Previously, Abhirama Gopala Thakura (Sri Rama Dasa) was one of the dvadasa gopalas (12 cowherd boys) who descended with Lord Balarama. (See appendix for listing of the dvadasa gopalas) In Gaura-lila he was an intimate Devotee of Sri Nityananda Prabhu.
 
   One day while overwhelmed in the ecstasy of sakhya rasa (loving friendship), Abhirama wanted to play a flute like a cowherd boy. After searching the forest he found a log which sixteen men couldn't move. Astounding everyone, Abhirama grabbed the log, made it into a flute, and played it. In the mood of a cowherd boy Abhirama Gopala carried a bull whip named Jaya Mangala. Anyone who touched it became infused with Krishna prema. It's said Srinivasa Acarya received pure love of Krishna in this way.
 
   Abhirama Gopala was a powerful acarya of Gaudiya Vaisnavism. Atheists and blasphemers would flee in terror upon seeing him. He was Lord Nityananda's most vigorous preacher. Learned in all the scriptures, he also excelled in music, song, dance. Abhirama used his home for preaching and serving Vaishnava pilgrims, not for sleeping. His house resounded with kirtana and Krishna katha, and was often visited by pure Devotees. His samadhi is in 64 Samadhis Area.