Author: Purushottam Nitai Das

Are you ready to choose Krishna in all circumstances?

Let us honestly ask ourselves, “If given an option to choose between Krishna and His material energy, what are we going to choose?” Are we going to select Krishna, or are we going to opt for His energy so that we can enjoy disproportionately in this world?

Krishna has given us the free will to exercise our choice. He never interferes with our free will. But the Supreme Lord always tests us to check if you and I really love Him or if we love to live without Him.

For example, before the start of the Mahabharata war, Krishna gave both Arjuna and Duryodhana the opportunity to exercise their free will. Both had to choose either Krishna or Krishna’s Narayani Sena (army). Before they expressed their desire, Krishna also made it clear that He would not be fighting during the war, but His powerful army, the Narayani Sena, would be fighting.

Arjuna had made up his mind, and Duryodhana was also not confused. Arjuna, without any hesitation, chose Krishna, and Duryodhana was jubilant because he got the mighty Narayani Sena. In the end, both were happy because they got what they wanted.

Like Arjuna and Duryodhana, in our life too, you and I get opportunities to exercise our free will. Whether we choose Krishna or Krishna’s material energy shows what our heart longs for.

Krishna Knows the Real Desire of Our Heart

Most of us are still addicted to material life. We just want to live and enjoy without Krishna. Even when we approach Krishna, we mostly ask Him to satisfy our material desires. We never desire to satisfy Krishna’s desire. Krishna is the Supreme Lord; He resides in everyone’s heart, so He knows what is there in our heart.

Īśvaraḥ sarva-bhūtānāṁ hṛd-deśe ’rjuna tiṣṭhati — “The Supreme Lord is situated in everyone’s heart, O Arjuna.” (Bhagavad-gītā 18.61)

We can fool the world, but not Krishna. We can show the world that we are great devotees of the Lord, but the Lord knows what kind of devotees we are.

Caitanya-caritāmṛta tells the story of Rāmadāsa Viśvāsa, who chanted the holy name of Lord Rama twenty-four hours a day. Seeing his devotion to Lord Rama, Raghunatha Bhatta Goswami was impressed. But Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was not. The Lord could understand that he was chanting the name of Lord Rama not because he had love for Rama, but because he wanted to become Lord Rama.

“Within his heart, Rāmadāsa Viśvāsa was an impersonalist who desired to merge into the existence of the Lord, and he was very proud of his learning. Since Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu is the omniscient Supreme Personality of Godhead, He can understand the heart of everyone, and thus He knew all these things.” Caitanya-caritāmṛta, Antya-līlā 13.110

The Supreme Lord does not see how we behave externally, but He sees what is there in our heart.

Material Desires Never Bring Lasting Happiness

We nurture material desires or the desire to enjoy like the Lord or become like the Lord because we think they will give us happiness.

But if we turn the pages of history, or even if we reflect upon our own life, we will see that all material desires ultimately become the cause of great suffering. Material desires can never satisfy us because we are spiritual and not material.

Krishna comes to remind us of this again and again. In the Bhagavad-gītā, He repeatedly tells us that we are not the material body, mind, or senses, but pure spirit souls. As souls, we are eternal and are meant to live in peace and bliss. This is possible only when we shun the desire to enjoy this temporary world and turn towards Krishna.

Those who do so never regret it, but those who foolishly think that they can be happy without Krishna voluntarily choose a life of stress, anxiety, and suffering.

Duryodhana chose the mighty Narayani Sena, thinking that it would help him win the war. But without Krishna, victory is phantasmagoria, just as without the sun, quelling darkness is impossible.

Duryodhana ultimately lost the war and his dignity. And whoever was on his side also met the same destiny. In fact, in this world everyone is always defeated.

When We Choose Krishna, Victory Is Guaranteed

Only the Lord is always victorious, and those who are with Him never face defeat. Arjuna was on Krishna’s side, so he too tasted victory.

In the last verse of the Bhagavad-gītā, Sanjaya confirms that those who are on the side of Krishna attain all success and get everything in life.

“Wherever there is Kṛṣṇa, the master of all mystics, and wherever there is Arjuna, the supreme archer, there will also certainly be opulence, victory, extraordinary power, and morality. That is my opinion.” Bhagavad-gītā 18.78

Such a wonderful future awaits us. The only thing we have to do is always choose Krishna in all situations and circumstances. At present, it may look difficult because we are still addicted to material life. Spiritual life does not attract us; it seems boring and unnatural.

We experience this because we have been disconnected from Krishna for several lifetimes. But if we connect with Krishna, then we will begin seeing how pleasurable spiritual life is. We read in the scriptures about the devotees of the Lord who were always in bliss. Even today, we see devotees who have been practising devotion to Krishna for several decades and who enjoy every moment of their lives.

Experiencing the Joy of Choosing Krishna Every Day

We need to put in some endeavour, and Krishna’s love will begin blossoming in our hearts. According to our dedication and commitment, we will experience joy and contentment in our hearts.

For example, if we sit before the Lord in the temple and chant sixteen rounds of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, which takes around two hours, then after finishing our chanting, we feel great happiness. But suppose we spend two hours watching movies or YouTube videos. In that case, we do not feel that joy; in fact, most of the time we feel frustrated afterwards.

This is why it is said that material life appears to be nectar in the beginning but becomes poisonous in the end, whereas spiritual life may appear poisonous in the beginning but is nectar in the end.

If we continue choosing Krishna and practising Krishna consciousness, then we will gradually start experiencing pleasure in devotional service too.

But that is not true for material activities. No matter how much we try to seek happiness from material things, we will not get it. Duryodhana, after getting the Narayani Sena, thought he would be victorious and become happy, but the result was just the opposite.

So, let us be like Arjuna and always choose Krishna—victory and happiness are guaranteed.

Whenever we get to choose in our life, let us always choose Krishna.

Three Reflections

• Krishna always tests us to check if we really love him or we love to live without him.
• Only the Lord is always victorious and those who are with him too never face defeat; Arjuna was on the side of Krishna, so he too tasted victory.
• Let us be like Arjuna and choose always Krishna – victory and happiness is guaranteed.

Ask Yourself

• Given an option to attend a program in the temple or watch a movie or a cricket match or a soccer match what do I choose?

Apply this Teaching

• Once in every week go to temple and chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra in front of the Lord with full absorption.

55th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra 2026 (Bahuda Yatra): My Divine Experience at Gundicha Temple

Devotees were happy yet overwhelmed with emotion during the 55th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra, also known as Bahuda Yatra, which was celebrated on 24th July. They were happy because Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi were now returning to the 3C Albert Road Temple, and a little emotional too because the Lord was leaving the Gundicha Temple, where He had stayed for seven days, giving great pleasure to the devotees.

Ulta Rath Yatra, also known as Bahuda Yatra, marks the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi from the Gundicha Temple to Their main temple.

At Gundicha, which is compared to Vrindavan, devotees had many opportunities to serve Lord Jagannath.

Seven Blissful Days at Gundicha Temple

On 16th July 2026, They came from the 3C Albert Road, Minto Park Temple, riding majestically on chariots to the Gundicha Temple. From the evening of 16th July to the morning of 24th July, They stayed at the Gundicha Temple. During Their stay, They daily gave Their divine darshan and blessings to the devotees.

It was a festive atmosphere at the Gundicha Temple. Thousands of Jagannath’s lovers came daily and felt blessed. Several devotees were engaged in serving the Lord.

Serving Lord Jagannath as a Pujari

This year too, I was fortunate to get pujari (temple priest) service at the Gundicha Temple. It was possible only because of the mercy of Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, Subhadra Devi, Srila Prabhupada, my spiritual master, HH Radhanath Swami Guru Maharaja, and the devotees.

My service was from 10 a.m. till the Rajbhoga offering, i.e., till noon. The service provided me with an opportunity to be near the altar. From there, I could see the beautiful faces of Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi closely and touch Their lotus feet.

During the service, I realized how much devotion people have for Lord Jagannath.

From early morning onwards, devotees were bringing many items to offer to the Lord. Some had cooked bhoga for the Lord at their homes and were carrying it in utensils and tiffin boxes; some had brought sweets; some were carrying fresh fruits; many were bringing flowers, flower garlands, and tulasi leaves for Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi.

By the time I offered the food items brought by one group of devotees, another group would already be waiting with their bhoga offerings.

Many congregation devotees had prepared 56 bhoga offerings for the Lord. The altar would be filled with bhoga items. As soon as one set of 56 bhoga offerings was offered, another set would arrive. Devotees were standing in a queue to make their offerings to the Lord.

At 12 noon, we were supposed to offer Rajbhoga to the Lord. I was asked to finish the offerings quickly and clean the altar so that Rajbhoga could be offered. Since so many devotees were coming to offer food and other sacred items to the Lord, Rajbhoga could not be offered exactly at 12 noon on any of the seven days. But no one complained. The Lord looked happy to see so many devotees with so many offerings.

One day, there were so many Rajbhoga items in large quantities that huge sets of utensils containing food were placed directly on the altar. After Rajbhoga, there was arati of the Lord, in which everyone reverentially participated. Throughout the day, devotees took darshan of the Lord and chanted the Hare Krishna Mahamantra.

Daily Festival Programmes at Gundicha Temple

Apart from the worship inside the temple, many devotional activities were organized throughout the festival. Many attractive Krishna conscious stalls were put up for children, youths, and congregation devotees. There was a prasadam stall and the Gauranga Food Court too. In the evening, there were many cultural programmes.

Every day, the programme would begin at 5 a.m. with Mangala Arati. After Mangala Arati, devotees would sit and chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra. At 8 a.m., there was Guru Puja and Darshan Arati, followed by the Srimad Bhagavatam class from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., breakfast prasadam was served to everyone.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., there was Bhagavata Kathamrita, in which devotees heard the pastimes of Krishna, Lord Jagannath, and Srila Prabhupada from different distinguished speakers, followed by lunch prasadam. The evening programme began at 4 p.m. Thousands of people visited the pandal daily, especially during the evening hours.

