Author Archives: Sankirtana das, USA

Mahabharata & Our Generational Challenge – 1 of 2
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

In 2012-13, as I was bringing my book – Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest – to completion, I kept asking myself: what about the Mahabharata would be most relevant to today’s readers.  The book has endured for thousands of years. It’s revered by millions of Hindus all over the world. But what does it have to say to anyone else?  Is Mahabharata just for Hindus or does it have a place in world literature, or in the very fabric of our diverse cultures?

The German poet Goethe coined the phrase “world literature” in 1827, and he used it in the context of books transcending national themes.  To put it more emphatically, it means literature that speaks to all peoples. Mahabharata is the first of books. The Dharma teachings, the responsibilities of leadership, and warnings of the impending Kali-yuga (our age of darkness) are described as the five thousand year old epic unfolds.  It’s not only the first of books, but it’s also the first that can be said to be in the class of world literature. Mahabharata belongs to all of us.

Why? The book itself tells us that what is not found within its pages is found nowhere else. That’s a bold claim to make. Plato commented on two books we consider classical literature – Iliad and The Odyssey. At the time of Plato, those classics were already seven hundred years old. He regarded the books as beautiful poetry and great stories. But he lamented: Where was the philosophy and the moral standards to help guide people to live better lives?  

Plato would have liked the Mahabharata. It’s not only good poetry and a great story, but Mahabharata is also the embodiment of dharma.  The book exists just to help us understand what is dharma or, in other words, what is  our collective moral compass.  When we understand the Dharma we can live a life of wellness. That means we live in a balance of both the spiritual and the material. In this way, both the individual and society as a whole prospers.

For reviews  and more info on my book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest visit: www.Mahabharata-Project.com

Someones’ World Changes
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

This remarkable photo of Matador Torero Alvaro Munera marks the end of his career. When this gentle bull would not attack him, even after being provoked with sharp stakes, Munera collapsed in remorse. He became an avid opponent of bullfights. The fearless bull demonstrates that we don’t have to be disturbed by the provocations of the material energy. And on the other hand, the bull also shows us that it just takes one little act of compassion to help give someone a new perspective and  turn their life around.

Please visit  www.Mahabharata-Project.com for reviews & info on my recently published book – Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest

The Power of Story (3)
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

The storyteller has to be a jack of all trades. You are the script writer, the director and the actor. As such, you have to make a variety of decisions, beginning with choosing a story for your repertoire.  Then, how is your story is going to begin and how is it going to conclude. You have to be very clear on that. Know exactly what note your story is going to end on. The fun part is getting from point A to point B. That’s when you take the audience on a little journey. You can weave this way and that, sharing the philosophy here and there. Of course, you should know your story inside and out. Then only can you present the story and make adjustments based on the nature of your audience and how much time you have.
You also have to decide on what the story’s focus. What’s your story going to convey?  Also, in the hands of different speakers, a story can sound and feel totality different.  The same story will even take on different meanings or evoke laugher at a place where an audience has never laughed before. Very often, all these elements fall in place over time.  You can’t rush it.  Through repeated tellings, deeper levels of the story, and way to share the story, open up. Very often these insights emerge from the responses of your audience. An audience can tell you a lot about how to improve your story. Prabhupada also comments, “Krishna will give the intelligence how to execute. Strictly adhere to Krishna’s instructions and He’ll give intelligence how to execute them from within your heart.” The thing is, a good storyteller is first of all a good listener.

See www.Mahabharata-Project.comfor info and reviews of my book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest –  a ‘cinematic’ rendition of India’s ancient epic.  

The Power of Story (2)
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

In a letter of March 18, 1971 Prabhupada writes, “So when they will read Krsna book, certainly they will enjoy this as a story or as philosophy, morality, religion, etc. and gradually they will become perfect in Krsna consciousness.”
Just like Prabhupada in his presentation of Krsna Book, the idea behind storytelling is to weave story and philosophy together to make it both an entertaining and enlightening experience for the reader. The storyteller, according to the audience, has to determine the right mix of story and philosophy. What would be the appropriate balance for your audience to be engaged. See what is the major point of the story. Look for one or two additional points.
Storytelling is not a platform to convince the listener. Rather, we want the listener to open their minds and get absorbed in the dynamics of the story and  “enjoy” the story. The listener should walk away with a satisfying experience. Prabhupada concludes that  “gradually they will become perfect in Krsna consciousness.” 

