I offer my respectful obeisances unto all the Vaisnava devotees of the Lord. They are just like desire trees who can fulfill the desires of everyone, and they are full of compassion for the fallen conditioned souls.
Lord Caitanya used to come here to Sridhara's house daily to collect vegetables, bananas and banana flowers. In fact, He would not eat unless he received vegetables and bananas from Sridhara.
After Caitanya Mahaprabhu had chastised the Kazi (magistrate), He carried on Sankirtan again and went to Sridhar's house. When He reached his house, He saw at the gate an iron pot, which was dented and very dirty and full of impure water, but still, to set an example that a Vaisnava's property and foodstuffs are always absolutely pure, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu drunk from that pot. When Sridhara saw this, he simply cried out, "Oh! He has not come here to rest, He has come to kill me. What is He doing taking water from that pot?" Caitanya Mahaprabhu quoted a sloka from the Padma Purana which says that if one wants to be purified he must simply beg for the food of the Vaisnava; thus he can be purified of any sin.
This place is known as 'Kirtana-Vistama-sthama' (resting place). The area around Sridhara's house is non-different from Madhuvan in Vrindavan.
The cowherd boy named Kusumasava (Madhu-mangala), who joked with Lord Krsna and made him laugh in Vrajabhumi, appeared in Lord Caitanya's pastimes as the learned brahmana kolaveca Sridhara, who sold plantain-leaf cups for His livelihood. (Gaura-gnanoddesa-dipika 133)
Daily Caitanya Mahaprabhu would visit Sridhar and help himself to the bananas growing in his garden. Sridhara would chastise him, telling him, "I am a poor brahmin, and I am not in a position to give charity to a greedy brahmin like you. I have to use the proceeds of these bananas and flowers to worship Mother Ganga." Lord Caitanya would reply, "I am the husband of Ganga, if you worship me she will become very happy." Sridhara would reply, "Are you not afraid of God that you commit these offences of claiming to be the husband of Mother Ganga?" Lord Caitanya would tell him that one day you will get proof of this.
Later in Srivasa's house Lord Caitanya revealed His original form to Sridhara.
Sridhara set the perfect example for all Vaisnavas by spending half of what he earned on the worship of Mother Ganga. Sridhara would also daily take banana flowers to Mother Sachi for her to cook for Lord Caitanya.
Close to Sridhara's garden is the place where Lord Balarama killed the Mayasura demon. This place is called Maya Mori: it is the same as Talavan in Vrindavan.
One day the Kazi (Moslem magistrate) went to the house of Srivasa Acarya and forcibly had the Kirtan stopped. In the process one of the mridangas was broken. That night while the Kazi was taking rest, the Lord appeared in His form as Nrisimhadeva and started to rip his chest, but, after only making a few scratches, the Lord stopped and told him, "Today you did not cause so much trouble, so I will allow you to live but if you again try to interfere with the Sankirtan movement, then I will destroy you along with your dynasty."
When the devotees of Caitanya Mahaprabhu informed the Lord of the harassment of the Kazi, He became very angry and organised a mass Sankirtan. That night the devotees formed many groups and performed Sankirtan throughout the streets of Navadvipa, wandering through every area and eventually arriving at the house of the Kazi. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu met with the Kazi and had a discussion with him and proved to him on the strength of sastra (scripture) that the highest form of worship was to develop love for Radha-Krsna. After this the Kazi surrendered to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and promised that in the future all of his descendants would respect the Sankirtan movement and in no way would try to interrupt it.
At this place there is a very large Champa tree which is more than 400 years old.
This place is considered to be non-different from Mathura and Kazi is considered to be non-different from Kamsa in Krsna's pastimes. In the same way Kamsa is related to Krsna as His maternal uncle, so the Kazi was related to Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Just like Kamsa, the Kazi was crouched down with fear. However, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu gave him 'prema' as his liberation and made the Kazi a great devotee. The very fortunate hear this story of his liberation.
Just see the difference between Vraja Tattva and Navadvipa Tattva. The offenders of Krsna got liberation by merging into the Brahman effulgence, whereas the offenders in Navadvipa received love of Godhead. Therefore, Gaura-Lila may be considered the highest of all.
Gaura Nama, His form and His qualities do not consider offences, for these offences are easily overcome. If the devotee has some offence in his heart, Krsna's Name and Krsna's form will only have an effect after a long time. However, with Gaura Nama and Gaura Dhama one quickly gets 'prema'. Offences are no obstacle, because here the devotees can conquer over them easily.
One who sees the Samadhi of the Kazi is finished with birth and death. The Kazi's Samadhi is on the border of Antardvipa and the rest of the Kazi nagar is within Simanta dvipa.
The land which falls between the Ganga and Sarasvati near their sangam (meeting place) up to the samadhi of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Svami Prabhupada is known as Isodan van. It was here that Nandan Acharya had his house and lands.
I bow down to the Supreme Lord Nityananda Prabhu, who is the awarder of the highest joy to all, bestower of the holy name and the crest-jewel of all paramahamsa mendicants. May Sri Nityananda Rama be the object of my constant remembrance. Sankarsana, Sesa Naga and the Vishnus who live in the karana, Garbha and Ksira oceans are His plenary portions and the portions of His plenary portions. I surrender unto the lotus feet of Sri Nityananda Rama, who is known as Sankarsana in the midst of the Caturvyuha. Who possesses full opulence and resides in Vaikuntha loka far beyond the material creation. (Caitanya-caritamrta Adi 1-7,8,9)
The following story is narrated in the Caitanya Bhagabata: In the village of Ekacakra lived a brahmana couple. Hadai Pandit and his wife Padmavati. Lord Nityananda appeared in their home. For some days Lord Nityananda performed His pastimes in Hadai Pandit's house, then He decided to quit the home, but He could not do so, because He thought it would upset His parents. If Nityananda Prabhu disappeared for a moment, His mother would become restless. One second to her would seem like thousands of years. Not even for one second would Hadai Pandit part from his son. If Hadai Pandit went to a friend's house or to take bath, he could not go unaccompanied by Nityananda Prabhu. He was like a shadow to him. Wherever he went, he kept on looking behind to see if Nityananda was following him. In this way, wherever he went, he took his son with him, for he could not live a second without him.
Nityananda Prabhu understood the situation and He understood His duties as a son, so He carried them out. Fortunately, one day, a sannyasi came to their house. Hadai Pandit offered him all respect and requested him to stay the night. The Sannyasi happily accepted the invitation and spent the night reciting stories from Krsna's pastimes. In the morning, before departing, the Sannyasi informed Hadai Pandit he wanted to request one thing from him. Hadai Pandit asked him, what is it that you require?" At this the Sannyasi replied, "I am going on pilgrimage to all the holy places, but I have no brahmachari assistant. Why don't you allow your son, Nityananda, to accompany me for a few days. I will look after Him like my own son. Besides this, He will gain great merit from visiting all the holy places.
