Tag: Srila Prabhupada

Vyasa Puja offering to Srila Prabhupada on his 126th Appearance Day

This year we are celebrating 126th Vyasa Puja, birth anniversary, of Srila Prabhupada. On this auspcious occassion let us reflect on Srila Prabhupada’s great contribution in spreading Krishna Consciosuness all over the world.

Honestly speaking, I am not at all qualified to write vyasa puja offering to Srila Prabhupada on his 126th appearance day but I am trying to do so for my own purificaiton. It is said that just by glorifying a vaisnava a person who is extremely sinful also gets purified.

In my humble attempt of discussing the glories of Srila Prabhupada, if I committ any mistake then please do forgive me.

An incident from the life of Srila Prabhupada

Once there was disappearance day celebration of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. Since it was Friday so HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj asked devotees to prepare feast in the evening because he thought that in the evening more guests will come.

At around 11 am Srila Prabhupada inquired how the feast preparation is going. HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj informed to Prabhupada that since it was Friday so he decided that the feast will be prepared in the evening when more guests will come. Srila Prabhupada became angry like Lord Narasimhadeva. He immediately went to the kitchen.

Only one mataji was in the kitchen and she was cooking prasadam. Srila Prabhupada asked her why she is not preparing feast for his spiritual master. She said because HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj asked us to prepare it in the evening.  This made Prabhupada more angry.

Without wasting a moment, he himself started cooking the feast. Few devotees began assisting him. In an hour Srila Prabhupada was able to prepare ten course feast for sixty devotees. After the feast preparation, there was disappearance day celebration of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. There was arati, kirtan and lecture by Prabhupada.

An important lesson Prabhupada teaches

Once the program was over, devotees sat to relish the feast. Srila Prabhupada went to his room. One devotee carried feast prasadam in a silver plate to Prabhupada’s room. But to the surprise of all, the devotee quickly came out of the room with the silver plate.

Prabhupada did not even touch the feast. He did not eat anything. In fact, he felt very disturbed that his spiritual master’s disappearance day was not celebrated nicely. He felt deep pain in his heart. All the devotees who were relishing the feast, became numb. They all realized that how their carelessness and lack of spiritual understanding had upset Srila Prabhupada.

Narrating this incident, HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj writes in his book “Servant of the Servant”, “Our carefree, festive mood became broken as we realized the sober lesson that without pleasing guru and Krishna, there is no possibility of our own satisfaction.”

Spiritual Initiation not a formality

For Prabhupada initiation was not just a formality. He took each and every instruction of his spiritual master very seriously and did his best to fulfil it.  From his life we learn that we should not take spiritual life lightly or casually. No matter how much difficulty he was facing but he never compromised with the principles. 

Whatever means he had with that he tried his best to serve the instructions of his spiritual master. He hardly complained and whatever opportunity he got to serve Krishna he made best use of it. From the core of his heart, he always glorified his spiritual master and always wanted to please him.

His spiritual master had asked him to preach the message of Lord Chaitanya all over the world. Also, he had asked him to print books in English and distribute it to the English-speaking people.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura would say, “Indians influenced by western culture had started blindly following the western world and are neglecting Vedic culture. So, if people of the west become devotees, then Indians too will become devotees by following their footsteps and will start taking Krishna consciousness seriously.”

Prabhupada took this instruction to his heart and soul and dedicated his life in writing books in English and preaching the message of Lord Chaitanya all over the world.

Never gave any excuse

After taking sannyasa he faced many difficulties. Many times, he could not find a place to stay. He did not have sufficient money or means to have meals. But in spite of these challenges, he continued translating Srimad Bhagavatam in English and continued his preaching activities. He did not give any excuse for not writing or not preaching.

Before embarking to west on a preaching mission he had translated three volumes of Srimad Bhagavatam. In the west too especially in the first year of his stay he faced lots of difficulties, but he persevered.  His desire was to translate almost all Vedic literatures in English language so that the entire world is inundated with Krishna Consciousness.

All credit to spiritual master

Whatever he achieved, for that he gave all credit to his spiritual master. Prabhupada took no credit for himself.

He writes in Srimad Bhagavatam 1.13.29 purport, “Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, the great preacher of the principles of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, has stressed the importance of association with sādhus, pure devotees of the Lord. He said that even by a moment’s association with a pure devotee, one can achieve all perfection. We are not ashamed to admit that this fact was experienced in our practical life. Were we not favored by His Divine Grace Śrīmad Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Gosvāmī Mahārāja, by our first meeting for a few minutes only, it would have been impossible for us to accept this mighty task of describing Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam in English. Without seeing him at that opportune moment, we could have become a very great business magnate, but never would we have been able to walk the path of liberation and be engaged in the factual service of the Lord under instructions of His Divine Grace.”

A one-man army against Maya

Prabhupada was a one-man army. Material situations and circumstances did not demotivate him. He single- handedly waged war against maya, the illusory energy of Krishna. Maya’s writ ran in the west. But Prabhupada was not enamoured by the glitch and glamour of the west.

When he first time landed in the west, he saw skyrise buildings, people driving in fancy cars and everyone flaunting their wealth. Prabhupada was not impressed. He would often ask, “What is the use of all these if you do not know Krishna and have not heard about Lord Chaitanya?”

He saw these material amenities as a ploy of maya to bind the conditioned souls in this material world and make him suffer more and more.

When Prabhupada saw an affluent American proudly riding in a Cadillac, he saw him as an unfortunate soul imprisoned by maya in a dazzling iron box.  And when he saw young American boys and girls holding each other and dancing in clubs to the tune of rock music, he saw them as misguided souls who because of utter ignorance are swiftly gliding towards hell. When he saw someone flaunting wealth, he would ask him, “Will you carry it to your next life?”

Never compromised with Krishna Conscious philosophy

Many Indian spiritual leaders who had gone to west to spread Vedic Indian philosophy had got attracted by western culture and had assimilated it in their life. Many hesitated in introducing Vedic culture there for fear of losing followers and influence.

But Srila Prabhupada is the only Indian spiritual leader who had the courage and conviction to completely convince thousands of western people to give up materialistic way of life and adopt Vedic lifestyle. 

Many scholars who went to west during Prabhupada’s time preached how to use the principles of Bhagavad Gita to become a materially successful person. It is true that Bhagavad Gita is an encyclopedia of life and if one just follows few of its lessons then one can get material success too. But Prabhupada was not much interested in material success. Why? Because material success is temporary and the sensual gratification which any worldly success provides binds us to this material world and perpetuates suffering.

Also, achieving material success is not the ultimate conclusion of Bhagavad Gita. While concluding his teaching to Arjuna, Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita 18.65, “Always think of Me, become My devotee, worship Me and offer your homage unto Me. Thus you will come to Me without fail. I promise you this because you are My very dear friend.”  The Supreme Lord further says, “Give up everything and just take my shelter.”  Bhagavad Gita 18.66

Chosen by Krishna to give Krishna

Prabhupada came to this world to give Krishna. In fact, it won’t be wrong to say that seeing the plight of people, Krishna personally sent him to deliver unfortunate souls of this world.

Prabhupada’s unflinching faith in the instruction of his guru and the mercy of Krishna helped him to penetrate the heart of each and every one who met him. And each one was happy to embrace Krishna with open heart.

So, we see that in just few years the western world was flooded with Krishna Consciousness – thousands of people began chanting Hare Krishna Mahamantra, gave up all activities which is prohibited in Vedic scriptures and adopted Krishna Conscious lifestyle. Everyone started decorating their body with tilak, men started wearing dhoti-kurta and women saris. And everyone ate only Krishna prasadam.

Prabhupada did not just talk but he walked the talk. By his personal example, he taught us what it means to be a devotee of Krishna. And how if we just take shelter of Krishna, then we will be able to experience the highest pleasure which we are wrongly seeking in this world.  

If we look at any picture of Srila Prabhupada, we will find that he is always at peace and is always in control. This is because he is always under the shelter of Krishna, the Supreme Controller.

Srila Prabhupada infiltrated everyone’s heart and convinced all that other than Krishna, nothing can make us happy in this world.

It won’t be an exaggeration to say that it is because of Srila Prabhupada that millions of people in this world got the mercy of Krishna and millions of people are still getting attracted to Krishna Consciousness.

Begging mercy of Srila Prabhupada on his 126th Vyasa Puja

And it is because of Srila Prabhupada’s causeless mercy that I have got an opportunity to practice Krishna Consciousness.

This year, we are celebrating 126^th Vyasa Puja, birth anniversary, of Srila Prabhupada.

On this most auspicious day of the year, I beg Srila Prabhupada to give me shelter of his lotus feet and shower his mercy upon me.

Dear Srila Prabhupada, it is because of you that an unfortunate soul like me of this unfortunate world have got an opportunity to end all suffering of my life.  

In Śrī Caitanya-caritāmṛta, Madhya-līlā, Chapter Twenty Two, Text Thirty One, it is mentioned that wherever there is Krishna there is no darkness.

kṛṣṇa — sūrya-sama; māyā haya andhakāra
yāhāṅ kṛṣṇa, tāhāṅ nāhi māyāra adhikāra

“Kṛṣṇa is compared to sunshine, and māyā is compared to darkness. Wherever there is sunshine, there cannot be darkness. As soon as one takes to Kṛṣṇa consciousness, the darkness of illusion (the influence of the external energy) will immediately vanish.”

Dear Srila Prabhupada, you came to enlighten people like me so that I can go from darkness to light by taking shelter of Krishna. But because of my past conditionings, I am not able to fully surrender to Krishna.

Without pleasing Prabhupada, I cannot please Krishna

On the auspicious day of your 126th vyasa puja, dear Srila Prabhupada, I beg at your lotus feet to purify my heart of all anarthas, impurities, which keeps me in darkness and is keeping me away from your lotus feet.  Without pleasing you, I cannot please Krishna.

And I cannot please you without following your instructions completely. In spite of reading your books and hearing your lectures, I still get attracted to this illusory material world and carry a hope that somehow by my endeavour I will be able to become happy here without Krishna.

Many tried in the past and all have failed. I am too failing again and again. The mighty time is dragging me towards the graveyard. But because of my utter foolishness I still see a glimpse of hope in this material world. My condition is akin to a goat standing in queue in a slaughterhouse enjoying green grass oblivious to the fact that it is slowly inching towards the butcher’s knife.

