Hari Gopinath Das

Among the six Goswamis of Vrindavan, Srila Sanatana Goswami holds a paramount position as a direct associate and principal disciple of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. His life exemplifies profound devotion, renunciation, and scholarly dedication, laying much of the philosophical and practical groundwork for the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.

Early Life and Royal Service

Born in 1488 CE as Amara Deva, Sanatana was the eldest son of Kumaradeva and was originally from Karnataka, South India. Along with his younger brothers, Rupa and Anupama (Vallabha), he settled in Ramakeli, Bengal. Due to their exceptional intelligence and administrative skills, all three brothers were compelled to serve in the court of the Muslim ruler, Sultan Alauddin Hussein Shah. Sanatana, known as Dabir Khas (private secretary), and Rupa, known as Sakara Mallik (finance minister), held high governmental positions. Despite their material opulence and political influence, their hearts yearned for spiritual truth, a yearning that intensified with the arrival of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in Bengal.

The Call of Mahaprabhu and Renunciation

The lives of Sanatana and Rupa were transformed upon their first meeting with Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in Ramakeli. Mahaprabhu, recognizing their inherent spiritual inclination and future role in His mission, affectionately addressed them and hinted at their imminent liberation from material entanglement. This encounter ignited an unshakeable resolve in the brothers to renounce their worldly positions and fully dedicate themselves to Mahaprabhu’s service.Sanatana, despite the Sultan’s attempts to detain him, skillfully extricated himself from his royal duties. He feigned illness, and when the Sultan came to visit, Sanatana expressed his inability to continue his service due to his spiritual pursuits. Eventually, he managed to escape from his imprisonment and, after a perilous journey, finally met Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in Varanasi.

Instruction by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

The meeting between Mahaprabhu and Sanatana in Varanasi is a cornerstone of Gaudiya Vaishnava philosophy. For two months, Mahaprabhu personally instructed Sanatana Goswami, revealing profound truths about the living entity’s constitutional position, the nature of devotional service, and the science of Krishna consciousness. This extensive instruction, meticulously recorded in the Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita, forms the basis of Sanatana Goswami’s seminal work, the Sri Brhad-bhagavatamrita.

Mahaprabhu specifically tasked Sanatana with three crucial responsibilities:

To ascertain the lost places of Krishna’s pastimes in Vrindavan.

To establish the proper worship of the Deity of Krishna.

To compile Vaishnava scriptures.

Life in Vrindavan:

Austerity, Scholarship, and Discovery following Mahaprabhu’s instructions, Sanatana Goswami made his way to Vrindavan, where he lived a life of extreme austerity. He wore only a simple loincloth, ate minimal food (often begged), and slept under trees, embodying the true spirit of renunciation. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to fulfilling the tasks entrusted to him by Mahaprabhu.He meticulously explored the forests of Vrindavan, often guided by divine inspiration, and successfully rediscovered many of the sacred sites where Krishna had performed His transcendental pastimes. His tireless efforts, along with those of Rupa Goswami and others, led to the revelation of numerous holy places, transforming Vrindavan from a forgotten forest into the vibrant spiritual heartland it is today.Beyond his groundbreaking discoveries, Sanatana Goswami was a prolific author and profound scholar.

His major literary contributions include:

Sri Brhad-bhagavatamrita: A foundational text that elaborates on the hierarchy of devotion, the nature of bhakti, and the transcendental qualities of Krishna and His devotees. It explores the journey of a soul from a lower platform of devotion to the highest realms of pure love for God.

Hari-bhakti-vilasa: A comprehensive smrti text (code of conduct) that details the rituals, etiquette, and practices of Gaudiya Vaishnava devotion. It serves as a practical guide for devotees, covering everything from daily routines to elaborate festivals.

Laghu-bhagavatamrita: A concise summary of the Brhad-bhagavatamrita, focusing on the supremacy of Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

Dasama-tippani (Commentary on the 10th Canto of Srimad-Bhagavatam): This work showcases his deep understanding of the Bhagavata Purana, particularly the intricate and esoteric pastimes of Krishna.

Enduring Legacy Srila Sanatana Goswami passed away in 1558 CE, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy. He, along with the other Goswamis, systemized the teachings of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, translating the sublime emotions and philosophical insights of Mahaprabhu into accessible scriptures. His works continue to be studied and revered by Gaudiya Vaishnavas worldwide, providing a profound understanding of devotional service and a practical guide for spiritual life.His life stands as a testament to the transformative power of divine grace and the profound impact one individual, dedicated to truth and devotion, can have on the spiritual landscape of the world. Srila Sanatana Goswami remains an eternal inspiration, guiding countless souls on the path of pure love for Radha and Krishna.

Jaya Srila Sanatana Goswami!!