KARNANANDA

By Yadunandana Dasa

FIRST EXTRACT

I offer my obeisances to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, the ocean of kindness, Nityananda Prabhu, the friend of the distressed, Advaita Acarya, who is most merciful, and to Srivasa Thakura, as well as all the devotees of Mahaprabhu. I pray for the blessings of Sri Rupa and Santana, who deeply love mankind, and Sri Gopala Bhatta, who is a reservoir of love and devotion. May Raghunatha Bhatta and Raghunatha Dasa, who lived on the bank of Radha kunda, also bestow their mercy upon me. I bow to the compassionate Jiva Gosvami, and Sri Acarya Prabhu, whose devotion knows no bounds. My obeisances to Ramacandra Kaviraja and Govinda whose devotional characteristics charmed the whole world. Lastly, I request the blessings and kindness of Sri Vaisnava Gosvami, who is the deliverer of sinners.

Now hear attentively, oh listeners, as I describe how Mahaprabhu empowered two exalted personalities to deliver mankind. Sri Rupa Gosvami was empowered by the Lord to write innumerable devotional books. To distribute these valuable literatures, the Lord empowered Srinivasa Acarya. Thus, by the mercy of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu the whole world became fortunate enough to enjoy reading these books. I offer my humble obeisances to my generous and kind spiritual master, Srinivasa Acarya, who is as munificient as a kalpavrksa tree. Srinivasa Acarya appeared in this world to deliver distressed mankind. Sri Ramacandra Kaviraja was endowed with extraordinary devotional qualities and was a branch of the tree of Srinviasa. Sri Govinda Kaviraja, brother of Sri Ramachandra Kaviraja, was also a highly qualified person. Sri Govinda Chakravarti was considered to be another branch of that tree. Apart from these three, there were many other highly qualified persons who were considered to be brahches of this same tree. There were also many twigs such as Sri Balarama Kaviraja. Gradually the branches and twigs of this tree spread throughtout the world.

From this tree bloomed the flowers of purely divine thought and the world became filled with its sweet heavenly fragrance. From these flowers, the sweet fruits of pure divine love and devotion grew. In this way Srinivasa Acarya took the form of a huge tree, bedecked with flowers, and in this way spread the teachings of Mahaprabhu throughout Gauda by publishing and distributing books. Now oh, listeners, try to water this tree by listening attentively to these discriptions. The sweet taste of the fruits of this tree can only be tasted by one who is devoid of pride. Sri Rupa Gosvami and Santana Gosvami also published many books, as well as Sri Bhatta Gosvami and Raghunatha Dasa. The books written by Sri Jiva Gosvami were added much flavour by Sri Kaviraja. Receiving all these books, Srinivasa gladly distributed them in Gaura. Just as the wind carries the clouds, Srinivasa swept away the cloud like books from the hills of Vraja to the land of Gauda. There the cloud like books showered the ground of Gauda with divine love. Thus suffereing mankind, which were like grains suffering from the bright rays of the sun (kaliyuga), were relieved by the rain of nectar. Thus all the devotees happily danced like peacocks.

When Srinivasa Acarya established himself at Yajigrama, all his devoted Vaishnava followers assembled there daily. They listened intently as Prabhu explained the meaning of love and devotion. In this way he helped to rid the devotees of their pride of knowledge. After some time, at the request of the Vaisnava's, Srinivasa married his first wife. Some time later he accepted his second wife. Daily the devotees would assemble and listen to discourses on such books as Bhaktirasamrtasindhu, Vidagdha madhava, Lalita Madhava, Haribhaktivilasa, Dasamacarita, mathura Mahatmya, Bhagavata, Gita, Virudabali, Mukta Carita, Krsna Karnamrita, Brahmasangita, and Gopi Premamrita, etc. In this way the devotees remained submerged in the ocean of love throught the day and night. They spent half of the day performing harinama and the other half of the day reading these books. They used to spend two hourse singing the names of Radhakrsna, Govinda, etc. as well as singing songs composed by Chandidasa and Sri Gita Govinda by Vidyapati.

In the evening Srinivasa Acarya Prabhu discussed various topics related to Vaisnava religion and culture. During the day, he worshiped the Salagrama Sila and the Tulasi tree with great devotion. Throughout the day he was absorbed in Radha Krsna name. Sometimes while chanting he would shout out the names of Rupa and Sanatana, while at other times he wept at the memory of Sri Radha kunda. Sometimes he burst into loud lamentation, thinking of Sri Girigovardhana. In this way he spent his day and night fully immersed in devotional love. Religous persons took great pleasure in observing his activities, while the impious laughed at him.

Listen attentively as I attempt to describe the followers of Sri Acarya Prabhu who were also very famous for their devotion. Thakura Mahasaya gave a descrition of the followers of Sri Acarya Prabhu, and Kavi Karnapura noted this in a book. I was ordered by my Prabhu to write the slokas written by the above mentioned persons, in the form of payare (a metrical system of Bengali poetry in which each line consists of fourteen letters). I accepted the order of my guru, but hesitated to begin the work. After a few days, Prabhu again ordered me to take up this task. Being an unqualified and ignorant person, I felt very anxcious about executing this order. Nevertheless, I gathered confidence from the blessings of Prabhu, as well as all the Vaisnavas. I simply pray at the feet of the devotees to forgive me for any mistakes I may make in this attempt.

One day when Srinivasa Acarya Prabhu was sitting on the bank of a pond to the west of his house, when he saw a marriage party passing near his house. The bride groom, who was carried by a dola, was extrememly attractive. His skin was the color of a golden ketaki flower, his hands were long, with shoulders like that of a lion. His navel was deep, silky curling hair, reddish feet and palms, nose sharp and high, teeth beautifully set, and his face was like the full moon. His lips were reddish like the bimba fruit, his eyes like lotus petals, neck like a conch, slender waist, and well shaped thighs. He wore a silk dress and a garland of flowers. His body was adorned with sandalwood paste. With great curiosity Srinivasa tried to discover his identity. Srinivasa thought to himself, "Is he the son of a Gandharva, or Kamadeva himself? Such a beautiful person should certainly utilize his life in the service of Lord Krsna, otherwise what is the use of such extraordinary beauty."

Srinivasa inquired about the bridegroom from some members of the marriage party, and was informed that the youngman was Sri Ramacandra Kaviraja, a great scholar whose qualities equaled those of Brihaspati or Sarasvati. He belonged to a good Vaidya family, was a famous physician, and was formerly a resident of Kumaranagara. After obtaining this information, Srinivasa returned to his house, and Ramacandra, who had overheard Srinivasa's enquiries, returned to his place.

Ramacandra spent the night in a brahmana's house, thinking deeply about Srinivasa Prabhu. In the morning he came running to Srinivasa and fell at his feet crying loudly. Overwhelmed with emotion, he begged the blessings of Prabhu. Srinivasa lovingly lifted him from the ground and embraced im warmly. Sri Acarya emotionally confessed that they had a long-deeped rooted relationship and were meeting again after a long separation. Thus Srnivasa gave Krsnanama in his ear and sang Radha Krsna lila to him. He also assisted him in the study of Vaisnava literatures, and blessed him to become an earnest lover and devotee of Lord Krsna. Srinivasa told Ramacandra about the glories of Narottama Thakura, and instructed him to go to meet him in Vrndavana. Thus, in due course of time, Narottama and Ramacandra (Krsnadasa??) became such good friends that people considered them like one soul.

Srinivasa Acarya also favored Sri Govinda Kaviraja, the younger brother of Ramacandra, and accepted him as his disciple. These two brothers were considered to be parama bhagavatas, filled with devotional love. Sri Acarya directed Govinda to compose songs on the divine separation of Lord Krsna and Radha. Srinivasa also blessed the wives of the two brothers, as well the highly fortunate Divya Simha.

