Raghunatha Bhatta Goswami (c. 1505–1579) was a prominent saint in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition and one of the revered Six Goswamis of Vrindavan, the leading disciples of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
He is best known for his unparalleled recitation of the Srimad Bhagavatam and his service in establishing the worship of the Govindaji deity in Vrindavan.
Key Aspects of His Life
- Early Life & Lineage: He was the son of Tapana Mishra, a devout follower of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. When Mahaprabhu visited Varanasi (Benares), he stayed at Tapana Mishra’s home, where the young Raghunatha Bhatta had the opportunity to serve him personally by massaging his legs and washing his dishes.
- The Order to Go to Vrindavan: After his parents passed away, he traveled to Puri to serve Lord Chaitanya. After staying there for eight months, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu ordered him to go to Vrindavan, placing him under the care of Rupa Goswami. He was specifically instructed to continuously study the Srimad Bhagavatam.
- Recitation of Srimad Bhagavatam: Raghunatha Bhatta Goswami was renowned for his beautiful recitation of the Srimad Bhagavatam. It is said that he could recite the verses in three different distinct melodies (ragas), often becoming overwhelmed with spiritual ecstasy and exhibiting symptoms like fainting or weeping while reciting.
- Temple Construction: While he did not write extensive theological texts like the other Goswamis, he played a crucial role in the development of Vrindavan. He had a wealthy disciple who funded the construction of the magnificent Govindaji Temple for the deity worshipped by Rupa Goswami.
- Artistic Skill: He was known to be an expert cook. He would often cook for the Govindaji deity and the other Goswamis, preparing complex dishes that were praised by Rupa Goswami as being like “nectar.”
His Legacy
Unlike Jiva Goswami or Rupa Goswami, Raghunatha Bhatta left no written literature. His contribution was his personal example of humility, his mastery of the Srimad Bhagavatam, and his dedication to temple worship (archana).
In the Gaudiya tradition, he is often regarded as the embodiment of hearing (shravanam) and chanting (kirtanam) the glories of the scripture.