Tag: Srila Prabhupada

What is the mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada? To help you attain love of Krishna.

The mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada is to spread unadulterated teachings of Lord Krishna all over the world. So that you and I can lead a Krishna conscious life and ultimately attain love of Krishna. According to Srila Prabhupada the purpose of human form of life is to establish relationship with Krishna and return back to the kingdom of Krishna. This is the panacea for all material sufferings. And this is the ultimate perfection of life.

But for most of the spiritual leaders, spirituality is a means to improve material life.  But Prabhupada did not focus much on improving one’s material well – being. Why so? Because he contends that if we lead a pure spiritual life then our material life will be automatically taken care.

In this world, we suffer because of the sins we committed in the past and because of the sins we are committing now because of ignorance. But when we bring Krishna in our life then he burns our past sins and removes our ignorance so that we do not commit any more sins.  So, by practicing devotion to Krishna we become happy in this world also.  

The mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada is best reflected in the preface of Bhagavad Gita as it is. There are three aspects to it. Let us try to understand:

Three aspects of the mood and mood of Srila Prabhupada

1. To present the message of Krishna to the world without any adulteration.

Srila Prabhupada wrote several books. One of the most widely read books of Srila Prabhupada is his commentary on Bhagavad Gita. He called his Bhagavad Gita commentary as “Bhagavad Gita as it is.” The word “as it is” means that his book presents the message of Krishna without any adulteration.

Srila Prabhupada explains, “Our business is to present the will of Kṛṣṇa, not that of any mundane speculator like the politician, philosopher or scientist, for they have very little knowledge of Kṛṣṇa, despite all their other knowledge.”

There are many scholars who have commented on this sacred book but have misinterpreted Krishna’s message. They use ‘Bhagavad Gita’ to propagate their own agenda. Someone even wrote a book and called it as “My Gita.” It has nothing to do with Krishna’s Gita. Many writers/commentators freely use the word ‘Gita’ because Bhagavad Gita is famous all over the world. Prabhupada strongly condemns these so-called scholars who in guise of writing commentary on Bhagavad Gita present their own mission and not Krishna’s mission.

In his commentary Prabhupada directly talks about Krishna’s mission. Krishna’s words are presented as it is. There is no personal interpretation. Whatever Krishna spoke to Arjuna, the same conversation is presented.  Most importantly Prabhupada’s commentary is as per the knowledge which is coming down through the chain of disciplic succession (paramparā).  So, it authentic.  

2. To establish Krishna as the Supreme Personality of Godhead

In Bhagavad Gita Krishna says that he is the Supreme God.  Few examples are:

• “I am the source of all spiritual and material worlds. Everything emanates from Me. The wise who perfectly know this engage in My devotional service and worship Me with all their hearts.” Bhagavad Gita 10.8
• “O conqueror of wealth, there is no truth superior to Me. Everything rests upon Me, as pearls are strung on a thread.” Bhagavad Gita 7.7

Krishna even shows his virat – rupa (universal form) in which entire universe is situated.

Later Arjuna too confirms that Krishna is indeed the Supreme Lord, and this truth has been accepted by great sages like Narada and others. 

Arjuna says “You are the Supreme Personality of Godhead, the ultimate abode, the purest, the Absolute Truth. You are the eternal, transcendental, original person, the unborn, the greatest. All the great sages such as Nārada, Asita, Devala and Vyāsa confirm this truth about You, and now You Yourself are declaring it to me.” Bhagavad Gita 10.12-13.

In spite of these evidence there are mayavadi scholars and mundane scholars who write commentary on Bhagavad Gita but do not accept Krishna as the Supreme Lord.  They reject Krishna.  These so-called scholars say that Krishna and his inner spirit are different. They deny Krishna’s personality. But this is mental speculation. There is no verse in Gita where it is said that Krishna and his inner self are different. Prabhupada strongly refutes this illogical understanding.

He writes, “Kṛṣṇa is absolute, and there is no difference between Kṛṣṇa’s name, Kṛṣṇa’s form, Kṛṣṇa’s qualities, Kṛṣṇa’s pastimes, etc.”  In his Bhagavad Gita commentary, Prabhupada again and again underlines that Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead.  He gives reference from Bhagavad Gita and also from other Vedic literatures to confirm Krishna’s Supreme position.

3. To educate people that real happiness is in serving Krishna and not in serving one’s senses

Prabhupada has made one thing very clear that no matter how hard you and I try but we cannot attain complete bliss as long as we have material consciousness. The more we try to fulfil our material desires, more miserable we become.

We are souls and Krishna is the Supersoul. As souls, we are part and parcel of Krishna.  We are eternally related to Krishna. Krishna, the Supreme Lord, is the Supreme Controller, the cause of all causes. He is the source of all happiness.

So, to attain eternal happiness, we should connect ourselves to Krishna. We should endeavour to develop relationship with Krishna.  And how to develop relationship with Krishna has been explained in detail in Bhagavad Gita and other books of Srila Prabhupada.

Whatever activities we do in this world, we should keep Krishna in the centre. Whatever results we achieve we should offer it to Krishna.

Krishna in Bhagavad Gita 9.27 says, “Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer or give away, and whatever austerities you perform – do that, O son of Kuntī, as an offering to Me.”

And instead of satisfying our material senses, we should always try to satisfy Krishna’s senses. This will bring peace and happiness.

And we should regularly chant the names of Krishna like the Hare Krishna Mahamantra – Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare/Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare.

By doing so our hearts will get free from all material impurities and we will gradually develop love for Krishna. Once we attain love of Krishna all our sufferings will end. We will attain complete perfection.

Conclusion

The mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada was to fulfil the mission of Krishna.  Krishna does not want anyone to suffer.  Srila Prabhupada, a pure devotee of Krishna, felt pain when he saw people are suffering.  Prabhupada wanted everyone to live as per the teachings of Krishna given in sacred books like Bhagavad Gita. He wanted people to become devotees of Krishna and attain love of Krishna. This is the best way to attain freedom from all sufferings.

To help people lead a Krishna conscious life, Srila Prabhupada established ISKCON.  Today ISKCON is playing a very important role in spreading unadulterated message of Krishna in every nook and corner of the world. Millions of people are becoming devotees of Krishna because of ISKCON.

70th Vyasa Puja Celebration of HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj

This year we are celebrating 70^th Vyasa Puja of HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj. Maharaj has been playing a very significant role in sharing the teachings of Vedic literatures all the over the planet.

He lives for Krishna and loves to give Krishna to others. He follows the teaching of Srila Prabhupada, his spiritual master, as it is and never compromises with any principles. And like Srila Prabhupada he has deep compassion for all the living beings.

It is because of his selfless love and genuine desire that he has been able to transform the lives of thousands of people all over the world.

He not just preaches by his words, but he also preaches by his actions.

We can learn so many lessons from Maharaj’s life. Here I am sharing some of the incidents from his life which is so inspiring.

Maharaj wins the heart of a person who disliked him

Once Maharaj was invited to speak in a temple program. Many well-wishers and donors were invited for the program.  Maharaj took one bhajan of Bhaktivinoda Thakura and started giving class based on its teachings. He said that how people have so much greed for material wealth. How people work like donkey hoping that they can enjoy the world.

One of the donors who was attending the program got upset. He left the class immediately in an angry mood. He did not hear the complete lecture. The organizers of the program came to know about it.

After the class, devotees informed Maharaj what happened. Maharaj smiled. He jokingly said, “I thought everyone likes my class. But here is someone who did not like my class. Give me his phone number, I will speak to him.” Maharaj called up the person. The donor was surprised. He had never expected a call from Maharaj.

Maharaj Seeks Forgiveness

Maharaj sought forgiveness from him for hurting his feelings. Maharaj then said that whatever I spoke were not my words. But were the words of Bhaktivinoda Thakura, a great Vaisnava saint and scholar. I was just repeating his teachings. Maharaj started speaking about the glories of Bhaktivinoda Thakura.

He informed the donor as how Bhaktivinoda Thakura was a judicial magistrate. He was an expert in his profession that everyone respected him. He wrote many books which are appreciated by many intellectuals. Along with that Bhaktivinoda Thakura was a great devotee of Krishna and played a pivotal role in spreading the teachings of Lord Chaitanya.

Maharaj again sought forgiveness from him. The call ended!

Maharaj inspires the donor to chant the names of Krishna

The donor immediately rushed to the temple to meet Maharaj. But Maharaj had left the city for another program. The donor requested the devotees in the temple to inform him when Maharaj returns. So, when Maharaj returned back to the city the devotees informed the donor. He immediately came to the temple.

Maharaj was sitting in temple hall and chanting. Devotees told him to go and meet Maharaj. He went and begged forgiveness from Maharaj for his attitude and for misunderstanding his lecture.  

He said, “Please give me some punishment. I want to do atonement.”

Maharaj smiled and said, “For that you should chant one round of Hare Krishna Mahamantra.”

He immediately agreed. Devotees gave him beads and he chanted one round. After chanting he informed Maharaj that he completed his one round. Maharaj then said that you should daily chant one round of maha-mantra. He agreed.

From that day onwards, he chanted daily. And slowly from one round he came to sixteen rounds. He later took initiation from Maharaj and became Maharaj’s disciple.

Maharaj won the heart of the person who had initially disliked him by his exemplary behavior.

Maharaj by his humility, gentleness and politeness won his heart. Most of us would have criticized him or would have ignored him. And he would never returned back to Iskcon. He would have never become a devotee. But because of Maharaj’s compassion he became a devotee.

Through this example Maharaj is teaching us what should be the proper behavior of a devotee of Krishna.

He has the quality of a Uttama Adhikari

Maharaj never sees bad in others & never criticizes others

In Nectar Of Instruction, Text 5, Srila Rupa Goswami explains that a pure devotee of Krishna is always engaged in undeviated devotional service and his heart is completely devoid of propensity to criticize others.

