Lord and His associates danced ecstatically insankirtana, thus
Navadvipa was floating in the ocean of happiness.
For some time Narottama enjoyed the vision of this joyous scene,when suddenly,
everything changed. Again the city of Nadia was sunk into thedepths of despair.
Narottama burst out crying, "Oh Lord, what have I seen?" Narottamasat
thoughtfully for some time, then eventually asked a passerby wherehe could
find the house of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. With his head hung down,tears
streaming from his eyes, the man replied, "Look over there, that isthe house
of Prabhu, go in this way." Seeing the Lord's house Narottama beganto cry also.
At that time Suklambara brahmacari happened to be passing by andhis curiosity
was aroused upon seeing Narottama. Narottama bowed to his feet, andSuklambara
asked, "Who are you"? When Narottama stated his name, Suklambaraimmediately
broke out in tears and warmly embraced Narottama with deepaffection. With
a choked voice he explained to Narottama, "When Gauracandra wasabsorbed in
ecstatic trance in the village of Ramakeli, He called out your namelovingly.
Who can understand the mystery of the Lord's pastimes? At that timehe predicted
your arrival here. Oh my son, all the mahantas, including myself,have been
eagerly waiting for you. Actually Prabhu's disappearance isunbearable for us.
Some of us have already disappeared from this world."
He then introduced himself to Narottama and brought him to meet allthe other
remaining devotees of Gauranga. Narottama worshipped everyone'sfeet, and they
embraced him. Though they were merged in intense suffering due toseparation
from the Lord, they felt immediate relief and happiness upon seeingNarottama.
They eagerly questioned Narottama about many things, and Narottamahappily
answered them all. Damodara Pandita and others did not wantNarottama to leave
them, thus Narottama stayed in Nadia a few more days in the housesof the
favorite associates of Mahaprabhu. Narottama was so fortunate thatin his dreams
he was able to meet those devotees who he had not met there due totheir demise.
After a few days passed the devotees reluctantly, and with heavyhearts, allowed
Narottama to leave. They told him sweetly, "Prabhu has kept usalive only to see
you. But, alas, we will not be able to see Srinivasa." Saying this,their voices
choked with emotion. With a perturbed mind, Narottama touchedeveryone's feet
and went to Gauracandra's house for a final visit. There he foundeven the
servants and maidservants of Prabhu on the verge of death, due toseparation.
Seeing Narottama, their misery doubled. Blessing Narottama theysaid, "Due to
the wish of Prabhu, you will execute His plans and performwonderful service."
Then they bade him farewell. Narottama cried loudly and fell on theground in
the courtyard of Gauranga. After a long time, he controlled himselfand started
for Santipura.
Narottama was charmed by the beauty of Santipura. He went to thehouse of
Advaita Acarya and worshipped the feet of Sri Acyutananda, son ofAdvaita
Prabhu. He was merciful to Narottama and introduced him to all thedevotes.
Later he ordered Narottama, "Go to Nilacala first and then comeback to your
place and begin to popularize kirtana." Saying this he began toweep and his
thin body trembled. Narottama again worshipped the feet of all thedevotees and
took his leave.
Arriving at Harinadi village he crossed the Ganges and enteredAmvika. There he
asked someone where he could find the house of Hrdaya CaitanyaPandita, and
found out that he was not far away. Someone who had seen Narottamapass by,
rushed ahead to Hrdaya Caitanya and informed him excitedly, "Abeautiful young
man who is filled with love for Gaura-Nitai is coming to see you."Sri Hrdaya
Caitanya immediately understood that it was non-other than hisbeloved
Narottama. Filled with emotion, he ran to the door step to welcomehis disciple.
Narottama fell at the feet of his guru, who tearfully welcomed him,taking him
in his lap. He then took Narottama to the temple of Gaura-Nitai fordarsana.
Seeing his beloved Lord's before him, Narottama fell on the groundcrying.
Hrdaya Caitanya pacified him and gave him the Deities garland.
With great affection, Sri Hrdaya Caitanya kept Narottama with himfor 2 to 4
days and then, after dedicating him to the feet of Gaura-Nitai,ordered him to
go to Nilacala. All the great Bhagavatas, including Sri HrdayaCaitanya, were
deeply aggrieved to see him go.
Narottama traveled quickly, eager to reach Khardaha. He became soexcited upon
entering Khardaha proper, that he lost his usual reserve. MahesaPandita and
others rushed to greet Narottama when they saw him approaching. "Wewere dying
with separation from the Lord," they said, "but now you have cometo soothe our
aching hearts, like a cooling oasis in the desert of misery. Wehave known about
you for a long time and have already heard about your travels toVrndavana, the
stealing of the manuscripts, as well as your visit to Navadvipa. Weare so happy
to finally see you." Saying this they each introduced themselves,and Narottama
tearfully worshipped their feet. Thereafter they took Narottama tothe house of
Prabhu. When Sri Vasu and Jahnava were told of Narottama's arrival,they eagerly
requested that he be brought to the interior of the houseimmediately. Entering
the room, Narottama felt himself extremely fortunate and worshippedthe feet of
the two Iswari's, then bowed to the lotus feet of Sri Virabhadra.Upon seeing
Narottama, Sri Vasu and Jahnava could not conceal theiroverwhelming love for
him. "The title Mahasaya is rightly attributed to him," they said.Out of
affection, they kept Narottama with them for four days and all ofthe devotees
of Khardaha came to meet him. Sri Vasu, Jahnava and Viracandracould not bear
to leave him for a moment. The all-knowing Sri Jahnava Thakuraniprivately spoke
to Narottama and ordered him to go to Nilacala soon. At the time ofNarottama's
departure, Mahesa Pandita and others embraced Narottama again andagain and also
advised him to go to Nilacala. Narottama bowed to their feet andtook his leave
crying. The devotees accompanied him for some distance, then afterpacifying
themselves, as well as Narottama, they returned home.
He who attentively hears this narration of Narottama's journey inGauda will
have his desires fulfilled. So listen attentively as I, SriNarahari Dasa,
narrate Narottama Vilasa.
THE FOURTH VILASA
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda Prabhu, AdvaitaAcarya, and
all the devotees of the Lord. Please shower your mercy upon thispoor soul. All
glories to the all-merciful listeners. Now listen attentively as Inarrate this
episode of Narottama Vilasa.
As Sri Thakura Mahasaya began his journey to Nilacala his mind wasfilled with
loving thoughts of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. With due reverenceNarottama choose
to take the same road which had formerly been traversed by SriCaitanya Candra
Himself. At night Narottama halted at the same villages which theLord had
chosen as His resting place, and also discussed topics of Krsnawith the local
people, just as Mahaprabhu had done previously. When Narottamahappened to meet
someone who had personally met Mahaprabhu, he could not check hisemotions and
cried uncontrollably. Everyone who met Narottama was extremelypleased and
immediately began glorifying him, "Sri Krsna Caitanya is the mostmerciful and
loving incarnation. Only one who is His great devotee is capable ofdisplaying
such divine attributes as we see in this handsome young man. Justsee how
gracefully walks, and how comforting it is to one's eyes to simplyglance upon
his face." Speaking in this way the people became enchanted by thepresence of
Narottama. In the morning when it was time for Narottama to resumehis journey
crowds of local people swarmed around him, following along behindhim as he
walked. Narottama was unable to disperse the crowd, but eventually,with sweet
words, he bid them farewell and continued his journey, halting onlyin those
places where Mahaprabhu had performed His divine pastimes.
Narottama became ecstatic upon reaching the place where NityanandaPrabhu had
broken the sannyasa stick of Sri Caitanya. He listened intently asthe local
people described this incidence, then, after expressing hisgratitude to those
persons, he continued along his way.
An aged brahmana, who was a great Vaisnava scholar, happened topass Narottama
on the road. Observing Narottama's devotional mood, suddenlysomething came to
his mind. He slowly approached Narottama and asked mildly, "What isyour name,
my son? From where are you coming?"
Upon hearing Narottama's reply the brahmana's suspicion wasconfirmed. With
tears of ecstacy rolling down his face the brahmana warmly embracedNarottama
saying, "For so long I have heard about you and I was cherishingthe hope of
one day meeting you. Today providence has shown its mercy upon me.I have just
come from Ksetra, where I received the mercy of those associates ofPrabhu who
are still alive in Nilacala, and now I have luckily found you here.With great
pleasure I heard them describe your glories while I resided there.I heard that
you were bringing books from Vrndavana to Gauda, but unfortunatelythey were
stolen along the way. I also heard that you would soon be coming toKsetra and
everyone was eagerly waiting for you. Gopinatha Acarya and KasiMisra explained
that Mahaprabhu had called for you when He visited the village ofRamakeli. At
that time Nityananda and other devotees were very happy and sincethen they
have all been eagerly waiting for you. Today, I have received thegood fortune
to meet you personally, but now you must not delay. Go as quicklyas possible
to Ksetra and I shall meet you there later."
At that time the brahmana's son arrived there. He introduced hisson to
Narottama and ordered him to accompany Narottama to Ksetra. Thebrahmana then
happily bade them farewell. Narottama took the dust of the feet ofthe brahmana
to his head and started his journey with the son of thebrahmana.
Upon reaching Ksetra, Narottama and his companion observed thebeauty of Lake
Narendra. Remembering the Lord's pastimes sporting within the waterthere,
Narottama was unable to hold back his tears. He quickly took hisbath and
hurried off towards the Lion Gate.
At that time Sri Gopinatha Acarya and other devotees where alsowalking towards
the Simhadvara. While walking Sri Sikhi Mahiti said to Mangaraja,"I can't
understand why my mind is leaping with joy." And Kanai Khuntiasaid, "I don't
understand what is about to happen but it is evident from theauspicious omens
that something wonderful is awaiting us." Gopinatha Acarya toldVaninatha, "I
think we are going to meet Narottama here soon."
As they were speaking in this way the brahmana's son approachedthem and
informed them of Narottama's arrival. Who can describe the devoteesjubilation
upon receiving this news? The brahmana boy then rushed back toNarottama and
helped him to identify the devotees who were approaching from adistance.
Seeing all the devotees Narottama was overwhelmed with emotion. Heimmediately
fell on the ground bowing to their feet. With tears streaming fromhis eyes,
Gopinatha Acarya ran to greet Narottama and embraced himaffectionately.
Later, when Narottama had calmed down, they took him to the templeto see Sri
Jagannatha Deva. After entering through the Lion Gate, Narottamafirst bowed
before Sri Nrsimha Deva. Upon seeing Sri Jagannatha along with SriBalarama and
Sri Subhadra sitting on Their thrones, Narottama was filled withecstatic
emotions. Sri Padmalocana, Sri Jagannatha Deva, benevolentlybestowed His mercy
upon Narottama. The priest of Sri Jagannatha Deva, understandingthe mind of
his Lord, brought Sri Jagannatha Deva's garland and offered it toNarottama.
Narottama was unable to control his emotions and wept incessantly.After
pacifying Narottama, Gopinatha Acarya took him to his house. Therehe instructed
one experienced person to accompany Narottama to the samadhis ofthe departed
associates of the Lord. Thereafter he informed everyone ofNarottama's arrival
in Nilacala and brought varieties of mahaprasada from the templefor him.
Meanwhile, Narottama came across some persons who were talking toone another
in this way: "Alas, Nilacala has now become the abode of misery.All the
associates of Sri Gauracandra are gradually departing from thisworld. Sri
Gopinatha Acarya and other great Vaisnavas have become lean andweak." Someone
else said: "I recently visited Gopinatha and I cannot describe whatI saw there.
Unable to bear the misery of separation from Sri CaitanyaMahaprabhu, Sri Mamu
Gosvami is practically lifeless. He is lying emaciated in a lonelycorner. I am
afraid that he will die soon." Overhearing this conversation,Narottama's heart
ached with misery.
Narottama then traveled on to have darsana of Tota Gopinatha. Thevision of the
beautiful Lord with His shining black complexion seated upon Histhrone could
easily defeat the pride of Cupid. Narottama, deeply moved, laidprostrate before
the Deity crying. Seeing him the priest offered him the Lord'sgarland.
Narottama and his escort then went to see the seat of Sri PanditaGosvami. He
fell on the ground before the seat, and, again the priest gave hima garland.
Crying uncontrollably Narottama lamented, "Oh Gadadhara PanditaGosvami Prabhu,
how unfortunate I am for not having the opportunity to see you."Narottama's
pathetic crying could melt even wood or stone.
Sri Mamu Gosvami, who had been lying in a half-unconscious statecrying,
suddenly got up and heaving a heavy sigh asked, "Who is crying?"They replied,
"Narottama has arrived from Gauda." Upon hearing the name ofNarottama, he broke
out in floods of tears and embraced Narottama emotionally. Unableto control
himself, Mamu Gosvami fell on the ground, and outcry of anguisharose from
the devotees in the temple of Gopinatha. By the grace of the Lord,Mamu Gosvami
gradually calmed down and everyone was pacified. Though Gosvami'slife was in
a precarious state, he was exceedingly happy to see Narottama andasked about
his well being. Hearing Narottama's sweet words, Mamu Gosvamibecame extremely
moved by Narottama's sweet words and thus dedicated Narottama tothe feet of
Gopinatha and ordered him, "Go to see the tomb of Haridasa Thakura,Gopinatha
Acarya is waiting for you there."
Without delay, Narottama and his escort went to the tomb ofHaridasa Thakura on
the seashore. He was so shaken to see the tomb that no one couldpacify him.
Eventually, the Vaisnava in charge of the samadhi, managed toslightly console
Narottama and sent him to Gopinatha Acarya's house. GopinathaAcarya, a very
warm hearted person, with tender words encouraged Narottama to sitpeacefully
by his side and told him, "Everyone here is greatly eager to seeyou. Take some
rest now and afterwards you can meet all the devotees."
How can I describe the state of mind of the residents of Nilacala?Due to the
Lord's disappearance, they had given up eating, drinking andsleeping. They
lived only in hopes of seeing Narottama. Thus when they sawNarottama
approaching their houses, they eagerly rushed out to greet him. AsNarottama's
escort introduced each devotee, they affectionately embraced himand Narottama
and touched their feet. Thereafter they went to the house ofGopinatha who
lovingly offered them seats. Everyone had questions to askNarottama and he
answered them all, reporting everything in detail. ThereafterGopinatha Acarya
requested the devotees to relish mahaprasada along with Narottama.After washing
their mouths, they returned to their houses and requested Narottamato take some
rest.
When it was time to go to the temple, Narottama got up and took hisbath and
Kanai Khuntia took him to the temple of Jagannatha. Narottamaremained there
throughout the afternoon, observing all three arati ceremonies{sandhya
(evening) and sayana (at bed time)} one after another. He and KanaiKhuntia
then returned to the house of Gopinatha Acarya. No one wanted togive up
Narottama's association, but on the order of Acarya, they tooktheir leave.
Gopinatha, whose affection for Narottama was beyond compare, thenrequested him
to take rest. After Narottama went to bed, Gopinatha also enteredinto his room.
However, Narottama's mind was too agitated and he was unable tosleep. Yet
after some time, by the wish of the Lord, he finally fell asleepand in his
dream he saw his worshipful Lord and all the devotees dancing infront of the
chariot of Sri Jagannatha. He saw Sri Krsna Caitanya, Nitai, SriAdvaita,
Gadadhara Pandita Gosvami, Srivasa Pandita, Murari Gupta, Govinda,Haridasa,
Kasi Misra, Ramananda Raya, Vasudeva Sarvabhauma Bhattacarya,Kasisvara,
Jagadisa Pandita, Vasu Ghosh, Mukunda, Madhava, Vakresvara, Govindadasa, Mahesa
Pandita, Damodara, Svarupa Gosvami, Suklambara brahmacari, DasaGadadhara, Yadu,
Sri Kansari, Sridhara, Suryadasa, Ramai Sundara, Dhananjaya,Ramananda Vasu
Ghosh, Sankara, Sanjaya, Lokanatha, Bhugarbha, Sri Rupa, Sanatana,Sri Jiva,
Gopala Bhatta, Krsnadasa brahmacari, Pandita Raghava, ParamanandaBhattacarya,
Acarya Madhava, Raghunatha, Raghunatha Bhatta, Sri Tapana Misra,King Sri
Prataparudra, Acarya Gopinatha, Sri Sikhi Mahiti etc.
He saw all Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's devotees from Gauda, Vraja,Utkala and
South India performing pastimes with the Lord. Who could describethe
extraordinary captivating beauty of this scene? Sri Gauracandradanced in the
middle surrounded by all the devotees. Inspired by the Lord'spresence, the
devotees performed ecstatic sankirtana, joyfully dancing, singingand playing
musical instruments. The atmosphere was so divine that even thedemigods came
down from their heavenly abodes to enjoy the Lord's pastimes. Asthe sound of
sankirtana penetrated the air, the entire three worlds began tofloat on waves
of happiness. Huge crowds of people eagerly pushed forward to get aglimpse of
the Lord's beautiful dancing, as the demigods showered flowers onMahaprabhu's
head. Even the lame, the blind and the deaf suddenly forgot theirhandicaps and
dashed forward to join in the sankirtana. Even stone heartedpersons wept in
joy upon hearing the melodious chanting. Even the animals and birdsbecame
restless.
Standing in the corner Narottama joyfully watched this wonderfulscene with
tears rolling down his cheeks. Seeing Narottama, Sri CaitanyaMahaprabhu, in
trance, grabbed hold of Narottama's hands and said mildly, "Youmust manifest
a new type of kirtana which will have the potency to mesmerize thepeople.
Through your songs and music you should explain My pastimes andmission. Don't
worry about anything, all your desires will be fulfilled. Now go toGauda as
soon as possible and preach the glories of devotional service.Those who are
fortunate enough to take shelter in you, will receive the mostprecious wealth
of love of God. Soon you will link up with Ramacandra, son ofCiranjiva Sena.
What else can I say? I shall always take care of you." All thedevotees of the
Lord were extremely happy to see Lord Caitanya shower His mercy soprofusely
upon Narottama. Nityananda, Advaita, Gadadhara, Haridasa,Sarvabhauma, Ramananda
Raya, Srivasa, Vakresvara and others embraced Narottama tightly.Narottama fell
on the ground in a pool of tears. Mahaprabhu's devotees consoledNarottama and
advised him to go to Gauda.
Suddenly Narottama awoke with a heavy heart. Somehow he managed tocalm himself
and hastily finished his morning duties. Afterwards, GopinathaAcarya sent him
with Sikhi Mahiti to Sri Jagannatha Deva's arati. As soon asNarottama began to
think about going to Gauda, Lord Jagannatha's garland fell from Hisneck and
the priest gave Narottama that garland. Narottama considered thisthe Lord's
indication to him to leave at once for Gauda. After bowing to thefeet of
Jagannatha, he went to the house of Gopinatha Acarya and beforeNarottama could
say anything, Gopinatha said, "The Lord has ordered you to go toGauda." Thus
after consulting with the other mahantas of Sriksetra a date wasfixed for
Narottama's departure.
When Narottama was about to leave the devotees held his hands andsaid happily,
"We eagerly waited to meet you for so long, now are dreams havefinally been
fulfilled. We are also hoping to have so good fortune to meetSrinivasa Acarya,
and perhaps someday we will have the darsana of the exalted DukhiKrsnadasa,
who is now called Syamananda." Saying this they began to weep.Hearing their
loving words Narottama was also moved to tears. After assigning anescort to
accompany Narottama, they reluctantly bade farewell. Narottamabegan his journey
along with his escort who carefully carried a basket ofmahaprasada.
With a heavy heart and tear filled eyes, Narottama traveled untilreaching
Narendra lake. There he met the brahmana and his son whom he hadmet upon
arriving at Ksetra. Narottama took the dust of his feet to his headand the
brahmana embraced him saying, "Oh my dear Narottama, you are moredear to me
than my life. I knew that you would be passing by today on your wayto Gauda so
I finished my duties as quickly as possible. Now, by the mercy ofJagannatha
Deva, you have come. If I would have missed you I would have burnedin the fire
of my own sorrow." He did not want to let Narottama go but he hadto. He blessed
Narottama and walking along with him begging again and again tocome with him,
but Narottama would not consent.
Narottama then started walking swiftly. He took rest for two daysat Yajapura
and then went on to Nrsimhapura. Someone who spotted him rushedahead and
informed Syamananda that Sri Thakura Mahasaya was coming fromKsetra. Syamananda
was overwhelmed with ecstasy. Hurriedly, he and his men rushed togreet Sri
Thakura Mahasaya. Seeing each other, they were both overcome withemotion and
wept and bowed to each of continuously. Narottama held Syamanandatightly to his
bosom and did not want to be separated.
Those who observed their meeting were amazed. Someone said, "Oh,how incredible,
I have never seen anything so wonderful in my life." Another personcommented,
"Oh, how lucky I am to see Sri Thakura Mahasaya for whom I waswaiting for such
a long time." Someone else said, "Will we be so fortunate as to seeAcarya
Thakura once in our life?" Another person answered, "CertainlySrinivasa Acarya
will bestow his mercy upon us." Even the villagers came running tosee Sri
Thakura Mahasaya. Although Syamananda arranged a solitary house forSri Thakura
Mahasaya, still the people came to see Narottama in his house.Those persons who
had the extraordinary good fortune to receive Thakura Mahasaya andSyamananda's
association and mercy were fortunate beyond compare. The entirecountry became
blessed by contact with Sri Syamananda (Narottama?).
