Appearance days of the Pancha Tattva-ISKON FESTIVALS:
Nitayanada Trayodasi
Nitai-pada-kamala, koti-chandra susitala – “The lotus feet of Lord Nityananda are cooling like a million moons.”
One should take the shelter of the lotus feet of Lord Nityananda Prabhu, for He is the original spiritual master. It is by the mercy of Nitai that we can obtain love of Krishna.
Lord Nityananda appeared about twenty years before the appearance of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Nityananda-trayodasi is an important celebration for Gaudiya Vaishnavas, as without the mercy of Nitai, one cannot get the mercy of Nimai.
The eve of Nityananda-trayodasi is celebrated for the purpose of invoking auspiciousness. During the adhivasa ceremony performed on that day, auspicious items are offered to the Deities for Their pleasure.
Devotees fast until noon on Nityananda-trayodasi. Their Lordships Sri Sri Pancha-tattva are decorated gorgeously with flowers and tulasi garlands. Nityananda Prabhu’s pastimes from Sri Chaitanya-Bhagavata are narrated during the Bhagavatam class. As Nityananda-trayodasi falls very close to the Gaura-purnima celebrations, the participation of the many visitors, devotees and sannyasis adds more color to the festivities. The visiting devotees experience redoubled joy and mercy, as they are able to enjoy both Nityananda-trayodasi and Gaura-purnima. A maha-abhisheka is performed for Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai and elaborate bhoga is offered to Them. The kirtana plunges everyone into an ocean of transcendental bliss. A feast is then served to mark this glorious occasion.
Advaita Acharya
It is through the entreaties and ardent devotion and sincere prayers of Advaita Acharya, the combined form of Lord Mahavishnu and Sadashiva, that persuaded the Lord to appear as Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Advaita Acharya had felt grief for the miserable and ignorant condition of the world, and so by offering Tulasi leaves and Ganga water, He cried for the Lord’s appearance. Being pleased by Advaita Acharya, Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu appeared.
A special mood of receiving the mercy of Pancha-tattva sets in at the temple. The devotees fast until noon on this day. A grand abhisheka of Advaita Acharya is performed with various ingredients, such as fruit juices and colored powders. There is also panchamrita-abhisheka and multi-colored flower abhisheka done at noon, followed by Bhoga offering and Arati. Matajis cook a feast for Advaita Acharya with great love. A tumultuous kirtana accompanies the abhisheka ceremony which surcharges the atmosphere with the ecstacy of hari-nama sankirtana.
Gadadhara Pandit
The dark moon night of the month of Vaisakha is the time when Sri Gadadhara pandit appeared and also left the world. In the Gaur-ganoddesa-dipika, it is described that that person who in Vraja was the daughter of Sri Vrsabhanu Raja, namely Srimati Radharani, is now celebrated as Sri Gadadhara Pandita.
Srila Gadadhara Pandit`s munificent and sweet nature influenced the whole atmosphere on the day of His appearance in Sri Mayapur dham. The beautiful darshan of the magnificently decorated Gadadhara and other members of the Pancha Tattva bring joy into the hearts of the assembled devotees, causing a jubilant and enthusiastic kirtan to ensue, thus inspiring everyone to dance in bliss.
Srivas Pandit
Srivas Angan is the birthplace of Sankirtan movement. Lord Caitanya inaugurated harinam sankirtan in the house of Srivas Thakur. In Pancha-tattva, the bhataakhya (pure devotee) is Srivasa and other great devotees as well.
He is previousy Narada Muni who munificently travelled everywhere to spread the message of Godhead. The lotus feet of Lord which is rarely attainable for yogis and sages are very easily attained by the maid servants and devotees in the house of Srivas Pandit. They could achieve such feat simply by rendering service to the pure devotee Srivas Pandit. Such is the greatness of the devotional service of Srivas Thakur. It was in the house of Srivas Thakur, Mahaprabhu exhibited Sat Prahirya Lila or Mahaprakash Lila, where devotees headed by Srivas Thakur performed Maha abhisheka to the Lord. He is a perfect devotee and most compassionate towards the welfare of all living entities.
Srila Prabhupada’s Vyasa Puja
Srila Prabhupad’s Appearance Day is a very special day for all ISKCON devotees as they joyfully glorify their eternal saviour Srila Prabhupada on His appearance day.
Srila Prabhupada was sent by the Lord to fulfill Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s prediction- Prtvithe ache yata nagaradi grama, sarvatra pracara haibe more nama: In every town and village of the world, My name will be heard.
Srila Bhakti Vinoda Thakura wrote in his Sajjona-tosani, “Soon there will be a time when the chanting of Krishna’s name will be heard in England, France, Russia, Germany and America.”
Srila Prabhupada appeared on Nanadotsava. Nandotsava means: Nanda Maharaja’s huge festival celebrating Krishna’s birth. Nanda Maharaja dressed in luxurious garments and distributed profuse charity to everyone in his kingdom. He gave away opulent cloth and ornaments and two million richly decorated cows to the brahmanas. Vraja was alive with vibrations of Vedic hymns and beautiful decorations and everyone was experiencing unending happiness. Bursting with bliss, the Vrajavasis expressed their joy by throwing butter, yogurt and ghee all around.
