Narotamma das Thakur

[Guest guest]

This is late because I could not get on line yesterday.

 

With great affection Lokanatha Gosvami handed over his dear

disciple, Narottama, to the hands of Srinivasa. Again and again he

instructed Narottama, "Always remember to serve the Deities and dedicate

your life to spreading the sankirtana movement." Narottama happily accepted

these instructions as his life and soul, and Srinivasa accepted the charge

of Narottama jubilantly. Putting Syamananda and Narottama under the care of

Srinivasa, Sri Jiva said, "From now on, these boys are yours." He ordered

Syamananda, "First go to Gauda, then travel to Utkala via Sri Amvika Puri."

(This is elaborately described in Bhaktiratnakara). Thus taking the

blessings of all the mahantas, they started their long journey to Gauda. The

carts filled with the priceless treasure of books moved ahead and eleven

armed guards from Vraja followed behind. With a disturbed mind, Sri Jiva

Gosvami accompanied the party to Mathura. The residents of Mathura greeted

them ecstatically and they rested there for the night. Their departure the

following morning, however, was a pathetic scene, no one could bear to see

them go.

 

Narotamma Vilas