Hadai Pandit said: "This Sannyasi has not asked for my son, he has asked for my soul! But now if I refuse, all of us will be ruined." In the olden days Visvamitra asked for Ramachandra, who was the life and soul of King Dasaratha. The Puranas state that without Rama, King Dasaratha could not live. "O my dear Krsna, I am in a great dilemma. Please help me out." He went to enquire from his wife. Padmavati, his faithful wife, the mother of the universe, said, "Prabhu, your wish is my wish." Hadai Pandit hung down his head, approached the Sannyasi, handed over his son and started to cry. The Sannyasi and Nityananda left, thus Nityananda Prabhu renounced the home.
Hadai Pandit and Padmavati are non-different from King Dasaratha and Kausalya, and Nityananda Rama is non-different from Laksman. When Nityananda left, Hadai Pandit fell down unconscious. Who can describe the lamentation and grief Hadai Pandit felt? He lamented so bitterly that even wood and stone started to melt. For months he did not eat anything. He simply survived due to Caitanya Mahaprabhu's influence. All these Pastimes are being performed for the benefit of the conditioned souls. By hearing them, even the hardest heart will be melted.
Nityananda Prabhu travelled to all the holy places and eventually went to Mathura and resided there for some time. While in Vraja Dham, Nityananda Prabhu would simply wander from forest to forest, searching for His younger brother, Krsna; to whomever He would meet, He would simply ask: "Where is Krsna? Have you seen Krsna?" Who can understand this Personality? He simply called the name of Krsna day and night and ate nothing. If milk was offered to Him, He would take a little, but He would never ask for any. In this way, Nityananda Prabhu was living in Vrindavan.
At the same time, Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu was engrossed in the pleasure of Sankirtan, but Nityananda Prabhu's absence was upsetting Him very much. Nityananda Prabhu could understand this and He left immediately for Navadvipa. When he arrived in Navadvipa, He stayed in the house of Nandan Acarya, thinking that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would understand He was there. "Thus He will find Me by Himself," thought Nityananda Prabhu. He instructed Nandan Acarya not to inform anyone of His presence. Nandan Acarya was overjoyed to receive Nityananda Prabhu. He entertained Him in every way and made Him stay as comfortable as possible. Whoever hears of Nityananda's arrival in Navadvipa will attain the treasure of love.
After Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu had finished His worship of Vishnu, He met with the Vaisnavas. He told everybody, "Today I had an extraordinary dream. There was a chariot, and that chariot came and stopped outside My house. On the chariot was a heighy man, who held a fat stick on His shoulder. His gait was not too steady and He was dressed in green. In His left hand was a broken vessel, and His head was covered with a green cloth. In His left ear was a strange earring and His character was just like Sri Balarama. "Isn't this Nimai Pandit'a house?" He asked over and over again. Almost twenty times He repeated the same question. He had a magnetic, powerful personality. I have never seen such a personality before. I asked Him, 'who are you?' He laughed and said, 'I am your brother! Tomorrow we shall meet.' I was very happy upon hearing these words and I thought, "Yes, I am His brother." After having narrated this story, Caitanya Mahaprabhu entered into great ecstasy in the mood of Lord Balarama.
After some time, Caitanya Mahaprabhu became normal again and informed them, "I previously told you that you would have the chance to meet a great personality. Haridas, Srivas, go immediately, go and find out what great personality has come to Navadvipa." Haridas and Srivas searched all over Navadvipa, throughout the whole day, but were unable to find any great personality. So they returned to Caitanya Mahaprabhu and informed Him that they had searched everywhere, but nowhere could they find the great personality. Upon hearing this, Mahaprabhu simply smiled. He said, 'Come with me, we shall see where He is." Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu knew everything, so, accompanied by His devotees, He went straight to the house of Nandan Acarya. Arriving there, everyone saw a great personality. His aura was as bright as millions of suns. He arose and embraced His younger brother, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
Vrindavana dasa Thakur warns that one who worships Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, but fails to worship Sri Nityananda Prabhu, is sure to visit the house of Yamaraja after death.
Prithu Maharaja, by virtue of his affectionate glances and beautiful moon like face, which is always smiling with great affection for the citizens, will enhance everyone's peaceful life. This king, this protector of the citizens, is an extraordinary king and is equal to the Prajapati demigods. For the living facility of all citizens, he will milk the Earth, which is like a cow. Not only that, but he will level the surface of the Earth with the pointed ends of his bow, breaking all the hills exactly as King Indra, the heavenly king, breaks mountains with his powerful thunderbolt.
When King Prithu was travelling over the planet along with his associates, flattening all the high places, thus making the Earth level, he came to this place. At this spot, his associates came to him and informed him that there was a great light emanating from the earth. King Prithu simply smiled to himself, understanding that this is the place where Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would appear in the future. He ordered them to dig a large lake here. This lake later became known as Ballal Dighi.
When the Sena dynasty was ruling Bengal, they had their capital at this place. King Laksman Sena had this Kunda dug out and enlarged, and he renamed this Kunda after his father, King Ballal Sena. The water of this Kunda is very pure, and whoever drinks it will feel great bliss. On the bank of this Kunda, Srila Jayadeva Gosvami composed the Dasavatara Stotram.
Murari Gupta's House
The following story is narrated in the Caitanya Bhagavata: One day Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu heard a sloka describing the Varaha incarnation. Upon hearing it, He simply roared and ran off to Murari Gupta's house. When Caitanya Mahaprabhu arrived at Murari Gupta's house, Murari Gupta received Him with great warmth and affection. Caitanya Mahaprabhu held the same love for Murari Gupta as Lord Ramacandra held for Hanuman. Murari Gupta was, in fact, an incarnation of Hanuman.
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu called out loudly: Sukar! Sukar! (the name of the boar incarnation). Murari stood gazing here and there in amazement. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu entered into the Vishnu temple. There was a beautiful bowl full of water. As soon as He saw the bowl, He assumed the form of Varaha (the boar incarnation) and with His divine hooves picked up the bowl and touched it to His lips and, shaking His divine hooves, He roared, "Murari, sing My glories!"
Murari was amazed by the unusual scene. He was unable to speak, and simply stared. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu said, "Why don't you speak up? All of these days you didn't know that I was here." Murari said: "O Prabhu, only You know Your glories. Even Sesa, who has thousands of mouths is unable to sing Your glories completely. O Prabhu, all glorious and wonderful things simply emanate from the pores of Your body. I am simply unable to sing Your glories." Murari Gupta broke down and started weeping with great love.
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu suddenly became very angry at the Vedas: "They sing that I have no arms, I have no legs, I have no eyes; My body is sacred and everything that exists within it: My glories are sung by the great Lord Brahma and Lord Siva. By my touch one becomes pure, and by that person's touch even the holy places become purified. Oh, listen, Murari, I will reveal to you what is hidden within the Vedas: I am the Avatar of this age; it is I who in the past lifted up the Earth from a filthy place. In this incarnation I will propagate the Sankirtan movement and liberate all persons."
At this place there is a small temple with Sita-Rama Deities. This is situated near the bank of Ballal Dighi, to the east of the Yoga-Pitha.