Sri Thakura Mahasaya happily bathed and performed his other duties.Afterwards
he sat down with Syamananda, who slowly informed Narottama, "A fewdays ago
Acarya Thakura left Vanavisnupura for Yajigrama. Yesterdayafternoon I received
this letter. Please look at it." Narottama cried joyfully andhappily read the
letter with the utmost care. Syamananda then explained, "He sentanother letter
along with mahaprasada from Sri Amvika." Again Narottama's heartsurged with
happiness and he praised Syamananda for his good fortune. Touchingthe
mahaprasada to his head, he ate some of it and became mad with joy.Sri Thakura
Mahasaya ordered his men, "Bring the mahaprasada of Sri Jagannathaand gave
some of it to Syamananda." Narottama then carefully explained toSyamananda,
"The associates of Lord Caitanya who are still alive in Nilacalaare now
suffering greatly due to the miserable fire of separation. I cannotdescribe
their condition. Only due to the Lord's desire they are stillalive. They are
simply waiting to see you. So, please do not make delay, start forNilacala at
once. After touching the feet of the devotees there, go to Utkalaand benedict
the people there by distributing the sublime treasure of puredevotional
service. After some time I will send you a letter, requesting youand your men
to go to Kheturi."
Syamananda and Narottama stayed together a few more days, meanwhilethe entire
village came to know of Syamananda and Narottama's eminentdeparture. Who could
describe the sadness at the time of their separation? All ofSyamananda's
disciples cried miserably, especially Rasika Murari could not stopcrying. Sri
Thakura Mahasaya affectionately embraced him and was extremelyloving and
merciful to all those who had taken shelter at the feet ofSyamananda. Thakura
Mahasaya blessed all of them and then started for Gauda. At thispoint
Syamananda helplessly broke out in tears and no one could pacifyhim.
Thereafter, with a heavy heart, Syamananda began his journey toNilacala.
I have described Syamananda's journey to Nilacala inBhakti-ratnakara.
Please listen attentively as I, Narahari, narrate NarottamaVilasa.
THE FIFTH VILASA
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda, Advaita and allthe
devotees. Please bestow your mercy upon this poor soul. All gloriesto the
merciful listeners. Now listen attentively as I continue mynarration.
When Narottama arrived at the famous village of Srikhanda in Gauda,someone
spotted him approaching the house of Sarkara Thakura and rushedahead to
announce his arrival: "A very attractive man with a magnificentgait is coming
this way, along with four other persons. Most likely he is comingfrom
Nilacala." Thakura immediately understood that it was none otherthan Narottama.
Seeing Narottama in the distance, Sri Raghunandana rushed to greethim. When
the local people informed Narottama about Raghunandana, he happilyfell on the
ground offering obeisances as Raghunandana approached him running.Raghunandana
immediately embraced Narottama. Speechless with emotion he crieduncontrollably.
Gradually he managed to calm himself and quickly took Narottama tohis house.
There Narottama saw Sri Sarkara Thakura and fell at his feet.
Though Sarkara Thakura was sunk in the ocean of sorrow due toseparation from
the Lord, when he saw Narottama he was overwhelmed with joy. Hetook Narottama
in his lap and tearfully told him, "I am so happy to see you. InMahaprabhu's
absence, He will distribute love of God through you. Many fallensouls will
take shelter in you, and you will spread the Lord's ecstaticmessage by
manifesting a new type of kirtana. In this way all your desireswill be
fulfilled by the mercy of Lord Caitanya. Do not worry aboutanything. You
should go to Kheturi via Yajigrama, as Srinivasa Acarya recentlyreturned from
Vanavisnupura and is eagerly waiting for you there. He isconstantly thinking
about you. Yesterday he came here but returned to his house on thesame day."
After that he asked Narottama about Sri Ksetra and Narottamavividly reported
everything, which filled Sarkara Thakura with ecstatic emotions.Checking his
sentiments, Thakura ordered Sri Raghunandana to take Narottama tothe courtyard
of Gauranga.
Upon seeing the Deity of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Narottama couldnot control
himself and fell on the ground in a pool of tears. The priest triedto console
him by offering him the garland from the Deity. Having heard ofNarottama's
arrival, the inhabitants of Srikhanda eagerly gathered in thecourtyard of
Gauranga to greet and praise Narottama. Narottama then took somemahaprasada to
the house of Sri Sarkara and asked Raghunandana to offer it toSarkara Thakura,
who became ecstatic upon eating the prasada of Sri Jagannatha. Hethen ordered
Sri Raghunandana to distribute the mahaprasada to all the devotees.Thus
everyone relished the prasada, while absorbed in memories of SriGauranga and
His pastimes in Nilacala. Thereafter they sat together and enjoyeddiscussions
about Sri Krsna. In this way the devotees happily treasuredNarottama's
association and could not even think of being separated fromhim.
In the morning, Narottama finished his daily duties, took darsanaof Sri
Gauranga, and went to meet Sarkara Thakura. With deep feeling andgravity
Thakura looked at Narottama and said, "How peaceful it is to lookupon your
face. I shall not have this opportunity a second time." Narottamacould not
bear this sad thought and fell at Thakura's feet crying. SriThakura embraced
Narottama and bade him farewell. Narottama bowed to the feet of allthe
inhabitants of Srikhanda and began his journey. Sri Raghunandana,not wanting
to leave Narottama's company, walked along with him for somedistance. He then
appointed one man to accompany Narottama to Yajigrama and tearfullysaid
goodbye.
Upon reaching Yajigrama, the escort pointed to one house and said,"That is
the house of Srinivasa Acarya where he teaches his students."
In the meantime someone reported to Acarya that Sri ThakuraMahasaya had come
from Sri Ksetra. Srinivasa Acarya at once got up and hurriedtowards the door,
when Narottama suddenly entered the house. Seeing each other, theirhearts
leapt with joy and both of them burst into tears. Narottama fell atAcarya's
feet and Acarya lovingly embraced him. Who can understand thenature of such
exalted personalities? Although physically two different persons,they were of
suchlike minds that they felt as if one. When they had calmed downthey sat and
conversed together intently.
In the meantime, a learned brahmana, who had come from Ksetra inhopes of
studying the books of the Gosvamis, arrived there. He politelysubmitted himself
before Srinivasa, who inquired from him about events in SriNilacala.
Heaving a heavy sigh, the brahmana said tearfully, "Nilacala haslost her
jewels. Since the day that Thakura Mahasaya left a chain ofmiserable events
has come to reign there. Practically all the associates of SriCaitanya
Mahaprabhu began to disappear from this world. Syamananda facedterrible
miseries when he arrived there. Only due to the will of the Lord,was he able
to maintain his life. Those who are still alive, consoledSyamananda and bade
him farewell. Then he returned to his own place. I witnessed all ofthis with
my own eyes and was unable to stay there any longer, so I startedwalking and
didn't not stop until I reached Gauda." Saying this the brahmanabegan to cry,
calling out the names of the departed devotees of Ksetra. AcaryaThakura,
Narottama, Vyasa Cakravarti and Krsnavallabha all cried along withhim.
Considerable time passed before Acarya Thakura was able to consolehimself and
the brahmana. He then arranged accommodations for the brahmana andfrom that
day began teaching him. Who knows what Acarya Thakura and Narottamadiscussed
privately amongst themselves?
The next day morning, Thakura Mahasaya took his leave of AcaryaThakura. Acarya
Thakura stood stone-like staring at the path which Narottamatraversed, bathing
himself with his own tears. Vyasa Cakravarti and a few otherdevotees
accompanied Narottama for some distance, until Narottama verylovingly forbade
them go any further.
Narottama eventually arrived at Kantakanagara, the place of SriKesava Bharati.
Who can describe Narottama's condition upon seeing Dasa Gadadhara'sDeity of
Sri Gauranga there? Sri Yadunandana Cakravarti, the disciple of SriGadadhara
and a scholar of all scriptures, became excited when he sawNarottama and
hurried out of the temple to greet him. He offered the Lord'sgarland to
Narottama and embraced him warmly with tears in his eyes. In achocked voice he
told Narottama, "It is so wonderful that you have finally comehere. Prabhu
Gadadhara has been impatiently waiting for you for a long time.Again and again
he has asked me, `Go see whether Narottama has come yet.' Oh mydear brother,
what can I say? The ocean of misery is extremely turbulent here.After the
demise of Sri Visnupriya Iswari, my Prabhu returned from Navadvipaand has been
spending his days alone here. Lost in an ocean of misery, he isunable to eat
and has become completely emaciated."
Saying this he took Narottama to Dasa Gadadhara who was sittingalone with dust
all over his body. His closed eyes continuously shed tears. Mergedin thoughts
of Sri Gaurahari, he sighed heavily and repeatedly uttered, "Hari,Hari." At an
opportune moment, Yadunandana said quietly, "Narottama has comefrom Ksetra."
As soon as the name of Narottama entered his ears, Sri Gadadharaopened his eyes
crying loudly. With outstretched hands, he embraced Narottamasoaking him with
his tears. Narottama touched the feet of Gadadhara and reportedeverything to
him about his recent travels. Blessing Narottama, Sri Gadadharasaid, "All your
desires will be fulfilled. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu will definitelydance along
with your kirtana. Now you should go to Kheturi and distribute loveof God to
the people there."
Sri Yadunandana then took Narottama to another dwelling place andsaid, "See,
this is the place where Sri Kesava Bharati lived. And here is theplace where
Prabhu cut His hair and took sannyasa from Bharati." At this pointthey broke
into tears and Narottama fell unconscious on the ground. A longtime passed
before they were able to enter into the temple and observe thebeautiful Deity
of Gauracandra. Narottama stayed there for the day and thefollowing morning,
thinking of the lotus feet of Sri Nityananda Balarama, he startedfor Ekacakra
village in Radha.
At the entrance of the village Nityananda, in the guise of an oldbrahmana,
asked Narottama, "What is your name and from where are you coming?Where will
you go and for what purpose?" Narottama replied, "I am Narottama,coming from
Ksetra. I have come to the birth place of Nityananda, whose parentswere
Padmavati and Hadai Pandita, because I want to see the sacredplaces where Sri
Nityananda Prabhu performed his pastimes. I live on the other sideof the
Padmavati in Sri Kheturi and from here I shall return there."
Hearing Narottama's sweet words, the old brahmana smiled andwithout disclosing
anything said, "I know everything. Come along with me, I shall showyou all."
The brahmana guided Narottama to a particular spot and said, "See,this is the
place where Nityananda and His friends enjoyed grazing cattle likethe Gopas.
Nityananda roamed about in this area holding His club and plow. Andthis is the
place where He performed Ramalila. As Balarama performed Hispastimes in
Svetadvipa, similarly Nityananda performed His pastimes here. Nowlet me show
you the house of Hadai Pandita where Nityananda Raya took birth.Here is the
spot where He held a snake. See, over here, this is where HisGurukarana
ceremony was performed. Now look at this temple of Visnu where Heused to
worship the Lord. This is where that sannyasi came and ate andafterwards
begged Nityananda from his father. This is the road by which thesannyasi and
Nityananda left, followed by all the inhabitants of this village.In this spot
Nityananda's mother loudly lamented for her son, and over hereHadai Pandita
rolled on the ground in anguish at losing his son. Here Padmavatidevi laid
unconscious and Hadai Pandita consoled her. Oh Narottama, mindthese places
which I am showing you are beyond the grasp of even the demigods.In this
Ekacakra village, Nityananda Raya still performs His pastimes andonly the
fortunate can see them." Saying this much, the brahmanavanished.
The sudden disappearance of the old brahmana bewildered Narottama."What is
this," he thought, "one moment he was here and then he vanishedlike a bolt
from the blue." Narottama became extremely restless and thought,"If I cannot
see him anymore, I shall commit suicide by entering into fire."Saying this
Narottama began to lament pitifully.
Nityananda Haladhara who is an ocean of mercy again appeared beforeNarottama
in the guise of the old brahmana. This time, the brahmana suddenlyturned into
Balarama, carrying his club and plow, wearing a topknot on his headand dressed
in beautiful garments. Then suddenly Balarama turned intoNityananda. Smilingly
he said to Narottama, "You are my favorite, I have no intention todeceive you.
Very soon all your desires will be fulfilled. But don't disclose toanyone that
you have seen Me here." Saying this He disappeared. Narottama stoodtransfixed
like a statue, unable to move or speak. He stayed that day atEkacakra and the
following morning, while glorifying Nityananda Prabhu, King ofEkacakra, the
son of Rohini and the life of the most fallen souls, Narottamabegan his
journey. Crossing over the Padmavati river he headed towardsKheturi.
Listen attentively as I, Narahari, narrated this NarottamaVilasa.
THE SIXTH VILASA
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda Prabhu, AdvaitaAcarya and
all the devotees. Please bestow your benedictions upon this fallensoul. All
glories to the merciful listeners. Now hear attentively as Icontinue this
narration.
At an auspicious time, Narottama crossed the Padmavati and enteredSri Kheturi.
People from every corner of the village happily flocked to see him.Sri Santosa
Datta and others greeted Sri Thakura Mahasaya and arrangedaccommodations for
him in a solitary house. Nevertheless, the house was packed untilthe evening
with enthusiastic villagers eager for his darsana.
In the evening when Narottama was finally alone, he began to thinkdeeply about
his devotional service to Sri Krsna. Eventually, by the Lord'sarrangement, he
finally fell asleep late in the evening. In a dream the son of Sacitold him,
"Oh Narottama, in the hope of your coming here, I hid Myself in theform of
a metal Deity in the house of an influential landlord. Everyoneknows him
because he is a rich man with many rice-go-downs, but no one willapproach these
go-downs because they are full of poisonous snakes. In one of thebigger
go-downs I have concealed Myself. Quickly go and open the door ofthat go-down
and bring Me to your house." He then advised Narottama to have moreDeities
made and then vanished after embracing him.
Narottama excitedly woke to find that it was still dark. He spentthe rest of
the night performing sankirtana and in the morning quicklycompleted his daily
duties. He then asked various persons if they knew of a rich manwho had many
rice go-downs which were infested with snakes. Everyone knew theman, and
Narottama requested them to take him there. Thus Narottama, alongwith a few
others, went to the rich man's house, who was greatly surprised andhappy to
receive them. Sri Thakura Mahasaya immediately proceeded straighttowards the
rice go-down. The rich man was horrified, falling at Narottama'sfeet he begged
with folded hands, "Everyone knows that these go-downs are infestedwith snakes.
Many snake tamers have tried to clear them out but their attemptswere in vain.
Long ago I gave up hope of getting rid of the snakes and, althoughI lost
considerable money, I was forced to close the buildings down. Icould not
possibly allow you to go inside. Please tell me, what I can do foryou?"
Thakura Mahasaya simply laughed and said, "Don't be nervous, Ishall clear it
out now. I have very important business to attend to within yourgo-down.
Afterwards you will be relieved and happy to see what I will bringout from
inside." Saying this, Thakura Mahasaya undauntedly walked towardsthe go-down,
as the spectators trembled in fear. But when the snakes saw ThakuraMahasaya,
they immediately left the go-down and went away. In a trance oflove, Narottama
opened the door and found Navadvipa Candra with His consort. Theirbodies were
fully decorated with ornaments and Their brilliant beauty wasbeyond compare.
When Narottama picked Them up and lovingly clasped Them to hisheart, he was
suddenly jolted as if struck by a bolt of lightning.
Everyone was spellbound to see the Deities and began shouting withjoy. Someone
remarked, "It is not possible for an ordinary human being to dosuch a thing."
Someone else said, "Who can understand him? Because of his presenceour village
has become blessed." Another person commented, "If we are fortunateenough,
perhaps we can receive his blessings." All of them danced happily,calling out
the name of Narottama.
As Narottama carried the Deities, a huge crowd followed alongbehind him. Upon
reaching his house, he placed Sri Gauranga and His consort on abeautiful
celestial seat. With unblinking eyes he stared at the Lord cryingincessantly.
Suddenly a thought came to his mind and began spontaneously singinga beautiful
kirtana about the glories of Gauracandra which he had written buthad not yet
been heard by others. Narottama sang and danced gracefully, puttingthe
Gandharvas to shame. Even the Yavanas and the wicked souls becamemad and sang
the glories of Gauranga's pastimes. The sound of kirtana coveredthe entire
world and the demigods showered flowers from the heavens.Gandharvas and
Kinnaras remarked with amazement, "Who is that extraordinary personwho has
suddenly manifested this most sublime and beautiful kirtana? Evenwe are not
familiar with this type of singing. It appears that the dance,music and
instruments have all become personified by his singing. Some of thedevotees of
Caitanya have this type of extraordinary power. All the devotees ofSri Caitanya
Mahaprabhu are worshipable by even the demigods and goddesses."Saying this,
they accepting the guise of human beings, came before Narottama andfell at his
feet. Thus from that very special day the super-excellent kirtanaof Sri
Narottama dasa Thakura was inaugurated. On that same day BalaramaVipra and
others happily took initiation from Sri Thakura.
With a satisfied heart, Sri Thakura Mahasaya began to serveGauracandra and
Laksmi Visnupriya. He appointed Balarama Vipra and others to takecharge of the
Deities' service. As ordered in a dream, he also installed fivemore Deities.
After this he began to feel anxious about not having heard fromSrinivasa
Acarya for so long. He wanted to find out some news, but thought,"Without his
permission, how can I send anyone to see him? Yet no one has comefrom
Yajigrama in such a long time. Now, I am at a loss as to what todo." Just as
he was thinking in this way a man suddenly arrived from Yajigrama.With great
relief Thakura Mahasaya eagerly inquired about events there. Thedevotee
replied, "Everything is fine there, but Acarya Thakura is alwaysthinking of
you and missing your association. He regularly visits Sri Khandaand
Kantakanagara, and has also gone to Navadvipa. One day when he wasin Khanda,
Sri Sarkara Thakura spoke with him and again requested that hemarry. This time
he could not disobey Thakura. Thus he married and settled atYajigrama, where
many scholars and learned persons regularly visit. Now Ramacandra,a learned
son of Sri Ciranjiva Sena of Khanda, has become the disciple ofAcarya, and
many others have also accepted initiation from him.
He has also successfully distributed all of the books of theGosvamis. He sent
a message to Sri Vrndavana, and one man brought a reply along withmore books
written by Sri Jiva Gosvami. Acarya has already distributed thesenew books
everywhere.
Recently Srinivasa received a letter from Navadvipa, carryingdevastating news.
Many of the Lord's associates from Santipura and the surroundingareas, who
were suffering intensely in the fire of separation, have now leftthis world.
Hearing about the demise of Sri Sarkara Thakura and Sri DasaGadadhara,
Srinivasa Acarya sank deep in the ocean of despair. I cannotdescribe his state
of mind. Sometimes we were afraid of his life. One day being unableto bear the
pain of separation, he left for Vrndavana without tellinganyone.
The Gosvamis were overjoyed to have Srinivasa's company. Theyhappily sat him
down and inquired about his well-being and listened intently to thefull account
of carrying the manuscripts to Gauda. In this way they happilyspent four or
five days together.
Around that time, Sri Ramacandra Sena came there to meet SrinivasaAcarya. When
the Gosvamis were informed of Ramacandra's scholarly capabilities,they
conferred upon him the title of "Kaviraja." The Gosvamis eagerlylistened as
Ramacandra gave a full account of Srinivasa Acarya's marriage.
Thereafter Sri Jiva Gosvami and the others gladly handed over morebooks to
Srinivasa Acarya, appointed four Vrajavasis to accompany him, andbade him
farewell. Sri Gopala Bhatta, Lokanatha, and everyone there wasextremely sad to
see him leave. Srinivasa quickly returned to Gauda and then went toVisnupura
to relieve the king. I heard that he would be coming soon toYajigrama, so
I immediately came here to inform you."
During the course of this conversation, two messengers suddenlyarrived with
another letter for Narottama from Sri Acarya and Narottama happilyread aloud,
"I left my house, along with my followers, and went to Kancanagariawhere
I initiated two devotees, who are the bearers of this letter. Thesetwo
brothers, Sridasa and Gokulananda, are the sons of Dvija Haridasa,a prominent
follower of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Being ordered by their father,they
accepted initiation from Me. Yesterday I left Kancanagaria andstarted for
Vudhuri."
Reading this, Narottama exclaimed, "Oh what a wonderful morning forme," and
happily escorted the two messengers to the temple of Sri Gaura.There he
introduced them to Balarama Pujari, who gladly brought themmahaprasada.
Thakura Mahasaya then went to inspect whether all the preparationsfor the
forthcoming festival were ready or not. He was happy to find thatall the
go-downs were full of commodities. He then engaged various personsto specific
assignments for further preparations. The next morning he left,along with
Devidasa, Gokula and Gauranga and started for Vudhuri.
When Narottama reached Vudhuri someone rushed ahead and announcedhis arrival to
Sri Acarya, who happily hurried out of the house and foundNarottama standing
there. Narottama fell at his feet, and Sri Acarya Thakura embracedhim warmly.
He then introduced Narottama to Ramacandra and the otherdevotees.
Sitting in a quiet place they discussed many topics; Srinivasaexplained how he
had met Ramacandra and initiated him, how his marriage hadoccurred, how
Ramacandra received the title "Kaviraja," his journey fromYajigrama to Vudhuri
and how he conferred the title of "Kaviraja" upon Govinda. He theninquired
about Narottama's well being, and Narottama gradually explained howSri Santosa
Raya and others had became his disciples, how he rescued the Deityof Sri
Gaurahari and arranged to have five more Deities carved and how hewas making
preparations for the forthcoming great festival. Narottama said,"As soon as I
received your letter, I decided to hold the festival on thefull-moon day of
Phalguna." Thereafter they sat together and compiled a list ofdevotees to
invite to the festival and immediately sent out the invitationletter to all
the devotees of Sri Gaurangamandala. Narottama also wrote a letterinviting
Syamananda from Utkala. Sri Acarya and Narottama then sat togetherdiscussing
privately. Later, Sri Acarya put Ramacandra under the care ofNarottama.
