Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu appeared in 1486 in Navadvipa, in present-day West Bengal, during a lunar eclipse on the full moon of Phalguna. At that moment thousands of people were bathing in the Ganges and loudly chanting the holy names of the Lord. In this sacred atmosphere He appeared as the son of Jagannath Mishra and Sachi Devi. Because of His golden complexion He is often called Gauranga, and devotees understand Him to be Krishna Himself appearing in the mood and devotion of Srimati Radharani. 

His mission was to spread the chanting of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra as the most powerful spiritual practice for the age of Kali.

In His childhood the Lord was affectionately called Nimai, because He was born beneath a neem tree in Navadvipa. As a small child He displayed charming pastimes that delighted everyone. Sometimes He would cry constantly, but the moment someone chanted the name of Hari or Krishna, He would immediately stop crying and smile happily, encouraging everyone around Him to chant the holy names.

As He grew, Nimai performed many sweet and playful pastimes, sometimes mischievously entering neighbors’ homes or playing with other children. His extraordinary beauty and joyful nature attracted the hearts of all the residents of Navadvipa, and His presence filled every home with happiness.

Young Nimai grew up surrounded by loving neighbors and relatives who admired His extraordinary intelligence and beauty. As a boy He was very playful and often visited nearby homes, sometimes mischievously taking sweets or fruits that had been offered to Lord Krishna. Through such charming pastimes He subtly reminded everyone that the Supreme Lord is the true enjoyer of all offerings.

Although He appeared like an ordinary child of Navadvipa, His activities carried deep spiritual meaning. His bright intelligence, captivating personality, and natural attraction toward the holy names made many people feel that this remarkable boy had appeared for a special divine purpose.