Nabadwip (ˌnæbəˈdwi:p) , city , a municipality in Nadia district in the Indian state of West Bengal, , at the confluence of the Bhāgīrathi and Jalangi rivers. The Bhāgīrathi River has shifted its course, cutting the city off from the rest of the district. Reputedly founded in 1063, the town served as the ancient capital of the Sena dynasty. Called the Vārānasi of Bengal, it is an important pilgrimage centre. Caitanya (1486–1533), a Hindu mystic who founded the Vaiṣṇava sect, was born there. It is also noted for its traditional Sanskrit schools. Many devotees from worldwide who adhere to Gaudiya Vaishnavism come to Nabadwip for pilgrimage on the auspicious occasion of the Birthday celebration of Shri Mahaprabhu on the Phalguni Purnima (i.e.