One hundred years ago, on that most auspicious spiritual occasion, Srila Prabhupada appeared to fulfill the mission of Lord Krishna. Srila Prabhupada grew up as a pure devotee of the Lord and distributed Krishna Consciousness everywhere.
Srila Prabhupada made a perfect appearance, led a perfect life and had a perfect departure. Srila Prabhupada lives forever through his books. This legacy will always provide the devotees with Lord Caitanya katha and teach everyone to chant the Maha mantra.
Vasanta Panchami
This is the beginning of spring in India. The sastric instruction is that on the fifth day of the waxing moon one should celebrate the arrival of spring in Vrindavana by offering many types of leaves, flowers, and fresh shoots of sprouting grasses to Krishna. Vasanta-panchami is celebrated in Bengal too. This marks the beginning of new life with the full flowering of yellow mustard seed plants. At this time, flowers begin to bloom and nature displays her majestic finery.
Following the tradition, the Deities at Mayapur are dressed in yellow outfits and are offered yellow flowers. Many women can be seen in yellow dresses on this day. Vasanta-panchami is an auspicious day for beginning new projects. Weddings and fertility rites are also performed on this day.
Rajapur Jagannath Ratha Yatra
Original Ratha-yatra in Puri
The Jagannatha Rathayatra is one of the major festivals and attended by millions of pilgrims at Sri Ksetra, Puri Dham. For fifteen days, Lord Jagananth remains in seclusion with Maha Lakshmi to enjoy pastimes with her. Now, having taken her permission, He comes out to ride upon His Ratha, and thus performs pastimes for the pleasure of His devotees.
The fine, white sand that covers the road to the Gundicha temple resembles the banks of the river Yamuna, and the small gardens on both sides look just like those found in Vrindavana.
The pullers of Jagannatha’s Rath are known as Gaudas. These gaudas pull the Rath with great pleasure. Sometimes the Ratha stands completely still, and will not even budge an inch, in spite of being pulled vigorously. Thus, the chariot moves by the will of the Lord, and not by the strength of any ordinary persons.
After remaining in Sundarachala for nine days, the Lord returns to Nilachala.
Lord Caitanya took part in RathaYatra in an ecstatic mood. He also discussed Jagannatha katha and His lila in Vrindavan with His intimate associates, such as Srivas Thakur and Svarupa Damodara and performed sankirtan with great ecstatic exuberance.
Ratha-yatra celebrations in Mayapur
At the Rajapur’s Sri Jagannatha Temple, Their Lordships getting dressed in nice outfits and adorned with beautiful ornaments and flower garlands. Amidst a roaring kirtan and in big procession, They are seated on three different chariots. They come to Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir and shower their blessings there for the next seven days. Sometimes even a small chariot with Jaganntha, Baladev, and Subhadra Mayi deities comes in front, pulled by the children. Jagannatha-astaka is recited and wonderful kirtan accompanies the chariots.
Every evening, during the seven days of a festival, lamps are offered to Sri Jagannatha, Baladeva and Subhadra and all the ladies blissfully serve Lord Jagannatha by offering a nice bhoga they prepare daily for pleasure of the Lord.
After seven celebration days, the return Ratha Yatra (a.k.a. Ulta Ratha) takes place with pomp and splendor, returning to Rajapur temple.
Radhastami
The divine appearance day of Srimati Radharani, the eternal consort of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead
Radhastami is a very special day for all the Gaudiya Vaishnavas, as by obtaining the mercy of Srimati Radharani one can easily achieve Krishna-prema. Radha is Krishna’s dearest servant, and is His pleasure potency.
Srimati Radharani’s glorious birth occured on the eighth day of the bright moon in the month of Bhadra. Although generally not full on that day, the moon appeared full to celebrate Radharani’s appearance in this world. Among all of Krishna’s consorts in Sri Vrindavana, Srimati Radharani is the greatest. In fact, She is the queen of Vrndavana. At Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, we are fortunate to also worship Her eight dearest friends Lalita, Tungavidya, Chitra, Champakalata, Vishakha, Indulekha, Rangadevi and Sudevi.
As with Balarama-purnima and Janmashtami, an adhivasa ceremony to prepare the devotees is conducted on the eve of Radhashtami.
On Radhashtami day, a new outfit is offered to Srimati Radharani and the temple is lavishly decorated with flowers and garlands. Srimati Radharani’s glories are narrated in the morning Bhagavatam class. A maha-abhisheka is performed at noon with a variety of ingredients and many colorful flowers. Devotee men and women in the Deity kitchen an elaborate bhoga with more than 100 varieties along with many sweet dishes, pastries, and cakes. After the abhisheka, bhoga is offered and maha-arati is performed. Devotees fast till noon and enjoy a transcendental feast in the afternoon.
Cultural programs are presented in the evening to enchant the visitors and devotees.
Nrisimha Chaturdasi
Nrisimha-chaturdasi is the divine appearance day of Nrisimhadeva, Lord Krishna’s man-lion incarnation, who removes all obstacles on the path of devotional service out of His great compassion.
