PERSONAL INFORMATION
Other name(s): • Caitanya Mahaprabhu • Gaur or Gaur-Hari or Gauranga (for his fair complexion) • Nimai (as he was born underneath a Neem tree) [1] The Divine Life Society
Real name: Vishvambhar Misra [2] Jansatta
Profession: Saint
Date of Birth: Source 1: 18 February 1486 [3] Bhakti Prasad Source 2: 4 February 1486 [4] The Divine Life Society
Birthplace: Nabadwip, Bengal Sultanate (present-day West Bengal, India)
Age (at the time of death): 47 Years
Zodiac sign: Aquarius
Nationality: Indian
Hometown: Nabadwip, West Bengal
Religion: Hinduism [6] The Divine Life Society
Caste: Vaidik Brahmin [7] The Divine Life Society
Age: 47 Years
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FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS
Marital Status (at the time of death): Although he underwent an arranged marriage, since becoming a sanyasi, he followed a complete celibacy.
Wife/Spouse: • First Wife: Lakshmipriya (daughter of a pandit named Vallabhachary; died of a snake bite) • Second Wife: Bisnupriya aka Visnupriya (daughter of the famous Pandit Santana of Nadia)
Parents: Father – Pandit Jagannath Misra Mother – Sachi Devi (daughter of the Indian scholar Nilamber Chakravarti)
Siblings: His eight elder sisters died shortly after their birth. His ninth sibling, a brother named Viswarup, joined a South Indian monastery at the age of 16, as he was compelled to marry against his will.
Father: Pandit Jagannath Misra
OTHER INFORMATION
Date of Death: 14 June 1533
Place of Death: Puri, Gajapati Kingdom (present-day Odisha, India)
Death Cause: Disappeared [5] Sri Gauranga Ashram
INTERESTING BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, an esteemed Indian saint of the 15th century, is revered as a divine incarnation, embodying the combined essence of Lord Krishna and Radharani. His profound impact on spirituality is epitomized in his establishment of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, a religious movement that emphasizes devotion to Krishna, and the philosophical framework of Achintya Bheda. His life and teachings continue to resonate across generations, fostering a deep appreciation for devotion and love for God.
Born under the serene glow of a full moon and beneath the protective branches of a neem tree, Chaitanya’s early life was marked by profound spiritual inclinations. He pursued his education at the school of Vasudeva Sarvabhauma, a renowned philosopher known for his expertise in Nyaya Shastra, where he explored the nuances of navya nyaya or new logic. Guided by his teacher Sudarshan, he acquired foundational knowledge in Sanskrit, with his studies culminating under the mentorship of his guru, Pandit Gangadas. However, a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey occurred in 1509, following the passing of his father, when he traveled to Gaya to perform the sacred ceremony of Śrāddha. It was here that he encountered the esteemed saint Swami Isvara Puri, who would become his spiritual guide. Embracing the teachings of Krishna, Chaitanya’s devotion deepened as he chanted sacred names like “Krishna, Krishna!” and “Hari Bol, Hari Bol!” immersing himself in a divine love that transcended the material world.
One of the most significant moments in Chaitanya’s life was a divine experience at the Gadadhar temple, where he beheld the footprints of Lord Krishna. Overcome by emotion, he entered a profound state of meditation, tears streaming from his eyes as he became immersed in divine love. Upon regaining consciousness, he beseeched Swami Isvara Puri for initiation into the mysteries of Radha’s love for Krishna. In response, Puri imparted a ten-lettered mantra that would guide Chaitanya on a contemplative path filled with devotion. His life became a tapestry of ecstatic love for Krishna, often foregoing basic needs as he cried out in longing, “Lord Krishna, my Father! Where art Thou?” This fervent devotion led him into seclusion, where he longed to visit Vrindavan, though his companions directed him back to his home in Nabadwip.
Chaitanya’s journey was fraught with extraordinary experiences, including a miraculous episode where he leaped into the sea at Puri, mistaking it for the sacred Yamuna River. Miraculously, he was saved from drowning, caught in a fisherman’s net, and regained awareness only when his companions invoked the name of Hari. His charismatic presence drew numerous devotees, including Nityananda, with whom he organized vibrant processions, celebrating and spreading the love of God through singing and dancing. Despite facing opposition from orthodox individuals, he chose to embrace the life of a sannyasi at the age of 24, emphasizing the need for humility and devotion. Chaitanya’s transformative encounters, such as the miraculous revival of Sreebas’ deceased son, showcased his profound compassion and dedication to uplifting others. As he preached the essential principles of devotion, he garnered followers and converted even influential leaders, including the King of Orissa, who recognized him as an avatar of Krishna.
The legacy of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu continues to flourish through various religious texts, such as the revered Sri Siksastakam, which outlines the benefits of chanting Krishna’s name. His teachings, encapsulated in the “dus mula” or ten root principles, guide devotees toward a deeper understanding of divine love. Today, his birthplace in Mayapur is home to a grand temple housing a 60-foot idol of Chaitanya, symbolizing his enduring influence. The reverberations of his teachings echo in the lives of millions, as seen through the numerous biographies that celebrate his life. From the film adaptations that depict his journey to the annual celebrations of Gaura Purnima, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu remains a beacon of devotion, calling souls to unite in love and chant the holy names of Krishna across the world.
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Note: All biographical information compiled from publicly available sources.