You appeared in this world to save people like me from unending misery. Please shower your mercy upon me so that I give up all hope of enjoying in this material life and instead develop all attraction for Krishna and become his sincere devotee.

Your eternal insignificant servant

Purushottam Nitai Das

Srila Prabhupada meeting his guru, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura, for the first time

“Although initially reluctant but when Srila Prabhupada met his guru for the first time his life got completely transformed, he dedicated his life fully at the lotus feet of Lord Krishna and preached to millions of people the message of Krishna.”  

There are certain events which eventually turn out to be the turning point in the history of humanity. One such event occurred 100 years back in 1922, when Srila Prabhupada met his guru Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura in Kolkata.  That meeting fanned the flame of devotion which young Abhay had in his heart for Krishna. It helped him to define the mission and purpose of his life.

He now knew what he has to do in his life and took a vow like the famous kuru warrior Bhisma, that practicing, preaching and propagating Krishna Consciousness will be the ultimate goal of his life. He spearheaded a worldwide Krishna Conscious movement and established Iskcon in 1966, in New York. Today the world bows down to this great saintly personality and out of love and reverence calls him, Srila Prabhupada. Srila Prabhupada always thanked and glorified his guru for transforming his life.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura: A spiritual revolutionary leader

Abhay was born and brought up in Kolkata. Kolkata was a cosmopolitan city and for British it was an important city. The British East India Company established its base in Kolkata first and the city was the capital of British India from 1772 – 1911. However, Indians en masse were protesting against the British empire. The political movement gave birth to many prominent nationalistic leaders who were galvanizing the masses against the foreign subjugation.

During this time, few prominent personalities were also trying their best to revive India’s pristine spiritual culture and glory which people were not paying much attention to. Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura was one such spiritual leader who was working tirelessly to revive Gaudiya Vaishnavism, a movement started by Lord Chaitanya around 500 years back. Later his son, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura, played a key role in inspiring thousands of people to practice devotion to Krishna and Chaitanya.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura was a spiritual revolutionary leader and a fearless preacher. He practiced what he preached and preached what Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had asked to preach without any adulteration.

He was based in Mayapur, the birthplace of Lord Chaitanya and was having a preaching centre there. But to expand the movement of Lord Chaitanya, he knew he also need to establish a base out of Mayapur.

Gaudiya Math in Kolkata

He decided to have a preaching centre n Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), capital of West Bengal, because it was said during his time and is still said “What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow.” So, Srila Saraswati Thakura thought that if people of Kolkata become devotees of Krishna then rest of India (including present day Pakistan and Bangladesh) too will become devotees of Krishna eventually.

So, he established a centre in Kolkata in November 1918 at 1 Ultadanga Junction Road and named it Bhaktivinod Asan.  In September 1920, on day of Sri Krishna Janmastami, he installed small deities of Sri Gandharvika Giridhari and a tall deity of Sri Chaitanya at Ultadanga centre. And on that auspicious day, he also renamed the centre to Sri Gaudiya Math.

Gradually Gaudiya Math became one of the most important preaching centres of Gaudiya Vaisnavism. Srila Sarswati Thakura took several initiatives to spread the teachings of Lord Chaitanya from here.

It was at this place Abhay met Srila Saraswati Thakura and accepted him as his guru. And we can say that at this place only Srila Saraswati Thakura who was also called simha guru because of his courageous preaching sowed the seed of Iskcon in the heart of Abhay who later came to be known as Srila Prabhupada.

When Abhay (Srila Prabhupada) met his guru, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati, Thakura for the first time

Abhay was young, dynamic and educated. From his childhood days, he was a great devotee of Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani. He always gave credit to his father and mother for instilling love for Krishna in his heart when he was just a little child.

His father, Gour Mohan De, and mother, Rajani De, were always engaged in practicing loving devotion to Krishna and would inspire their children to do the same. Abhay’s heart was full of devotion for Krishna, so when he saw anyone befooling people in name of Krishna, he became disturbed.

Since people were not practicing bhakti as given in Vedic scriptures in letter and spirit so many charlatans had sprung up and usurped the position of spiritual leaders. Bereft of spiritual knowledge, people had become gullible, so were easily fooled by bogus spiritual leaders. Abhay had seen that many sadhus who would frequent his home hardly had any spiritual substance.

They would don the saffron robe to look like a sadhu, but their main business was to collect donation and eat nice food at the house of their guest. Although Abhay did not disrespect anyone but being a seeker of truth, he kept distance from these people. Like most of the youngsters of 1920s, Abhay also wanted to actively participate in India’s freedom movement. He was inspired by Gandhi.

Abhay’s friend

One day, his friend Narendranath Mullik asked Abhay to meet Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura who was preaching in Kolkata.  The year was 1922. Narendra had met him recently and was very much inspired. But young Abhay laughed at the proposal. He remembered meeting so called saffron robe wearing great sannyasis. He had seen their true character, so he simply refused.

But Narendra knew that this great personality is different, he is amazing. Abhay was his friend and he knew his spiritual inclination. So, he wanted Abhay to meet the saint.  He tried to convince him, “He is not like any other sannyasi you have met. He is different.” Still Abhay was reluctant.  But Narendra was persistent and finally Abhay could not say no to his friend.  But he went with a sceptical mind.

Abhay’s visits Gaudiya Math

When they reached Gaudiya Math, a devotee ushered them to the roof where Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura was speaking to some of his disciples and guests.  He was tall, slender and had fair complexion. He wore sannyasi robes and had Vaisnava tilaka on his forehead and other parts of his body. On his neck were Tulasi beads and brahminical thread adorned his torso.  He looked scholarly and grave.

Both Abhay and Narendra paid obeisance to this divine personality by respectfully bowing down in front of him. This is how one pays respect to a Vaisnava sannyasi. Born in a devotee family Abhay knew the Vaisnava etiquette.

Before they could rise after paying obeisances, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura who was conversing with his guests looked towards them and said, “You both are young, educated, so why don’t you preach the message of Lord Chaitanya all over the world?” Abhay could not believe what he heard.

Mostly he had heard sannyasis asking for money for their organisation or wanted to be invited at house for eating opulent food or asking people to become their disciples. But here he was asking him to become a worldwide preacher. Abhay did not accept anything at face value. He immediately countered, “But we Indians are under subjugation. Who will listen to us?  Who will appreciate our culture and philosophy? First, we should fight for our independence and get it.”

Krishna Conscious is emergency

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura said, “Krishna Conscious is emergency. It cannot wait for anything else. Rulers keep on coming and going, political situation of a country keeps on changing. But devotion to Krishna should never stop irrespective of any political or social turbulence.”

Abhay was flabbergasted by his boldness and his courage to speak the truth. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura had complete conviction that only Krishna consciousness can solve the problem of not just India but of whole world.

Abhay was drawn towards him. He sat there in rapt attention. Abhay was like a chataka bird who only drinks pure rainwater. The chaste bird is ready to die out of thirst but does not drink any water other than rainwater. Abhay too was not ready to hear any spiritual knowledge to quench his spiritual thirst. But he was desperately waiting to drink the uncontaminated transcendental knowledge coming out from the mouth of a pure devotee of Krishna.

Today, Krishna had answered his prayer. He was in front of such a great soul.

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura’s qualities

Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura spoke fluently in English and Bengali, quoted Sanskrit verses from the scriptures to give authenticity to his talk. He said that we do not belong to any particular nation or religion, but we are eternal spirit souls and our only relation is with Krishna which we have now forgotten and so suffering.

Once we understand our true spiritual identity and focus all our attention to re-establish our lost relation with Krishna then all the problems of our life will cease to exist. Our only business is to chant the names of Krishna and serve the mission of Krishna.

Abhay was delighted to hear the pure transcendental teachings. He saw that this person thinks nothing but Krishna and asks nothing but to chant the names of Krishna. He has no interest in anything material.  His door was open for anyone who was interested in practicing Krishna Consciousness.

Like other so-called sadhus he had seen earlier, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura was not coaxing people especially the rich ones for donation. He treated rich and poor, Hindus and non-Hindus, Indians and non-Indians alike. He saw everyone as the children of Krishna.

Abhay’s experience

It was getting dark. Abhay was listening to this great personality for last two hours and was relishing his words. Monks at Gaudiya Math gave him and his friend prasad. They both bowed down to the sage and came out of the building. It was dark outside, but Abhay’s heart was enlightened. In his heart he felt deep satisfaction and deep joy.

Although he met him for the first time but in his heart he knew that he has eternal relationship with him. He was eager to join his mission but he was married, had family responsibilities which he could not give up abruptly. But as the great guru had said that Krishna consciousness cannot wait for anything else so, he decided that from now the purpose and mission of his life will be to practice and preach Krishna consciousness.

What about Abhay’s involvement in India’s freedom movement?  In fact, this was the best way by which he could serve his motherland and the entire humanity.

Abhay was grateful to his friend for bringing him here. When Narendra asked him, “How was his experience?”

Abhay just said “wonderful.” He could not think of any other word to express his feelings. When the heart is overwhelmed with feelings of devotion, words fail to describe those emotions. 

Abhay fulfils the first instruction of his spiritual master

Whenever he got opportunity, he met Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura. He had already accepted him as his guru in the first meeting itself and he formerly took initiation from him in 1932. As a grihasta he did his best to serve his guru and Gaudiya Math.

He had deep desire to fulfil the first instruction of his guru – to spread Krishna Consciousness all over the world. With lots of struggle and difficulty, he finally succeeded. He established Iskcon in 1966 and travelled all over the world to preach pure devotion to Krishna.  His disciples and admirers started calling him as Srila Prabhupada.

Srila means one who has “beauty and power to understand the lila (pastimes) of Krishna.” Prabhupada has two meanings.

1. At whose feet (pada), many Prabhus (masters) bows down.
2. One who is always at the lotus feet (pada) of the Supreme Master (prabhu), Lord Krishna.

Today Iskcon has more than 600 temples all over the world in prominent cities. Iskcon organizes famous Jagannath Rath Yatra festival in many important cities of the world such as Washington DC, New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Rome, Zurich, Sydney, Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, Dhaka, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai. 

Srila Prabhupada’s contribution

Srila Prabhupada wrote several books and also translated Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, Chaitanya Charitamrita and other Vedic literatures. These books of Srila Prabhupada are now available in 89 languages. In last 55-56 years, Iskcon has distributed millions of these Vedic literatures including Bhagavad Gita all over the world. It has played an important role in the exponential growth of Hare Krishna movement across the globe.  