Srinivasa's first wife, Srimati Isvari Thakurani, was a highly devotional lady. Gaurangapriya, his second wife, also possesed exalted devotional qualities. Their sweet disposition and efforts in worshiping the Deities were highly commendable (they worshiped according to the process of suddha raganuga. They were not particularly attracted to parkaiya vada). They worshiped the Lord with great sincerity, devoid of interest in karma or jnana. In due course of time many persons became disciples of Srinivasa and his wives. The eldest son of Sri Acarya was Sri Vrndavana Acarya, second son was Sri Radhakrsna Acarya, and the youngest son was Sri Govindagati. Each of them was highly qualified in the study of Vaisnava scriptures and received the favor of their father.

In the Sri Guru pranali slokas written by Govindagati he describes himself like a bumble bee always flying around the lotus feet of Sri Krsna Caitanya. He explains in these verses that Sri Gopala Bhatta Gosvami highly favored Sri Acarya Prabhu, and he himself received the favor of Sri Acarya. Being a Mahanta, Sri Govindagati had many disciples of his own.

With the blessings of her father, Sri Hemalata, Srinivasa's daughter, also became the spiritual guide of many disciples. Srinivasa also his next two daughters, Sri Krsnapriya Thakurani and Danchana Latika. Sridama Thakura of Dancana Garia was a great scholar and was fortunate enough to spend most of his time in the company of Srinivasa Acarya. The three sons of Sridama, Sri Krsna, Jagadisa, and Shyama Vallavacarya, were also great scholars and received the mercy of Sri Iswari. Sri Gokuladasa regularly carried water from the river for Lord Krsna's service and thus received the favor of Srinivasa. The fair complexioned son of Gokuldasa, Sri Krsna Vallava Thakura was blessed by Srinivasa when he was a mere boy. In his later life he became a devout Bagavata and had many disciples. Sri Nrsimha Kaviraja and Sri Raghunathadasa were other recipients of the mercy of Prabhu. Sri Ramakrsna Chattaraja, who was always engaged in chanting the holy name, was another branch of Srinivasa's tree. His son, Sri Gopijana Vallava Chattaraja became a famous in the Vaisnava world, as Prabhu gave his own daughter, Hemalata, to him in marriage. Sri Kumuda Chattaraja always served Srinivasa like a menial servant. Sri Acarya offered his daughter, Sri Krsnapriya, to Sri Kumuda's devout son, Sri Caitanyakshan Chattaraja. The son-in-law of Chattaraja, Sri Rajendra Bandhapadhyaya was a great devotee who was constantly engaged in hearing the nectar of Radha Krsna lila. He was always eager to serve Srinivasa Prabhu and to sing Harinama. The daughters of Chattaraja, Sri Malati and Sri Phulji Thakurani, were blessed by Prabhu. Kalanidhi Chattaraja, a favorite devotee of Sri Caitanya, was ordered by Srinivasa to utter one lac harinama daily. Srinivasa favorite servant was Sri Vrndavana Chattaraja. Prabhu also favored Sri Gopaladasa, a Varna vipra by caste, and ordered him to delvier the people of his own class. As per the order of Prabhu, all his disciples in Kanchanagadia decided to chant one lakh of holy names daily. They used to perform this task not during the day, but at night. There practice was to tie their hair with a string to the roof of the cottage to check themselves from falling asleep. Srinivasa had such great love for them, and they also for him, that they never wanted to leave the vicinity.

Sri Gopimohana dasa of Mirjapura was a disciple of Gokuladasa Thakura, and Shyamadas of Khadagrama was a follower of Sri Gopimohana. Srinivasa favored Govinda Charavarti, who became famous for his worship when he was a young boy.

Bhavaka Chakravarti of Borakuli village was an emobidment of devotional love and had many disciples. His wife, Sucharita, was an intelligent woman and received the favor of Sri Iswari. It was her practice to chant one lac of japa daily and regularly discuss the pastimes of Mahaprabhu.

The eldest son of Thakurani, Sri Rajavallava Chakravarti, was a man of high qualities and a great devotee of Srinivasa. Her other two son, Sri Radhavinoda and Sri Kishanidasa, took mantra from their mother. Sri Karnapura Kaviraja was also blessed by Srinivasa, and had many disciples of his own. Prabhu initiated kVyasa as his disciple and educated him in many mysterious doctrines of Vaisnavism. Many branches and twigs grew from him. They were all known as parama bhagavatas. Sri Vamsidasa Thakura was one of these branches. He was one of Srinivasa's favorite devotees, and was also absorbed in singing Harinama. Sri Gopaladasa Thakura was also one of the favorite followers of Prabhu. Sri Krsna Kirtanity of Vundhaipara was a famous kirtana singer. Even stones would melt upon hearing his beautiful glorification of Radha Krsna's pastimes.

Sri Rupa Ghataka was another dear servant of Prabhu. He had no other activity other than chanting the holy name of the Lord continuously. Srinivasa also offered the title of "Ghataka" to Sri Raghunandana dasa. These two Ghatakas were always engaged in the service of Srinivasa Acarya.

Sri Sudhakara Mandala and his wife, Sri Syamapriya, received the mercy of Srinivasa. Their son, Sri Radhavallava Mandala was always engrossed in singing Harinama. Kamdeva Mandala was also similarly engaged, and Gopala Mandala was known for his faith in Prabhu. Both of them received the blessings of Srinivasa.

The two fathers-in-law of Srinivasa were pure hearted souls. One of them, Sri gopala Charavarti, was also busy serving Srinvasa and used to shed tears while dancing in kirtana. Srinivasa also favored his other father-in-law, Sri Raghunandana Chakravarti, as well as the two brothers-in-law. The elder brother, Syamadasa, was an exalted devotee and could beautifully recite from the Bhagavata. The younger brother, Sri Ramacarana Chakravarti, was very dear to Srinivasa. He used to dance madly and cry during the kirtana recitals.

Another favorite follower of Srinivasa was Krsnadasa Chatta. He had strong faith in the holy name of the Lord. Vanamali Dasa, born of a Vadiya family, was another devoted servant of Prabhu. Sri Mahanadasa, who also came from a Vaidya family was engaged in naisthik bhajan and was the most favorite follower of Prabhu. Sri Radhavallava Dasa, Sri Mathura Dasa, Sri Radhakrsna Dasa, Sri Ramana Dasa, and Ramadasa were all devout followers of Srinivasa Acarya.

Sri Kavi Vallava a devoted servant of Srinivasa, he was famous for his nice handwriting and dedicated many of his own books to Prabhu. The father of Vanamali Dasa, Sri Gopaladasa, was another great devotee who received the blessings of Srinivasa, as well as parama bhagavata, Sri Syamadasa Chatta. Sri Atmarama became completely indifferent to worldly affairs and became a disciple of Prabhu. Sri Kumudananda Thakura, Sri Rama Dasa Thakura, Sri Radhavallabha Thakura were all great devotees who attained the blessings of Sri Acarya. Sri Gokulanandadasa Chakravarti, Sri Gokulananda Dasa, Sri gopala Thakura, and Sri Syamadasa of the Chatta family were all favored by Srinivasa.

Once Srinivasa Acarya Prabhu took a journey to Sri Purusottama, carrying the books of the Gosvamis. One night he halted at a village. At that time a gang of bandits saw him and mistook the parcel he carried to be valuable jewels, thus they stole the precious books.

