Disappearance Day — April 9th, 2026

On the sacred saptami of the dark fortnight in the month of Madhusudana, devotees lovingly remember the disappearance day of Sri Abhirama Thakura, also known as Abhirama Gopala and Rama Dasa, one of the most powerful and ecstatic associates of Lord Nityananda Prabhu. Renowned for his fearless preaching, intense devotion, and extraordinary spiritual potency, his life beautifully connects the intimate pastimes of Vraja with the merciful sankirtana mission of Navadvipa.

According to the Gaudiya scriptures, Sri Abhirama Thakura is the incarnation of Sridama, one of the dearmost cowherd friends of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan. A beloved pastime describes how he came to participate in Gaura-lila. One day, while Krishna, Balarama, and Their cowherd friends were playing hide-and-seek, Krishna decided to travel to Nadia to begin His future pastimes. Taking Balarama and the other boys with Him, He manifested in Navadvipa, but Sridama remained hidden in his cave and was unintentionally left behind. Realizing this, Krishna sent Balarama—who later appeared as Lord Nityananda—to bring him. When Nityananda approached Sridama and called him to come to Nadia, Sridama hesitated, noting that Nityananda appeared smaller than he remembered from Dvapara-yuga, when bodies were much larger than in Kali-yuga. To prove His identity, Nityananda challenged him to run, promising to catch him within ten steps. Sridama ran swiftly, yet Nityananda caught him instantly. Still feeling hurt at being left behind, Sridama resisted going, and thus Lord Nityananda manifested an expansion known as Rama Dasa, who agreed to accompany Him. In this way, Sridama appeared in Gaura-lila as Sri Abhirama Thakura to assist in spreading the mercy of the Holy Name.

When Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu later instructed Lord Nityananda Prabhu to return to Bengal and freely distribute divine love, Sri Abhirama Thakura accompanied Him as a fearless preacher. His presence carried such spiritual force that atheists and offenders trembled upon seeing him. Though deeply absorbed in devotion, he later married according to the desire of Lord Nityananda Prabhu, and his wife was Sri Malini-devi.

Sri Abhirama Thakura’s life is filled with extraordinary pastimes that demonstrated his immense spiritual potency. Lord Krishna once appeared to him in a dream and revealed that His Deity form was buried beneath the earth at Khanakula Krishnanagar. Following this divine instruction, Abhirama Thakura excavated the ground and discovered the beautiful form of Sri Gopinathji. The place where the Deity manifested became known as Ram Kund, where a lake formed whose waters were said to be sweet like nectar, and those who bathed or drank from it experienced deep spiritual ecstasy. News of these divine events spread widely, drawing countless pilgrims to the sacred site.

He was also known for carrying a celebrated whip named Jaya Mangala, which awakened Krishna-prema in those touched by it. One well-known pastime describes how Sri Srinivasa Acharya was touched several times with this whip and immediately became overwhelmed with ecstatic love of Krishna. Such was Abhirama Thakura’s spiritual strength that even his obeisances carried great potency—if he offered obeisances to any stone other than a genuine Shalagram-shila, that stone would crack apart.

His interactions with other great devotees were equally remarkable. Once, when he went to meet Raghunandana Thakura, circumstances caused them to miss one another initially, but when they finally met, they danced together in deep ecstatic love. During this dancing, Raghunandana’s ankle ornament fell at a sacred location where it continued to be worshiped thereafter. Even great souls such as Gopala Guru Goswami were tested by Abhirama Thakura in their youth, yet remained unharmed due to the mercy of Lord Chaitanya.

Sri Abhirama Thakura’s intense spiritual energy was also seen in his dealings with the children of Lord Nityananda Prabhu. It is described that when he offered obeisances to the newborn sons of Nityananda Prabhu, their bodies could not withstand the force of his spiritual potency, and several departed shortly after birth. However, when Ganga-devi, the daughter of Nityananda Prabhu, was born and remained unaffected by his obeisances, he joyfully composed one hundred verses glorifying her. Similarly, when Viracandra Prabhu appeared and remained unaffected, he composed the renowned Sri Birbhadrastakam in praise.

On another occasion, absorbed in remembrance of Krishna and in the mood of a cowherd boy, Sri Abhirama Thakura desired to play the flute. In ecstatic love, he fashioned a flute from a massive tree trunk—so large that sixteen men could not lift it—and began playing in divine remembrance of Krishna’s pastimes.

As a learned scholar of the scriptures and a powerful associate of Lord Nityananda Prabhu, Sri Abhirama Thakura played a vital role in spreading the sankirtana movement across Bengal. His life teaches us the spirit of fearless devotion, unwavering faith, and deep love for Krishna and His devotees. On this sacred disappearance day, devotees pray to him for the strength to serve with courage, to deepen their faith, and to develop the boldness to share Krishna consciousness without hesitation.

Let us bow down to Sri Abhirama Thakura, the beloved associate of Lord Nityananda, who carried the whip of divine love to awaken the sleeping souls of this world and inspire hearts with fearless devotion.

Hare Krishna 
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Śrīla Prabhupāda!
All glories to Sri Narasimhadeva!

As the auspicious appearance day of Lord Narasimhadeva approaches, devotees and well-wishers alike joyfully look forward to this sacred time of receiving His protection, blessings, and mercy. The divine pastimes of Lord Narasimhadeva remind us that sincere prayers are always heard, and His shelter brings strength, courage, and reassurance to all.