Within a few days, news of Sri Acarya, Narottama and Ramacandraspread like
wildfire. In every corner people were speaking about them: "Theyhave mercifully
appeared in this world to save the fallen souls from this hellishmaterial
existence." Another person said, "Although three separate persons,they are so
deeply united that they appear to be one."
After four days had passed Sri Acarya permitted Narottama to returnto Kheturi
and instructed Ramacandra and others to accompany him. Uponarriving in Kheturi
they immediately went for darsana of Sri Gauranga. There theyhappily met the
disciples of Thakura Mahasaya, who were all abodes oftranscendental qualities.
Thereafter they inquired about the preparations for the festivaland were
pleased to find an enormous collection of the necessarycommodities. Sri Thakura
Mahasaya arranged separate private houses for Ramacandra and theothers, where
they all waited anxiously for the arrival of Sri Acarya.
Shortly thereafter, when Sri Acarya Thakura, along with Govinda andother
devotees, arrived in Kheturi, a wonderful scene ensued as all theVaisnavas ran
out to greet them. They happily escorted Sri Acarya to a beautifulhouse and
then took him for darsana of Sri Gauranga. Upon seeing the Deityalong with His
consort, Laksmi-Visnupriya, Acarya was filled with ecstatic love.He then saw
the other five Deities and was equally overjoyed to see each one.Sri Acarya
then inspected the go-downs, but his mind was constantly distractedby thoughts
of Sri Syamananda Prabhu. As he was thinking in this way, someonesuddenly
announced that Syamananda had just arrived from Utkala.
Hearing this, Acarya and his men dashed to welcome him. WhenSyamananda and his
companions entered the house of Sri Acarya, Syamananda could notcheck his
emotions. They embraced, soaking each other with their tears.Acarya then asked
about Syamananda's well being. The same emotional scene occurredwhen Narottama
arrived there. Sri Thakura Mahasaya then introduced Syamananda toall the
Vaisnavas, and Sri Syamananda in turn introduced Rasikananda andhis other
devotees. Sridasa, Gokulananda, Vyasa Cakravarti, Ramacandra andGovinda
Kaviraja were extremely happy to meet Cattaraja, Ramakrsna, Kumudaand the
others. Narottama then took Ramacandra and Syamananda to abeautiful house and
said to Rasikananda affectionately, "My dear Rasikananda, try tomanage
everything smoothly and peacefully. Be very careful to look afterthe guests so
they do not experience any inconvenience." Rasikananda listenedhumbly with
folded hands and remained quiet. His humility charmed the heart ofNarottama.
Thakura Mahasaya and Ramacandra returned to Sri Acarya's place andsent Sri
Govinda Kaviraja to take Syamananda to the temple of SriGaurasundara.
Syamananda was ecstatic to see the beautiful form of the Lord andrequested to
see the other five Deities. Govinda also showed Syamananda thestore rooms. Sri
Rasikananda, Purusottama, Sri Kisora and other devotees had broughtmany items
from home to contribute for the festival. Thus their gifts wereadded to the
huge stock. In this way the commodities increased and the storerooms bulged
with goods. Syamananda then went to Sri Acarya's place and togetherthey
relished discussions about Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. In this waythat wonderful
day came to a close.
In the morning everyone completed their daily duties and began towonder why
Sri Jahnava Devi had not arrived in Kheturi yet. As they werethinking in this
way, a brahmana arrived and reported that Sri Jahnava Iswari hadjust crossed
the River Padmavati. Everyone happily scrambled towards the bank ofthe river
to greet Sri Iswari. The news rapidly spread and people camerunning from all
directions.
After bowing to her feet, Acarya asked about her well-being. Shereplied, "Upon
receiving your letter we were all extremely anxious to come toKheturi at once."
At that time when Jahnava had received the invitation to Kheturi,Krsnadasa
Atyudara, the elder brother of Suryadasa Sarkhela, was also presentthere.
Hearing about the forthcoming festival, Srila Raghupati Upadhyaya,Murari,
Caitanya, Jnanadasa, Manohara, Kamalakara Pippalai, Sri JivaPandita, Madhava
Acarya, Nrsimha Caitanya Dasa, Kanai, Sankara, Sri Gaurangadasa,Vrndavana, Sri
Minaketana, Ramadasa, Nakari, Sri Balarama and others, bowed to thefeet of
the two Iswaris and humbly said, "We would also like to go toKheturi." Hearing
this Sri Jahnava happily requested Sri Paramesvara dasa to beginpreparations
for their journey immediately.
On the day of Sri Iswari's departure, many Vaisnavas from distantplaces came to
see Sri Iswari and when they came to know about the festival, theyalso were
eager to go along with her. They enthusiastically rushed back totheir houses
and began preparing for the journey. For this reason the entireparty was held
up for some time.
At the time of their departure they suddenly heard a deep voicespeaking to them
from the sky saying, "Srinivasa and Narottama are extremely dear toMe and are
empowered by Me to distribute divine love. I am completely bound bytheir love.
In Kheturi you will all see Me dance in the sankirtana along withMy companions.
The power of My love will drive the three worlds mad and no onewill escape.
Your journey will certainly be a great success. Everyone is eagerlywaiting for
you. From Kheturi, you should go to Vrndavana, and when you returnfrom
Vrndavana you should distribute pure devotional love toeveryone."
Upon hearing this voice, Sri Iswari wept with joy, and all thegreat
personalities assembled there were overcome with happiness. SriJahnava consoled
Sri Vasu devi, Ganga and Viracandra and, chanting the holy names ofGaura
Nityananda, she and her party began their journey by boat toKheturi. Meanwhile,
news of Sri Iswari's future trip to Vraja via Kheturi spreadeverywhere.
After some distance, they stopped the boat and Sri Iswari visitedthe house of
a fortunate merchant who was always absorbed in the glories ofNityananda
Prabhu. His love overflowed to have Iswari in his house. Favoringthem, Sri
Iswari decided to take rest for the day in his house. RaghunathaKhaja, son of
Bhagavan and favorite disciple of Jagadisa Pandita, came to meetIswari at that
time.
Early the next morning they started for Amvika, where Sri HrdayaCaitanya
greeted Sri Iswari. Seeing the Deities there of NitaiCaitanyacandra, she was
filled with ecstatic emotions, and thereafter she and hercompanions took
prasada. Sri Jahnava reported everything to Hrdaya Caitanya whoalso decided to
go to Kheturi. In the meantime, Sri Caitanyadasa, son of SriVansivadana, came
to meet Sri Iswari and also decided to go to Kheturi. At that timeone man came
from Santipura and reported that Sri Acyutananda, son of AdvaitaPrabhu, was
practically dead due to the unbearable misery of separation fromthe Lord. His
mother, Sri Sita, ordered him to go to Kheturi and thus theyplanned to start
in the morning. Hearing this, Sri Iswari became so happy that sheimmediately
instructed him to tell Acyutananda that he should travel along withher party.
Sri Iswari and her companions happily spent that night in the houseof Hrdaya
Caitanya Pandita. In the morning she observed Sri Mangala Arati anddedicated
herself to the feet of Nitai Caitanya. She then started forNavadvipa.
Reaching the outskirts of Navadvipa, she began to weep thinking ofthe wonderful
pastimes of the Lord. When the favorite associates of CaitanyaMahaprabhu who
were still alive in Navadvipa heard that Sri Jahnava had come totheir place,
they all rushed happily to meet her. As she got down from thepalanquin all the
Vaisnavas of Navadvipa bowed to her feet, and she introduced hercompanions to
the Navadvipa devotees. How can that glorious meeting be described?Many of the
devotees were bowing at each other's feet, while others embracedone another,
and still others began to loudly sing the glories to Sri CaitanyaMahaprabhu.
A long time passed before they were capable of checking theirecstatic loving
feelings.
Eventually Pandita Sripati, brother of Srivasa Pandita, suggestedto Sri Madhava
Acarya and others, "I think we should take bath here in theGanges." Everyone
was delighted by the proposal and rushed to take their bath.Meanwhile, Sripati
quickly went to Navadvipa and returned with many items. Sri JahnavaIswari
cheerfully fed them and afterwards took something herself.
The party then entered into Navadvipa and went to the house ofSrivasa. Advaita
Prabhu's son, Sri Gopala, brother of Acyuta, Sri Kanu Pandita,Visnudasa
Mahasaya, Vanamali dasa and other great Vaisnavas came to greetthem. Everyone
was jubilant to meet one another. Srimati Iswari privately spoke toAcyutananda,
explaining about the festival. Delighted, he immediately announcedto his
followers about the upcoming Kheturi festival. Quickly the newsspread
throughout Navadvipa and everyone was eager to attend the festival.Afterwards
they all met in the house of Srivasa and took their meals.Meanwhile people
from all over Navadvipa came running to see the meeting of theVaisnavas.
A long time passed joyfully in this way until eventually thedevotees went to
bed.
Early in the morning they resumed their journey. Upon arriving inAkaihata, they
went to the house of Krsnadasa, the great singer, who quicklyarranged food for
them. He also prepared himself for going to Kheturi.
The next morning they again traveled on until they reachedKantakanagara.
Krsnadasa Thakura was the first to be informed of their arrival andimmediately
came forward to greet them and brought them to his house. Veryshortly
thereafter, Sri Raghunandana and his companions arrived there, thenVaninath
and Sivananda came along with others. Vallabha, Caitanya dasa,Bhagavatacarya,
Nartaka (dancer) Gopala, Jita Misra, Raghu Misra, Kasinath Pandita,Uddhava,
Sri Nayanananda Misra and other favorite followers of CaitanyaMahaprabhu also
came there. Everyone was overjoyed to meet one another andoverwhelmed upon
seeing the beauty of Sri Gauranga and Dasa Gadadhara. Afterwardsthey tearfully
went to see the place where the Lord accepted sannyasa. A long timepassed
before they were able to calm themselves, eventually they went totake bath in
the Ganges.
Meanwhile Sri Yadunandana collected many varieties of sweet forthem and after
offering them to Sri Gaurangacandra, placed separate plates ofsweets in
separate rooms. After coming back from the Ganges they very gladlytook
mahaprasada. On that day, Sri Jahnava Iswari in a happy mood wentto cook for
the devotees. She cooked various items and then offered them toSri
Gaurangacandra, who very happily accepted them. After some time,she
affectionately distributed prasada to all the devotees. Everyonedelightedly
relished the prasada which tasted like nectar. Afterwards SriIswari took some
prasada. After her, Sri Yadunandana and others ate.
Yadunandana, being extremely moved by remembrance of his spiritualmaster, Dasa
Gadadhara, began preparing for the trip to Kheturi. He carefullyinstructed the
priest of the temple to be attentive to the service of SriGauranga. By the
evening all the preparations were complete.
In the meantime, all the mahantas gathered in the courtyard of SriGauranga.
After observing Sri Gauranga's arati ceremony, they startedsankirtana. In this
way most of the night passed in glorification of Krsna. Late atnight they took
a short nap. In the morning, after offering their obeisances at thefeet of
Gauracandra, they started out for Kheturi and very soon theycrossed the River
Padmavati. Sri Iswari sent a messenger to inform Acarya Thakura oftheir
arrival. Excited and happy, Sri Acarya, Sri Thakura Mahasaya andSyamananda all
stood together, shining as brilliantly as the sun, expectantlystaring at the
path waiting for her arrival. Seeing these three exalted soulswaiting on the
path, Sri Iswari could not contain her emotions and got down fromher palanquin,
while Srinivasa and others ran to her and fell at her feet.Srinivasa and the
other devotees then bowed to the feet of Sri Acyutananda and therest of the
devotees. Everyone was overwhelmed with intense loving sentiments -someone held
on to Srinivasa crying, and someone else embraced Narottama,another devotee
could not let Ramacandra out of his embrace, while another personsoaked Sri
Gokulananda with his tears. One devotee stretched out his arms togreet Sridasa,
and another affectionately embraced Syamananda and GovindaKaviraja.
When the party entered into Kheturi proper, the entire village wassubmerged in
an ocean of happiness. With great care Acarya Thakura escorted thedevotees to
separate houses and appointed Ramacandra Kaviraja to the service ofRaghunatha
Acarya and his associates. He appointed Syamananda to the serviceof Sri Hrdaya
Caitanya. Sri Nrsimha Kaviraja was appointed to serve SriCaitanyadasa and some
others, and Sri Vyasa Acarya took care of Sripati, Srinidhi Panditaand their
associates. He asked Sri Vallabhi Kanta to serve Krsnadasa andother devotees
from Akaihata, and Sri Govinda Kaviraja took charge of serving SriRaghunandana
and his companions. Ramakrsna, Kumuda and their associates wererequested to
look after Vaninatha, Jita Misra and others. Kaviraja Bhagavan wasput in the
service of Sri Yadunandana Cakravarti, and Sri Gopiramana andothers were
appointed to the service of the other Vaisnavas. Srinivasa arrangedseparate
stocks of food for separate houses, and Sri Acarya Thakura andThakura Mahasaya
oversaw everything to assure that all was executed properly.
Simply hearing about the arrival of all these great mahantas inKheturi can
fulfill all the desires of the listeners.
So hear attentively as I, Narahari, narrate this NarottamaVilasa.
THE SEVENTH VILASA
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda Prabhu, AdvaitaAcarya and
all the associates of the Lord. Please bestow your mercy upon thisfallen soul.
All glories to the merciful listeners. Kindly listen attentively tothis
narration.
As news of the Kheturi festival spread throughout the country,everywhere people
were heard speaking about it: "Oh brother, Sri Khetari has becomebeautified by
the association of the devotees. It is now the most fortunatevillage on the
earth and is the abode of eternal joy." Everyone in Sri Kheturi;men, women,
aged and even the children could not check their tears upon seeingthe assembly
of devotees. Someone said, "Many more Vaisnavas have arrived today,they look
as effulgent as the brilliant sun. " Another person commented, "Bythe power of
these Vaisnavas even the atheistic offenders feel compelled toutter the name of
Krsna." Someone else remarked, "Sri Santosa is certainly the mostfortunate
King, just see how carefully he has arranged accommodations for allthe
devotees." Others said, "The King is very attentive to thewell-being of all
mankind." Someone else commented, "The flower-men have been told tosupply
beautiful garlands, while others were requested to preparesandalwood paste.
The instrumentalists have been ordered to begin playing on theSukla Pancami day
of Phalguna." Everywhere bustling preparations for the festivalwere under way,
as people chattered excitedly in anticipation: "The king hasinvited all the
neighbouring kings to the abhiseka ceremony. Tomorrow is theauspicious full
moon day, exactly the appropriate time for the Deities to beinstalled in the
temple." Other's said, "Thakura Mahasaya has transformed this land.Previously
the area was overrun with wicked thieves and rogues who knewnothing about
religion. Neither could they understand what the results of theirinauspicious
behaviour would be. These ignorant people were accustomed tosevering the heads
of goats, lambs and buffalos. Some of them were even so degradedthat they would
dance with the heads of men fixed on the top of their swords. Suchpersons were
accustomed to indulge in intoxication and illicit sex. Yet, by theinfluence of
Narottama, even such atrocious persons have become exempt from theresults of
their sinful activities." In this way, the glories of Narottamawere sung
continually throughout the town. People came from far and widecarrying all
varieties of commodities for the imminent festival. Everyone whoentered into
Kheturi was immediately freed from all distress. The association ofSri Thakura
Mahasaya soothed the hearts of all.
In the evening one devotee told Acarya that many kholas andkartalas had been
made and stocked in a suitable place, and requested that he come toinspect
them. Sri Acarya, along with Gauranga, Gokula and Devidasa happilywent to
inspect the instruments. They first worshipped the instrumentswhile chanting
the names of Gaura Nityananda. Thereafter they went to see SriIswari and
informed her about the abhiseka ceremony.
In the morning, when all the mahantas had finished their morningduties, Sri
Acarya and Thakura Mahasaya came to them and offered them beautifulnew clothes.
Meanwhile, King Sri Santosa Raya noted with pleasure that all thearrangements
for the opening ceremony were complete. The gorgeous canopy whichhad been hung
in the courtyard increased the charm of the festival arena. Manyseats were
arranged for the mahantas under the canopy, and the wide courtyardof the temple
was tastefully decorated with innumerable banana trees, coconuts,flowers,
mango twigs, and pitchers filled with water. Seeing that thearrangements were
complete, Sri Acarya personally informed Her Holiness Jahnava mata,and she came
and sat in her private seat. At the request of Srinivasa, all themahantas took
their seats. The atmosphere in the courtyard was most pleasing, asthe mahantas
chatted mildly amongst themselves. Sri Acarya then requested theirpermission to
begin the auspicious abhiseka ceremony.
Having received the blessings of all, Srinivasa performed thebathing ceremony
and other rites swiftly, in accordance with the instructions givenby Srila
Rupa Gosvami. After completing the bathing, Srinivasa revealed thenames of the
Deities as had been prophesied in his dream. He then placed theDeities on the
throne in the following order: Sri Gauranga, Vallabhi Kanta, SriBraj Mohan,
Sri Krsna, Sri Radha Kanta, and Sri Radha Ramana. He worshipped theLords,
performed arati and offered their Lordships sumptuous food. Thebhoga was
removed after some time and the place was thoroughly cleansed.Srinivasa then
placed a garland around the neck of each Deity. He then gave theoffered
garlands and sandalwood paste to the mahantas, who happily wore thegarlands
and smeared their bodies with the paste while gleefully shoutingout the glories
of the Lord.
Meanwhile the musical instruments played melodiously and itappeared that the
evils of the world were minimized simply by that sound. Permissionwas then
given to Sri Thakura Mahasaya to begin sankirtana. His heart fullof joyful
anticipation, Sri Thakura told Devidasa to get ready. Devidasa,Vallabha,
Gokula and Gauranga quickly gathered their instruments and enteredthe
courtyard. Standing in front of Devidasa, Narottama's appearancecharmed the
hearts of all. The tilak on his forehead and the tulsi beads aroundhis neck
appeared to glitter brilliantly. Narottama called out to Gaura,Nitai, Advaita
and others, then bowed to all the mahantas. Smiling brightly, hebegan sankirtan
in a soft voice, accompanied by the kartals. His body was drenchedin sweat
mixed with tears of joy. The sound of drums joined in, minglingwith the voices
of the singers, creating celestial music. Unable to controlhimself,
Raghunandana began to chant the glories of the Lord at the top ofhis voice,
roaring like an enraged lion. At that moment, Sri Acarya gaveRaghunandana
garlands and sandalwood paste which he at once touched to the drumsand cymbals.
Totally immersed in the ecstasy of transcendental love,Raghunandana smeared
the body of Narottama with the sandalwood paste, garlanded him withflowers and
embraced him warmly. He also extended the same treatment to theother devotees
present. They all bowed at the feet of Raghunandana and started tosing the
preamble, beginning at a low pitch and gradually increasing untilfinally
the atmosphere became so surcharged that everyone marvelled at theoccasion.
Charmed by the marvellous voice of Narottama, the mahantascommented that
Narottama was certainly directly empowered by the Lord to act asthe custodian
of transcendental music. Thinking in this way, they all embracedNarottama and
began to dance with him jubilantly. The sandalwood paste on theirbodies and
the flowing garlands added extra luster to the occasion. At thispoint, Gauranga
and His associates could no longer remain unmoved and thuspersonally appeared
at the scene. The atmosphere was suddenly surcharged with emotionand the
devotees entered into a state of trance as they beheld theappearance of
Sri Caitanya, Lord Nityananda, Advaita, Srinivasa, Gadadhara,Murari, Svarupa,
Haridasa, Vakresvara, Jagadisa, Gauridasa. The son of Saci began todance
ecstatically with Sri Acyutananda and the others. Similarly, SriNityananda
danced with Narottama, Sri Advaita danced with Ramacandra andothers, while
Pandita Gadadhara danced with Srinivasa Acarya. The whole assemblythus became
caught up in the mood of great ecstasy and innumerable associatesof the Lord
including Srivas Pandit, Murari Gupta, Svarupa, Haridasa,Suklambara Brahmacari,
Vasudeva Datta, Vakresvara Pandit, Gadadhara Dasa, Mukunda,Narahari, Gauri Dasa
Pandita, Nakula Brahmacari, Jagadisa, Sujadasa, Acarya Nandana,Srinatha,
Mahesha, Jodu, Madhusudana, Govinda, Madhava Basurai, Ramananda,Vijaya,
Dhananjaya Datta, Sanatana, Rupa, Raghunatha, Kasisvara also beganto dance.
It seemed that the visible and invisible had convened at that placeas everyone
sang and clapped their hands along with the throbbing beating ofthe drums.
Glancing in every direction the Lord showered His love on allpresent and in
reciprocation the devotes chanted the names of Sri Krsna Caitanya.The promises
which the Lord had made to Narottama in his dream were now realizedto the
amazement of the devotees. Who can understand the inconceivablepotency of the
Lord?
Suddenly the Lord and His associates disappeared from the scene,and immediately
everyone's trance was broken. The devotees lamented piteously,feeling intense
separation from Gaura, Nityananda, Advaita, Srivasa, Gadadhara,Murari,
Haridasa, Vakresvara Pandita, Narahari, Gauradasa and the others.Sri
Acyutananda and others began to ask themselves if indeed it hadactually taken
place or whether they had simply been dreaming. Narottama,Srinivasa,
Ramacandra, Syamananda and others fell to the ground. Griefstricken, they
cried out to the Lord. Even the non-believers who attended thefestival simply
out of curiosity or seeking some entertainment or fun, left thearea as changed
men. The brahmana Baninath was first to regain consciousness.Seeing the
devotees lying in various stages of collapse, he and othersimmediately began
to nurse the devotees and gradually they returned to externalconsciousness.