Lauding the contribution of Srila Prabhupada and Iskcon, Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi said, “Today there are hundreds of ISKCON temples in different countries around the world and is spreading the Indian culture. ISKCON has told the world that for India, faith means zeal, enthusiasm, to be in high spirits and faith in humanity.” https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-iskcon-for-teaching-true-meaning-of-faith-101630504980604.html

Although he attained great success but he always remembered his guru, always remained grateful to him. Srila Prabhupada gave all credit for the success of Krishna Consciousness movement to his guru, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura, his eternal spiritual father.

Many years later, reflecting on his first meeting with his guru, Srila Prabhupada said, “I accepted him as my spiritual master immediately. Not officially, but in my heart. I was thinking that I had met a very nice saintly person.”

Unlimited glories of Mayapur Dham

Devotees of Krishna continuously sing the glories of Mayapur dham. Unable to control their emotions, they dance in joy.  The stars smile seeing the dance of joy. The big trees and the small plants are curiously looking around enjoying the spectacle. The water in the nearby Ganges is resting peacefully. The cool breeze is singing shyly the glories of Mayapur Dham, occasionally touching the sacred river gently and immediately racing to catch up with the devotees who are quickly walking towards the temple. 

Men, women, children walk briskly lest they miss the momentous opportunity.  When clock calls 4:30 a.m., pujari blows the conchshell reverentially and opens the gigantic curtain hurriedly. Hundreds of devotees raise their arms in jubilation when Sri Sri Radha Madhav along with eight gopis and Panca Tattva appears to enjoy the celebration.  Their looks are from the spiritual sky, they are always full of smile, their stunning glance give devotees immense joy.

When Srila Prabhupada, Iskcon founder acharya, cried

The year was 1971, it was the time when Srila Prabhupada still walked on the planet earth. Mayapur is a special land because here is Lord Chaitanya’s sacred home.  Prabhupada had a mega plan – “Let us build a magnificent temple in Mayapur. Let people from all over the world congregate here to chant Krishna’s holy name.”  Muslim Sek brothers with great difficulty finally agreed to offer a piece of land. “Let us not waste even a single moment. Let us all work together to develop Chaitanya’s land. Let us make sure that the glories of Mayapur dham spread all over the world.” Prabhupada’s clarion call spread far and wide. Without any delay devotees marched towards Mayapur. To construct a beautiful world class spiritual center was their vision and to work hard in any situation and condition was their mission.

The initial years were the toughest years. Electricity was a rarity, clean water a luxury, cooking an austerity. Storms and rains often sullied the land. Snakes and scorpions enjoyed the muddy land. Prabhupada appreciated the monumental efforts. He called Bhavananda one night and suddenly began crying to Bhavananda’s surprise. “I know it is difficult for all you Western boys and girls…..I know you cannot even get prasadam. When I think that you cannot even get milk and that you have given up your opulent life to come here and you do not complain, I am very much indebted to all of you.” Srila Prabhupada Lilamrita Chapter 42: Developing Mayapur. But he continued elevating devotees spirit, “Mayapur is so wonderful. You can live on the air and water alone.”

The First Gaur Purnima Festival at Iskcon Mayapur                               

29 Feb, 1972 was a historic day, the first Gaur Purnima festival in the upcoming Iskcon center was celebrated on this auspicious day. Devotees from everywhere had assembled here to participate in this mega fest. The five day festival featured several programs.

Non – stop Hare Krishna song continued day and night, spiritual discourse touched the core of every soul,  devotees danced through the spiritual lanes and stopped at many sacred sites  – they embraced the neem tree under which Mahabrabhu appeared, meditated on the samadhi of Chand Kazi who got Mahaprabhu’s grace, danced in the courtyard of Srivasa Angan where Lord danced dusk to dawn.

Mayapur – the spiritual capital of the world

“Let Mayapur be the spiritual capital of the world,” Prabhupada  boldly declared. Let people far and wide across the ocean across the continents sing in chorus the glories of Chaitanya’s name. Let all land in this holy land to enjoy the bliss of the holy name. “Let us all install here life size deities of Panca tattva,” again Prabhupada demanded. Lest his dream be a wishful thinking devotees began looking for the artisans good enough, devoted enough to carve the deities in their heart.

The search began in 1999, the fortunate artisans of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, were the gifted souls.  Panca Tattva is about to manifest, the wind carried the news far and wide. With dedication the work began in 2002 and seeing devotees devotion the Lord agreed to manifest in the metal form. The eight metals – copper, brass, tin, lead, iron, gold, silver, steel- were mixed in right proportion so that each of the deity gets their specific complexion. Lord Chaitanya, of course, has golden complexion.

Panca Tattva appears in Mayapur

Devotees numbering thousands, singing the glories of Mayapur Dham, waited with bated breath for the arrival of the deities. At dawn their hopes soured high and at dusk their hopes did not die. They called the name of Gauranga in unison and Mahaprabhu finally arrived to join the celebration. 21st, 22nd and 23rd of Feb 2004 were the most auspicious days.  These 72 hours were the memorable moments.

No one spoke everyone sang. No one walked everyone danced. No one slept everyone wept when the 7 feet tall, magnificent deities each weighing about 3 tons were installed on the majestic altar. The guidelines of pancartrika literature guided Panca tattva installation – the sense organs and the limbs of the deities were invoked, prana pratista ceremony ceremoniously invoked Lord’s divine presence, sacred water with sacred substances relentlessly rained to bathe the Lord during maha – abhishek.

Anxiously everyone inquired, “Where is the Lord?” Suddenly the priest heard the pleas and flung open the gigantic curtain. “The Lord is here.” Everyone cried in chorus. Panca tattva had appeared. Their glance enhanced everyone’s emotion. Devotees failed to hide their devotion. It’s not an exaggeration, devotees danced in utter jubilation. Tears and Krishna’s song complimented the celebration.

Prophecy of Lord Nityananda comes true

Panca Tattva on the altar looks magnificent.  Lord Chaitanya blissfully stands in the middle, with long raised arms he invites anyone and everyone to chant Krishna’s name. Nityananda on his right, Gadadhara on his left welcomes all to the sankirtana land.  Advaita Acharya standing far right is full of compassion and Srivasa Thakura standing far left is paragon of devotion.

Nityananda is not an ordinary soul; he is the plenary expansion of the Supersoul. 500 years back he uttered the auspicious words, “eka adbhuta mandira ei haibe prakasa/gaurangera nitya-seva haibe vikasa.” – An astounding temple will appear and will engage the entire world in the eternal service of Lord Chaitanya. (Sri Navadvipa-Mahatmya, Parikrama Khanda, Chapter 4).

This prediction has now come true. Mayapur has one of the most beautiful temples of the world.  300 foot high upcoming Temple Of Vedic Planetarium (TOVP) which is going to be world’s one of the tallest temple is soon to manifest in Mayapur. TOVP will spread the glories of Mayapur Dham. The beautiful temple will further enhance the beauty of the beautiful land, glories of the glorious land.

Circumambulating the magical land

Millions of devotees from everywhere of different colour and different faith long to come to Mayapur to bathe in the dust of magical land. Navadvipa Mandala Parikrama has become a mega fair.   Celebrated during Gaur Purnima festival, more than 10000 devotees with much expectation come here to cleanse their hearts of all imperfections.

Dawn to dusk they dance through the sacred land, occasionally stop to hear the glories of that specific place and immediately march ahead to next destination.  Night they spend in makeshift tent houses. Throughout the day they walk for several kilometers, in total they cover around 80 km, they continuously sing “Hare Krishna” song accompanied with mridanga and kartal.

Longing to live in Chaitanya’s land

A person without vision cry confidently that stone and diamond are one and same. A person without any devotion cry in confusion, “What is so great about this ordinary land.” Mayapur is not just any land. The glories of Mayapur Dham are unlimited. The dust here has immense potency as it has drunk Chaitanya’s mercy. The wind having witnessed wonderful pastimes sings with joy the song of spiritual sky. Here every word becomes a song and every step a dance. Lord Chaitanya is not a simple soul, he is indeed the Supersoul.  His glories are sung in sacred scriptures. 

Nrsimha Purana declares, “The Supreme Personality of Godhead who in the Satya-Yuga appeared as a half-man, half-lion to cure a terrible disease that had ravaged the daityas, and who in the Treta-Yuga appeared as a person named Rama [Lord Ramachandra], the person who defeated the ten-headed Demon Ravana, and who in the Dvapara-Yuga removed the earth’s burden, and protected the Gopa [cowherd men] people of Vraja-pura, will appear again in the Kali-Yuga. His form will be golden, He will delight in chanting the Lord’s holy names, and His name will be Chaitanya.”

When will the day come when I too will dance in the dust of this magical land, sing Hare Krishna in this mystical land, long to live in Chaitany’s land!

Does God Exist? Srila Prabhupada, Iskcon founder acharya, says yes.

Does God exist? Most of us might have asked this question at some point of our life. I have come across many people who challenge the existence of God. They say, “If God is there then show me where he is?”

It is true that with our material senses we cannot see God. People think that just as we see the President or Prime Minister of a country, similarly, we should also be able to see God. Truth is that most of the people may not have even seen the President or Prime Minister, they mostly see them on television or read about them in newspapers or magazines.

But nevertheless, it is a fact that we do not see God with our material eyes just like we see other living beings. We do not know what he is doing now or where he is now. So, the question is genuine whether God exist or not?  Or is it that God has been made in the imagination of man?

There are many scholarly articles which gives many proof that God exist and there are also articles which proves that God does not exist. In this world we can counter almost everything just to prove our viewpoint.

I would like to share what were my reasons to believe in God. I arrived at this conclusion before reading any books on whether God exist or not.

Life originated from chemicals – True or False?

I remember the first time I read, most probably in Class VI, that life originated from chemicals and also got introduced to Darwin’s theory. Our science teacher explained in detail that how each cell of our body is made of chemicals and how the environment at the dawn of creation was suitable for the formation of life. And during that time there were multiple chemical reactions and so life originated. I am not going into all the scientific explanations which are given in the science books to prove that life came from chemicals because that is not the purpose of the article.