As we prepare for this sacred festival:
 "May there be good fortune throughout the universe, and may all envious persons be pacified. May all living entities become calm by practicing bhakti-yoga, for by accepting devotional service they will think of each other's welfare. Therefore, let us all engage in the service of the supreme transcendence, Lord Sri Krishna, and always remain absorbed in thought of Him." (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 5.18.9)

This year, we invite you to take part in the Sri Narasimha Navaratri Yajna, leading up to this most auspicious day.
9 Days of Powerful Yajnas | 12 Sacred Kundas Daily
Yajamana Seva Available — ₹5555

During these sacred days, yajnas will be performed daily in twelve kundas, invoking prayers for protection, purification, and divine blessings. By becoming a yajamana, you directly participate in these offerings and seek the shelter of Lord Narasimhadeva for yourself and your loved ones.
Yajna Seva Options:
* Navaratri Yajna (9 days, 1 kunda) – ₹49,995
* Navaratri Yajna (5 days, 1 kunda) – ₹27,775
* Navaratri Yajna (1 day, 1 kunda) – ₹5,555
* Sri Narasimha Procession – ₹4,001

Kindly take this opportunity to serve and receive His divine protection:
https://www.mayapur.com/festivals/Narasimha-Caturdasi 

May Lord Narasimhadeva always protect you and your family.
Thank you once again for your continued support.

Your servants,
Mayapur.com Team

Three days ago, devotees from all over the world joyfully gathered to celebrate the 77th Vyasa Puja of His Holiness Jayapataka Swami Guru Maharaj, and with each passing year, it truly feels that the bliss, enthusiasm, and heartfelt glorification only continue to increase. This year’s sacred celebration took place over two beautiful days, beginning on the 28th of March with the Vyasa Puja Adhivas and continuing on the 29th of March with the grand Vyasa Puja Mahotsava. In Sridham Mayapur, this celebration always feels like a mini Gaura Purnima, as thousands and thousands of disciples, friends, godbrothers, and well-wishers come together in unity to glorify their beloved spiritual master. The atmosphere becomes filled with kirtan, prayers, and loving offerings, and one can feel a deep sense of gratitude in every heart.

His Holiness Jayapataka Swami Guru Maharaj is one of the senior disciples of Srila Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON, and his entire life stands as an example of unwavering dedication to the mission of his spiritual master. From the early days of assisting Srila Prabhupada to helping develop Mayapur into the spiritual center it is today, Guru Maharaj has spent decades tirelessly traveling, preaching, guiding disciples, and inspiring countless souls toward Krishna consciousness. His compassion and determination have helped expand the mission of Srila Prabhupada worldwide, and his life continues to inspire thousands to remain steady in devotional service. For devotees, Vyasa Puja is not merely a celebration, it is a day to reflect deeply on the mercy received through the spiritual master and to offer heartfelt gratitude for his guidance.

In October 2008, Gurumaharaja suffered a massive stroke that caused bleeding in two areas of the brain, including the delicate brain stem. The situation was extremely critical, and doctors acknowledged that the chances of survival were very slim. Devotees around the world prayed intensely, knowing that his life was not his own, but meant for the service of his Guru and the mission of Lord Caitanya.

Yet even in those life-threatening moments, his consciousness remained fixed in devotional service. While lying in the hospital, unable to speak due to medical tubes and machines, he still showed his deep compassion by encouraging those around him to chant. Devotees recall that he was given a clicker so that he could continue his chanting, even when speech was not possible. This reveals the extraordinary depth of his attachment to the holy name, that even when the body was failing, his spiritual determination remained strong.

What is even more astonishing is that only four months after such a devastating stroke, he insisted on returning to Mayapur to attend the Gaura Purnima festival, something he had not missed for decades. Despite the intense rehabilitation required, including daily physiotherapy and medical supervision, his desire was always to return to preaching and serving. His focus was never on comfort, but always on fulfilling his responsibility to his Guru and disciples.

Over the years, Gurumaharaja has faced multiple serious health challenges, including severe infections, lung complications, and in 2018, a major kidney and liver transplant that required long hospitalization and recovery. Yet even during those difficult times, his spirit of devotion did not weaken. In fact, after long hospital stays where he was unable to complete his daily chanting, once he regained strength, he carefully made up the rounds he had missed, chanting hundreds of extra rounds until his vow was complete. Such determination is almost unimaginable for ordinary persons, yet for him it is simply part of his lifelong commitment to devotional service.

Every day, Gurumaharaja thinks about how to deliver his disciples and how to bring Krishna consciousness to the whole world. Even at the brink of death, in the hospital bed, surrounded by machines and doctors, his concern was not for his own suffering but for the spiritual benefit of others. He distributed Mahaprasad to doctors and inspired them to chant, turning even the hospital environment into a place of spiritual connection.

This is our Gurumaharaj, completely selfless, completely absorbed, and completely dedicated. His life is a living example of what it means to serve without hesitation, without complaint, and without pause. Even when the body is weak, his determination to preach remains strong. Even when health fails, his chanting continues. Even when facing unimaginable pain, his only desire is to carry out the instructions of his Guru.

To witness such dedication is both humbling and inspiring. It reminds us that spiritual life is not meant to be casual or convenient, but sincere and steady. Gurumaharaja’s example shows us that even in illness, even in weakness, even in the most uncertain moments of life, one can remain fixed in service.