See www.Mahabharata-Project.com  for reviews and info about my recently published Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest. 


The Power of Story (1)
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Srila Prabhupada explains in the Krsna Book: “The conditioned soul has a natural aptitude to hear about other conditioned souls in the form of fiction, drama and novel. That inclination to hear something about others may be utilized  in hearing the pastimes of the Lord.”  Storytelling is an age old tool in all cultures around the world.  Actually it is both a technology and art form in itself.  Through the stories people learn about the history of their culture. Stories are the perfect way to understand what is right and wrong, what it means to be good or bad, how to approach life’s obstacles,  and what are the consequences of our actions. Stories are for the young and old, the rich and the poor, the learned and unlearned. Everyone will delight a story well told. Especially in our Vedic tradition we are so close to stories that we take them for granted. Sukadev Goswami shares stories of Krishna’s incarnations with Maharaja Pariksit. Valmiki shares the stories of Lord Rama. Vyasadev shares the stories of Mahabharata. And Srila Prabhupada shares many stories both scriptural and non-scriptural in offering a variety of lessons and insights. 

To spread Krishna Consciousness in todays’ climate, it is imperative for each of us to understand the power of story. In Srimad Bhagavatam 3:13:48 Prabhupada writes, “Every one of us is fond of hearing some wonderful narration, but most stories are neither auspicious nor worth hearing because they are of the inferior quality of material nature. Every living entity is of superior quality, spirit soul, and nothing material can be auspicious for him. Intelligent persons should therefore hear personally and cause others to hear the descriptive narrations of the Lord’s activities, for that will destroy the pangs of material existence. Out of His causeless mercy only, the Lord comes to this earth and leaves behind His merciful activities so that the devotees may derive transcendental benefit.”

Look for more about the power of story later.

And please visit www.Mahabharata-Project.com  about Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest, my cinematic rendition of India’s ancient history. Thanks.

A Direction for the 50th
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

I started to write an appeal to devotees to help generate an interest in my recently published book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest. I knew that I needed the help and blessings of all the devotees in order to create a tipping point that would spark a general interest in the book and the points it raises.

In looking at the direction I wanted to take with my book, I realized there is a broader issue for our society to look at.  As devotees, we always want to provide the answers to societies ills. But more importantly, we must first formulate the right questions for people to consider. In other words, how do we create buzz?  What type of conversations can we initiate which will be of interest and relevancy to the greater society?

Of course,  devotees around the world are making remarkable impacts every day. Now, as we approach the 50th, we need to focus on and broaden our influence in these areas, such as: kirtana, vegetarianism and prasadam distribution, yoga, the Hindu community, academia, promoting books, the media, Mayapur, festivals and cultural events which appeal to the public,  giving people an understanding of what is real leadership, what is dharma, and to appreciate Srila Prabhupada’s Herculean efforts to make Krishna Consciousness available all over the world.

By the 50th I mean both the 50thanniversary  of Srila Prabhupada’s journey to America and the founding of ISKCON.  Because, pardon my bluntness, the story and achievements of an individual always trumps that of an organization totting it’s own horn. 2015 has to be as important as 2016.  They are both part of the same story. We should take thorough advantage of both of these years.  (I’m sorry I don’t remember where, but I recently read a statement on a site that Prabhupada’s stepping off the Jaladutta onto the Boston pier was the most monumental event of the 20thcentury.)

I keep reading about meetings and conferences devotees have, but how are they communicating the planning and inspiring the rest of the Society? Is the planning inclusive? The main thing, since this is only a year way, is that right now for all devotees to be in the conversation about in the 50th  and to develop and promote individual and temple initiatives on the local level.

Fortunately, the dust has settled on much of the controversy that has plagued our Movement for the past 25 years. We can move forward with confidence. At this time let all lovers of the Holy Name join forces and move forward on the things we can agree upon. Let’s have a little experiment.  Let devotees put away their differences for three years and see what happens. This mood of cooperation would be very pleasing to Srila Prabhupada and would make a wonderful collective gift for him for the 50th.  We all need to be involved.  

Amaze yourself. Each day, move a little beyond what you think you can do.  Let’s use the 50thto catapult Krishna Consciousness into the 21th Century.