This quality we see in Maharaj. Maharaj never sees bad in others. He always sees good in others. And Maharaj extends himself to a great extent to give Krishna to others.

He is very personal in his dealings. He always respects others’ feelings and sentiments. He is our best well-wisher.

Maharaj preaches by his actions

He preaches by his words and also by his actions. What attracts people is not philosophy but the conduct of a person. We may recite all the 700 verses of Bhagavad Gita. We may expertly explain the meaning of these verses. We may sing nice kirtans. All these things will enthrall people, no doubt.  But it may not transform them.

But our one act of kindness, one word of love will completely change the heart of a person. This quality we see in Maharaj.  It is because of Maharaj’s loving and caring attitude that he has been able to preach to thousands of people all over the world.

His humility and simplicity and desire to serve selflessly attracts the hearts of so many people. This is the reason why thousands of people love Maharaj so much.

Maharaj knows the language of the heart.

In his Journey Home book Maharaj writes about the interaction which he had with many wonderful people. And many times, those with whom Maharaj met did not know English and as far as I know Maharaj does not speak Hindi. I have never heard him speaking in Hindi or any other Indian languages. But Maharaj was able to communicate with all.

Language has never been a barrier for Maharaj to establish relationship with others!

Maharaj has very intimate friends in Vrindavan. He has lived in Vrindavan. He loves the Vrajvasis and they love him. But most of the Vrajvasis with whom Maharaj has good relationship do not know English. And Maharaj do not know the language of the Vraja.

So, it is surprising that how Maharaj has such a wonderful relationship with those fortunate residents of Vrindavan.  Vrajavasis are simple hearted devotees of Krishna. They see Maharaj’s unconditional and unmotivated love for them.

Always eager to serve the Vrajvasis

Maharaj is always eager to serve the vrajvasis.  Once one vrajvasi came to Radha Gopinath temple in Mumbai. Maharaj was so happy to see him. He made all the arrangements for his stay. He made sure that he gets proper prasadam.  Then Maharaj went to his room.

Suddenly Maharaj got up at around 1 am in the night. He called for the devotee who was asked to take care of the Vrajvasi. The devotee was surprised. “What is so urgent, Maharaj?”

Maharaj said, “The room given to the Vrajvasi has western toilet and it will be difficult for him to use that toilet in the morning.  Out of humility he won’t share his problem. He won’t be able to come for the morning program.”

He further said, “Make arrangement for him so that in the morning he is able to use Indian toilet. But it should be done in such a way that he is not disturbed now. When he gets up then someone should be there to guide him.”  The arrangements were made accordingly.

This shows how Maharaj’s caring nature. He takes care of even the smallest need of a person.

Maharaj is a visionary

Maharaj has played a pivotal role in establishing the iconic Bhaktivedanta Hospital in Mumbai. HG Bisswaroop Prabhu, one of the founding members of the hospital, was once saying that as young doctors they all could have established their individual clinic or hospitals. And they could been successful too.

But Maharaj told them that if they work independently then they will get individual success but if they come together and do things together, they will create history.

Inspired by Maharaj, the young doctors decided to give up the lure of working in big hospitals or establishing their private practice. But they decided to come together and serve together for a higher cause. And today the hospital they established is one of the famous hospitals in Mumbai.

Bhaktivedanta hospital is not just a regular hospital where people get treatment for their physical illness. But it is a spiritual care center. People not just get medicine for their physical suffering but most importantly they get medicine of the holy names which can alleviate all the sufferings forever.

Patients and their family members are given spiritual education, they are inspired to chant the holy names of Krishna and everyone gets prasadam. The hospital staff members take deities of Lord Jagannath on a mobile cart to every patient in the evening so that they get blessings of the Lord. And it is not that only Hindu patients come to the hospital. Many non-Hindus come, and they appreciate the service there.

Preaching by the doctors of the hospital

Devotee doctors along with other members of the hospitals have preached to thousands of people who come to the hospital. It is said that every year around 365 people who visit the hospital become devotees who start chanting 16 rounds of Hare Krishna Mahamantra.  So, every day one person becomes devotee and begins chanting 16 rounds of maha-mantra. An extraordinary achievement!

Once when I had gone to the hospital for a program then during a presentation the hospital authorities told us about incidents when patients have left their body in a devotional atmosphere.

A dying man is encouraged to chant the names of Krishna

One incident was of a man whom the doctors said had just few minutes left. His wife and doctors helped him to chant the holy names of Krishna at the last moment.  They showed us a picture in which his wife was helping him to hold the chanting beads and was encouraging him to chant at the last moment o his life.  This is the best way to serve the society.

Under the guidance of Maharaj, the doctors of Bhaktivedanta hospital serve the Vrajvasis free of cost. Free eye camps, free dental camps and other initiatives are taken by the doctors in the holy dham of Vrindavan.

Maharaj teaches us how to love and serve Krishna selflessly

Maharaj always emphasize that we should practice devotion to Krishna with utmost sincerity and without any ulterior motives. When I was getting initiation from Maharaj then during the initiation lecture, he said that as devotees we should always be away from any kind of politics.

“Do not get involved in any politics. Have no desire for name, fame, power and position. Your only desire should be to practice Krishna consciousness sincerely and serve all selflessly.”

This is the mood of Maharaj. And we all should try to imbibe this mood.

Maharaj is following the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada. Today he is one of the most prominent spiritual teachers. He is also the author of two best sellers – “The Journey Home” and “The Journey Within.”

If we want to transform our lives, then we should hear his lectures which is widely available on YouTube. If we want to know about Maharaj’s spiritual journey then we should read “The Journey Home”, his autobiography. This book has sold thousands of copies all over the world. It has been translated into many languages. It is New York Times best seller. Maharaj’s another book “The Journey Within” teaches us how to change our inner self and lead a Krishna conscious meaningful life.

This human life is extremely precious because it gives us an opportunity to free ourselves from all the sufferings. And most importantly provides an opportunity to return back to the kingdom of Krishna, Goloka Vrindavan.

If we remain under the shelter of HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj, follow his teachings sincerely our journey to the kingdom of Krishna will be smooth and pleasurable. In fact, every moment we will experience the presence of Krishna in our hearts.

On the auspicious occasion of Maharaj’s 70^th Vyasa Puja, I pray at his lotus feet to shower his mercy upon me so that I continue chanting 16 rounds of Hare Krishna Mahamantra sincerely and follow the four regulative principles of no meat eating, no gambling, no intoxication and no illicit sex. And I should engage every moment of my life in serving the mission of Lord Chaitanya and Srila Prabhupada without any selfish desire. 

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Vyasa Puja celebration of Srila Prabhupada at Iskcon Kolkata

Although the pandemic has shut down the whole world but the devotees’ zeal to continue practicing Krishna consciousness hasn’t diminished.  Janmashtami was celebrated with great fanfare by the devotees at home. And after Janmashtami was the 124^th Vyasa Puja celebration of Srila Prabhupada which is very dear to all the devotees of Iskcon. In fact, we all are eternally indebted to him for revealing us the supreme reality that we all belong to Krishna.  

Srila Prabhupada rules the heart of millions of people

Alexander, the Great, conquered the world with the weapons of mass destruction but Srila Prabhupada conquered the hearts of millions of people all over the world with the weapon of the holy names.

Who was the best conqueror?  Alexander or Srila Prabhupada?  Alexander is today alive only the pages of history books. But Srila Prabhupada is present in the hearts of millions of people. Alexander after leaving this world was unsure of his destination but Srila Prabhupada was always with Krishna, is now also with Krishna and will forever be with Krishna.  So, the answer is obvious.

Srila Prabhupada came to take us to our eternal home

Srila Prabhupada appeared in this world to take us back to the abode of Krishna, which is our eternal home, which is free from all kinds of sufferings and which is filled with unlimited transcendental pleasures.

He is our supreme well-wisher and will continue to remain so for eternity.  So, whenever his appearance day comes devotees’ heart gets filled with gratitude and they want to celebrate it in a big way.

Srila Prabhupada’s appearance day was celebrated next day of Janmashtami in the temple and by all the grihasta devotees at home.

But the temple authorities decided to again have a special celebration on 1^st Sep.

Significance of 1^st Sep

Why 1^st Sep?

Because as per English calendar Srila Prabhupada appeared on 1^st September.  

And as per Vedic calendar, Srila Prabhupada appeared next day after Janmashtami.

It was decided that through zoom all the devotees will come together and celebrate the festival.

The best way to celebrate the festival is to glorify Srila Prabhupada, offer our prayers to him, seek his blessings, and thank him for bringing joy in our lives.  

Devotees expressed their deep love while making offerings

The program started in the evening at 5 pm IST. We connected to zoom.  There were brahmacharis from Iskcon Kolkata temple and Iskcon Goshala, which is in New Town, grihasta devotees which included both prabhujis and matajis.

After a short kirtan, devotees started making their offerings. Some spoke extempore and some had already prepared it beforehand and read it.

Devotees shared their joy, their sorrow, their challenges, and their intense desire to continue practicing Krishna Consciousness. They were speaking from their hearts.

While hearing offerings of other devotees, I was wondering what will I say when my turn will come?

When I got an opportunity, I made my offering. 

But I felt that I did not speak from the bottom of my heart. Because of material conditioning I am still not able to realize the sacrifices which Srila Prabhupada made for people like me.

In my offering I said to Prabhupada that “You taught us how to be engaged in Krishna Consciousness 24hours a day.” And during this pandemic when we are forced to stay at home, I can fully experience it. Many of my office colleagues, friends, neighbors, relatives say that they are getting mentally disturbed because of lockdown. They feel frustrated. One person said that these days he is losing his temper quite often. And it is natural. In the history of humankind never such a situation came when the entire world was shutdown.