The Vyasa Puja celebration began on the 28th of March with the Adhivas day, setting the devotional mood for the festival. The morning began with Srimad Bhagavatam class, followed by a yajna offered for Guru Maharaj’s continued health and preaching mission. Later in the day, devotees gathered for melodious bhajan kirtan, filling the temple with the vibration of the holy names. A special health update and preaching report was shared, inspiring everyone to hear about Guru Maharaj’s ongoing service and determination. In the evening, the Adhivas ceremony marked the formal beginning of the Vyasa Puja festivities, followed by a joyful cultural program where devotees expressed their love through music, drama, and devotional offerings.

The main Vyasa Puja day on the 29th of March was filled with sacred moments and heartfelt offerings. The day began early with a special Narasimha Puja, invoking protection and blessings, followed by a Srimad Bhagavatam class by Guru Maharaj, which was a deeply cherished opportunity for all present. Senior devotees and sannyasis then offered glorifications, sharing realizations and memories of Guru Maharaj’s mercy and service. Later in the morning, Guru Maharaj delivered his Vyasa Puja address, offering encouragement and guidance to all his disciples. At noon, a beautiful bhoga offering was made, followed by the bathing of the lotus feet, pushpanjali, maha arati, and gift offerings, where devotees expressed their devotion with love and sincerity. The day continued with prasadam, kirtan, further glorifications, another inspiring address by Guru Maharaj, a vibrant cultural program, and finally a joyful cake-cutting ceremony that brought smiles and happiness to everyone present.

One of the most heart-touching aspects of this year’s Vyasa Puja celebration was the offering of the special new outfit to Their Lordships, something that devotees eagerly anticipate every single year. There is always a sense of excitement and devotion surrounding this offering, and this year was certainly no exception. The theme of the new dress beautifully transformed the mood of the temple, it truly felt as if Vrindavan itself had manifested there. The temple and altar were so beautifully decorated according to the theme that one could feel transported into the sacred forests of Vrindavan. From the eyes of all those present, the altar appeared alive with decorative parrots, buzzing bees, butterflies, and many other forest elements, all carefully arranged with devotion and artistry. The colors, textures, and intricate details created a feeling of natural beauty and spiritual sweetness that deeply touched the heart. Standing there, it did not feel like an ordinary decoration—it felt like stepping into Vrindavan, where every detail reminded one of Krishna’s pastimes and the loving service of devotees.

This Vyasa Puja celebration in Mayapur is truly unlike any other, because it brings together thousands of hearts united in gratitude. Devotees travel long distances, sometimes from the farthest corners of the world, just to be present and offer their love to Guru Maharaj. Even those who cannot attend physically participate through through Mayapur TV, homages, and offerings from wherever they are. It becomes a powerful reminder that the spiritual master’s mercy reaches far beyond physical boundaries and touches the lives of countless souls across the globe.

Vyasa Puja is ultimately a festival of gratitude. It is a day when disciples reflect on the priceless gift of spiritual guidance and remember the sacrifices made by the spiritual master to uplift others. The life of His Holiness Jayapataka Swami Guru Maharaj reminds us that true devotion means serving tirelessly, encouraging others, and remaining fixed in the mission of the previous acharyas. Through his dedication, compassion, and unwavering faith, he continues to inspire generations to take shelter of the holy name and remain steady on the path of devotional service.

For those who witnessed this year’s Vyasa Puja celebration, it was not simply an even, it was a spiritual experience filled with devotion, beauty, and gratitude. The sound of kirtan, the heartfelt glorifications, the sacred rituals, and the breathtaking altar decoration all came together to create a festival that felt truly blessed. Being present during these sacred days naturally fills the heart with appreciation and humility, reminding us how fortunate we are to receive the mercy of the spiritual master. Anyone who hears about or reads about such a celebration cannot help but feel grateful and blessed, because Vyasa Puja is ultimately a celebration of mercy, service, and the loving connection between guru isciple that guides us toward Krishna.

Kāmada Ekadashi | 29 March 2026 (Sunday) 
Suitable for fasting 
(Fasting for Kāmada Ekadashi)

Break fast on 30 March 2026 (Monday)
Time: 05:31 (sunrise) – 07:12 (end of tithi) LT
Please confirm with your local temple for exact breaking time.

Festival Event
Dāmanakāropaṇa Dvādaśī

Ekadashi Story 
Sri Suta Goswami said, "Oh sages, let me offer my humble and respectful obeisances unto the Supreme Lord Hari, Bhagavan Sri Krishna, the son of Devaki and Vasudeva, by whose mercy I can describe the fast day that removes all kinds of sins.
It was to the devoted Yudhisthira that Lord Krishna glorified the twenty-four primary Ekadasis, which destroy sin, and now I shall recount one of those narrations to you.
Great-learned sages have selected these twenty-four narrations from the eighteen Puranas, for they are truly sublime.

Yudhishthira Maharaja said, 'Oh Lord Krishna, Oh Vasudeva, please accept my humble obeisances. Please describe to me the Ekadasi that occurs during the light part of the month of Chaitra [March-April].
What is its name, and what are its glories?'

