Gaura Purnima: Celebrating Lord Chaitanya's Appearance
Learn about the significance of Gaura Purnima and how Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu brought the sankirtan movement to the world 500 years ago.
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Gaura Purnima, the full moon day of the month of Phalguna, marks the most auspicious appearance of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is Krishna Himself appearing as His own devotee. Over 500 years ago, Lord Chaitanya descended to inaugurate the Sankirtan movement - the congregational chanting of the holy names of God.
Who is Lord Chaitanya?
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486-1534) appeared in Navadvipa, West Bengal, on the full moon evening of Phalguna. He is accepted by Gaudiya Vaishnavas as the Supreme Lord Krishna in the mood of Srimati Radharani, come to taste the sweetness of His own devotional service.
The Sankirtan Movement
Lord Chaitanya's primary mission was to spread the yuga-dharma - the chanting of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra. He traveled throughout India, inspiring millions to take up the practice of congregational chanting (sankirtan) as the most effective process of God realization in this age of Kali.
"In this age of Kali, the holy name of the Lord, the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, is the incarnation of Lord Krishna. Simply by chanting the holy name, one associates with the Lord directly." - Sri Chaitanya Charitamrita
Celebration at Krishna Heritage Center
Our Gaura Purnima celebration includes a grand abhishekam of the Deities, special kirtan sessions, a dramatic presentation of Lord Chaitanya's pastimes, and an elaborate feast of over 56 preparations (Chappan Bhog).
Program Schedule
- Morning Program: Mangala aarti and special kirtan
- Abhishekam: Grand bathing ceremony of the Deities
- Bhagavatam Class: The Appearance of Lord Chaitanya
- Evening Kirtan: Extended sankirtan celebration
- Pushpanjali: Flower offering ceremony
- Grand Prasadam: 56-item feast offering
The Gift of the Holy Name
Lord Chaitanya's gift to the world is the most accessible form of spiritual practice - simply chanting: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare / Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare. This transcendental vibration can be practiced by anyone, anywhere, at any time.