And by the way, please visit my site about the book www.Mahabharata-Project.com   Thanks.

Tips On Writing
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

I begin my book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest with three quick prologues. What the heck is a prologue for anyway? And three? What’s with that?

After the book’s introduction (if it has one), your story begins. But before (pro – Greek) the story gets underway (lego – the telling) , do you want to drop in a prologue? The prologue might provide clues as to the theme of the book or set up the mood or describe events that happen before the main story begins to anticipate the underlying conflict of the story or might introduce one of the main characters in an offbeat way. And that’s why I have three.

Prologues do those things and more. A prologue could even be like the coming attractions and poise questions and situations to titillate the reader, or it could provide a predicament which is then totally dropped, only to surface again much later in the book. You have to figure out if your book warrants a prologue and how to use it to your best advantage.

Thoughts On The New Year
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

The older you get the faster time goes. When I was a kid, it was different. I remember sitting in my third grade class watching the clock. It was just after one o’clock and school let out at three. I thought that was an awfully long time to wait. And the summer breaks seemed joyously forever. The whole summer was mine. No morning rush to school. No home work. No anxiety ridden tests. Just my time! And who could even think about high school graduation? That was eons away.
And suddenly I found myself graduating from college. And soon after, getting married. And next came kids. Still, age 40 seemed long away. And when I reached 40, 50 was like being old. But when I got to 50 it wasn’t so bad at all. I recalibrated 60 as old. Now I’m way past 60, and 70 doesn’t seem so bad.

One year uncreasingly tumbles into the next. Soon decades and centuries become insignificant. Millenniums are but a drop in eternal time. Events, generations, and history itself unfolds like some bizarre, fast forward film. We are powerless to stop it. Our health and fortunes and all we hold dear can evaporate in an instant. And I am reminded of the story of the ‘hairy sage.’

There once was a sage who lived by the banks of the Ganges River. He spent much of his time in meditation and he understood the difference between that which is ‘sat’ (eternal) and that which is ‘asat’ (temporary). He had been destined to live until all the hairs on his chest fell off. He is described as a ‘hairy’ sage. The thing is – only a single hair fell off during a day of Brahma (which is millions upon millions of years). So this sage was going to live for an awfully long time. One day he was asked, “Why don’t you build yourself a nice home?” The sage replied, “Why should I bother? I’m only here temporarily.”

Visit www.Mahabharata-Project.com for reviews and info about my new book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest.

The First 50th
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

IMHO, as ISKCON makes plans for 2016, equal attention should be paid to the 50th anniversary of Prabhupada’s momentous journey to the West in 2015. In the public eye, the story of individual effort always trumps the story of an organization.  People can certainly make a more visceral connection with Srila Prabhupada since they would be natural inspired by a his struggle against great odds.  (Look at how the world has responded to the story of Nelson Mandela) And now especially as baby boomers head into their senior years (myself included), Prabhupada’s accomplishments will seem even greater. His is an important story to honor and to share.

To win the hearts of people in general one has to understand the potency of STORY. STORY is a valuable tool.  This has been my personal experience as a professional storyteller and workshop leader for over 25 years.

And Prabhupada’s is a remarkable story.  He came with practically nothing save for the three volumes of first canto of Srimad Bhagavatam he had prepared for the West.  He hitched a ride on a freighter, braved a month long voyage and struggled through a New York winter to present an ancient and venerable teaching to the West. And sociologically speaking, he came at a remarkable time when young people in the West were dissatisfied with materialistic culture and rejected the unprecedented wealth and education available to them.

This is the time for devotees to develop  projects as an offering for Srila Prabhupada in 2015.   I know Yadubara is doing a film and you may want to support that if you don’t have time to develop a project of your own.  But there should in fact be hundreds and even thousands of events and projects manifested in 2015 as a way to individually and collectively honor Srila Prabhupada for his selfless and untiring efforts to help humankind.

See www.Mahabharata-Project.comabout my new book – Free shipping in Dec.

