All glories to Sri Caitanya
Mahaprabhu, Nityananda Prabhu, Advaita Acharya and all the
devotees. Please bestow your benedictions upon this fallen soul.
All glories to the merciful listeners. Now hear attentively as I
continue this narration.
At an auspicious time, Narottama crossed the Padmavati and entered Sri Kheturi. People from every corner of the village happily flocked to see him. Sri Santosa Datta and others greeted Sri Thakura Mahasaya and arranged accommodations for him in a solitary house. Nevertheless, the house was packed until the evening with enthusiastic villagers eager for his darsana.
In the evening when Narottama was finally alone, he began to think deeply about his devotional service to Sri Krishna. Eventually, by the Lord's arrangement, he finally fell asleep late in the evening. In a dream the son of Saci told him, "Oh Narottama, in the hope of your coming here, I hid Myself in the form of a metal Deity in the house of an influential landlord. Everyone knows him because he is a rich man with many rice-go-downs, but no one will approach these go-downs because they are full of poisonous snakes. In one of the bigger go-downs I have concealed Myself. Quickly go and open the door of that go-down and bring Me to your house." He then advised Narottama to have more Deities made and then vanished after embracing him.
Narottama excitedly woke to find that it was still dark. He spent the rest of the night performing sankirtana and in the morning quickly completed his daily duties. He then asked various persons if they knew of a rich man who had many rice go-downs which were infested with snakes. Everyone knew the man, and Narottama requested them to take him there. Thus Narottama, along with a few others, went to the rich man's house, who was greatly surprised and happy to receive them. Sri Thakura Mahasaya immediately proceeded straight towards the rice go-down. The rich man was horrified, falling at Narottama's feet he begged with folded hands, "Everyone knows that these go-downs are infested with snakes. Many snake tamers have tried to clear them out but their attempts were in vain. Long ago I gave up hope of getting rid of the snakes and, although I lost considerable money, I was forced to close the buildings down. I could not possibly allow you to go inside. Please tell me, what I can do for you?"
Thakura Mahasaya simply laughed and said, "Don't be nervous, I shall clear it out now. I have very important business to attend to within your go-down. Afterwards you will be relieved and happy to see what I will bring out from inside." Saying this, Thakura Mahasaya undauntedly walked towards the go-down, as the spectators trembled in fear. But when the snakes saw Thakura Mahasaya, they immediately left the go-down and went away. In a trance of love, Narottama opened the door and found Navadvipa Candra with His consort. Their bodies were fully decorated with ornaments and Their brilliant beauty was beyond compare. When Narottama picked Them up and lovingly clasped Them to his heart, he was suddenly jolted as if struck by a bolt of lightning.
Everyone was spellbound to see the Deities and began shouting with joy. Someone remarked, "It is not possible for an ordinary human being to do such a thing." Someone else said, "Who can understand him? Because of his presence our village has become blessed." Another person commented, "If we are fortunate enough, 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 along behind him. Upon reaching his house, he placed Sri Gauranga and His consort on a beautiful celestial seat. With unblinking eyes he stared at the Lord crying incessantly. Suddenly a thought came to his mind and began spontaneously singing a beautiful kirtana about the glories of Gauracandra which he had written but had not yet been heard by others. Narottama sang and danced gracefully, putting the Gandharvas to shame. Even the Yavanas and the wicked souls became mad and sang the glories of Gauranga's pastimes. The sound of kirtana covered the entire world and the demigods showered flowers from the heavens. Gandharvas and Kinnaras remarked with amazement, "Who is that extraordinary person who has suddenly manifested this most sublime and beautiful kirtana? Even we 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 the devotees of Caitanya have this type of extraordinary power. All the devotees of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu are worshipable by even the demigods and goddesses." Saying this, they accepting the guise of human beings, came before Narottama and fell at his feet. Thus from that very special day the super-excellent kirtana of Sri Narottama dasa Thakura was inaugurated. On that same day Balarama Vipra and others happily took initiation from Sri Thakura.
With a satisfied heart, Sri Thakura Mahasaya began to serve Gauracandra and Laksmi Visnupriya. He appointed Balarama Vipra and others to take charge of the Deities' service. As ordered in a dream, he also installed five more Deities.
After this he began to feel anxious about not having heard from Srinivasa Acharya 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 come from Yajigrama in such a long time. Now, I am at a loss as to what to do." Just as he was thinking in this way a man suddenly arrived from Yajigrama. With great relief Thakura Mahasaya eagerly inquired about events there. The devotee replied, "Everything is fine there, but Acharya Thakura is always thinking of you and missing your association. He regularly visits Sri Khanda and Kantakanagara, and has also gone to Navadvipa. One day when he was in Khanda, Sri Sarkara Thakura spoke with him and again requested that he marry. This time he could not disobey Thakura. Thus he married and settled at Yajigrama, where many scholars and learned persons regularly visit. Now Ramacandra, a learned son of Sri Ciranjiva Sena of Khanda, has become the disciple of Acharya, and many others have also accepted initiation from him.
He has also successfully distributed all of the books of the Gosvamis. He sent a message to Sri Vrindavana, and one man brought a reply along with more books written by Sri Jiva Gosvami. Acharya has already distributed these new books everywhere.