But for devotees this is not such a big problem.

Why?

Because there are so many positive spiritual engagements available.

How to remain always engaged in Krishna’s service?

From the time we get up in the morning (around 4 am) to the time we go to bed (around 10 pm), we have so many things to do.

1. As soon as we get up, we take bath.
2. We then have to clean the altar and do Mangala Arati.
3. Mangal Arati is followed by Narasimha Arati, Tulasi arati and Guru Puja.
4. Then we chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra on beads. Chanting takes around 1.5 hours to 2 hours. Devotees who chant fast can finish in 1.5 hours and some may take 2 hours.
5. After that we have to cook breakfast for Krishna. While cooking we hear lectures of Srila Prabhupada or of our spiritual master or of some senior devotees or we can hear kirtan.
6. After breakfast, we read Srila Prabhupada’s books like Srimad Bhagavatam, Bhagavad Gita, Chaitanya Charitrmrta.   
7. By the time we complete all this it is almost 9:30 am. So, the entire morning goes in spiritual activity.
8. In the noon again we prepare lunch for Krishna.  If we get time, then we do arati of the Lord in the afternoon.
9. Then evening time is for gaur arati.
10. We also work on plans for preaching. During this period devotees have come with many innovative ideas to preach. Iskcon NewTown Kolkata Facebook page was started during this period. It already has 11,000 followers. Recently HG Anant Bhagavan Prabhu who manages the Facebook page and other social media accounts was discussing with me how to preach to those people who visit our Facebook page. So, devotees are exploring so many avenues to spread Krishna Consciousness.
11. While being engaged in devotional activity, we also have one important service. And that is our office work. The job which we have is Krishna’s gift to us and we have to do our work with utmost sincerity and seriousness. As a devotee we should follow the footsteps of Bhaktivinoda Thakura and do our work efficiently. I have to work for 9 hours daily. Along with our work it is also important to enhance our skills by doing certification courses and by doing trainings. 
12. And if we get some extra time then we can read more & hear more. The more we hear about Krishna and read about Krishna, the more we get purified. And it brings more joy in our life.
13. In fact, there is no limit to hearing and reading. And no limit to chanting too. Prabhupada asked us to chant minimum of 16 rounds. And HG Radheshyam Prabhu, President Iskcon Pune, in many of his classes emphasizes that as much as possible we should try to chant more number of rounds.

So, there is no time to waste.

I am practically seeing how devotees are completely engaged in devotional activities throughout the day. It inspires me a lot.  In the spiritual world this is what we will be doing.  Always serving Krishna. And this life is a preparation for that life.  

In this lockdown I am learning how to cook for Krishna. Cooking was big no for me. In fact, I hated to get inside the kitchen. But somehow, I dragged myself in the kitchen and now I am trying to learn new recipes which can be offered to Krishna. And one good advantage of cooking is that while cooking we can hear lectures which enhances our knowledge about devotional life.

Glorifying Prabhupada is like showing a lamp to the sun

Srila Prabhupada gave a direction to our life. He taught us how to lead a happy life. So, all the devotees are so grateful to Prabhupda. They have given their hearts to him. For lesser mortal like me it is not possible to glorify Prabhupada properly.

Glorifying Prabhupada is like showing a lamp to the sun. 

After my offering, HG Acharyaratna Prabhu sent me a private message on zoom messenger that my offering was thoughtful. I know devotees praise us for whatever little we do and, in their praise,, there is also a hidden message which we should understand. So, I think I should be thoughtful more while contemplating on the glories of Srila Prabhupada, contemplating about his sacrifices and contemplating about his struggle to spread Krishna Consciousness throughout the world.

HG Acharyaratna Prabhu read the offerings of the GBCs of Kolkata – HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj, HH Bhakti Charu Swami Maharaj and HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj.

We all know that HH Bhakti Charu Swami Maharaj has left to serve Srila Prabhupada in the spiritual world. But before leaving this world he wrote his offering.  His offering was so wonderful. As usual he poured his entire heart into it and expressed his deep desire to serve the instructions of Srila Prabhupada.

HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj shares pastimes of Prabhupada in Kolkata

One of the best parts of the ceremony was reserved for the last. And it was the class of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj. Maharaj in detail spoke how Prabhupada after establishing Iskcon in the west, established the first temple of Iskcon in India in Kolkata. Maharaj narrated many pastimes with Prabhupada in Kolkata. It is so amazing that almost after 50 years, Maharaj remembers the details so clearly. This shows that he constantly meditates on the days he spent with Prabhupada.

Maharaj said that when Srila Prabhupada was in Kolkata then thousands of people used to come for his programs in 1970s. It was the time when communism was expanding in West Bengal. And communists do not like spiritual people, they propagate atheism. They are also known for resorting to violence. someone sent a letter to Prabhupada that either you leave Kolkata or be ready to die. Prabhupada remained unperturbed. When the police came to know about the letter, they told not to worry.

Maharaj also said there is a small deity of Radha Govinda which Prabhupada personally used to worship. And that deity is still in Kolkata temple. This was exciting for the devotees. They will have an opportunity to serve the personal deity of Prabhupada.

Srila Prabhupada risked his life to save the suffering souls

HG Dayaram Prabhu, President of Iskcon Kolkata, in his offering highlighted a very important point. He said that we all know that Prabhupada went all alone to the west at the age of around 70 years with no money on a cargo ship to spread Krishna Consciousness. During the journey, he had two heart attacks and he was almost about to die, but Krishna intervened and asked Prabhupada to continue his journey so that he can deliver millions of suffering souls.

He said that we have heard this story so many times that today many of us take it casually. We may not understand the seriousness of it. We may not realize that what extraordinary risk he took for all of us. Going all alone with no support to an alien land was suicidal.

In fact, Sumati Morarjee who reluctantly allowed Prabhupada to travel on her Jaldutta cargo ship had bluntly said, “You are going to die there.”   

Srila Prabhupada was fearless and determined

If we pause for a moment and reflect on it then we can understand how fearless and determined Prabhupada was.

Within India only if we have to travel then we make so many arrangements. We make sure about the place where we are going to stay. We make sure that we have sufficient amount of money with us. We call and check the person where we are going to stay multiple times.

When I was going to UK then I carried around 2000 pounds with me in cash. I spoke to the person where I was going to stay multiple times. Took multiple printouts of the address. Had also taken address of other office colleagues so that if one option does not work then I can opt for other.  Took a sim card of UK from a friend who had recently returned from UK. And had all the important numbers with me. But still I was worried. 

And Prabhupada had no such options. He had only one address. And he had not ever seen or spoken with the person in whose home he was going to stay.  And he did not have any money to stay in a hotel or any guest house.

What if the host would have not been able to come to pick him up because of some emergencies?

He would have no place to go. He would have no other option but to spend his days on street without food and proper winter cloth. In US, nobody would have understood that he is a sadhu and would have treated him like that.

He would have died because of cold and hunger in US on the road.

And this is why Sumati Morarjee said that you are going to die there. It was so true.

And what was the need for him to do all these things. Because his guru had told him to go and preach in the west. But this instruction was given to many. But not all took it that seriously. But Prabhupada had complete faith in the orders of his spiritual master.

Like Shabari Prabhupada had complete faith in his guru

When Shabari was told by his guru to stay at a place because Lord Rama will come, then she believed him.  And when her guru told her that you will get an opportunity to serve the Lord then she immediately began making all the preparations.  When this instruction was given to her then she was a little girl. And the guru did not tell him when Lord Rama will come. And she even did not ask her guru. “If my spiritual master has said that the Lord will come then he will come.” So, every morning she used to clean the place with the water from the nearby pond, decorate the place with forest flowers and pick berries for the Lord. Chanting and meditating on the Lord she used to wait for entire day for the Lord. But the Lord did not come. Next day again in the morning she used to make all the preparation and would wait for Rama. And again, the next day she used to make the same preparations.

For how long Shabari waited for the Lord?

One day? Two day? Three day? One week? Two weeks? One month? Two months? Three months? One year? Two years?

No. She waited for the Lord for several decades. When she had got the instruction, she was a little girl and when Lord finally came to meet her, she had become an old day.

But while waiting, did she lose her enthusiasm? No. Did she become impatient? No. Did she become morose? No. Because she had firm faith in the orders of his guru.

And finally, Lord Rama came to meet her. She was overwhelmed with joy.

It is said that by the time Lord Rama came to her cottage she was not able to see properly because of old age. And so, when she used to pluck berries for the Lord, she was not able to identify the best berry. So, when she was serving the Lord then she used to taste it to make sure the Lord Rama is getting the best berry.

Like Shabari, Srila Prabhupada had complete faith in the orders of his spiritual master. He had complete faith in the words of Lord Chaitanya.  

Prabhupada had complete faith in Lord Chaitanya’s words

He did not have any doubt. In fact, he would answer convincingly to anyone who questioned his journey.

So, when someone asked him why you are going to west?

His prompt reply used to be, “My guru asked me to share this knowledge with the western people, so I am going?

But who would listen?

I am not sure but since my guru has said then for sure there will be people who will listen to me.

But what can you do all alone? You are old? You are penniless?

Yes, but my guru said me to go. I should have gone earlier. And now I am already around 70. I should not delay any further.

But why west? Why not just preach in India?

Because Indians are imitating the west. If the western people become devotees of Krishna, then Indians too will start practicing Krishna Consciousness seriously. And why should western people be deprived of Krishna? Krishna is not an Indian God or Hindu God. He is the Supreme Lord of the Hindus, Muslims, Christians., Sikhs, Parsis, atheists, agnostics, male, female. He is the Lord of the entire universe. Some know this fact. Some do not know this fact. 

But how will you survive there all alone? You may die?  

