Advanced search

Based on the life of Shri Krishna Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486-1533), a Hindu mystic and founder of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, who also was known as Nimai due to his being born underneath a Neem tree. Nimai begins life as a scholar, but over time he becomes dissatisfied with learning and knowledge and longs for a more spiritual life. His spiritual journey convinces him that people can pray directly to Krishna, foregoing the priests and temples, which upsets the Vaishnavas in Nadia, his region. They become further enraged when he begins to sing and dance to Krishna, which has never been done before. But he gains a loyal following, and he wins the Vaishnavas over, eventually becoming their leader. He performs miracles, such as appearing as the avatar of Krishna, and curing the sick. He embraces people of low caste, and holds processions in the streets, where everyone dances and sings Krishna's name. His list of enemies grows. Throughout the film, Nimai shows compassion and tolerance to everyone regardless of their caste or creed, and preaches love and forgiveness. But all the while, Nimai wrestles with his demons. He longs to purify himself of his pride, his ego, and his earthly possessions. His family fear that one day he may become an ascetic and wander off into the wilderness, as many holy men are wont to do. As his spiritual following grows and his popularity spreads, will Nimai suffer the failings of those before him, succumbing to his own cult of personality? Or will he practice what he preaches and leave all his earthly pleasures, including his own family?