To protest this action, Srinivasa went to the court of the king. At that time one brahmana named Sri Rama Chakravarti happened to be explaining topics from the Puranas to the king. The king was pleased with his discourse and offered him the title of "Acarya". The brahmana then read from the Bhramara Gita. Standing off to the side, Srinivasas listened to the brahmana defective explanations. Finally, Srinivasa entered into the court and corrected the brahmanas mistakes. The king was charmed by Sri Acarya's explanations and requested him to explain further. Srinivasa then went gave a beautiful dissertation based on the conclusions of the Gosvamis of Vrndavana. The king, having never heard such a scholarly and devotion presentation, was overwhelmed with joy and immediately fell at the feet of Srinivasa and humbly begged for his blessings. Srinivasa showered his mercy on the Mala King Sri Vira Hamvira, giving him the name of Krsna. In turn Vira Hamvira offered all his properties to Sri Acarya. Thereafter many of the residents of Vanavisnupura became the disciples of Srinivasa.

Two brothers belonging to Sri Karava's family used to write letter of ten to Prabhu and thus earned the title of Visvasa. The elder brother, Sri Ganakirama Dasa and the younger one, Prasada Dasa, became great devotees of Srinivasa. They were formerly known as Majumdar by title, but after receiving the blessings of Srinivasa they were known as Visvasa.

Sri Vallavi Kavi considered himself most fortunate, having received the favor of Srinivasa. He uttered the holy names lacs of times and never drank water until completeing this task. Sri Vallavi surrendered all his properties and his family to the service of Srinivasa. Thus he remained n the association of Prabhu constantly. The two elder brothers of Sri Vallavi Kavi, Sri Ramadasa and Sri Gopala dasa, also dedicated themselves to the service of Sri Acarya.

Sri Krsna Vallava Thakura lived in the village of Deuli, where Srinivasa visited first after the theft of the books. He was extremely dear to Srinivasa, as it was he who heard of the recovering of the books robbed by the bandits, which greatly relieved Srinivasa. Prabhu visited the king with him and reclaimed the lost books. Being extremely satisfied with Krsna Vallava, Sri Acarya placed his feet on his head and blessed him in the name of Sri Radharamana, Sri Govinda Ji, Sri Madanamahana, Sri Gopinatha, Rupa Sanatana, Sri Gopala Bhatta, Sri Jiva, Sri Raghunatha Bhatta, Sri Raghunatha Dasa, Sri Krsnadasa, and Lokanatha Gosvami. He prayed that by the good wishes of all these Gosvamis, Vallavi Kaviraja would succeed in attaining the priceless gem of devotional love. Pleased with Vallavi, Srinivasa stayed a few more days with him.

When Srinivasa visited the king again, Virahamvira fell flat at the feet of Prabhu. Srinivasa took his seat and coversed with the king about the divine topics of Lord Krsna. Virahamvira was filled with joy to have the darsana and blessings of Srinivasa. Thereafter Prabhu returned home.

That night the king dreamt of Srinivasa and Kalachanda. In his dream the king loudly spoke some lines of poetry describing the divine beauty of Prabhu and Kalachanda. The queen awoke from her sleep and heard the lines of poetry which the king was reciting and she spent the night weeping. When the king awoke, he was still absorbed in thinking of the lotus feet of Prabhu. in his absorption, he cried loudly, calling out the names of Sri Rupa, Sanatana and Sri Bhatta Gosvami. He lamented pitifully having lost the vision in his dream. But even in his wakeful state he could clearly recall the figure of Srinivasa beckoning him to worship the Deity which he had seen in his dream. While the king was absorbed in this ecstatic remembrance, Pattadevi fell at his feet and requested him to again recite the lines of poetry. When the king denied, the queen begged him again and again. The king then relented. He confessed that he no longer hankered after the joy of royal prestige and riches. These things appeared to him now as poison. Now he had found true nectar, by the mercy of Srinivasa Acarya, who was his life and soul. By his grace only, was he able to become a servant of Radha and Krsna and observe their divine pastimes in the groves of Vraja. With great emotion the king revealed that his mind again and again wanted to fly to the bank of the Yamuna in Vraja where his Lord Krsna enjoyed the company of Sri Radha. He described the state of mind and condition of Radha when she was bereft of Krsna's company. Having lost Kala (Krsna), Radha's heart burned incessantly in the fire of separation. She was unable to calm herself. She smeared the paste of aguru over her entire body, yet was unable to cool her burning heart. She was so restless that she was unable to perform her household duties. She would simply sit on the bank of the Yamuna, hoping to see Krsna again. Due to this behavior of Sri Radha, her mother-in-law and sister-in-law rebuked her and her husband became indifferent to her. The king further explained that his deepest desire was to serve the lotus feet of Kalachanda, by the mercy of Srinivasa.

Pattadevi was overwhelmed by her husband's realisation and requested the king to help her to become a disciple of Srinivasa. The king could understand by his wives fervent emotions, that she had already received the blessings of Prabhu.

Virahamvira happily went before Srinivasa and reported everything to him. Patta Mahadevi ran to the feet of Srinivasa, earnestly requesting him to give her diksa. Observing the queen’s sincerity, Srinivasa was greatly pleased. He first poured Harinama in their ears and then gave them Radha Krsna mantra. He directed them to worship by the method of Kamabija and Gayatribija. They were also instructed to serve a Tulasi manjari lovingly because without the performing these various practices, no one could attain the essence of parakiya lila and rasa in the abode of Vraja. They were further directed to worship with a pure mind and pure devotion if they desired to attain the divine favour of Radha and Krsna. They were also told to listen intently to kirtana and to worship the feet of the Vaisnavas. Srinivasa Acarya also favored the prince, Sri Raja Hamvira.

Thereafter, the king installed the Deity of Kalachand. Srinivasa Acarya personally performed the abhiseka ceremony for the installation. The king wished to serve the Vaisnavas everyday. Knowing his intention, Sri Jiva Gosvami sent Sri Gopala Dasa who came to stay there. Srinivasa appointed Sri Vyasa as the salaried worshiper of the Deity. Sri Acarya also cast his mercy upon the wife of Sri Vyasa, Sri Indumukhi Thakurani, and his son, Sri Syamadasa Chakravarti.

Srinivasa favored the great scholar Bhagavana Kavi, as well as the devoted worshipers of Krsna, Sri Narayana Kavi and Narsimha kaviraja. Sri Vasudeva Kaviraja also became a devotee of Prabhu. Sri Vrndavana dasa, who was famous for his title of "Kaviraja", also became a disciple of Sri Acarya. Nimai Kaviraja, the brother of Rupa Kaviraja, received the mercy of Srinivasa. He chanted harinama in lacs every day and danced madly during the kirtana rectitals. Sriman Chakravarti, being indifferent to worldly pleasures, took shelter under the protection of Srinivasa. Prabhu favored Raghunandana Thakura and Gaurangadasa, who was a man endowed with divine qualities. He would cite Harinama constantly, remembering the lotus feet of Radha Krsna. He used to ecstatically shout the names of Rupa and Sanatana and cry madly in remembrance of Bhatta Gosvami. He was fully absorbed in the memory of Sri Gauranga and his own Prabhu.