Although I was just a student but still, I was not able to accept this logic that “I am just made of chemicals.”  I had faith in my science book but “life came from chemicals” appeared unscientific and unreasonable. I was in utter confusion. After coming from school, I went to the terrace in the evening, and I looked into the sky. I saw the evening sun in the blue sky. Near my house was a huge tree. People would say that it is hundred years old. I saw birds chirping on the tree. Since it was evening so many birds were flying back to their nests which they had made in the tree. I saw people laughing and walking. Children running here and there and playing. Soon the stars and moon lit up the night sky.

How I concluded that God Does Exist

I was thinking that are these things happening only because of some chemical reactions? Men, women and children are talking, laughing, joking, walking, playing just because there are some chemical reactions in the body? If I observed any single part of our body, I found that it had remarkable features. For example, my eyes. I was seeing everything through my eyes. Can such eyes be made in any factory of this world? Answer is obvious.

And what about our emotions? When we see our mother, father, brother, sister, friends we feel so happy. Is it just because of chemicals?

If it is so, then why machines which are also made of material elements do not start having feelings or emotions. The more I thought, the more I got confused. By logic it was impossible to deny the existence of God or some higher power.

Next day when I went to school and when I asked this question to my science teacher, she said that “I am teaching you what is in the book, and I also do not completely believe what is in the book.” She further said that “I also believe in a higher power whom we call as God.” I was studying in a convent school, and they all believed in God. Later I found that even many of the great scientists accept that there is some higher power.

There are many things which exists, but we cannot see

One important question which always haunts a believer in God is that if God exists then why can’t we see him? And if we do not see him then why should we believe in him?

To answer this question let us first try to see if it is justified to put so much faith on our ability to see.

There are many things in this world which we cannot see with our eyes but still it exists.  Radio waves, electromagnetic waves, x rays cannot be seen with our naked eyes, but it exists. Our eyes have limitations. We can see things clearly only up to a certain distance. We may see stars which may be millions of light years away, but we do not see it exactly as they are. They appear just like a spot in the sky to us. 

Why to talk about how far our eyes can see? Something which is very close to our eyes, we cannot see that too. With our eyes we cannot see our eyelids, not even our lips or teeth. So, our eyes have many limitations. Now what we discussed was seeing material objects. Although many of these objects we cannot see with our eyes, but we can see them with mechanical instruments or devices.

But there is something which can never be seen, but it exists. And these are our emotions – feelings of joy and sorrow. Can you see it with your eyes or with any mechanical devices? Definitely not.

So, if we cannot see something with our eyes then it does not mean that it does not exist.

It implies that if we cannot see God with our eyes then it does not mean that God does not exist.

Remarkable features of the world

Now, pause for a moment, and try to closely observe the world, your surroundings. You will be struck with wonder to see the beautiful and extraordinary features of this world.  Many times, we may not notice it because we have a habit of taking things for granted. Everything in this world is perfectly managed and governed. However, there are many unscrupulous scholars who deny the existence of God and say that everything is happening in this world just by chance.

Few Examples

Let us see reflect on some of the remarkable phenomenon of the world.  

• All the necessities of our life like food grains, fruits, water, oxygen etc. we are provided to us by nature. These important items are must for our survival and are not manufactured in any man made industries.

• We inhale Oxygen and exhale CO2 which is a waste product.  Plants uses CO2 and through photosynthesis converts it into O2 making it available for us. Such a symbiotic factory wherein the waste product of humans becomes raw material of plants and waste of plant becomes raw material for us is a unique feature.

• Cow eats green grass which is abundantly available everywhere and converts it into white nutritious milk which nourishes the life of millions of people all over the world. Have we been able to build a machine which can transform raw grass into wholesome milk?

• A single tiny seed contains within it the entire banyan tree. And each banyan tree contains hundreds of seeds and each of the seeds again has the capability to produce a huge banyan tree. Have we been even remotely successful in creating any machine which can produce multiple machines on its own?

• Airplanes build by us occasionally crash or lose track or collide with other planes in the air. But the planets which are millions of times bigger than the airplanes floats like swabs of cotton and never crash or lose its trajectory or collide with other planets. 

• Energy emitted by sun/sec is so phenomenal that even if we switch on all the bulbs of the world then also all the bulbs together would not emit even a fraction of the energy which sun can emit.

World is governed by universal laws

Although the non-believers say that everything in this world is happening just by chance but the argument is ridiculous. Can all these natural phenomena happen by chance? I don’t think so.

It clearly shows that there is an intelligent brain behind this wonderful creation. And the universe is being governed by universal laws. If we just analyze ourselves, we will find that our body is a complicated machine and it runs perfectly well without our intervention.

Dr. Tony Buzon. British Psychologist, educator & author says, “The human brain is made of a trillion brain cell….and each one of these is more powerful and sophisticated than most computers around the planet today.”

Our digestive system is so well designed. We do not do anything to digest the food. We just enjoy the food. But our digestive system functions so well that the food gets converted into energy inside our body.

Scientists on Existence of God

This is why the greatest brains on this planet have humbly accepted that there is a God behind this wonderful creation.  

• If you think strongly enough, you will be forced by science to believe in God: Lord Kelvin

• There is a perfect brain behind all the natural physical laws: Albert Einstein

• This most beautiful system of the sun, planets, and comets could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent and powerful Being…This Being governs all things, not as the soul of the world, but as Lord over all, and on account of His dominion He is to be called Lord God, Universal Ruler: Newton

Vedic Scriptures on Existence of God

What about the Vedic scriptures?  If we turn the pages of our ancient Vedic scriptures, we find that it unequivocally says that “God Does Exist.” Vedas not only say that God exist, but it also informs us that everything which exists in this world is created by God.

In Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna whom the Vedic literatures describe as the Supreme Lord says,“I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me.” Bhagavad Gita 10.8.

In Bhagavad Gita 7.7, Lord Krishna says, “Everything rests upon Me, as pearls are strung on a thread.”

In Brahma Samhita also it is mentioned that Krishna is the Supreme God and he the cause of all the causes i.e. everything what we see comes from him. “Kṛṣṇa who is known as Govinda is the Supreme Godhead. He has an eternal blissful spiritual body. He is the origin of all. He has no other origin and He is the prime cause of all causes.” Brahma Samhita 5.1.

Śrī Īśopaniṣad, Mantra 1, says, īśāvāsyam idaḿ sarvaṁ/yat kiñca jagatyāṁ jagat. “Everything animate or inanimate that is within the universe is controlled and owned by the Lord.”

Srila Prabhupada, Iskcon founder, on Existence of God

In the purport of this verse, Srila Prabhupada, founder acharya of Iskcon, writes, “The Lord’s proprietorship over everything within the universe is confirmed in the Seventh Chapter of the Bhagavad-gītā (7.4–5), where parā and aparā prakṛti are discussed. The elements of nature – earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intelligence and ego – all belong to the Lord’s inferior, material energy (aparā prakṛti), whereas the living being, the organic energy, is His superior energy (parā prakṛti). Both of these prakṛtis, or energies, are emanations from the Lord, and ultimately He is the controller of everything that exists. There is nothing in the universe that does not belong to either the parā or the aparā prakṛti; therefore everything is the property of the Supreme Being.”

Srila Prabhupada dedicated his life in educating people all over the world that God exists. He would say that if people accept God and start living as per the direction of scriptures then they can live happily in this world.  He established Iskcon and opened temples all over the world. In the temples he established deity worship. He also wrote several books. All this he did so that you and me can get connected to God and establish relationship with God.

Earlier we had discussed that if God is there then why can’t we see him? We cannot see him with our material eyes because our eyes are impure. However, God appears in this world in his deity form. And when we see the deity with our eyes then we are actually seeing God. And once our senses become pure, we develop genuine love for God then we will not just be able to see God but we will be able to talk to him, sing with him, play with him and dance with him.

Conclusion

The whole material world consisting of innumerable planets, stars, the sun, the moon, the gigantic oceans, the mighty wind, the plants, trees, animals, reptiles, you and me are created by God. God Does Exist and he is the supreme cause of all causes. He is the creator, maintainer and destroyer of this world.

Why Bhagavad Gita is the best book in the entire world?

Bhagavad Gita is not just the oldest but also the best book of the world. The sublime message of Bhagavad Gita has been guiding humanity since ages. Bhagavad Gita was spoken by Lord Krishna to Arjuna. It was spoken around 5000 years ago just before the start of the Mahabharat war.  It was spoken at Jyotisar, Kurukshetra.

Just before fighting the most important battle of his life, Arjuna got completely bewildered. He wanted to run away from the battlefield. At that time Lord Krishna came to Arjuna’s rescue. After hearing Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna’s consciousness completely changed. He understood who he was and the purpose of his life.

He picked up his bow and arrow and decided to do his prescribed duty of fighting. But after hearing Gita, he was not fighting for himself but he was fighting for Krishna to establish dharma.  And since he was fighting for Krishna and Krishna was with him so Arjuna emerged victorious.  

Bhagavad Gita is the best book, so is called king of all knowledge

The Gita is called Raja Vidya – the king of all knowledge. If all the Vedic literatures are cows then Bhagavad – Gita is the milk of the cow i.e. it is the essence of all the Vedic literatures. Krishna is the milkman, Arjuna is the calf who drinks the milk, and the same milk has been made available to us in the written form by the great sage, Vyasa – Dev.

This beautiful literature has impacted the conscience of humankind for ages. The glories of the Gita stems from the fact that it transcends all the artificial boundaries of caste, creed, religions, race, nation, gender etc.

Bhagavad Gita is not just 5000 years old

Bhagavad – Gita is not just 5000 years old.  It has been in existence since the dawn of creation. Krishna informs Arjuna that “I instructed this imperishable science of yoga to the sun-god, Vivasvan, and Vivasvan instructed it to Manu, the father of mankind, and Manu in turn instructed it to Iksvaku” Bhagavad Gita. 4.1. Since the knowledge got lost by the influence of time so Krishna again spoke it to Arjuna for the benefit of all of us.

The Gita very vividly talks about Isavara (God), Jivatma (Soul), Kala (Time), Karma (actions) and Prakriti (Nature). It gives us spiritual intelligence to march towards the righteous path. The fundamental question of who am I, who is God, what is my relationship with Him and what is the purpose of this human life is very systematically, logically and pragmatically espoused.

Gita is for everyone

The Gita wasn’t spoken for Hindus or Indians. In fact, it is for the entire humanity. Great scholars throughout the ages have sought refuge in this transcendental literature when confronted with challenges. It has inspired the world fame leaders like Gandhi, Churchill, Einstein, Newton and several others.  