Recently Srinivasa received a letter from Navadvipa, carrying devastating news. Many of the Lord's associates from Santipura and the surrounding areas, who were suffering intensely in the fire of separation, have now left this world. Hearing about the demise of Sri Sarkara Thakura and Sri Dasa Gadadhara, Srinivasa Acharya sank deep in the ocean of despair. I cannot describe his state of mind. Sometimes we were afraid of his life. One day being unable to bear the pain of separation, he left for Vrindavana without telling anyone.
The Gosvamis were overjoyed to have Srinivasa's company. They happily sat him down and inquired about his well-being and listened intently to the full account of carrying the manuscripts to Gauda. In this way they happily spent four or five days together.
Around that time, Sri Ramacandra Sena came there to meet Srinivasa Acharya. When the Gosvamis were informed of Ramacandra's scholarly capabilities, they conferred upon him the title of "Kaviraja." The Gosvamis eagerly listened as Ramacandra gave a full account of Srinivasa Acharya's marriage.
Thereafter Sri Jiva Gosvami and the others gladly handed over more books to Srinivasa Acharya, appointed four Vrajavasis to accompany him, and bade him farewell. Sri Gopala Bhatta, Lokanatha, and everyone there was extremely sad to see him leave. Srinivasa quickly returned to Gauda and then went to Visnupura to relieve the king. I heard that he would be coming soon to Yajigrama, so I immediately came here to inform you."
During the course of this conversation, two messengers suddenly arrived with another letter for Narottama from Sri Acharya and Narottama happily read aloud, "I left my house, along with my followers, and went to Kancanagaria where I initiated two devotees, who are the bearers of this letter. These two 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 and started for Vudhuri."
Reading this, Narottama exclaimed, "Oh what a wonderful morning for me," and happily escorted the two messengers to the temple of Sri Gaura. There he introduced them to Balarama Pujari, who gladly brought them mahaprasada.
Thakura Mahasaya then went to inspect whether all the preparations for the forthcoming festival were ready or not. He was happy to find that all the go-downs were full of commodities. He then engaged various persons to 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 announced his arrival to Sri Acharya, who happily hurried out of the house and found Narottama standing there. Narottama fell at his feet, and Sri Acharya Thakura embraced him warmly. He then introduced Narottama to Ramacandra and the other devotees.
Sitting in a quiet place they discussed many topics; Srinivasa explained how he had met Ramacandra and initiated him, how his marriage had occurred, how Ramacandra received the title "Kaviraja," his journey from Yajigrama to Vudhuri and how he conferred the title of "Kaviraja" upon Govinda. He then inquired about Narottama's well being, and Narottama gradually explained how Sri Santosa Raya and others had became his disciples, how he rescued the Deity of Sri Gaurahari and arranged to have five more Deities carved and how he was making preparations for the forthcoming great festival. Narottama said, "As soon as I received your letter, I decided to hold the festival on the full-moon day of Phalguna." Thereafter they sat together and compiled a list of devotees to invite to the festival and immediately sent out the invitation letter to all the devotees of Sri Gaurangamandala. Narottama also wrote a letter inviting Syamananda from Utkala. Sri Acharya and Narottama then sat together discussing privately. Later, Sri Acharya put Ramacandra under the care of Narottama.
Within a few days, news of Sri Acharya, Narottama and Ramacandra spread like wildfire. In every corner people were speaking about them: "They have mercifully appeared in this world to save the fallen souls from this hellish material 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 Acharya permitted Narottama to return to Kheturi and instructed Ramacandra and others to accompany him. Upon arriving in Kheturi they immediately went for darsana of Sri Gauranga. There they happily met the disciples of Thakura Mahasaya, who were all abodes of transcendental qualities. Thereafter they inquired about the preparations for the festival and were pleased to find an enormous collection of the necessary commodities. Sri Thakura Mahasaya arranged separate private houses for Ramacandra and the others, where they all waited anxiously for the arrival of Sri Acharya.
Shortly thereafter, when Sri Acharya Thakura, along with Govinda and other devotees, arrived in Kheturi, a wonderful scene ensued as all the Vaisnavas ran out to greet them. They happily escorted Sri Acharya to a beautiful house and then took him for darsana of Sri Gauranga. Upon seeing the Deity along with His consort, Laksmi-Visnupriya, Acharya was filled with ecstatic love. He then saw the other five Deities and was equally overjoyed to see each one. Sri Acharya then inspected the go-downs, but his mind was constantly distracted by thoughts of Sri Syamananda Prabhu. As he was thinking in this way, someone suddenly announced that Syamananda had just arrived from Utkala.