This marks one edge of Antardvipa. The ancestors of King Bhagiratha had performed austerities for many generations to attract the sacred Ganga river to come down to this planet for the purpose of flowing to Ganga Sagara. In bygone ages, the ancestors of King Bhagiratha had offended the great sage, Kapila Muni, who had thus burnt them to ashes simply by his glance. The only way to relieve them from their residence in hell was if the Ganga's transcendental waters were to touch their ashes -- thus they would be able to rise to the higher planets. Though King Bhagiratha's ancestors had failed to please Ganga, King Bhagiratha was successful and managed to bring Ganga down. He went ahead of her in his chariot, thus making a path for her to follow along.
But after King Bhagiratha had reached this place, he noticed that the Ganga was no longer following him. At this, his mind became very perturbed and he started to retrace his tracks. Thus he saw that the Ganga had stopped here at Ganga Nagara. The king fell at her feet and begged her to continue her journey. Gangadevi said: "My dear Bhagiratha, now is the month of Magh and the month of Phalguna is coming. On the full moon of that month, I will follow you again and free your ancestors. This is the appearance place of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and I am simply the water which emanates from His lotus feet. So I wish to stay here and perform penances to please Him. So please wait until that time and then I will gladly follow you".
At this time, Ganga Nagara has become totally unmanifest; the spot where Ganga Nagara once was is now simply an agricultural field situated next to Sridham Mayapura Post Office. The great devotee associates of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Ganga Das and Sanjaya Dasa, lived at this place. Also Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu went to primary school here.
Sri Caitanya Matha (Vraja Pattan)
I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Divine Grace Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, who is very dear to Lord Krsna, having taken shelter of His lotus feet. I offer my respectful obeisances to Sri Varsabhana videvi-dayita dasa who is favoured by Srimati Radharani and who is the ocean of transcendental mercy and the deliverer of the science of Krsna. I offer my respectful obeisances unto you, the personified energy of Sri Caitanya's mercy, who delivers devotional service which is enriched with conjugal love of Radha and Krsna, coming exactly in the line of revelation of Srila Rupa Gosvami. I offer my respectful obeisances unto you, who are personified teachings of Lord Caitanya. You are the deliverer of the fallen souls. You do not tolerate any statement which is against the teachings of devotional service enunciated by Srila Rupa Gosvami.
Here at the house of Sri Chandrasekhara Prabhu, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, along with Advaita Acarya and other associates, would perform plays depicting Sri Krsna's pastimes. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati established Sri Caitanya Math at the same place where Chandrasekhara Prabhu's house formerly was. When Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu decided to accept sannyasa, Sri Chandrasekhara Prabhu was informed of this by Sri Nityananda Prabhu. Therefore, he was also present when Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu accepted sannyasa from Kesava Bharati at Katwa. It was he also who first informed the residents of Navadvipa of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's life; he therefore formed the second branch of the great tree of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
It was at this place that Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur entered into samadhi. His Samadhi temple is situated here. This place is known as Vraja Pattan, the place where Vrindavan is manifested. Throughout Navadvipa the various forest and other places of Vrindavan are manifested, but here also, in this small area of Vraja Pattan, all the holy places of Vrindavan are manifest. By the grace of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, one can see Radha Kunda, Shyama Kunda, Giri Govardhana and Keli Kadamba (the tree from which Krsna jumped into the Kaliya lake). The Deities of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, Sri Gandharvika Giridhari, are also situated here.
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur is the spiritual master of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati established many temples throughout India and preached vigorously. He also established a daily newspaper for the glorification of Lord Krsna. Following in the footsteps of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada established temples throughout the world and translated many Vedic literatures into the English language.
On the banks of Radha Kunda, within the compound of this asrama, is the Samadhi Mandir of Srila Gaura Kishora dasa Babaji Maharaja, the spiritual master of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur. I offer my respectful obeisances unto Gaura Kishora dasa Babaji Maharaja, who is renunciation personified. He is always merged in a feeling of separation and intense love of Krsna.
Srivasa Pandit is an incarnation of Narada Muni. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would come to his house daily and throughout the night He would perform kirtan. This place is nondifferent from the Rasa-sthali in Vrindaban. This place is also known as Khola-bhanga-danga (this story will be narrated later).
One night Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was dancing along with His associates in Srivasa's courtyard. At this time, Srivasa's son died of a disease. All the ladies in the house started to cry, Srivasa Pandit came into the house and, seeing the situation ordered the ladies to stop crying, so they might not disturb Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's dancing. Srivasa told the ladies: if I were to get an opportunity of such a death, my life would be complete; so please, if you must cry, cry mildly. After hearing the words of Srivasa, the ladies stopped crying and Srivasa again went and joined the Lord's dancing.
In due course of time, everyone came to understand that Srivasa's child had died, but no one revealed this externally due to fear of disturbing the Lord's ecstatic dance. After several hours had passed, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu stopped and enquired: Has anything strange happened in this house?" Srivasa replied: "What strange or unfortunate thing could take place when You are present? Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was a little suspicious and again enquired from His associates if anything inauspicious had happened. The elders present there informed the Lord that Srivasa's child had died. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was shocked and fell down in lamentation -- "Why was I not informed about the incident earlier?" The elders replied: "Srivasa did not wish to disturb Your happy dancing".
When they saw that the Lord had become calm, they requested His permission to take the child to perform the cremation ceremony, as the child had been lying dead for 71/2 hours. When they brought the child from the house, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu spoke to the child: "O my dear child, why are you leaving Srivasa's house?" At this the child sat up, to every-one's amazement, and started to speak? O master of the universe, who is whose child and who is whose father? For some time I have appeared in this house, and now my time is up; I must to elsewhere. No one is the controller, but all are controlled by Your energy in the form of Time. Now, taking permission from You, I will carry on to my next destination". As this child became quiet all of the relatives of Srivasa were overwhelmed with ecstatic joy upon hearing the child's words and their lamentation went far away.
This story is narrated in the CAITANYA BHAGAVATA. At this place there are Deities of Panca Tattva and Radha-Krsna. Darshan times: 8.30 - 11 a.m., 3.30 - 8:30 p.m.
Where the ground is very soft and studded with various sparkling jewels… where there are many wonderful varieties of birds and animals… where the trees, vines and flowers shine with unlimited splendour. That Sri Mayapur where Lord Gaurasundar enjoys His youthful pastimes is my very life and soul. (Navadvipa-staka 6)
Yoga Pitha -- In Vrindaban, at the Radha Govinda temple, is situated the Yoga Pitha (meeting place), where Radha Govinda sit on a golden throne, which is in the shape of a lotus. They are surrounded by Their eight Sakhi assistants, who are also assisted by unlimited numbers of assistants. At the Yoga Pitha in Sri Mayapura, Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu is sitting on a jewelled throne, on His right is Lord Nityananda and on His left is Sri Gadadhara. In front, with folded hands, is Sri Advaita, and Srivasa is holding an umbrella over Their heads. On a jewelled platform below Lord Caitanya's is the spiritual master's sitting place. It was at this spot that Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu took birth.