The Tree of Devotion
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

A couple of days ago a 12 ton, 76 feet high Norway Spruce at Rockefeller Center in NYC  lit up with 45,000 lights.  The tree lighting event at Rockefeller Center started in 1933.  But the  Christmas tree event goes back to when it was introduced to English high society by Prince Albert who put up an evergreen for the holidays in Windsor Castle in 1841. It had been a pre Christian German symbol, and most Christians at that time loathed the idea of connecting the tree with Christmas. But within 10 years the fanciful custom took root in England and by the end of the 1800’s it also become an established tradition in America with Woolworths stores selling Christmas tree decorations and all.

The tree seems to be a universal symbol in religious and cultural traditions around the world. In Judaism  the Torah is referred to as the Tree of Life. The Torah is likened to the branches of a great tree spreading into the sphere of our lives, and it calls upon us to make every act an act for God.

In Buddhism the Buddha attained enlightenment sitting beneath a tree. At one point in his meditation when he was assailed by raging storms and other strange occurrences, a divine serpent arose from the roots of the Bodhi tree to protect him.

Nearly a thousand years ago on this continent, Deganawidah, known as the Peace Maker, called for a great council by the shores of Lake Onondaga. There, he carefully uprooted a Pine tree and urged all of the warriors from the gathered tribes to throw their weapons into the hollow of the earth. Then the tree was replanted over the weapons. The tree (the Tree of the Long Leaves) became known as the Tree of Peace. Thus the Great Peace was declared and the five nations of the Iroquois was established.

500 years ago Caitanya Mahaprabhu implored us to be as tolerant as the tree which patiently endures the rain and cold and heat. Another time, Caitanya  declared to his followers “As a large fig tree bears fruit all over its body, the tree of devotion to Krishna also bears fruit, and when that fruit ripens it becomes as sweet as nectar. All the wealth in the world cannot purchase even one such fruit of devotion. I request everyone to accept this Krishna consciousness and take it everywhere. I am the only gardener. How can I  act alone? How many places can I go? How many fruits can I pick and distribute?  It is certainly  very difficult for Me, alone. So all of you must take this fruit of loving devotion to God and  give it away freely to all people, in all directions, all over the world. Do not consider who is fit or unfit, whether people ask for it or not. Let people eat these fruits and become free from old age and death.”

Symbols of spirituality and peace from whatever tradition can surely be revered by all.

FREE shipping in Dec on my new book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest

281 pgs/6X9/$16   -1 Book – $16; 2 Books – $32; 3 Books – ONLY $45; 5 Books ONLY $70 – all prices include shipping. For reviews and info and more –

Tips On Writing – The Prologue
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

I begin Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest with three quick prologues. What the heck is a prologue for anyway? And three? What’s with that?

After the book’s introduction, your story begins. But before (pro – Greek) the story gets underway (lego – the telling) , do you want to drop in a prologue? The prologue might provide clues as to the theme of the book  or set up the mood or describe events that happen before the main story begins,  to anticipate the underlying conflict of the story or might introduce one of the main characters in an offbeat way. And that’s why I have three.

Prologues do those things and more.  Basically, the prologue sets up the mood.  (check the first sentence of my first prologue).  A prologue could even be like the coming attractions and poise questions and situations to titillate the reader,  or it could  provide a predicament which is then totally dropped, only to surface again much later in the book. You have to figure out if your book warrants a prologue and how to use it to your best advantage.  To see my prologues go to www.Mahabharata-Project.com to the Sample page.

Actually, you would do me a great favor if you went to the site, even if you were there before. In four months, if you googled Mahabharata, my site has jumped from page 15 to page 3. Now it’s been hovering between pages 2 and 3 for the last month. I’m trying to boast it to page ONE on google.   I thank you for your help.

Ys, Sankirtana das

More Tips On Writing
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

“In the late summer of that year we lived in a house in a village that looked across the river and the plain to the mountains.”  – Hemingway’s first sentence of  A Farewell to Arms (1929)

We should never lose sight that stories are constructed with words and sentences. Good writing not only conveys an image, advances the story, but also has  elements of poetry and symmetry.  In the above sentence, Hemingway offers us not only the beginning of a story, but  alliteration (late, lived, looked), consonance at the end of words (summer, year river),  and repetition (in a house in a village).  Having been involved in theater and the spoken word for so many years, the selection of words are important to me, not just by what they mean, but also by how they sound and their relation to other words in a sentence.  I try to think of the words to my stories as being spoken.  After all, a finely designed sentence and the texture of words offers another dimension to the reading.  The words take flight.  They are active. The listener will bathe in a cascade of refreshing words.