We never die. We just change our body which is an external covering.  And I am the servant of Krishna. Krishna knows what is best for me. As long as he wants me to serve on this earthly planet, I will serve here. And when Krishna will ask me to go and serve somewhere else, I will go there. Wherever I will go I will be with Krishna.

What about your food, clothing, and shelter?

Krishna arranges these things for all. Even for birds and animals. And although man thinks that they have made their own houses, but this is actually given to them by Krishna.  Krishna will make all arrangements for me.

But who will listen?

Lord Chaitanya said that his name will be chanted in all the towns and villages of this world. So, there are already people ready to take up Krishna Consciousness. I just have to go and tell them about Krishna & Lord Chaitanya. They will immediately begin practicing devotional life.

But why did it not happen till now?

Because Lord Chaitanya wants me to do it. He could have done it on his own as he is the Supreme Lord, an incarnation of Krishna. But as a loving father he wanted to get this done by me. And so, I am going.  

So, Srila Prabhupada went. And the rest is history.

The best gift to Prabhupada

Prabhupada was born in Kolkata and he left to preach to the whole world from Kolkata. So, Kolkata is so special for all the devotees.

Those of us who are staying in Kolkata have a great opportunity to serve Prabhupada. One of the desires of Prabhupada was to build a magnificent temple of Krishna in Kolkata. And the devotees have taken a big initiative to build the temple.  We all can be part of this wonderful project. This human life is so rare. We have an opportunity to make our life perfect by living as per the guidelines of Prabhupada. This is the best gift we can give to him.

Vyasa Puja offering to Srila Prabhupada

Dear Srila Prabhupada,

I was aimlessly wandering in this world trying to look for pleasure. Some told me that the only way to be happy in this world is to become materially successful. “If you have power and position and possessions, then you will become the happiest person in the world.” 

I thought I got the formula to be happy and peaceful in this world.

But during the course my journey I found that happiness eludes me. When I looked at the life of so-called materially successful people, I found that they too are miserable.  Although they might not be aware of it. And the one thought which always haunted me was that even if I become the richest person on the planet earth, even if I become the most powerful person on this planet earth but it won’t last for long. Any day without any prior information death will come knocking at my door and will take me away.

With all my intelligence I will not be able to save my life. I will not be able to bribe death with all my wealth. And even with all my power I will not be able to overpower death. Death will not allow me to carry anything of this world. Whatever I have accumulated I will be forced to leave here. I will have to leave behind my family members and my friends.

What is the value of money, power, and position in this world?  All are useless.

So, what should be done?  What is life? Who am I?

If everything is meant to end finally then let it end now.

If I have to die, then why not I kill myself and end everything.

I thought let me finish my life because it is useless.

But I found that I do not want to die. I want to live. I want to exist. I want to feel happy. I want to enjoy my life. I want to sing. I want to dance. I want to have wonderful relationship with the people.

If I am nobody just meant to die, then from where these feelings are coming. Why my heart wants love? Why my eyes want to see things which are beautiful? Why I am looking always for happiness? Why I do not want to suffer? What is this world? Why the sun rises every morning and then sets every evening? Why every living creature of this world are struggling to live? Why no one wants to die? Everyone wants to live. Everyone wants to just enjoy their life.

I found I am pleasure seeking. I hate to be miserable.

But I had lost interest in the world. I had lost interest in the studies. I had lost interest in the people. Because nothing gave me any pleasure. I was not living my life. I was simply dragging my life. Yes, my impurities were forcing me do get involved in non sensical material activities.

But it was not me. My mind was dragging me to get indulged in such activities. After wasting my time in worldly pleasure-seeking activities, I cried with tears sometimes and without tears many times.

I read several books of the scientists to know about the world. It did not give me any answer. I turned towards many religious people, read their books but did not get any satisfactory answer.

And then I met the devotees of Krishna. I was desperate to know the truth. They gave me your books. I began reading your books, hearing your lectures. In started attending the classes.

One by one my doubts were getting answered. I wanted to know more. I wanted to know everything.

I remember during one of my first few visits to Radha Kunjabihari temple in Iskcon Pune. During Guru Puja I saw devotees happily worshipping you and dancing in front of you. I thought who are you? Why all are worshipping you? Why should I worship you?

When I read your books, I found that it is filled with pearls of wisdom.  For the first time ever in my life, I found that your books, your lectures have all the answers to all my questions.  The answers were convincing, filled with logic.

The more I read your books, more I heard your lectures, more I read about you my love for you kept on increasing. 

This flickering material world was frustrating me, burning me, torturing me.  I did not know what to do.

But you came in my life like a monsoon rain. You cleared all my doubts.

I do not want to die because as a soul I am eternal. So, I want to live eternally.

I seek pleasure because because as a soul I am pleasure seeking. So, I hate to suffer.

I want wonderful relationship with all because in the spiritual world every soul has wonderful relationship with others. So, I hate to be alone.

I was wandering in the forest filed with thorny bushes and venomous serpents. But like a caring father you held my hand and revealed to be the most important secret which was the cause of all my sufferings.

You revealed to me that I belong to Krishna. Krishna is my father, my mother, my friend, my best well-wisher. You told that Krishna is the Supreme Lord; he is the Supreme Truth.  But unfortunately, I left him to enjoy away from him.  

You also revealed to me the spiritual world and told me that I belong to the spiritual world which is eternal and full of bliss. This temporary material world is not my original home, but the spiritual world is my original home.

I do not know why I left Krishna. But today I know that I want only to be with Krishna.

My frustration with the life ended by your mercy.

However, during my spiritual journey, I have understood one important thing – the process to attain Krishna is simple, but it is not easy.  No one in the entire universe can stop me from becoming a devotee of Krishna but my mind. It is my mind which is my fiercest enemy. I see other people as my enemy. I see others doing harm to me. I see people making plans to insult me, to put me down. But when I go deeper, I find that it is my mind which is creating feeling of pain and pleasure for me.

Dear Srila Prabhupada, you gave me the address of the eternal world where you reside eternally with your and my beloved Krishna. You also showed me the path following which I can reach you in the spiritual world.

But my mind, always knocks me down. And almost all the time I am helpless in front of my mind. I know that if I ignore my mind, if I do not surrender to my mind and with grit practice devotion to Krishna then all the miseries of my life will vanish in a moment. But I am extremely weak in front of my mind. Because for millions of lives, I have served only one master faithfully which is my mind.

I have become so accustomed to serving my mind that I do not have courage to say no to it.  My mind has become extremely powerful. It has bound me from all the sides. No matter how much I try I fail to free myself from its clutches. So, on this auspicious occasion of your appearance day, I pray at your lotus feet to free me from the clutches of my evil mind.  It has devastated my life.

Dear Srila Prabhupada, Please give me strength so that like Avantī brāhmaṇa in all situations and circumstances I should tolerate the urges of my mind. Nothing in this world should agitate me. Nothing in this world should allure me.  For me pleasure and pain remain the same. Happiness and distress should not distract me from my eternal goal.

I never had much desire to continue living in this world. At this very moment too I to not have any love for my life.  I do not fear death. In fact, I never feared death. I always feared life.  

But after coming to Krishna Consciousness I neither fear death nor life.  But I only fear one thing a life devoid of Krishna consciousness.

Dear Srila Prabhupada, please shower your mercy upon me that in whatever situation and circumstances I may be in I continue chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra minimum 16 rounds a day. And I never break any of the four regulative principles.

I pray at your lotus feet millions of time again & again to free me from the clutches of my mind.

There are so many wonderful devotees of Krishna who are doing wonderful service for Krishna as per your instructions. But most of my time gets wasted in struggling with my life. Please bestow your mercy upon me so that I may also do at least something for Krishna.

My heart is filled with lust, greed, pride, anger, envy, illusion and false ego.

I came away from Krishna because I wanted to be away from Krishna. I was selfish. Today also when I look within then with utter shame, I want to admit that I am still selfish. Whatever I do I do it for myself. I always think about myself.

The foremost quality of a devotee is that he does not have any selfish motive. He does not have any enjoying mentality. But I try to enjoy my life without Krishna, without you and without the devotees.

And even when I try to serve you then my mind forces me to serve my ego.

I am in a helpless situation because of my mind. I know that as long as this material body remains, I will have to live with my mind. So, the only way to defeat the mind is to purify it. And I do not have the willpower and purity to purify my mind.

Dear Srila Prabhupada, I beg at your lotus feet to purify my mind free me from the clutches of my evil mind.

And shower your unlimited mercy upon me so that I can serve Krishna selflessly, I serve you selflessly, I serve the devotees selflessly and I serve the entire humanity selflessly.  

Dear Srila Prabhupada, I am eternally grateful to you for all you have given to me. I am not qualified enough to express it in proper words. Or I think there are not enough words which can ever glorify you. 

Today the whole world especially the devotees are celebrating your Vyasa Puja. On this most auspicious day, I just want to say “Thank You” for everything. And I beg you to continue guiding me forever.

Your eternal insignificant servant

Purushottam Nitai Das

We won’t be able to see you but will feel you in our hearts forever

Dear HH Bhakti Charu Swami Maharaj,

Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

Dear Maharaj,

I still cannot accept the fact that you have left this world. When I had come to know about your health condition, I was sure that you will recover from it. But Krishna had a different plan. Krishna wanted you to return to his kingdom. And no one can interfere in Krishna’s plan because he being the Supreme Lord knows what is best for all.

Srila Prabhupada had famously said that a warrior does not die on bed. He loves to leave his body on the battlefield.  Srila Prabhupada’s battlefield was preaching.  You, being a lover of Srila Prabhupada, your battlefield was also preaching. You spent each and every moment of your life in preaching the message of Krishna consciousness all over the world. During this Coronavirus pandemic too, you were trying to spread the message of Krishna consciousness.