"In this way Lord Krsna came to a decision; simultaneously the time came for the incarnation of the age. At that time Sri Advaita was earnestly worshipping Him; Advaita attracted Him through His loud calls. First Lord Krsna made his parents and elders appear, then Sri Krsna Himself, with the sentiments and bodily complexion of Sri Radhika appeared in Navadvipa on the full moon night, from the womb of Sachimata, which is like the ocean of pure milk. (Caitanya Caritamrta Adi 4.2)
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu appeared in 1486 on the full moon night of Phalguna (March). At the time of His appearance, the moon had been eclipsed; all the residents of Navadvipa were bathing in the river Ganga and were all calling out the Names of Lord Krsna: Hari! Hari! As Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu appeared at the most auspicious moment astrologically, one can understand that He was the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
The house of Sri Jagannatha Misra and Sachimata, the mother and father of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, was lost for many years. About a hundred years ago, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur, the great pioneer of the preaching movement of Krsna consciousness, rediscovered this place. At that time, he established a wonderful temple at this spot and installed Deities of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Laksmi Priya, Visnu Priya (the two wives of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu), and also Deities of Pancha Tattva and Deities of Radha & Krsna. Situated in the back of the compound is a Deity of Nrsimhadeva.
Under a Nim tree, where it is said that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu actually took birth, is a small hut with Deities of Jagannath Misra and Sachimata with baby Caitanya Mahaprabhu in her arms. Next to this hut is a deity of Lord Siva (siva linga) known as ksetra-pal siva, who is non-different from Gopisvara in Vrindaban. Within the main temple darshan of the original Deity of Lord Narayana, which was worshipped by Jagannath Misra. The Deity is approx, 8" high with four arms, holding the symbols of Visnu lotus, disc, club and conch. On either side are His saktis, Laksmi and Bhu, and He is black in colour. The Deity's darshan may be had on request from the Pujaris. Darshan is available from 8.30 to 11 a.m. and 3.30 to 8 p.m.
Here also one can take a dip into the waters of Gaurakunda and cool off the burning fire of material existence, here the benefits of bathing in Radha-kund are easily attained.
Ten Offenses to be Avoided when Visiting the Holy Dham
To have contempt or disrespect towards the guru who is the revealer of the Holy Dham.
To think that the Holy Dham is temporary.
To commit violence towards any of the residents of the Holy Dham, or to any of the pilgrims who come there, or to think that they are ordinary mundane people.
To perform mundane activities while living in the Holy Dham.
Earning money by, and making a business of, deity worship and chanting the Holy Name.
To think that the Holy Dham belongs to some mundane country or provinces such as Bengal or to think that the Dham of the Lord is equal to a Holy place connected with some demigod, or to attempt to measure the area of the Dham.
To commit sinful activities while in the Dham.
To consider Vrindavan and Navadvipa different.
To blaspheme the Sastras which glorify the Holy Dham.
To be faithless and to think that the glories of the Dham are imaginary.
THE DHAMA UNFOLDS
It has been explained by Nityananda Prabhu in his instructions to Jiva Gosvami that when performing parikrama of Navadvipa one should take nikne days (one for each island), starting from Lord Caitanya's birthplace in Antardvipa (Mayapura) after having taken darshana of Jaganatha Misra and Saci-devi, taking the dust of that topmost place on his head and constantly singing the holy names.
sri krsna caitanya prabhu nityananda sri advaita gadadhara srivasadi gaur bhakta vrnda, And the sweet names of Radha-Krsna.
Hare krsna hare krsna krsna krsna hare hare hare rama hare rama rama rama hare hare.
One can offer obeisances to Navadvipa with the following Mantra:
One should visit all of the pastime places of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu in Antardvipa after which one should proceed to Simantadvipa, Godrumadvipa and Madhyadvipa after having taken darshana of these four islands on the eastern bank of the Ganga (river). One can offer obeisances to Mother Ganga with the following mantra:
After one has taken bath in her purifying waters, one can proceed to take darshan of the five islands on the western bank; first Koladvipa and then Ritudvipa, Jahnudvipa, Modharumadvipa and Rudravipa after again taking bath in Mother Ganga's transcendental waters and begging her to purify one from all of the millions of offences, one must have committed while performing parikrama of Lord Caitanya's abode. Again one can cross over to the eastern bank and finish the parikrama by offering obeisances to Lord Caitanya at the yoga-pitha (birth place).
namo aha-vadanyaya krsna-prema-pradaya te krsnay krsna-caitanya-name gaura-tvise namah
"O most munificent incarnation! You are Krsna Himself appearing as Sri Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu. You have assumed the golden colour of Srimati Radharani, and You are widely distributing pure love of Krsna. We offer our respectful obeisances unto You."
Although one can perform parikrama of Navadvipa at any time and receive unlimited transcendental benefit, for maya's influence will cease and the goddess bhukti (material enjoyment) and the goddess mukti (liberation) will beg to be able to perform a little service to that fortunate devotee.
That unlimitedly fortunate devotee who performs parikrama in the month of phalguna (March) starting on the sukla saptami (the seventh day of the bright half of the month) and finishing on the purnima (full moon) will attain eternal service at the lotus feet of Lord Caitanya and thus be able to enter into the transcendental pastimes of Radha-Krsna in Vrndabana which is the very reason for the manifestation of Navadvipa.
Radha-Krsna appeared in the Form of Lord Caitanya to distribute the sweetness of Their Vraja Vrndavana pastimes, and Radha-Krsna's eternal Madhurya-Dhama (Vraja), the reservoir of unlimited sweetness, has appeared as Audarya-Dhama (Navadvipa), the distributor of that Rasa (sweetness).
Now after having offered obeisances to Nityananda Prabhu, Who is non-different to Lord Balarama, the original spiritual master, and eternal guide of all living beings--
nityanandam aham naumi sarvananda-kjaram param hari-nama-pradam devam avadhuta-siromanim
"I bow down to the Supreme Lord Nityananda Prabhu, who is the awarder of the highest joy to all, the bestower of the holy name and the crest jewel of all paramahamsa mendicants."
We will now attempt to describe a few of the major pastime places in Navadvipa.
Replies
Sridhara Angam (Sridhara's House)
I offer my respectful obeisances unto all the Vaisnava devotees of the Lord. They are just like desire trees who can fulfill the desires of everyone, and they are full of compassion for the fallen conditioned souls.
Lord Caitanya used to come here to Sridhara's house daily to collect vegetables, bananas and banana flowers. In fact, He would not eat unless he received vegetables and bananas from Sridhara.