Srimanta Thakura, who belonged to a brahmana family, was another disciple of Prabhu. He favored Sri Gopijana Vallava who used to become ecstatic while chanting the name of Sri Krsna Caitanya. Sri Tulasiramadasa, belonging to a weaver class, always thought of the grace of Prabhu and would immediately become ecstatic upon chanting the name of Sri Gauranga. Sri Balaramadasa, a brahmana from Utkaladesa, lost all interest in worldly pleasure upon meeting Sri Acarya. The brahmana Dayarama Choudhury lived with Sri Balaramadasa in the same village. They both dedicated themselves fully to the feet of Srinivasa. Sri Hari Vallava Sarkara and Krsna Vallava Chakravarti became disciples of Prabhu. Sri Krsna Purahita and Syama Chatta of Gaudadesa were great devotees of Srinivasa who later attained many disciples of their own. Sri Jayarama Charavarti of Ekatra was another famous devotee, and Thakuradasa Thakura also became Srinivasa's disciple. Sri Mathuradasa of Mathura was born of a brahmana family, and Sri Syamasundara Dasa was a simple-minded brahmana who regularly chanted Harinama in lacs daily. Sri Atmarama from Ekatraya received the blessings of Srinivasa. Vrndavanadasa of Sri Vrndavana was a man endowed with extremely devotional qualities and was a favorite disciple of Prabhu. Sri Govindarama and Sri Gopala Dasa of Ektraya were also devoted disciples.

Sri Mohanadasa, Vrajanandadasa, and Sri Ramadasa of Sri Kunda were three celebrated servants of Srinivasa. Sri Rasikanandadasa, Sri Hariprasada, and Sukhananda Dasa of Sri Govardhana, as well as Premi Harinama and Muktaramadas were Srinivasa's devoted disciples who used to dance and sing harinama together. Bajanahari was another disciple. Rama Kalanidhi, from a brahmana family in Vangadesa, had the title of Acarya. Sri Rama Sarana, Premadasa, and Rasikadasa were dedicated devotees, always eager to serve the Vaisnavas.

I am unqualified to sufficiently describe how many persons from Visnupura, as well as from Prabhu's own country, received initiation from Srinivasa. Many people from different countries such as Radha, Vangadesa, Gaudadesa, Vrajabhumi, Magadha, Utkaldesa, Baragangapara, Vindhya Kandhala and the places near the Ganges took initiation from Sri Acarya. Those who attentively hear these description can easily attain the ecstacy of Krsna bhakti. Sri Hemalata, the daugher of Srinivasa, was a great Vaisnavi. Bowing to her lotus feet, I, Yadunandanadasa attempt to distribute the essence of Karnananda to every listener.

SECOND EXTRACT

Taking the blessings of Sri Krsna Caitanya, Nityananda, Advaitacandra, and all the devotees of Gaura, the poet continues to discuss the tree of Srinivasa Acarya, along with its branches and twigs. He shall now describe the twigs emanating from the branch of Ramacandra Kaviraja.

The brahmana Sri Vallava Majumdara, and the great scholar Harinama Acarya both received the blessings of Kaviraja. Harinama's son, Sri Gopikanta Charavarti, was also a devotee of Kaviraja and an earnest devotee like his father. Another disciple of Kaviraja was Balarama Kavipati, a man of extraordinary devotion. All the disciples of Kaviraja were constantly engaged in delivering mankind from the suffering of material existence.

For his own purification, the poet attempts to describe the disciples of Sri Iswari. Jaya Krsnacarya, Sri Jagadisacarya, and Syama Vallavacarya were three great acaryas who were disciples of Sri Iswari. The women of the above mentioned family were highly devoted to Sri Iswari. They were always engaged in doing good for humanity, as well as constantly singing the holy name throughout the day and night. They never drank water until they had completed the chanting of lacs of Harinama. Among them the elder was Sri Satyabama Thakurani, and the younger was Sri Candramukhi. They were always absorbed in discussing the hymns which they had learned from Sri Iswari. Sri Rupa Gosvami and Sridasa Gosvami took great pleasure in acknowledging the good qualities of these two ladies. Daily they recited slokas from Astaka by Mahaprabhu, Caitanya Kalpavrksa, Karpanya Panjika, Hari Kusumanjali, Vilasa Kusumanjali, Premamvajamakandaksha, and Catupushpanjali. When chanting these verses they were overcome with ecstacy and called out the names of Sri Radha Govinda. Sri Radha Vallava Cakravarti and Vrndavana Chakravarti were two great Vaisnavas whose disicple was Sri Vrndavani Thakurani. Her sons, Radha Vindoda Cakravarti and Kisari Cakravarti dedicated themselves to their mother. All of them were disciples of Sr Iswari.

Now the disciples of Sri Hemalata shall be described. Sri Suvala Chandra Thakura, and his nephew Sri Gokula Chakravarti were her disciples. Sri Radhavallava Thakura from Mandala village, Sri Vallavadasa of the Gosvami family, and Yadunandana Vaidya dasa of Malihati village were all disciples of Sri Isvari. Kanurama Chakravarti and his two servants Darpanayana and Candi, Ramacarana, Madhu Miswas, and Radha Kanta Vaidya were other disciples of Hemalata. Jagadisa kaviraja and his follower, who was the brother of Radhavallaa Kaviraja were initiated by Hemalata. The three sons of Sri Gati Prabhu; Sri Krsna Prasada Thakura, Sri Sundarananda and Sri Hari Thakura took initiation from their father. Amonth the two wives of Prabhu the younger one was initated by her husband. The elder on, Sri Satyavama initiated Sri Radha Madhava. Sri Jogadananda Thakura, Sri Ghanasyama, son of Tulasirama dasa, and Sri Dandarparai Chattapati became disciples of Sri Gati Prabhu. The sons-in-law of Sri Gati Prabhu dedicated themselves to the service of Prabhu. His five daughters were very eager to worship Prabhu. Sri Gati prabhu favored Sri Kanaka Priya Thakurani, daughter of Srivasa. Sri Janaki Viswasa and his son Srihari Vishigovinda earnestly worshiped Sri Gati Prabhu. Sri Prasada Viswasa and his son, Sri Vrindavanadasa, were his disciples. Sri Gati Prabhu's other disciples were Sri Vraja Mahana Chattaraja, Sri Purusottama Cakravarti, Jayaramadasa of Sanavali village, and Radha Krsna Dasa Thakura. Sri Krsna Prasada Cakravarti and his nephew, Sri Madana Cakravarti, Sri Vallavikanta Cakravarti, Sri Ghanasyama Kaviraja all received the mercy of Sri Gati Prabhu. Another disciple was Sri Anaramadasa, a Vaidya by caste, who was always absorbed in chanting the holy name. The poet apologises for being incapable of mentioning all the disciples of Sri Gati Prabhu. The poet, Yadunatha dasa was directed by Srila Hemalata, daugher of Srinivasa Prabhu to compose Karnananda for the satisfaction of all devoted souls.

THRID EXTRACT

By the mercy of Sri Krsna Caitanya, Nityananda Prabhu, Advaitacandra, and all the devoted disciples of Gaura, I shall now discuss some unrevealed theories and episodes which may be beneficial for the listeners. I shall first attempt to describe the glories of Ramacandra whose generosity knew no bounds.

One day my spiritual master, Sri Hemalata, revealed the glories of Ramacandra to me. After hearing her description of his exalted character, I was filled with divine pleasure. Prabhu Ramacandra was a very grave men, yet his heart was filled with love and kindness. He was a famous psychiatrist and also known for his sweet and loving disposition.

