Nityananda Trayodasi is the appearance anniversary of Lord Nityananda.

Lord Nityananda, whose name means "eternally blissful", is the brother of Lord Caitanya. They are traditionally worshipped together, as are Krishna and Balarama.

On Nityananda Trayodasi devotees fast till noon. The day is spent recounting the special glories of Lord Nityananda, or Nitai as He is sometimes known, and in vigorous kirtana. In temples there is a ritual bathing of Gaura Nitai deities.

Lord Nityananda is an avadhuta: one who is not bound by social customs. He acts in pure devotion to His Divine brother in the mood of His servant but His behaviour is sometimes unfathomable.

Nevertheless He is considered more merciful than Lord Caitanya because He is so eager to deliver the mercy of Lord Caitanya. If anyone can please Nitai even in the smallest way, then that person will receive a spiritual grace that will transform his life.

This festival generally falls in February. Devotees enjoy a sumptuous feast in honour of Lord Nityananda who was Himself renowned as a very enthusiastic enjoyer of Krishna prasadam, transcendentally consuming it in superhuman quantities!

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