Hearing this, Acharya and his men dashed to welcome him. When Syamananda and his companions entered the house of Sri Acharya, Syamananda could not check his emotions. They embraced, soaking each other with their tears. Acharya then asked about Syamananda's well being. The same emotional scene occurred when Narottama arrived there. Sri Thakura Mahasaya then introduced Syamananda to all the Vaisnavas, and Sri Syamananda in turn introduced Rasikananda and his other devotees. Sridasa, Gokulananda, Vyasa Cakravarti, Ramacandra and Govinda Kaviraja were extremely happy to meet Cattaraja, RamaKrishna, Kumuda and the others. Narottama then took Ramacandra and Syamananda to a beautiful house and said to Rasikananda affectionately, "My dear Rasikananda, try to manage
everything smoothly and peacefully. Be very careful to look after the guests so they do not experience any inconvenience." Rasikananda listened humbly with folded hands and remained quiet. His humility charmed the heart of Narottama.
Thakura Mahasaya and Ramacandra returned to Sri Acharya's place and sent Sri Govinda Kaviraja to take Syamananda to the temple of Sri Gaurasundara. Syamananda was ecstatic to see the beautiful form of the Lord and requested to see the other five Deities. Govinda also showed Syamananda the store rooms. Sri Rasikananda, Purusottama, Sri Kisora and other devotees had brought many items from home to contribute for the festival. Thus their gifts were added to the huge stock. In this way the commodities increased and the store rooms bulged with goods. Syamananda then went to Sri Acharya's place and together they relished discussions about Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. In this way that wonderful day came to a close.
In the morning everyone completed their daily duties and began to wonder why Sri Jahnava Devi had not arrived in Kheturi yet. As they were thinking in this way, a brahmana arrived and reported that Sri Jahnava Iswari had just crossed the River Padmavati. Everyone happily scrambled towards the bank of the river to greet Sri Iswari. The news rapidly spread and people came running from all directions.
After bowing to her feet, Acharya asked about her well-being. She replied, "Upon receiving your letter we were all extremely anxious to come to Kheturi at once." At that time when Jahnava had received the invitation to Kheturi, Krishnadasa Atyudara, the elder brother of Suryadasa Sarkhela, was also present there. Hearing about the forthcoming festival, Srila Raghupati Upadhyaya, Murari, Caitanya, Jnanadasa, Manohara, Kamalakara Pippalai, Sri Jiva Pandita, Madhava Acharya, Nrsimha Caitanya Dasa, Kanai, Sankara, Sri Gaurangadasa, Vrindavana, Sri Minaketana, Ramadasa, Nakari, Sri Balarama and others, bowed to the feet of the two Iswaris and humbly said, "We would also like to go to Kheturi." Hearing this Sri Jahnava happily requested Sri Paramesvara dasa to begin preparations for their journey immediately. On the day of Sri Iswari's departure, many Vaisnavas from distant places came to see Sri Iswari and when they came to know about the festival, they also were eager to go along with her. They enthusiastically rushed back to their houses and began preparing for the journey. For this reason the entire party was held up for some time.
At the time of their departure they suddenly heard a deep voice speaking to them from the sky saying, "Srinivasa and Narottama are extremely dear to Me and are empowered by Me to distribute divine love. I am completely bound by their love. In Kheturi you will all see Me dance in the sankirtana along with My companions. The power of My love will drive the three worlds mad and no one will escape. Your journey will certainly be a great success. Everyone is eagerly waiting for you. From Kheturi, you should go to Vrindavana, and when you return from Vrindavana you should distribute pure devotional love to everyone."
Upon hearing this voice, Sri Iswari wept with joy, and all the great personalities assembled there were overcome with happiness. Sri Jahnava consoled Sri Vasu devi, Ganga and Viracandra and, chanting the holy names of Gaura Nityananda, she and her party began their journey by boat to Kheturi. Meanwhile, news of Sri Iswari's future trip to Vraja via Kheturi spread everywhere.
After some distance, they stopped the boat and Sri Iswari visited the house of a fortunate merchant who was always absorbed in the glories of Nityananda Prabhu. His love overflowed to have Iswari in his house. Favoring them, Sri Iswari decided to take rest for the day in his house. Raghunatha Khaja, son of Bhagavan and favorite disciple of Jagadisa Pandita, came to meet Iswari at that time.
Early the next morning they started for Amvika, where Sri Hirdaya Caitanya greeted Sri Iswari. Seeing the Deities there of Nitai Caitanyacandra, she was filled with ecstatic emotions, and thereafter she and her companions took prasada. Sri Jahnava reported everything to Hirdaya Caitanya who also decided to go to Kheturi. In the meantime, Sri Caitanyadasa, son of Sri Vansivadana, came to meet Sri Iswari and also decided to go to Kheturi. At that time one man came from Santipura and reported that Sri Acyutananda, son of Advaita Prabhu, was practically dead due to the unbearable misery of separation from the Lord. His mother, Sri Sita, ordered him to go to Kheturi and thus they planned to start in the morning. Hearing this, Sri Iswari became so happy that she immediately instructed him to tell Acyutananda that he should travel along with her party. Sri Iswari and her companions happily spent that night in the house of Hirdaya Caitanya Pandita. In the morning she observed Sri Mangala Arati and dedicated
herself to the feet of Nitai Caitanya. She then started for Navadvipa.