* * * * *

I read time and again many authors have the habit of  keeping books that inspire them close at hand while writing their own book. It seems it’s an open secret: read books that will jump start the way you want to use words and structure sentences and that will help you move your writing in the direction you want.

* * * * *

One of the best ways to edit yourself is to read the text aloud, stopping to make notations when something doesn’t sound right. Also, always have a good dictionary and thesaurus on hand, for as Mark Twain said, ‘The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.’

Check out site below for more Tips On Writing

At this time of year people are naturally thinking about gifts for the holidays. FREE shipping in USA for my book, Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest has been extended until the end of the year. 1 Book – $16; 2 Books – $32; 3 Books – ONLY $45; 5 Books ONLY $70] For more info and Tips On Writing check out my site www.Mahabharata-Project.com  where you can find a link to order through Paypal OR you can order directly from me at story108@juno.com

One Step Closer
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Without being didactic, my recently published Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest offers an authentic Vaisnava perspective in the understanding of who Krishna is, of dharma, of real leadership qualities, and of the foreboding nature of our age, the Kali-yuga. All this as the story  moves steadily forward, and as the tension builds,  and all in under 280 pages (a comfortable read for a college or even high school course).

My hope is that MahaTEQ  will eventually replace William Buck’s ambiguous rendition that so many professors are accustomed to using. To bring this goal one step closer, I am asking for your help. 

In the last five months, if you googled Mahabharata, my site has jumped from page 15 to page 3. Buck’s book is on page ONE. My first step was to write a good piece of literature; the second was to have the book’s back cover adorned with quotes by professors, and now the third (but not final stage) is to get more visibility on google. I humbly request that you visit my site –    www.Mahabharata-Project.com    – to help  achieve this next step and bring it up to page one next to Buck.

It’s that simple. THANKS!

Mahabharata On the Move
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest, has received a tremendous response from readers, including great endorsements from professors, some of whom plan to use the book in their classrooms. As you may know, there is much controversy in academia  as to who Sri Krishna is and His role in the Mahabharata.  
In MahaTEQ I bring to bear my life’s work in theater and storytelling and tell the story in a cinematic, fascinating and thought provoking way.Without being didactic, the book offers an authentic Vaisnava perspective in the understanding of who Krishna is, of dharma, of real leadership qualities, and of the foreboding nature of our age, the Kali-yuga. All this as the story moves steadily forward, and in under 280 pages (a comfortable read for a college or even high school course).
My hope is that MahaTEQ  will eventually replace William Buck’s ambiguous rendition that so many professors are accustomed to using and that the book will be used in discussion groups, for dramatic readings, and ultimately as the basis for a film. This is what the Mahabharata Project is about.   

In this respect, I ask the help of the devotees. We are upon the season for gift giving and MahaTEQ would make a great gift for scholars, professors or for those special people you are cultivating. I request that you get copies for  these contacts or  encourage them to order a copy themselves.

I have a sale of MahaTEQ going on now which I am extending until the end of the year.  If you happen to be coming to New Vrindaban the book is only $11 (cover price $16). To read reviews or order copies (Free shipping) through Paypal go to www.Mahabharata-Project.com   OR  contact me directly at story108@juno.com

Thank you.  


Word Is Out
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

In the last two months since publication the response to my new book, Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest  has taken off. Word is getting around, and  I have even gotten orders from Ireland and Australia (from the world wide storytelling community which I am involved in) where they are paying as much for the shipping as they are for the book itself.  The verdict is that it’s a great read whether you’re familiar with the story or not.

 Sacinandana Swami had this to say –

“Wonderful!  Your storytelling art – which quickly gets to the essence of everything – has opened  the world of Mahabharata to me , for it has opened up the world of the feelings and emotions of Mahabharata.” 

At this time of year people are naturally thinking about gifts for the holidays. This month I am offering FREE shipping in USA for all orders placed in November. [adjusted the prices at my site for November: 1 Book – $16;    2 Books – $32;    3 Books – ONLY $45;  5 Books ONLY $70] For more info check out my site www.Mahabharata-Project.com  where you can order through Paypal OR order directly from me at story108@juno.com

Tips On Writing
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

In Spark – a book about creativity by Julie Burstein, the painter Chuck Close is quoted: “Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work.”