After Caitanya Mahaprabhu had chastised the Kazi (magistrate), He carried on Sankirtan again and went to Sridhar's house. When He reached his house, He saw at the gate an iron pot, which was dented and very dirty and full of impure water, but still, to set an example that a Vaisnava's property and foodstuffs are always absolutely pure, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu drunk from that pot. When Sridhara saw this, he simply cried out, "Oh! He has not come here to rest, He has come to kill me. What is He doing taking water from that pot?" Caitanya Mahaprabhu quoted a sloka from the Padma Purana which says that if one wants to be purified he must simply beg for the food of the Vaisnava; thus he can be purified of any sin.
This place is known as 'Kirtana-Vistama-sthama' (resting place). The area around Sridhara's house is non-different from Madhuvan in Vrindavan.
The cowherd boy named Kusumasava (Madhu-mangala), who joked with Lord Krsna and made him laugh in Vrajabhumi, appeared in Lord Caitanya's pastimes as the learned brahmana kolaveca Sridhara, who sold plantain-leaf cups for His livelihood.
(Gaura-gnanoddesa-dipika 133)
Daily Caitanya Mahaprabhu would visit Sridhar and help himself to the bananas growing in his garden. Sridhara would chastise him, telling him, "I am a poor brahmin, and I am not in a position to give charity to a greedy brahmin like you. I have to use the proceeds of these bananas and flowers to worship Mother Ganga." Lord Caitanya would reply, "I am the husband of Ganga, if you worship me she will become very happy." Sridhara would reply, "Are you not afraid of God that you commit these offences of claiming to be the husband of Mother Ganga?" Lord Caitanya would tell him that one day you will get proof of this.
Later in Srivasa's house Lord Caitanya revealed His original form to Sridhara.
Sridhara set the perfect example for all Vaisnavas by spending half of what he earned on the worship of Mother Ganga. Sridhara would also daily take banana flowers to Mother Sachi for her to cook for Lord Caitanya.
Close to Sridhara's garden is the place where Lord Balarama killed the Mayasura demon. This place is called Maya Mori: it is the same as Talavan in Vrindavan.
Kazi's Samadhi
One day the Kazi (Moslem magistrate) went to the house of Srivasa Acarya and forcibly had the Kirtan stopped. In the process one of the mridangas was broken. That night while the Kazi was taking rest, the Lord appeared in His form as Nrisimhadeva and started to rip his chest, but, after only making a few scratches, the Lord stopped and told him, "Today you did not cause so much trouble, so I will allow you to live but if you again try to interfere with the Sankirtan movement, then I will destroy you along with your dynasty."
When the devotees of Caitanya Mahaprabhu informed the Lord of the harassment of the Kazi, He became very angry and organised a mass Sankirtan. That night the devotees formed many groups and performed Sankirtan throughout the streets of Navadvipa, wandering through every area and eventually arriving at the house of the Kazi. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu met with the Kazi and had a discussion with him and proved to him on the strength of sastra (scripture) that the highest form of worship was to develop love for Radha-Krsna. After this the Kazi surrendered to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and promised that in the future all of his descendants would respect the Sankirtan movement and in no way would try to interrupt it.
At this place there is a very large Champa tree which is more than 400 years old.
This place is considered to be non-different from Mathura and Kazi is considered to be non-different from Kamsa in Krsna's pastimes. In the same way Kamsa is related to Krsna as His maternal uncle, so the Kazi was related to Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Just like Kamsa, the Kazi was crouched down with fear. However, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu gave him 'prema' as his liberation and made the Kazi a great devotee. The very fortunate hear this story of his liberation.
Just see the difference between Vraja Tattva and Navadvipa Tattva. The offenders of Krsna got liberation by merging into the Brahman effulgence, whereas the offenders in Navadvipa received love of Godhead. Therefore, Gaura-Lila may be considered the highest of all.
Gaura Nama, His form and His qualities do not consider offences, for these offences are easily overcome. If the devotee has some offence in his heart, Krsna's Name and Krsna's form will only have an effect after a long time. However, with Gaura Nama and Gaura Dhama one quickly gets 'prema'. Offences are no obstacle, because here the devotees can conquer over them easily.
One who sees the Samadhi of the Kazi is finished with birth and death. The Kazi's Samadhi is on the border of Antardvipa and the rest of the Kazi nagar is within Simanta dvipa.
ANTARDVIPA (MAYAPURA)
Nandan Acharya's House
The land which falls between the Ganga and Sarasvati near their sangam (meeting place) up to the samadhi of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Svami Prabhupada is known as Isodan van. It was here that Nandan Acharya had his house and lands.
I bow down to the Supreme Lord Nityananda Prabhu, who is the awarder of the highest joy to all, bestower of the holy name and the crest-jewel of all paramahamsa mendicants. May Sri Nityananda Rama be the object of my constant remembrance. Sankarsana, Sesa Naga and the Vishnus who live in the karana, Garbha and Ksira oceans are His plenary portions and the portions of His plenary portions. I surrender unto the lotus feet of Sri Nityananda Rama, who is known as Sankarsana in the midst of the Caturvyuha. Who possesses full opulence and resides in Vaikuntha loka far beyond the material creation. (Caitanya-caritamrta Adi 1-7,8,9)
The following story is narrated in the Caitanya Bhagabata: In the village of Ekacakra lived a brahmana couple. Hadai Pandit and his wife Padmavati. Lord Nityananda appeared in their home. For some days Lord Nityananda performed His pastimes in Hadai Pandit's house, then He decided to quit the home, but He could not do so, because He thought it would upset His parents. If Nityananda Prabhu disappeared for a moment, His mother would become restless. One second to her would seem like thousands of years. Not even for one second would Hadai Pandit part from his son. If Hadai Pandit went to a friend's house or to take bath, he could not go unaccompanied by Nityananda Prabhu. He was like a shadow to him. Wherever he went, he kept on looking behind to see if Nityananda was following him. In this way, wherever he went, he took his son with him, for he could not live a second without him.
Nityananda Prabhu understood the situation and He understood His duties as a son, so He carried them out. Fortunately, one day, a sannyasi came to their house. Hadai Pandit offered him all respect and requested him to stay the night. The Sannyasi happily accepted the invitation and spent the night reciting stories from Krsna's pastimes. In the morning, before departing, the Sannyasi informed Hadai Pandit he wanted to request one thing from him. Hadai Pandit asked him, what is it that you require?" At this the Sannyasi replied, "I am going on pilgrimage to all the holy places, but I have no brahmachari assistant. Why don't you allow your son, Nityananda, to accompany me for a few days. I will look after Him like my own son. Besides this, He will gain great merit from visiting all the holy places.
Hadai Pandit said: "This Sannyasi has not asked for my son, he has asked for my soul! But now if I refuse, all of us will be ruined." In the olden days Visvamitra asked for Ramachandra, who was the life and soul of King Dasaratha. The Puranas state that without Rama, King Dasaratha could not live. "O my dear Krsna, I am in a great dilemma. Please help me out." He went to enquire from his wife. Padmavati, his faithful wife, the mother of the universe, said, "Prabhu, your wish is my wish." Hadai Pandit hung down his head, approached the Sannyasi, handed over his son and started to cry. The Sannyasi and Nityananda left, thus Nityananda Prabhu renounced the home.
