Gopinath Temple is a popular temple in Vrindavan. According to legend,it was created by MadhuPandit, a close supporter of Gadadhar Pandit. Inside the temple, there are three keyidols of Gopinathji, Radhika and Jahnava. Among them, the idol of lord Gopinath was initially created in 5000 years ago by Vajarnaba, who is regarded as the grandson of god Krishna. Throughout the oppression of Mughal king Aurangzeb, the original idols of Gopinathji, Radhika and Jahnava was shifted to Jaipur along with other idols.
The idols in Gopinath Templeare worshipped by MadhuPanditGoswamiwho was one of the close associates of guru Chaitanya. He was also a close loving companion of six other Goswamis in Vrindavan. According to legend, the idol of Gopinathji was lost for long period of time. However, one great devotee named Paramananda Bhattacharya revived the lost idol. Radhanath Swami defined the story behind the re-emergence of Gopinathji throughout his journey to Vrindavan. It was stated that one night lord Gopinath appeared in the dream of Paramananda Bhattacharya and told his whereabouts under a tree named VamshiVata.
Thus, according to the dream Paramananda went there and revived the idol. Adjacent to popular place Vanshivat, on the panel of River Yamuna, Paramananda Bhattacharya along with MadhuPandit used to worship lord Radha Krishna couple with extreme devotion.
In accordance with another version, once river Yamuna had over flooded and the original VamshiVata Tree got deracinated. Thus, the devotee Paramananda Bhattacharya took a branch of the tree and planted it so that the tree can grow again. It was during that time that he discovered the original lovely idol of lord Gopinathji. He started to worship the idol and later the idol was handed over to MadhuPanditGoswami. It is explained that when MadhuPandit perceived the lovely idol of Gopinath, he decided to dedicate his life and spirit for the sake of lord Gopinath.