The Beginning of the 55th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra (Bahuda Yatra)

After seven wonderful days of serving and taking darshan of the Lord at Gundicha Temple, the time finally came for His return journey. Devotees felt a little sad when the day came for the Lord to leave the Gundicha Temple. But there was also eagerness to see the Lord again on the chariot and pull the divine ropes of the chariot.

On 24th July morning, a large number of devotees congregated to participate in the 55th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra 2026 festival.

The three Lords were brought from the altar of the Gundicha Temple and seated on Their chariots. Before the start of the procession, many cultural programmes were organized, and the Lord’s arati was performed. With the chants of “Jai Jagannath,” “Jai Baladeva,” “Jai Subhadra,” and the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, the 55th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra (Bahuda Yatra) procession began.

The road was filled with devotees, all eager to see Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi returning to the temple. Everyone was eager to pull the transcendental ropes of the chariot.

There were kirtan parties in front of each of the chariots. Devotees were joyfully singing the Hare Krishna Mahamantra and dancing gracefully. Seeing them, many onlookers also joined in singing and dancing. The Hare Krishna Mahamantra and the chants of “Jai Jagannath,” “Jai Baladeva,” “Jai Subhadra,” “Suswagatam Jagannath,” “Suswagatam Baladeva,” and “Suswagatam Subhadra” reverberated everywhere.

After seeing the Lord on the chariot, pulling the ropes of the chariot, and chanting the holy names of the Lord, devotees had big smiles on their faces.

Inspiring Experiences During the Rath Yatra Procession

During the procession, I had touching and inspiring experiences. Devotees from all walks of life were present during the Rath Yatra procession.

I saw one devotee in a wheelchair. There was another devotee who was limping but enthusiastically singing and chanting the holy names of the Lord. He was carrying Back to Godhead magazines in his hand, urging people to buy them.

Initially, I thought he might be having pain in his legs because of walking for hours, so he was limping. Later, when I saw him again after some time, I realized that he was physically disabled. This time, when I saw him, he was holding copies of the Bhagavad-gītā in his hands for distribution. He had a wonderful smile on his face.

One elderly female devotee was making a swastika symbol on the road from where the chariot was about to pass. She did not have any colour or paint. She was simply drawing the sacred symbol with her fingers.

Many people came out of their offices to pull the chariot. People were also standing on terraces and balconies to see the Lord. I also saw some Muslim men and women coming out of their offices and homes to see the Rath Yatra procession.

The Lord’s chariot also passed by a hospital that had a paediatric ward and a casualty ward. I saw some patients and nurses standing near the windows with folded hands, praying to the Lord. Lord Jagannath is so merciful that He gives His divine darshan and blessings even to those who cannot come to His temple because of illness.

At different places, the chariots stopped so that devotees could offer 56 bhoga and arati to the Lord. People showered flowers on the Lord’s chariots. They also offered money and other sacred items to the Lord. Jagannath prasadam was distributed profusely. To serve the devotees participating in the Rath Yatra procession, people constantly distributed water bottles, juices, milkshakes, chocolates, biscuits, and other food items.

Although thousands of people participated in the Ulta Rath Yatra procession, there was no chaos or pushing and pulling. The police personnel had a peaceful time; they hardly had to control the crowd.

As the Rath was passing, the traffic was stopped. Buses, cars, bikes, scooters, and pedestrians had to wait for the Rath to pass. But no one complained. People were not honking their vehicles, quarrelling with the traffic police, or looking upset. In fact, they were admiring the Rath Yatra procession, clicking photographs, and recording videos.

Lord Jagannath’s Return to ISKCON Kolkata

The 55^th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra (Bahuda Yatra), which started at around 1:30 p.m. from TAI Brigade Ground, reached the 3C Albert Road, Minto Park ISKCON Temple at around 6 p.m. Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi were taken from the chariots and seated on the altar of the temple, where They will stay until the next Rath Yatra festival.

At the temple, prasadam was arranged for the devotees. After walking for hours with the Lord and chanting His names and glories, devotees honoured delicious prasadam and felt blessed and satisfied.

After the Deities had been seated on the altar of the 3C Albert Road ISKCON Kolkata Temple, the three chariots were taken back to the ISKCON Newtown Temple, where they will remain until next year’s Rath Yatra festival. A huge shed has been built to house these chariots. Many people perform parikrama of the chariots when they visit the ISKCON Newtown Temple to take darshan of Sri Sri Nitai Gauranga.

Watch the Complete Ulta Rath Yatra Live Stream

Watch the official live stream of the 55th Kolkata Ulta Rath Yatra (Bahuda Yatra) 2026 by ISKCON Kolkata and relive the divine return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi.

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)
• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)
• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)
• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)
• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)
• Day 6 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (22nd July 2026)
• Day 7 – HG Maharaas Prabhu (23rd July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Maharaas Prabhu (23rd July 2026)

Without the association of Krishna’s devotees, it is difficult to make spiritual progress. The beginning of spiritual life is śravaṇam (hearing), and śravaṇam becomes easier in devotee association. Srila Prabhupada established Iskcon so that devotees can come together, chant the names of Krishna, hear about Krishna, discuss the topics related to Krishna, honour Krishna prasadam and remain engaged in the service of Krishna.  

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Hearing Develops the Desire to Attain Krishna

The more we hear about Krishna, the more we develop a desire to attain Krishna.

When we hear about something, we get motivated and put in the effort to attain it. For example, students first hear that IIT is a good college and then get inspired to gain admission to it. In Kolkata, many businessmen are not Bengalis, but they came here because they heard that there is good scope for doing business here.

Hearing helps us understand the importance of things.

For example, when we hear about the glories of Vrindavan, we develop a desire to go to Vrindavan.

The pastime discussed in relations to the verse Srimad Bhagavatam 1.15.11, shows how Krishna always protects His devotees.

In the purport to SB 1.15.11, Srila Prabhupada introduces Durvasa Muni. Most Indians know about Durvasa Muni, so why does Prabhupada introduce him? It is because Prabhupada wanted to spread Krishna consciousness throughout the world. His audience was not only Indians but the entire world.

Durvasa Muni was a mystic brahmana. He would become pleased or angry very quickly. Duryodhana wanted to take advantage of Durvasa Muni’s unpredictable nature to execute his wicked plan against the Pandavas.

He once requested Durvasa Muni to accept prasadam at the Pandavas’ place while they were living in the forest. He specifically requested him to go for prasadam after Draupadi had eaten her meal. Duryodhana was so envious of the Pandavas that he always wanted to harm them. Envious people can go to any extent to inflict suffering upon others.

HH Radha Govind Swami Maharaja once narrated an interesting story. 

A man was going to a forest. A person asked, “Don’t you know that a man-eating tiger lives there?” The man said, “I know about it, and I want the tiger to eat me. Once he tastes my blood, he will come to know that a village is nearby, and he will come and eat the other villagers.” The person, surprised, asked, “Are you mad? Why are you doing this?” He answered, “Because I hate the villagers.”

This is the nature of a person burning with the disease of envy.

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The Deadly Disease of Envy

We have to free ourselves from this deadly disease of envy. Although we can hide it from the world, Krishna knows what is in our hearts. In bhakti, both intent and action are important. The Lord knows our intentions.

We see that Durvasa Muni accepted Duryodhana’s food, but Krishna did not. Instead, He accepted food at the house of Vidura.

Duryodhana thought that when the Pandavas would not be able to provide food to Durvasa Muni, who was accompanied by his 10,000 disciples, he would curse them. According to grihastha-dharma, a householder should offer food and water to anyone who comes to the house, even an enemy.

When Durvasa Muni came with his disciples to the Pandavas’ forest dwelling, Draupadi had already eaten her meal. Draupadi had the Akshaya Patra, which could produce an unlimited amount of food until she had eaten.

Pandavas feared that they would not be able to serve Durvasa Muni. At that moment of distress, Draupadi remembered Krishna, and Krishna, who was with Rukmini in Dvaraka, immediately appeared. He ate one morsel of food, and everyone in the three worlds became satisfied. Durvasa Muni and his thousands of disciples felt so full that they quietly left the place.

When we satisfy Krishna, everyone becomes satisfied, and we too become satisfied. For example, when we chant the holy names of Krishna, we feel happy and fulfilled. We no longer feel that we need anything else.

Great devotees, by their personal examples, show how all material achievements becomes insignificant once one starts relishing chanting the holy names of Krishna.

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Hearing Leads to the Goal of Life

Sanatana Goswami was an important minister of Bengal during the reign of Sultan Husain Shah, but he left everything because he had the holy name of Krishna with him. He teaches us that life’s purpose is to always satisfy Krishna.

This verse, SB 1.15.11, is part of the chapter “The Pāṇḍavas Retire Timely.”  We too should plan our lives in such a way that we do not remain engaged in work our whole lives.

At least the last twenty years of our lives should be dedicated to the service of Krishna.

But how to develop attachment to Krishna?  It is by śravaṇam (hearing). 

Bhakti begins with śravaṇam. By hearing, we develop a strong desire to attain Krishna. Krishna cannot be attained through jñāna, karma, pious activities, wealth, power, or position.

He is attained through pure bhakti. Initially, we may have some desire; we should fan that desire.

And how to fan that desire is explained very systematically by Srila Rupa Goswami, younger brother of Srila Sanatana Goswami, in Nectar of Instruction.  This book has eleven verses. If we carefully follow its instructions, it will gradually lead us to Krishna-prema.

In the first verse of The Nectar of Instruction, Rupa Goswami explains the six urges. The first urge is the urge to speak. Anyone who knows how to use the tongue properly can attain Krishna. We should speak about Krishna or about service to Krishna, and we should honor food that has been offered to Krishna. When we control the tongue, the other senses gradually come under control.

Verse 2 of The Nectar of Instruction explains how bhakti is destroyed.