Lord Sri Krishna replied, 'Oh Yudhishthira, please listen to Me attentively as I relate the ancient history of this sacred Ekadasi, a history Vasishtha Muni once related to King Dilipa, the great-grandfather of Lord Ramachandra.
King Dilipa asked the great sage Vasishtha, "Oh wise brahmana, I wish to hear about the Ekadasi that comes during the light part of the month of Chaitra.
Please describe it to me."

Vasishtha Muni replied, "Oh king, your inquiry is glories. Gladly shall I tell you what you wish to know. The Ekadasi that occurs during the light fortnight of Chaitra is named Kamada Ekadasi. It consumes all sins, as a forest fire consumes a supply of dry firewood. It is very purifying, and it bestows the highest merit upon one who faithfully observes it.

Oh king, now hear an ancient history which is so meritorious that it removes all one's sins simply by being heard. Once, long ago, there existed a city-state named Ratnapura, which was decorated with gold and jewels and in which sharp-fanged snakes would enjoy intoxication. King Pundarika was the ruler of this most beautiful kingdom, which numbered many Gandharvas, Kinnaras, and Apsaras among its citizens. Among the Gandharvas were Lalit and his wife Lalita, who was an especially lovely dancer. These two were intensely attracted to each other, and their home was full of great wealth and fine food.
Lalita loved her husband dearly, and likewise Lalit constantly thought of her within his heart.

Once, at the court of King Pundarika, many Gandharvas were dancing and Lalit was singing alone, without his wife. He could not help thinking about her as he sang, and because of this distraction he lost track of the song's meter and melody. Indeed, Lalit sang the ending of his song improperly, and one of the envious snakes who was in attendance at the king's court complained to the king that Lalit was absorbed in thinking of his wife instead of his sovereign. The king became furious upon hearing this, and his eyes turned crimson with rage.

Suddenly he shouted, 'Oh foolish knave, because you were lustfully thinking of a woman instead of reverently thinking of your king as you performed your court duties, I curse you to at once become a cannibal! Oh king, Lalit immediately became a fearful cannibal, a great man-eating demon whose appearance terrified everyone. His arms were eight miles long, his mouth was as big as a huge cave, his eyes were as awesome as the sun and moon, his nostrils resembled enormous pits in the earth, his neck was a veritable mountain, his hips were four miles wide, and his gigantic body stood a full sixty-four miles high. Thus poor Lalit, the loving Gandharva singer, had to suffer the reaction of his offense against King Pundarika.

Seeing her husband suffering as a horrible cannibal, Lalita became overwhelmed with grief. She thought, 'Now that my dear husband is suffering the effects of the kings' curse, what is to be my lot?
What should I do? Where should I go?'

In this way Lalita grieved day and night.
Instead of enjoying life as a Gandharvas wife, she had to wander everywhere in the thick jungle with her monstrous husband, who had fallen completely under the spell of the king's curse and was wholly engaged in terrible sinful activities.
He wandered fitfully across forbidding region, a once-beautiful Gandharva now reduced to the ghastly behaviour of a man-eater.
Utterly distraught to see her dear husband suffer so much in his dreadful condition, Lalita began to cry as she followed his mad journeying.

By good fortune, however, Lalita came upon the sage Shringi one day.
He was sitting on the peak of the famous Vindhyachala Hill.
Approaching him, she immediately offered the ascetic her respectful obeisances.

The sage noticed her bowing down before him and said, 'Oh most beautiful one, who are you?
Whose daughter are you, and why have you come here? Please tell me everything in truth.

Lalita replied, 'Oh great age, I am the daughter of the great Gandharva Viradhanva, and my name is Lalita.
I roam the forests and plains with my dear husband, whom King Pundarika has cursed to become a man-eating demon.
Oh brahmana, I am greatly aggrieved to see his ferocious form and terribly sinful activities.
Oh master, please tell me how I can perform some act of atonement on behalf of my husband.
What pious act can I perform to free him from this demonic form, Oh best of brahmanas?

'The sage replied, 'Oh heavenly maiden, there is an Ekadasi named Kamada that occurs in the light fortnight of the month of Chaitra.
It is coming up soon.
Whoever fasts on this day has all his desires fulfilled.
If you observe this Ekadasi fast according to its rules and regulations and give the merit you thus earn to your husband, he will be freed from the curse at once.'

Lalita was overjoyed to hear these words from the sage.
Lalita faithfully observed the fast of Kamada Ekadasi according to the instructions of the sage Shringi, and on Dvadasi she appeared before him and the Deity of Lord Vasudeva and said, 'I have faithfully observed the fast of Kamada Ekadasi.
By the merit earned through my observance of this fast, let my husband be free from the curse that has turned him into a demoniac cannibal.
May the merit I have gained thus free him from misery.'

As soon as Lalita finished speaking, her husband, who stood nearby, was at once freed from the king's curse.
He immediately regained his original form as the Gandharva Lalit, a handsome heavenly singer adorned with many beautiful ornaments.
Now, with his wife Lalita, he could enjoy even more opulence than before.
All this was accomplished by the power and glory of Kamada Ekadasi.
At last the Gandharva couple boarded a celestial airplane and ascended to heaven.