Reaching the outskirts of Navadvipa, she began to weep thinking of the wonderful pastimes of the Lord. When the favorite associates of Caitanya Mahaprabhu who were still alive in Navadvipa heard that Sri Jahnava had come to their place, they all rushed happily to meet her. As she got down from the palanquin all the Vaisnavas of Navadvipa bowed to her feet, and she introduced her companions to the Navadvipa devotees. How can that glorious meeting be described? Many of the devotees were bowing at each other's feet, while others embraced one another, and still others began to loudly sing the glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. A long time passed before they were capable of checking their ecstatic loving feelings.
Eventually Pandita Sripati, brother of Srivasa Pandita, suggested to Sri Madhava Acharya and others, "I think we should take bath here in the Ganges." Everyone was delighted by the proposal and rushed to take their bath. Meanwhile, Sripati quickly went to Navadvipa and returned with many items. Sri Jahnava Iswari cheerfully fed them and afterwards took something herself.
The party then entered into Navadvipa and went to the house of Srivasa. Advaita Prabhu's son, Sri Gopala, brother of Acyuta, Sri Kanu Pandita, Visnudasa Mahasaya, Vanamali dasa and other great Vaisnavas came to greet them. Everyone was jubilant to meet one another. Srimati Iswari privately spoke to Acyutananda, explaining about the festival. Delighted, he immediately announced to his followers about the upcoming Kheturi festival. Quickly the news spread 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 the Vaisnavas. A long time passed joyfully in this way until eventually the devotees went to bed.
Early in the morning they resumed their journey. Upon arriving in Akaihata, they went to the house of Krishnadasa, the great singer, who quickly arranged food for them. He also prepared himself for going to Kheturi.
The next morning they again traveled on until they reached Kantakanagara. Krishnadasa Thakura was the first to be informed of their arrival and immediately came forward to greet them and brought them to his house. Very shortly thereafter, Sri Raghunandana and his companions arrived there, then Vaninath and Sivananda came along with others. Vallabha, Caitanya dasa, Bhagavat Acharya, Nartaka (dancer) Gopala, Jita Misra, Raghu Misra, Kasinath Pandita, Uddhava, Sri Nayanananda Misra and other favorite followers of Caitanya Mahaprabhu also came there. Everyone was overjoyed to meet one another and overwhelmed upon seeing the beauty of Sri Gauranga and Dasa Gadadhara. Afterwards they tearfully went to see the place where the Lord accepted sannyasa. A long time passed before they were able to calm themselves, eventually they went to take bath in the Ganges.
Meanwhile Sri Yadunandana collected many varieties of sweet for them and after offering them to Sri Gaurangacandra, placed separate plates of sweets in separate rooms. After coming back from the Ganges they very gladly took mahaprasada. On that day, Sri Jahnava Iswari in a happy mood went to cook for the devotees. She cooked various items and then offered them to Sri Gaurangacandra, who very happily accepted them. After some time, she affectionately distributed prasada to all the devotees. Everyone delightedly relished the prasada which tasted like nectar. Afterwards Sri Iswari took some
prasada. After her, Sri Yadunandana and others ate.
Yadunandana, being extremely moved by remembrance of his spiritual master, Dasa Gadadhara, began preparing for the trip to Kheturi. He carefully instructed the priest of the temple to be attentive to the service of Sri Gauranga. By the evening all the preparations were complete.
In the meantime, all the mahantas gathered in the courtyard of Sri Gauranga. After observing Sri Gauranga's arati ceremony, they started sankirtana. In this way most of the night passed in glorification of Krishna. Late at night they took a short nap. In the morning, after offering their obeisances at the feet of Gauracandra, they started out for Kheturi and very soon they crossed the River Padmavati. Sri Iswari sent a messenger to inform Acharya Thakura of their arrival. Excited and happy, Sri Acharya, Sri Thakura Mahasaya and Syamananda all stood together, shining as brilliantly as the sun, expectantly staring at the path waiting for her arrival. Seeing these three exalted souls waiting on the path, Sri Iswari could not contain her emotions and got down from her 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 the rest 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 person soaked Sri Gokulananda with his tears. One devotee stretched out his arms to greet Sridasa, and another affectionately embraced Syamananda and Govinda Kaviraja.
When the party entered into Kheturi proper, the entire village was submerged in an ocean of happiness. With great care Acharya Thakura escorted the devotees to separate houses and appointed Ramacandra Kaviraja to the service of Raghunatha Acharya and his associates. He appointed Syamananda to the service of Sri Hirdaya Caitanya. Sri Nrsimha Kaviraja was appointed to serve Sri Caitanyadasa and some others, and Sri Vyasa Acharya took care of Sripati, Srinidhi Pandita and their associates. He asked Sri Vallabhi Kanta to serve Krishnadasa and other devotees from Akaihata, and Sri Govinda Kaviraja took charge of serving Sri Raghunandana and his companions. RamaKrishna, Kumuda and their associates were requested to look after Vaninatha, Jita Misra and others. Kaviraja Bhagavan was put in the service of Sri Yadunandana Cakravarti, and Sri Gopiramana and others were appointed to the service of the other Vaisnavas. Srinivasa arranged separate stocks of food for separate houses, and Sri Acharya Thakura and Thakura Mahasaya oversaw everything to assure that all was executed properly.
Simply hearing about the arrival of all these great mahantas in Kheturi can fulfill all the desires of the listeners.