If we want to protect our bhakti, then we have to have right kind of association.  Jiva Goswami says, “To advance rapidly in spiritual life, chant sincerely and deal nicely with others.”

Give up the association of materialistic people. If you associate with them, you will become afflicted by the viruses of lust, anger, and greed.

We should associate with devotees. Devotee association protects us from many dangers.  The importance of good association can be understood through a simple example from nature.

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Why Association of Devotees are Important

Tigers are generally stronger than lions. A tiger can kill a lion. However, lions live in groups, so together they can overpower and even kill a tiger. The association of other lions protects each lion.

But association also brings some challenges, and we have to tolerate them.

For example, some porcupines huddle together to keep warm during cold weather. However, when they come close, their sharp quills can sometimes prick one another.

Srila Prabhupada always cautioned the devotees that when they live in association, they will have to face some challenges.

HH Niranjan Swami Maharaja once said that Prabhupada had instructed him, “Never leave bhakti under any circumstances.” Once, while staying in a temple, he faced a difficult situation. One morning, he was woken up in a very rude manner, which deeply hurt him. While taking his bath, he thought, “Today I will leave the temple.” Then he remembered Srila Prabhupada’s instruction never to leave bhakti under any circumstances, so he decided to stay.

Rupa Goswami’s teachings help us to cultivate these qualities which help us to properly deal with devotees.

The first three verses of The Nectar of Instruction are about self-improvement.

The next three verses are about interpersonal relationships.

Verse 4 of The Nectar of Instruction explains how to live in satsanga. We should give gifts to others and render service to others, but we should not expect anything in return. If someone serves us, we should accept it gratefully but should not expect others to serve us.

Satsanga means discussing Hari-katha.

There are three benefits of satsanga – Devotees develop a taste for Hari-katha, friendship develops among them, and the desire for sense gratification gradually goes away.

In satsang, relationship is important. Services come and go, but relationships with devotees are very important. And for relationship tolerance is required.

The topmost devotee is one who does not criticize anyone and does not look for faults in others.

Verse 6 of The Nectar of Instruction teaches us to overlook the minor faults of devotees. In Verse 7, Rupa Goswami explains the importance of chanting the holy names of Krishna, and in the later verses he discusses bhava-bhakti and prema-bhakti.

Thus, we see that spiritual life begins with hearing and grows through the association of devotees. If we follow the instructions of great acharyas like Sanatana Goswami and Rupa Goswami, then gradually we can purify our hearts of all impurities and ultimately attain Krishna-prem.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Maharaas Prabhu on 23rd July 2026 at 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

• Day 6 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (22nd July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (22nd July 2026)

Vaiṣṇava Aparādha is too dangerous. Even Lord Chaitanya who is the most merciful incarnation of the Lord does not forgive one who offends his devotee. This was very logically explained by HG Atul Krishna Prabhu in his Srimad Bhagavatam Class at 55^th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.  Speaking on the verse SB 1.15.10, Prabhuji discussed the serious consequences of Vaiṣṇava Aparādha through the examples of Durvasa Muni, Ambarish Maharaja, Gopala Capala, and Srivasa Thakura.

Below article is based on Prabhuji’s Srimad Bhagavatam Class.

The class began with the devotional song Suddha Bhakata Carana Renu by Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura

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If you offend the Lord, then by chanting the Holy Name you can be saved. However, if you commit an offense at the lotus feet of a Vaiṣṇava, then no one can save you. Even the Lord does not forgive those who offend His devotees.

For example, Durvasa Muni was not saved by the Lord when he offended His devotee, Ambarish Maharaja.

Durvasa Muni’s offense

Once, Durvasa Muni came to the palace of Ambarish Maharaja, who was observing a fast. Durvasa Muni went to take a bath. Since the time to break the fast was about to end, the brahmanas suggested that Ambarish Maharaja break his fast; otherwise, he would not receive the fruits of observing it. However, Ambarish Maharaja did not want to take any food before serving Durvasa Muni.

The brahmanas therefore suggested that he break his fast by drinking water. Durvasa Muni, who was taking a bath, understood that the king had drunk water before honoring him with food. With his mystic power, he created a demon, but Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra came, killed the demon, and then began chasing Durvasa Muni.

He ran to save his life. He went to Lord Shiva seeking help, but Lord Shiva said that he could not protect him. Even Lord Vishnu said that He was helpless. Finally, Durvasa Muni begged Ambarish Maharaja for forgiveness, and the king forgave him, thus saving his life.

A man can tolerate the burning sun that falls on his head, but he cannot tolerate the hot sand beneath his feet. Similarly, devotees always surrender at the lotus feet of the Lord, so the Lord does not tolerate any offense committed against His devotees.

We see that Arjuna was prepared to forgive the Kauravas. He was ready to go and live in the forest too. But Krishna was not ready to forgive them. He said to Arjuna, “Become My devotee and fight.”

Lord Chaitanya is Patita-pavana; He delivers the most fallen. Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura says that the qualification for receiving the mercy of the Pañca-tattva is “no qualification.”

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Lord Chaitanya too does not forgive

There is no qualification required to see the deity of the Lord. Just by seeing the deity one gets purified.

In India, I see everything is delayed. But surprisingly, deity worship is always on time.

Two important things in Deity worship are cleanliness and punctuality. In ISKCON, ārati is always on time. I remember that in the Radha Govinda Temple, at 4:15 a.m., only a few devotees would be there, but by 4:29 a.m., a tsunami of devotees would come, and the ārati would start exactly at 4:30 a.m.

The scriptures say that if you see Lord Jagannath on the chariot during Rath Yatra, you will not take birth again in this material world but will attain Vaikuntha. Now, what qualification is required to come onto the street and see the Lord? No qualification is required.

Srila Prabhupada began Rath Yatra in Kolkata. Those devotees who are organizing the Rath Yatra festival are directly assisting Srila Prabhupada and pleasing him.

Devotees are very merciful. For example, I had no interest in spiritual life, but I was reclaimed by devotees. They convinced me to become a devotee of Krishna. Although we are not interested in spiritual life, the Lord comes to drag us back—”Ami bina bandhu, ke ache Tomara.”

When I was in college, I was eating in a restaurant. While I was eating, devotees were preaching. They said, “Whatever you do, ultimately you will become old and die.” Hearing this, I lost all interest in material life and became a devotee.

The Pañca-tattva do not see patra and apatra, whether one is qualified or not. They simply bestow Their mercy upon everyone. Although Lord Chaitanya is Patita-pavana, He does not forgive those who offends his devotees.

The Offense of Gopala Capala Against Srivasa Thakura

Lord Chaitanya did not forgive Gopala Capala, who offended Srivasa Thakura.

In Srivasa Angan, Lord Chaitanya was performing kirtana. The kirtana was extraordinary. All the emotions of the Lord would manifest during the kirtana. It was a spectacle to witness. He would dance and sing and become so ecstatic that He would fall to the ground. Saci Mata prayed to Lord Vishnu, “Whatever service I have rendered unto You since childhood, please give me the fruits of that service. I pray that when Nimai falls on the ground, He does not feel any pain.”

Non-devotees also wanted to see the kirtana, but the doors were closed to them. Srila Prabhupada says, “During kirtana, the doors are generally open. Since Mahaprabhu wanted to dance with His confidential devotees, the doors were closed.”

The atheists who were not allowed to enter were burning with envy. They said, “Why can’t we see the kirtana?” So, they decided to assassinate the character of Srivasa Thakura, in whose house the kirtana was taking place.

One night, they placed items used in the worship of Durga, such as red sandalwood paste, a pot of wine, etc., in front of the house of Srivasa Thakura.

In the morning, when Srivasa Thakura saw these items, he immediately called all the brahmana sajjanas (respectable and learned brahmanas).

In Vedic times, brahmana sajjanas, i.e., exalted and qualified people who knew the scriptures, were called to resolve disputes. People had respect and faith in one another. However, today people are becoming impersonal. There is now almost no interaction among people. We have ATMs, internet banking, web check-in at airports, and so on. People are forgetting how to interact.

So, Srivasa Thakura said to the brahmana sajjanas, “See how fallen I am. I drink wine. I indulge in these activities while externally showing that I am a devotee of Krishna.”

This is the quality of a Vaiṣṇava. He is not interested in receiving respect. He wants to be neglected by society.

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The Consequences of Offending a Vaiṣṇava

For example, Pundarik Vidyanidhi looked like a materialistic person. He lived luxuriously, and no one could understand that he was a great devotee. However, once Mukunda Datta recited a verse related to Krishna, Pundarik Vidyanidhi immediately went into ecstasy and remained in that state for six hours. Seeing his devotion, Gadadhara Pandita accepted him as his spiritual master.

Later, it was discovered that Gopala Capala had planted those items to tarnish the image of Srivasa Thakura. After a few days, he was afflicted with leprosy. Because of his disease, he was rejected by society and had to wander here and there.

Once, he saw Lord Chaitanya on the bank of the Ganges and said to Mahaprabhu, “I am like Your uncle. I am suffering terribly. Please deliver me.” Mahaprabhu responded angrily and said, “You are an offender. You will suffer for millions of births in hell.”

How dangerous it is to commit an offense at the lotus feet of a Vaiṣṇava! Lord Krishna does not forgive such offenses, and even Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is Patita-pavana, does not forgive them.

Therefore, we should never speak harshly to devotees, blaspheme them, or attack them physically. Such offenses destroy our pious results.

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The Glory of Serving the Lord’s Devotees

Jada Bharata told King Rahugana that unless one smears one’s body with the dust of the lotus feet of the devotees, the Lord is not satisfied.

Prahlada Maharaja told Hiranyakashipu that because he had not pleased the devotees, he could not understand Lord Vishnu.

We are fortunate to have the association of devotees and the eternal association of Srila Prabhupada. We have a precious opportunity to dedicate our lives to Srila Prabhupada.

Krishna also says in the Adi Purana, “One who worships Me is not necessarily My devotee, but one who worships My devotee is truly My devotee.”

