Nimbarkas

Nimbarkas are followers of the Nimbarka Sampradaya, a Vaishnavite tradition within Hinduism that traces its lineage to the sage Nimbarka. The exact dating of the movement is uncertain, but it is generally placed in medieval northern India. The tradition is known for its distinctive philosophy, called dvaitadvaita or bhedabheda, which holds that the individual soul and the Supreme are simultaneously distinct and non-distinct in their relationship, with Krishna as the supreme object of devotion. This framework supports intense bhakti and the ideal of loving reciprocation between devotee and the divine, often with emphasis on Krishna’s forms such as Radha–Krishna.

The Nimbarka school regards the Brahma Sutras as a foundational text, supplemented by Nimbarka’s own commentary, known as the Anubhashya. Other classical scriptures, including certain portions of the Upanishads and the Bhagavata Purana, are also engaged within the tradition. Devotional practices center on temple worship, nama-sankirtana (chanting the divine names), and a focus on Krishna in a romantic devotional mood, with the aim of realizing prema (divine love) for ultimate union with the divine.

Historically, the movement established monastic lineages and temple centers, particularly in sacred northern sites such as Mathura and Vrindavan, and disseminated its teachings to other regions. In modern times, Nimbarka Vaishnavism maintains a presence in India and among global Vaishnava communities, preserving its guru–shishya lineage and traditional rites, rituals, and festivals.