After reading Bhagavad Gita a Hindu will become a better Hindu, a Muslim a better Muslim, a Christian a better Christian and a Jew a better Jew. This is why Bhagavad Gita is the best spiritual book because it makes the world a better place to live.

Why “Bhagavad Gita As it Is” is the best translation & commentary on Bhagavad Gita book today?

Unfortunately many mundane academic – scholars presented their own interpretation of Bhagavad – gita, thus misleading the masses. The most important message of the Gita is to know Krishna and to return back to the spiritual world. Srila Prabhupada was very much concerned about the misinterpretation of Krishna’s original message. He therefore decided to translate the original Sanskrit text into English language and named the book as Bhagavad Gita As It Is.

The word “As It Is” stresses the fact that the book is an unadulterated translation of the original Sanskrit text. In his translation there is meaning of each Sanskrit word, translation of entire verse and purport with various scriptural references like Srimad – Bhagavatam, Brahma Samhita, Isopanisad, Puranas etc.

At present this is the largest selling translation of the Gita all over the world. The book has been further translated into more than 70 languages.  Bhagavad Gita As It Is has transformed the lives of millions of people all over the planet. This is why “Bhagavad Gita As it Is” is considered to be the best translation & commentary on Bhagavad Gita book today?

Gita teaches us to connect to Krishna

The main focus of the Gita is to make us understand that if we want to lead a happy life then we need to connect ourselves to Krishna. Krishna is not imposing his will but is trying to show us the right path. It’s like a father trying to persuade his unruly son to give up suicidal path and return back to his own home where he will get lots of love and care.

Krishna is too accommodative, every living being has different level of consciousness and so He suggests various paths through which one can perfect their life. He speaks about karma – yoga, jnana yoga, astanga yoga and bhakti yoga. Bhakti Yoga is the topmost but everyone may not be able to immediately practice Bhakti Yoga. So, Krishna also explains about Karma  Yoga, Jnana  Yoga and Astanga Yoga.

Conclusion of Bhagavad Gita

Arjuna was in utter confusion at the start of the war. But he got enlightened after hearing Gita.  Arjuna reveals his heart to Krishna, “My dear Krishna, O infallible one, my illusion is now gone. I have regained my memory by Your mercy. I am now firm and free from doubt and am prepared to act according to Your instructions.” Bhagavad Gita 18.73

Like Arjuna we also face many challenges in our life. And like Arjuna, if we understand the teachings of Bhagavad Gita, we will also get knowledge to decide what is best for us. Knowledge itself is not sufficient. After gaining knowledge, with determination we should act as per that knowledge.  We should say to Krishna, “I am prepared to act according to Your instructions”.

And once we act according to the instructions of Krishna as given in Bhagavad Gita then success is guaranteed.

The last verse of the Gita says, “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.” Bhagavad Gita 18.78

Like Arjuna if we befriend Krishna and always follow the instructions of Krishna then we will attain the same destiny as of Arjuna. It means that we will always be victorious in our life.

Once we take shelter of Krishna, Krishna takes charge of our life, and he protects us in all situations and circumstances. Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of godhead says, “Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.” Bhagavad Gita 18.66

Bhagavad Gita is the best among all the books of the world because it teaches us how to happily live by taking shelter of Krishna.

ISKCON & A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada’s contribution in spreading Jagannath worship & Rath Yatra all over the world

Srila Prabhupada, the founder acharya of Iskcon, has played a significant role in spreading Jagannath Rath Yatra and Jagannath worship all over the world. Let us explore some interesting facts about the Rath Yatra festival and how Prabhupada helped to spread it across the globe.

Friar Odoric was a Franciscan missionary. In early 14th century he visited India. In India, he saw a huge deity of Lord Jagannath on an enormous chariot in the streets of Puri. Thousands of people were pulling the chariot with a rope. He carried the story of Jagannath deity riding on a huge chariot to Europe. The story spread throughout Europe. By 19th century Europeans started using the word juggernaut, although they meant Jagannath.  Any enormous object which had crushing capability was called juggernaut.

Little did the Europeans knew that the same massive chariots whose story had fascinated them would one day ride through the streets of Europe. Name any major cities of the world and you will see it celebrating Rath Yatra festival. The festival is celebrated in the same way as it is traditionally celebrated in Puri, India.  The massive chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva and Subhadra Devi travels majestically and is pulled by hundreds of people.

Hundreds of men and women watch in amazement and even participate in pulling the ropes. Men and women, young and old, rich and poor, Hindus and non-Hindus, black and white all participate. Caste, colour, race, gender discrimination ceases to exist when everyone come together to pull the chariot of Jagannath.

Srila Prabhupada’s love for Jagannath

A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, founder acharya of Iskcon, established the worship of Jagannath outside India in a prominent way and made Rath Yatra global. He was fondly called “Srila Prabhupada.” He would say that Jagannath is Lord (nath) of the Universe (jagat), so why not give everyone, irrespective of caste, creed, religion and nationality, the opportunity to worship Jagannath.  Srila Prabhupada was one of the most influential spiritual leaders of India post- independence. He played a crucial role in spreading Vaisnavism throughout the world. And he has made Jagannath Rath Yatra hugely popular.  

Prabhupada was attracted to Jagannath since his childhood days. He was born in Kolkata in 1896. His parents, Gour Mohan De and Rajani De, gave him the name Abhay.  Abhay means one who is fearless having taken shelter of the Lord.   As a child he was fascinated by Rath Yatra festival. He always wanted to visit Puri to take darshan of Jagannath and participate in Rath Yatra.  He would constantly look the train timetable to find out the trains for Puri. Especially he wanted to go during the Rath Yatra period and wanted to pull Jagannath’s chariot. But for little Abhay, it was not possible to go to Puri alone.

So, once he thought why not have my own Rath Yatra at home. His father bought him a small cart. He beautifully decorated it and invited his sisters and neighbourhood kids to join him in the Rath Yatra procession.  Small deities of Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra was placed on the chariot. Seeing the enthusiasm of Abhay, his parents and neighbourhood elders too decided to participate. His mother cooked nice food items to offer to Lord. And on the Rath Yatra day little Abhay with his little friends organized a successful Rath Yatra. Everyone enjoyed the festival.

Prabhupada meets his spiritual master

When Abhay was a young man. He met Srila Bhaktisidhanta Saraswati Thakura, a renowned Vaisnav saint, scholar and founder of Gaudiya Math. The first meeting itself transformed Abhya’s life.   

“You are an English educated young man. Why don’t you use your intellect and talent in enlightening the western world with the teachings of Krishna and Chaitanya? Indians are blindly imitating the west. They are forgetting their culture. So, if people in the west starts appreciating Indian wisdom and culture then the Indians will start valuing them too.”

These words of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura deeply touched Abhay.  He decided to follow the sagely advice and requested Srila Bhaktisidhanta Saraswati Thakura to accept him his disciple. Srila Bhaktisidhanta Saraswati Thakura accepted him and initiated him in 1932 in Gaudiya-Vaishnava tradition.

Preaching in the western world

Prabhupada was working hard to fulfil the order of his guru. He took sannyasa, renounced order of life, in 1959 to dedicate his life completely in preaching Krishna Consciousness. Prabhupada wrote several books and tried his best to preach. He was also looking for an opportunity to go to west.   Finally, he got the chance in 1965 to go to USA. Although he was 69 years old by that time but still he had burning desire to carry the message of Lord Krishna and Lord Chaitanya to the western world.

During his initial months in USA, he struggled hard to preach. But he did not give up. Slowly young American boys and girls started getting influenced by his preaching. His sincerity, simplicity and deep devotion to Krishna started attracting people. And slowly many started taking up devotion to Krishna. They became disciples of Prabhupada. Prabhupada engaged them in chanting Hare Krishna Mahamantra and also taught them how to worship the deity of Radha and Krishna.

In 1967 in San Francisco, Jagannath deity miraculously came to Prabhupada. And Prabhupada decided to establish the worship of Jagannath in Iskcon and planned to celebrate Rath yatra festival in different countries of the world.

Lord Jagannath appears in San Francisco

One day Malati, a female disciple of Srila Prabhupada, brought a unique looking wooden doll. She placed it in front of Srila Prabhupada. As soon as Prabhupada saw the wooden doll, he immediately folded his hands in reverence and paid obeisances. All the assembled students were amazed. What is so special about this doll? They wanted to know. They looked at Srila Prabhupada. Prabhupada had a big smile on his face. He looked so happy. It seemed that he was meeting his age-old friend after a long time. Prabhupada looked towards his young curious American disciples and said, “This is Jagannath, the Lord of the Universe. He looks different but he is Krishna.”  

His American students had just begun learning about the Indian Vedic culture. They had started chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra on beads. They had begun donning Indian dress. Men would wear dhoti and kurta and women saris. Just like the devotees of Krishna in India, they would apply sandalwood tilak on their body. On the forehead they would put tilak in the shape of Krishna’s lotus feet and make a Tulasi leaf from the paste on the upper part of their nose touching Krishna’s feet. They looked perfect Vaishnavs. But still they had to know a lot about Indian culture, Indian tradition and the way the Indians worshipped the deities.

Devotees excited to know about Jagannath

Srila Prabhupada was their friend, philosopher, and guide. He would always encourage his disciples to go deep in spiritual life.  He thanked Malati for bringing Jagannath. She had never thought that this wooden doll would please her spiritual master to such an extent.  Everyone except Srila Prabhupada had heard the name “Jagannath” for the first time. In fact, majority of the Americans would not have known about Jagannath.  Srila Prabhupada explained them in detail about the worship of Jagannath in India especially in Puri. He spoke about the grand rath yatra festival at Puri. When he said that thousands of people irrespective of caste, creed and gender come to pull the ropes of the chariot, everyone was mesmerised.  

Srila Prabhupada explained them that Jagannath is none other than Krishna. He is worshipped along with his brother, Balarama, and little sister, Subhadra. Malati excitedly said that two similar looking dolls were also there in the shop.

“From where did you get this?” Prabhupada asked.

“From an import store at Cost Plus,” Malati said.

“Why don’t you get the other two dolls as well – of Balarama and Subhadra.” Prabhupada asked.  