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Question & Answer

Prabhuji also answered questions from the devotees.

Q: What is the meaning of the dust of the lotus feet of pure devotees?

Answer: The literal meaning is to actually take the dust from the feet of pure devotees and smear it on one’s body. However, it also means serving the instructions of the pure devotees. Personal association is powerful. If we remain in good association, we will be protected.

Srila Prabhupada was always with his spiritual master, although he met him directly only a few times. He met Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura about 10–12 times. Yet Srila Prabhupada was completely dedicated to following guru-vani. The easiest way is to become attached to the order and words of the spiritual master.

Q: How can we ensure that we do not commit offenses?

Answer: There are different types of offenses—some very serious and others less serious. We should be careful not to offend anyone, even non-devotees. We should live by the principle of anudvega-karam vakyam. Insulting people outside the devotional community is also wrong.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Atul Krishna Prabhu on 22^nd July 2026 at 55^th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026 – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

Nabakalebara, the sacred ceremony in which Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva and Subhadra Devi accept a new bodies was discussed by HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu in his Srimad Bhagavatam Class today. Prabhuji also explained how Daru Brahma is searched and how the Brahma Padartha is transferred.  All this was explained using a PowerPoint presentation.

Below article is based on the class which he gave on 21^st July 2026 at the 55^th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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In Kolkata, we are now sitting in Gundicha Temple, this is Vrindavan only. In Jagannath Puri there is Gupta Vrindavan and that is Tota Gopinath temple.

There are many types of worship of Lord Jagannath, and such worship is Nabakalebara.

Nabakalebara means “accepting a new body”. Naba means “new” and kalebara means “body”.  

Nabakalebara is generally performed after 12 years or 19 years.  It is generally performed when there are two Āṣāḍha months (Adhika Āṣāḍha) in the lunar calendar.  It was performed in 2015 and next will be in 2034 after 19 years.

The deities are made of neem wood. In Puri, sandalwood paste is applied to the Lord six times daily. The Lord’s body becomes so soft that one’s hand can go inside it; therefore, during Nabakalebara, the Lord accepts a new body.

The Nabakalebara festival begins about three weeks before Snana Yatra.

Anavasara period, the Lord does not give public darshan, as He is said to be resting after Snana Yatra.

Srila Prabhupada explains, “The word anavasara is used when Śrī Jagannāthajī cannot be seen in the temple. After the bathing ceremony (snāna-yātrā), Lord Jagannātha apparently becomes sick. He is therefore removed to His private apartment, where no one can see Him. Actually, during this period renovations are made on the body of the Jagannātha Deity. This is called nava-yauvana. During the Ratha-yātrā ceremony, Lord Jagannātha once again comes before the public. Thus for fifteen days after the bathing ceremony, Lord Jagannātha is not visible to any visitors.” Chaitanya Charitamrita Madhya 1.122

During anavasara, Lord Chaitanya would feel so much separation from Lord Jagannath that He would leave Puri and go to Ālālanātha.

Vidyapati had two wives—one a brāhmaṇa lady and the other from the Śabara community.

Nabakalebara is performed by the Daitapatis i.e descendants of Sabara.

Lord Jagannath is worshipped beyond the boundaries of any one sampradāya or sect.

Madala Panjika is the traditional chronicle of Lord Jagannath that describes Nabakalebara.

It contains the temple’s history, festivals, rituals, annual records, and detailed instructions for Nabakalebara. It is traditionally written on palm leaves and kept securely inside the temple.

Lord Jagannath has been worshipped as Vishnu, Shiva, Durga (by the Shaktas), and Buddha by some traditions.

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Nabakalebara of Lord Jagannath:

Nabakalebara begins about three weeks before Snana Purnima.

Three Daitapatis stay in the temple of Goddess Bimala, enter deep meditation, fast, and pray for guidance to locate the sacred Daru Brahma. Goddess Bimala gives them direction.

Once they receive indications, they immediately begin searching. The sacred trees may be found anywhere and are not necessarily limited to Odisha.

One tree is for Lord Jagannath (along with Sudarshana Chakra), while the other two are for Lord Baladeva and Subhadra Devi.

Characteristics of Lord Baladeva’s tree:

• Neem tree
• No bird’s nest
• No flowers
• A cobra appears on the tree when the Daitapatis arrive

If the tree does not meet the required characteristics, the Daitapatis return to meditation.

Characteristics of Subhadra Devi’s tree:

• Neem tree
• Located in the middle of a river or surrounded by water

Characteristics of Lord Jagannath’s tree:

• Neem tree
• Large enough for carving the deity
• Bears a sacred mark resembling the Sudarshana Chakra

If the appropriate trees are not found, the Daitapatis continue searching and again return to meditation for further guidance.

Before 1947, the Daitapatis reportedly searched for 18 days without finding Lord Jagannath’s tree. Eventually, they reached a Muslim family’s house in present-day Madhya Pradesh. The owner initially refused permission to cut the tree, and the search party waited outside for two days.

According to the narration, all six children in the family had the same miraculous dream. An elderly lady advised the owner to offer the tree for the Lord’s service. Although he initially suspected black magic, he eventually agreed. These sacred trees are generally very old.

The selected trees are worshipped, ceremonially cut, transported in a grand procession, and finally brought to the Jagannath Temple.

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Carving the Deities and the Transfer of Brahma Padartha

The new deities are secretly carved by sacred craftsmen.

The deities are carved from a single piece of wood. The hands and legs are not carved separately and attached later.

After the new deities are completed, the old deities are brought before them.

Transfer of Brahma Padartha

According to some traditions, the Brahma Padartha is believed to be the Lord’s original sacred essence, sometimes described as a sacred substance or Shaligrama.

An elderly sacred priest is blindfolded while transferring the Brahma Padartha from the old deities to the new deities.

After completing the transfer, he asks only for prasadam. It is traditionally believed that he often leaves his body within a few days. Devotees do not lament, believing that he attains Vaikuntha.

After the transfer, public darshan of the new deities begins.

The old deities are buried in Koili Vaikuntha.

Some traditional Daitapati families observe a period of mourning, perform funeral rites, and later visit Kashi.

The Daitapatis say that the deities are like children. After eating, They regain Their health, and even the Lord’s clothes gradually become shorter.

Every year, new chariots are constructed from Akshaya Tritiya until Rath Yatra. No iron nails are used in their construction.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu on 21st July 2026 at Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026 – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu SB 1.15.8 (20th July 2026)

While speaking on Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 1.15.8, HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu explained how all achievement becomes possible only by the grace of Krishna. Arjuna too acknowledges Krishna’s mercy in this verse. But prabhuji cautioned that depending on Krishna’s mercy does not mean that we should become lazy and stop endeavouring.

Below article is based on the class which he gave on 20 July 2026 at the Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

Krishna’s Mercy Behind Every Achievement

Krishna, after accomplishing His mission, departed to Goloka Vrindavan.

Being separated from Krishna, Arjuna was morose. When he reached Hastinapur, Yudhisthira was surprised to see Arjuna. He could sense that something terrible had happened. So, he asked Arjuna, “Has Krishna completed His pastimes and left for the spiritual world?”

Arjuna, who could not control his tears, said, “I have just lost Him whose separation for a moment would render all the universes unfavourable and void, like bodies without life.” Srimad Bhagavatam 1.15.6

Arjuna then remembers his accomplishments and says that whatever he achieved, it was only because of Krishna.

In today’s verse, SB 1.15.8, he is saying that it was only because of Krishna’s grace that he could conquer Indra and that Maya Danava’s life was also saved.

In our life, whatever we achieve, we receive only by Krishna’s mercy. We might have cracked the IIT JEE exam, learnt music, or cooked a nice feast. All this is because of the grace of Lord Krishna.

Today, sitting in front of Lord Jagannath in the Rath Yatra Pandal, we should reflect on our achievements and should loudly say in our mind,

“O Krishna, O Jagannath, whatever I have achieved, it is only because of Your mercy.”

Even the name that we remember is because of Krishna. If Krishna does not give permission, we cannot even raise our hand. If Krishna does not sanction it, then we cannot do anything; we cannot even blink our eyes.

So, again close your eyes and say in your heart,

“My dear Krishna, whatever I have achieved is because of Your mercy.”

Sometimes, in difficulty, we remember Krishna, but later, after help is provided, we forget Krishna. During an exam we remember Krishna, but if we get a good result, we forget to thank Krishna.

But here we see that Arjuna has not forgotten Krishna. He loves Krishna so much and is now feeling separation from Him. In separation, love intensifies. This is why, sometimes, to increase the devotees’ love for Him, Krishna disappears.

Human Effort & Krishna’s Mercy

For any success, two things are required—our effort and Krishna’s mercy. We learn this in the Damodar Lila.

Many people endeavour hard, but not all are successful. Only when one gets Krishna’s mercy does one get the result. But there are also people who do not put in any effort and think Krishna will give the result.

One is Karmavada: one only works and does not believe in Krishna’s mercy.

Another is Daivavada: one only depends on Krishna’s mercy and does not put in any effort.

But both are required—hard work and Krishna’s mercy.

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The Khandava Forest Pastime Begins

Here we see Arjuna defeated Indra, but he gives all the credit to Krishna. Indra is the king of heaven, and defeating him is not possible for any human being. Indra is so powerful that he can send rain and submerge the entire world. No human can stop him. But there are some foolish people who think they can counteract nature.

There are several demigods who oversee the functioning of this world, and these demigods are very powerful.

Arjuna knows that by his own effort, he cannot defeat Indra, so he thanks Krishna.

When Dhritarashtra gave Indraprastha to the Pandavas, one day Arjuna and Krishna were sitting near a dense forest called the Khandava Forest. All of a sudden, an effulgent and beautiful brahmana of golden complexion, having lotus-like eyes, appeared there. Both Krishna and Arjuna stood and offered him respect.

The brahmana said, “I know both of you. You are Nara-Narayana Rishi. I have come here to beg food from you so that I can be satisfied.”

