Among the holy saints in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, Srila Raghunath Bhatta Goswami holds a special place as one of the Six Goswamis of Vrindavan, chosen by Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu to establish the foundations of the bhakti movement. Gaudiya temples and spiritual centers like ISKCON Gurugram observes his disappearance day with honor and devotion. This day is important in the Gaudiya calendar, inspiring devotees to reflect on the true meaning of surrender towards Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Early Life and Divine Association
Srila Raghunath Bhatta Goswami was born in Ramapura, on the banks of the Padma River in East Bengal, around 1505 CE. His father, Tapana Mishra, was a devout Vaishnava and a close associate of Lord Chaitanya. From a young age, Raghunath was immersed in Vedic studies, becoming proficient in Sanskrit grammar, and scriptural knowledge.
When Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited their home, young Raghunath would lovingly massage His feet and clean His eating area. These simple yet heartfelt services earned him the Lord Gauranga’s affection. Later, he travelled to Jagannath Puri, where he spent eight months serving Mahaprabhu, cooking for Him and receiving His personal blessings. The Lord gifted him a Tulsi garland from His own neck—a symbol of intimate connection.
Surrender and Instruction
After the passing of his parents, Raghunath returned to Puri and again served Mahaprabhu. Eventually, the Lord instructed him to go to Vrindavan and study the Bhagavatam and other scriptures under Rupa Goswami and Sanatana Goswami. This marked his formal inclusion among the Six Goswamis, the spiritual architects of Gaudiya Vaishnavism.
In Chaitanya Charitamrita (Antya-lila 6.161–162), it is mentioned:
“Raghunath Bhatta Goswami was a pure devotee, always absorbed in the chanting of the holy names. He never criticized anyone and was always engaged in glorifying Krishna.”
His Devotion and Preaching
Unlike some of the other Goswamis, Srila Raghunath Bhatta did not write extensive philosophical texts. His contribution was through kirtan, recitation of Srimad Bhagavatam, and personal example. He was known as Kirtana Acharya, and his melodious recitations of Krishna’s pastimes would deeply move listeners.
His preaching was subtle yet powerful—he inspired many through his purity, humility, and surrender. Among his disciples were Srila Krishnadas Kaviraj Goswami, the author of Chaitanya Charitamrita, and Gadadhar Bhatta Goswami, a renowned poet.
In Vrindavan, his disciples built a temple for Gaura Govinda, and his padukas (wooden sandals) and Tulsi mala gifted by Mahaprabhu are still worshipped at Bhatt Ji ke Haveli, a sacred site in Vrindavan.
Legacy in Gaudiya Calendar Events
The disappearance day of Srila Raghunath Bhatta Goswami is a holy day in the Gaudiya calendar for devotees to gather and chant, read from the Bhagavatam, and reflect on the qualities of a true Vaishnava. In centers of spiritual education like ISKCON Gurugram, his life is studied as a model of unalloyed bhakti, free from pride, credit, or personal ambition.
His legacy reminds us that devotional service is not measured by scholarly output alone, but by sincerity, humility, and love for Gauranga.
Conclusion: A Saint of Pure Heart
Srila Raghunath Bhatta Goswami’s life is a unique example of devotion in action. On his disappearance day, let us honour his memory by deepening our commitment to chanting the holy names, serving the Vaishnavas, and participating in Gaudiya calendar events that keep the flame of bhakti alive.
Whether you’re attending a spiritual education program in Gurugram or observing the day at home, his life offers timeless inspiration for every seeker on the path of Krishna consciousness.