Lord Sri Krishna continued, 'Oh Yudhishthira, best of kings, anyone who hears this wonderful narration should certainly observe holy Kamada Ekadasi to the best of his ability, such great merit does it bestow upon the faithful devotee.
I have therefore described its glories to you for the benefit of all humanity.
There is no better Ekadasi than Kamada Ekadasi.
It can eradicate even the sin of killing a brhmana, and it also nullifies demoniac curses and cleanses the consciousness.
In all the three worlds, among movable and immovable living entities, there is no better day'

 

Ekadashi Seva with Mayapur.com

On this sacred day, devotees can offer seva to the Deities of Śrī Mayapur Dhām and receive Their divine blessings. 

Your offerings support the daily worship and devotional services carried out in Śrīdhāma Mayapur — the spiritual capital of the world. 

Take this opportunity to participate in Ekadashi Seva according to your capacity and receive the mercy of the Lord. 

For Ekadashi seva:
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The appearance day of Srivasa Thakur was observed in Mayapur with a full day of devotional activities including darshan, class, abhishek, kirtan, and a drama presentation in the evening.

Srivasa Thakur is one of the members of the Pancha Tattva, the five personalities who appeared with Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to spread the congregational chanting of the holy names. His home played a central role in the early pastimes of Lord Chaitanya. It was there that the Lord would hold nocturnal kirtans with His close associates, gatherings that became the beginning of the saṅkīrtana movement.

These kirtans were not open to everyone. Lord Chaitanya did not allow outsiders to enter because the intense spiritual emotions expressed during these gatherings—such as tears, loud crying, fainting, and other symptoms of ecstasy—could easily be misunderstood by those unfamiliar with devotional life. For this reason, the kirtans at Srivasa Thakur’s home were held as intimate assemblies of the Lord’s close associates.

The courtyard of his home, known today as Srivasa Angan, remains one of the most historically important places connected with these pastimes.

According to Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, Srivasa Thakur is understood to be an incarnation of Narada Muni, the sage known throughout the Vedic literature for constantly glorifying the Lord and inspiring devotion wherever he travels. His younger brother, Ramai Pandit, is described as the incarnation of Parvata Muni, Narada’s close companion.

The morning program began with darshan of the Pancha Tattva, who were dressed in new garments offered for the occasion. The altar decorations followed a theme connected to the idea of transformation through divine association. It was such a sight to behold as the curtains sprang open, revealing such a divine sight, a sight only truly felt by the heart, not just seen by the eyes.

A narration explains the theme:

“As iron becomes gold by the touch of sparśa-maṇi (touchstone), so the body becomes renewed by the entrance of Narada-śakti. When a touchstone touches iron, the iron turns to gold. Parvata Muni once called Narada Muni a touchstone, because by his touch the hunter, who was the lowest among men, became elevated into a perfect Vaiṣṇava.”

In this way, the association of a pure devotee is compared to the touchstone that transforms iron into gold. Because Srivasa Pandit is described as the incarnation of Narada Muni, this idea of spiritual transformation became the inspiration for the decorations. Touchstone motifs were placed throughout the altar decorations, symbolizing how the presence of pure devotional energy can transform the heart.

After the divine darshan of Their Lordships, the program continued with an abhishek ceremony accompanied by bhajans and kirtan.

Within the courtyard of Srivasa Thakur’s house there was once a kalpa-vṛkṣa tree. Devotees would pick flowers from this tree for worship, and it is said that no matter how many flowers were picked, more would continue to appear. Devotees from different places would come there to collect flowers for the worship of the Lord.

In the teachings of Bhaktivinoda Thakur, Srivasa Thakur is also described within the Nāmahaṭṭa system as one of the assistant directors in Navadvipa, helping distribute the “commodity” of love of Krishna. In this description, the exchange is not based on money—the price is faith and devotion, śraddhā and bhakti.

The evening program concluded with a drama depicting the well-known pastime involving Chand Kazi. The performance presented the historical moment when Lord Chaitanya led a large kirtan procession through Navadvipa in response to the attempt to stop congregational chanting.

The day concluded with a special opportunity for everyone present. Devotees were invited to bathe the pandoka of Srivasa Thakur with sacred Ganga water, allowing each person to personally participate in honoring this great associate of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

At the same time, kirtan was taking place at Srivasa Angan, filling the area with the sound of the holy names as devotees gathered together in remembrance of Srivasa Thakur’s service to the saṅkīrtana movement.

It was a day filled with devotion, participation, and reflection, leaving many with a renewed appreciation for the opportunity to honor and remember such exalted personalities.

Hare Krishna Devotees!

Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!

On Wednesday, March 11th, we will be celebrating Srivas Thakur’s appearance day. *Please join us at the temple on this special day for the program at 4pm.*

We welcome all the devotees to come hear the glories of Srivas Thakur and participate in the wonderful service of bathing Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s Padukas with Ganga jal in honour of the appearance day of Srivas Thakur, by whose mercy we can receive the shelter of Lord Krsna’s lotus feet.

All devotees are also welcomed to prepare and bring bhoga for the pleasure of our Lordships Sri Sri Pancatattva.

Please join us to celebrate Srivas Thakur with your friends and families for the mercy of Panchatattva!

We will have space blocked off for all the devotees so that everyone can gather comfortably and take part in the program.

We hope to see you there!