Krishna and Arjuna agreed to give him food.

Aginidev reveals why he wants to consume Khandava Forest

The brahmana then said, “I am the fire-god, Agni, and I want fire as food. I want to devour this Khandava Forest. I have been trying to consume the forest, but Indra is not letting me do so. Since his friend Takshaka lives here, whenever I try to devour the forest, Indra sends rain and the fire gets extinguished. If you help me, then I can consume the forest.”

Surprised, Krishna and Arjuna asked, “Why do you want to consume the forest?”

Agnideva said, “Once, at a feast, I overate ghee, and because of that I developed a stomach problem. Brahma told me that in the Khandava Forest there are many herbs that can help cure my stomach. Since I was not able to consume the forest, Brahma asked me to approach you both because you are Nara-Narayana Rishi. Brahma also said that in this forest there are many sinful people and demons. They will be killed when I consume the forest. So, my desire is sanctioned by higher authority.”

Arjuna thought that these demons might create problems for Indraprastha in the future, so it would be better to destroy them.

But Arjuna had a problem. He said to Agnideva, “I have many celestial weapons, but I do not have an appropriate bow to hold those celestial arrows. If you can give me a bow and an inexhaustible quiver, I can help.”

Hearing Arjuna’s request, Agnideva began meditating on Varunadeva, and he appeared. Agnideva requested him to help Arjuna. Varunadeva gave the Gandiva bow, an inexhaustible quiver, and the chariot of Soma to Arjuna.

The chariot had a flag bearing Hanuman’s image. It could move at the speed of the wind and the mind and could go anywhere. In the celestial chariot there were divine weapons and armour.

Varunadeva also offered a club to Krishna. Agnideva too offered the Sudarshana Chakra to Krishna. Agnideva offering the Sudarshana Chakra to Krishna is like people taking water from the Ganges and offering it back to the Ganges.

The Battle with Indra and the Saving of Maya Danava

Once everything was in place, Agnideva began devouring the Khandava Forest. Krishna became Arjuna’s chariot driver, and He drove the chariot around the forest. Whoever tried to flee the forest was slain by Arjuna.

Those who were slain in front of Krishna, and that too by a devotee like Arjuna, attained the spiritual world.

As Agnideva was consuming the forest, the fire rose high into the sky, rocks began melting, rivers and oceans began boiling, and the crackling sound of the fire spread everywhere. Everyone, including the celestial beings, became fearful. They approached Indra, asking about the fire. Indra understood what was happening. He began sending rain; the raindrops were as thick as pillars. But before the rainwater could fall on the forest, it evaporated.

Seeing the rain, Arjuna shot several arrows into the sky and created an umbrella over the forest, preventing the rain from falling on it. Takshaka was not there, but his wife and son were. Takshaka’s wife was killed by Arjuna, but his son escaped with the help of Indra.

A fierce battle broke out between Indra and Arjuna. Riding on Airavata, Indra wanted to kill Arjuna. Yamaraja, Kuvera, Varuna, Kartikeya, Surya, the Maruts, and many other demigods charged toward Krishna and Arjuna. Arjuna neutralized all their weapons and defeated the demigods single-handedly.

Although Indra was defeated, he was still pleased because he knew that Arjuna was his son and Krishna was his master.

No one can defeat a person who is supported by Krishna.

Brahma said to Indra:

“Your friend Takshaka is not in the forest, so do not worry. Also, it is impossible to defeat Arjuna because Krishna is with him. They are Nara-Narayana Rishi and worthy of worship. The burning of the forest has been ordained by fate.”

Indra understood and left along with all the demigods.

For fifteen days, Agni burned the forest, and many demons and rakshasas were killed.

Maya Danava Saved

While the forest was being burned, Maya Danava, who was staying underground, came out to escape. Agni charged towards him, and Krishna released His Sudarshana Chakra. Maya Danava immediately surrendered to Arjuna, and Arjuna begged Krishna to spare him.

After fifteen days, Indra returned and, along with Agnideva, glorified Krishna and Arjuna. They requested Krishna and Arjuna to ask for any benediction.

Arjuna asked Indra for all the celestial weapons. Indra replied, “After Lord Shiva gives you the Pashupata weapon, I will give you the celestial weapons.”

When Indra asked Krishna, “How can I serve You?” Krishna replied:

“Let My friendship with Arjuna always remain.”

Agnideva then blessed Arjuna:

“Just as I pervade the universe, similarly you can go anywhere in the universe.”

Maya Danava builds assembly hall for Pandavas

Later, Maya Danava approached Arjuna and said, “Tell me how I can serve you.” Arjuna replied, “Better ask Krishna.”

Knowing that Maya Danava was a great architect, Krishna asked him to build an assembly hall for Yudhisthira. Maya Danava travelled to the Himalayas to bring precious gems such as gold and diamonds, which he used in constructing the hall. He also gave a mighty club to Bhima, one hundred thousand times stronger than an ordinary club, and presented the conch shell Devadatta to Arjuna.

He then built the magnificent Maya Sabha. Later, when Duryodhana entered the palace, he became bewildered by its mystical architecture, and Draupadi laughed on seeing his confusion.

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The Ultimate Goal Is Krishna-prema

After Krishna departed from this world, Arjuna remembered all these pastimes. His extraordinary power also departed along with Krishna.

Srila Prabhupada explains:

“Since the powers are not needed to go back to Godhead, his powers were taken away by Krishna.”

Nothing material is required to go back to Godhead. We see that Kolaveca Sridhara possessed practically nothing materially, yet he had immense love for the Lord.

Simply by hearing, chanting, and serving, we can attain Krishna-prema.

Lord Chaitanya explains that the nine processes of devotional service are the means to attain love of Godhead. Pure devotees do not even desire to return to Godhead if there is no opportunity to serve Krishna there. They simply want to serve Krishna—even if that service is in hell.

The ultimate goal of life is Krishna-prema, and it is awakened through hearing and chanting.

Using Technology in Krishna’s Service

Today, atheistic scientists create destructive inventions such as atomic bombs, which are harmful to humanity.

Maya Danava wanted to offer Arjuna technical and material knowledge, but Krishna indicated that such knowledge is meant for the people of Kali-yuga.

Today, AI is trying to do everything, which can be harmful if misused. AI can write, create pictures, and perform many other tasks. If people become excessively dependent on AI, they may gradually forget how to write, paint, and think logically.

We should not misuse technology but use it intelligently in Krishna’s service.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu on 20th July 2026 at Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026 – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HH Bhakti Purusottama Swami Maharaja on SB 1.15.7 (19th July 2026)

What is the connection between Krishna and Lord Jagannath? While speaking on Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 1.15.7, HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja explained how Krishna’s final earthly pastimes are connected with Lord Jagannath, His mercy upon tribal devotees, Nila Madhava, and the sacred tradition of the Dayitapatis.  Below article is based on the class which Maharaja gave on 19 July 2026 at the Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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Krishna Is the Supreme Controller of Everything

After Krishna leaves the planet, Arjuna is speaking this verse to Yudhisthira. Arjuna says that by Krishna’s mercy, he got the strength to defeat the lusty princes and was able to marry Draupadi by piercing the eye of the fish.

It is not just about Arjuna; whatever strength we get is because of Krishna. Anything that happens to us is because of Krishna. But unfortunately, when something good happens, we think it is because of us, and if something bad happens, we blame God for it.

This is the mentality of demons. Devotees know that everything is done by Krishna, so they give credit to Krishna for everything. Krishna is in the heart of all, and from Him comes everything. Bhagavad Gita 15.15.

Knowledge and remembrance come from Him. We talk because the Lord allows us to talk, and we see because God wants us to see. All our senses are controlled by the demigods.

Demigods are īśvaras. Īśvara means controller. Above the īśvaras is Parameśvara, the Supreme Controller. Krishna is the Supreme Controller, and everything happens because of Him—sarva-kāraṇa-kāraṇam.

Krishna pre-plans everything. This is why Krishna says to Arjuna that, “I have already killed the Kauravas. You do it on the battlefield and take credit for it.”

Although we endeavour, the motivation for endeavour comes from Krishna. It is because of the Lord’s grace that we even think.

This is why devotees are neither too excited upon success nor depressed upon failure. Thus, they are free from karma-bandhana.

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Lord Krishna’s Final Earthly Pastimes

This śloka of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam was spoken by Arjuna when Lord Krishna had already gone to Goloka.

Although it is not mentioned in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, in the scriptures it is mentioned that after killing all the demons, Krishna went to Mathura from Dvārakā. There He blew the conch shell and wore the dress of a cowherd boy. When the Vrajavāsīs heard the conch shell, they understood that Krishna was coming.

So Krishna entered Vṛndāvana, met Nanda and Yaśodā, and married the gopīs. There is also evidence that when both Krishna and Rādhārāṇī were young, Brahmā had got Them married. Again, in Vṛndāvana there was marriage, dance, rāsa-līlā, and all the Vrajavāsīs went to Goloka, the spiritual world. Nanda-nandana Krishna and Rādhārāṇī too went to Goloka. But Vāsudeva Krishna went back to Dvārakā.

In Dvārakā, He started thinking, “I have delivered the world, but what about My family in Dvārakā?” So, we have the well-known incident of the residents of Dvārakā making fun of the sādhus and getting cursed by them. They dressed Sāmba so that he looked like a pregnant lady.

They approached the sages and asked them to tell whether she would give birth to a boy or a girl. The sages got angry and said that whatever she gave birth to would be the cause of the destruction of the Yadu dynasty. A lump of iron came out from Sāmba’s body. The iron lump was grinded, but one small piece of iron was left. From the iron powder, sticks like bamboo but as hard as iron appeared.

Once when there was a quarrel among the Dvārakāvāsīs, they killed each other with the same bamboo sticks. Krishna knew all this. After this incident, He was resting under a tree.

