Appearance Day of Sri Rasikananda

What is the Appearance Day of Sri Rasikananda?

The Appearance Day of Sri Rasikananda is the day Gaudiya Vaishnavas remember the coming of Sri Rasikananda Deva, also called Rasika Murari, to this world. In 2026 it is Tuesday, 10 November.

Significance

According to his biography, Sri Rasikananda appeared on the first day of the bright fortnight of Kartika, during the night of Dipamalika, when houses are decorated with rows of lamps. His father was Sri Acyuta Deva, the king of Rohini, and his mother was Bhavani Devi. As a young man he longed to find a spiritual master, and a voice from the sky told him that he would become the disciple of Sri Syamananda Prabhu.

The next morning Sri Syamananda appeared on the path, embraced him, and later initiated him and his wife with the Radha-Krishna mantra. Sri Syamananda gave him the service of Sri Radha-Govinda Deva at Gopiballabhapur, which he performed with such skill that the devotees were charmed. Dipamalika is a name for the festival of lamps, also called Dipavali.

How to observe it

Hear the story of his meeting with Sri Syamananda Prabhu, chant the holy names, and offer your service to the Deity with the same attention he gave. The day is shared with Govardhana Puja, with its Annakuta offering, and with Bali Daityaraja Puja.