So hear attentively as I, Narahari, narrate this Narottama Vilasa.
At an auspicious time, Narottama crossed the Padmavati and entered Sri Kheturi. People from every corner of the village happily flocked to see him. Sri Santosa Datta and others greeted Sri Thakura Mahasaya and arranged accommodations for him in a solitary house. Nevertheless, the house was packed until the evening with enthusiastic villagers eager for his darsana.
In the evening when Narottama was finally alone, he began to think deeply about his devotional service to Sri Krishna. Eventually, by the Lord's arrangement, he finally fell asleep late in the evening. In a dream the son of Saci told him, "Oh Narottama, in the hope of your coming here, I hid Myself in the form of a metal Deity in the house of an influential landlord. Everyone knows him because he is a rich man with many rice-go-downs, but no one will approach these go-downs because they are full of poisonous snakes. In one of the bigger go-downs I have concealed Myself. Quickly go and open the door of that go-down and bring Me to your house." He then advised Narottama to have more Deities made and then vanished after embracing him.
Narottama excitedly woke to find that it was still dark. He spent the rest of the night performing sankirtana and in the morning quickly completed his daily duties. He then asked various persons if they knew of a rich man who had many rice go-downs which were infested with snakes. Everyone knew the man, and Narottama requested them to take him there. Thus Narottama, along with a few others, went to the rich man's house, who was greatly surprised and happy to receive them. Sri Thakura Mahasaya immediately proceeded straight towards the rice go-down. The rich man was horrified, falling at Narottama's feet he begged with folded hands, "Everyone knows that these go-downs are infested with snakes. Many snake tamers have tried to clear them out but their attempts were in vain. Long ago I gave up hope of getting rid of the snakes and, although I lost considerable money, I was forced to close the buildings down. I could not possibly allow you to go inside. Please tell me, what I can do for you?"
Thakura Mahasaya simply laughed and said, "Don't be nervous, I shall clear it out now. I have very important business to attend to within your go-down. Afterwards you will be relieved and happy to see what I will bring out from inside." Saying this, Thakura Mahasaya undauntedly walked towards the go-down, as the spectators trembled in fear. But when the snakes saw Thakura Mahasaya, they immediately left the go-down and went away. In a trance of love, Narottama opened the door and found Navadvipa Candra with His consort. Their bodies were fully decorated with ornaments and Their brilliant beauty was beyond compare. When Narottama picked Them up and lovingly clasped Them to his heart, he was suddenly jolted as if struck by a bolt of lightning.
Everyone was spellbound to see the Deities and began shouting with joy. Someone remarked, "It is not possible for an ordinary human being to do such a thing." Someone else said, "Who can understand him? Because of his presence our village has become blessed." Another person commented, "If we are fortunate enough, 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 along behind him. Upon reaching his house, he placed Sri Gauranga and His consort on a beautiful celestial seat. With unblinking eyes he stared at the Lord crying incessantly. Suddenly a thought came to his mind and began spontaneously singing a beautiful kirtana about the glories of Gauracandra which he had written but had not yet been heard by others. Narottama sang and danced gracefully, putting the Gandharvas to shame. Even the Yavanas and the wicked souls became mad and sang the glories of Gauranga's pastimes. The sound of kirtana covered the entire world and the demigods showered flowers from the heavens. Gandharvas and Kinnaras remarked with amazement, "Who is that extraordinary person who has suddenly manifested this most sublime and beautiful kirtana? Even we 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 the devotees of Caitanya have this type of extraordinary power. All the devotees of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu are worshipable by even the demigods and goddesses." Saying this, they accepting the guise of human beings, came before Narottama and fell at his feet. Thus from that very special day the super-excellent kirtana of Sri Narottama dasa Thakura was inaugurated. On that same day Balarama Vipra and others happily took initiation from Sri Thakura.
With a satisfied heart, Sri Thakura Mahasaya began to serve Gauracandra and Laksmi Visnupriya. He appointed Balarama Vipra and others to take charge of the Deities' service. As ordered in a dream, he also installed five more Deities.
After this he began to feel anxious about not having heard from Srinivasa Acharya 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 come from Yajigrama in such a long time. Now, I am at a loss as to what to do." Just as he was thinking in this way a man suddenly arrived from Yajigrama. With great relief Thakura Mahasaya eagerly inquired about events there. The devotee replied, "Everything is fine there, but Acharya Thakura is always thinking of you and missing your association. He regularly visits Sri Khanda and Kantakanagara, and has also gone to Navadvipa. One day when he was in Khanda, Sri Sarkara Thakura spoke with him and again requested that he marry. This time he could not disobey Thakura. Thus he married and settled at Yajigrama, where many scholars and learned persons regularly visit. Now Ramacandra, a learned son of Sri Ciranjiva Sena of Khanda, has become the disciple of Acharya, and many others have also accepted initiation from him.
He has also successfully distributed all of the books of the Gosvamis. He sent a message to Sri Vrindavana, and one man brought a reply along with more books written by Sri Jiva Gosvami. Acharya has already distributed these new books everywhere.