Her Holiness Jahnavi Devi told Narottama and Srinivasa that shefully
appreciated their ? and advised them to hold it. She then told themthat
according to the scriptures it was time to play fagu, with colouredpowder.
Srinivasa and Narottama then went to meet all the other mahantaswho praised
the two acknowledging them as eternal associates of the Lord. SriNityananda
expressed His satisfaction by stating that neither He, nor anyoneelse present,
would ever forget the wonderful experience which the festivalafforded them.
Srinivasa and Narottama then invited the mahantas to participate inthe fagu
play and this idea was greeted with everyone's full approval. SriSantosh Rai
brought pots filled with different kinds of scented fagu.Narottama, with the
help of Ramacandra, gave the first pot of fagu to Her Holiness.Together they
entered the temple and placed it on the body of the Lord. Then SriAcyutananda,
Raghunandana, Srinidhi, Kasinatha, Hrdaya Caitanya, Jodu and othersput fagu on
the body of Sri Gauranga, Radha Kanta, Sri Vallabha Kanta, Sri BrajMohan, Sri
Radha Raman. While playing some of the devotees recited poetry,while others
chanted the glories of the Lord's Vrndavana and Navadvipa pastimes.In this way
everyone was totally absorbed in chanting, dancing, reciting theLord's glories
and engaging in the fagu festival. Thousands of people joined inand the fagu
thrown about was sufficient to cover the sky. This continued untilevening when
everyone attended the arati of the Lord and chanted His glories.After some
time they all assembled in the courtyard where Sri Acarya carefullyperformed
the necessary rituals observing the birthday of the Lord. To markthe occasion
the Vaisnavas conducted all night kirtanas to the accompaniment ofvarious
percussion instruments.
In the morning everyone performed their morning ablutions. HerHoliness bathed
with tepid water and said her daily prayers. Then along withSrinivas she went
along to the kitchen to make sure it was stocked with all thenecessary
requirements. Smiling, she said to Srinivasa, "I wanted you to knowthe
ingredients needed for the cooking and now I see that everything isready. How
did you know that I intended to cook everything with my own hands?"Saying this
she sat down on a stool and began to prepare everything verycarefully. Very
quickly she prepared rice as well as various vegetable preparationsand placed
them with great care in trays and pots. She then presented thesefoodstuffs as
an offering to the Lord.
Absorbed in ecstatic devotion, she watched lovingly as the Deitiesof Gauranga,
Vallabha Kanta, Radha Mohana, Radha Kanta, Radha Krsna and BrajMohana all
partook of her mouthwatering preparations with great relish. Afterthis, as was
the custom, she then came out and closed the door. After waitingfor some time
she again entered the sanctum of the temple, removed thepreparations, offered
water for washing the mouths of the Lords and then offered thebetel nuts.
After this offering Srinivasa distributed the offered foodstuffsamong the
mahantas, who ate it all with great satisfaction. Next they allwent to the
Rajbhoga arati of the Lord, after which the performing priestpresented them
all with garlands of Tulsi leaves. The priest then placed theDeities to rest
on soft beds and covered Their bodies with beautiful soft cloth andbegan to
fan them with a yak tail fan. After doing so for some time he thencame out,
closed the door and offered his obeisances on the ground whilereciting prayers.
Thereafter Srinivasa invited everyone to take prasada in thecourtyard of the
temple and then he cleaned the dust from the area and all themahants sat in
a circle. One devotee provided the banana leaf plates, while otherdevotees
came around with salt, clarified butter, curd and milk. HerHoliness was very
pleased to see such an assembly of devotees and ordered that theprasada be
served promptly. The preparations included fried leafy vegetables,rice, soup,
sour soup and condensed milk, and everyone was served to theirfull
satisfaction. The aroma and the taste of the food was sotantalising that
everyone ate much more than they needed and Sri Acyutanandaremarked, "I cannot
understand how I ate so much." Sripati, Srinidhi and Baninathreplied that it
was all by the grace of Her Holiness that this was possible. SriRaghunandana
and others remarked that they would never again receive the samepleasure from
eating as they had received on this auspicious occasion.
Srinivasa and Narottama then went to Her Holiness and requested,"You have
worked very hard, now it is our desire that you sit down and takeprasada."
She replied, "My great desire is that I want to feed you all firstand then
I shall eat. For my sake please go and sit in the courtyard alongwith the
others." Sri Acarya and others then went and sat in the courtyardand they were
served the feast in the same way as was before mentioned. Wit greataffection,
Her Holiness personally served prasada thus making everyone eat totheir heart's
content. As the devotees happily ate they talked amongst themselveshappily:
"This is heavenly cooking, has anyone ever eaten such a fried leafyvegetable in
all their life?" In this way they praised her culinary expertiseand when they
finished Raghunandana and a few others went to retire. Srinivasathen ate in
the company of Narottama, Ramacandra, Govinda dasa, Rama Krsna,Mukunda,
Gokulananda, Vyasa, Syamananda, Sri Krsna Vallabha, Devidasa,Bhagavan, Nrsimha,
Gokula, Karnapura, Kishore, Rasikananda, Gauranga Thakura, Gopiramuand others.
After finishing, they all washed their hands and took betel nuts.Sri Acarya
then made a seat for Her Holiness and she happily took a smallquantity of each
of the items that had been prepared. Then with the help ofSyamananda, Sri
Acarya fed many other men and finally Balarama the priest and a fewothers were
the last to partake.
After eating, Her Holiness bathed in tepid water in a private placeand her
personal attendant, a brahmana lady, wiped her body gently with afine cloth.
Jahnava mata had a slim figure and a golden complexion and wasovercome by
intense feelings of separation from her beloved Lord. Another ladybrought Her
Holiness a set of clean clothes. After changing and washing hermouth, Her
Holiness took some betel nut while sitting on a sheet on theground. As tears
of gratitude rolled down her cheeks, she affectionately toldNarottama, "Today
I have made my eating complete." Srinivasa and Syamananda also camebefore
Jahnava mata and she said in a sweet voice, "We don't think weshould stay here
any longer. I consider it best to start for Vrndavana tomorrowmorning. To this
Sri Acarya replied, "Though it pains us to hear this, I havenothing to reply.
I know that there is nothing I can say to change your decision. Thefestival
has now come to close so how can I object to the journey." HerHoliness simply
smiled in reply to this remark. Then, on Srinivasa's request, shelay down on
the sheet to rest for awhile.
Srinivasa, Narottama and Syamananda went to another place wherethey also took
some rest. Thereafter they proceeded to the residence of SriAcyutananda where
all the mahantas were assembled and discussing topics of SriKrsna's life.
Pleased to see their three hosts, the mahantas requested SriAcarya, "We are
sorry but we must now beg your permission to go. We would like todepart." The
Acarya replied, "What you have decided cannot be changed. If earlytomorrow
morning you arise and prepare your own food that will be convenientfor us."
The mahants were amused by his suggestion and agreed to it and thenreturned to
their respective lodgings.
Sri Acarya, along with Narottama and Syamananda went to the abodeof the Lord
along with Sri Santosh Rai and others and Sri Acarya told themeverything.
He who derives pleasure from hearing these pastimes will no doubthave all his
desires fulfilled.
Please listen attentively to Narottama Vilasa as told byNarahari.
THE EIGHTH VILASA
Glory to Gaura, Nityananda, Advaita and others. Be kind to thispoor soul.
Glory to the merciful listeners.
At the time of evening ceremony of waving light before SriGauracandra all the
mahantas came to the temple. They became very happy to observe theceremony.
The priest gave them offered garlands and Tulsi. Then they begansankirtana.
After that they went to their own rooms. Many items of food wereoffered to
Prabhu. After Prabhu's eating, Sri Acarya took prasadam for Iswariand then
distributed that separately and served to every room. All of thembecame very
happy to eat the tasteful prasadam. Sri Acarya told everybody tobless Santosa
Raya who had arranged everything by giving the full financial help.They also
blessed him. Being happy Acarya Mahasaya with his companions cameto the temple
of Prabhu. Sri Acarya, Thakura Mahasaya and Syamananda ate someprasadam. Again
Sri Acarya cautioned those whom he had engaged in the service ofthe mahantas.
As it was late at night, they all entered into their rooms and wentto sleep.
In the morning, they completed their morning duties. Now the cooksof the
mahantas took their baths first, did their `Anhika' and going roundthe Tulsi.
Then they entered into the separate kitchens. Ramacandra Kavirajawith others
supplied the necesary commodities to the cooks in each kitchen.Then the cooks
began to cook varieties of items very gladly. At the time ofcooking, Ramacandra
and others used to be standing cautiously beside the kitchens ifany cook needed
any help.
Sri Santosa Raya was engaged in arranging separate containersdecorated with
betel leaves, gold and silver coins, beautiful silk dreses what hewould offer
to the mahantas. Sri Santosa Raya went to Sri Iswari and asked forher
permission. Then he went to all the mahantas and offered them thosethings one
by one. They all wore the silk cloths and sat for doing Anhika.Santosa Raya
gave beautiful cloth and coins to each and everyone who came withthe mahantas.
At the time Acarya came to that place and became very glad to seethe charity
of Santosa Raya. In the meantime the priest informed that he hadarranged
prasadam separately. Sri Acarya requested them to take seats andbegan to serve
food to them. The mahantas sat in rows and became very happy to eatprasadam.
In the courtyard of Sri Jahnava Iswari's house, some Vaisnavas tooktheir seats
for taking meals. They were Krsnadasa Sarakhela, Madhava Acarya,Raghupati
Upadhyaya, Krsna Bhaktavarya, Sri Minaketana, Ramadasa, Mahidhara,Murari,
Caitanya, Jnanadasa, Manohara, Kamalakara Pippalai, NrsimhaCaitanya, Sri Jiva
Pandita, Sri Gaurangadasa, Vrndavana, Sri Sankara, Kanai, Nakari,Krsnadasa,
Paramesvaradasa, Balarama, Damodara and Mukunda. I am giving thenames of these
who sat with Sri Acyutananda for eating. They were Sri Gopala,younger brother
of Acyutananda, Sri Kanu Pandita, Visnudasa, Narayana, Banamalidasa, Sri
Ananta, Janardana, Sri Mahava, Lokanatha Bhagavatacarya.Raghunathacarya with
his companions, Sri Caitanyadasa, son of Sri Vansivadana, with hiscompanions,
Sri Hrdaya Caitanya with his companions. All were enjoying theprasadam by
sitting in their own rooms. What a beautiful scene there, all wereenjoying
prasadam delightfully. In another room were eating Sripati,Srinidhi, Krsnadasa,
Sri Sanjaya, Kasinatha, Mukunda, Paramananda, Sekhar Pandita,Krsnadasa Vaisya,
Subhananda, Sri Gopala Acarya, Kavicandra Kirtaniya andSasthivara.
Krsnadasa of Akaihata with his companions were eating in theirplace most
gladly. Vaninatha, Sivananda, Vallabha Caitanya, Nartaka Gopala,Bhagavatacarya
Jita Misra, Raghu, Sri Uddhava, Kasinatha, Sri Narayana Misra andSri Mangala
sat in one place and were eating all along very happily.
Sri Raghunandana, Sulocana and others were eating in their room.Sri Yadunandana
Cakravarty and his companions were taking prasadam by siting intheir own
place. Sri Acarya and Sri Thakura Mahasaya were inspecting theireating very
carefully. When all the mahantas finished their eating, they wereoffered water
for washing their mouths. After that they took prasadam. At lastthe priest fed
all the Vaisnava guests there. Even the untouchable persons alsogot the
highest respect there. At long last, Acarya and Thakura Mahasayatook their
prasadam.
Who has witnessed such a big festival in his life? People used tosay that they
had never seen such a great festival. Some persons said that how itwas possible
for a human being to perform such a festival which was even totallyimpossible
for the gods. Some persons said that those who had performed thisfestival, they
were no human beings because all the devotees of Sri Caitanya wereeven
worshipped by the gods. Some persons said that they had even movedthe heretics
by the topics on Krsna. Above all, the heretics had eaten the leftover food of
the Vaisnavas and prayed to them to rescue them from damnation.Some persons
said that Narottama would rescue all the heretics from damnationand there would
be not a single heretic in this country. In this way, the peoplebegan to
glorify Narottama.
Now listen, Sri Acarya after taking some rest, told ThakuraMahasaya privately,
"They will take their leave in the morning. They will take theirbaths after
crossing Padmavati. We should pack some food for them, so that theycan eat
after bath." Hearing this, Thakura Mahasaya did not lose time. Hequickly
ordered to prepare food. After food had been ready, he first of alloffered
them to Prabhu and then packed them separately. He reported Acaryathat
everything was ready but all these preparations could be done bythe evening.
Here all the mahantas being eager to observe the waving lightceremony came out
of their rooms and gathered in the courtyard of Prabhu. The priestoffered them
garlands, and Tulsi. After the ceremony, the mahantas startedsankirtana.
Within a while, the river of nectar began to flow there and all themahantas
began to swim in the ocean of love. They could not controlthemselves and fell
on the ground out of ecstasy. Their beautiful bodies became smearedwith dust.
After a long time, they observed the Sayana Arati of Prabhu. Againthe priest
gave garlands and Tulsi to them. Then the mahantas returned totheir own
places. Acarya with Narotama supplied prasadam separately to eachroom.
He told the mahantas, "Tomorrow Khetari will sink into utterdarkness. I am
giving some prasadam with you so that you can eat after crossingPadmavati. At
noon, you can reach Budhari. Govinda with some men and the cooksshould enter
first to the village. Ramacandra and others will go with them up toBudhari.
Then they will be back here for accompanying Sri Iswari toVrndavana. Now
please accept these prasadam and eat all of your Srinivasa fed allof them with
a broken heart. Even the mahantas became so emotional that they allkept mum.
Then Acarya reported everything to Sri Iswari. Observing thedisturbed condition
of Srinivasa, Sri Iswari consoled him and most affectionately gavehim her left
over food. In a delighted mind, Acarya asked Santosa to make theboats ready for
the mahantas. Santosa said that he had already done that. Hearingthis Acarya
became very glad and went his room to take some rest.
In the morning all of them did their morning duties and observedthe morning
ceremony of waving lights. Sri Govinda Kaviraja with somecompanions and cooks
started first. They crossed Padmavati and at noon reached Budhari.Here the
mahantas in the morning went to take leave of Sri Iswari. SriAcyutananda told
her in crying, "Most probably, I may not see you again." Sri Gopalaand others
told something which could break the heart. Sripati, Srinidhi andothers,
Vaninatha and others, Raghunatha Acarya and others, all of thembecame perturbed
and grief-stricken at the time of taking leave.
Sri Hrdaya Caitanya said, "Please, let me see your feet again." SriCanda
Haldara, Mitu Haldara, Sri Caitanya and others could not speakanything. Sri
Raghunandana told her, "Please, be kind to us to see you soon." SriYadunandana
said, "Please come back. Pippalai and others go back to Khardaha."After bidding
farewell to them, she became extremely sad. Other mahantas gatheredin the
courtyard of Prabhu and became ecstatic in emotion. They laidprostrate on the
ground and their bodies became smeared with dust. They all askedfor the
well-being of Acarya and others from Prabhu and prayed to him tofavor them to
listen to this sankirtana life after life. The priest gave them theclothes used
by Prabhu. By holding the clothes on their hands, they started withbroken
hearts.
Sri Hrdaya Caitanya by holding Acarya in his lap, told mildly,"Visit Amvika
time to time and let me see you. Syamananda is yours." Acarya said,"Syamananda
is my life. I do not think of him anything other than this. ToNarottama and
Ramacandra, Syamananda and his companions are most preciousthings." Hrdaya
Caitanya most affectionately dedicated Syamananda to Srinivasa.
When they left Khetari village, an outcry of despair arose in thatvillage. The
people of that village became mad in sorrow. On the bank ofPadmavati, Acarya
consoled everybody. After embracing everyone, the mahantas withRamacandra and
others boarded on the boats which started at once. Acarya andothers rolled on
the ground with loud crying. Observing them, the mahantas could notresist
their tears. By the wish of Prabhu, they somehow crossed Padmavati.They took
their baths and ate prasadam and then started for Budharivillage.
Acarya and others returned to Khetari. Srinivasa with Sri ThakuraMahasaya and
Syamananda went to the temple of Prabhu. The priest told AcaryaThakura, "Just
now, Sri Iswari took her bath. After the leaving of the mahantas,she had been
sitting alone in a pool of tears. Sri Madhava Acarya and othersalso took their
baths just now."
Hearing this, Sri Acarya again became restless and hastily went tosee Sri
Iswari. Sri Iswari eagerly asked Srinivasa about the going of themahantas and
he reported everything in brief. On hearing the report, Sri Iswarilooked at
the face of Srinivasa whom she found very thin not only for themisery of
separation but also for his fasting since last night. She thought,"Today they
are not at all thinking of their eating. I m afraid of theirhealth. If I do
not take the initiative of feeding them they won't get anything toeat."
Thinking so, she told Acarya sweetly, "You had already taken yourbath and it
is now afternoon. But you are still in fasting. It is paining me.So be quiet
and take food in my house." Hearing this, Acarya became so obligedthat he
called Narottama and others to that place. Sri Iswariaffectionately ordered
Nrsimha Caitanya and other to call everyone and sit in a row on theground.
Someone arranged the banana leaves and someone filled the glasseswith water.
Then Sri Iswari served various kinds of food to them. Being orderedby Sri
Iswari they all ate happily. Sri Iswari out of affection again andagain served
a profuse quantity of food to them. They all ate voraciously. Aftertheir
eating, the servants cleaned the place.
Sri Acarya and others happily went to gather in the courtyard ofPrabhu.
Someone gave them offered betel leaves. When they returned to theirown rooms,
they found many presons were waiting for mahaprasadam. So they werealso served
prasadam. In this way a huge number of Vaisnavas were fed. SriIswari's loving
service cooled their miseries of separation. So a day endedhappily. Sri Iswari
went to the temple and became ecstatic in observing the beauty ofPrabhu. The
priest gave her the offered garland.
In the evening during the ceremony of waving light, millions ofpeople gathered
in the courtyard. Next started the sankirtan whose divine soundcovered the
world. Aged, young, respectable became mad in sankirtana. Even thegods
amalgamated themselves with the people to join in that sankirtana.Some persons
began to roll on the ground while some began to roar like lions.Who will
describe the happiness of Sri Nama sankirtana? In this way theyspent the whole
night unconsciously. Due to the wish of Prabhu, they stopped atlast. Sri
Jahnava Iswari happily returned to her house. In the morning, afterfinishing
her daily duties, she took bath in hot water. After doing worship,she began
cooking preparations. Here Sri Acarya and others after taking theirbaths and
observing the rajbhoga arati of Prabhu came to see Sri Iswari. Inthe meantime,
Sri Iswari offered food to Prabhu and after his eating she tookaway the bowls
from the temple. Then she sat among Sri Acarya and others. Sheasked Acarya
anxiously about Ramacandra and others. At the same time, theyreturned from
Vudhuri.
They reported, "Everything could be completed perfectly and themahantas could
eat at Vudhuri very timely. The mahantas did sankirtana after theireating. At
late night they slept a little and in the early morning, everyonebecame very
much perturbed to bid farewell to us. Most probabaly, we allbecame
stone-hearted at that time of separation so that we became able tocross
Padmavati to come here very easily." Saying so, they became silent.Sri Iswari
consoled them and fed them. Sri Acarya ate the left over food ofSri Iswari and
then fed the rest of the Vaisnavas who had been waiting forprasadam. Everyone
showed their respect to Sri Acarya who consoled Santosa and othersby saying,
"Due to the wish of Sri Iswari, everything is over verysuccesfully. Now she is
eager to go to Vrndavana and I should not stop her from going. Whenshe will be
back from Vrndavana, you can see her feet again. Now don't show heryour
restlessness of minds. Tomorrow morning, she will start." Hearingthis, Sri
Santosa Raya slowly went to Iswari and stood there very humbly.Knowing his
mind, Sri Iswari consoled him and Santosa requested her to comeback soon to
them. Sri Iswari assured him. Then Sri Santosa Raya most gladlybrought all the
things what he would give to Sri Iswari for carrying to Vraja. Hegave fine
silky clothes, ornaments, jewelleries for Sri Govinda, Gopinatha,Madanamohana,
Sri Radhavinoda, Sri Radha-ramana and Radha Damodara. Apart fromthese, he also
gave gold and silver coins to Sri Iswari. Sri Jahnava became veryhappy to see
that every arrangement had become complete very perfectly.
At the time of waving the light ceremony of the evening, Sri Iswaritold
something silently to Prabhu and the garland of Prabhu fell on theground. The
priest gave that to Sri Iswari who held that on her head. After SriNama
sankirtana, Sri Iswari sleep. In the morning, she first went totake her leave
of Prabhu. The priest gave her offered garlands.
Now I shall give the names of companions who went with Sri Iswari.They were
Sri Pandita Krsnadasa, son of Suryadasa, Madhava Acarya, Murari,Caitanya,
Krsnadasa brahmana, Nrsimha Caitanya, Balarama, Mohindhara, Kanai,Nakaridasa,
Gauranga, Sankara, Sri Paramesvara dasa, Dasa Damodara, RaghupatiVaidya,
Upadhyaya Manohara, Jnanadasa, Mukundadasa and others. FromKhetari, Sri Iswari
took Sri Govinda, Sri Gopiramana, Bhagavana, Gokula, Nrsimha,Vasudeva and
others. The people of Khetari lost their patience and began tocry.