Srila Prabhupada writes (Bhagavatam 7.8.51, purport):
The Supreme Personality of Godhead in His transcendental form of Lord Nrisimhadeva is always ready to kill the demons who always create disturbances in the minds of honest devotees. To spread the Krishna consciousness movement, devotees have to face many dangers and impediments all over the world, but a faithful servant who preaches with great devotion to the Lord must know that Lord Nrisimhadeva is always his protector.
At Mayapur, Nrisimha-chaturdasi is very special as devotees assemble in great numbers and with great joy to observe this festival and chant the glories of Lord Nrisimhadeva. The Srimad-Bhagavatam class focuses on various aspects of Lord Nrisimhadeva’s pastimes, usually given by two or three devotees.
At dusk a maha-abhisheka is performed to our Deity, technically called Sthanu-Nrisimha because of His standing pose, with sandalwood oil and other precious oils. Since the Deity has performed unbelievable miracles in the lives of several devotees, there is naturally great enthusiasm amongst the devotees. Nrisimhadeva is offered a new dress too. After the arati, anukalpa-prasada [i.e. prasada as on ekadasi] is honored by the devotees.
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura, in his Navadvipa-bhava-taranga, writes of the significance that worship of Lord Nrisimhadeva has for a Gaudiya Vaishnava:
Therefore, I pray to the feet of Lord Nrisimhadeva to purify my heart and give me the desire to serve Krishna. Weeping, I beg at the lotus feet of Nrisimha that I may worship Sri Sri Radha and Krishna at Navadvipa-dhama, free from all obstacles.
The devotees aspire for such perfection under the shelter of Sri Nrisimhadeva.
Kartik & Dipavali
This commemorates the return of Ramachandra to Ayodhya after He had conquered over Ravana and rescued Sita-devi. The Ramayana states:
Lord Ramachandra entered Ayodhya in the midst of a great festival. He was greeted on the road by the princely order, who showered his body with beautiful, fragrant flowers, while great personalities like Lord Brahma and other demigods glorified the activities of the Lord in great jubilation.
Lord Rama was dressed up in royal style and was decorated with garlands and ornaments. Lord Rama mounted a lavishly decorated chariot and Bharata took up the reins, while Satrughna held the royal white umbrella. On either side stood Vibhishana and Lakshmana, waving a fan and a chamara. As Rama proceeded towards Ayodhya, a huge procession followed Him, while all the monkeys, appearing in human form, rode elephants. Men and women, children and the elderly gazed upon Rama as though they were getting back their lost lives. While waving their clothes and jumping with excitement, the people shouted, “ Our beloved prince has returned! All glories to Lord Rama, the maintainer of His devotees.”
At Mayapur, murtis of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita-devi are taken out on a colorful procession in the midst of kirtana. Oil lamps are placed all through the campus to welcome Their Lordships following in the footsteps of the residents of Ayodhya. Fireworks abound, and rangolis are put up to receive the Lord.
During this month of Kartik the devotees celebrate the pastimes of Lord Krishna as a young child. Damodara-lila is a sweet pastime of the Lord showing us how He could be bound by the love and affection of His devotees. Every evening throughout the month, the temple is bathed in the warm glow of little lamps. The devotees offer ghee lamps to the accompaniment of Damodarashtaka.
Jhulan Yatra
Jhulana-yatra is a festival to celebrate Radha Krishna’s pastime of swinging on a golden swing everyday until Balarama-purnima.
At Mayapur, Radha Madhava is decorated nicely and seated on a swing . All devotees wait patiently in a queue to swing Their Lordships. The swing (jhulana) beautified with splendid flower decorations, colorful beads, etc. A special flower rope is used to pull the swing. An arotik is performed after Sri Sri Radha Madhava are seated on the swing, and devotees bring a variety of bhoga to please Their Lordships. Kirtana and bhajans go on for almost two hours, and many visitors join in to pull Their Lordship’s swing.
In this regard Sri Hari-bhakti-vilasa states,
To please Sri Hari, devotees hold numerous festivals on every occasion and continuously perform sankirtana. According to their ability, the devotees serve the Lord during the summer by placing Him on the boat, taking Him out on a procession, applying sandalwood on His body, fanning Him with chamara, decorating Him with jeweled necklaces, offering Him palatable foodstuffs, and bringing Him out to swing Him in the pleasant moonlight.
Janmastami
Though unborn and eternal, the Supreme Lord, of His free will and causeless mercy, incarnates to deliver the pious and annihilate the miscreants. Lord Krishna appeared as the son of Vasudeva and Devaki, but had His childhood pastimes at Gokula, Vrindavan.
Janmashtami is celebrated very gorgeously in Mayapur. The Bhagavatam classes focus on the transcendental tattva, janma and karma of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, during the week ending with Janmashtami. On the eve of Janmashtami, an adhivasa ceremony is performed in the evening to invoke auspiciousness and help devotees prepare themselves for the next day’s festival.