Installing the deity of Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra in San Francisco

She hurried back to the store with her husband, Syamasundara, and brought Balarama and Subhadra.  Prabhupada was eagerly waiting for them. As soon as Balarama and Subhadra arrived, Prabhupada properly placed them – Jagannath to the right, little Subhadra in the centre and Balarama to the left. Srila Prabhupada loved Jagannath.  Seeing him, he got a desire to start the worship of Jagannath in the western country in a grand way.   

He wanted to spread the worship of Jagannath all over the world.  Lord Jagannath had appeared in San Francisco by his own will.  He wanted to establish the worship of Jagannath in San Francisco. For this to happen, a big wooden deity of Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra had to be built.  He expressed his desire. His disciples were always eager to fulfil their guru’s wish. Syamasundara knew carpentry. He took the responsibility of carving the deities from the wood.

Srila Prabhupada explained him the shape, size, width and height of the deities. He took a pen and paper and wrote down all the details. He further said, “Jagannath should be painted black, Baladeva should be white, and Subhadra should be yellow.” Syamasundara began his work.

Jagannath deity was installed on Gaura Purnima

March 26 was Gaura Purnima, the appearance day of Lord Chaitanya. Prabhupada decided to install the deity of Lord Jagannath on that auspicious day. Lord Chaitanya had played a crucial role in spreading sankirtana – devotion to Krishna by congregational chanting of Hare Krishna Mahamantra – in India in 15^th century.  

After taking sannyasa, renounced order of life, Lord Chaitanya lived in Puri near the famous Jagannath temple. He visited the temple daily for darshan and stood for hours in front of Jagannath.  Srila Prabhupada had gone to west to spread the teachings of Lord Chaitanya. So, the appearance day of Lord Chaitanya was the perfect day to install the deity of Lord Jagannath.   A beautiful wooden altar from the redwood tree was built for the deities.

The deity installation day

On the installation day, which was also the Gaur Purnima day, Prabhupada said that entire day they all will read about Lord Chaitanya and his teachings, chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra and sing kirtana.  Everybody will fast the entire day. The much-awaited installation ceremony will be in the evening followed by big feast.  Throughout the day devotees absorbed themselves in chanting the names of Krishna and hearing the pastimes of Chaitanya. Some of the devotees were also busy making arrangements for the evening.  In the evening the temple room was full. Many people from the neighbourhood also came to see the installation ceremony.

Newly carved wooden deities of Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra were placed on the beautifully decorated wooden altar. A yellow canopy gave the altar a majestic look.  Prabhupada led the kirtan and the disciples and assembled guests began offering lamp to the three deities. Blue, red and yellow lights on the altar glittered when devotees were offering the lamp. The deities looked beautiful and colourful. It was a festive atmosphere. Lamp offering was followed by big feast. 

The installation ceremony was simple but devotional. Everyone present felt attracted to Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra.  Prabhupada taught them the prayer which they should chant for Jagannath – jagannathaḥ svami nayana-patha-gami bhavatu me, O Lord of the Universe, please be visible to me. Prabhupada said that Jagannath has chosen to appear in San Francisco, so, let us call San Francisco as “New Jagannath Puri.”

Jagannath goes to Golden Gate Park

Devotees were happy. Next day some of the devotees took the deity of Jagannath from the altar to the nearby Golden Gate Park. They would often go out to do kirtan. So, they decided to even take Jagannath with them.  Hundreds of Americans were excited to see Jagannath in the park. Devotees chanted the Hare Krishna Mahamantra and danced around Jagannath for several hours.

Meanwhile when Prabhupada saw the deity missing from the altar he was upset. Jagannath deity does not leave the altar except on one especially day. And that is called Rath Yatra.  He said, “If you all really want to take the deities outside then organize a Rath Yatra festival.” His young American disciples got excited to hear this. Prabhupada said, “Let us have Rath Yatra in San Francisco.” Everyone agreed.

First Rath Yatra celebration in San Francisco on 9^th July 1967

Prabhupada wanted to celebrate Rath Yatra festival the way it is celebrated in Jagannath Puri. Three different chariots for the three deities and devotees pulling the chariots with ropes. But he knew that it was not possible to arrange such big chariots in America. His disciples were not trained to build chariots. And to get it in a foreign land where Rath Yatra would be celebrated for the first time was not possible.  

So, it was decided that a flatbed truck would be converted into a chariot. And in future devotees can plan for big chariots. They choose a yellow flatbed truck and decorated it in a way so that it looks like a chariot. Devotees made five-foot columns on the truck and a colourful cloth canopy. On the day of Rath Yatra they took the deities from the altar and placed it on the chariot under the canopy. Jagannath faced towards the right side of the truck, Baladeva towards the left and Subhadra towards the rear.

First Jagannath Rath year begins

The three deities rode on the streets of San Francisco on the yellow chariot. People on the road were amazed and excited to see this. The chariot moved slowly. Devotees sang the Hare Krishna Mahamantra and danced in front of Lord Jagannath. Hundreds of people participated in the procession.  Police tried to finish the procession quickly. But so many people were in front of the chariot that they could not do anything. In fact, they too liked the devotional spirit.

Meanwhile devotees were distributing prasadam – oranges, apples and bananas were being given. From the chariot they were throwing flowers on the crowds, and people loved it. They were also releasing dozens of Rath Yatra ballons. It was a festive atmosphere. Devotees enjoyed their first Rath Yatra festival. Those who participated in the procession too loved it. Prabhupada was immensely pleased and satisfied. He had taken an arduous journey in his old age to the west to spread Krishna Consciousness. And it seemed he was succeeding.

Jagannath worship and Rath Yatra festival has spread all over the world

Today Jagannath worship and Rath Yatra celebration takes place in almost all the major countries of the world like USA, UK, Canada, Russia, Germany South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia and even in Islamic countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh.  One can see massive Rath Yatra chariots rolling through the streets of San Francisco, New York, Washington, London, Berlin, Moscow, Johannesburg, Melbourne, Kuala Lumpur, Dhaka.  In India Iskcon organizes Rath Yatra in all the major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Guwahati, Mayapur, Vrindavan and many more.

Iskcon organizes world’s first virtual Rath Yatra during Covid

During Covid Pandemic it was not possible to celebrate Rath Yatra on streets. So, Iskcon organized world’s first digital Rath Yatra which covered six continents. The festival was named as “Mercy on Wheels.” There were 108 rathas (chariots) and thousands of people from all over the world participated virtually.

References:

• Srīla Prabhupada-lilamrta Volume 1, Chapter TWENTY-FOUR, New Jagannātha Purī

Link: https://vedabase.io/en/library/spl/1/24/

• Srīla Prabhupada-lilamrta Volume 1, CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX, Swamiji’s Departure

Link: https://vedabase.io/en/library/spl/1/26/

• Definition of juggernaut: Merriam Webster

Link: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/juggernaut

• ISKCON plans world’s first virtual Rath Yatra across 6 continents amid Covid-19 pandemic: Hindustan Times

Link: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/iskcon-plans-world-s-first-virtual-rath-yatra-across-six-continents-during-covid-19-pandemic/story-FC3iY13U9xUpgxsdbOUEfO.html

Essence of Bhagavad Gita according to Srila Prabhupada, the founder acharya of Iskcon

Srila Prabhupada, the founder acharya of Iskcon, writes that Bhagavad Gita 11.55 is the essence of Bhagavad Gita.

Lord Krishna says in Bhagavad Gita 11.55, “My dear Arjuna, he who engages in My pure devotional service, free from the contaminations of fruitive activities and mental speculation, he who works for Me, who makes Me the supreme goal of his life, and who is friendly to every living being – he certainly comes to Me.”

Here Krishna has given us a process following which we can attain him. In fact, Krishna is giving a guarantee that we will go back to him. So, Srila Prabhupada calls this verse the essence of Bhagavad Gita.

Let us discuss how we can apply this formula given by Krishna in our personal life and attain the ultimate goal of our life.

All work should be done in relationship with Krishna

We all have to work for living but we should not be attached to the results of our work. We should know that Krishna is the proprietor of everything. It implies that Krishna is the enjoyer of the fruits of our work. So, all the results of our work should be offered to Krishna. Srila Prabhupada explains, “No work should be done by any man except in relationship to Kṛṣṇa. This is called kṛṣṇa-karma. One may be engaged in various activities, but one should not be attached to the result of his work; the result should be done only for Him.” Bhagavad Gita 11.55 purport.

Whatever activities we do we should do it in relationship with Krishna. Doing activities in relationship with Krishna also means we should do only those activities which is authorized in the scriptures. Any activity which is against the sastric injunctions should be given up. So, we should not choose those occupation to earn money which break the four regulative principles like no meat eating, no gambling, no intoxication and no illicit sex.

As a practicing devotee, you and I should do work for the pleasure of Krishna. We should not be attached to the fruits of our work. And we have to make sure that we do not do anything which is not authorized in the scriptures.

Earned money should be used to serve Krishna

Most of the devotees are householders, grihastas. A grihasta has to work outside and earn money. But we should be careful that we do not use the earned money for personal enjoyment. Money belongs to Krishna, so it should be used to serve Krishna.  Krishna should always be the centre of our life.

Our house is Krishna’s house, so we should make it a temple of Lord Krishna

The house you and I live in does not belong to us. Krishna owns it and has presently allowed you and me to live there. Since the house belongs to Krishna, so it should be converted into a temple of Lord Krishna. We should have a nice and big altar of Lord Krishna in the house, which I have currently. We should worship the Lord daily with love and devotion as per the instructions of Srila Prabhupada. Altar should be clean. The altar and the Lord should be decorated beautifully with colourful flowers. At home we should cook nice food items for the Lord and should offer him with love and devotion.

Daily we should chant Krishna’s holy names and perform kirtan at home.  Also we should make sure that our family members become devotees of Lord Krishna. And we should do our best to engage them in devotional life.

Visit the temple regularly, serve the deities and the devotees

It is also important that we should regularly visit the nearby Iskcon temples and do service there. Based on our capacity, we should also donate money to the temple which will help the temple in serving the Lord and in spreading Krishna Consciousness.

Attaining Krishna should be the only and ultimate goal of our life

Krishna should be our only worshipable Lord and our only goal should be to attain love of Krishna and return to the spiritual abode of Lord Krishna. To attain Krishna, we should engage in the nine process of devotional life especially hearing and chanting the Lord’s names. Srila Prabhupada has given us a process by which we can constantly engage in hearing and chanting. For this, it is important that we regularly associate with the devotees of Krishna.