Sri Narottama, Acarya and other began to follow them for somedistance in
crying. The feature of love, Sri Jahnava Iswari, pacified them invarious ways
and forbade them to follow her anymore. So she got up in apalanquin and
started her journey. Sri Acarya, Narottama and Syamananda could notcheck their
tears at the time of their going. In a broken heart, they returnedto Khetari.
The people of Khetari in a dying condition began to sing the gloryof Sri
Jahnava.
Someone told to another, "She will be back very soon fromVrndavana." Some
said, "She will go to her village in another way. What is the useof coming
here?" Someone said, "This Acarya Mahasaya has won over Sri Iswariby his love
and devotion." All these discussions made them very happy.
Here Sri Acarya, Sri Thakura Mahasaya and Syamananda returned tothe temple.
Due to the wish of Sri Iswari, they pacified themselves andcompleted their
baths and worship and then went to observe the waving lightceremony of Prabhu.
They visited all the Vaisnava houses, met them and talked withthem. Then they
fed others the prasadam and took their seats in the courtyard ofPrabhu. The
cook of Prabhu began to serve food to them. After eating theywashed their
mouths and took betel leaves. Acarya along with others becameengaged in talking
about Krsna.
In the morning Acarya came to the temple courtyard and told theVaisnavas who
were about to take their leave, "It is your place. Please come herefrom time
to time. Now it is evening and too late to start today. Tomorowmorning you
should start for your own villages. Now please accept the thingswhich Santosa
Raya had cherished in his mind to give." All of them became glad tohear the
nectar-like words of Acarya. Thus Sri Santosa Raya, according totheir
permission, offered fine clothes and coins to them. In the evening,all of them
observed the waving light and then went to their rooms to sleep.Srinivasa with
his companions sat there for sometime in discussing the topic ofKrsna and then
went to bed. In the morning, Acarya and others gathered in thecourtyard of
Prabhu and observed the morning waving light. The Vaisnavas whowould like their
leave then, also gathered and observed the ceremony. The priestgave them
garlands of Prabhu.
Gradually all the Vaisnava guests took their leave of Khetari insinging the
glory of the great festival. The brahmanas, the singers, thedancers and the
instrumentalists also took their leaves in tears. On observing theprocession
of men from Khetari, the people of that place began to say, "Who isable to
count the heads"? Someone said, "Everything has been possible forNarottama."
In this way, they began to sing the glory of Narottama. HereNarottama and
Srinivasa took their baths and after doing their worship, ate somesweets.
We don't know on what topic Narottama and Srinivasa were engaged intalking
about but we see them wet with the tears from their eyes. Theyobserved the
beauty of Prabhu and rajbhoga arati of Prabhu. Then they ateprasadam and after
that took betel leaves. Then they took their seats.
Acarya very affectionately told Sri Thakura Mahasaya andSyamananda, "I shall
start tomorow morning with Syamananda and by crossing Padmavati, Ishall go to
Vudhuri village. From there I shall go to Yajigrama, I won't staythere long
and shall go to Vana-Visnupura. Again I shall be back toYajigrama.
And Syamananda will first visit Navadvipa and Amvika and thenshould go and
settle at Vahadurapura in Dharenda. He should preach devotion inall those
places and should send me a letter with all reports. I shall send aletter with
detailed reports of Yajigrama to him very soon. When Sri Iswariwill be back
here, do send me a letter as soon as possible. Sri Iswari will takethis course
and from here some persons should accompany her. Then all of uswill come to
Khetari again very soon."
Though this news of his going was a shock to Thakura Mahasaya, yethe pacified
himself and went to prepare arrangements for Acarya's going. Hesent a letter
quickly to Vudhuri and arranged the boats for crossing Padmavati.The things
which would go with Syamananda were handed over in charge ofRasikananda. The
things which would go with Sri Acarya were handed over in thecharge of
Karnapura Kaviraja. Sri Santosa arranged all these things andreported to Sri
Thakura Mahasaya. Hearing this, Acarya became very happy and alongwith others
went to inspect the store room of Prabhu. He found that the storeroom was full
of commodities and praised Santosa for this superb deed. They allspent the
evening in enjoying the waving light ceremony. The priest put onthe garlands
around their necks for which they began to look very beautiful.
Observing the beauty of Prabhu, Acarya again and again glanced atNarottama
knowing his intention, Sri Thakura Mahasaya started sankirtana. Theother
singers and instrumentalists began to arrange their instrumentssuch as khola
and kartalas. Devidasa, Gokula, Gauranga and others began to playkhola and
kartalas.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya began to sing a song written by Sri VasuGhosa: "Oh Sakhi,
look at the feature of Gaura. See, his beautiful face defeatingmilions of
moons, his hands defeating the elephants, his eyes defeating theKhanjana
birds. See, his beautiful forehead bedecked with tilaka, his longstretching
hands and flower garland around his neck, his conch like throat andbroad
chest, bedecked with sandal and ornaments. See, his thigh and kneedefeating
the banana tree and his saffron dress, his white nails defeatingmillions of
moons." Vasu Ghosa says, "Gora where have you been? Has theprovidence created
your beauty to charm the maids"?
How can I describe the sweet tune of the song? Mrdangaaccompaniment with the
song attracted everone's heart. On listening the sweet sound of themrdanga and
the melting voice of Narottama made Sri Acarya Thakura mad in love.He stood up
to dance in a beautiful posture which maddened the listeners. Hebegan to shine
in his beautiful golden complexion. How magnetic was his smile inhis moon-like
face. How attractive were his lips with kunda-like white teeth. Howbig were
his lotus eyes stretching up to his ears. How beautiful were hisbee-like
eyebrows and parrot beak-like nose. How long were his hands andbroad was his
chest. How deep was his navel and beautiful were his legs and feet.Viewers
became mesmerised to see his dancing. The whole of Khetari waspresent there.
Even many respected persons from distant places were present there.The whole
festival area was lighted up with lamps. Sometimes the people usedto sing
loudly the glory of all singing and dancing there.
Even the gods in their carriers appeared on the scene to enjoy thedancing of
Srinivasa. The gods began to say that it was not at all possiblefor human
being to dance like this. Only the servants of Sri Caitanya coulddo this. The
gods began to shower flowers on the head of Acarya. While dancing,Srinivasa
forgot his own entity and in emotion he began to embrace Devidasain a pool of
tears. Who can restrain himself from being moved to listen to thekhola recital
of Devidasa and kirtana recital of Sri Gokula? Sri Thakura Mahasayabegan to
shout, "Speak, speak" by embracing him. Syamananda, RamacandraKaviraja and
others became overwhelmed with emotion and began to weep. Thus theocean of
happiness overflowed there for the beautiful sankirtana. Due to thewish of
Prabhu, they stopped at late night. After completing kirtana, allof them began
to roll on the ground and smeared the dust of that place. Afterembracing each
and everyone, they returned to their own houses to take somerest.
In the morning, Sri Acarya dressed up and came to the courtyard ofPrabhu.
Syamananda with his companions also came to that place. Narottamawith
Ramacandra and Santosa and others in a broken heart came too. Eventhe people
of Khetari on hearing the leaving of Acarya, came running to theplace. The
courtyard of Prabhu became a crowded place. Syamananda bowed beforePrabhu. The
priest gave garland and clothes offering of Prabhu to Acarya whodistributed
those among others. Though inwardly Acarya was very much moved, yetoutwardly
he consoled everybody and started from Khetari. Sri ThakuraMahasaya became
down with misery. Ramacandra pacified him very lovingly. Onreaching the bank
of Padmavati, Acarya Thakura hastily boarded on the boat to concealhis emotion.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya told many things to Syamananda who began tofloat in
a stream of tears. Narottama by taking Syamananda in his lap beganto weep
helplessly. Ramacandra pacified them. Syamananda got on the boatwhich started
at once. They crossed the river and reached Vudhuri.
Here Thakura Mahasaya and others took their baths and returned tothe courtyard
of Prabhu. Sudenly the happy memories of Prabhu's dancing with hisassociates
made Narttama so happy that he began to sing the glory of thecourtyard. The
priest informed Sri Thakura Mahasaya that Prabhu's arati was overand now they
could eat prasadam. Sri Thakura Mahasaya with others ate happilyand distributed
prasadam among the villagers of Khetari.
On that day many heretics also ate prasadam. Now a change came totheir minds
and they began to talk to others in this way, "Oh brothers, howfruitless our
own lives are. Who will rescue us from the judgement of Yama? ThisThakura
Narottama can do this." Someone said, "I am scared of going nearhim." Someone
said, "Let us fall on his feet." In saying this, they in cryingfell on the
feet of Narottama.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya who is an ocean of mercy, very sweetly toldthem, "Don't
cry. You are very fortunate. Sri Krsna Caitanya will favor you andrescue you
from damnation."
On hearing these hopeful words, the poor souls cried out, "Oh mylord, we had
done all types of evil deeds. We are not afraid of doing thosedeeds. We had
gone elsewhere for dacoity and only had returned last night. Thosewho did not
go with us, rebuked us to a great extent. They were also dangerousdacoits but
now due to you, they have become Vaisnavas. Oh my lord, be mercifulto us."
These pathetic confessions melted the heart of Thakura Mahasaya whofavored
them all. He advised them, "Always do wise company and being veryhumble always
listen and sing kirtana. Always be careful about behaving withVaisnavas. Don't
do anything which may humiliate them. And always cite Harinama."Saying so he
embraced them all. All of them ran to fall on his feet and he puthis feet on
the heads of each and everyone. So devotion most automatically cameto reign
over them.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya became very anxious for not getting any newsfrom Acarya.
He decided to send Ramacandra to Acarya but in the meantime a mancame with the
letter of Acarya from Yajigrama. Being very glad, Thakura Mahasayasent a reply
to Acarya and began to sing the glory of Acarya.
All these episodes can purify your mind, so be kind to listen toNarottama
Vilasa by Narahari.
THE NINTH VILASA
Glory to Gaura, Nityananda, Advaita and others. Be favorable tothis poor soul.
Glory to the merciful listeners.
While going to Vrndavana from Khetari, Sri Jahnava Iswari had donesome
transcendental deeds. Many wicked heretics got favor and mercy fromher and
obtained the most valuable gem-like devotion. Those who came incontact with
her, got the favor of Sri Krsna Caitanya and became mad in singingthe glory of
Him. The road which Sri Iswari had taken for her travel, the localpeople used
to follow her in that way. The village which she used to choose forher halt,
the villagers there used to get extreme pleasure. In this way,favoring many
poor souls, she went to Madhupuri (Mathura) quickly via Prayaga.She with all
her followers took bath in Sri Visrama Ghata. She paid respect to abrahmana of
Mathura and stayed there for that night. In the morning, aftertaking bath,
again started her journey.
The news of her coming to Mathura, spread all over the country. TheGosvamis of
Vrndavana quickly came forward to receive her. Here Sri Iswaribecame charmed
to see the beauty of the forests of Vrndavana. She could notcontrol her tears.
So she got down from her palanquin and started walking on foot. SriParamesvara
dasa told slowly to Iswari, "Sri Gopala Bhatta, Sri Bhugarbha,Lokanatha, Sri
Jiva, Sri Krsna Pandita and others have come here to receive you."Saying so,
he showed her their coming towards her. Seeing them, Sri Jahnavabecame
overwhelmed with joy. The Gosvamis began to shed tears on seeingSri Iswari and
fell on her feet. They were introduced to Krsnadasa Sarkhela,Madhavacarya etc.
Sri Paramesvara dasa introduced Sri Govinda and others to them. SriGovinda
Kaviraja and others bowed to the feet of the Gosvamis. The Gosvamismost
cordially and affectionately embraced them. Sri Jiva Gosvami talkedalot with
Sri Iswari and very carefully helped her to get on the palanquin.He took all
of them very quickly to a lonely house. The people took to theirheels to meet
Sri Iswari. The priests of Sri Govinda, Gopinatha and Madanamohanacame also to
meet her. How can I describe the highest of pleasure which occurredin Vrndavana
after this meeting?
When Sri Iswari with her followers settled themselves in thathouse, many items
of food came to them. Sri Iswari first fed her men and then tooksomething
herself. Sri Gopala Bhatta and others most gladly returned to theirhouses. For
observing the rajabhoga arati of Sri Govinda Sri Jiva Gosvami tookall of them
to the temple. Sri Jahnava Iswari became charmed to see the beautyof Sri Radha
Govinda after entering into the temple. Sri Madhavacarya and othersalso became
overwhelmed to observe Sri Govinda. After arati, they tookmahaprasadam and
returned to their house for taking rest. Sri Jiva Gosvami returnedto his house.
In the afternoon, Sri Jahnava Iswari and others quickly took theirbaths. Then
they observed Madanamohana, Gopinatha, Sri Radhavinoda, SriRadharamana and Sri
Radha Damodara. She offered those clothes and ornaments to thedeities which she
had brought with her. Then they took prasadam.
She reported to Lokanatha about the great festival at Khetari andthe course of
her coming to Vrndavana. The Gosvamis became very glad to hearthose incidents.
The Gosvamis also narrated the happenings in Vrndavana. Sri Iswaribecame very
perturbed to listen to the narrations. After checking her emotion,she told all
of them to listen to the poetry composed by Govinda. Hiscompositions so charmed
the Gosvamis that they conferred the title of Kaviraja onGovinda.
After taking permission from them, Sri Iswari started forBahulavana and then
for Srikunda. Those who came from Srikunda, now accompanied SriIswari to that
place. After visiting Radhakunda and Syamakunda, they went to SriManasa Ganga
and Govardhana. Then they went to Vrsabhanupura and from there toNandisvara.
They also visited Sri Javata village where Balarama had done Hisrasalila sport.
Again they returned to Vrndavana.
Sri Iswari cooked food for the deities and offered them. Then shedistributed
that prasadam among the Gosvamis. In this way, Sri Jahnava stayed afew days
there. Sri Jiva Gosvami read out from his books for Sri Iswari. NowSri Iswari
with her followers visited the twelve forests of Vraja. Then shebegan to think
returning to Gauda. The Gosvamis permitted her to go. She took herleave of Sri
Govinda, Gopinatha, Madanamohana, Radha Damodara, Sri Radharamanaand Sri Radha
Vinoda. I am unable to describe her pathetic state of mind at thetime of
leaving. Madhava Acarya and others pacified her. That day theystayed there.
Gauridasa Pandita had a favorite disciple whose name was VaruGangadasa, a man
of fine qualities. Once he had come to Vrndavana but he could notlive in one
place for a long time and used to travel always here and there. SriIswari
favored him and ordered him to go with her to Gauda. Thus by herorder, he
prepared himself to go with her. Here Govinda and others went tothe houses of
the Gosvamis to take farewell. They bowed to the feet of Sri GopalaBhatta and
Lokanatha. The Gosvamis blessed them by putting their feet on theirheads and
conveyed their blessings to Srinivasa and Narottama. From therethey went to
the house of Bhugarbha Gosvami and then to the house of Sri JivaGosvami. There
they found Sri Krsnadasa Kaviraja and others. So getting all ofthem there, they
fell on their feet. The Gosvamis blessed them wholeheartedly.
So Jiva Gosvami affectionately told Govinda, "Report everything toAcarya and
send me a copy of your book Gitamrta. I shall finish this bookwhich I am
writting now very soon. I shall send it with a letter to youthere." Saying so,
he gave his book Gopala Virudavali to Govinda. Krsnadasa Kavirajahighly
recommended that book. In this way, they visited all the Gosvamihouses and
returned to their house for some rest.
Sri Iswari at late night went to bed and during her sleep SriGopinatha appeared
before her in her dream. He gave His own garland to Iswari and in asweet smile
told her, "What you have thought about my lady-love, send me fromGauda as soon
as possible. She will sit by my left side and this will remain onmy right side.
The beauty which will come out of that, you can see later on."Saying so He
entered into the temple.
She woke up and hid the garland in a private place. She went toobserve the
morning ceremony of waving light. Then she came back very gladly toher house.
On that morning, in an auspicious moment, she started from there.The Gosvamis
came to bid farewell and acompanied her for some distance. Thenbeing ordered
by Sri Iswari, they stopped following her but burst into tears. SriJahnava
Iswari also began to weep. Krsnadasa Pandita, Madhava Acarya,Murari, Caitanya
and others began to weep to. With them wept the people of Vraja.After a long
time, the people of Vraja stopped following them and returned totheir houses.
Sri Iswari with others came to Sri Mathura and decided to do anight halt there.
She very carefully fed the Mathura brahmana. From there she startedfor Gauda.
After a few days, she reached Khetari. Having got the news of hercoming,
Narottama out of joy, forgot his own entity. He sent a message toRamacandra who
with others at once came to Narottama's house. They moved forwardwith the
people of Khetari to receive Sri Iswari. Who can describe the floodof happiness
when all of them met one another?
Narottama and others fell on the ground to bow to her feet. Shebecame glad too
to see Narottama and others again. Then with a big crowd sheentered into
Khetari proper. Sri Iswari was given the same house of the time offestival.
Many Vaisnavas were engaged to serve her. Her companions were alsogiven the
same houses. Varu Gangadasa felt charmed to see the loneliness ofthe place.
Ramacandra Kaviraja very carefully carried many necessary things totheir houses
separately. Sri Thakura Mahasaya earnestly requested Sri Iswari totake her
bath. Thus she took hot bath and then ate some prasadam. Then shequickly cooked
for Prabhu and offered Him. When the mahantas finished their baths,Sri Santosa
offered them new clothes and some prasadam. Then the cooks preparedfood,
offered Sri Krsna and then served the prasadam to the mahantas.Then Sri Govinda
Kaviraja and others with the cooks sat for taking food. After that,all of them
took a little nap. Sri Iswari also took a litte nap and then got upquickly to
complete her bath.
Narottama, Ramacandra, Santosa and others gladly came to meet SriIswari. Sri
Iswari ordered them to take their seats. Narottama cherished thehope of telling
something to her and she at once realised that. For hissatisfaction, Sri Iswari
explained the incidents that had happened at Vrndavana. She alsovery subtly
explained the order of Sri Gopinatha. When she told them that shewould start
soon, Ramacandra with folded hands told her, "We hope that you willstay here
for sometime but your decision has made us very muchdisappointed."
Iswari said, "I cannot think anything at all you better suggest mewhat to do."
Sri Thakura Mahasaya said slowly, "It is good to start for Khardahawithin
a couple of days for your presence is necessary at the time ofbuilding the
image. It is not wise to waste time in relation to this type ofjob. It will
take some time to reach Khardaha. Tomorrow I shall send a man toKhardaha."
Saying so, in the presence of Sri Jahnava Iswari, he wrote a letterand handed
over to Santosa. He also wrote a letter to Sri Acarya anddespatched both the
letters without delay through two persons.
In the evening Sri Iswari went to the courtyard of Prabhu toobserve the waving
light ceremony. She remained there for a long time in listening tokirtana.
Then she returned to her house Madhava Acarya and others alsoreturned to their
places. Ramacandra and others remained in the courtyard of Prabhu.After the
offering of food to Prabhu, they distributed the food among themahantas. After
eating they relaxed on the beds and Sri Santosa and others remainedengaged in
massagingg their legs. Ramacandra with a little milk offering ofPrabhu, went
to Sri Iswari and requested her to drink that. The brahmana ladieswho were
with Sri Iswari, were given food also. While Sri Iswari went tosleep,
Ramacandra returned to the temple of Prabhu. He with Govinda andothers took
some prasadam. Thakura Mahasaya also ate something. In an opportunemoment,
Thakura Mahasaya instructed Govinda Kaviraja about some duties tobe done
towards the Gosvamis on their journey and handed over the bookGopala Virudavali
to Govinda. Govinda gave that to Ramacandra. Then all of them wentto sleep.
In the dream of Narottama, Sri Lokanatha Gosvami appeared.Narottama fell on
his feet and soaked his lotus feet with his tears. Lokanathaembraced Narottama
and consoled him with very sweet words. Then he disappeared. SriThakura
Mahasaya became very happy and spent the whole night in singing SriNama
kirtana.
In the morning all the mahantas took the pleasure of discussingabout Sri
Vrndavana with Narottama. They spent four days in this way duringwhich Sri
Iswari took the pleasure of cooking for them. Sri Thakura Mahasayaafter
discussing with Ramacandra, fixed up a date of Iswari's going. Hesent Sri
Govinda Kaviraja and some others to Vudhuri. Sri Santosa said,"Tomorow they
will start in the morning. So let us prepare the arrangements. Heinstructed
the priests, "Be careful in serving Prabhu and the Vaisnava's."Warning them in
this way, he reported everything to Sri Iswari. Sri Santosa Rayaprepared
everything and handed over the things for Sri Iswari to Paramesvaradasa. In
the morning they all took their leave of Prabhu. The priest gavethem Prabhu's
garlands and clothes. They all bowed to Prabhu by lying on theground. We do
not know what Sri Iswari had prayed to Prabhu silently. She heldthe garland
and clothes on her head.
Then she started with all from the courtyard. Sri Thakura Mahasayabade her
farewellby citing a hymn written by himself: "Gauranga VallabhiKanta Sri Krsna
Vrajamohana. Radharamana he Radhe Radhakanta Namahastute."Ramacandra with
those who would accompany her, became very perturbed at the time oftheir
leaving. The people of Khetari village became very perturbed also.They followed
her up to the bank of Padmavati. After consoling everybody SriIswari got up on
the boat. Sri Thakura Mahasaya ordered the boatman to cross thePadmavati
quickly. The people of Khetari in a perturbed mind returned totheir village.