Hadai Pandit and Padmavati are non-different from King Dasaratha and Kausalya, and Nityananda Rama is non-different from Laksman. When Nityananda left, Hadai Pandit fell down unconscious. Who can describe the lamentation and grief Hadai Pandit felt? He lamented so bitterly that even wood and stone started to melt. For months he did not eat anything. He simply survived due to Caitanya Mahaprabhu's influence. All these Pastimes are being performed for the benefit of the conditioned souls. By hearing them, even the hardest heart will be melted.
ANTARDVIPA (MAYAPURA)
Nandan Acharya's House (Continued)
Nityananda Prabhu travelled to all the holy places and eventually went to Mathura and resided there for some time. While in Vraja Dham, Nityananda Prabhu would simply wander from forest to forest, searching for His younger brother, Krsna; to whomever He would meet, He would simply ask: "Where is Krsna? Have you seen Krsna?" Who can understand this Personality? He simply called the name of Krsna day and night and ate nothing. If milk was offered to Him, He would take a little, but He would never ask for any. In this way, Nityananda Prabhu was living in Vrindavan.
At the same time, Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu was engrossed in the pleasure of Sankirtan, but Nityananda Prabhu's absence was upsetting Him very much. Nityananda Prabhu could understand this and He left immediately for Navadvipa. When he arrived in Navadvipa, He stayed in the house of Nandan Acarya, thinking that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would understand He was there. "Thus He will find Me by Himself," thought Nityananda Prabhu. He instructed Nandan Acarya not to inform anyone of His presence. Nandan Acarya was overjoyed to receive Nityananda Prabhu. He entertained Him in every way and made Him stay as comfortable as possible. Whoever hears of Nityananda's arrival in Navadvipa will attain the treasure of love.
After Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu had finished His worship of Vishnu, He met with the Vaisnavas. He told everybody, "Today I had an extraordinary dream. There was a chariot, and that chariot came and stopped outside My house. On the chariot was a heighy man, who held a fat stick on His shoulder. His gait was not too steady and He was dressed in green. In His left hand was a broken vessel, and His head was covered with a green cloth. In His left ear was a strange earring and His character was just like Sri Balarama. "Isn't this Nimai Pandit'a house?" He asked over and over again. Almost twenty times He repeated the same question. He had a magnetic, powerful personality. I have never seen such a personality before. I asked Him, 'who are you?' He laughed and said, 'I am your brother! Tomorrow we shall meet.' I was very happy upon hearing these words and I thought, "Yes, I am His brother." After having narrated this story, Caitanya Mahaprabhu entered into great ecstasy in the mood of Lord Balarama.
After some time, Caitanya Mahaprabhu became normal again and informed them, "I previously told you that you would have the chance to meet a great personality. Haridas, Srivas, go immediately, go and find out what great personality has come to Navadvipa." Haridas and Srivas searched all over Navadvipa, throughout the whole day, but were unable to find any great personality. So they returned to Caitanya Mahaprabhu and informed Him that they had searched everywhere, but nowhere could they find the great personality. Upon hearing this, Mahaprabhu simply smiled. He said, 'Come with me, we shall see where He is." Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu knew everything, so, accompanied by His devotees, He went straight to the house of Nandan Acarya. Arriving there, everyone saw a great personality. His aura was as bright as millions of suns. He arose and embraced His younger brother, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
Vrindavana dasa Thakur warns that one who worships Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, but fails to worship Sri Nityananda Prabhu, is sure to visit the house of Yamaraja after death.
ANTARDVIPA (MAYAPURA)
Prithu Kunda (Ballal Dighi)
Prithu Maharaja, by virtue of his affectionate glances and beautiful moon like face, which is always smiling with great affection for the citizens, will enhance everyone's peaceful life. This king, this protector of the citizens, is an extraordinary king and is equal to the Prajapati demigods. For the living facility of all citizens, he will milk the Earth, which is like a cow. Not only that, but he will level the surface of the Earth with the pointed ends of his bow, breaking all the hills exactly as King Indra, the heavenly king, breaks mountains with his powerful thunderbolt.
When King Prithu was travelling over the planet along with his associates, flattening all the high places, thus making the Earth level, he came to this place. At this spot, his associates came to him and informed him that there was a great light emanating from the earth. King Prithu simply smiled to himself, understanding that this is the place where Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would appear in the future. He ordered them to dig a large lake here. This lake later became known as Ballal Dighi.
When the Sena dynasty was ruling Bengal, they had their capital at this place. King Laksman Sena had this Kunda dug out and enlarged, and he renamed this Kunda after his father, King Ballal Sena. The water of this Kunda is very pure, and whoever drinks it will feel great bliss. On the bank of this Kunda, Srila Jayadeva Gosvami composed the Dasavatara Stotram.
Murari Gupta's House
The following story is narrated in the Caitanya Bhagavata: One day Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu heard a sloka describing the Varaha incarnation. Upon hearing it, He simply roared and ran off to Murari Gupta's house. When Caitanya Mahaprabhu arrived at Murari Gupta's house, Murari Gupta received Him with great warmth and affection. Caitanya Mahaprabhu held the same love for Murari Gupta as Lord Ramacandra held for Hanuman. Murari Gupta was, in fact, an incarnation of Hanuman.
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu called out loudly: Sukar! Sukar! (the name of the boar incarnation). Murari stood gazing here and there in amazement. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu entered into the Vishnu temple. There was a beautiful bowl full of water. As soon as He saw the bowl, He assumed the form of Varaha (the boar incarnation) and with His divine hooves picked up the bowl and touched it to His lips and, shaking His divine hooves, He roared, "Murari, sing My glories!"
Murari was amazed by the unusual scene. He was unable to speak, and simply stared. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu said, "Why don't you speak up? All of these days you didn't know that I was here." Murari said: "O Prabhu, only You know Your glories. Even Sesa, who has thousands of mouths is unable to sing Your glories completely. O Prabhu, all glorious and wonderful things simply emanate from the pores of Your body. I am simply unable to sing Your glories." Murari Gupta broke down and started weeping with great love.
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu suddenly became very angry at the Vedas: "They sing that I have no arms, I have no legs, I have no eyes; My body is sacred and everything that exists within it: My glories are sung by the great Lord Brahma and Lord Siva. By my touch one becomes pure, and by that person's touch even the holy places become purified. Oh, listen, Murari, I will reveal to you what is hidden within the Vedas: I am the Avatar of this age; it is I who in the past lifted up the Earth from a filthy place. In this incarnation I will propagate the Sankirtan movement and liberate all persons."
At this place there is a small temple with Sita-Rama Deities. This is situated near the bank of Ballal Dighi, to the east of the Yoga-Pitha.