You have single handedly inspired thousands of people all over the world to practice Krishna consciousness.  

The life we have got is a gift of Krishna to us and the way we live is our gift to Krishna.

And by your example you have shown us how we should live in this world.  

When you first met Srila Prabhupada then he told you “Give one life to Krishna and be happy forever.”

And as per the instruction of Srila Prabhupada you dedicated your life completely to Krishna.

You represented the mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada at whose lotus feet you dedicated your entire life.  

Srila Prabhupada was so impressed by your dedication and purity that he gave you the service of cooking for him. He made you his personal secretary, the highest position available to any devotee during the lifetime of Srila Prabhupada.  

You were with Srila Prabhpada during his last moments on this planet earth. You have described so many times Srila Prabhupada’s different pastimes and especially his pastime of leaving the world.

I remember during Kartik Yatra of HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj in Vrindavan in 2014 on the disappearance day of Srila Prabhupada you narrated his final pastime of leaving the world which touched everyone’s heart.

Srila Prabhupada gave you the responsibility of translating all his books into Bengali language. And he wanted that the translation should be of very high quality. He was confident that you can do it and so he gave you this service. Following the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada you used to get up in the middle of the night and used to translate the books for many hours and you completed this service by 1995. You translated more than 50 books of Srila Prabhupada.

You also made the TV serial Abhay Charan on the life of Srila Prabhupada. You were the director of the serial and you used to make sure that everything happens in a perfect way. In fact, devotees have said that you personally used to act and show the actors how they should act and express their emotions. And this is the reason why the serial has come out so beautifully.

You played an important role in spreading Krishna Consciousness all over the world.  You have thousands of disciples and thousands of devotees take inspiration from you. But still when someone used to interact with you, it would look as if you had all your time for him. In your presence everyone of us felt that we are special, and we are close to you.

We used to eagerly wait for your classes. And fortunately, you used to come to Kolkata on a regular basis.  I learned so much just by sitting and hearing your classes. Whatever doubts I used to have it got cleared just by listening you.  

One of my doubts used to be that as a grihastha (householder) “How can I do my prescribed duty properly if I do not have any material ambition?”

And you said that if Arjuna can do his prescribed duty without any motive then why can’t you.

And then you said “DO NOT HAVE ANY MATERIAL AMBITION. IF KRISHNA WANTS, HE CAN MAKE YOU EVEN BRAHMA.”

Your answer completely cleared all my doubts.  It showed me how a devotee should do his prescribed duties in this world without any material ambition.  Our only ambition should be to serve Krishna to the best of our capability.

But I never knew that this would be my last question to you.

Once you had told me that as a grihastha it is my responsibility that I should make my house a temple. I should make everyone in my house a devotee of Krishna. And whatever money I have should be used in the service of Krishna.

Your answers always touched my heart.

During your classes, devotees used to ask many questions and you used to immediately clear their doubts and inspire them to grow in their devotional journey.

When I first heard you singing, I could not believe that someone can have such a sweet voice. You had a silken voice. Your kirtans and Vaishnava songs are so touching to the hearts.

HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj have said that “Bhakti Charu Maharaj’s kirtan is famous in all the 14 planetary systems.”

We live in Kaliyuga, the age of hypocrisy.  So, we see so many people wearing the dress of a sannyasi or of a sadhu and indulging in abominable activities.

But great personalities like you through your exemplary life has shown to the entire world that what should be the character of a devotee of Krishna.

It is famously said that, “If you want to know how rich you are then count the number of things you have which money can’t buy.”

As a sannyasi you did not possess any material wealth but by your spiritual wealth you purchased the love of thousands of devotees from all over the world.

People from all over the world was praying for you when you were in hospital. Today everyone is feeling separation from you. Many have tried but almost everyone has failed to hold back their tears. Because everyone is missing you.

Your innocent smile, eyes full of compassion for all of us, effulgent face and heart inundated with love for Krishna immediately drew us towards your lotus feet. You always looked relaxed and in complete control of yourself, free from all material anxiety, continuously absorbed in the holy names of Krishna.

Your divine presence gave us assurance that you are the ultimate protector for all of us. In your company I felt that a fallen soul like me who is so engrossed in this material world have chance to get purified and return to the lotus feet of Krishna.

I know that you left us physically, but you are always with us through your mellifluous words, through your books, through your heart touching kirtans.

I was recently reading the section “Dhruva Mahārāja Goes Back to Godhead” from Srimad Bhagavatam. The book beautifully described how Lord Vishnu sent jewel studded transcendental plane from the spiritual world for Dhruva Maharaj to take him back to the spiritual world. Even two servants of Lord Vishnu, Nanda and Sunanda, came to take back Dhruva Maharaj.

I am just imagining that in Florida, USA too the transcendental plane from the spiritual world would have descended. The servants of Lord Krishna would have invited you to come and sit on that beautiful plane. And along with them you would have gone to the kingdom of Krishna, Goloka Vrindavan. You would have met Krishna, Srila Prabhupada, many great Vaisnava acharyas, your godbrothers and godsisters. And as per the direction of Krishna and Srila Prabhupada you would have already got engaged in your service.

Each and everyone of us wished that you be with us forever. But I know that great personality like you are required in different universes to preach the message of Krishna Consciousness. You would have already been engaged by Krishna and Srila Prabhupada to spread his teachings in different part of the universe.

I know that one day I will also die.

I do not fear death. I fear life devoid of Krishna Consciousness.

But I hope that throughout my life I follow your teachings and guidelines so that I can also purify myself and return back to the spiritual world to serve you, to serve Srila Prabhupada, to serve all the great souls.

Please shower your mercy upon me so that every moment of my life I can remember and serve Krishna as per your teachings.

With our material eyes we won’t be able to see you, but we will always feel you in our hearts forever.

Your eternal Servant

Purushottam Nitai Das

Watch the movie ‘HARE KRISHNA!’ For Free (for limited time only)

If you want to know how a man single-handedly established a worldwide spiritual movement then do watch the movie –

                     HARE KRISHNA!
The Mantra, the Movement and the Swami who started it all

This movie can be watched for free for 3 days starting Friday, April 10.  The movie can be watched on YouTube and Vimeo with subtitles in 19 languages which also includes Hindi.

When to watch:

*From Friday, April 10th at 12pm (EST-USA) i.e. 9:30 pm IST

to Monday, April 13th at 12pm (EST-USA) i.e. 9:30 pm IST

Where to watch:

YouTube:  https://youtu.be/zMfsz9hJz18    

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMfsz9hJz18&feature=youtu.be

Vimeo:  https://vimeo.com/284017187

Yadubara das/John Griesser who is the Producer and Director of the movie says, “We decided at the last minute to have a 3-day *free* viewing of HARE KRISHNA! starting this Friday, April 10…we wanted to take advantage of the Easter holidays and get it out quickly because of the urgent world crisis.”

The movie has won accolades all over the world.

• It has been released theatrically in 38 countries.
• It has got the Best Picture award in Illuminate Film Festival.
• It has the audience rating of 9.6/10 on IMDb.com and 4.9/5 on Amazon.com
• In its review comment, Red Carpet Crash, wrote, “…an uplifting spiritual experience, regardless of one’s personal beliefs or religion”
• The Washington Post called it,” …a stirring story!”
•  The Times of India, gave it a rating of 3/5.

The movie is of 90 minutes.

It shows how Srila Prabhupada who was born in Kolkata, India, when India was under the British Regime led a worldwide Krishna conscious movement.

When Srila Prabhupada boarded the cargo ship, Jaladuta, in Kolkata to go to America he was almost 70 years old.  The ship’s owner Smt. Sumati Morarji said, “You are old man. You are just going to die there.”

He had no money, no proper winter cloth for American winter, no proper place to stay and he did not even know if he will be able to manage food there. Almost everyone advised him not to go.

But Prabhupada was on a mission. He was not thinking about himself but was thinking

• How to bring the people of the world closer to Lord Krishna.
• How to spread the teaching of Lord Chaitanya which will bring peace and happiness in the lives of people.

So, he went. And in few years, he conquered the hearts of millions of people all over the world by his love and compassion and inspired them to practice devotion to Krishna.

The movie brilliantly depicts the challenges, the hardships which Srila Prabhupada faced in his life’s most important mission.

• How he handled the failures?
• How he cried in front of Krishna to help him bring people to his lotus feet?
• How he suffered but never gave up?
• How he survived death?
• And how he handled worldwide success?

The movie shows how young American boys and girls started getting attracted to his teachings and how they dedicated their lives in helping Prabhupada establish ISKCON, International Society for Krishna Consciousness.

Today in the virtual world we have unlimited option to watch movies which most of the time do not depict the reality of the world. Filled with music and dance commercial movies just try to entertain us. It does not transform us.

This movie is different.

This movie is for those

• Who want to do something meaningful in their life?
• Who want to know how a leader is born?
• Who want to understand the attributes of a great leader?
• Who want to know how spirituality brings ultimate happiness in our life?

Deadly coronavirus has brought unprecedented crisis in our lives.  To protect ourselves from COVID – 19, we all are now locked inside our houses.

We can utilize this time to reshape our future.

A small inspiration can change the course of our life. It can help us realize our true potential. The movie has the capability to do so.

Do Watch!

Thousands participate in Jayapataka Swami Maharaj’s 71st Vyasapuja Celebration in Mayapur

Although India is under lockdown, nobody can come out of their houses but still devotees and especially disciples of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja celebrated his vyasapuja on 4^th April 2020 i.e. on the day of Kamada Ekadashi. Maharaj was in Mayapur and very few devotees were there with Maharaj. Those devotees who were with Maharaj were wearing facemask and hand gloves as preventive measure and were keeping safe distance from each other.