After crossing the river, they quickly came to Vudhuri. The peopleof that
village came running to see the mahantas entering into theirvillage. The
mahantas became very satisfied with them and blessed them. SriIswari with all
went to stay in a lonely place. Sri Govinda Kaviraja ordered thecooks to start
cooking. Then they offered food to Krsna and kept aside theprasadam after
sometime. Sri Iswari completed her cooking very briefly and offeredthem with
milk to Krsna. Then she ate very gladly. After taking another bath,she came to
take her seat. The cooks distributed prasadam among the mahantas.Then Sri
Thakura Mahasaya with the rest of all ate very gladly.
On that day, Sri Iswari became very happy and negotiated themarriage of Varu
Gangadasa who was a very apathetic type of man and had no intentionto marry.
But due to the order of Sri Iswari, he had to marry. Syama Raya,which was
a beautiful image in looking, appeared in the dream of Sri Iswariand told her,
"Now hand me over to Varu Gangadasa." Being ordered in her dream,Sri Iswari
became very happy and did that what he had said. She arranged thefood offering
to Syama Raya and a great festival took place on the next day. Wedo not know
what she had instructed Varu Gangadasa but we can see that sincethat day, he
was engaged in the service of Syama Raya and began to settle atVudhuri.
Sri Iswari with all came to Kantakanagara. Sri Yadunandana andothers came
forward to receive them and brought them in the temple of Prabhu atthe time of
Prabhu's just going to bed. All of them became very happy to seeGauracandra
and then went to an arranged house. Sri Thakura Mahasaya and otheralso were
given beautiful but solitary houses. They went to take bath in theGanges.
Sri Yadunandana sent a message to Yajigrama and Sri Acarya Thakurawith his men
came quickly to that place. Then all of them ate prasadam. Theybecame very
glad to see Acarya. Srinivasa bowed to the feet of all the mahantaswho
affectionately embraced him. They asked Acarya about his wellbeing. The persons
who came with Srinivasa, bowed to the feet of the mahantas. Thecooks prepared
the food and offered Krsna. After that they kept aside the prasada.Sri Iswari
cooked quickly in brief and offered to Krsna. Then she atesomething and after
taking another bath, she requested the mahantas to eat. Themahantas along with
Srinivasa and others ate most gladly. Then Srinivasa went to SriIswari and they
remained engaged in talking to each other. Then Srinivasa went tothe house of
Narottama. Sri Govinda Kaviraja reported everything to Srinivasawhat the
Gosvamis had instructed him. Ramacandra Kaviraja gave the bookGopala Virudavali
to Acarya who held it on his head.
He with all the mahantas observed the ceremony of waving lightbefore Prabhu.
They they started sankirtana. Sri Jahnava became overwhelmed to seethe beauty
of Prabhu. After a long time, she returned to her house. SriGauranga also was
led to the bed to sleep. Srinivasa and the mahantas also went totheir places
to sleep.
At the end of the night Sri Gopala Bhatta appeared in the dream ofSrinivasa
who at once fell on his feet and washed the lotus feet of hisreligious master
by his tears. Sri Bhatta Gosvami embraced him and told Srinivasasweetly, "I am
always with you. You are my principal disciple in birth afterbirth." Saying so
he put his feet on the head of Srinivasa and then disappeared.Srinivasa in the
memory of Sri Gopala Bhatta, got up on his bed and sang the gloryof Sri Krsna
Caitanya.
In the morning he finished his morning duties and bathing in theGanges. He
visited the temple of Sri Gauranga and the place of Sri Bharati. Atthe time of
departing all of them became perturbed with misery. Srinivasaconsoled Sri
Yadunandana and others. Then with Sri Iswari Srinivasa came toYajigrama. Acarya
Thakura sent a message to Khanda which made the people of thatplace mad in joy.
Sri Raghunandana came to Yajigrama and observed the feet of SriJahnava. He
stayed at Yajigrama for a long time during which he became restlessin listening
to the incidents of Vraja. Again with Srinivasa, he went to meetSri Iswari and
told her mildly, "I have heard everything from Srinivasa. Thereshould be no
delay to go to Khardaha. Tomorrow, do come to Sri Khanda. I have togo now."
Saying so, after bowing to her feet, Sri Raghunandana returned toKhanda
happily. He collected all necessary things for her service andcleaned the house
for her. The people of Khanda began to wait eagerly for SriIswari.
There at Yajigrama, Sri Iswari with others quickly finished theireating. Acarya
read out from the devotional books for some time and they startedsankirtana.
In the morning, Sri Iswari with others went to Sri Khanda. Quicklythey moved to
the courtyard of Prabhu and became glad to observe the beauty ofPrabhu.
They became overwhelmed with emotion to see the places whereNityananda Prabhu
had danced, where He had drank honey in a trance of love, whereNitai had
observed the dance of Narahari. After enjoying the pleasure ofthose places,
they returned to their houses. On that day they quickly finishedtheir cooking
and after offering food to Prabhu, they finished their eatingquickly.
Knowing the mind of Sri Iswari, Sri Raghunandana started beautifulkirtana and
in the flood of sankirtana, everyone began to swim happily. Theybegan to roll
on the ground forgetting their own entities. Playing of musicalinstruments was
as beautiful as dancing. They began to sing the glory of singing,dancing and
playing of instruments in that way. In a trance of emotion, theyspent the whole
night in singing kirtana. Due to the wish of Prabhu they stopped atlast and
went to their houses to take rest.
In the morning they did their morning duties. Sri Iswari hastilyfinished her
bath, cooked for Prabhu and then fed all of them by her own hand.Who knows how
they had enjoyed the eating on that day? Sri Raghunandana becameoverwhelmed
with emotion observing the affection of Sri Iswari towards them.The people of
Sri Khanda were greatly moved by the high qualities of theassociates of Sri
Iswari. Sri Iswari again took her bath and sat among Srinivasa andothers. She
told him, "From here, we should move to Khetari. Tomorrow morning,we should
start for Khardaha. I shall send a messege from there soon." Sayingin this
way, she came to the courtyard of Prabhu and observed the eveningwaving light.
Then all of them started Sri Nama kirtana.
When all of them went to their houses Sri Raghunandana and his menmet Sri
Iswari and told her softly, "We heard that tomorow morning you willstart from
here. We don't dare to forbid you to go now. As you are independentone, we are
seared to request you that we will be obliged if you please visitour place
from time to time. There is no one so shameless creature like me.My worthless
life is still alive though it is always burning in the fire ofseparation."
Hearing these humble utterances of Sri Raghunandana, Sri Iswaricould not check
her tears. After a long time Sri Iswari and Raghunandana pacifiedthemselves.
Raghunandana distributed prasadam to everybody though they were notat all
hungry. He handed over the things what were for Sri Iswari to SriMadhava
Acarya. As it was already late for going to bed, they hastily wentto their
houses.
In the morning, apathetic scene occurred there when all of thembegan to say
goodbye to one another. Sri Iswari took the same course to go toKhardaha.
Here Sri Thakura Raghunandana at Sri Khanda used to be very glad toget the
company of Acarya and his associates. Sri Acarya stayed that day atSri Khanda.
In the morning he went back to Yajigrama. After spending 2-3 daysat Yajigrama,
Acarya went to Nadia with two persons. His Navadvipa tour had beendiscussed in
Bhakti-ratnakara.
From there, he came back to Yajigrama and spent that day insankirtana. On the
next day, he started in the morning and within 4-5 days came toVudhuri. He
ordered Sri Govinda Kaviraja and others to stay at Vudhuri and hehimself came
to Khetari on the next day. The people of Khetari came to meet him.He with
Thakura Mahasaya talked to them very sweetly. All of them came tothe courtyard
of Gauranga and observed Him. In the meantime, a letter fromKhardaha arrived.
Being relieved to know about the well-being of Khardaha, he sent areply with
the news of well being of Khetari to Khardaha. After going back totheir house,
Acarya and Thakura Mahasaya remained engaged in discussing aboutKrsna. We do
not know what Acarya, Thakura Mahasaya and Ramacandra had discussedalone. Sri
Acarya stayed there for 15 days and then went to Kancanagaria viaVudhuri. There
they stayed for 5 days and then went to Yajigrama.
At Yajigrama, Sri Acarya remained engaged in teaching his disciplesall the
devotional scriptures. Who will dare to interfere in hisdiscussions? The
debate-loving persons used to flee from that place. Students fromdistant places
used to come to him to study. Acarya used to visit many places as aprofessor of
devotional scriptures due to the favor of Sri Caitanya. Sinners andheretics due
to the favor of Acarya began to sing the glory of Sri KrsnaCaitanya.
Sri Thakura Narottama who was an ocean of qualities and anon-detachable?
feature of Sri Acarya, began to spend his days happily withRamacandra who was
more favorite to him than his own life. Sri Thakura Mahasaya andRamacandra
remained engaged in teaching Srimad Bhagavata and the books of theGosvamis to
their students. On listening to the analysis of devotionalscriptures by
Narottama, the believers in karma and jnana began to criticiseThakura Mahasaya
by saying, "Being a Vaisnava, he is criticising karma and jnana."But even the
brahmanas of distant places used to come to Khetari to studyGosvami books along
with the Vaisnavas and then began to teach others.
One day, Narottama with Ramacandra had been discussing the topic ofKrsna. In
the meantime, a distinguished brahmana came to Narottama and toldhim in crying,
"Oh being proud, I told so many things against you to many studentsbut on that
particular day I had criticised you, I became a prey to the diseaseof leprosy.
I took many medicines and performed many rituals, but alas, apartfrom cure,
the disease began to aggravate day by day. I thought of commitingsuicide by
jumping into the Ganges. In my dream, Devi Bhagavati apeared andangrily told
me, "You will face a severe misfortune. Being proud, you haveinsulted Narottama
by calling him a sudra. You are still a fool after studying so manyscriptures.
He who has taken Narottama as an ordinary man, has no chance ofaverting
misfortune in any life. If he forgives you, then you will get ridof
misfortune." Saying so, she disappeared. In the morning, I havecome straight
to you. First of all, I became afraid of facing you but a brahmanain my way
told me that you are ever merciful. I looked at you from a distancebut your
merciful feature at once has cooled my eyes as if I have got backmy life. Oh
lord, be merciful to me. I am taking refuge to your feet." Sayingso, the
brahmana began to cry loudly. He fell on the ground to touch thefeet of
Narottama.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya said, "You have done nothing to humiliate me."The brahmana
said, "Do put your feet on my head, then a sinner's mind will bepacified."
Narottama thinking of Sri Krsna Caitanya, embraced the brahmana.The brahmana
being very glad took the dust of Narottama's feet and began todance by raising
his hands. After a long time, he became quiet but by that time hisdisease had
gone and he became purified at long last. The feeling of love anddevotion arose
in the mind of the brahmana which led him to think, "This cureseems to me very
dangerous. I hope I could get the disease again for this cure maycreate pride
in my mind." So this thought made him a Vaisnava and his followersbecame
Vaisnavas too.
These news spread all over the village which made all the brahmanasscared.
They began to warn one another in this way, "Be careful in yourbehaviour about
Narottama. Don't call Narottama a low caste person." Someone said,"Being proud
of our brahmanism, we have failed to acknowledge a jewel likeNarottama."
Someone said, "There is no question of being a brahmana or a highcaste person.
Without his mercy, it is not possible to identify him." Someonesaid, "Narottama
is himself an abode of mercy. He by his own quality can save thesinners."
Someone said, "So many qualities do not belong to an ordinary man.He is a man
only in appearance. He is an incarnation to save the beings fromdamnation."
The brahmana warned his followers by singing the glory ofNarottama. Narottama's
qualities were above any discussion. He used to visit Yajigramafrom time to
time to meet Acarya.
I have elaborately discussed the meeting of Narottama and Acaryawith Vira
Hamvira in Bhakti-ratnakara. So be patient in listening toNarottama Vilasa by
Narahari.
THE TENTH VILASA
Glory to Gaura, Nityananda, Advaita and their associates. Be kindto this poor
soul. Glory to the merciful listeners.
Now listen, Sri Rama and Sri Raghunandana, two disciples of Acarya,came back
from Vrndavana. They reported gladly to Thakura Mahasaya about thewell-being
of Vraja. They told excitedly, "How can we describe the beauty ofRadha
Thakurani sent by Sri Jahnava Iswari? She had created a magnificentglory by
sitting in the left side of Gopinatha who Himself had ordered theGosvamis to
do that. They had held a great festival on this occassion that wehad seen by
our own eyes. The Vaisnavas of Vraja had become mad in joy."Hearing this
incident, all of them became very glad and Ramacandra requestedthose two to
take their baths quickly.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya with Ramacandra went gladly to take their bathin
Padmavati. On their way, they saw two brahmana boys were comingwtih many cubs
of goats, sheeps and buffaloes. Looking at them, Sri Mahasaya toldRamacandra
that these two boys had fine devotional qualities for worshippingKrsna.
Ramacandra began to discuss different scriptures in the presence ofthose two
boys. The boys on hearing the discussion from some distance beganto tell to
each other, "Most probably these two Vaisnavas are Sri ThakuraMahasaya and
Kaviraja. We have already heard about their glory. Today is anauspicious day
that we can meet them now." Saying so, they put aside the cubs andcame near to
Ramacandra and Thakura Mahasaya with a heart swinging like apendulum. Thakura
Mahasaya sweetly asked them, "Who are you? Whose son s you are?"One boy told,
"I am Harirama and he is my younger brother, Ramakrsna. SivaiAcarya is our
father. He used to spend a lot of money on the occassion of Bhavaniworship.
Balarama Kaviraja is a good physician. Being ordered by our father,we came here
to buy these cubs. My father believes that sacrifice of these cubsbefore the
goddess will grant him the happiness of heaven." After saying so,he called on
his men and ordered them to cross Padmavati leaving those cubshere. Being
ordered by Harirama Acarya, they crossed the river without the cubsand these
two brahmana boys. Harirama told Thakura Mahasaya, "True, we camehere to buy
the cubs, but now our visions have become cleaned by yourteachings. Now be
favorable to us and accept us and give once again the proof of yourglory."
Saying so the two brothers fell on the ground to touch hisfeet.
Observing the humble disposition of these two brothers, bothThakura Mahasaya
and Ramacandra became very much perturbed and embraced them. Aftertaking bath,
they took those boys to the temple of Prabhu most happily. That daywas an
auspicious day and Sri Kaviraja initiated Harirama. ThakuraMahasaya intitiated
Ramakrsna Acarya. Harirama and Ramakrsna were very fortunatebecause at once
they could get the feeling of the unattachable identity ofRamacandra and
Narottama. They fell prostrate on the feet of their religiousmasters who
empowered their disciples to a great extent. They dedicated theirdisciples to
the feet of Radha-Krsna and Caitanya. They helped their disciplesto know Sri
Bhakti Sidhantas thoroughly. Harirama and Ramakrsna became mad inthe juices of
love and devotion.
On the eleventh day i.e. the day after Vijaya Dasami (the tenth dayof the
worship of goddess Bhavani), they asked for their farewell fromtheir religious
masters and came back to Goyasa village from Khetari. They first ofall got
Balarama Kaviraja and spent that night in his house. They toldeverything to
Balarama who is turn reported everything about their father. In themorning
they became face to face with their father. On seeing his sons,Sivai became
fire with anger and shouted at them by saying, "Oh fools, which oneamong
the scriptures has said that the Vaisnavas are superior tobrahamanas? By
offending Bhagavati, you have spoilt your lives. What type ofVaisnava he is
that he made to accept defeat and humiliation before the society ofscholars?
I know I must be successful due the favor of Durga towards me. Thusfurther,
he won't dare to do this." Harirama became furious and cried outagain and
again, "Let the Panditas come here and let me see their powers.They have to
defeat me first otherwise all their shoutings will be proven fake."On hearing
the utterances of his son, Sivai Acarya became impatient in angerand forced
his son to appear before the Pandita Society. Harirama, proud likea lion,
refuted all the explanations of the Panditas and established thesuperiority of
devotion. He proved that the Vedas have said that the Vaisnavas areworshipped
by all. The Panditas being defeated from all respects, began tostare at
Harirama. Someone said, "How can he know all the scriptures?"Another one
replied, "From the favor of Vaisnavas, do you know the glory ofRamacandra
and Narottama? These two brothers had obtained favor from thosegreat Vaisnavas.
No one can defeat them." The Panditas became ashamed and went backto their
house after saying, "The Vaisnavas have power, no doubt." Out ofblind anger,
Sivai called forth Murari who was a world conquering scholar ofMithila. He was
so proud of his knowledge that he used to look upon the otherscholars like
grass under his feet. He came with many students and supporters.Balarama
Kaviraja very easily defeated him in the debate. Being defeated, hesaid, "It
is impossible for me to grasp the limit of glory of the Vaisnavas."Saying so,
he distributed all his belongings among others and tookself-banishment by not
going back to his own country. He accepted the life of a beggar.Sivai being
ashamed, reached to the dying condition. He became very sorry forinsulting the
Vaisnavas. He was rightly served by goddess Bhagavati.
The news of the people being converted into Vaisnavism spread allover the
countries. The Vaisnavas became very glad for this. Harirama andRamakrsna
Acarya gladly engaged themselves in nama-sankirtana. They becamemost apathetic
towards material life after getting the valuable wealth likedevotion. They
began to stay with Balarama Kaviraja being always engaged insinging the glory
of Sri Krsna Caitanya. One day, on some personal purpose, the twobrothers came
to Gamvila village on the bank of Suradhuni (Ganga). That place hadmany
scholars among whom Ganganarayana Cakravarti was the foremost one.He was a man
of devotional disposition and had conquered the desire for materialpleasure.
He was a good teacher. Secretly he had been watching Harirama andRamakrsna and
began to think after observing their transcendental brightness,"They were not
like this before, but now what a change has come in them. Kavirajaand Sri
Thakura Mahasaya had favored them for which they have become greatVaisnavas
and great scholars in all scriptures. Many scholars had accepteddefeat from
them. Being ashamed the world-conqueror scholar became a beggar.These two
brothers are very fortunate. He who had criticised ThakuraMahasaya, had been
rightly served by Bhagavati. I, the worst brahmana, being proud ofmy knowledge
had neglected him. The only way of my survival is to get favor fromhim. It is
known that he is very merciful."
Thinking in this way, Ganganarayana began to weep and to lament inthis way,
"There is no religion above Vaisnavism and worthless person like meget no
interest in that religion. Fie, fie to my life. Without worshippingKrsna, I
had spent the whole life on trifle things. Oh, lord Narottama, helpme to
obtain love and devotion. I am taking refuge to your lotusfeet."
In lamentation he spent most of the night. At late night, he fellasleep and
dreamt of Thakura Mahasaya in shinning glory and full of mercy. Hewas telling
him smilingly, "You are my servant, don't lament. All your desireswill be
fulfilled. Tomorrow, at the time of your bath in the Ganges, youwill see me. I
have come here from Khetari. That time I shall talk to you." As hedisappeared,
Ganganarayana became very sad.
In the morning, after quickly finishing his daily duties, he cameon the bank
of Ganga and sat there in silent prayer. Harirama and Ramakrsnacame to that
place. Cakravarty greeted them very humbly and told them, "Pleasedo stay here
for a few days with me. If I am fortunate enough to get Prabhuhere, please
tell him about me." Most fortunately, Mahasaya with some disciplescame to the
bank of the Ganges. Harirama and Ganganarayana told, "Look, prabhuby chance
has come to take bath in the Ganges." Ganganarayana became highlysatisfied
because he found Thakura Mahasaya just the same, he had seen in hisdream.
Cakravarty asked Harirama about the identities of the Vaisnavascoming with
Narottama. Harirama helped Ganganarayana to get the identities ofthem and
moved forward to Narottama to give the identity of Ganganarayana.With a smile,
Thakura Mahasaya said, "Bring Ganganarayana to me soon."
Ganganarayana came with Harirama and fell on the feet of Narottamawho in
a trance of love embraced Ganganarayana. In a sweet voice, heasked
Ganganarayana, "Well, gentleman, won't the other brahmanas mind forthis type
of your behaviour? Ganganarayana said, 'Oh my lord, if your favorgoes to the
poor soul, he never cares for those devotionless brahmanas." Sayingso he
worhipped the feet of Ramacandra. Ganganarayana was introduced toeverybody.
The people out of astonishment whispered to one another, "We foundhim in
Gamvila many times but what a surprise, he is now a completelychanged person."
Someone said, "He who was always proud of his knowledge, now how hehas became so humble? Someone said, "How this type of devotionarose in him? It was totally
imposible for him." Someone said, "Oh brothers, I think thateverything has
become posible due to the presence of this Mahasaya." Then everyonebegan to
praise the fortune of Ganganarayana who being a staunch brahmana,had become
a devout Vaisnava.
Anticipating that Ganganarayana was trying to tell something tohim, Thakura
Mahasaya told him, "Don't think anything else. After taking bath, Ishall go to
Vudhuri and tomorrow I shall go back to Khetari for I have someimportant
business to do in the temple of Gauranga. You should stay heretoday with
Harirama and Ramakrsna and tomorrow you all should go to Vudhuri.There you can meet Karnapura and others. On the next morning youall should go to Khetari
quickly." Saying so, after a quick bath, Mahasaya went to Vudhuriwith others.
Ganganarayana after his bath went to home with Harirama andRamakrsna and stayed at Gamvila for that day. In the early morningthey went to Vudhuri gladly and stayed in the house of Sri GovindaKaviraja. Divyasimha, son of Govinda became astonished to observethe devotional efforts Ganganarayana. There, Karnapura Kaviraja andothers were also present. In the morning they hastily came toKhetari and observed the image of Sri Gauranga. Ganganarayanaprayed before
Prabhu for the fulfilment of his desire. That day they spent in thepleasure of
sankirtana.