Once Srinivasa was sitting with his two wives in his house in Visnupura. His wives considered themselves the most fortunate to have such an exalted and attractive husband. At that time Srinivasa became talking about the pastimes of Lord Krsna, which attracted the minds of his wives. While speaking, Prabhu suddenly fell into an ecstatic state. Overwhelmed with emotion, he fell on the ground and fainted, calling out the name of Sri Gauracandra. In this ecstatic condition he sometimes cried out the name of Sri Rupa, Sanatana, and sometimes the name of Sri Bhatta Gosvami. After a long time, he composed himself and went to take his bath. After bathing he put on a fresh white cloth and sat before the Deity. Wearing a scarf printed with manakshana, he marked his forehead with tilak and began to recite prayers in a sweet voice. Srinivasa happily worshiped Sri Vamshivadana with sadalwood paste and Tulasi leaves, then sat absorbed in deep meditation. In this state he was able to witness the transcendental pastimes of Radha and Krsna. With great pleasure he saw Radha and Krsna taking bath on the banks of the Jamuna. Surrounded by the gopis, Krsna appeared like a cloud surrounded by lightning. The gopis decorated Krsna's body with many ornaments.....Krsna entered the water. Sri Rupa Manjari, Sri Lavanga Manjari, Sri Guna Manjari, and Sri Rati Manjari remained standing on the bank of the river in order to observe the beautiful pastimes of Krsna. With their wet saris tightly clinging to their bodies, the other gopis began to splash water on Krsna's face.

Observing this scene, Srinivasa was completed enchanted by the beauty of the gopis, the movement of their bodies, the swinging of their hips, hands, and legs. Even when they frowned they were gorgeous. He was amazed to hear their sweet talks with Krsna, and to see them splashing water directly in the eyes of Krsna. They all laughed loudly and fought with Krsna, sometimes in knee-deep water, sometimes in hip-deep water, sometimes breast deep, and sometimes in neck-deep water. They would fight with Krsna sometimes face to face, sometimes breast to breast, sometimes eye to eye, and sometimes nail to nail. Due to their fighting the water of the river overflowed its banks. Lord Krsna then stole the garments of the gopis and climbed up in a tree, from where he could observe the beauty of gopis bodies in the blue water of the Jamuna. The transcendental nectar of these divine pastimes cannot be understood by ordinary persons. Kaviraja Gosvami has further explained this pastime in his book Sri Govinda Lilamrta.

After finishing her bath, Srimati Radharani left the water. However, in doing so, she did not notice that her nose stud had fallen out. The gopis followed her, and Krsna returned all of their garments and ornaments. Beautifully dressed, they all entered into the kunjavana. Vrinda brought various types of fruit, sweets, and numerous preparations and they dined together happily. The gopis were captivated by the beauty of Radha and Krsna, and lovingly served Them attentively.

Suddenly they noticed that Sri Radha had lost her nose-stud. Thinking that it had most probably been lost in the water, they became distraught. Sri Rupa Manjari and Sri Guna Manjari winked at Sri Mani Manjari, and told her that since she knew the mind of Sri Radha very well and was accustomed to searching out Radha's lost ornaments, she should go in search of the lost nose-stud. Since Sri Radha was in the habit of losing her ornaments, sometimes in the water of a kunda or in the Yamuna, sometimes at day and sometimes at night, Manji Manjari was frequently sent to search from the lost item.

Mani Manjari happily went to the bank of the Yamuna in search of the lost nose-stud, but she could not find it there. She then entered into the water of the Yamuna river, which glittered in the sunshine like a shining mirror, yet to her disappointment she did not find it their either. The nose-stud had actually fallen on the footprints of Radha Krsna and had been covered by the leaf of a lotus, thus Mani Manjari was unable to find it.

Meanwhile the wives of Srinivasa found that their husband was remaining in a state of deep meditation for a long time. Evening had arrived, but still Srinivasa did not break his meditation. The wives saw that the body of their husband had become stiff, his breath seemed to have stopped, and their was no quivering in his belly. Seeing Srinivasa's extrordinary state, they were reminded of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Fearing for the life of their beloved husaband, the wives began to loudly chant the holy name into his ear, yet still he did not return to exernal consciousness. When Prabhu continued to remain in this state until the late hours of the night, his wives began to think about many bad omesn and wept loudly, rolling on the ground in grief. After a few hours they pacified themselves and began to fan him.l

When the king heard about the condition of Srinivasa, his heart was filled with grief and he hurried to Prabhu's house. He fell flat before Srinivasa, then tried to feel the breath of Prabhu by placing his hand near Srinivasa's notstrils, but he could not find any sign of life. When Thakurani explained to him that he had been in theis condition since early in the day, the king became filled with anxiety and tried to figure out a method to bring him back to his senses. Disciples such as Sri Vallavi Kaviraja, Sri Vyasacarya, Sri Krsna Vallava, Janki Dasa, and Prasada Dasa rushed to see their master. They also tried their best to revive Srinivasa Prabhu. When they all failed, they lost all hope for the life of their guru. When the first three hours of the night passed, Prabhu's wives began weeping loudly. They fell on the ground and rolled in grief. The disciples of Prabhu tried their best to give them solace, explaining that Prabhu was simply abosbed in a highly spritual state and would certainly regain his senses after some time. This pacified the wives to some extent and sat down by the side of their husband, trying to think of some way to revive their lord. In this way the night passed and the dawn appeared, still Srinivasa did not returned to consciousness.

The king and all the disciples also sat anxiously waiting form Srinivasa to regain consicousness. In this way the first three hours of the day passed. As time passed Prabhu's disciples began to think that they had lost their master forever. Thinking that they would never again have the opporutnity for such exalted association, they began to weep loudly. Thakurani then placed some cotton balls under the nose of Srinivasa to detect his breath. When they did not even slightly quiver, she pulled at her hair and fell to the ground in despair. In their grief, sometimes they wept and sometimes they fainted on the ground.

Suddenly Srimati Jin remembered something which gave her encouragement and immediately calmed her down. Seeing Sri Isvari's change of mood everyone inquired curiously as to what had calmed her mind. She gladly told them that a long time ago Srinivasa Prabhu had told her about Sri Ramacandra Kaviraja, who was capable of understanding everything about Sri Acarya. She said that she was sure that Kaviraja would arrive there that day, as this had been fortold to her previously in a dream.

Just as she was speaking Ramacandra Kaviraja suddenly arrived at the spot. He fell at the feet of Srinivasa, reciting prayers with folded hands. At once Srinivasa regained external consciousness. He embraced Kaviraja and asked about his well-being. Kaviraja replied, "Without your darsana how can I be in a good state of mind?" Prabhu took him in hands and placed him on a seat beside himself. Together they happily discussed Lord Krsna's pastimes. After they both took bath, they discussed more transcendnetal subject matter. Overcome with emotion they both wept, calling out the names of Rupa, Sanatana, Sri Bhatta gosvami and Radha Krsna.

Srinivasa bowed before the Deity of Sri Vamsivadana. He changed his dress and painted tilak on his forehead. Repeatedly he called out the name of Sri Kunda and Govardhana. After watering the Tulasi plant, he worshiped the Salagrama sila and offered various types of sweets. He then offereed betel leaf to the Deity and performed arati. Again and again he humbly bowed before the Deity. Returning to his house he ate the prasada and gave the rest of it to Kaviraja.

The wives of Srinivasa cooked and offered it to their dear husband. Prabhu first offered the food to the Salagrama sila. He then put the Lord to rest and fanned Him slowly for some time. Afterwards Srinivasa came out form the temple and bowed before the Deity, streetching himself out flat on the ground. Thereafter he invited all the devotees who were waiting in his house to dine with him. He requested them to take their seats and he personally served them. After satisfying them with profuse prasada, Prabhu offered them betel leafs and requested them to take rest. He then entered into his room and was pleased to find Kaviraja waiting for him there.

His wives cleaned the place where he would take his seat to dine and requested Prabhu to take his seat along with Kaviraja. But Srinivasa said that Kaviraja would take his food after he had finished. Kaviraja then began to fan Srinivasa while he respected prasada. After Srinivasa finsished, Kaviraja sat down and ate from the plate of Prabhu. While eating, Kaviraja became filled with spiritual emotions. After completeing his meal, Kavirjaja sat down near Prabhu and Srinivasa offered him his chewed betel leaf. Srinivasa then lay down to rest and Ramacandra massaged his legs.