Your servants,

Pancha-tattva festival celebration team

With the Garuda-Dhvaja Flag Lowering Ceremony on March 5th, the auspicious month-long Gaura Purnima Festival 2026 in Sri Mayapur Dham has come to a beautiful close. This sacred period, filled with devotion, kirtan, and service, brought together devotees and well-wishers from all around the world to celebrate the divine appearance of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

Over the past weeks, the dham has been vibrant with spiritual activities and celebrations. The festival season began with the Garuda-Dhvaja Flag Hoisting Ceremony, marking the official start of the festivities. Devotees then participated in the sacred Navadvipa Mandal Parikrama, walking through the nine holy islands of Navadvipa and reliving the divine pastimes of Lord Gauranga.

Throughout the festival, many wonderful events took place, including:
Sravan Utsav and Kirtan Programs
Sri Radha-Madhava Boat Festival
Santipura Festival
Ganga Puja
Gaura Purnima Adhivasa
The Appearance Day of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, celebrated with abhisheka, kirtan, and a grand festival program
Jagannath Misra Festival Feast, honoring the father of Lord Chaitanya
And finally, the Garuda-Dhvaja Flag Lowering Ceremony, marking the conclusion of the celebrations.

This year’s festival was especially inspiring. During the closing ceremony, it was shared that 5,206 sets of Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita were distributed, an increase of 1,300 sets compared to last year. Such wonderful service reflects the growing enthusiasm to share the mercy of Lord Gauranga with the world.

During the final gathering, co-directors and senior leaders offered heartfelt words of gratitude, reflecting on the incredible success of this year’s festival and the collective effort that made it possible.

We would like to take this opportunity to deeply thank all our donors, supporters, friends, and well-wishers who came forward to serve and support the Sri Gaura Purnima Festival 2026. Through your generous contributions—whether through seva, sponsorship, or heartfelt encouragement—you have helped make these celebrations possible for thousands of pilgrims and devotees.

Your support allows these sacred festivals to flourish and ensures that the mercy of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu continues to reach hearts across the world.

We look forward to welcoming you again in the coming festivals and in Gaura Purnima 2027, with even more opportunities to serve, celebrate, and share the joy of devotional life.

Special Gaura Purnima Message 2026
We also invite you to watch this special Gaura Purnima message by Brajavilasa Das.

In this inspiring talk, he reflects on the life, teachings, and unlimited mercy of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who spread the chanting of the Holy Name throughout the world.

He also shares an exciting reminder that the Pancha Tattva and all our beloved Mayapur Deities will be relocated to Their new home in the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium in 2027, the 50th Disappearance Anniversary year of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

Watch the full message here: https://youtu.be/kOcuPZ0Mwz0?si=sLD8d6XJJ3LUI9W6 

Upcoming Events
As we move forward from the wonderful Gaura Purnima festival season, we warmly invite you to stay connected and participate in the upcoming auspicious celebrations in Sri Mayapur Dham.

March 11 – Appearance Day of Srivasa Thakura
March 15 – Papamochani Ekadashi
March 27 – Rama Navami
March 29 – Kamada Ekadashi & Vyasa-puja of Jayapataka Swami

We look forward to welcoming devotees and well-wishers to join these sacred observances and continue celebrating the joy of devotional service together.

Thank you for being part of this divine celebration.

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https://youtu.be/2OlfAmO-KdM

Sri Yudhisthira Maharaja said, "Oh Supreme Lord, I have heard from You the explanation of Amalaki Ekadasi which occurs during the light fortnight of the month of Phalguna (February–March), and now I wish to hear about the Ekadasi that occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Chaitra (March–April). What is its name, Oh Lord, and what results can one attain by observing it?"

The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Sri Krishna, replied, "O best of kings, for the benefit of everyone I shall gladly describe to you the glories of this Ekadasi, which is known as Papamochani. The history of this Ekadasi was once narrated to the Emperor Mandhata by Lomasa Rishi.

King Mandhata addressed the Rishi, 'Oh great sage, for the benefit of all people, please tell me the name of the Ekadasi that occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Chaitra, and please explain the process for observing it. Also, please describe the benefits one gains by observing this Ekadasi.'

"Lomasa Rishi replied, 'The Ekadasi that occurs during the dark part of the month of Chaitra is named Papamochani Ekadasi. For the faithful devotee it removes the influences of ghosts and demons. Oh lion among men, this Ekadasi also awards the eight perfections of life, fulfills all kinds of desires, purifies one's life of all sinful reactions, and makes a person perfectly virtuous.

"'Now please listen to a historical account concerning this Ekadasi and Chitraratha, the chief of the Gandharvas (heavenly musicians). During the spring season, in the company of heavenly dancing girls, Chitraratha once came upon a beautiful forest bursting forth with a great variety of flowers. There he and the girls joined the Gandharvas and many Kinnaras, along with Lord Indra himself, the king of heaven, who was enjoying a visit there. Everyone felt that there was no better garden than this forest. Many sages were also present, performing their austerities and penances. The demigods particularly enjoyed visiting this celestial garden during the months of Chaitra and Vaisakha (April–May).