Recently Srinivasa received a letter from Navadvipa, carrying devastating news. Many of the Lord's associates from Santipura and the surrounding areas, who were suffering intensely in the fire of separation, have now left this world. Hearing about the demise of Sri Sarkara Thakura and Sri Dasa Gadadhara, Srinivasa Acharya sank deep in the ocean of despair. I cannot describe his state of mind. Sometimes we were afraid of his life. One day being unable to bear the pain of separation, he left for Vrindavana without telling anyone.
The Gosvamis were overjoyed to have Srinivasa's company. They happily sat him down and inquired about his well-being and listened intently to the full account of carrying the manuscripts to Gauda. In this way they happily spent four or five days together.
Around that time, Sri Ramacandra Sena came there to meet Srinivasa Acharya. When the Gosvamis were informed of Ramacandra's scholarly capabilities, they conferred upon him the title of "Kaviraja." The Gosvamis eagerly listened as Ramacandra gave a full account of Srinivasa Acharya's marriage.
Thereafter Sri Jiva Gosvami and the others gladly handed over more books to Srinivasa Acharya, appointed four Vrajavasis to accompany him, and bade him farewell. Sri Gopala Bhatta, Lokanatha, and everyone there was extremely sad to see him leave. Srinivasa quickly returned to Gauda and then went to Visnupura to relieve the king. I heard that he would be coming soon to Yajigrama, so I immediately came here to inform you."
During the course of this conversation, two messengers suddenly arrived with another letter for Narottama from Sri Acharya and Narottama happily read aloud, "I left my house, along with my followers, and went to Kancanagaria where I initiated two devotees, who are the bearers of this letter. These two 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 and started for Vudhuri."
Reading this, Narottama exclaimed, "Oh what a wonderful morning for me," and happily escorted the two messengers to the temple of Sri Gaura. There he introduced them to Balarama Pujari, who gladly brought them mahaprasada.
Thakura Mahasaya then went to inspect whether all the preparations for the forthcoming festival were ready or not. He was happy to find that all the go-downs were full of commodities. He then engaged various persons to 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 announced his arrival to Sri Acharya, who happily hurried out of the house and found Narottama standing there. Narottama fell at his feet, and Sri Acharya Thakura embraced him warmly. He then introduced Narottama to Ramacandra and the other devotees.
Sitting in a quiet place they discussed many topics; Srinivasa explained how he had met Ramacandra and initiated him, how his marriage had occurred, how Ramacandra received the title "Kaviraja," his journey from Yajigrama to Vudhuri and how he conferred the title of "Kaviraja" upon Govinda. He then inquired about Narottama's well being, and Narottama gradually explained how Sri Santosa Raya and others had became his disciples, how he rescued the Deity of Sri Gaurahari and arranged to have five more Deities carved and how he was making preparations for the forthcoming great festival. Narottama said, "As soon as I received your letter, I decided to hold the festival on the full-moon day of Phalguna." Thereafter they sat together and compiled a list of devotees to invite to the festival and immediately sent out the invitation letter to all the devotees of Sri Gaurangamandala. Narottama also wrote a letter inviting Syamananda from Utkala. Sri Acharya and Narottama then sat together discussing privately. Later, Sri Acharya put Ramacandra under the care of Narottama.
Within a few days, news of Sri Acharya, Narottama and Ramacandra spread like wildfire. In every corner people were speaking about them: "They have mercifully appeared in this world to save the fallen souls from this hellish material 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 Acharya permitted Narottama to return to Kheturi and instructed Ramacandra and others to accompany him. Upon arriving in Kheturi they immediately went for darsana of Sri Gauranga. There they happily met the disciples of Thakura Mahasaya, who were all abodes of transcendental qualities. Thereafter they inquired about the preparations for the festival and were pleased to find an enormous collection of the necessary commodities. Sri Thakura Mahasaya arranged separate private houses for Ramacandra and the others, where they all waited anxiously for the arrival of Sri Acharya.
Shortly thereafter, when Sri Acharya Thakura, along with Govinda and other devotees, arrived in Kheturi, a wonderful scene ensued as all the Vaisnavas ran out to greet them. They happily escorted Sri Acharya to a beautiful house and then took him for darsana of Sri Gauranga. Upon seeing the Deity along with His consort, Laksmi-Visnupriya, Acharya was filled with ecstatic love. He then saw the other five Deities and was equally overjoyed to see each one. Sri Acharya then inspected the go-downs, but his mind was constantly distracted by thoughts of Sri Syamananda Prabhu. As he was thinking in this way, someone suddenly announced that Syamananda had just arrived from Utkala.
Hearing this, Acharya and his men dashed to welcome him. When Syamananda and his companions entered the house of Sri Acharya, Syamananda could not check his emotions. They embraced, soaking each other with their tears. Acharya then asked about Syamananda's well being. The same emotional scene occurred when Narottama arrived there. Sri Thakura Mahasaya then introduced Syamananda to all the Vaisnavas, and Sri Syamananda in turn introduced Rasikananda and his other devotees. Sridasa, Gokulananda, Vyasa Cakravarti, Ramacandra and Govinda Kaviraja were extremely happy to meet Cattaraja, RamaKrishna, Kumuda and the others. Narottama then took Ramacandra and Syamananda to a beautiful house and said to Rasikananda affectionately, "My dear Rasikananda, try to manage
everything smoothly and peacefully. Be very careful to look after the guests so they do not experience any inconvenience." Rasikananda listened humbly with folded hands and remained quiet. His humility charmed the heart of Narottama.