On the next morning, after finishing bath and daily duties, ThakuraMahasaya
thought that today was the most auspicious day to initiateGanganarayana. So
did he and dedicated Ganganarayana to the lotus feet of Sri KrsnaCaitanya.
Narottama, who was an incarnation of devotion, empoweredGanganarayana with his own power. Being overwhelmed with joy,Ganganarayana could not check his tears and lay prostrate on thelotus feet of Narottama who took him to his bosom.
Narottama dedicated Ganganarayana to Ramacandra. Ganganarayanaworshipped the feet of Ramacandra, Govinda Kaviraja and others. Allthe Vaisnavas there became very happy. Ganganarayana, the genius ofall scriptures, began to study the
Gosvami books. He began to swim continuously in the stream ofhappiness derived
from sankirtana. In this way, Ganganarayana achieved some extrahigh qualities
of love and devotion.
Jagannatha Acarya who was a devout worshipper of Bhagavati, wasordered by her
to take refuge to the lotus feet of Narottama. She told him,"Without
worshipping Krsna, life is a futile one. Go and touch the feet ofNarottama
who will give you salvation." Being ordered by her, he in the nextmorning came
to Khetari and fell on the feet of Thakura Mahasaya. With tears hetold Thakura
Mahasaya, "Being ordered by Bhagavati, I have come to you. Now I amat your
feet. Oh lord, please initiate me and save me from damnation."Hearing this
humble confession, Thakura Narottama initiated that brahmana. Inthis way,
Narottama got many disciples. For this incident, some became happywhile some
became angry.
There was a king in a distant place, named Narasimha who was agreat patron of
scholar brahmanas. One of those brahmanas angrily complained to theking,
"There is no one to think about religion which is in stake now.Narottama dasa,
son of Krsnananda Datta, had become a Vaisnava and now he isinitiating the
brahmanas. I don't know what type of a magician he is in doing allthese
miracles. If you say that he is a scholar, then my opinion is thisis his false
pride before the ignorants. Will he dare to face us? Let us go tohis place and
let see the fun. I know he must make haste to flee from there. Ifyou can
accomplish this, you will be praised by all the countries forkeeping the
prestige and superiority of the brahmanas. The king is the saviourand the only
judge due to the order of God. Otherwise the brahmana class will beperished."
On hearing this, the king made arrangements to go to Khetari withothers among
whom there was Rupanarayana also. The professors with many booksstarted
proudly. The king with his men halted at Kumarapura village nearKhetari. Here,
on getting the news of the king's coming, Mahasaya told Ramacandraslowly, "We
have to face the professors and I know a great debate will occur."Ramacandra
smiled and said, "They can be defeated very easily and will come tofall on
your feet." Thus Ramacandra and Ganganarayana came to Kumarapuraand took the guises of two shopkeepers. One of them became theseller of betel leaf in shop
to buy betel leaf. When he asked the price for betel leaf, theseller replied
in sanskrit. The student accepted his defeat. The seller said, "Youare a fool,
you know nothing. If you want to keep your prestige, go and bringyour
teacher."
The student being ashamed informed everything to his professor andsaid, "That
young sellers of Khetari, the place of Narottama, are greatscholars. If you
want to defeat Narottama, first defeat these young sellers.Otherwise stop
going to Khetari." Hearing this the Pandits became furious andordered the
student to guide them to that place. They began debate on differentscriptures.
Gradually Narasimha, Rupanarayana and many people came to thatplace to witness
the battle of scriptures. The seller men began to refute one by oneall the
explanations given by the Pandita in a very polite way. Thus veryeasily the
Panditas were defeated by the sellers. Someone said, "When thePanditas had
come here they were just like lions. But now after defeat they havebecome
dogs." Then the people began to sing the glory of ThakuraMahasaya.
These hearsays made the king nervous. He asked Rupanarayana veryslowly, "What is the way out now"? Rupanarayana said, "Vaisnavismis superior to all
religions. Humiliating the Vaisnavas leads to the path of hell. Letus go and
take refuge to his feet. Otherwise there is no way out fromdamnation."
Narasimha said, "I am also thinking so. Let us go quickly."Rupanarayana said,
"Stay here today. Tomorrow start with your men." This news spreadall over that
tomorrow the king with his men would go to Khetari. The conditionof the
professors was undoubtedly most miserable. They could not face theking due to
shame. They confined themselves in a lonely place. They used totell one
another about the forthcoming situation they had to facetomorrow.
Here after defeating the professors, the two shopkeepers startedfor Khetari.
Ramacandra distributed the betel leaves among the poor andGanganarayana also
distributed his earthen materials among the poor villagers. Beingsatisfied,
they returned to Khetari and reported everything to ThakuraMahasaya. Here King
Narasimha began to think silently whether a wicked person like himwould get
the mercy of Thakura Mahasaya. In extreme lamentation, he toldRupanarayana,
"My life will be totally futile unless I get his mercy." Certaininvisible
one throw the words, "He will forgive by his own forgivefulnature." The king
became very much perturbed to hear this and began to wait for themorning in
a swinging heart.
How pity was the condition of the professors. The most proudprofessor among
them fell asleep at late night and saw in his dream goddessBhagavati with
a sword in her hand. She told in an angry voice, "Oh you rogue, howfutile is
your whole life study. You will go to hell as you have criticisedthe Vaisnavas.
I shall be satisfied if I sever you head. Oh wicked soul, I don'tknow how to
give you a lesson. Only Narottama can save you from damnation."
Then with blood-shot eyes, the goddess vanished. Waking up fromsleep, the
professor began to tremble in fear. He awakened others with a shoutand told
others, "Luckily I am saved. Bhagavati came to kill me as I hadunderestimated
Narottama. Now only he can save me from the sufferings of thehell." In the
morning, he went to report everything to the king. The king told,"I had forbade
you before to criticise Narottama as an ordinary man. Is it posiblefor a human
being to perform all these transcendental deeds? Sri ThakuraMahasaya is
respected person to us all." Saying so, he consoled thepandita.
After taking their baths, the king with all the professors startedfor Khetari
on foot. Reaching Khetari, they hastily went to the courtyard ofGauranga.
Being very humble, the king with others lay prostrate on the groundto bow
to Sri Gauranga. Ramacandra, the most wise person, with Govinda andothers,
took great care of them. All of them became very eager to meet SriThakura
Mahasaya who had been sitting in a lonely place. After a while, SriThakura
Mahasaya came to that place and everyone had been observing hisbeauty. King
Narasimha and Rupanarayana advanced forward first towards Narottamaand said
humbly, "Oh lord, how can we introduce ourselves? We are fullmaterialists and
wicked persons. We are dedicating ourselves to you but we areafraid of telling
anything to you. Please kindly initiate us and fulfil our desires."Saying so,
they fell on his feet with tears in their eyes. Observing theirperturbed
condition, Thakura Mahasaya very affectionately consoled them andembraced them.
Narasimha and Rupanarayana fell on the ground to touch his feet andat once all
their agonies were vanished and they got extreme peace in theirminds.
The king brought that illustrious professor to Narotama and said,"He is the
head of the professors. His pride has gone and now forgive andfavor him." That
brahmana stood before Mahasaya and sorrowfully reported about theanger of the
goddess. He fell on the ground in crying and sought the refuge ofNarottama.
Sri Thakura Mahasaya, the image of mercy, favored him by embracinghim. Then
Ramacandra pacified him by lifting him from the ground. Then all ofthem became
devotees of Krsna Caitanya.
Thakura Mahasaya with all of them came to the courtyard of Prabhuand observed
the waving light ceremony of Prabhu. Sri Santosa Raya most heartilytook them
to a house and brought many things for their eating. He most humblyrequested
them to cook their food but Narasimha and others begged prasadamfrom Santosa
Raya who most gladly granted this proposal. So Narasimha,Rupanarayana and
others went to that place where Sri Thakura Mahasaya with hisfollowers had
been sitting. How can I describe the divine pleasure they got ineating
prasadam? Then they spent the whole day in extreme pleasure.
On the next day, in an auspicious moment all of them tookinitiation from Sri
Thakura Narottama who dedicated them to the feet of Prabhu.Rupanarayana and
others stayed there for a few days during which they began to studythe Gosvami
books. In due course of time all of them became possessors of loveand devotion
and extremely interested in doing sankirtana. They used to enjoythe songs
written by Sri Govinda Kaviraja. They used to listen to SrimadBhagavata from
Ganganarayana Cakravarty. In this way, they forgot the differencebetween day
and night. He who once came to Khetari forgot to go elsewhereleaving this type
of divine pleasure. King Narasimha and Rupanarayana hurriedly wentto their
country to bring the queen Rupamala who was a devoted wife and alady of
beautiful disposition. Thakura Mahasaya became very happy toobserve her
beautiful nature and gave her initiation. Rupamala became so happythat she
sweared to take one lakh of Harinama in a day. Everyone began tosing the glory
of Thakura Mahasaya.
Haricandra Raya was a dacoit. He heard about the qualitites ofThakura Mahasaya
and came to take refuge to his feet. Thakura Mahasaya saved himfrom damnation
by giving him initiation. After initiation, he was renamed asHaridasa and
became the possessor of precious gem-like devotion. He gave up? hisZamindari
of Jalapantha. Everyone became astonished to see the change in adacoit. The
people began to whisper, "Sri Thakura Mahasaya is a man oftranscendental
qualitites by which he subdued a dacoit very easily. But Canda Rayais the most
notorious of all dacoits. If he can overcome Canda Raya, the wholecountry
can heave a sigh of relief." Someone said, "Don't worry, Canda Rayawill soon
be favored and with all his men will be great Vaisnavas. Due tothat favor, he
must give up his dacoity."
In the meantime, one brahmana came to them to inform about therescue of Canda
Raya by Thakura Mahasaya. Canda Raya was a terror before but nowhis only
appearance could give pleasure to the eyes. The brahmana furthersaid, "I have
seen in my own eyes that Canda Raya and his men are dancing insankirtana on
the courtyard of Prabhu." Hearing this miraculous incident, thepeople in
a crowd went to see Canda Raya whom they found lying on the dust ofthe ground
and his whole body was trembling with emotion. Everyone got relieffor averting
the tyranny of Canda Raya.
In the meantime, some unkown persons with arms and weapons came tothat place
and asked the people how Canda Raya had become a Vaisnava. Thepeople explained the whole event in nutshell. Canda Raya with hisfollowers were devotees of goddess Bhagavati. Canda Raya was apowerful Zamindar and the head of the
dacoits. Goddess Bhagavati became so angry upon him that shepunished him with
the help of a brahmana ghost. When again she found that Canda'slife was at
stake, she ordered him to take refuge to the feet of Narottama.Thakura Mahasaya
favored him and rescued him from damnation. Canda Raya became amost humble
Vaisnava.
Taking advantage of his weakness, the Yavana king tried to torturehim. But
Canda Raya did not bother about his pains and remained loyal to thefeet of
Narottama. The Yavana king brought a mad elephant to kill CandaRaya but the
elephant fled away instead of moving forward towards Canda Raya.Being highly
disturbed the king ordered to imprison Canda Raya. Instead of beingsad, Canda
Raya thought gladly that he had been rightly served for hismisdeeds. Someone
suggested him to cite hymns praising the goddess but Canda Rayarefused to cite
any other hymns that hymns of Lord Krsna. Observing his sincerity,Prabhu became so glad that due to him the Yavana king became soafraid that he released Raya after begging to him. He came toKhetari to meet Thakura Mahasaya.
Hearing all these incidents, the unknown persons, throwing outtheir weapons,
laid prostrate on the ground before Thakura Mahasaya. ThakuraMahasaya asked
them sweetly about their particulars. They replied in tears, "Weare dacoits of
Bengal and the most disgracing thing is that we are brahmanas andCanda Raya is
our leader. We used to do dacoity on the river. This time we hadcome here to
consult with Raya but we heard about the episode of Canda Raya fromthe people.
Now we have changed our minds. Observing your lotus feet fromdistance, a sudden change came to our mind. We are wicked androbbers. Please save us from
damnation." Now they began to cry miserably. In the meantime CandaRaya came to that place and all of them became very happy to seehim. Canda Raya very humbly greeted them all. After a few days,Thakura Mahasaya initiated them all.
If anyone listens to these episodes, can get rid of damnation. Sobe attentive
to Narottama Vilasa by Narahari.
THE ELEVENTH VILASA
Glory to Gaura, Nityananda, Advaita and their associates favor thepoor soul.
Glory to the merciful listeners.
Now listen to me. Kaviraja Thakura and Thakura Mahasaya wrote twoseparate
letters in which they enclosed the songs written by Sri Govinda toVrndavana
very carefully. In reply from Vrndavana, they got the news of thewell-being of
that place. Thus gladly they conveyed this news to Yajigrama. AtYajigrama,
Acarya with his students and followers used to spend the days indiscussing
about devotional scriptures. On knowing the efforts of SriNarottama by which
he had favored and saved many heretics and wicked dacoits, pleasedAcarya to
a great extent. He at once decided to go to Khetari.
In the meantime, someone informed that Virabhadra had come to theirplace.
Being delighted, Acarya Thakura advanced forward to meet Viracandrawho on
seeing Acarya coming towards him, got down from his palanquinquickly. Acarya
and his followers fell on the ground to show their respect toVirabhadra who at
once embraced Acarya and asked about his well being. Viracandrastarted walking
slowly with Acarya by holding the hand of Acarya.
Acarya very humbly asked Viracandra Prabhu, "I thought one day atKhardaha that
I will go to Khetari via Yajigrama. With my followers I had alreadyvisited the
places of Nadia. Then I went to Sri Khanda and from there quickly Ihave come
here." Saying so, he entered into a house and took his seat. Thevisit of Prabhu
so delighted Acarya that it seemed to him as if the actual ownerhad come to his
own place. Draupadi Iswari and Sri Gauranga-priya, wives of Acarya,bowed to
the feet of Viracandra Prabhu. They washed the feet of Prabhu withcold water.
The eldest son of Acarya, who had been named by Sri Jiva Gosvami asVrndavana,
was a boy of very beautiful intellect. Vrndavana with his twobrothers,
Radhakrsna and Sri Gitagovinda fell on the feet of Prabhu whoblessed them very
affectionately. He put his feet on the heads of the threerespectively. The
three daughters of Acarya, Hemalata, Krsnapriya and Sri Kancanalatawere very
devotional minded. They also bowed to the feet of Prabhu Viracandrawho blessed
them too. Prabhu asked about their well being very sweetly and thethree girls
spontaneously dedicated themselves to the feet of Prabhu. Aftersometime, Prabhu
with his followers went to take bath.
Here, the wives of Acarya quickly took their bath and startedcooking for
Prabhu various items of food. They decorated the rice plate withscented rice
and other items. One wise disciple of Acarya offered food first toSalagrama
Candra and also to that Govardhana Sila given by Prabhu Nityanandato
Viracandra. The two Thakuranis decorated the rice plates for twoPrabhus. After
the eating of Govardhana Sila and Sri Vansivadana, the priestoffered the water
for washing mouth. Then he offered betel leaves to them. After thatthey went
to bed.
Here after coming back from the river, Viracandra and his followerstook their
seats for eating by sitting in the courtyard of Gauranga. PrabhuViracandra
told Sri Acarya to sit with him and to take food. Acarya Thakurasaid humbly,
"It is not fair to sit with you for eating for I want to eat afteryou all."
Hearing this, Prabhu caught Acarya's hand and said with a smile,"There is no
one to blame you if you sit by my side and take food with me."Acarya was
unable to violate Prabhu's request. Thus he sat with PrabhuViracandra.
Everyone became charmed to observe the beauty of all the greatVaisnavas
sitting in a row. Banana leaves were placed before them and Prabhuordered to
serve the food. Then wives of Acarya began to serve food. Sridasa,Gokulananda
and Vyasa decorated the plates filled with bowls full of deliciouscurries. All
of them with Viracandra ate most happily. After eating, they washedtheir mouths
and took betel leaves. Prabhu took rest a little and then spent therest of day
and night in discussing about Krsna.
In the morning, Sri Viracandra with Acarya started for Khetari mostgladly. All
of them reached Vudhuri via Kantakanagara. Govinda and othersgetting the news
of their coming, had been waiting on the path. Viracandra Prabhuwith Acarya
and others met Govinda and others on the way. Govinda most gladlytook them to
the house. Viracandra and Acarya became very pleased to getbeautiful resting
places and delicious food. They stayed two days at Vudhuri. All theVaisnavas
of that place came to meet Prabhu, Acarya and others. After takingbath in
Padmavati River, all of them crossed the river and most happilymoved towards
Khetari.
On knowing the coming of Prabhu, Thakura Mahasaya ordered his cooksto prepare various items of food. He collected different kinds offruits and sweets. He
ordered his men to clean the houses. Then he with his men stood onthe road and
waited for Prabhu. Prabhu with his followers appeared just like themillion
moons to soothe the heat of the sun. Thakura Mahasaya advancedforward and bowed to the feet of Viracandra. Prabhu embracedNarottama who could not hold his tears and touched the feet ofPrabhu again and again. Acarya Thakura and Sri
Thakura Mahasaya took Prabhu to the courtyard and temple ofGauranga. They
observed the images of Gauranga, Vallabhikanta, Sri Vrajamohana,Radhakrsna,
Radhakanta, Sri Radharamana. Viracandra could not control his tearsafter
observing the beautiful images. He fell on the ground again andagain to bow to
the images. When he checked his emotion, the priest gave him theoffered garland
of Prabhu. Acarya Thakura then very carefully took him to thehouse. The priest
also gave offered garlands to all the Vaisnavas who came withViracandra. The
people of Khetari came to see Prabhu Viracandra. On their way backto their
houses, one said to another, "Nityananda is Balarama himself andPrabhu
Virabhadra is his son and is an abode of qualities. His beautifulfeature can
increase the thirst of the eyes to see him again." Someone said,"We are very
fortunate to have the chance of seeing him most easily." Someonesaid, "All
these have become possible only due to Sri Thakura Mahasaya."
Here Viracandra took his seat with his followers in the beautifulhouse. Acarya
Thakura told very sweetly to Viracandra Prabhu, "Your food is readybecause it
has been prepared before your coming to the house." Prabhu took outhis
Govardhana Sila from his cloth bag and offered food before Him.After His
eating, he again put Him in his cloth bag. Then varieties ofprasadam came from
the temple. Prabhu told Acarya, "Now I am hungry. So let us notwaste time."
He with all his followers sat down to eat. Harirama, Ramakrsna,Ganganarayana,
Sri Govinda Cakravarti and others began to serve various items offood to
Viracandra and other Vaisnavas. Due to the superb taste of allitems, Prabhu
and others ate too much. Then they washed their mouths. After thatAcarya
Thakura with his followers began to discuss about Radhakrsna andCaitanya and
in this way they spent the whole day and night.
In the morning, Prabhu took his bath. Then Sri Santosa stood beforePrabhu with
a beautiful cloth in his hand and requested Prabhu to wear it. Healso offered
new clothes to all the Vaisnava followers of Prabhu. Prabhu thendecorated his
Govardhana Sila with flowers, sandalpaste and Tulasi and offeredfood before
Him. Then he distributed the prasadam among all. After them Prabhuate himself.
With the permission of Prabhu, Acarya and Thakura Mahasaya decidedto start
sankirtana.
On hearing the announcement of sankirtana, people from every cornerof Khetari
came running to throng all around the courtyard. In the afternoon,after
Viracandra's coming with his associates to the courtyard ofGauranga, the
Utthvapana arati ceremony took place. The priest gave him thegarland and sadal
offerings. Acarya delightfully decorated Prabhu with sandalpasteand flower
garlands and began to weep in joy to observe the beauty of Prabhu.Thakura
Mahasaya with other singers and instrumentalists started sankirtanagladly.
Within a second the whole atmosphere changed into a divine-likefeelings.
Devidasa started playing khola and kartala. Gokula started singingnectar-like
kirtana, the sound of which pierced the heaven. The voice of SriMahasaya led
to the ocean of happiness to overflow its bank. Viracandra amidstthe group of
Vaisnavas began to shine like the sun. He in his beautiful featurebegan to
dance magnificiently with the music and kirtana. With raised handshe began to
utter "Haribola" very sweetly. His big deep eyes began to shedtears of joy.
His restless lotus-like fet began to move very beautifully. Thegods began to
shower flowers upon the heads of the Vaisnavas. Prabhu Viracandrain the hope
of dancing with all of them, began to stare here and there. In themeantime, he
found that Sri Acarya with his follwers were dancing by his side.The earth
began to tremble by the feet steppings of the dancers. Graduallyall of them
forgot their own entities and began to roar like lions.
Someone began to tremble out of trance. Someone began to hold thefeet of
Viracandra. Someone began to roll on the ground out of ecstasy.Prabhu out of
ecstasy tightly embraced Narottama and did not let him go out ofhis embrace.
Sometimes he began to caress the face of Gokula. Sometimes he beganto praise
Sri Govinda Kaviraja for his songs. Then he began to encourageGokula to sing
more. Sri Gokula thus began to sing more beautifully the songswritten by Sri
Govinda in a very expert manner. In this way midnight came. Thenthey stopped
sankirtana and took their seats in the courtyard of Gauranga.
In the morning all the Vaisnavas came to the house of Viracandrawho requested
Ramacandra to sing the songs of Sri Rasa Vilasa. Ramacandra's voicewas just
like nectar. His beautiful analysis of Bhagavatam highly pleasedViracandra.