After some time Srinivasa awoke from sleep. His wives then asked him, "Oh lord, previously you often spoke with great admiration about Kaviraja. Now we have observed how he ate from your plate and drank water form your glass without any hesitation. Please explain this to us." Srinivasa explained that Ramacandra is an exceptional devotee, beyond their understanding, and that in time they would come to know all about him. The wives were very pleased to hear this, and requested Prabhu to give them the remnants of his chewed betel leaves.

The next day when Srinivasa entered into the compound of his house with Kaviraja, they saw what appeared to be a snake and jumped across it in fear. Kaviraja searched for the snake but was unable to find it, rather he discovered that Prabhu had mistaken a coil of straw to be a snake. Nevertheless he did contradict his master. When Srinivasa himself discovered that it was a coil of straw and pointed it out, Ramacandra at once accepted his opinion. Prabhu and Kaviraja then sat down in the room to converse.

Later, when the wives of Srinvasa were resting, Sri Acarya came to them and began to explain the exalted characteristics of Ramacandra. He compared Ramacandra to Arjuna by citing one story form the Mahabharata:

Once upon a time Dronacarya was engaged in teaching the art of using weapons to Duryodhana and his hundred brothers, along with Yudhistira and his four brothers. Dronacarya put a bird on the highest branch of a tree and ordered them all to hit the eye of the bird with one arrow. Duryodhana and his brothers took up their weapons and happily aimed at the mark. Dronacarya then asked them what they were seeing at that moment, and they replied that they saw the tree, its branches, and the bird. Drona was angry and dissatified with their answer and rebuked them, saying that they would never be able to learn the art of using weapons. He then called Arjuna to aim at the bird, then asked him the same question. Arjuna replied that he say nothing other than the eye of the bird. Drona ordered him to shoot and Arjuna's arrow perfectly hit the eye of the bird. Greatly satisfied, Dron explained to all that Arjuna's never divereted his attention from the eye of the bird. That is why he passed the test. Arjuna bowed to the feet of his master and took his seat among the other disciples. With content Drona told Arjuna that he would be the only person who could be parallel to his master and that he was his best disciple. Duryodhana was deeply unhappy to hear these words of praise.

Srinivasa took great pleasure in describing this incident and comparing Kaviraja with Arjuna, because Ramacandra never disobeyed his master. He always sincerely listened to Prabhu even when the latter ordered him to take his food after everyone else. Srinivasa further described Ramacandra's faithfulness by citing explaining about the time when Prabhu had mistaken the coil of straw to be a snake, and although Ramacandra knew this, he nevertheless tried to find out the snake in the courtyard as ordered by Srinivasa. Yet when Prabhu told him that it was a coil of straw, not a snake, Ramacandra at once accepted his master's opinion. Ramacandra humbly submitted to Srinivasa, saying that without the favor of his master how could he know what was right or wrong. Thus Srinivasa openly declared that as Arjuna was the dearest disciple of Dronacarya, so Ramacandra was most dear to him. "From now on," Srinivasa said, "everyone should take it for granted that Ramacandra's opionion is the same as mine." Srinivasa explained that Ramacandra and Narottama were his two eyes, thus both of them were identical. Kaviraja Govinda and Chakravarti Govinda were the two persons who understood the characteristics of Ramacandra and Narottama. Srinivasa said, "He who receives the favour of Ramacandra, he also attains the blessings of Lord Krsna." In this way Sri Acarya took great pleasure in glorifying Ramacandra.

In this regard, once Srinivasa's wife narrated a story to the disciples. Once Srinivasa was eating with Ramacandra seated on one side of him, and Narottama on the other side. They happily talked about Lord Krsna, while Prabhu took food from his two disciples after it had been touched by their hands. Srinivasa's wives were surprised to see this behavior as they could not understand how it was possible for a disciple a to offer food to his master after touching it with his own hand. Thus they decided to wait for an opportunity to ask him about this. After eating and washing their hands and mouths, Srinivasa and his two disciples became absorbed is discussions about Krsna. All three of them became extremely emotional and shed tears of joy.

When the opportunity arose, Iswari questioned her husband about the question which had arisen in her mind in regards to how he accept food which had been touched by his disciples. Srinivasa explained that Ramacandra and Narottama were exactly like his two hands and two eyes. Since they were like parts of his own body, it did not matter if the food had been touched by Ramacandra and Narottama.

While discussing this topic, the left eye of Iswar suddenly began to dance. Her left thigh and left side also began to quiver. She took this to indicate that Ramacandra would soon arrive there. Similarly the right eyes of the men present began to quiver. Thus they were not surprised when Ramacandra arrived at their place. Everyone happily recevied them including the wives of Srinivasa, who rushed forward to greet him. Upon meeting Iswari, Ramacandra fell at her feet. Seeing her face dark with grief, he inquired as to the cause of her distress. Iswari explained that Srinivasa had been lost in deep meditation for three long days which caused her great anxiety, but now, upon seeing Ramacandra, her anxieties had disappeared. Speaking to him like a son, Iswari explained that Srinivasa had. Hearing this Ramacandra fell at Iswari's feet then stood before her humbly with folded hands. He then went to see Srinivasa, who lay in a state of deep meditation. His body was stiff and no sign of breathing could be detetected. Ramacandra tried to feel his breath by placing his hand under Srinivasa's nostril, but he felt nothing. Turning to Iswari, he explained that Srinivasa was immersed in a deep state of meditation, similar to the ecstatic absorbtion Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu formerly manifested. Calling the name of Sri Radha and beseeching Her blessings, Ramacandra covered the boy of Srinivasa with a cloth and slid under the cover along with Prabhu. By exercising the powers given to him by the grace of Srinivasa, Ramacandra also entered into a deep trance and in his perfected spiritual body he came to understand everything about Srinivasa's trance. Ramacandra then assured Thakurani that if after two hours Srinivasa did not regained consciousness, she should chant the holy name loudly in his ear.

Thereafter, Ramacandra, in his original spiritual body, went to the bank of the Yamuna where Sri Mani Manjari was searching for the nose-stud of Radha which was dropped on the foot prints of Radha Krsna under the water and was covered by the leaf of a lotus. Mani Manjari happily greeted her confidante, and together they continued the search for the nose-stud. They both entered the water and eventually picked up the lotus leaf which had been concealing the nose-stud. Mani Manjari praised him profusely for helping her to find the nose-stud. They then rushed to the spot were Radha and Krsna were taking rest.

All of the confidantes of Radha were anxiously waiting for Mani Manjari to return with the nose-stud. When they caught sight of Mani Manjari and Ramacandra, they happily received them, relieved to hear that the lost ornament had been recovered. Sri Rupa Manjari took the nose-stud and skillfully placed it through the hole on Radha's nose. Back in its rightful position, the nose-stud throbbed slowly along with the breathing of Sri Radha.

Sri Rupa Manjari gently grasped one of Radha's legs and began to massage it. After some time, Sri Guna Manjari requested Mani Manjari to massage the other leg of Sri Radha. With great ecstacy, Mani Manjari accepted this service. Later Sri Guna Manjari told her that she had kept for her the remnants of Sri Radha's chewed betel leaf. Mani Manjari happily accepted it and was most pleased to see that she had also kept a portion of it for her confidante (Ramacandra).