"'A great sage named Medhavi resided in that forest, and the very attractive dancing girls would always attempt to seduce him. One famous girl in particular, Manjughosha, contrived many ways to allure the exalted Muni, but out of great respect for the sage and fear of his power, which he had attained after years and years of ascetics, she would not come very close to him. At a spot two miles from the sage, she pitched a tent and began singing very sweetly as she played a tamboura. Cupid himself became excited when he saw and heard her perform so nicely and smelled the fragrance of her sandal-paste unguent. He remembered his own unfortunate experience with Lord Shiva and decided to take revenge by seducing Medhavi. (see footnote 1)

"'Using the eyebrows of Manjughosha as a bow, her glances as a bowstring, her eyes as arrows, and her breasts as a target, Cupid approached Medhavi in order to tempt him to break his trance and his vows. In other words, Cupid engaged Manjughosha as his assistant, and when she looked at that powerful and attractive young sage, she also became agitated by lust. Seeing that he was highly intelligent and learned, wearing a clean white brahmana's thread draped across his shoulder, holding a sannyasi's staff, and sitting handsomely in the ashrama of Chyavana Rishi, Manjughosha came before him.

"'She began to sing seductively, and the small bells of her belt and around her ankles, together with the bangles on her wrists, produced a delightful musical symphony. The sage Medhavi was enchanted. He understood that this beautiful young woman desired union with him, and at that instant Cupid increased his attraction for Manjughosha by releasing his powerful weapons of taste, touch, sight, smell, and sound.

"Slowly Manjughosha approached Medhavi, her bodily movements and sweet glances attracting him. She gracefully put her tamboura down and embraced the sage with her two arms, just as a creeper winds itself around a strong tree. Captivated, Medhavi gave up his meditation and decided to sport with her, and instantly his purity of heart and mind abandoned him. Forgetting even the difference between night and day, he went away with her to sport for a long, long time. (see footnote 2)

"'Seeing that the young yogi's sanctity had become seriously eroded, Manjughosha decided to abandon him and return home. She said, "O great one, please permit me to return home."

"'Medhavi replied, "But you have only just arrived, O beautiful one. Please stay with me at least until tomorrow."

"'Fearful of the sage's yogic power, Manjughosha stayed with Medhavi for precisely fifty-seven years, nine months, and three days, but to Medhavi all this time seemed like a moment. Again she asked him, "Please permit me to leave."

"'Medhavi replied, "O dear one, listen to me. Stay with me for one more night, and then you may leave tomorrow morning. Just stay with me until I have performed my morning duties and chanted the sacred Gayatri mantra. Please wait until then."

"Manjughosha was still fearful of the sage's great yogic power, but she forced a smile and said, "How long will it take you to finish your morning hymns and rituals? Please be merciful and think of all the time you have already spent with me."

"The sage reflected on the years he had been with Manjughosha and then said with great astonishment, "Why, I have spent more than fifty-seven years with you!" His eyes turned red and began to emanate sparks. He now regarded Manjughosha as death personified and the destroyer of his spiritual life. "You rascal woman! You have turned all the hard-earned results of my austerities to ashes! Trembling with anger, he cursed Manjughosha, "Oh sinful one, Oh hard-hearted, degraded one! You know only sin! May all terrible fortune be yours! Oh rascal woman, I curse you to become an evil hobgoblin — pishacha!"

"'Cursed by the sage Medhavi, the beautiful Manjughosha humbly beseeched him, "Oh best of the brahmanas, please be merciful to me and revoke your curse! Oh great one, it is said that association with pure devotees gives immediate results, but their curses take effect only after seven days. I have been with you for fifty-seven years, Oh master, so please be kind to me!"

"'Medhavi Muni replied, "Oh gentle lady, what can I possibly do? You have destroyed all my austerities. But even though you have done this sinful deed, I shall tell you a way you can be released from my wrath. In the dark fortnight of the month of Chaitra there is an all-auspicious Ekadasi that removes all one's sins. Its name is Papamochani, Oh beautiful one, and whoever fasts on this sacred day becomes completely freed from having to take birth in any kind of devilish form."

"'With these words, the sage left at once for his father's ashrama. Seeing him enter the hermitage, Chyavana Muni said, "Oh son, by acting unlawfully you have squandered the wealth of your penances and austerities."

"Medhavi replied, "Oh Father, kindly reveal what atonement I must perform to remove the obnoxious sin I have incurred by privately associating with the dancing girl Manjughosha."

"Chyavana Muni answered, "Dear son, you must fast on Papamochani Ekadasi, which occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Chaitra. It eradicates all sins, no matter how grievous they may be."

"Medhavi followed his father's advice and fasted on Papamochani Ekadasi. Thus all his sins were destroyed, and he again became filled with excellent merit. Similarly, Manjughosha observed the same fast and became free of the hobgoblin curse. Ascending once again to the heavenly spheres, she too returned to her former position."

Lomasha Rishi continued, "Thus, Oh king, the great benefit of fasting on Papamochani Ekadasi is that whoever does so with faith and devotion will have all his sins completely destroyed."

Sri Krishna concluded, "Oh King Yudhishthira, whoever reads or hears about Papamochani Ekadasi obtains the very same merit he would get if he donated a thousand cows in charity, and he also nullifies the sinful reactions he may have incurred by killing a brahmana, killing an embryo through abortion, drinking liquor, or having sex with his guru's wife. Such is the incalculable benefit of properly observing this holy day of Papamochani Ekadasi, which is so dear to Me and so meritorious."

Thus ends the narration of the glories of Chaitra-Krishna Ekadasi, or Papamochani Ekadasi, from the Bhavishya-uttara Purana.