Thakura Mahasaya and Ramacandra returned to Sri Acharya's place and sent Sri Govinda Kaviraja to take Syamananda to the temple of Sri Gaurasundara. Syamananda was ecstatic to see the beautiful form of the Lord and requested to see the other five Deities. Govinda also showed Syamananda the store rooms. Sri Rasikananda, Purusottama, Sri Kisora and other devotees had brought many items from home to contribute for the festival. Thus their gifts were added to the huge stock. In this way the commodities increased and the store rooms bulged with goods. Syamananda then went to Sri Acharya's place and together they relished discussions about Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. In this way that wonderful day came to a close.
In the morning everyone completed their daily duties and began to wonder why Sri Jahnava Devi had not arrived in Kheturi yet. As they were thinking in this way, a brahmana arrived and reported that Sri Jahnava Iswari had just crossed the River Padmavati. Everyone happily scrambled towards the bank of the river to greet Sri Iswari. The news rapidly spread and people came running from all directions.
After bowing to her feet, Acharya asked about her well-being. She replied, "Upon receiving your letter we were all extremely anxious to come to Kheturi at once." At that time when Jahnava had received the invitation to Kheturi, Krishnadasa Atyudara, the elder brother of Suryadasa Sarkhela, was also present there. Hearing about the forthcoming festival, Srila Raghupati Upadhyaya, Murari, Caitanya, Jnanadasa, Manohara, Kamalakara Pippalai, Sri Jiva Pandita, Madhava Acharya, Nrsimha Caitanya Dasa, Kanai, Sankara, Sri Gaurangadasa, Vrindavana, Sri Minaketana, Ramadasa, Nakari, Sri Balarama and others, bowed to the feet of the two Iswaris and humbly said, "We would also like to go to Kheturi." Hearing this Sri Jahnava happily requested Sri Paramesvara dasa to begin preparations for their journey immediately. On the day of Sri Iswari's departure, many Vaisnavas from distant places came to see Sri Iswari and when they came to know about the festival, they also were eager to go along with her. They enthusiastically rushed back to their houses and began preparing for the journey. For this reason the entire party was held up for some time.
At the time of their departure they suddenly heard a deep voice speaking to them from the sky saying, "Srinivasa and Narottama are extremely dear to Me and are empowered by Me to distribute divine love. I am completely bound by their love. In Kheturi you will all see Me dance in the sankirtana along with My companions. The power of My love will drive the three worlds mad and no one will escape. Your journey will certainly be a great success. Everyone is eagerly waiting for you. From Kheturi, you should go to Vrindavana, and when you return from Vrindavana you should distribute pure devotional love to everyone."
Upon hearing this voice, Sri Iswari wept with joy, and all the great personalities assembled there were overcome with happiness. Sri Jahnava consoled Sri Vasu devi, Ganga and Viracandra and, chanting the holy names of Gaura Nityananda, she and her party began their journey by boat to Kheturi. Meanwhile, news of Sri Iswari's future trip to Vraja via Kheturi spread everywhere.
After some distance, they stopped the boat and Sri Iswari visited the house of a fortunate merchant who was always absorbed in the glories of Nityananda Prabhu. His love overflowed to have Iswari in his house. Favoring them, Sri Iswari decided to take rest for the day in his house. Raghunatha Khaja, son of Bhagavan and favorite disciple of Jagadisa Pandita, came to meet Iswari at that time.
Early the next morning they started for Amvika, where Sri Hirdaya Caitanya greeted Sri Iswari. Seeing the Deities there of Nitai Caitanyacandra, she was filled with ecstatic emotions, and thereafter she and her companions took prasada. Sri Jahnava reported everything to Hirdaya Caitanya who also decided to go to Kheturi. In the meantime, Sri Caitanyadasa, son of Sri Vansivadana, came to meet Sri Iswari and also decided to go to Kheturi. At that time one man came from Santipura and reported that Sri Acyutananda, son of Advaita Prabhu, was practically dead due to the unbearable misery of separation from the Lord. His mother, Sri Sita, ordered him to go to Kheturi and thus they planned to start in the morning. Hearing this, Sri Iswari became so happy that she immediately instructed him to tell Acyutananda that he should travel along with her party. Sri Iswari and her companions happily spent that night in the house of Hirdaya Caitanya Pandita. In the morning she observed Sri Mangala Arati and dedicated
herself to the feet of Nitai Caitanya. She then started for Navadvipa.
Reaching the outskirts of Navadvipa, she began to weep thinking of the wonderful pastimes of the Lord. When the favorite associates of Caitanya Mahaprabhu who were still alive in Navadvipa heard that Sri Jahnava had come to their place, they all rushed happily to meet her. As she got down from the palanquin all the Vaisnavas of Navadvipa bowed to her feet, and she introduced her companions to the Navadvipa devotees. How can that glorious meeting be described? Many of the devotees were bowing at each other's feet, while others embraced one another, and still others began to loudly sing the glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. A long time passed before they were capable of checking their ecstatic loving feelings.
