Born in the village of Torda, Gujarat, on Maha Sud 8, Samvat 1837 (1780 CE), Gopalanand Swami was originally named Khushal Bhatt. He was born to Motiram Bhatt and Jiviba. In his youth, he showed exceptional spiritual and intellectual gifts, mastering the four Vedas, six scriptures, eighteen Puranas, and historical texts like the Mahabharata. His mere presence brought happiness to others, earning him the nickname “Khushal,” meaning joyful.
In his youth, Khushal Bhatt dedicated himself to the service of Lord Swaminarayan for the spiritual upliftment of society. On Kartik Vad 8 V.S. 1864 (1807 C.E.), Lord Swaminarayan himself initiated him into the sainthood in Gadhpur, at Dada Khachar’s darbar, naming him Gopalanand Swami.
Gopalanand Swami was known for his incredible divine powers (siddhis), a testament to the grace of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan. It is believed that through his will (sankalp), he could cause cosmic dissolution or even stop the movement of the sun and moon. Among the 3,000 Nand Santo, Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan manifested the most divine power through him, making him one of the most beloved and intimate sadhus of the Sampraday.
After Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan’s departure from Earth, Gopalanand Swami was appointed as the mediator of the entire Swaminarayan Sampraday, was instructed to look after Acharya Maharajshree of both desh, and was entrusted to make sure the fellowship remained under the agyna of both Acharya Maharajshree. This was a role he fulfilled with great wisdom and compassion. He was known for his kind nature and his ability to quickly rid individuals of vices such as lust, anger, and greed, helping them attain both worldly and spiritual happiness. So great was his spiritual stature that even other Nand Santo and devotees considered it a great fortune to be in his presence.
The deep respect for Gopalanand Swami is highlighted in an account involving Gunatitanand Swami. When appointed as the Mahant of Junagadh, Gunatitanand Swami agreed to the position only on the condition that Gopalanand Swami would visit him for one month each year to perform ‘Katha Varta’. This agreement shows the profound respect he was shown by his peers.
In addition to his Satsang Vicharan, Gopalanand Swami made significant contributions to the Sampraday’s literature, composing over 25 scriptures. He served Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan for 22 years before continuing to preserve and guide the Satsang for another 22 years. His Earthly presence spanned 71 years, 2 months, and 27 days until he returned to Akshardham on Vaishakh Sud 5, Samvat 1908 (1852 C.E.), in the village of Vadtal. His life exemplifies a complete dedication to Bhagwan and to the service of humanity.