On Janmashtami day, the mood of a great festival sets in at Mayapur. There is a virtual flood of thousands of visitors and guests that traffic control to keep people always on the move is organized. A variety of cultural programs entertain the guests. The altar is beautifully decorated with colorful flowers. A new outfit is offered Sri Sri Radha Madhava. They are marvelously dressed with a variety of flowers, jewels and ornaments. Devotees wait eagerly to take darshan of Them. The Srimad-Bhagavatam class is given by two or three devotees, separately in English and Bengali.
Devotees bring water from Ganga to bathe Radha Madhava during their abhisheka ceremony. Following Srila Rupa Goswami’s directions, special “samskaras” for Krishna such as nama-karana (“name giving”), vidyabhyasa (“inaugurating His education”), upanayana (“initiation”), etc. are performed with our devotees performing the samskaras.
A grand abhisheka is performed at midnight for the small Radha Madhava Deities while bhoga offering of more than 400 items are offered to Their Lordships with devotion. A maha-arati is performed and Radha Madhava give darshana in another new outfit. The devotees honor anukalpa-prasada (ekadasi prasada) after midnight.
Jagannath Snana Yatra
Snana-yatra is an important pastime of Lord Jagannatha at our temple at Rajapur, Simantadvipa. On this day, Jagannatha, Baladeva, and Subhadra allow Themselves to be bathed by all following the original tradition of worship at Jagannatha Puri. Our devotees as well as hundreds of local people enthusiastically assemble at the Jagannatha temple to perform abhisheka with Ganges water, milk, etc. This bathing goes on for a few hours in the midst of kirtanas glorifying Their Lordships and the chanting of the maha-mantra. Lord Jagannatha’s prasada is also offered to all visitors.
Lord Jagannatha’s pastimes are such that after snana-yatra, Jagannatha, Balarama and Subhadra become “sick”, and, so, must take “medicines” and “take rest” until they become “rejuvenated” enough to go for Ratha-yatra. When they are “sick”, they are offered bhoga containing medicinal herbs without the usual offerings.
Govardhana Puja
Annakuta-mahotsava is a festival commemorating the day when the Lord lifted Govardhana hill to assure protection to His devotees. The Lord assumed a gigantic form and accepted all the offerings made by His devotees. This is recounted in Chapters 24, 25, 26 and 27 of the Tenth Canto of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
Sri Giriraja-sila, who normally resides in the Radha Madhava altar, comes out and the pujaris perform an abhisheka ceremony for Him at noon. An annakuta (“a small hill of rice”) is made and decorated with vegetable carvings, sweets, cakes, sabjis and colored rice varieties. A miniature form of Govardhana and surrounding lakes are constructed by some devotee ladies and children. This is displayed near the Nrisimhadeva shrine (to Lord Nrsimhadeva’s left) and devotees partake while doing parikrama. A feast to the resident devotees is served inside the temple hall.
Gopastami
On Gopashtami day, Nanda Maharaja performed a ceremony for the cows and Krishna (and His friends) in Vrindavan, as He reached the pauganda age. This was the day Nanda Maharaja sent his children Krishna and Balarama to herd the cows for the first time. It was a celebration meant only for men and boys. As Srimati Radharani and Her friends wanted to enjoy the fun, and because of Her resemblance to Subala-sakha, She put on his dhoti and garments and joined Krishna. The other gopis joined in too.
Devotees remember this sweet pastime on Gopashtami day. This is a very special day at Mayapur as we are fortunate to have darshan of the most merciful lotus feet of Srimati Radharani and Her sakhis.
Go-puja is also done on this day. Devotees visit the Gosala, bathe and clean the cows and the Gosala. The glories of the cow and her protection are discussed by senior devotees. All of them feed the cows and partake of a feast near the Gosala.
Gita Jayanti
On this day, 5000 years ago, on the battlefield of Kuruksetra, the Supreme Lord delivered the most confidential and topmost knowledge of devotional service to His lotus feet in the form of the Bhagavad-gita to His dearmost devotee Arjuna, and to humanity at large, in order to help all devotees understand the purpose of life and the way to surrender to Him.
A gita-yajna is performed at Mayapur while devotees recite verses from Bhagavad-gita. A Gita Book Marathon also takes place and devotees take part in actively distributing Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavad-gita to visitors. Usually devotees fast till noon, go to the Ganga for Ganga-puja and bath in her holy waters and a Harinama-sankirtana is held in the evening.
Akshaya-tritiya
Akshaya-tritiya is an important day in Vedic culture as any donation performed on this day for the right cause is declared to yield inexhaustible results. Devotees consider this day as a reminder to surrender whatever they have in the service of Lord Krishna. It marks the beginning of Chandana-yatra.
Chandana-yatra
Chandana-yatra is a festivity that runs for three weeks. To keep the Deities cool during time of scorching summer Sun, devotees apply sandalwood paste (chandana) over Radha Madhava and other Deities. All devotees including children and pilgrims are offered a chance to grind chandana for the pleasure of the Deities. During first week, both large and small Radha Madhava Deities are covered with chandana. During second and third week, small Radha Madhava Deities are entirely covered with chandana.