At this time, Srimati, the wife of Srinivasa, peered behind the cloth curtain and found that her husband was still lost in meditation, thus she instructed all the disciples to chant the holy name. Srimati personally chanted loudly into the ear of her husband, while the others waiting outside began a boisterous kirtana. Peering behind the cover again, Srimati found that both Srinivasa and Ramacandra remained in deep trance. However, after a long time, the Harinama penetrated the ear of Srinivasa, and he immediately awoke. Prabhu looked around him, here and there, as if he were searching for someone. His disciples eagerly pulled the cloth aside and where charmed by the divine beauty of their beloved master. Srinivasa, however, appeared rather disturbed, sometimes he looked grave, while at other times he seemed restless. After some time he controlled his emotions and began to converse with his disciples. The atmosphere finally became peaceful, and the disciples heaved a sigh of relief, enjoying the company of Srinivasa. After some time, Srinivasa took Ramacandra to a secluded place where they discussed privately.

Observing the intimate relationship between Srinivasa and Narottama, Iswari remarked that Ramacandra was the dearmost associate of Srinivasa, just as Ramananda was dear to Mahaprabhu, and Subal was dear to Sri Krsna. Intriqued by this intimate relationship, she inquired how it was possible for Ramacandra to revive Srinivasa when he had been engrossed in meditation for three long days. With folded hands Ramcandra humbly explained to Iswari that in his meditation Srinivasa enjoyed the company of Radha and Krsna while They bathed at the Yamuna river, and described everything which took place. Iswari listened to Ramacandra with great appreciation. Weeping with joy, she blessed Ramacandra from the core of her heart, feeling herself most fortunate to have son like Ramacandra.

Everyone then understood that Ramacandra Kaviraja was the most intimate disciple of Srinivasa. Thus Srimati happily sang the glories of Ramacandra. The other devotees also noted that Ramacandra's good qualities were as deep as the ocean. They greatly appreciated the value of his priceless association.

Srimati approached Srinivasa and very humbly submitted that being ignorant and unqualified she was complely dependent on the mercy of her husband to understand what was right and what was wrong. Dedicating herself fully to Sri Acarya, she begged that her husband take her into his confidence as he had done with Ramacandra.

Pleased by her submissive spirit, Srinivasa took her and Rmacandra to a secluded place and told them that he had kept tied up in the edge of his cloth a piece of betel leaf which had been chewed by Sri Radha. He took out the betel leaf and gave it first to Ramacandra and them to his wives. The taste and sweet smell of it swept them away into a state of divine ecstasy. They were unable to control their emotions and tears of joy flowed profusely from their eyes. Srinivasa reminded his wives how extraordinarily fortunate they were to have obtained the chewed betel leaf, a boon which even Lord Brahma is desirous of achieving. He further explained that they were now elevated to the platform of devotion equal to that of Ramacandra. Sri Acarya stated that Ramacandra was his life, as was Narottama. These two disiciples he could not be separated from.

When Srinivasa's other disciples heard about this statement made by their guru, they fell at the feet of their guru requesting him to favour them as he did Ramacandra. Hoping to achieve the mercy of Srinivasa, his disciples endeavored very sincerely to please him. In their eyes Srinivasa was the only one who could rescue them from materialistic sinful life. Seeing the sincerity of his disciples, Sri Acarya's heart melted and he assured them that they were all his dearly beloved disciples.

Cheered by Srinivasa's words, the disciples requested him to tell them what happened when he was in meditation for three long days. Srinivasa replied that Ramacandra knew everything and he could tell them. Turning to Ramacandra, Srinivasa requested him to narrate the story. Everyone eagerly stayed in the house of Srinivasa and listened with divine joy to the extrordinary pastimes of their guru. Thereafter, being ordered by Prabhu, Srimati took her bath and went to the kitchen to cook. Meanwhile Ramacandra and others went to the river to bathe.

After bathing, Srinivasa worshiped Lord Krsna, offered Him food, then served the prasada to the Vaisnavas. Srinivasa and Ramacandra then sat down to eat. The wives of Srinivasa brought the prasada and served them. Thus Sri Acarya broke his three day fast. As he ate, his wives stretched their palms out to gather the remnants of his meal. Whatever they gathered they happily ate and distributed to the disciples. After eating, they washed their mouths, took betel leaves, and Srinivasa lay down to rest, while Ramacandra sat by his side massaging his legs. Meanwhile, Srinivasa's wives relished the rest of the remnants left on the plate of their husband.

When Srinivasa fell asleep, Ramacandra left the room and took his seat amongst the other disciples of Prabhu. Srimati, being requested by the followers of Srinivasa, then began to narrate the stories she had heard from Ramacandra. At first she confessed that it was beyond her capacity to describe the wonderful pastimes of Sri Radha and Krsna at the Yamuna river, yet with the blessing of Srinivasa she began to describe how Radha had lost her nose-stud while bathing in the Yamuna, and how Guna Manjari had sent Sri Mani Manjari (Sri Acarya) to trace it out. Since the nose-stud was covered by a lotus leaf Mani Manjari was unable to locate it. Ramacandra, being the closest associate of Prabhu, went to help Mani Manjari in the search. This was the reason that Srinivasa had remained in trance for three days. Who but Ramacandra could realise it? After listening to this narration the disciples of Srinivasa had even greater appreciation of Ramacandra. Overcome with emotion, they glorified the great spiritual prowess of Ramacandra, admitting that certainly of them possesed such great potency. Thus they humbly surrendered to Ramacandra. At that time Srinivasa got up from his bed, taking the name of Sri Krsna Caitanya, and all his disciples ran to his side. After some time they took their leave with the permission of Srinivasa.

Those who listen attentively to the glories of Ramacandra as described by the wives of Sri Acarya will certainly be blessed by Lord Krsna and their hearts will be filled with pure devotional love. Those who even once hear such descriptions, can never forget it in their life. Thus the thirst for reading Karnananda will help every Vaisnava to attain divine love. Taking shelter at the lotus feet of Sri Hemalata, the daugher of Sri Acarya Prabhu, I, Yadunandana dasa narrate Karnananda.

FOURTH EXTRACT

With the blessings of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, the deliverer of mankind, I shall describe another episode which I heard from my guru, Sri Iswari Hemalata.

Returning to his home, the king began to think of the exalted spiritual qualities of Ramacandra. Thinking in this way he realised that Ramacandra's association was as valuable as a precious gem, and he desired to learn the proper method of worship from him. Thus the king went before Srinivasa and fell at his feet. Prabhu lifted him affectionately and embraced him cordially. The king then offered his obeisances to Srimati Thakurani and Ramacandra. Turning to Srinivasa, the king humbly requested that Sri Acarya take him into his confience and give him shelter under his feet. The king glorified Sri Acarya as an avatara who had descended to save suffering humanity, and also repented that he had wasted so many years uselessly striving for sense gratification. Now he begged for the mercy of Srinivasa so that he could learn the proper method of worship and meditation, and expressed his attraction to Ramacandra. Surrendering at his feet, the king earnestly requested Sri Acarya to cast his merciful glance upon him, and humbly fell prostrate before Prabhu.

Srinivasa lifted him up and embraced him lovingly. He said that Ramacandra would be the king's religious guide and would teach him according to the instructions of the six gosvamis of Vrndavana. Sri Acarya called Ramacandra and told him to take care of the king like his younger brother, and happily reassured the king that he was actually the most fortunate person for Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu had shown His favor by entering into the king's house in the form of the Gosvami’s books, thus he would also surely be blessed by Sri Rupa, Santana and the other Gosvamis. Hearing this, the king was overwhelmed with emotion and fell on the ground, crying.