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Jara the Hunter and the Connection to Lord Jagannath

Today, I see people come to Rath Yatra but do not know much about the festival. They also do not know the connection between Krishna and Lord Jagannath.

I will share how Krishna and Lord Jagannath are related. In fact, Lord Jagannath and Lord Krishna are same. I will also share how Krishna and Lord Jagannath are so merciful to tribals and how the tribals are attached to the Lord.

The person who shot Krishna in the foot was a tribal named Jara. Lord enacted this pastime because he wanted to return back to the spiritual world. While he was about to leave, something interesting happens. He called Arjuna and asked him to touch Him. But Arjuna was apprehensive that if he touched the Lord, then all his strength and power would go away with the Lord. But when the Lord asked again, he held Krishna’s hand. And Arjuna lost all his strength. This is why we see that later Arjuna was not able to fight the people when he was taking Krishna’s queens to Hastinapur.

Jara was Vāli in his previous life.

A celestial chariot came to take Krishna to the spiritual world. But for the demons, Krishna left His body. Some say that when Krishna’s body was put on the funeral pyre, His heart did not burn. His heart was thrown into the ocean, and it floated to Puri. That same heart is the Brahma Padārtha in Lord Jagannath’s deity. This is why Lord Jagannath is Lord Krishna.

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The Lord’s Mercy Upon Tribal Devotees

We see here how a tribal is associated with the Lord’s pastimes.

In Lord Rama’s pastimes also, we see how Śabarī, a tribal woman, served the Lord. In fact, she had so much love for the Lord that before giving Him berries to eat, she tasted them to check whether they were sweet or sour. The Vedic rule did not work here. The Lord did not say that He accepts food only from a brāhmaṇa who chants mantras. The Lord happily accepted Śabarī’s offering.

We read how Bhrigu Muni behaved with Lord Vishnu when he wanted to know who among Brahmā, Shiva, and Vishnu is the Supreme Lord. Bhrigu kicked Lord Vishnu to test His tolerance. Although Lord Vishnu tolerated it, His wife, Lakshmi Devi, did not forgive Bhrigu. This is why brāhmaṇas are always poor.

We see how tribals deal with the Lord and how the brāhmaṇas do.

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Nila Madhava, Daru Brahma, and the Dayitapatis

During the first 50 years of Brahmā’s life, the Lord was worshipped as Nila Madhava in Puri. Only the demigods would see Him and worship Him as Nila Madhava. Among human beings, only Vishvavasu, a Śabara tribal, was able to see Him and serve Him.

When Indradyumna Maharaja came, Nila Madhava disappeared. Then there was a celestial voice saying, “Now I will be worshipped as Daru Brahma.” That Nila Madhava appeared as Daru Brahma.

After the first 50 years of Brahmā’s life, the Lord is worshipped as Lord Jagannath in Puri.

In Puri, even today, the descendants of Vishvavasu serve the Lord. They are called Dayitapatis. Dayita means “dear.” For example, we sing, “Rādhe Jaya Jaya Mādhava-Dayite.”

The Dayitapatis say, “Neither are we brāhmaṇas nor bhaktas, but we are part of the family of Lord Jagannath.”

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Why Lord Jagannath Comes Out During Rath Yatra

When the Lord’s Nava Kalevara takes place, the Dayitapatis perform śrāddha rituals, just as we follow śrāddha rituals.

From Lord Jagannath, we receive karuṇā, whereas from other forms of the Lord, we receive kṛpā.

For example, we go to Lord Krishna’s temple or Lord Rama’s temple and receive kṛpā. But Lord Jagannath personally comes out and shows karuṇā to everyone. Lord Chaitanya is also like that.

In Lord Rama’s pastimes again, we see that He met Guha, a tribal king. Saints and sages do not easily receive the mercy of the Lord’s lotus feet, but Lord Rama embraced Guha.

In the song Jaya Radhe Jaya Krishna Jaya Vrindavan, there is the phrase “Abhīra Nagarī.” Abhīra means tribal. The gopīs say that the tribal girls are so fortunate because they smear their bodies with the dust of Krishna’s feet. When Krishna would go to the forest to herd the cows, the sand would become red because of the kuṅkuma on Krishna’s feet. The tribal girls would apply that sand to their bodies, and their bodies would become red.

We see how tribals are connected to the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

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ISKCON Tribal Care and the Devotion of Tribal Communities

We have started ISKCON Tribal Care, and we see how interested they are in devotional life. There are many such examples.

Example 1

There were tribal children whom we brought to our āśrama and started teaching. We found that they quickly learned Śikṣāṣṭakam, Dāmodarāṣṭakam, Brahma-saṁhitā, and many verses from Bhagavad-gītā. They are God-gifted and have talent too. Also, they are not distracted by TV, smartphones, or social media.

Example 2

Once when I went to Assam, to a tribal area, I saw pictures of Pañca-tattva in many homes. I was surprised at how they had got these pictures. These tribals narrated an interesting story. They said, “We have been worshipping Them for the last 500 years.” They said that 500 years ago there was a person named Parthahajum. He was fed up with something and went to commit suicide in the Brahmaputra.

But he heard a voice asking him to go to Puri. The voice said that all his desires would be fulfilled in Puri. He had no money and no boat, so he decided to swim. While he was swimming, a local king saw him and asked him why he was risking his life in the river. After hearing his story, the king arranged for his visit to Puri.

When he came to Puri, it was the day of Rath Yatra. Lord Chaitanya and Lord Nityananda were performing saṅkīrtana. He became excited and began dancing. Everyone inquired, “Who is he?” Chaitanya Mahaprabhu said, “He is a devotee of Lord Nityananda.”

Lord Nityananda asked him to go, take a bath, and come back to Him. When he returned, Lord Nityananda gave him dīkṣā. He was empowered by the Lord. He introduced Pañca-tattva worship in the Hajum tribe of Assam.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja on 19th July 2026 at Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026 – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July)

Following are the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class given by HH Subhag Swami Maharaja at the 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal on 18 July 2026. Maharaja spoke on the verse SB 1.15.6

Yoga, Viyoga and Our Constitutional Position

One is called viyoga and the other is yoga. Chanting connects us to Krishna, which is yoga. Viyoga means feeling separation from Krishna.

We suffer because we forget Krishna. It is said, “Kṛṣṇa bhuli’ sei jīva…” Another place it is said, “Anādi bahirmukha jīva…” We are forgetting Krishna because we are trying to enjoy this material world.

We are taṭastha-śakti, i.e., the marginal energy of the Lord, situated between His external and internal energies. When we render service to Krishna, we are under His internal energy. When we forget Him, we come under bahiraṅga-śakti (the external energy).

Since we wanted to enjoy like Krishna, we have been sent to this material world. Thus, sometimes we become Brahmā, sometimes Indra, sometimes ghosts, animals, birds, trees, and so on.

When we are fortunate enough to attain a human birth, we get the opportunity to come out of the cycle of birth and death. Human life is very rare. We transmigrate through 8.4 million species, and by surrendering to Krishna, serving Him, and taking guidance from devotees, we become free from the clutches of māyā.

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Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam and Krishna – The Source of Everything

Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the essence of all Vedic literature. It begins with “janmādy asya yataḥ…”, where the Vedānta-sūtra begins its explanation. The opening verse concludes with “satyaṁ paraṁ dhīmahi”—meditating upon the Absolute Truth.

Krishna says in the Bhagavad-gītā, “ahaṁ sarvasya prabhavo”—”I am the source of everything.” Both the spiritual and material worlds emanate from Him. Those who are truly wise surrender unto Him.

The symptoms of those who serve Krishna are described in the verse “mac-cittā mad-gata-prāṇāḥ…”

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Lord Chaitanya and the Mood of Separation

To enjoy loving exchanges, Krishna expands Himself as Rādhā and Krishna, and later appears as Śrī Krishna Chaitanya: “Śrī-kṛṣṇa-caitanya rādhā-kṛṣṇa nahe anya.”

As Lord Chaitanya, He shows how Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī feels separation from Krishna, just as Arjuna also experienced separation from Krishna.

By accepting the mood of Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī, Lord Chaitanya teaches us the highest way of serving Krishna. Feeling separation from Krishna actually means remaining united with Him—externally there is separation, but internally there is union. The symptom of this stage is ecstasy.

Since we are fallen and under the influence of māyā, our ācāryas teach us how to gradually come to this elevated stage. Just as Mahāprabhu instructed the Six Goswāmīs, and the Goswāmīs instructed our ācāryas, we should follow in their footsteps.

When Krishna went to Mathurā, Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī felt intense separation. She prayed, “He Mathurānātha! He Dīna-dayāla!” “I cannot see You. When will I see You again? My heart is restless, not knowing what to do.”

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The Need for Qualification

We are currently at the lower stage of devotional service. At present, we cannot fully appreciate the mood of Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī and Lord Chaitanya Mahāprabhu.

Just as a child in kindergarten cannot understand a master’s degree, spiritual advancement happens gradually. A child progresses from kindergarten to primary school and then to higher levels. Similarly, one must become qualified before advancing in devotional life.

As we progress higher, many do not continue the journey. Advancement requires sincerity and qualification.

In our organization, there were around 10,000 disciples of Śrīla Prabhupāda. After fifty years, only a small percentage remained. Some devotees had left their bodies, but many others also did not remain steady in devotional service.

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Remaining Steady in Bhakti

Devotional service is like walking on the edge of a razor. One has to be very careful in bhakti.

Krishna says, “daivī hy eṣā guṇamayī mama māyā duratyayā.” Māyā tests us at every moment. As we advance in devotional life, the tests become more difficult.

But Krishna also assures us:

“mām eva ye prapadyante māyām etāṁ taranti te.”

Those who surrender unto Him cross beyond māyā.

It is not easy to come to devotional life. The scriptures say: “bahūnāṁ janmanām ante…”

To come to the conclusion that Krishna is everything is su-durlabha—very rare.

Again it is said: “manuṣyāṇāṁ sahasreṣu…”

Out of thousands of people, only one or two attain perfection.