ANTARDVIPA (MAYAPURA)
Ganga Nagara
This marks one edge of Antardvipa. The ancestors of King Bhagiratha had performed austerities for many generations to attract the sacred Ganga river to come down to this planet for the purpose of flowing to Ganga Sagara. In bygone ages, the ancestors of King Bhagiratha had offended the great sage, Kapila Muni, who had thus burnt them to ashes simply by his glance. The only way to relieve them from their residence in hell was if the Ganga's transcendental waters were to touch their ashes -- thus they would be able to rise to the higher planets. Though King Bhagiratha's ancestors had failed to please Ganga, King Bhagiratha was successful and managed to bring Ganga down. He went ahead of her in his chariot, thus making a path for her to follow along.
But after King Bhagiratha had reached this place, he noticed that the Ganga was no longer following him. At this, his mind became very perturbed and he started to retrace his tracks. Thus he saw that the Ganga had stopped here at Ganga Nagara. The king fell at her feet and begged her to continue her journey. Gangadevi said: "My dear Bhagiratha, now is the month of Magh and the month of Phalguna is coming. On the full moon of that month, I will follow you again and free your ancestors. This is the appearance place of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and I am simply the water which emanates from His lotus feet. So I wish to stay here and perform penances to please Him. So please wait until that time and then I will gladly follow you".
At this time, Ganga Nagara has become totally unmanifest; the spot where Ganga Nagara once was is now simply an agricultural field situated next to Sridham Mayapura Post Office. The great devotee associates of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Ganga Das and Sanjaya Dasa, lived at this place. Also Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu went to primary school here.
Sri Caitanya Matha (Vraja Pattan)
I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Divine Grace Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, who is very dear to Lord Krsna, having taken shelter of His lotus feet. I offer my respectful obeisances to Sri Varsabhana videvi-dayita dasa who is favoured by Srimati Radharani and who is the ocean of transcendental mercy and the deliverer of the science of Krsna. I offer my respectful obeisances unto you, the personified energy of Sri Caitanya's mercy, who delivers devotional service which is enriched with conjugal love of Radha and Krsna, coming exactly in the line of revelation of Srila Rupa Gosvami. I offer my respectful obeisances unto you, who are personified teachings of Lord Caitanya. You are the deliverer of the fallen souls. You do not tolerate any statement which is against the teachings of devotional service enunciated by Srila Rupa Gosvami.
Here at the house of Sri Chandrasekhara Prabhu, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, along with Advaita Acarya and other associates, would perform plays depicting Sri Krsna's pastimes. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati established Sri Caitanya Math at the same place where Chandrasekhara Prabhu's house formerly was. When Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu decided to accept sannyasa, Sri Chandrasekhara Prabhu was informed of this by Sri Nityananda Prabhu. Therefore, he was also present when Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu accepted sannyasa from Kesava Bharati at Katwa. It was he also who first informed the residents of Navadvipa of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's life; he therefore formed the second branch of the great tree of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
It was at this place that Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur entered into samadhi. His Samadhi temple is situated here. This place is known as Vraja Pattan, the place where Vrindavan is manifested. Throughout Navadvipa the various forest and other places of Vrindavan are manifested, but here also, in this small area of Vraja Pattan, all the holy places of Vrindavan are manifest. By the grace of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, one can see Radha Kunda, Shyama Kunda, Giri Govardhana and Keli Kadamba (the tree from which Krsna jumped into the Kaliya lake). The Deities of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, Sri Gandharvika Giridhari, are also situated here.
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur is the spiritual master of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati established many temples throughout India and preached vigorously. He also established a daily newspaper for the glorification of Lord Krsna. Following in the footsteps of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada established temples throughout the world and translated many Vedic literatures into the English language.
On the banks of Radha Kunda, within the compound of this asrama, is the Samadhi Mandir of Srila Gaura Kishora dasa Babaji Maharaja, the spiritual master of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur. I offer my respectful obeisances unto Gaura Kishora dasa Babaji Maharaja, who is renunciation personified. He is always merged in a feeling of separation and intense love of Krsna.
ANTARDVIPA (MAYAPURA)
Srivasangam (Srivasa's House)
Srivasa Pandit is an incarnation of Narada Muni. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu would come to his house daily and throughout the night He would perform kirtan. This place is nondifferent from the Rasa-sthali in Vrindaban. This place is also known as Khola-bhanga-danga (this story will be narrated later).
One night Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was dancing along with His associates in Srivasa's courtyard. At this time, Srivasa's son died of a disease. All the ladies in the house started to cry, Srivasa Pandit came into the house and, seeing the situation ordered the ladies to stop crying, so they might not disturb Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's dancing. Srivasa told the ladies: if I were to get an opportunity of such a death, my life would be complete; so please, if you must cry, cry mildly. After hearing the words of Srivasa, the ladies stopped crying and Srivasa again went and joined the Lord's dancing.
In due course of time, everyone came to understand that Srivasa's child had died, but no one revealed this externally due to fear of disturbing the Lord's ecstatic dance. After several hours had passed, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu stopped and enquired: Has anything strange happened in this house?" Srivasa replied: "What strange or unfortunate thing could take place when You are present? Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was a little suspicious and again enquired from His associates if anything inauspicious had happened. The elders present there informed the Lord that Srivasa's child had died. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu was shocked and fell down in lamentation -- "Why was I not informed about the incident earlier?" The elders replied: "Srivasa did not wish to disturb Your happy dancing".
When they saw that the Lord had become calm, they requested His permission to take the child to perform the cremation ceremony, as the child had been lying dead for 71/2 hours. When they brought the child from the house, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu spoke to the child: "O my dear child, why are you leaving Srivasa's house?" At this the child sat up, to every-one's amazement, and started to speak? O master of the universe, who is whose child and who is whose father? For some time I have appeared in this house, and now my time is up; I must to elsewhere. No one is the controller, but all are controlled by Your energy in the form of Time. Now, taking permission from You, I will carry on to my next destination". As this child became quiet all of the relatives of Srivasa were overwhelmed with ecstatic joy upon hearing the child's words and their lamentation went far away.
This story is narrated in the CAITANYA BHAGAVATA. At this place there are Deities of Panca Tattva and Radha-Krsna. Darshan times: 8.30 - 11 a.m., 3.30 - 8:30 p.m.
ANTARDVIPA (MAYAPURA)
Where the ground is very soft and studded with various sparkling jewels… where there are many wonderful varieties of birds and animals… where the trees, vines and flowers shine with unlimited splendour. That Sri Mayapur where Lord Gaurasundar enjoys His youthful pastimes is my very life and soul.
(Navadvipa-staka 6)
Yoga Pitha -- In Vrindaban, at the Radha Govinda temple, is situated the Yoga Pitha (meeting place), where Radha Govinda sit on a golden throne, which is in the shape of a lotus. They are surrounded by Their eight Sakhi assistants, who are also assisted by unlimited numbers of assistants. At the Yoga Pitha in Sri Mayapura, Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu is sitting on a jewelled throne, on His right is Lord Nityananda and on His left is Sri Gadadhara. In front, with folded hands, is Sri Advaita, and Srivasa is holding an umbrella over Their heads. On a jewelled platform below Lord Caitanya's is the spiritual master's sitting place. It was at this spot that Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu took birth.
