Today, here in Mayapur, we celebrated the 1st Disappearance Anniversary of H.H. Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj.

It feels like it was only yesterday that we were struck by the news of Maharaj's departure — a moment we weren’t prepared for. Yet, isn't it so remarkable how Krishna has His perfect timing in calling back His dear devotees? 

Maharaj’s life is a shining example of how a true Vaishnava should live. Anyone who visited Mayapur would often see Maharaj attending Mangal Arati — whether at the Sri Narasimhadeva altar, Pancha Tattva, or Sri Sri Radha Madhava's altar — regardless of the challenges Maharaj faced with his health.

During major festivals, especially Gaura Purnima, Maharaj would always make the effort to be present among us, embodying the true spirit of a Vaishnava by his humble and devoted lifestyle.

This year’s Gaura Purnima felt very different without Maharaj physically present. Yet, deep in our hearts, we know he is still keeping an eye on all of us, guiding us silently.  We pray that we can genuinely imbibe his glorious example in our own lives.

The Art of Dying 

Srila Prabhupada taught us the sacred Art of Dying, and H.H. Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj is the perfect living example of it.

In Kartik 2023, Maharaj personally visited the Vaishnava Samadhi area at ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Gaushala, Sri Vrindavan Dham, to humbly select the location for his own Samadhi. After entering his Nitya Lila, Maharaj was placed exactly where he had desired — amidst the Samadhis of other great Vaishnavas and Vaishnavis.

For ordinary people, the thought of death brings fear. But pure devotees live in such a way that even in their passing, they become shining examples for the whole world. 

Srila Prabhupada explained it beautifully:

The kitten feels pleasure: “Oh, my mother is carrying me.”

The deer feels terror: “Oh, now I’m going to die.”

Though both devotees and non-devotees leave their bodies, the feeling is worlds apart.

Today's Celebration Schedule in Mayapur: 

Venue: TOVP Pujari Floor

Date: 25th April 2025 (Friday)

Schedule:

10:30 am – 10:45 am: Vaishnava Songs & Kirtan

10:45 am – 11:00 am: Video lecture by H.H. Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj

11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Glorifications by Srila Prabhupada’s Disciples, Senior Leaders & Devotees

Special glorification video by Prabhupada disciples

1:00 pm: Bhoga Offering & Life Journey Video of H.H. Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj

1:30 pm: Pushpanjali & Arati

2:00 pm: Sumptuous Lunch Prasadam

Maharaj, we miss you dearly. We pray to carry forward your legacy of service, humility, and unwavering devotion.