And thousands of devotees from all over the world who were not able to be with Maharaj were celebrating the vyas puja through Mayapur TV and through facebook live.

Maharaj’s godbrothers, senior sannyasis and many devotees gave their offerings to Maharaj.

Offering given by Maharaj’s godbrothers, senior sannyasis and various leaders of Iskcon clearly reflected how much love devotees all over the world have for Maharaj.

The offerings of prominent leaders of Iskcon is given below.

Offering of HH Loknath Swami Maharaj:

Srila Jayapataka Swami Maharaja Vyas Puja is being celebrated in Mayapur today which is Kamada Ekadashi. This year it is in small scale. It used to be large every year. But because of coronavirus only few devotees are there. Of course, his disciples and devotees from all over the world are celebrating in their house and temples. He has around 30K – 40K disciples. I am encouraging you all to celebrate Vyasapuja. Vyasapuja ki jai!

Like Maharaj, my birthday and HH Gopal Krishna Goswami Maharaj’s birthday is also on Ekadashi.

He was born in 1949.  He is few months elder to me. But from knowledge perspective he is very elder. He joined Iskcon around 1968. I joined in 1971.He joined in Canada.

One famous thing about him I remember, when he was a new devotee, he had got initiated, he was always doing kirtan very loudly and always chanting Hare Krishna loudly. He used to loudly take name of Krishna in ashram, in the temple and even outside.  He would forget that he is on the road. Outside too he would loudly sing or chant Hare Krishna. People got disturbed. Some went to complain to the police that a person is causing nuisance. He is disturbing our peace.

When Srila Prabhupada came to know about Jaypataka Swami Maharaj, then Srila Prabhupada said we will send him to India, to Mayapur. He can shout as much as he wants name of Krishna in Mayapur, no one will be disturbed in Mayapur by his loud chant. At that time, he was not swami.

He was one of the senior-most sanyasi disciples of Srila Prabhupada. He was one of the first disciples of Srila Prabhupada to be sent to Mayapur. He got the responsibility of Mayapur, of Kolkata. He became GBC. Once in India only HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja and HH Gopal Krishna Goswami was the only GBC from India.

Srila Prabhupada gave him the responsibility of developing Mayapur and TOVP. HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja ki jai. I love him. When we were younger, sometimes there was love and hate. But now I not only like him but love him. I pray that my brotherly love keeps increasing. My love for Maharaj grows daily.

Today Jayapataka Swami Maharaj has become a miracle. We see his bodily condition; he had many operations. But in this state also he is busy, he keeps thinking about preaching, attends all meeting which we miss sometimes. But he is so dutiful. It is a miracle. He is a miracle. Where miracle there is surrender. My prayers to him. Vancha-kalpatarubhyas ca kripa-sindhubhya eva c ..

HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj was touched by the offering of HH Loknath Swami Maharaj and said that “I also love him.”

Offering of HH Bhakti Charu Swami Maharaj:

My dear godbrother Jayapataka Swami Maharaj, on this auspicious day of your appearance, I was remembering all the wonderful memories. You were my leader in Mayapur. You are an example of dedication and devotion. For Srila Prabhupada you sacrificed everything. You sacrificed your wealthy parents, wealthy nation and took a life of austerity in remote village of Mayapur.

To feed all of us you used to go out to collect funds. I saw you beg, scream, fight to get money from persons who were responsible to give money to feed us in the temple. You did all for our sake. I had wonderful experience of going with you to different places in Bengal to distribute books, make life members. During those trips in the evening classes hundreds of people came and you used to give class in Bengali.  We were happy. You were there to lead us. Those were happy days. Please accept my obeisances at your lotus feet and bless me. Your eternally indebted servant Bhakti Charu Swami.

Offering of HH Bhakti Nityananda Swami Maharaj, disciple of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj

Today is your appearance day. I remember how you saved me in the very first meeting which I had with you. I came to take my younger brother Mukunda to home from temple. I told him its nonsense, you are not doing anything for parents and society but simply wasting time. You have shaved your head. But devotees are intelligent. My brother told that I will go home but now its evening, so there is no bus, no train to go home. You should meet my gurudev. I said I will not meet your gurudev.

He knows black magic that is why so many educated people have surrendered. He had given me Rs 101 so that I should donate when I meet a vaisnav. I was not convinced. However, I met him. He has big build up and he was wearing a garland. I thought he knows some magic, maybe black magic.

He said welcome welcome brother of Mukunda. You had prasadam? By birth I am Bengali, but he was speaking Bengali so nicely. He again asked, “You had prasad?” I was there for 2 hours, had no prasad. He phoned somebody. And one devotee brought big rasgulla. I was very hungry. I took. He kept speaking so nicely. He said you stay here, why you want to go back. I thought this man is trying to catch me. I immediately wanted to run away. 

He said see there are free rooms, free prasadam, free cloth. Then he again told me to stay back. I said no. He said stay for at least one month. I said not even for one hour I will stay. He said stay for 15 days. I said not even for one hour I will stay. He again said stay for 7 days. I thought this man is so stubborn. But he was speaking so nicely. Again, I said no. He said at least for 3 days. His speaking hit me. He said to me situation was so bad, Bengal’s economic condition was so bad.

I was graduate. I was trying to make money. I became sentimental. He further said that everything coming from Radha Madhav but educated puffed up people are catching the feet of marwaris for Rs 500 – Rs 600 but they do not bow to Sri Sri Radha Madhav. I did not have that much problem, but I was searching for money. But those words I can never forget in my life. You are the only hope. You gave me so much mercy by shouting, correcting me guru maharaj. You are my only hope. Please save me. Please save me.

Offering of HH Gouranga Prem Swami Maharaj

On this day he appeared in this world. He follows all orders of Srila Prabhupada. He always looks for conclusion in vaisnvas siddhanta. Srila Prabhupada said to him that I have given you the kingdom of God develop it. He is trying to develop Gaur Mandal bhumi. He is trying to rescue all places of Lord Chaitanya, Lord Chaitnaya’s associates and where the Lord performed his pastimes.

In 1979 he started namhatta. He started Navadwip Manadala parikrama. He is trying to take land so that future generations can do parikrama and have place to stay during parikrama. He is constantly thinking of developing the dham. This is how he is serving all and we the disciples should serve him in his mission.

Offering of HG Jannanivas Prabhu

He is my beloved godbrother. He is attentive to satisfy everyone. Once there was flood in Mayapur. Situation was very critical. That time he was in Kolkata. He arranged some boats to come to Mayapur. In lotus building water was rising, there was constant rain, storm.

We were in that situation and he arrived with boats which was full of rice, sabzi (vegetables), dal (lentils). In that tense situation he was standing on the boat and was loudly chanting Jai Gauranga, Jai Prabhupada. He said let us go prepare food and we will go village to village to distribute food. That fearful situation became joyful situation because of him.

I was thinking that because of Coronavirus similar situation has come up now. He is again organizing devotees to chant 3 times a day so that holy name is chanted all over the world. In this bodily situation how he continues his activity I cannot understand? I offer my humble obeisances to him.

Offering of HG Pankajanghri Prabhu

Just by you being here we feel safe and peaceful. When we are in any dilemma, when there is management issue, any concern, any disagreement, then we know that at the end of the day when the situation will be presented to you, you will give the answer and the problem will be resolved.

Everyone feels safe by your presence. You resolve any philosophical doubt. You give your able guidance to the deity department. I pray that you stay here for many years. Krishna please bless HH Jaypataka Swami Maharaj so that he is always with us. Thank you, Maharaj, for everything.

Offering of HG Nitai Sevani Mataji

One sadhu was living with his disciples on a mountain. All his disciples were following instructions except one. The disciples complained to the guru that this particular disciple is  not following the instruction. He is mixing with village people and eating anything. Guru asked then what should we do. The disciples said you banish him. Guru asked, “Why?”

Because he is bringing bad name to the ashram. Guru asked them, “Do you follow everything and not transgressing the principles.” The disciples said yes. Guru said, “Since you all are perfected, you do not need me. So, you all should leave me. But he needs me as still he has difficulties.”

Guru makes you complete. At times you think he is going to punish his erring disciples, but he is the first to help the disciples. In my personal life for last 21 years me and my husband have been serving here (in Vizag). Whenever I used to hear that you are coming, I used to be tense. Is everything ok? Whether his room is good? Will people turn up?

But after few years I realized that guru is not coming to give me marks, to give me report card. He is coming to help, to protect my spiritual life. He is not giving grade. He is with me. He is like my father, my guide, my ever well-wisher. Guru is not judging you. He wants to help you to be better every day.

I beg you to keep us in your prayers and bless me and my husband.

Offering of Sri Vallabh Prabhu (leader of middle east)

This year because of lockdown we are not able to come to Mayapur, but we all are participating from every nook and corner of the world from our houses.

We now see importance of Bhakti Vriksha Shradha kutir. How you have reached out everywhere. Even in such circumstances where people are under lockdown through Bhakti Vriksha and Shradha Kutir they are practicing. Your service is something of pride to Iskcon world over. You have reached to all – rich and poor. You have even reached to less visited places in the world. Srila Prabhupada will be very satisfied. Guru Maharaj in spite of all difficulties you have continued to work for Iskcon, for TOVP.

We have great responsibility to serve you. We pledge to serve you in your multifaceted responsibility. This year is your 50^th year of sannyas. This is a glory to Iskcon. This year on Radhastami we will celebrate 50^th anniversary of your taking sannyas.

We pray to you for strength so that we can serve you.

Offering of HH Bhakti Advaita Nabadwip Swami Maharaj (from Bangladesh)

Please accept our respectful obeisances. This is your 71^st vyas puja. This year is also golden jubilee celebration of your sannyas. Because of coronavirus whole world is under lockdown. We are sitting here in Sylhet, Bangaladesh and are celebrating your vyas puja. Srila Prabhupada asked you to distribute books, develop dham and you fulfilled his desires.