Nitayanada Trayodasi
Nitai-pada-kamala, koti-chandra susitala – “The lotus feet of Lord Nityananda are cooling like a million moons.”
One should take the shelter of the lotus feet of Lord Nityananda Prabhu, for He is the original spiritual master. It is by the mercy of Nitai that we can obtain love of Krishna.
Lord Nityananda appeared about twenty years before the appearance of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Nityananda-trayodasi is an important celebration for Gaudiya Vaishnavas, as without the mercy of Nitai, one cannot get the mercy of Nimai.
The eve of Nityananda-trayodasi is celebrated for the purpose of invoking auspiciousness. During the adhivasa ceremony performed on that day, auspicious items are offered to the Deities for Their pleasure.
Devotees fast until noon on Nityananda-trayodasi. Their Lordships Sri Sri Pancha-tattva are decorated gorgeously with flowers and tulasi garlands. Nityananda Prabhu’s pastimes from Sri Chaitanya-Bhagavata are narrated during the Bhagavatam class. As Nityananda-trayodasi falls very close to the Gaura-purnima celebrations, the participation of the many visitors, devotees and sannyasis adds more color to the festivities. The visiting devotees experience redoubled joy and mercy, as they are able to enjoy both Nityananda-trayodasi and Gaura-purnima. A maha-abhisheka is performed for Sri Sri Gaura-Nitai and elaborate bhoga is offered to Them. The kirtana plunges everyone into an ocean of transcendental bliss. A feast is then served to mark this glorious occasion.
Advaita Acharya
It is through the entreaties and ardent devotion and sincere prayers of Advaita Acharya, the combined form of Lord Mahavishnu and Sadashiva, that persuaded the Lord to appear as Sri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Advaita Acharya had felt grief for the miserable and ignorant condition of the world, and so by offering Tulasi leaves and Ganga water, He cried for the Lord’s appearance. Being pleased by Advaita Acharya, Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu appeared.
A special mood of receiving the mercy of Pancha-tattva sets in at the temple. The devotees fast until noon on this day. A grand abhisheka of Advaita Acharya is performed with various ingredients, such as fruit juices and colored powders. There is also panchamrita-abhisheka and multi-colored flower abhisheka done at noon, followed by Bhoga offering and Arati. Matajis cook a feast for Advaita Acharya with great love. A tumultuous kirtana accompanies the abhisheka ceremony which surcharges the atmosphere with the ecstacy of hari-nama sankirtana.
Gadadhara Pandit
The dark moon night of the month of Vaisakha is the time when Sri Gadadhara pandit appeared and also left the world. In the Gaur-ganoddesa-dipika, it is described that that person who in Vraja was the daughter of Sri Vrsabhanu Raja, namely Srimati Radharani, is now celebrated as Sri Gadadhara Pandita.
Srila Gadadhara Pandit`s munificent and sweet nature influenced the whole atmosphere on the day of His appearance in Sri Mayapur dham. The beautiful darshan of the magnificently decorated Gadadhara and other members of the Pancha Tattva bring joy into the hearts of the assembled devotees, causing a jubilant and enthusiastic kirtan to ensue, thus inspiring everyone to dance in bliss.
Srivas Pandit
Srivas Angan is the birthplace of Sankirtan movement. Lord Caitanya inaugurated harinam sankirtan in the house of Srivas Thakur. In Pancha-tattva, the bhataakhya (pure devotee) is Srivasa and other great devotees as well.
He is previousy Narada Muni who munificently travelled everywhere to spread the message of Godhead. The lotus feet of Lord which is rarely attainable for yogis and sages are very easily attained by the maid servants and devotees in the house of Srivas Pandit. They could achieve such feat simply by rendering service to the pure devotee Srivas Pandit. Such is the greatness of the devotional service of Srivas Thakur. It was in the house of Srivas Thakur, Mahaprabhu exhibited Sat Prahirya Lila or Mahaprakash Lila, where devotees headed by Srivas Thakur performed Maha abhisheka to the Lord. He is a perfect devotee and most compassionate towards the welfare of all living entities.
Srila Prabhupada’s Vyasa Puja
Srila Prabhupad’s Appearance Day is a very special day for all ISKCON devotees as they joyfully glorify their eternal saviour Srila Prabhupada on His appearance day.
Srila Prabhupada was sent by the Lord to fulfill Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s prediction- Prtvithe ache yata nagaradi grama, sarvatra pracara haibe more nama: In every town and village of the world, My name will be heard.
Srila Bhakti Vinoda Thakura wrote in his Sajjona-tosani, “Soon there will be a time when the chanting of Krishna’s name will be heard in England, France, Russia, Germany and America.”
Srila Prabhupada appeared on Nanadotsava. Nandotsava means: Nanda Maharaja’s huge festival celebrating Krishna’s birth. Nanda Maharaja dressed in luxurious garments and distributed profuse charity to everyone in his kingdom. He gave away opulent cloth and ornaments and two million richly decorated cows to the brahmanas. Vraja was alive with vibrations of Vedic hymns and beautiful decorations and everyone was experiencing unending happiness. Bursting with bliss, the Vrajavasis expressed their joy by throwing butter, yogurt and ghee all around.