Footnotes

After Lord Shiva lost his dear wife Sati at the sacrificial arena of Prajapati Daksha, Shiva destroyed the entire arena. Then he brought his father-in-law Daksha back to life by giving him the head of a goat, and finally he sat down to meditate for sixty thousand years. Lord Brahma, however, arranged for Kamadeva (Cupid) to come and break Shiva's meditation. Using his arrows of sound, taste, touch, sight, and smell, Cupid attacked Shiva, who at last awoke from his trance. He was so angry at being disturbed that he instantly burned Cupid to ashes with a glance from his third eye. Back to the story.

Female association is so powerful that a man forgets his time, energy, possessions, and even his own identity. As it is said in the Niti-shastra, striya charitram purushasya bhagyam daivo vijanati kuto manushyah: "Even the demigods cannot predict the behavior of a woman. Nor can they understand the fortune of a man or how it will determine his destiny." According to Yajnavalkya Muni, "A (celibate) person who desires spiritual life should give up all association with women, including thinking of them, seeing them, talking with them in a secluded place, taking service from them, or having sexual intercourse with them." Back to the story.

25th of February was a normal day. Maharaj was in a nice mood; we went to Mangal arti and came back to the apartment at the MVT for chanting. Maharaj told me that he will not go to Srimad Bhagavatam class today. Later, as usual, he gave me some errands to run. He had his breakfast Prasad while I went to the restaurant to have mine. Maharaj also told me to contact our usual auto/toto driver, Gopal, since he wanted to go to Loi Bazaar to settle some bills and to get some first class rose and sandal incenses.

So, after 2:30 pm, we set out for Loi Bazaar. We went to Ganga Prasad shop first and then to Radha Rasabiharilal to settle those bills. Then we went to Ranganath temple because Maharaj wanted some south Indian style lamps. We looked for those in the shops in front of the temple, but with no success. Then Maharaj said we will have darshan of Ranganath in the temple. Gopal told Maharaj that if we go from the front gate, we will have to walk a lot while from the back gate, there is less to walk.

However, Maharaj insisted on going from the front gate; he said that darshan of the Supreme Lord is not cheap; one has to take some trouble to go to see the Lord. With that mood, we started to walk through the gates of the temple and Maharaj felt a bit exhausted by doing so. He told me that he will not be able to walk that distance back, so I should tell the driver to come pick us up from the back gate. We had darshan and Maharaj gave a donation of Rs 1000. On our way back, Maharaj was feeling uncomfortable. He wanted to go back to the MVT but we still had to get the incense. We went back to Loi Bazaar, got samples of the incenses and then we came back to the MVT.

Once at the apartment, Maharaj said he will rest. I asked him about Prasad; he told me he will not eat anything now. Maharaj was also planning to go for a “motorized” Govardhan parikrama (as he calls it) the next day at 6:30 am. I asked Maharaj about breakfast Prasad for the next day; he said to get anything I like, he will think about it the next day itself. I had dinner Prasad, packed something for the next day and came back to the apartment. I checked on Maharaj; he was sleeping and I went to my room. At night, Maharaj called me and asked for some juice from the fridge. I gave him, he drank and went to bed again.

The next day, on the 26th of February, I woke up for mangal arti, got ready and saw that Maharaj was still resting. I preferred not to disturb him and started chanting in my room. At around 5 a.m., I went to check on Maharaj again and saw that he was still resting and did not seem well. So, I called the MVT manager and told him that Maharaj will not be able to go on parikrama; hence we will not need the car.

Later Maharaj walked to the kitchen to have juice; I helped him to get the juice and back to his bed. During the day, Maharaj would be resting and he would be calling my name every 30 minutes or every hour. And when I would go to see him and tell him that I am here, he would say nothing. Sometimes, he would struggle to sit and I would help him. Many times, I could hear him taking the Names of Krishna. During my service to Maharaj for many years, we had had such episodes, even more severe. But Maharaj always managed to recover.

In the evening, I went to get Prasad from the restaurant at around 7 pm. I got the Prasad packed and came back to the apartment at around 7:30 pm. I checked on Maharaj and he appeared to be resting peacefully. I had my Prasad and then went to see some devotees who came from Bareilly. I came back to the apartment at 8:30 pm and took some rest on the couch outside of Maharaj’s room. Normally, when Maharaj was sick like that, I used to sleep just outside his room when we would be in Vrindavan.

After a short while, I was intrigued that Maharaj had not been calling me for quite a long time. This was around 9 pm. I went in Maharaj’s room and called him. I shook him gently and saw that he was not responding. I felt something was really wrong and I was overcome by fear and confusion. I called Sankarshan Prabhu, a devotee from San Diego, who came to give Maharaj some Lakshmi for Radha Giridhari’s silver paraphernalia that Maharaj wanted to be made. He came and checked his pulse, but there was no sign of any heartbeat.

I went to the reception to ask if any doctor could come. The receptionist gave me a number but no one picked the call. Then I called Pancagauda Prabhu and told him about the situation. He said that he will be sending some devotees. I also informed HH Bhakti Anugraha Janardana Maharaj. After a short while, a doctor came and confirmed that Maharaj had left his body.

Maharaj was so immersed in the service of Sri Sri Radha Giridhari and of Srila Prabhupada. He was always thinking about giving the best to Their Lordships and he never missed an opportunity for sharing Prabhupada’s pastimes. He came to India after 2 years to finally go back to the eternal pastimes of Sri Sri Radha Giridhari.

HH Badrinarayan Swami Maharaj ki jay!
Srila Prabhupada ki jay!