Please include this lowly servant in your service. We are afraid that we may not fulfill your mission. You gave service of Radha Madhav to us at Sylhet. We have now the deities of Radha Madhav. You will be installing the deity of Radha Madhav here. Just by hearing this that you will install the deity, the citizens of Sylhet are in great jubilation.

By seeing you everyone will be joyful. Poison of corona has disturbed all. Please bless so that the people of world will be saved. In 1995, 21^st April, you accepted service of Radha Madhava. You had declared that there will be school, there will be hostel. Now school is there, hostel is there. Citizens are waiting for you to come. You had said that here mini Mayapur will be established. We are eagerly waiting for you here.

Bhagavad Gita Distribution Report

HG Venudhari prabhu who has been serving Maharaj gave the Bhagavad Gita (BG) Distribution report from all over the world.

Number of Bhagavad Gita (BG) sponsorship from different countries: Burma: 71, Canada : 108, New Zealand: 71, Russia: 113, Malaysia: 133, Sri Lanka: 142,Saraja: 142,USA: 546,Bahrain: 624, Abu Dhabi: 831,China: 989,Dubai: 1071,Singapore: 1001,UK: 1278,Saudi Arabia: 1661 ,Europe: 2098,Kuwait: 2389,Bangladesh: 2765 ,Oman: 5014,Qatar: 5482,India: 11,448

Total: 38,186 Bhagavad Gita (BG) Books have been sponsored till now.

As this is the 50^th year of Maharaj taking sannyas so the target is to have 50,000 BG sponsorship by Radhastami.

HG Venudhari Prabhu is supposed to take sannyas on the auspicious day of the vyas puja of his spiritual master, HH Jaypataka Swami Maharaj.  

Share the pictures of vyas puja celebration at your homes or temples

HH Bhakti Purusottama Mahraj gave a proposal: Since thousands of devotees are celebrating vyas puja at their home, they have decorated their altar in a beautiful way.  So, if anyone desire, they can send the photo of the celebration at their homes and these photos will be shown to guru maharaj. The photos can be sent on the following whatsapp number:

+919434506434: Whatsapp number of Bhakti Purushottam Maharaj

+919944018001: Syam Rasik prabhu Whatsapp number

+917305015701: HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja media foundation

Or at 9647200346

HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja vyas puja class

Lord Chaitanya said all over the world my name will be chanted. Srila Prabhupada has established center in every country of the world. Now is the opportunity to help people chant names of God. By chanting Hare Krishna kalmash of Kaliyuga will be destroyed. But if someone wants to chant other names of god Srila Prabhupada said alright.

Anyway, our Srila Prabhupada has given us seva to Lord Krishna. It is something very confidential. Even the priest, even the pundits nobody knows about this concept of serving the Lord. They just pray to god to get some peace or material happiness. They do not know how the love of Godhead and the service of godhead is the real happiness we are searching for. I hope all the devotees participating in vyas puja take this very seriously to develop Krishna Consciousness.

Lochana Das Thakura said that Lord Chaitanya is the crown jewel of all the incarnations of godhead. He has given a process which is simply blissful. We hope all the devotee will taste this bliss.

Seva padma devi dasi from Syam Desh or Balaram Desh said that Vrajvasis were also locked down under Govardhan hill for 7 days. But they did not feel that time was distressful because Krishna was there. We want all the disciples to be with Krishna all the time. Thank you all very much. Hare Krishna.

I am sorry we cannot give you a big feast today.

Washing of lotus feet, puspanjali and arati of HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaj

Bhakti Nityananda Maharaj and Sripad Venudhari prabhu washed the lotus feet of HH Jaypataka Swami Maharaj.

During that time devotees sang the song – Sri Guru charan Padma.

After that Maharaj’s pranam mantra was chanted three times

“Nama Om Vishnu padaya Krsna presthaya bhutale
Srimate Jayapataka swamin iti namine,
Nama Acharya padaya Nitai kripa pradayine
Gaura katha dhama daya nagara grama tarine”

And devotees from all over the world in their mind offered flowers at the lotus feet of Maharaj three times.

After that arati of Maharaj was performed and devotees who were fortunate to be with Maharaj and also thousands of devotees virtual attending the vyas puja celebration sang – saḿsāra-dāvānala-līḍha-loka- trāṇāya kāruṇya-ghanāghanatvam …

HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj teaches an invaluable lesson to a cook

Once HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj was passing through the deity kitchen in the temple. One lady who was doing some service in the deity kitchen saw Maharaj and she immediately came out and offered him her obeisances. Maharaj said that you are fortunate that you have got an opportunity to cook for the deities. The lady appeared little morose and said, “I am not directly cooking for the deities but I am just an assistance to other ladies who are cooking.”

Maharaj immediately said, “It means you are more fortunate,” and he left.

The lady was confused. She could not comprehend as why maharaj said so because those who directly serve the Lord are always considered more fortunate than others who are not directly serving the Lord.  Many thoughts were coming to her mind. She thought may be maharaj spoke in that way so that she does not feel inferior to others. Instead of speculating she decided to consult a senior devotee.

When the senior devotee came to know about the entire incident, he told her that maharaj has taught her one of the most important principles of Krishna consciousness. In the spiritual world the highest position is of a servant and not of a master.  In the spiritual world no one wants to come in the limelight, but everyone wants to assist others in their service of Krishna.  Everyone feels extremely happy when they see other devotees getting mercy of Krishna. He explained that in the kingdom of God there is no fight for name and fame, power and positions.  So you are blessed that you are assisting other devotees in their service to Krishna. Krishna will be so pleased with you.

In one of the lectures of Bhagavad Gita, Srila Prabhupada says, “You have to learn how to become servant of the servant of Kṛṣṇa. The more you become in the lower position—servant, servant, servant, servant, servant, hundreds times servant, servant—then more you are advanced.” Lecture on BG 2.2 — London, August 3, 1973

So if we have to attain Krishna’s love then we should not try to become servant of Krishna but try to become servant of the servant of the servant of Krishna.  As long as we are in material consciousness it would be difficult to even think of becoming servant of any other devotee but if we try to study the life of great devotees of Krishna we find that they all relished their devotional life by serving devotees.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu says, “I am not a brahmaṇa, I am not a kṣhatriya, I am not a vaisya or a sudra. Nor am I a brahmacari, a householder, a vanaprastha or a sannyasi. I identify Myself only as the servant of the servant of the servant of the lotus feet of Lord Sri Krishna, the maintainer of the gopis.”  CC Madhya 13.80

48th Kolkata Rath Yatra bridges religious divide

Little Abhay had tears in his eyes because his father could not afford the small Rath Yatra cart which Abhay was so eager to buy.  Abhay loved Rath Yatra festival and so he wanted to perform his own Rath Yatra.  But it seemed his plans won’t materialize. An old Bengali lady saw Abhay crying and when she came to know why he was crying she showed Abhay and his father an old  cart which was cheap and good enough to serve the purpose. Abhay was delighted. He along with his playmates, family members and neighbours nicely decorated the cart, put Lord Jagannath on it and celebrated the Rath Yatra festival at his home in Kolkata. 

No one would have imagined that the same little Abhay, who later came to be known as Srila Prabhupada all over the world, after several years will lay the foundation of a mammoth Rath Yatra festival in the city of Kolkata.  Iskcon Kolkata celebrated its first Rath Yatra festival in 1972 and this year it was the 48^th Rath Yatra festival.  Since beginning the festival has caught the imagination of thousands of people of Kolkata. In the year 1972 the residents of Kolkata were mesmerized to see white American and European devotees dressed in dhoti and kurta singing and dancing during the Rath Yatra procession. And since then every year the festival has grown in size and its reach. Today not just the local Bengali people participate but people from different cities of India and even outside India come for the festival.  

This year the festival caught the attention of entire nation and was widely covered in print and electronic media when Iskcon decided to invite Nusrat Jahan Ruhi Jain, a newly elected Member of Parliament to Lok Sabha, as one of the guests for Rath Yatra inauguration along with Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister, who was the chief Guest. 

Nusrat Jahan, Muslim by birth, had won appreciation when she wore a vermillion (sindoor), and mangalasutra ( sacred necklace which married Hindu women wears) while taking oath in Parliament.  While majority of people appreciated her for her inclusive approach but she also invited the wrath of few hardline Muslim clerics whom she ignored. 

Thanking Iskcon for giving the opportunity to participate in Rath Yatra, she said, “I will pray to Lord Jagannath for the well-being of all the people of West Bengal. I wish everyone comes together to pull the lord’s chariot,”  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/tmc-mp-nusrat-jahan-attends-iskcon-rath-yatra-calls-for-unity/articleshow/70071315.cms

Its an honour Sir.. #unity #secularIndia https://t.co/G1mrWBcnz4

— Nussrat Jahan (@nusratchirps) July 4, 2019

Krishna Consciousness movement never ever discriminates people on the basis of caste, creed, religion, nationality or gender.  So people in general all over the world appreciates the message of social harmony which Iskcon is working hard to spread.  Srila Prabhupada taught that we all are children of same God and so we should coexist with each other like brothers and sisters. Today when the world is witnessing rise in sectarianism teachings of Srila Prabhupada can help to unite the world.  And festivals like Rath Yatra where people from diverse socio economic background participate to make the event successful plays an important role in spreading the message of peace and unity.  During Kolkata Rath Yatra people from diverse religious background get involved to organize the event.  From construction and decoration of the three chariots to setting up of beautiful pandal at Gundicha temple to ensuring smooth supply of essential items all work together.

Just like in Jagannath Puri here also the mula vigraha of Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva and Subhadra Devi come out of the temple to enthrone the three huge chariots.   This year the festival was celebrated on 4^th July and thousands of devotees participated in this wonderful event.