One hundred years ago, on that most auspicious spiritual occasion, Srila Prabhupada appeared to fulfill the mission of Lord Krishna. Srila Prabhupada grew up as a pure devotee of the Lord and distributed Krishna Consciousness everywhere.
Srila Prabhupada made a perfect appearance, led a perfect life and had a perfect departure. Srila Prabhupada lives forever through his books. This legacy will always provide the devotees with Lord Caitanya katha and teach everyone to chant the Maha mantra.
Vasanta Panchami
This is the beginning of spring in India. The sastric instruction is that on the fifth day of the waxing moon one should celebrate the arrival of spring in Vrindavana by offering many types of leaves, flowers, and fresh shoots of sprouting grasses to Krishna. Vasanta-panchami is celebrated in Bengal too. This marks the beginning of new life with the full flowering of yellow mustard seed plants. At this time, flowers begin to bloom and nature displays her majestic finery.
Following the tradition, the Deities at Mayapur are dressed in yellow outfits and are offered yellow flowers. Many women can be seen in yellow dresses on this day. Vasanta-panchami is an auspicious day for beginning new projects. Weddings and fertility rites are also performed on this day.
Rajapur Jagannath Ratha Yatra
Original Ratha-yatra in Puri
The Jagannatha Rathayatra is one of the major festivals and attended by millions of pilgrims at Sri Ksetra, Puri Dham. For fifteen days, Lord Jagananth remains in seclusion with Maha Lakshmi to enjoy pastimes with her. Now, having taken her permission, He comes out to ride upon His Ratha, and thus performs pastimes for the pleasure of His devotees.
The fine, white sand that covers the road to the Gundicha temple resembles the banks of the river Yamuna, and the small gardens on both sides look just like those found in Vrindavana.
The pullers of Jagannatha’s Rath are known as Gaudas. These gaudas pull the Rath with great pleasure. Sometimes the Ratha stands completely still, and will not even budge an inch, in spite of being pulled vigorously. Thus, the chariot moves by the will of the Lord, and not by the strength of any ordinary persons.
After remaining in Sundarachala for nine days, the Lord returns to Nilachala.
Lord Caitanya took part in RathaYatra in an ecstatic mood. He also discussed Jagannatha katha and His lila in Vrindavan with His intimate associates, such as Srivas Thakur and Svarupa Damodara and performed sankirtan with great ecstatic exuberance.
Ratha-yatra celebrations in Mayapur
At the Rajapur’s Sri Jagannatha Temple, Their Lordships getting dressed in nice outfits and adorned with beautiful ornaments and flower garlands. Amidst a roaring kirtan and in big procession, They are seated on three different chariots. They come to Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir and shower their blessings there for the next seven days. Sometimes even a small chariot with Jaganntha, Baladev, and Subhadra Mayi deities comes in front, pulled by the children. Jagannatha-astaka is recited and wonderful kirtan accompanies the chariots.
Every evening, during the seven days of a festival, lamps are offered to Sri Jagannatha, Baladeva and Subhadra and all the ladies blissfully serve Lord Jagannatha by offering a nice bhoga they prepare daily for pleasure of the Lord.
After seven celebration days, the return Ratha Yatra (a.k.a. Ulta Ratha) takes place with pomp and splendor, returning to Rajapur temple.
Radhastami
The divine appearance day of Srimati Radharani, the eternal consort of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead
Radhastami is a very special day for all the Gaudiya Vaishnavas, as by obtaining the mercy of Srimati Radharani one can easily achieve Krishna-prema. Radha is Krishna’s dearest servant, and is His pleasure potency.
Srimati Radharani’s glorious birth occured on the eighth day of the bright moon in the month of Bhadra. Although generally not full on that day, the moon appeared full to celebrate Radharani’s appearance in this world. Among all of Krishna’s consorts in Sri Vrindavana, Srimati Radharani is the greatest. In fact, She is the queen of Vrndavana. At Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, we are fortunate to also worship Her eight dearest friends Lalita, Tungavidya, Chitra, Champakalata, Vishakha, Indulekha, Rangadevi and Sudevi.
As with Balarama-purnima and Janmashtami, an adhivasa ceremony to prepare the devotees is conducted on the eve of Radhashtami.
On Radhashtami day, a new outfit is offered to Srimati Radharani and the temple is lavishly decorated with flowers and garlands. Srimati Radharani’s glories are narrated in the morning Bhagavatam class. A maha-abhisheka is performed at noon with a variety of ingredients and many colorful flowers. Devotee men and women in the Deity kitchen an elaborate bhoga with more than 100 varieties along with many sweet dishes, pastries, and cakes. After the abhisheka, bhoga is offered and maha-arati is performed. Devotees fast till noon and enjoy a transcendental feast in the afternoon.
Cultural programs are presented in the evening to enchant the visitors and devotees.
Nrisimha Chaturdasi
Nrisimha-chaturdasi is the divine appearance day of Nrisimhadeva, Lord Krishna’s man-lion incarnation, who removes all obstacles on the path of devotional service out of His great compassion.