However, we may come across those people also who are not devotees of Krishna especially at our workplace or in our neighbourhood. But we should make sure that we have only working relationship with them not heart to heart relationship. We should not waste our time in discussing mundane topics with them like of politics, sports or movies. But instead, we should have a desire to always associate with the devotees of Krishna. And in that association, we should discuss Krishna Conscious subject matters and help each other in advancing in spiritual life.  

One important aspect is that we should strictly avoid those who are against Krishna Consciousness like mayavadis, agnostics and those who speak ill of Krishna. Their company will spoil our consciousness.

Serving the humanity by spreading Krishna Consciousness

I should do my best to share Krishna with others. Making people Krishna Conscious is the greatest welfare activity.  All are suffering in this world because they have forgotten Krishna. All the problems like economic problem, social problem, political problem is there because people do not live as per the rules and regulations of Vedic scriptures. Once a person becomes a devotee of Krishna and start living Krishna Conscious life then all the problems will disappear.

Srila Prabhupada explains, “A Kṛṣṇa conscious person knows that if a man is suffering it is due to his forgetfulness of his eternal relationship with Kṛṣṇa. Therefore, the highest benefit one can render to human society is relieving one’s neighbor from all material problems. In such a way, a pure devotee is engaged in the service of the Lord.” Bhagavad Gita 11.55 purport

Following the footsteps and guidelines of Srila Prabhupada we should preach the message of Krishna. This is the best way to serve the society and the humanity. This will bring peace and bliss everywhere.  

Conclusion

The ultimate essence of Bhagavad Gita is to take complete shelter of Krishna. The Supreme Personality of Godhead, Krishna, appeared in this world to give this message to us. He has given us a process in Bhagavad Gita 11.55 by which we can purify our heart and return back to Krishna. If we engage in the service of Krishna as prescribed by Krishna without any motive and enjoying mentality then we will attain complete perfection.

In conclusion we can say, “the essence of Bhagavad Gita is to know Krishna, to serve Krishna and to return back to Krishna.”

Srila Prabhupada 125th Birth Anniversary Coin released by Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi

The Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi released a special commemorative coin of Rs 125 on the occasion of 125th Birth Anniversary of Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada who is loving called as Srila Prabhupada.  

The coin was released via video conferencing on 1st September 2021 at 4:30 pm IST. Devotees from different parts of the world joined the ceremony via video conferencing. The program was also telecasted live on many India News Channels.

Program began with Mangalacaran by students of Iskcon Gurukul, Mayapur

The program started with the recitation of prayers by the students of Iskcon Gurukul, Mayapur. They recited Mangalacaran Prayers.

Minister of Culture, Shri G Kishan Reddy glorifies Srila Prabhupada

After Mangalacaran Prayers by Iskcon Gurukul students, the program coordinator requested, Shri G Kishan Reddy who is a Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region of India to say few words on this auspicious occasion.

The honourable minister said:

“Srila Prabhupada’s life is of dedication, devotion and courage. He promoted Krishna all over the world. He promoted India’s culture, knowledge and tradition all over the world. Prabhupada gave practical solution to all the problem. And he preached the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world is one family. Due to Srila Prabhupada one can see big number of people of different nations wearing dhoti, kurta and sari. We see them chanting Hare Krishna and speaking on puranas.

Srila Prabhupada brought cultural revolution. He is the ambassador of Indian culture and philosophy. Today Iskcon is the greatest bridge between west and east. Srila Prabhupada several times stressed the need to revive India’s spiritual cultural. Iskcon has been in the forefront in the service of downtrodden. During Covid they were cooking 4000 meals daily for people. Srila Prabhupada introduced Jagannath Rath Yatra in western world, this is one of his great achievements.

Under Prime Minister Modi India has grown. Ayurveda has become an alternative medicine. Today, India is being recognised in the world for her spirituality.

I welcome all for this event.

I thank Prime Minster Modi for releasing coin on the 125th birth anniversary of Srila Prabhupada.”

HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj speaks on the occasion of release of coin of Srila Prabhupada on his 125th Birth Anniversary

After the speech of the Minister, the program coordinator requested HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, a senior disciple of Srila Prabhupada, and Iskcon GBC to speak.

HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj said:

“Respected Prime Minster Mr Narendra Modi, Ministry of culture, I am grateful for your time. As you know this year is Srila Prabhupada’s 125^th birth anniversary. Around 500 years ago, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had predicted that in all corners of the world Hare Krishna Mahamantra will be chanted.

Prabhupada was born in 1896 in Kolkata. In 1922, he met a renowned Vaisnava saint and scholar Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura who became his spiritual master. At that time, he was with Gandhiji’s movement. He was good in English, so his spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura, asked him to take the message of Bhagavad Gita to the western world.

This instruction was given in 1922 but he was able to go to west in 1965.  He went into cargo ship, was having only Rs 40 with him. It was 35 days journey. On his way, he was thinking how to spread the message of Krishna and Chaitanya. With great struggle he reached USA.  And with great struggle, he opened the first Krishna Consciousness centre in New York. Today all over the world Iskcon temple is present.

70 crore Vedic books translated by Srila Prabhupada distributed all over the world

Today even westerns devotees wear Indian Vaisnav dress like dhoti, kurta and saris. They put tilak. Srila Prabhupada translated Vedic scriptures in English language. Today more than 70 crore Vedic books translated by Srila Prabhupada have been distributed all over the world. Many renowned universities use it.

These books are today available in almost all the languages. Prabhupada translated more than 70 books.  He wanted that these Vedic books should be read by whole world and not just by Indians. In this modern age also we can live as per the Vedas.

May God shower his mercy upon Prime Minister Modi and his government

We are thankful to Prima Minister Modi for his precious time. Srila Prabhupada’s desire was to make everyone in the world happy. We should take benefit of the scriptures and live happily. Along with that Srila Prabhupada started food for life. Today food for life is in all parts of the world. Lakhs are getting the benefit. During Covid pandemic, we opened camps for the people.

Influence of Vedic culture is spreading all over the world. We are thankful to the Prime Minister that he came to inaugurate world’s largest Bhagavad Gita.  You are inaugurating the coin; we thank you for that.

May God give great mercy to your government. It is important that we should also have spiritual knowledge. When praja, people, take benefit of this knowledge, they get benefitted. May Lord give you strength to serve the country. Thank you very much. Hare Krishna!”

HH Gopal Krishna Goswami (@GKGmedia) thanks Honourable Prime Minister Shri @Narendramodi Ji for his kind gesture of releasing of Rs 125 commemorative coin in honour of Srila Prabhupada.#prabhupada125 pic.twitter.com/c33M6MXOfz

— ISKCON (@iskcon) September 3, 2021

Release of Commemorative Coin of Srila Prabhupada, Founder Iskcon on his 125^th Birth Anniversary

After the speech of HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, the program coordinator requested Prime Minister Modi to unveil the coin on the occasion of Srila Prabhupada’s 125^th birth anniversary. Everyone was eagerly waiting for this moment. 

The Prime Minister released the commemorative coin with remote.

Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, speaks on the occasion of release of coin of Srila Prabhupada on his 125th Birth Anniversary

After releasing the coin, Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi spoke the following words praising Srila Prabhupada and Iskcon:

Paying tributes to Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada Ji. https://t.co/Os4Z23Nv4P

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 1, 2021

“Today is a very auspicious day. Two days back was Janmashtami and today is 125^th birth anniversary of Srila Prabhupada.  I see on my screen devotees from all over the world. It seems that lakhs of mind and body is connected to common Consciousness which is Krishna Consciousness. This is what Srila Prabhupada preached all over the world.

We all know that Srila Prabhupada was a transcendental devotee. Along with that he was a great Bharat Bhakt. He participated in non-cooperation movement of Mahatma Gandhi. He refused to take degree from Scottish college Kolkata during the non-cooperation movement.

On his 125^th birth anniversary, India is celebrating 75^th year of independence which we are celebrating as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Srila Prabhupada used to say that he is travelling to different parts of the world because he wanted to give great treasure of India to the world in the form of knowledge and culture. And he was doing so to serve the entire humanity.

Swamiji’s guru, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura, saw his competence and gave him the instruction to take India’s philosophy to the western world.  Srila Prabhupada took the words of his spiritual master seriously and made it his mission.

Srila Prabhupada’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)

As part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, our purpose is to benefit and serve the world. To achieve this, it is important to have help of all. We can imagine if Srila Prabhupada gave so much to the world and if we all by his blessings try together then how much we will gain. Message of love can be spread to each person. How much we can give to the society and to the humanity. India’s sustainable lifestyle and ayurvedic science will benefit all.  

Srila Prabhupada talked about Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Today India has made this her purpose and we are moving in that direction. Whenever I talk about Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, I tell my officials and businessmen to learn from Iskcon.

Here is why I refer to the success of the Hare Krishna movement during my interactions with people. @iskcon pic.twitter.com/CrJMZQ805I

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 1, 2021

When we go to other countries people greet us by Hare Krishna. We feel so happy, so proud. We feel at home. Just imagine if we get the same response for our make in India products then how much proud we will feel. We can learn from Iskcon and achieve our make in India goal.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu bound the world with Bhakti

Krishna said to Arjuna to attain knowledge and finally surrender to Krishna. This is called Bhakti Yoga which is given in Chapter 12 of Bhagavad Gita. Bhakti Yoga kept India’s culture alive when India was under subjugation. If Bhakti was not there then we do not know where would India have been.

आज विद्वान इस बात का आकलन करते हैं कि अगर भक्तिकाल की सामाजिक क्रांति न होती तो भारत न जाने कहाँ होता, किस स्वरूप में होता!

लेकिन उस कठिन समय में चैतन्य महाप्रभु जैसे संतों ने हमारे समाज को भक्ति की भावना से बांधा, उन्होने ‘विश्वास से आत्मविश्वास’ का मंत्र दिया: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 1, 2021

During that period Chaitanya Mahaprabhu bound the world with Bhakti. He gave the mantra of viswas (faith) to the people. He broke caste barrier and established relationship between jiva (soul) and the Lord. In India many sages and saints have come from time to time.  When world wanted Bhakti yoga, Srila Prabhupada came and Iskcon came.