"In this way Lord Krsna came to a decision; simultaneously the time came for the incarnation of the age. At that time Sri Advaita was earnestly worshipping Him; Advaita attracted Him through His loud calls. First Lord Krsna made his parents and elders appear, then Sri Krsna Himself, with the sentiments and bodily complexion of Sri Radhika appeared in Navadvipa on the full moon night, from the womb of Sachimata, which is like the ocean of pure milk.
(Caitanya Caritamrta Adi 4.2)
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu appeared in 1486 on the full moon night of Phalguna (March). At the time of His appearance, the moon had been eclipsed; all the residents of Navadvipa were bathing in the river Ganga and were all calling out the Names of Lord Krsna: Hari! Hari! As Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu appeared at the most auspicious moment astrologically, one can understand that He was the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
The house of Sri Jagannatha Misra and Sachimata, the mother and father of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, was lost for many years. About a hundred years ago, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur, the great pioneer of the preaching movement of Krsna consciousness, rediscovered this place. At that time, he established a wonderful temple at this spot and installed Deities of Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Laksmi Priya, Visnu Priya (the two wives of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu), and also Deities of Pancha Tattva and Deities of Radha & Krsna. Situated in the back of the compound is a Deity of Nrsimhadeva.
Under a Nim tree, where it is said that Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu actually took birth, is a small hut with Deities of Jagannath Misra and Sachimata with baby Caitanya Mahaprabhu in her arms. Next to this hut is a deity of Lord Siva (siva linga) known as ksetra-pal siva, who is non-different from Gopisvara in Vrindaban. Within the main temple darshan of the original Deity of Lord Narayana, which was worshipped by Jagannath Misra. The Deity is approx, 8" high with four arms, holding the symbols of Visnu lotus, disc, club and conch. On either side are His saktis, Laksmi and Bhu, and He is black in colour. The Deity's darshan may be had on request from the Pujaris. Darshan is available from 8.30 to 11 a.m. and 3.30 to 8 p.m.
Here also one can take a dip into the waters of Gaurakunda and cool off the burning fire of material existence, here the benefits of bathing in Radha-kund are easily attained.
Ten Offenses to be Avoided when Visiting the Holy Dham
To have contempt or disrespect towards the guru who is the revealer of the Holy Dham.
To think that the Holy Dham is temporary.
To commit violence towards any of the residents of the Holy Dham, or to any of the pilgrims who come there, or to think that they are ordinary mundane people.
To perform mundane activities while living in the Holy Dham.
Earning money by, and making a business of, deity worship and chanting the Holy Name.
To think that the Holy Dham belongs to some mundane country or provinces such as Bengal or to think that the Dham of the Lord is equal to a Holy place connected with some demigod, or to attempt to measure the area of the Dham.
To commit sinful activities while in the Dham.
To consider Vrindavan and Navadvipa different.
To blaspheme the Sastras which glorify the Holy Dham.
To be faithless and to think that the glories of the Dham are imaginary.
THE DHAMA UNFOLDS
It has been explained by Nityananda Prabhu in his instructions to Jiva Gosvami that when performing parikrama of Navadvipa one should take nikne days (one for each island), starting from Lord Caitanya's birthplace in Antardvipa (Mayapura) after having taken darshana of Jaganatha Misra and Saci-devi, taking the dust of that topmost place on his head and constantly singing the holy names.
sri krsna caitanya prabhu nityananda sri advaita
gadadhara srivasadi gaur bhakta vrnda,
And the sweet names of Radha-Krsna.
Hare krsna hare krsna krsna krsna hare hare
hare rama hare rama rama rama hare hare.
One can offer obeisances to Navadvipa with the following Mantra:
navina-sri-bhaktim nava-kanaka-gaurakriti-patim
navaranya-sreni-nava-surasuridyata-valitam
navina-sri radha-hari-rasamayotkirtana-vidhim
navadvipam vande nava-karuna madyannava-rucim
One should visit all of the pastime places of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu in Antardvipa after which one should proceed to Simantadvipa, Godrumadvipa and Madhyadvipa after having taken darshana of these four islands on the eastern bank of the Ganga (river). One can offer obeisances to Mother Ganga with the following mantra:
navadviparama-prakara-kusumamoda-valitam-sfuradratna-sreni-cita-tata sutirthavali-yutam harega-rangasyatula-carana-renuksita-tanum samudyat-premormini tumula hari-sankirtana-rasaih
prabhu-kirday-patrimamrita-rasagatrimrisighata siva-brahmendradidita-mahita-mahatmya-mukharama lasat-kinjalkambhojani-madhupa-garbhoru-karuna maham-vande-ganga-magha-nikara-bhanga-jalakanam
sadyah-pataka-sanhantri-sadhyo-dukha-vinasini
sukhada-moksada ganga-gangaira parama gatih
After one has taken bath in her purifying waters, one can proceed to take darshan of the five islands on the western bank; first Koladvipa and then Ritudvipa, Jahnudvipa, Modharumadvipa and Rudravipa after again taking bath in Mother Ganga's transcendental waters and begging her to purify one from all of the millions of offences, one must have committed while performing parikrama of Lord Caitanya's abode. Again one can cross over to the eastern bank and finish the parikrama by offering obeisances to Lord Caitanya at the yoga-pitha (birth place).
namo aha-vadanyaya krsna-prema-pradaya te
krsnay krsna-caitanya-name gaura-tvise namah
"O most munificent incarnation! You are Krsna Himself appearing as Sri Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu. You have assumed the golden colour of Srimati Radharani, and You are widely distributing pure love of Krsna. We offer our respectful obeisances unto You."
Although one can perform parikrama of Navadvipa at any time and receive unlimited transcendental benefit, for maya's influence will cease and the goddess bhukti (material enjoyment) and the goddess mukti (liberation) will beg to be able to perform a little service to that fortunate devotee.
That unlimitedly fortunate devotee who performs parikrama in the month of phalguna (March) starting on the sukla saptami (the seventh day of the bright half of the month) and finishing on the purnima (full moon) will attain eternal service at the lotus feet of Lord Caitanya and thus be able to enter into the transcendental pastimes of Radha-Krsna in Vrndabana which is the very reason for the manifestation of Navadvipa.
Radha-Krsna appeared in the Form of Lord Caitanya to distribute the sweetness of Their Vraja Vrndavana pastimes, and Radha-Krsna's eternal Madhurya-Dhama (Vraja), the reservoir of unlimited sweetness, has appeared as Audarya-Dhama (Navadvipa), the distributor of that Rasa (sweetness).
Now after having offered obeisances to Nityananda Prabhu, Who is non-different to Lord Balarama, the original spiritual master, and eternal guide of all living beings--
nityanandam aham naumi sarvananda-kjaram param
hari-nama-pradam devam avadhuta-siromanim
"I bow down to the Supreme Lord Nityananda Prabhu, who is the awarder of the highest joy to all, the bestower of the holy name and the crest jewel of all paramahamsa mendicants."
We will now attempt to describe a few of the major pastime places in Navadvipa.
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