Srila Prabhupada writes (Bhagavatam 7.8.51, purport):
The Supreme Personality of Godhead in His transcendental form of Lord Nrisimhadeva is always ready to kill the demons who always create disturbances in the minds of honest devotees. To spread the Krishna consciousness movement, devotees have to face many dangers and impediments all over the world, but a faithful servant who preaches with great devotion to the Lord must know that Lord Nrisimhadeva is always his protector.
At Mayapur, Nrisimha-chaturdasi is very special as devotees assemble in great numbers and with great joy to observe this festival and chant the glories of Lord Nrisimhadeva. The Srimad-Bhagavatam class focuses on various aspects of Lord Nrisimhadeva’s pastimes, usually given by two or three devotees.
At dusk a maha-abhisheka is performed to our Deity, technically called Sthanu-Nrisimha because of His standing pose, with sandalwood oil and other precious oils. Since the Deity has performed unbelievable miracles in the lives of several devotees, there is naturally great enthusiasm amongst the devotees. Nrisimhadeva is offered a new dress too. After the arati, anukalpa-prasada [i.e. prasada as on ekadasi] is honored by the devotees.
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura, in his Navadvipa-bhava-taranga, writes of the significance that worship of Lord Nrisimhadeva has for a Gaudiya Vaishnava:
Therefore, I pray to the feet of Lord Nrisimhadeva to purify my heart and give me the desire to serve Krishna. Weeping, I beg at the lotus feet of Nrisimha that I may worship Sri Sri Radha and Krishna at Navadvipa-dhama, free from all obstacles.
The devotees aspire for such perfection under the shelter of Sri Nrisimhadeva.
Kartik & Dipavali
This commemorates the return of Ramachandra to Ayodhya after He had conquered over Ravana and rescued Sita-devi. The Ramayana states:
Lord Ramachandra entered Ayodhya in the midst of a great festival. He was greeted on the road by the princely order, who showered his body with beautiful, fragrant flowers, while great personalities like Lord Brahma and other demigods glorified the activities of the Lord in great jubilation.
Lord Rama was dressed up in royal style and was decorated with garlands and ornaments. Lord Rama mounted a lavishly decorated chariot and Bharata took up the reins, while Satrughna held the royal white umbrella. On either side stood Vibhishana and Lakshmana, waving a fan and a chamara. As Rama proceeded towards Ayodhya, a huge procession followed Him, while all the monkeys, appearing in human form, rode elephants. Men and women, children and the elderly gazed upon Rama as though they were getting back their lost lives. While waving their clothes and jumping with excitement, the people shouted, “ Our beloved prince has returned! All glories to Lord Rama, the maintainer of His devotees.”
At Mayapur, murtis of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita-devi are taken out on a colorful procession in the midst of kirtana. Oil lamps are placed all through the campus to welcome Their Lordships following in the footsteps of the residents of Ayodhya. Fireworks abound, and rangolis are put up to receive the Lord.
During this month of Kartik the devotees celebrate the pastimes of Lord Krishna as a young child. Damodara-lila is a sweet pastime of the Lord showing us how He could be bound by the love and affection of His devotees. Every evening throughout the month, the temple is bathed in the warm glow of little lamps. The devotees offer ghee lamps to the accompaniment of Damodarashtaka.
Jhulan Yatra
Jhulana-yatra is a festival to celebrate Radha Krishna’s pastime of swinging on a golden swing everyday until Balarama-purnima.
At Mayapur, Radha Madhava is decorated nicely and seated on a swing . All devotees wait patiently in a queue to swing Their Lordships. The swing (jhulana) beautified with splendid flower decorations, colorful beads, etc. A special flower rope is used to pull the swing. An arotik is performed after Sri Sri Radha Madhava are seated on the swing, and devotees bring a variety of bhoga to please Their Lordships. Kirtana and bhajans go on for almost two hours, and many visitors join in to pull Their Lordship’s swing.
In this regard Sri Hari-bhakti-vilasa states,
To please Sri Hari, devotees hold numerous festivals on every occasion and continuously perform sankirtana. According to their ability, the devotees serve the Lord during the summer by placing Him on the boat, taking Him out on a procession, applying sandalwood on His body, fanning Him with chamara, decorating Him with jeweled necklaces, offering Him palatable foodstuffs, and bringing Him out to swing Him in the pleasant moonlight.
Janmastami
Though unborn and eternal, the Supreme Lord, of His free will and causeless mercy, incarnates to deliver the pious and annihilate the miscreants. Lord Krishna appeared as the son of Vasudeva and Devaki, but had His childhood pastimes at Gokula, Vrindavan.
Janmashtami is celebrated very gorgeously in Mayapur. The Bhagavatam classes focus on the transcendental tattva, janma and karma of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, during the week ending with Janmashtami. On the eve of Janmashtami, an adhivasa ceremony is performed in the evening to invoke auspiciousness and help devotees prepare themselves for the next day’s festival.