Srinivasa then turned to Ramacandra and told him to give further instructions to the king. Thus Ramacandra explained to the king how great his fortune was having attained the shelter of Srinivasa Acarya's lotus, because by his grace one could easily receive the blessings of Rupa and Sanatana. Ramacandra explained that when Sri Acarya was traveling to Gauda from Vraja with the Gosvamis’ valuable books and the bandits stole them, the king rescused those books and kept them carefully. At that time he had actually earned the best wishes and blessings of all the Gosvamis who had mercifully entered into his house in the form of books. Thus Ramacandra was most pleased to have him as his disciple.

Ramacandra went on to instruct the king about the proper methods of sadhana. He emphasized that the king must first humbly serve the Vaisnavas and serve the Tulasi tree. Then it would be possible to attain the gracious feet of Krsna. Ramacandra said, "My Prabhu is the living example and embodiment of these principles. He is always absorbed in the service of the Vaisnavas. Thus you should follow his footsteps and worship and serve the Vaisnavas, drinking the water which has washed their feet, eating the remnants of their foodstuffs and smearing the dust of their feet on your body." Ramacandra assured the king that if he performed all of these duties he was sure to attain the mercy of Krsna. However, he warned, that even a slight offence to a Vaisnava, was capable of depriving one of pure devotional love for Krsna. The Vaisnavas have great power, by pleasing them one attains the grace of Krsna--and by displeasing them one loses the grace of Krsna. Thus he recommended that the king first of all wholeheartedly serve the Vaisnavas. According to the Puranas, Krsna and Krsna's devotees are non-different, as Krsna personally empowers His devotees. The Vaisnavas are abodes of all good qualities; kindness, truthfulness, innocence, saintliness, benevolence, determination, sobriety, equality, are all to be find in the devotee. These qualities help one to attain the grace of Sri Krsna. Thus Ramacandra advised the king to give up all other types of company and to associate only with the Vaisnava devotees of the Lord. He also instructed the king to serve Srimati Tulasi devi with the utmost care and devotion, thus he would certainly obtain the grace of Krsna. Every devotee should observe, touch, worship and utter the name of Tulasi everyday. In this way Krsna will become satisfied with such a devotee.

Listening intently, the king inquired further, requesting Ramacandra to explain the sixty-four methods of devotion and meditation. Ramacandra gladly explained that amongst the sixty-four methods of devotional service, first of all one should learn the process of sadhana bhakti then eventually the devotee will rise to platform of pure love of Krsna. The method of sadhana bahkti is of two varieties--vaidhi-bhakti (regulated service) and raganuga bhakti (spontaneous service). Vaidhi-bhakti is performed according to the rules of shastra. This process must be followed by those who have not yet developed their spontaneous service atittude. Some of the other important processes recommended amongst the sixty-four items of devotion service are accepting initiation from a bona fide spiritual master--depending upon his mercy and serving him with utmost care, following the path of the previous acaryas, studying religious books, giving up all types of greed, observing the Ekadasi fast day, worship of the cows-brahmanas-Vaisnavas-and sacred trees, avoiding the company of non-devotees, not making many disciples, not reading books which do not help to increase religious knowledge. One should not allow himself to become distraught upon losing or gaining something material, neither should one criticize other processes of religion. One should not listen to criticism of Vaisnavas, one should avoid sentimentality and should constatnly engage in worshiping and glorifying Sri Krsna. One should follow the nine-fold process of devotional service (i.e. sravanam, kirtanam, smaranam, etc.). Dandavata pranama, asthana and anuvraja to tirthas should be performed, as well as accept the mahaprasadam of the Lord. One should visit the temples and attend the arati ceremony, and should generously distribute articles to the poor and distressed. One must very attentively serve Tulasi, the Vaisnavas, Mathura, the Bhagavata, and observe different types of fasts and religious vows with great sincerity. Ramacandra further desribed that the five types of worship which were of the greatest importants were the performance of sankirtana, associating with the devotees, listening to Srimad Bhagavatam, living in a sacred place such as Mathura, and worshiping the Deity.

The king then humbly requested Ramacandra to explain the method of raganuga worship. Thus Ramacandra explained that raganuga bhakti is also executed by the performance of hearing and chanting the glories to Krsna. This is the verdict of the Gosvamis. Sri Radha Thakurani possesses the highest elegance of style and beauty. She is the emobodiment of devotional love, so much so that the intensity of Her love is not understood by Krsna Himself. Yet, if even once the name of Krsna enters into Her ear she immediately begins to tremble in emotion and completely loses Her self-control. No one has the capacity to describe the ecstatic state of Srimati Radharani. She is is desirous of chanting the name of Krsna with millions of mouths, and hearing His name with millions of ears. If one is attracted by the holy name of Krsna, he is sure to give up reading the Vedas and engage in the worship of Krsna. The glorification of the holy name as described by Sri Rupa in the form of slokas is full of the sweetest nectar. Mahaprabhu, Himself, accepting the mood of Sri Radha, tasted the nectar of Krsna's holy name. While at other times Sri Krsna Caitanya, as Krsna Himself, enjoyed the nectar of the name. Thus Ramacandra instructed the king that he should also take shelter of continuous chanting of the holy name. In this way he would taste the highest pleasure. Ramacandra explained the siksastaka slokas as preached by Mahaprabhu which are meant to dispel the darkness in one's heart and light the lamp of love for Sri Krsna. Mahaprabhu, along with Swarupa Damodara and other disciples, always engaged in sankirtana. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu explained to Swarupa Damodara and Ramananda Raya that nama-sankirtana is the only way to attain the lotus feet of Krsna. Nama-sankirtana destroys all evils and vices, and brings happiness in the minds of all. Sankirtana destroys sins and immerses one in the ocean of loving devotion to Krsna. When sorrows and distress try to occupy the mind, the only remedy is the chanting of the holy name of Krsna.

Whatever one's desires may be, he should take to chanting the holy name. There are no hard and fast rules, nor any limitations of place, time and regulations regarding the chanting of Krsna nama. One can chant the holy name anwhere at anytime. Ramacandra described Mahaprabhu's instructions to Swarupa Damodara and Ramananda Raya regarding the chanting of the holy name. The Lord said that if one chants the holy name in a humble state of mind, thinking himself lower than the grass and more tolerant than the tree, his love for Krsna will certainly increase. A tree shows its tolerance in two ways; it never complains when it becomes dry--on the contrary, it always offers its fruits to all and protects everyone with its shade. In the same way, a Vaisnava never shows his pride and vanity, and always pays respect to everyone. He who chants the holy name in this frame of mind is sure to attain the favour and blessings of Lord Krsna. When Mahaprabhu was explaining in this way to Ramananda Raya and Swarupa Damodara, He became emotional and began to humbly pray for the attainment of pure devotional service. He prayed, "Although I am Your eternal servant, I am bound by maya in this world, please lift me up from this ocean of birth and death." Absorbed in ecstatic love the Lord continued to pray, "When will my eyes be decorated with tear of love flowing constantly when I chant You holy name?Oh Govinda, I am feeling all vacant in the world in Your absence." In such a state of disappointment, Mahaprabhu was unable to spend His days and nights and His eyes began to shed tears like torrents of rain. Without Govinda the whole world seemed to be vacant to Him. EDITED APP. TO HERE ***** The confidantes of Krsna became very sorry to observe Krsna's indifferent attitude towards Mahaprabhu. Radha became very anxious and after thinking for a long time she arose Dasyavava in Mahaprabhu joy, anxiety, humbleness and politeness-all these feelings made Radha very much perturbed and she began to cite some slokes which Mahaprabhu also began to cite as He them in Dasyavava. In these slokas Radha alivs Mahaprabhu completely dedicated Herself to the favour and mercy of Krsna though She knew that Krsna used to sport with all the Gopis, Yet He was the life of Radha. Ecstatically prabhu Himself cited some slokas whi