एक समय अगर स्वामी विवेकानंद जैसे मनीषी आए जिन्होंने वेद-वेदान्त को पश्चिम तक पहुंचाया, तो वहीं विश्व को जब भक्तियोग को देने की ज़िम्मेदारी आई तो श्रील प्रभुपाद जी और इस्कॉन ने इस महान कार्य का बीड़ा उठाया।

उन्होंने भक्ति वेदान्त को दुनिया की चेतना से जोड़ने का काम किया: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 1, 2021

Srila Prabhupada’s struggle to establish Iskcon

For Prabhupada, it was not easy to start Iskcon.  He established Iskcon when he was 70 years old. This is the age when most people retire. It is very inspirational for all of us. We see people start saying they are too old to do or too young to do. But Srila Prabhupada from young age to old age continued focussing on his mission.

When he went to west to spread Krishna Consciousness, he did not have anything other than Bhagavad Gita and other scriptures. He got two heart attacks during his journey. He had no money, no place to stay and no surety of food.

In the words of Atal ji, former Prime Minister of India, kisi chamatkar se kam nahi (It is not less than a miracle). 

Iskcon temples and Gurukuls all over the world

Today in different parts of the world there are many Iskcon temples and Iskcon gurukuls. Iskcon has taught umang (enthusiasm), ulas (celebration) and manavta par viswas (faith in humanity). We see in different parts of the world devotees singing and dancing in kirtan.

For others it is utsav (festival) but for us it is part of our life. This attracts people. It is giving new hope to people all over the world. In Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says that when someone loves jiva, the soul, and does not hate anyone, he is loved by God. This thought process has been propagated by Iskcon.

आज दुनिया के अलग अलग देशों में सैकड़ों इस्कॉन मंदिर हैं, कितने ही गुरुकुल भारतीय संस्कृति को जीवंत बनाए हुये हैं।

इस्कॉन ने दुनिया को बताया है कि भारत के लिए आस्था का मतलब है- उमंग, उत्साह, और उल्लास और मानवता पर विश्वास: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 1, 2021

Iskcon devotees doing Krishna seva and are brand ambassador of India

I remember when there was earthquake in Kutch, Gujarat, Iskcon came forward to help. Whether its natural calamity in Uttarakhand or Orissa, Bengal cyclone, Iskcon came to help. During Covid you all have been helping people.

In spite of the pandemic Iskcon served food to lakhs of people, made hospitals for Covid patients and is helping in vaccination.

I thank all the devotees of Iskcon. Iskcon devotees are not only doing Krishna seva (service) but also, they are brand ambassador of India.

Thanks to all. Hare Krishna!”

With this the program to honor Srila Prabhupada on his 125th Birth anniversary by releasing Rs 125 coin in his memory concluded.

Note: I have paraphrased the speech of HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Minister, Shri G Kishan Reddy.

Watch the video of the entire program here: https://pmindiawebcast.nic.in/2021/1sep21.html

Vyasa Puja offering to Srila Prabhupada on his 125th Appearance Day

Dear Srila Prabhupada,

Please accept my humble obeisances.

This year we are celebrating your 125th Vyasa Puja. But because of my ignorance I do not know how to glorify you. Please forgive me for my incompetence. I owe my life to you.  You are full of compassion, full of mercy. This is the reason you are ready to shower your mercy upon souls like me who do not have much inclination towards spiritual life. To save unfortunate souls like me you came to this world. You carried the teachings of Lord Chaitanya with you. You were always eager and ready to serve your dear Lord, Lord Chaitanya. And to please him you were even ready to go to hell and serve the suffering souls there.

In one of your diary entries, you share your heart.

Srila Prabhupada’s Diary

Sunday 6 March 1966

Sunrise at 6/30. Sunset at 5/53 Moon rise at 5/28 Full Moon 8/46 pm.*

Today whole day passed at Monroe Ananda Ashram. In the morning there was kirtan and it was very much appreciated.

Returned from Monroe at 6 pm.

Talked with Mr. Majid of Tehran (Iran). Interested in spiritual rejuvenation of the world. Took lesson for more than one and a half hour.

According to Mayapur Panjika* today is Adhivas day of Gour Purnima. Devotees at Vrindaban and Nabadwipa are enjoying the celebration. I am here alone without any devotee companion. But I have come here to serve the Lord and not for personal happiness. I am prepared to live in hell even if I am able to serve the Lord. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu wanted that His mission should be propagated all over the world and that is my objective. I do not mind the inconvenience personally felt.

Source: https://prabhupadabooks.com/diaries/beginning/1/1/sunday_6_march

Because of your extraordinary determination you have succeeded in your mission of fulfilling Lord Chaitanya’s mission.  Today it is because of your mercy that millions of people like me are being saved from going to hell.

Why happiness always eludes us?

Each one of us struggle in this world to be happy but we do not know what it means to be happy. We think that by satisfying the demands of our material mind and senses we will become happy. We think that if we get power, position, prestige in the society then we will become happy. So, we dedicate our life in serving the unholy demands of our senses and mind.  But in spite of our best efforts, happiness eludes us.

If a thirsty man drinks sea water to quench his thirst, then he will become more miserable. Similarly, when we try to satisfy our hungry heart with the things of this contaminated world, we become more miserable.  You came to educate us that the hunger of our heart can only be satisfied if we give our heart to Krishna.  Srila Prabhupada, you taught us how to sincerely practice devotion to Krishna. You practically showed us how we can become a sincere devotee of Krishna even in this age of Kaliyuga.

Srila Prabhupada’s greatest gift to mankind

In fact, millions of people all over the world should be eternally indebted to you because you have opened the door of the spiritual world for each and everyone of us. I never new there is some place called spiritual world. Most of the people did not know about it. Although the acharyas have spoken about it, Krishna himself has spoken about it but in this age of downfall this supreme transcendental secret was almost forgotten. You revived that knowledge and showed us the glimpse of the spiritual world through your transcendental literatures. This is the greatest gift you have given to mankind. You came to invite us to join Krishna in Krishna’s abode.

Without light darkness cannot be quelled. Similarly, you made it clear that without Krishna happiness is impossible. You gave us hope that attaining Krishna’s abode is indeed possible. The only requirement is that we should purify our hearts of all material desires and enthrone Krishna in our hearts.

Srila Prabhupada taught how to experience spiritual pleasure in material world

It is not that we will experience spiritual joy only when we will return to the spiritual world. If we live as per your teachings, then even in this life we can enjoy transcendental pleasure.

In Bhagavad Gita 18.54 purport you write, “The world is miserable for the materially infected person, but for a devotee the entire world is as good as Vaikuṇṭha, or the spiritual sky.” You taught us that we can be freed from our material diseases if we constantly engage all our senses and the mind in the service of Krishna.  If we do so, then this world will not inflict sufferings upon us.

“A devotee’s senses are not attracted by material enjoyment. And even though the material world is full of misery, the devotee considers this material world to be also spiritual because everything is engaged in the service of the Lord. The difference between the spiritual world and material world is the mentality of service.” (Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.4.25)

In one of the lectures HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj says that we do not have to do anything extra. Whatever is required to go to the spiritual world has been given to us by Srila Prabhupada. So, we just need to follow your instructions as it is. 

Begging for the shelter of Srila Prabhupada on his 125^th Vyasa Puja

Dear Srila Prabhupada, this year we are celebrating your 125^th Vyasa Puja. Although we cannot see you today with our mundane eyes, but you are always present in our heart. Today your books and teachings are transforming the lives of millions of people all over the world. You are saving us from going to hell. You are the one who is transferring the sufferings souls of this world to the spiritual world. 

Dear Srila Prabhupada, on this auspicious occasion of your 125^th anniversary of appearance, Vyasa Puja, I beg at your lotus feet for your shelter. Please purify my intelligence so that I can understand your instructions. And please give me strength and determination so that I do not deviate from spiritual standards and live my life as per your teachings and instructions.

Your insignificant servant

Purushottam Nitai Das, Kolkata

Whom do you love more – Krishna or your husband?

Once Srila Prabhupada jokingly asked a newly married girl, “Whom do you love more – Krishna or your husband?”

The girl hearing the question started crying.

Prabhupada was little surprised. He asked her why is she crying.

The girl replied, “I am just married so I don’t know much about my husband so can’t say that I love him very much.”

“Also I do not have taste for the holy name so it seems that I don’t have love for Krishna too.”

 Prabhupada said, “No problem. Keep trying, gradually taste for holy name will develop and love for Krishna will manifest”.

To love a person we need to know the person

It is true that unless we know a person completely it may not be possible for us to love him/her. Love for a person develops when we start seeing his/her qualities, sacrifices and how much he/she cares for us selflessly.

It is not that from day one we start loving our mother and father. But when we see how selflessly they are taking care of us often sacrificing their own desires and comforts we start developing love for them.

Krishna also loves us selflessly. Whether we love him or not he continues to love us providing all the necessities of life. It is true that we suffer too but suffering is meant to correct us.

If we start practicing devotional life by chanting the Hare Krishna mahamantra sincerely and read more about Krishna then gradually we will understand Krishna and love for him will manifest.

Krishna in Bhagavad Gita assures that if we remember him constantly without deviation and remain engaged in his devotional service then we can easily attain him. B.G. 8.14.

By determined spiritual practice we can attain Krishna

In the beginning it may not be possible to always remember him but with constant practice it can be possible. For example when we chant our mind wanders because as of now we are not having sufficient taste for the holy name. So it is advised that while chanting we should try our best to control our wandering mind and force it to focus on the holy name. If we do it continuously then eventually our mind will also develop taste for hearing the holy names.

And since chanting is not a material activity it’s a spiritual activity so when we chant then Krishna cleanses our heart and mind of all material thoughts and purifies it.

As Lord Chaitanya says in Siksastakam, “Chanting cleanses the heart of all the dust accumulated for years and extinguishes the fire of conditional life of repeated birth and death.”

If we practice devotion to Krishna with determination then Krishna will provide us everything which will help us to attain him.

Krishna in Gita assures us, “But those who always worship Me with exclusive devotion, meditating on My transcendental form – to them I carry what they lack, and I preserve what they have.” Bg 9.22.

When we love Krishna, we love all

Now back to the question

Should a devotee wife love Krishna more than her husband or vice versa?

The beauty of devotional life is that the more we love Krishna the more we develop love for everyone. So if a wife or a husband  is a dear devotee of Krishna then his/her love for his/her spouse will also multiple manifold – a win – win situation.