On Janmashtami day, the mood of a great festival sets in at Mayapur. There is a virtual flood of thousands of visitors and guests that traffic control to keep people always on the move is organized. A variety of cultural programs entertain the guests. The altar is beautifully decorated with colorful flowers. A new outfit is offered Sri Sri Radha Madhava. They are marvelously dressed with a variety of flowers, jewels and ornaments. Devotees wait eagerly to take darshan of Them. The Srimad-Bhagavatam class is given by two or three devotees, separately in English and Bengali.
Devotees bring water from Ganga to bathe Radha Madhava during their abhisheka ceremony. Following Srila Rupa Goswami’s directions, special “samskaras” for Krishna such as nama-karana (“name giving”), vidyabhyasa (“inaugurating His education”), upanayana (“initiation”), etc. are performed with our devotees performing the samskaras.
A grand abhisheka is performed at midnight for the small Radha Madhava Deities while bhoga offering of more than 400 items are offered to Their Lordships with devotion. A maha-arati is performed and Radha Madhava give darshana in another new outfit. The devotees honor anukalpa-prasada (ekadasi prasada) after midnight.
Jagannath Snana Yatra
Snana-yatra is an important pastime of Lord Jagannatha at our temple at Rajapur, Simantadvipa. On this day, Jagannatha, Baladeva, and Subhadra allow Themselves to be bathed by all following the original tradition of worship at Jagannatha Puri. Our devotees as well as hundreds of local people enthusiastically assemble at the Jagannatha temple to perform abhisheka with Ganges water, milk, etc. This bathing goes on for a few hours in the midst of kirtanas glorifying Their Lordships and the chanting of the maha-mantra. Lord Jagannatha’s prasada is also offered to all visitors.
Lord Jagannatha’s pastimes are such that after snana-yatra, Jagannatha, Balarama and Subhadra become “sick”, and, so, must take “medicines” and “take rest” until they become “rejuvenated” enough to go for Ratha-yatra. When they are “sick”, they are offered bhoga containing medicinal herbs without the usual offerings.
Govardhana Puja
Annakuta-mahotsava is a festival commemorating the day when the Lord lifted Govardhana hill to assure protection to His devotees. The Lord assumed a gigantic form and accepted all the offerings made by His devotees. This is recounted in Chapters 24, 25, 26 and 27 of the Tenth Canto of Srimad-Bhagavatam.
Sri Giriraja-sila, who normally resides in the Radha Madhava altar, comes out and the pujaris perform an abhisheka ceremony for Him at noon. An annakuta (“a small hill of rice”) is made and decorated with vegetable carvings, sweets, cakes, sabjis and colored rice varieties. A miniature form of Govardhana and surrounding lakes are constructed by some devotee ladies and children. This is displayed near the Nrisimhadeva shrine (to Lord Nrsimhadeva’s left) and devotees partake while doing parikrama. A feast to the resident devotees is served inside the temple hall.
Gopastami
On Gopashtami day, Nanda Maharaja performed a ceremony for the cows and Krishna (and His friends) in Vrindavan, as He reached the pauganda age. This was the day Nanda Maharaja sent his children Krishna and Balarama to herd the cows for the first time. It was a celebration meant only for men and boys. As Srimati Radharani and Her friends wanted to enjoy the fun, and because of Her resemblance to Subala-sakha, She put on his dhoti and garments and joined Krishna. The other gopis joined in too.
Devotees remember this sweet pastime on Gopashtami day. This is a very special day at Mayapur as we are fortunate to have darshan of the most merciful lotus feet of Srimati Radharani and Her sakhis.
Go-puja is also done on this day. Devotees visit the Gosala, bathe and clean the cows and the Gosala. The glories of the cow and her protection are discussed by senior devotees. All of them feed the cows and partake of a feast near the Gosala.
Gita Jayanti
On this day, 5000 years ago, on the battlefield of Kuruksetra, the Supreme Lord delivered the most confidential and topmost knowledge of devotional service to His lotus feet in the form of the Bhagavad-gita to His dearmost devotee Arjuna, and to humanity at large, in order to help all devotees understand the purpose of life and the way to surrender to Him.
A gita-yajna is performed at Mayapur while devotees recite verses from Bhagavad-gita. A Gita Book Marathon also takes place and devotees take part in actively distributing Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavad-gita to visitors. Usually devotees fast till noon, go to the Ganga for Ganga-puja and bath in her holy waters and a Harinama-sankirtana is held in the evening.
Akshaya-tritiya
Akshaya-tritiya is an important day in Vedic culture as any donation performed on this day for the right cause is declared to yield inexhaustible results. Devotees consider this day as a reminder to surrender whatever they have in the service of Lord Krishna. It marks the beginning of Chandana-yatra.
Chandana-yatra
Chandana-yatra is a festivity that runs for three weeks. To keep the Deities cool during time of scorching summer Sun, devotees apply sandalwood paste (chandana) over Radha Madhava and other Deities. All devotees including children and pilgrims are offered a chance to grind chandana for the pleasure of the Deities. During first week, both large and small Radha Madhava Deities are covered with chandana. During second and third week, small Radha Madhava Deities are entirely covered with chandana.
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