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Spiritual Happiness and Transformation of Consciousness

It is also said, “brahma-bhūtaḥ prasannātmā…” Only in spiritual life can one experience real happiness. People outside spiritual life are generally full of anxiety.

Krishna is sat-cit-ānanda—eternal, full of knowledge, and full of bliss. You will notice a difference in your consciousness before practicing Krishna consciousness and after sincerely practicing Krishna consciousness.

The smile of a devotee is different from the smile of people absorbed in material life.

When you are hungry and you eat, you experience tuṣṭi (satisfaction) and puṣṭi (strength). As you continue eating, your hunger gradually disappears. Similarly, as you practice Krishna consciousness, you will notice a transformation in your consciousness. Earlier there may have been tension and anxiety. In spiritual life there may still be problems, but there is no anxiety. You live in Vaikuṇṭha, and in Vaikuṇṭha there is no kuṇṭha (anxiety).

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Temporary Happiness vs Eternal Happiness

Many people name their child Gopal and affectionately say, “This is my Gopal.” Such attachment keeps them in this material world, and they return again to their “Gopal.” But devotees aspire to go to the spiritual world to serve the real Gopal—Lord Krishna.

People become joyful on seeing their grandson or other family members. But we should understand that these relationships are temporary. Except for bhakti and Krishna, everything in this material world is temporary. Therefore, we should not become attached to temporary things.

People experience great sadness when their son, wife, husband, father, or other loved ones pass away. That is material misery. However, the separation experienced by devotees from Krishna is completely different. This is what Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī teach us—the highest love is love in separation.

Just as one must become qualified to pursue a PhD, similarly, one must become spiritually qualified to understand the mood of Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī.

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The Beginning of Devotional Life

We first begin with vaidhi-bhakti.

Associate with devotees.

Chant the Hare Krishna mahā-mantra.

Rise early in the morning, take bath, decorate the body with tilaka, attend maṅgala-ārati, and chant Hare Krishna.

Hear from senior devotees regularly. By hearing for a long time, the heart becomes purified.

As stated in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam: “naṣṭa-prāyeṣv abhadreṣu…”

Gradually, one becomes free from the modes of passion and ignorance and comes to the platform of goodness.

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Purification of the Heart

What are the symptoms of passion and ignorance? They are lust, greed, anger, pride, and envy. By practicing bhakti, these unwanted qualities gradually disappear.

The mode of goodness means prakāśa (illumination). Divine knowledge (divya-jñāna) awakens.

Krishna says: “bhaktyā mām abhijānāti.”

Through devotional service, we understand our eternal relationship with God. This process cleanses the dust accumulated within the heart.

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Freedom from Bodily Identification

We identify ourselves with temporary bodily designations: “I am Indian,” “I am fair,” “I am a doctor,” “I am a dog,” “I am a tiger.” All these are bodily designations.

When we become free from false ego, we rise above these temporary identities.

Material desires gradually disappear.

We engage our mind and senses in the service of Krishna.

We begin to understand, “I am not this body. I am an eternal part and parcel of Krishna. My only duty is to serve Him.”

This advancement happens gradually, stage by stage.

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The Nine Stages of Bhakti

The scriptures describe the gradual development of devotional service through nine stages:

1. Ādau Śraddhā – One develops initial faith and comes to ISKCON to hear Krishna-kathā.
2. Sādhu-saṅga – One associates with devotees.
3. Bhajana-kriyā – Under the guidance of the spiritual master, one rises early, engages in devotional practices until around 10 a.m., and spends the rest of the day rendering service assigned by the authorities. One feels as though one is no longer living in Kolkata but in Vaikuṇṭha.
4. Anartha-nivṛtti – One gradually becomes free from unwanted desires, such as eating outside food, watching movies, and other material habits. One also begins to follow the four regulative principles.
5. Niṣṭhā – Steadiness in devotional service.
6. Ruci – Developing genuine taste for hari-kathā and devotional practices.
7. Āsakti – Deep attachment to Krishna and devotional service. One cannot remain without practicing bhakti.
8. Bhāva – One naturally and spontaneously thinks of Krishna.
9. Prema – Pure love of Godhead, the ultimate goal of devotional life.

Arjuna is on the platform of bhāva-bhakti. We are presently below that stage and must gradually progress along the same path. Eventually, some devotees attain spontaneous attraction for Krishna.

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Questions & Answers with Maharaja

Before concluding his Srimad-Bhagavatam class, HH Subhag Swami Maharaja invited questions from the devotees and answered them to their satisfaction.

Q1. How can we quickly attain anartha-nivṛtti?

If we sincerely follow the instructions of the spiritual master, anartha-nivṛtti will come quickly. Otherwise, it may take many lifetimes.

We should honestly ask ourselves whether we still have attachment to sense gratification.

We have to develop a higher taste, as explained by Śrī Yāmunācārya.

For example, if we develop a taste for Krishna-prasāda, we naturally give up the bad habit of eating outside food.

The highest material pleasure is the attraction between a man and a woman. Yāmunācārya says that after experiencing the higher taste of devotional service, he spits at the very thought of such material enjoyment. We may not be able to say this now, but by sincerely following the process of bhakti, we can gradually come to that stage.

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Q2. Bhakti gives a higher taste, but why do devotees still fall down?

Just as not every student reaches the highest class, not everyone advances to higher stages of devotional life. One has to sincerely study and practice.

The two strongest attractions in this material world are wealth and the opposite sex.

Since we have been attached to these things for countless lifetimes, is it easy to give them up? No.

However, by associating with devotees, rendering service, and faithfully following the instructions of the spiritual master, we receive the spiritual strength to protect ourselves.

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Q3. How do we develop the strength to follow the instructions of the spiritual master?

Associate with devotees who are firmly fixed in spiritual life.

For example, waking up early every day may seem difficult. But when we see other devotees rising early and enthusiastically engaging in devotional service, we become inspired to do the same.

As the saying goes: “Jaise saṅga, vaise raṅga.”  We become influenced by the association we keep.

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Q4. How can we save ourselves from prayāsa (over-endeavour for material success or fame)?

Use common sense. Ask yourself, “How much can I realistically do?” Do whatever is practical according to your capacity.

For example, I should not think that I can immediately become Śrīla Prabhupāda. We should honestly assess our own level and proceed accordingly.

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Q5. What is the secret of your selfless service for the last 55 years? Please guide us so that we can also render selfless service.

The scriptures say: “yasya deve parā bhaktir yathā deve tathā gurau…”

One who has equal faith in Krishna and the spiritual master receives all the confidential truths of the scriptures.

If we deeply reflect on this verse, we will find the answer. The secret of selfless service is contained within this śloka.

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Q6. How can we completely surrender to Krishna and develop faith in Him when the mind is always fearful?

It is said: “Bhajo re mana…” If we take shelter of Krishna, we become fearless and free from lamentation.

By associating with God, we become happy and joyful.

The mind can become either our friend or our enemy—it depends on us.

Everyone’s mind is restless. Even Arjuna admitted this.

Krishna replied: “abhyāsena tu kaunteya vairāgyeṇa ca gṛhyate.”

Through constant practice and detachment, the mind can be controlled. We develop this higher taste by strictly following the instructions of the spiritual master.

We should make the mind our friend by training it to obey us. Otherwise, the mind becomes our enemy and drags us toward material life. When the mind tells us to do something wrong, we should firmly say, “No, I will not do it.”

By repeatedly practicing this, the mind gradually comes under control. Otherwise, impure thoughts enter the mind and eventually overpower us.

It is like a tug of war. If we become spiritually strong through chanting, hearing, association, and service, then whenever the mind proposes something improper, we will have the strength to say “No.” In this way, we gradually become victorious over the mind.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HH Subhag Swami Maharaja on 18th July 2026 at 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra – Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

Lecture Summary: The Glory of Rath Yātrā, Lord Caitanya’s Mission, and the Empowerment of the Gosvāmīs

Following are the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class given by HG Atul Krishna Prabhu at the 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra Pandal on 17 July 2026.

The class began with the devotional song Udilo Aruṇa Pūrab Bhāge by Śrīla Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura.

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1. The Appearance and Service of Rūpa and Sanātana Gosvāmīs

• Both Rūpa Gosvāmī and Sanātana Gosvāmī were born in Jessore, about four hours from Māyāpur. This place is now in Bangladesh. They grew up in East Bengal.
• Both are eternal associates of the Supreme Lord. In the spiritual world, Rūpa Gosvāmī is Rūpa Mañjarī, and Sanātana Gosvāmī is Lavaṅga Mañjarī.
• They appeared to serve Lord Caitanya. Interestingly, they never went to Navadvīpa to serve Him.
• Rūpa and Sanātana Gosvāmīs never visited Māyāpur. Among the Six Gosvāmīs of Vṛndāvana, only Śrīla Jīva Gosvāmī is said to have visited Māyāpur.
• They were empowered to write transcendental literature.
• They possessed profound knowledge of all the śāstras. In The Nectar of Devotion, Śrīla Prabhupāda lists many of the scriptures that were consulted while compiling the book.
• The Lord delights in glorifying His devotees.

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2. Navadvīpa During Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu’s Time

• During Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu’s time, Navadvīpa was the foremost city of scholars. People came there to acquire knowledge.
• Thousands of people bathed daily at the Ganges ghāṭas. It is said that nearly one hundred thousand people would bathe in the Ganges during Mahāprabhu’s time.
• Scriptures state that if one fasts on Gaura Pūrṇimā and bathes in the Ganges at Māyāpur, one attains Goloka along with one thousand of one’s ancestors.
• During Mahāprabhu’s time, life revolved around the Ganges.
• Navadvīpa had no wide roads, motorcycles, or trucks.
• Scholars from all over India came to Navadvīpa. Many materialistic scholars even composed poetry to criticize the Vaiṣṇavas.
• The capital of Bengal at that time was Malda. Visitors can still see the palace of Nawab Hussain Shah and the prison where Sanātana Gosvāmī was kept.