Eventually Pandita Sripati, brother of Srivasa Pandita, suggested to Sri Madhava Acharya and others, "I think we should take bath here in the Ganges." Everyone was delighted by the proposal and rushed to take their bath. Meanwhile, Sripati quickly went to Navadvipa and returned with many items. Sri Jahnava Iswari cheerfully fed them and afterwards took something herself.
The party then entered into Navadvipa and went to the house of Srivasa. Advaita Prabhu's son, Sri Gopala, brother of Acyuta, Sri Kanu Pandita, Visnudasa Mahasaya, Vanamali dasa and other great Vaisnavas came to greet them. Everyone was jubilant to meet one another. Srimati Iswari privately spoke to Acyutananda, explaining about the festival. Delighted, he immediately announced to his followers about the upcoming Kheturi festival. Quickly the news spread 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 the Vaisnavas. A long time passed joyfully in this way until eventually the devotees went to bed.
Early in the morning they resumed their journey. Upon arriving in Akaihata, they went to the house of Krishnadasa, the great singer, who quickly arranged food for them. He also prepared himself for going to Kheturi.
The next morning they again traveled on until they reached Kantakanagara. Krishnadasa Thakura was the first to be informed of their arrival and immediately came forward to greet them and brought them to his house. Very shortly thereafter, Sri Raghunandana and his companions arrived there, then Vaninath and Sivananda came along with others. Vallabha, Caitanya dasa, Bhagavat Acharya, Nartaka (dancer) Gopala, Jita Misra, Raghu Misra, Kasinath Pandita, Uddhava, Sri Nayanananda Misra and other favorite followers of Caitanya Mahaprabhu also came there. Everyone was overjoyed to meet one another and overwhelmed upon seeing the beauty of Sri Gauranga and Dasa Gadadhara. Afterwards they tearfully went to see the place where the Lord accepted sannyasa. A long time passed before they were able to calm themselves, eventually they went to take bath in the Ganges.
Meanwhile Sri Yadunandana collected many varieties of sweet for them and after offering them to Sri Gaurangacandra, placed separate plates of sweets in separate rooms. After coming back from the Ganges they very gladly took mahaprasada. On that day, Sri Jahnava Iswari in a happy mood went to cook for the devotees. She cooked various items and then offered them to Sri Gaurangacandra, who very happily accepted them. After some time, she affectionately distributed prasada to all the devotees. Everyone delightedly relished the prasada which tasted like nectar. Afterwards Sri Iswari took some
prasada. After her, Sri Yadunandana and others ate.
Yadunandana, being extremely moved by remembrance of his spiritual master, Dasa Gadadhara, began preparing for the trip to Kheturi. He carefully instructed the priest of the temple to be attentive to the service of Sri Gauranga. By the evening all the preparations were complete.
In the meantime, all the mahantas gathered in the courtyard of Sri Gauranga. After observing Sri Gauranga's arati ceremony, they started sankirtana. In this way most of the night passed in glorification of Krishna. Late at night they took a short nap. In the morning, after offering their obeisances at the feet of Gauracandra, they started out for Kheturi and very soon they crossed the River Padmavati. Sri Iswari sent a messenger to inform Acharya Thakura of their arrival. Excited and happy, Sri Acharya, Sri Thakura Mahasaya and Syamananda all stood together, shining as brilliantly as the sun, expectantly staring at the path waiting for her arrival. Seeing these three exalted souls waiting on the path, Sri Iswari could not contain her emotions and got down from her 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 the rest 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 person soaked Sri Gokulananda with his tears. One devotee stretched out his arms to greet Sridasa, and another affectionately embraced Syamananda and Govinda Kaviraja.
When the party entered into Kheturi proper, the entire village was submerged in an ocean of happiness. With great care Acharya Thakura escorted the devotees to separate houses and appointed Ramacandra Kaviraja to the service of Raghunatha Acharya and his associates. He appointed Syamananda to the service of Sri Hirdaya Caitanya. Sri Nrsimha Kaviraja was appointed to serve Sri Caitanyadasa and some others, and Sri Vyasa Acharya took care of Sripati, Srinidhi Pandita and their associates. He asked Sri Vallabhi Kanta to serve Krishnadasa and other devotees from Akaihata, and Sri Govinda Kaviraja took charge of serving Sri Raghunandana and his companions. RamaKrishna, Kumuda and their associates were requested to look after Vaninatha, Jita Misra and others. Kaviraja Bhagavan was put in the service of Sri Yadunandana Cakravarti, and Sri Gopiramana and others were appointed to the service of the other Vaisnavas. Srinivasa arranged separate stocks of food for separate houses, and Sri Acharya Thakura and Thakura Mahasaya oversaw everything to assure that all was executed properly.
Simply hearing about the arrival of all these great mahantas in Kheturi can fulfill all the desires of the listeners.
So hear attentively as I, Narahari, narrate this Narottama Vilasa.
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