Before the start of the procession cultural programs were performed in front of the chariots.  The three deities were carried by the devotees from the temple to the chariots amidst beating of drums and Hare Krishna kirtan. Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, along with important guests and senior Iskcon dignitaries  flagged off the Rath Yatra by pulling the ropes of the chariots amidst the loud chanting of Jay Jagannath.

Devotees who were patiently waiting to get an opportunity to pull the Rath  immediately got into action and enthusiastically started pulling the ropes. The Lord of the universe majestically sitting on the huge chariot thus began travelling through the streets of Kolkata showering his mercy upon thousands of people. 

The roads were bedecked with colourful rangolis. Hundreds of ladies carrying arati plates were sanctifying the pathway by blowing conch shells, sprinkling holy water and throwing flower petals on the road. To welcome the Lord devotees were singing Suswagatam Jagannath, Suswagatam Baladeva, Suswagatam Subhdra.  Throughout the procession devotees were singing, dancing, playing cymbals and mridangas. Many people who had congregated on the way to see the procession could not resist themselves and they too joined the devotees and began dancing and chanting the names of Lord Krishna and Lord Jagannath.  As it was a working day the working people took a short break from their offices and came down to pull the chariots. 

Srila Prabhupada wanted that his books which logically delineates the message of Krishna should be widely distributed.  So there were dozens of small sized carts carrying books accompanied the procession.  Devotees were reaching out to people and were inspiring them to buy the books which has the potential to transform their lives for good.   Hundreds of books were distributed during the journey.

The procession was colourful and lively. The loud but melodious chant of Hare Krishna touched the hearts of thousands of souls.  The three giant chariots travelled through the streets and lanes of Kolkata for around 5 hours and reached TAI Brigade Ground, which is one of the largest open parks in Kolkata, at around 6:30 p.m.

A makeshift Gundicha temple has been constructed at the Brigade Ground and various stalls have been set up around the temple.  The three deities are currently staying in Gundicha temple. Everyday Lord Jagannath is dressed differently to depict his different pastimes. Someday he is dressed as Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan on his left hand, someday he takes the form of Lord Vishnu riding on Garuda to save Gajendra, the elephant, and so on. Lord Jagannath is the Lord of the universe, he is none other than Krishna and is the protector of anyone and everyone who seeks his shelter. 

A beautiful smiling deity of Srila Prabhupada in front of Lord Jagannath wins everyone’s hearts.

A huge chandelier in the center of the temple brightens up the temple.

This year the theme of Rath Yatra is “Empowering the Elderly.” 

India’s great spiritual tradition teaches us to protect the elderly people. One of the most celebrated sons in Indian history is Sravan Kumar who carried his old and blind parents on his shoulders to different places of pilgrimage. But unfortunately as Kali Yuga entered and the society became too materialistic some people stopped taking care of their parents and other elder members of the family.  Elderly men and women who have given their best to the society during their prime needs to be taken care in a best possible way.   In this Rath Yatra Iskcon wanted to highlight the challenges which our elderly friends are facing and also wanted to spread the message that they should be protected and loved. 

An art exhibition was held wherein the artists used their creativity to show different shades of the life of elderly people – their life’s journey, their transition from being an active member of the society to leading a retired life, their struggles & challenges during old age, their vulnerabilities, how the society can come together to bring hope and happiness in their life and how we can enrich our lives through their knowledge and plethora of experience.

Various cultural programs are being held in which children are participating in large numbers. Well known classical dancers are performing different dance forms like bharatanatyam, kathak, kathakali, Manipuri, mohiniyattam and Odissi. Everyday talks are being given by senior Iskcon Sannyasis such as HH Jaypataka Swami Maharaj, HH Bhakti Charu Swami Maharaj, HH Bhakti Purushottam Swami Maharaj and by other senior devotees.

The three chariots standing in the middle of the parade ground is attracting all. 108 bricks have been laid around the chariots and the people especially those who are visiting for the first time are requested to walk over the bricks and while walking they are requested to chant one Hare Krishna Mahamantra as they put their foot on a brick. Thus once they complete the journey they chant 108 mantras.

Thousands throng daily to worship the Lord and participate in various cultural programs.  Mahaprasadam stall,  Govindas counter,  Bhakti Vriksha stall, Iskcon Youth Forum stall, Kids zone, Perfect Question Perfect Answer booth, Book Distribution stall, Matchless Gift shop are also major attraction and large number of people visit there.

Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva and Subhadra Devi are currently enjoying their stay at Gundicha temple and will return back to Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple on 12^th July which is the day of Ulta Rath Yatra. 

Why we distributed Bhagavad Gita on Christmas day?

We decided to celebrate 25^th Dec i.e. the birthday of Jesus Christ by distributing the transcendental teachings of Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.  Jesus Christ is the messenger of God, the son of God. He appeared in this world to free the suffering souls from the miseries of material existence and wanted us all to return to the kingdom of God. And Bhagavad Gita, one of the most sacred and popular literatures of the world, informs us how we can attain liberation from material miseries and return back home back to godhead.

When Srila Prabhupada started disseminating the unadulterated teachings of Gita then it immediately attracted the people all over the world. Be it a Hindu, a Muslim, a Christian or people from any other religion they started appreciating the message of Gita.  “Bhagavad – Gita As It Is”  written by Prabhupada has widely got distributed in almost every country of the world, have got translated in almost all the languages of the world.

Srila Prabhupada had a desire that everyone should read and distribute this literature to as many people as possible.

So we thought that 25^th Dec being a Christmas holiday we should utilize our time in sharing the knowledge of Gita with other people.

We were total 15 devotees and we planned to distribute books at Eco Park, Kolkata. It was estimated that more than 1.5 lakh people will come there on the festive season. We divided the task among ourselves.

Parthasarathi Prabhu, Sayak Prabhu, Ashok Prabhu, Gaurav Prabhu had the responsibility of identifying the place where we could put our table to distribute the books.

Biswa Swaroop Prabhu Prabhu was to collect the books from the Iskcon temple. He then came to my house so that we both can carry together table and other books which I had.

Although we had decided to start distributing books from 1:30 pm onwards but we could start only by 3:45 p.m. It was becoming very difficult to find the venue. Biswa Swaroop Prabhu and I was driving on the road for almost 2 hours searching for the venue.  We had initially thought of doing book distribution at Gate No: 2 of Eco Park but there were barricades everywhere. We then looked for Gate 3, Gate 4 and at Mother’s Wax Museum. Gate 3 and Gate 4 was not a good venue.

Mother’s Wax museum appeared to be a good place but meanwhile the devotees figured out that we can put up our book stall at Gate 1. But before taking the final decision we thought to analyse which would be a better venue – Gate 1 or Mother’s Wax museum.  Biswa Swaroop Prabhu and I were at the Wax museum.  Parthasarathi Prabhu and Sayak Prabhu came from Gate 1 to see the crowd at Wax museum. After short discussion we decided to go to Gate 1 of Eco Park.

So finally after hectic search we put up our book table at Gate 1.  Although the search was tiring but we got immediate reciprocation from Krishna. As soon as we put our table we saw people coming and buying Bhagavad Gita and other Vedic literatures.

Kirtan was playing in the background and devotees especially Ashok Prabhu, Gaurav Prabhu, Sayak Prabhu and Parthasarathi Prabhu were making announcement on mike narrating the glories of Bhagavad Gita, stating how Gita’s wisdom words can transform their lives.

Ashok Prabhu convinced a young boy to buy SSR – Science of Self Realization.  Parthasarathi Prabhu immediately distributed one Bhagavad Gita. Gaurav Prabhu took the books and went directly into the crowds to distribute the books and was able to convince people to buy it. Sayak Prabhu got immediate success and started distributing the books. Swarnavo Prabhu along with his father, Biswa Swaroop Prabhu, also started distributing. Swarnavo Prabhu was able to convince one of his teachers who had come to Eco Park to have Bhagavad Gita. Bijit Prabhu and Parthasarathi Prabhu’s father (HG Chinmoy Gokul Prabhu) also immediately got into the service of distributing the books. Later on Subramaniam Prabhu joined with his wife (Padmalaya mataji) and son, Satyavrat. My parents also joined.  

Service for the pleasure of Krishna has to be always followed by delicious prasadam.

And we had planned about it in advance. Priyanka Sukla mataji had prepared Bhel, Padmalaya mataji had prepared Pakoda, Ashok Prabhu brought sweets. While we were doing book distribution my wife (Kanchana Madhavi) was busy preparing Veg Biryani. We had thought after hectic day of service devotees   should not go back home to cook dinner.

I went to my house with Biswa Swaroop Prabhu to pick my wife and of course prasadam. We got terribly stuck in traffic jam. My house is just 2.5 km from Eco Park but it took almost 1 hour to reach my house. We immediately picked the prasadam and left for the venue.

It was already 7:30 p.m. but devotees were still enthusiastically distributing the books.  Now we thought that everyone should take prasadam.  So everyone sat together to relish the delicious prasadam. It was a spiritual picnic for all of us.

My wife who was at home cooking immediately began distributing the books. And she was able to inspire people to take Bhagavad Gita. One lady was eager to take the books but her husband was too adamant so she gave her at discounted rate.

This we observed that people are ready to spend their money in gratifying their senses, in watching non sensical movies, eating in restaurants but they feel great pain in spending few bucks to buy the sacred books. This is just one time purchase but it can transform their lives forever.

But it is also true that some are very eager to take the books. As a student of Gita and as follower of Srila Prabhupada we just have to keep on trying.

It was a great day for all of us. It was the best way to absorb ourselves in service of the Lord and serve the humanity by gifting them Bhagavad Gita which has transformed the lives of millions of people since time immemorial.