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3. Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu’s Pastimes and Instructions

• Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu first met Lakṣmīpriyā at the Ganges ghāṭa. They saw each other, recognized one another, and smiled. Lakṣmīpriyā worshipped Mahāprabhu on the banks of the Ganges.
• While residing in Navadvīpa, Lord Caitanya would perform ecstatic nighttime kīrtanas at Śrīvāsa Aṅgana. Only His confidential devotees were allowed to participate. During these kīrtanas, He manifested extraordinary ecstatic symptoms.
• In South India, Lord Caitanya instructed the Kūrma Brāhmaṇa:”Yāre dekha, tāre kaha ‘Kṛṣṇa’-upadeśa.”
• At Rāmakeli, He declared:”Pṛthivīte āche yata nagarādi grāma…”
• Lord Caitanya instructed Lord Nityānanda Prabhu to preach throughout Bengal.
• From this, we can understand how dear to Mahāprabhu are those devotees who preach in Bengal.

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4. The Glory of Rath Yātrā

• One of the most enjoyable experiences in a devotee’s life is participating in the Rath Yātrā festival.
• During the Kolkata Rath Yātrā procession, Lord Jagannātha’s chariot passes through the busy Dharamtala–Esplanade intersection. Traffic comes to a complete halt, and devotees joyfully dance before the Lord.
• Dancing during Rath Yātrā is especially pleasing to Lord Jagannātha.
• Rath Yātrā gives everyone the opportunity to participate in the saṅkīrtana movement that the Lord loves.
• On this special day, Lord Jagannātha comes out to freely bestow His darśana upon everyone.
• Even those unfamiliar with the festival become amazed when they see the Lord majestically seated upon His chariot. As the Lord of the universe, all roads and all cities belong to Him.
• Rath Yātrā is meant for the pleasure of the Lord.
• Prabhuji prayed to always have the opportunity to see Lord Jagannātha on His chariot every year.
• A devotee carrying a basket full of fruits and incense eagerly tried to offer them to Subhadrā Devī. Although security personnel attempted to stop him, his devotion prevailed.
• Everyone who participates in Rath Yātrā receives the Lord’s mercy. Those engaged in serving the festival receive even greater mercy.

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5. Empowered Devotees and the Lord’s Mission

• Arjuna was empowered to fulfill Lord Kṛṣṇa’s mission.
• Similarly, Rūpa and Sanātana Gosvāmīs were empowered to establish the philosophy of devotional service through their writings.
• After accepting sannyāsa, Lord Caitanya Mahāprabhu preached to exalted personalities such as Veṅkaṭa Bhaṭṭa, Rāmānanda Rāya, and Sārvabhauma Bhaṭṭācārya.
• At the same time, He instructed Rūpa and Sanātana Gosvāmīs to reveal the holy places of Vṛndāvana and compose transcendental literature.
• The Lord always desires to give credit to His devotees.

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6. The Mood of the Ācāryas

• When Śrīla Prabhupāda first met Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, he was immediately instructed to preach Kṛṣṇa consciousness in the Western countries.
• Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura constantly meditated on fulfilling Śrīla Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura’s vision that people from all over the world would come to Māyāpur and perform saṅkīrtana together.
• Śrīla Prabhupāda instructed His Holiness Jayapatākā Swami Mahārāja to make the Kolkata Rath Yātrā one of the biggest in the world.
• Mahārāja has dedicated himself to fulfilling this instruction and expanding Lord Caitanya’s mission worldwide.
• Even many of Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura’s highly qualified disciples could not accomplish what Śrīla Prabhupāda achieved.
• Śrīla Prabhupāda even sent his gṛhastha disciples to London to preach. Empowered by their spiritual master, they accomplished what seemed impossible.
• Many influential personalities, including George Harrison, embraced Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
• During that period, the Hare Kṛṣṇa mahā-mantra became so well known that it could even be heard on the radio.

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7. Conclusion

• The Lord empowers sincere devotees to accomplish extraordinary service.
• Inspired by the examples of Lord Caitanya, the Gosvāmīs, Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, Śrīla Prabhupāda, and H.H. Jayapatākā Swami Mahārāja, we should all work together to accomplish something glorious for Lord Jagannātha in Kolkata.

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These were some of the important points from the Srimad Bhagavatam Class by HG Atul Krishna Prabhu on 17th July 2026 at Rath Yatra Pandal.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)

55th Kolkata Rath Yatra 2026: Thousands Brave the Rain to Pull Lord Jagannath’s Chariot

The 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra was celebrated on 16th July 2026 with immense enthusiasm and devotion. The grand procession began from ISKCON Kolkata, Albert Road Temple, and culminated at the TAI Brigade Ground, where the deities will remain till Ulta Rath Yatra which is on 24th July.

Thousands of devotees from all walks of life participated in this magnificent Festival of Chariots. Throughout the route, devotees had lovingly set up small welcome stalls to receive Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi.

At numerous locations, delicious bhoga was offered to the Lord, arati was performed, and devotees welcomed the procession with folded hands and joyful cries of “Jai Jagannath!”

Chief Minister Inaugurates the Festival

The Chief Minister of West Bengal,  Suvendu Adhikari, who assumed office earlier this year, 2026, inaugurated the 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra for the first time.

With great reverence, he performed the arati of Lord Jagannath, swept the road with a golden broom according to the traditional Chhera Pahara ceremony, and also pulled the ropes of Lord Jagannath’s chariot, marking the auspicious beginning of the procession.

Rain Could Not Dampen the Devotees’ Spirit

Before the procession began, heavy rain lashed Kolkata. It almost appeared as if the rain-god himself was cleansing the entire route in preparation for the arrival of the Lord of the Universe—Lord Jagannath, accompanied by His elder brother Lord Baladeva and younger sister Subhadra Devi.

The rain, however, failed to diminish the enthusiasm of the devotees. Some stood under umbrellas, while others took shelter beneath flyovers and bridges. Yet everyone continued loudly chanting “Jai Jagannath!” and the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, eagerly waiting for the procession to begin.

Even amidst the downpour, devotees continued distributing transcendental literature, including Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Krishna Book, and Back to Godhead magazines, inviting everyone to reconnect with Krishna.

Delay Increased the Devotees’ Eagerness

The Rath Yatra was delayed by nearly three hours due to a technical issue with the wheel of Lord Baladeva’s chariot. Although everyone waited patiently, the delay only intensified the devotees’ eagerness. They were not restless out of frustration but because of their deep desire to pull the sacred ropes and accompany the Lord on His divine journey.

When the procession finally began at around 4:30 p.m., a loud roar of “Jai Jagannath!” filled the air. Devotees breathed a sigh of relief, thanking the Lord for granting them the opportunity to participate in His transcendental pastime.

A Festival that Unites the World

Srila Prabhupada often said that universal brotherhood is possible only when humanity comes under the shelter of the Universal Father, Lord Krishna. This truth becomes vividly visible during the Rath Yatra festival.

People from every caste, creed, religion, nationality, language, age group, and economic background came together as one family. Everyone danced, chanted, clapped, and joyfully marched behind the chariots, forgetting all material designations.

Several vibrant kirtan groups led ecstatic congregational chanting throughout the procession. Devotees danced with raised hands, filling the streets of Kolkata with spiritual joy and devotion.

The Majestic Chariots of the Lord

The procession was led by the chariot of Lord Baladeva, which also carried the deity of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada. The second chariot carried Subhadra Devi, while the grand chariot of Lord Jagannath followed behind.

The beautifully decorated chariots looked magnificent. Seeing thousands of devotees dancing and chanting before Them, it appeared as if the Lord Himself was pleased by the loving devotion of His children.

Everyone Wanted to Pull the Sacred Rope

As the chariots rolled forward, devotees eagerly rushed to touch and pull the ropes. Every devotee wanted even a few moments of service. Yet, while doing so, many lovingly made space for others, encouraging everyone to receive the Lord’s mercy.

I too got an opporunity to pull the ropes of the chariots.

This beautifully reflected the essence of Krishna consciousness—to recognize every living being as a beloved child of Krishna and help one another reconnect with Him.

Bhoga, Books and Prasadam Along the Route

Throughout the procession, countless devotees stood on both sides of the road to receive the Lord’s darshan. At various locations, bhoga was lovingly offered, arati was performed, and Jagannath prasadam was distributed to the public.

Devotees also enthusiastically distributed Bhagavad-gita As It Is, Krishna Book, and Back to Godhead magazines, encouraging people to take home transcendental knowledge. Many happily accepted these spiritual gifts, taking the first step on their journey in Krishna consciousness.

Several devotees had also arranged refreshment stalls along the route, serving drinking water, juice, and light refreshments to thousands of pilgrims who had been walking for hours.

Devotion Beyond All Obstacles

Many devotees had travelled from distant parts of Kolkata by bus, metro, and local trains. Some had even taken a week’s leave from work and travelled from different parts of India solely to participate in the complete Rath Yatra festival.

Although the weather presented many challenges and even washed away the beautiful rangolis traditionally prepared along the route, nothing could diminish the devotees’ enthusiasm. Their love for Lord Jagannath transformed every obstacle into another opportunity for devotional service.

The 55th Kolkata Rath Yatra of 2026 once again demonstrated that when Lord Jagannath comes out to bless the world, no obstacle—not even torrential rain—can stop His devotees from dancing, chanting, serving, and pulling His sacred chariot. It was a day filled with devotion, unity, and transcendental joy that will remain forever etched in the hearts of all who participated.

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55th Kolkata Rath Yātrā 2026 – Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Class Series

• Day 1 – HG Atul Krishna Prabhu (17 July 2026)

• Day 2 – HH Subhag Swami Maharaja (18th July 2026)

• Day 3 – HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaja (19th July 2026)

• Day 4 – HG Acharya Ratna Prabhu (20th July 2026)

• Day 5 – HG Vallabh Chaitanya Prabhu (21st July 2026)