Viracandra told Acarya, "I am afraid, can I meet you all again andhave this
valuable company of yours?" Saying so, he began to weep. Acaryaalso began to
weep with him. Somehow they checked their emotions and then SriRupa Ghataka,
Ganganarayana, Syamadasa, Govinda and others brought fruit andsweets offerings
for Sri Govardhana Sila. Prabhu offered them to Him. After that heoffered
betel leaves to Him and then put Him in a gold casket inside hiscloth bag.
After observing the image of Sri Gauranga, they all tookprasadam.
Prabhu then took some rest and after that he told Acarya, "I wantto back to
Khardaha via Ekacakra. Tomorrow morning I have decided to start.You should go
with me for some distance." Acarya said, "Who will stand beforeyour decision?
Do what you want to do." Prabhu Viracandra said with a smile, "Icannot turn
down your request. I have just tell you about my programme, now dowhat you
think better." Acarya told Narottama, "Tomorrow, Prabhu will leaveKhetari with
me." Hearing this Thakura Mahasaya became very much perturbed andAcarya
pacified him. He ordered Santosa to make arrangements for Prabhu'sgoing. He
ordered Thakura Kanai to pack the things what they would send withPrabhu. He
ordered Rupa Ghataka to pack the things what Acarya would carry. Hesent
a messenger to Vudhuri very quickly and ordered his men to arrangea large
number of boats for Prabhu on the bank of Padmavati.
Next morning, Prabhu Viracandra with Acarya and others stood beforeGauranga.
Then Prabhu returned to his house where many persons came to sayfarewell to
Prabhu. Prabhu then started for the bank of Padmavati. Thedisciples of Thakura
Mahasaya very humbly touched the feet of Prabhu Viracandra whoblessed them
all. Viracandra consoled Thakura Mahasaya and Ramacandra Kavirajain variuos
ways and took leave of them for some months. Acarya also consoledthe villagers
of Khetari. Then he with Viracandra boarded on the boat. Ramacandraand others
also took another boat. The boatmen started the boats. Theremaining Vaisnavas
along with Thakura Mahasaya who had been standing on the bank ofPadmavati
started crying loudly. Viracandra with his followers reachedVudhuri by crosing
Padmavati.
With a clouded heart, Thakura Mahasaya returned to the temple ofGauranga. All
of them observed Gauranga, Vallabhikanta, Sri Vrajamohana,Radhakanta,
Radhakrsna and Sri Radharamana whose faces at once removed theclouds from
their minds. Thakura Mahasaya with others quickly took their bathsand then ate
mahaprasadam. They spent that day in discussing about Krsna. Butsince that
day, Thakura Mahasaya became quite restless.
After a few days, Ramacandra came from Yajigrama. Thakura Mahasayabecame very glad to get back Ramacandra and became engaged insankirtana for the days and nights with Govinda and others in thecourtyard of Gauranga. Even king Narasimha and Canda Raya joinedthem in that wave of happiness. After a few days, Thakura Mahasayatold his disciples, "For a long time you have not gone to your ownhouses. This time pay a quick visit to your places." Though no onereally wanted to leave Thakura Mahsaya, yet being ordered by him,they had to start for their houses. Only Ramacandra stayed withhim.
One day, sitting in a lonely place, Thakura Mahasaya and Ramacandradiscussed
something secret. Ramacandra Kaviraja after soetimes went toYajigrama with
a perturbed mind. A message came from Yajigrama that Sri AcaryaThakura had
gone to Vrndavana with Ramacandra Kaviraja. Who could understandthe mind of
those two?
One day Sri Mahasaya could not control his mind and began to lamentfor some
unprecedented happenings. He began to sing:
"The associates of Gauranga are Srinivasa, Gadadhara, Narahari,Mukunda,
Murari. Svarupa Damodara, Haridasa, Vakresvara are possessors ofdivine love.
The sports what they had performed could melt the stone, but howunforunate I
am for not able to witness them. I failed to be born at that timeand remained
ignorant, how can I forget this sorrow? Prabhu Sanatana, Rupa,Raghunatha
Bhatta, Bhugarbha, Sri Jiva, Lokanatha, all these Prabhus didbeautiful sports
in Vrndavana with other devotees. Now all of them have disapeared,leaving this
world empty, my eyes have become blind to whom I shall disclose mysorrow? Thus I am living like an animal. Acarya Srinivasa to whom Igot the refuge and whose words used to cool my mind, he also hasleft me, and Ramacandra is absent, how can I live without them? Thesorrows which I am bearing in my mind, cannot be told to others. SoI have lost interest in my own life. The food I used to eat
is just like poison to me, yet I am still living. Then what is thevalue of
Narottama dasa?"
At that moment, the news came to him that Ramacandra Kaviraja haddisappeared
from the world. Sri Thakura Mahasaya completely broke down and ranto a dense
forest. He began to cry loudly and lamented for Ramacandra. Hisvoice became
chocked and he fell on the ground. King Narasimha, Rupanarayana,Sri Govinda,
Santosa could do nothing to pacify him. They could only cry alongwith Thakura
Mahasaya. Due to the wish of Prabhu, he pacified himself after along time.
After 5-7 days, he decided to go for a bath in the Ganges. So someof his
disciples very carefully took him to Vudhuri and from there toGamvila near the
bank of the Ganges. Suddenly he got tremendous temperature and heordered his
disciples to prepare a pyre for him. Then he remained completelysilent. His
disciples became completely at a loss. Ganganarayana pacifiedothers. Many
brahmana panditas came to meet him but he did not speak to them. Inthis state,
he spent three days. He remained detached from the people. Hisdisciples bathed
him in the Ganges and placed him on a celestial seat on the pyre.The brahmanas
began to jeer at Narottama by saying in this way, "This is theresult of his
effort of making brahmanas, his disicples. Now Narottama is dyingafter losing
the power of speaking. Ganganarayana being a brahmana has becomehis disciple
after discarding the customs of a brahmana. Now he is witnessingthe condition
of his religious master. We don't know what is expecting for himalso."
In this way, they began to throw the arrows of words towardsGanganarayana.
Instead of being angry, Ganganarayana felt sorry for thoseheretics. He came
and stood before the pyre with folded hands and prayed toNarottama, "You had
saved many heretics before. This time these heretics being ignorantof your
power, are criticising you. Your disciples are feeling very sad tohear their
bad words. Please be favorable to them and save them fromdamnation."
On hearing the helpless utterances of Ganganarayana Mahasaya againcame back
into sense. He got up on the pyre uttering "Radhakrsna Caitanya"and came out
of the pyre shinning like the sun. The people around him began toshout
Haribola. Suddenly the gods began to shower flowers on him.
The now-believer brahmanas watching everything from distance becamehorrified.
They began to repent for their evil mentality. With tears in theireyes, they
fell on the feet of Ganganarayana and asked for mercy. Being movedby their
prayers, Ganganarayana went to Mahasaya and requested him toforgive those
brahmanas. The brahmanas then fell on the feet of Narottama andcompletely
surrendered themselves after confessing all their sins. ThakuraMahasaya became
so moved that he at once embraced them and empowered them withdevotion. He
ordered them to study devotional books to Ganganarayana.
He then told everybody, "After few days I shall go to Khetari andyou all
should go with me. Today I shall go to Vudhuri." Saying so hequickly took bath
in the Ganges. This incident spread all over the country. From thebank of the
Ganges, Mahasaya with others went to the house of Ganganarayana.There they ate
prasadam. Then he started for Vudhuri very gladly. He went back toKhetari with
Sri Govinda, Kaviraja, Karnapura, Kaviraja Gokula, Valabhi Majumdarand others
and remained engaged on the topics of Krsna. Narottama used toserve the
Prabhus all the time. Sometimes he used to roll in the dust of thecourtyard of
Gauranga and used to pray to the Prabhu in this way, "Oh LordGauranga, Vallabhi
Kanta Krsna, be merciful to me like a materialist. Oh Lord,Radhakanta, Sri
Vrajamohana, let me get rid of the agonies of this material world.Oh Lord
Radharamana, let me lie under your feet and do help me to rememberyou in this
life and life after death." In this way, he used to lamenteveryday.
In order to avoid crowd, he used to enter into the dense forest andcry out
loudly, "Oh Lord Gauranga Sundara, the moon of Navadvipa, oh LordNityananda,
son of Padmavati, oh Lord Advaita, the husband of Sita, oh Lord SriPandita
Gadadhara, the abode of love, oh Lord, Pandita Srivasa, the oceanof mercy, oh
lords Vakresvara, Sri Murari, Haridasa, Sri Svarupa, Ramananda,Damodara, Sri
Acarya Gopinatha, Kasisvara, oh lords Vacaspati, SarvabhaumaBhattacarya, oh
lords Suryadasa, Gauridasa, oh Sri Pandita Jagadisa Suklamvara, ohSri Govinda
Ghosa, Dasa Gadadhara, oh Pundarika Vidyanidhi Mahasaya, Mukunda,Madhava, Vasu Ghosa, Dhananjaya, oh Sri Jagadananda, Sankara,Sridhara, oh Sri Mukunda,
Narahari, oh Sri Rupa, Sanatana, Sri Bhugarbha, Lokanatha, oh SriGopala Bhatta,
Raghunatha Bhatta, oh Svarupa Raghunatha, the dwellers of SriKunda, oh Sri Jiva
Gosvami and oh the devotees of Gaura Nityananda, be merciful to me,I am at your
feet. Don't neglect me because I am a sinner. Please fulfill mydesires."
With these prayers his eyes began to shed continuous tears. Hebegan to roll on
the ground. He began to pray to Sri Govinda, Gopinatha,Madanamohana, Radha
Damodara, Sri Radharamana, Radhavinoda and the Queen of Vrndavana.He also
prayed to Lalita, Visakha, Sucitra, Sri Campakalatika, Rangadevi,Sudevi,
Tungavidya, Indulekha, Sri Rupamanjari, Ratimanjari, Kasturi,Lavangamanjari,
Manjulali to help him to stay under the feet of Radharani.
He prayed to Sri Radha, "Oh Sri Radharani, Krsna is yours, you arealways
engaged in His service. Please give me the chance of worshippingYou both.
I want to place you on a jewelled throne and I shall fan you atthat time.
Being directed by the sakhis, I shall offer betel leaves to yourmoon-like
mouths. Will any desires be fulfilled?"
Saying so, he sighed. Then he tried to remember the sports ofGauranga with his
asociates in Nadia. Observing the restless state of mind of ThakuraMahasaya,
Sri Radhavallabha became very anxious. Sometimes Thakura Mahasayaused to
console his dear disciples and used to concentrate them insankirtana. One day
he asked his disciples about the delay of Ganganarayana in comingto Khetari.
In the meantime, Ramakrsna and Ganganarayana came with thosebrahmanas. All of them bowed to the feet of Thakura Mahasaya andexpressed their desires of being
initiated by Thakura Mahasaya. Thakura Mahasaya became glad. Heintitiated some
of them and some of them got initiation from Ganganarayana. Afterthat, all of
them went to the courtyard of Gauranga. The priest gave themoffered garlands.
Sri Govinda Kaviraja and others became satisfied to observe thesincere efforts
of the brahmanas. Sri Sankara Bhattacarya and other brahmanas veryhumbly bowed to the feet of the Vaisnavas.
On the next day, a great festival took place. The brahmanas becamemad in
sankirtana. One day, Mahasaya in the morning, began to shed tearshelplessly
with fire-like sighs. He laid down on the ground for sometime andhis lotus
face became dry. He with a chocked voice, began to lament in thisway, "How
cruel is the providence to me, where Srinivasa has gone aftergiving me so much
pain? I had Ramacandra but he also had left me and I cannot hear aword from
him any longer. Can I have him again in my life, my life has becomefutile.
Svarupa, Rupa, Sanatana, Raghunatha, the merciful, and the Bhattas,be kind to
me. Acarya Srinivasa whose servant is Ramacandra, can I have themagain? Without observing their faces my heart is getting pierced,just like a doe pierced by
poisonous arrow. I kept some jewels hidden under my cloth, who hasstolen them
why Narottama is suffering so much misery?"
Saying so, he kept mum and everyone became aware of some unforeseenincidents.
On knowing the state of mind of his dear disciples, Mahasayaconsoled them all.
Thakura Mahasaya came to the courtyard of Gauranga and dedicatedhimself once
again to the feet of Prabhu. He started for Vudhuri with Govindaand others. He
stayed one day at Vudhuri and Sri Govinda Cakravarti and otherscame to meet
him. After talking very sweetly with them, Mahasaya spent the dayand night in
sankirtana. From Vudhuri, he quickly moved to Gamvila.
After taking bath in the Ganges, he sat in the water and orderedRamakrsna and
Ganganarayana to massage his body. But there was no chance ofmassaging his
body because only the touch of their hands, Thakura Mahasaya's bodymelted like
milk and vanished in the Ganges. Suddenly the river becameturbulent. Everyone
became puzzled at this. The gods began to shower flowers from theheaven on
seeing this type of disappearance. The cry of Hari Hari filled theair. The
disciples of Sri Mahasaya went to the house of Ganganarayana andvery patiently
they kept themselves calm and quiet. Sri Govinda Kaviraja andothers quickly
arranged for a funeral ceremony at Gamvila. Then they went hastilyto Khetari
via Vudhuri. There king Narasimha, Rupanarayana, Krsnasimha, CandaRaya, Sri
Gopiramana, Sri Govinda, King Santosa and others startedpreparations for
a great festival.
Due to the fear of exaggeration, I restrain myself from describingthe festival
in toto but when they started sankirtana in the courtyard ofGauranga, within
a short time, Devidasa, Gauranga, Gokula, Sri Govinda Kaviraja andothers forgot
their own entities. They began to roll of the ground. They began toroar like
lions and they began to soak the ground with their tears. Suddenlydue to the
favor of guru, Krsna and Vaisnavas, everyone witnessed Narottamadancing with
them. When he vanished everyone lost their patience. So Narotatmaagain appeared
and consoled them all. Who can realise the qualities of ThakuraMahasaya?
So to get his favor, be attentive to Narottama Vilasa, narrating byNarahari.
THE TWELFTH VILASA
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Nityananda Prabhu, AdvaitaAcarya and
their associates. Please be kind to this poor soul. All glories tothe merciful
listeners.
Who could possibly describe all the wonderful disciples of SriThakura Mahasaya?
Although I am unqualified and ignorant, I shall try to describesome of the
branches and twigs who descended from the tree of Sri Narottamadasa Thakura.
Please forgive my frailties and bestow your mercy upon me as I amalways at your
service.
All glories to the disciples of Sri Mahasaya. Sri CaitanyaMahaprabhu,
Nityananda and Advaita are their very life. Glory to Sri PujariBalarama who
satisfied the Lord by his intense devotion. Glory to Cakravarti SriGopiramana
to whom Gauracandra and his associates are the life. Glory to SriAcarya
Ramakrsna, the mine of qualities whose branches and twigs coveredthe whole
world. Glory to Sri Pujari Ravi Raya who derived immense pleasurefrom simply
serving the Vaisnavas. All glories to Cakravarti Ganganarayana whoalso has
many disciples. Glory to Radhavallabha Caudhuri who bound SriThakura Mahasaya by his love. Ramakanta is the elder brother of SriMahasaya and Sri
Radhavallabha is the son of Ramakanta. Glory to Sri Ghosa whosesongs charmed
Sri Thakura Mahasaya. Glory to Krsna Sinha who is better known asSinha Vikrama.
He is always mad with love, and is an expert musician. Glory to SriSantosa Raya
whose service charmed Sri Thakura Mahasaya. Narottama Thakura isvery
affectionate towards Sri Govinda Kaviraja who expressed hisrealizations through
his songs. Being requested by Santosa, Kaviraja gladly wrote adrama named
Sangita Madhava. Glory to King Sri Govindarama whose tongue used tochant
Harinama incessantly. Glory to Sri Vinoda Raya who used to dancemadly in
sankirtana. Glory to Phagu Caudhuri, a great scholar whose songscould even
charm the Gandharvas. Glory to the great scholar Sri Casanta Rayawho is always
absorbed in the pastimes of Krsna Caitanya. Glory to Sri SitalaRaya whose calm
disposition always charms the Vaisnavas. Glory to Prabhu Ramadattawhose eyes
always shed tears of love. Glory to apathetic Dharmadasa Caudhuriwho practises
firm belief in the Vaisnavas. Glory to Nityanandadasa who is mad inlove for
Prabhu Nityananda. Glory to Candidasa, an abode of good qualities,who is kind
to the wicked and poor. Glory to Dhiru Caudhuri whose qualitiesused to make
the animals and birds cry. Glory to Vonka Ramabhadra, a veryhumourous person.
Glory to the friend of the poor, Ramabhadra Raya. Glory toRupanarayana whose
songs used to melt everyone's heart. Glory to JanakivallabhaCaudhuri Thakura.
Glory to Sri Srimanta Datta Bhandari Glory to Rupanarayana PujariThakura.
Glory to apathetic Vaisnava Carana. Glory to broadminded Sivaramadasa. Glory
to Krsnadasa Vairagi Thakura. Glory to king Narasimha. Glory toQueen Rupamala.
Glory to Canda Raya. Glory to Narayana Raya. Glory to RamacandraRaya. Glory to the kirtana singer Devidasa whose songs madden theVaisnavas. Glory to
Radhakrsna Bhattacarya of Navadvipa. Glory to wise Sri ThakuraKrsnadasa. Glory
to Catna Ramadasa. Glory to Sankara Visvasa. Glory to the greatsinger Gandharva
Raya. Glory to Madana Raya, son of Gandharva Raya. Glory toGangadasa Raya.
Glory to the instrumentalist Gauranga dasa whose mrdanga playingremoves
the agony of everyone. Glory to Sri Acarya Jayakrsna. Glory toVaru
Caitanyadasa. Glory to Vraja Raya. Glory to Radhakrsna dasa. Gloryto Krsna
Raya. Glory to Thakura Sri Dayarama dasa. Glory to Sri Purusottama.Glory to
the great singer Gokula dasa. Glory to Haridasa whose only desireis to live in
Navadvipa. Glory, glory to Ganga Haridasa. Glory to Sri ThakuraHaridasa. Glory
to Sri Jagata Raya. Glory to the singer Rupa Raya. Glory to DhiruCaudhuri.
Glory to Sri Kanta. Glory to Sri Mathura dasa. Glory to SriBhagavata dasa.
Glory to Jagadisa Raya. Glory to Thakura Sri Mahesa Caudhuri. Gloryto Ganesa
Caudhuri. Glory to Candrasekhara. Glory to Sri Govinda Raya. Gloryto Narottama
a Majumdara. Glory to Sri Sri Sankara Bhattacarya. Glory to SriGosvami dasa.
Glory to Sri Murari dasa. Glory to Sri Vasanta Datta. Glory toThakura Sri
Syama dasa. Glory to Sri Jayagopala Datta. Glory to Ramadeva Datta.Glory to
Gangadasa Datta. Glory to Manohara Ghosa. Glory to Sri MukutaMaitra. Glory to
Sri Manohara Visvasa. Glory to Sri Arjuna Visvasa. Glory to SriGovardhana
Bhandari. All glories to Sri Valakadasa Vairagi Thakura, SriGaurangadasa
Vairagi, Sri Viharidasa Vairagi Thakura, Sri Gokuldasa Vairagi, SriPrasada dasa
Vairagi. There is no limit in describing the qualities of all theseVaisnavas.
Their fame spread all over the world. I desire to worship them andsing their
glories without any attraction towards material pleasure.
Now I give further description of the branches and twigs ofNarottama dasa
Thakura. Ramakrsna Acarya has a big branch having many disciples.Kanakalatika
is the wife of Sri Acarya. She is a devoted wife and a greatdevotee of Krsna.
Radhakrsnacarya, the eldest son of Acarya died at an early age.Radhakrsna
Cakravarti of Vetula is a great devotee. Sri Svarupa Cakravarti ofHusanapura
is a sincere servant of Sri Govinda. Sri Gopala Cakravarti ofKumarapura whose
topic is on everyone's lips. There is no limit of the branches andtwigs to whom
Sri Krsna Caitanya is the life.
Ganganarayana is the branch of Sri Thakura Mahasaya. Ganganarayanagot the
title of Sri Thakura Cakravarti. Everyone used to sing his gloryeven today in
Vrndavana. He has many branches and twigs of disciples. Narahari,wife of Sri
Cakravarti is the mother of Visnupriya. Krsnapriya, daughter ofVisnupriya is
favored by Sri Radharani of Sri Radha Kunda. Sri Krsna CaranaCakravarti is the
youngest son of Ramakrsna Acarya. How can I sing the glory of SriKrsnacarana.
I am trying to present a brief account of his branches and twigs.Rama Krsna
and Ganganarayana are the same entity. Sri Thakura Cakravarti hasno son. Acarya
realising his desire, favored Ganganarayana by giving a son. Andthat son is
Sri Krsnacarana, son of Sri Acarya. Sri Krsnacarana became a greatscholar in
a short time. Sri Madhusudana Cakravarti is another branch to whomGanganarayan is the life. Raghudeva Cakravarti is a great devoteeof Sri Cakravarti Thakura.
I restrain myself from narrating all the branches and twigs of SriCakravarti
Thakura. The branches of Sri Mahasaya's disciples are all abodes ofexemplary
qualities who were always absorbed in the joy of sankirtana. I haveno capacity
to descibe the transcendental pastimes of Sri Thakura Mahasaya,therefore I am
fully dependent on the mercy of the Vaishnava Gosvamis.
Thus listen attentively to the narration of Narottama Vilasa byNarahari.