Woody Allen puts it this way: “Eighty percent of success is showing up.”

And Neil Gaiman: “You have to write when you’re not inspired. And you have to write the scenes that don’t inspire you. And the weird thing is that six months later, a year later, you’ll look back at them and you can’t remember which scenes you wrote when you were inspired and which scenes you just wrote because they had to be written next.”

It’s so true. Some scenes or characters may not be easy to approach. You hesitate  because you’re afraid that it won’t come out right and you’ll be exposed as a fool.  But you just have to do the work and  start writing. Allow one thought to lead to another and for one sentence to lead to another. The next day much of it looks like crap. But that’s what I like about writing: you get a second chance and a third chance and a forth chance if you want it. But the writer has to take advantage of those new chances. Don’t depend on the muse. Study your craft.

For more On Writing visit my site www.Mahabharata-Project.com

Tips On Writing
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Several years back  I was  attracted by this two full page ad in the NYT Book Review section highlighting two pages of a new book’s opening. It was The Man From Beijing, an international mystery thriller. I had thought of opening the Mahabharata like a mystery story.   Those two provocative and well chosen pages were a powerful hook, although it turned out they weren’t  the book’s very opening pages. I got the book and it promised to be a powerhouse, as was the premise of the book, and the flashbacks. But after mid way,  the story began to unravel as the author moved away from the basic premise.

Henning Mankell is one of Sweden’s great writers, so it was alarming to see such a potentially good story fall flat on it’s face. The author tried to take the story where it really didn’t have to go. He lost momentum in the process.  If Mankill couldn’t get a handle on his story, how was I going to do it with the vast Mahabharata. Later, I found the reviewers and readers had a mixed response to his book.  A lot of people still seemed to like the book because it was from Mankill. Unfortunately, I did not have a dedicated following like he did.

For me, however, the lesson was  simple. That is, to stick to the premise of your story. Premise means the purpose, the idea, the essential message or meaning of the story. The basic truth of the story.  The premise should be a compass for the author. It may take a while working with the story to begin to fully define and  understand your premise. It’s easy to start a story. You might have one definite idea or a jumble of ideas and scenes. But in the excitement, you can’t let that jumble carry you away, which it did with The Man From Beijing which got into superfluous passages and scenes.  Once you find it,  keep your eye on  the premise. Don’t lose sight of it.  As a writer, that’s what you have to serve.

For more tips see www.Mahabharata-Project.com  – On Writing
Coming in November – Free Shipping on my book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest

TIPS ON WRITING
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Lajos Egri, author of The Art of Dramatic Writing, tells us “A novel, play, or any type of writing,  really is a crisis from beginning to end growing to its necessary conclusion.”  So the problems are piling up for the hero or protagonist.  How do they pile up and where are they coming from? That’s up to you, the writer. 

The Vedas explain our problems fall into three categories:  adhiatmik, adhidaivik, and adhibautik. The first are problems which stem from the body or the mind – stories that deal with physical handicaps or emotional or mental difficulties. The second are problems from natural occurrences – hurricanes, tsunamis,  tornadoes, earthquakes, volcanoes (the 90’s especially offered up a slew of such films). The last category are problems caused by other living beings, most likely, but not limited to, human beings. You need to have a clear understanding of what type of problems threaten the protagonist.

Earlier I mentioned that the writer needs to clearly know what the protagonist wants. And the things standing in  the way of what he /she wants helps build the tension or drama. But identifying the problem first comes at the story from another angle. Maybe your character doesn’t  want anything. Maybe they don’t have a problem. Maybe he/she is just enjoying the day. Maybe he’s a retired cop who just wants to be left alone. Maybe he/she is on a cruise ship enjoying a well earned vacation. Then disaster strikes. Have an idea what problems the protagonist is going to come up against. Maybe you’ll even find more once you delve into the writing of your story.

Usually the problems of the protagonist should get more difficult  and mount up as the story goes on. Have fun. This is a chance for the writer to indulge in sadistic tendencies. Bring on the problems! Have your character crawl in the dirt. The writer can be merciful or unrelenting. Of course, when a writer gets really sadistic, that’s called a horror story.    

I like Egri’s words  “. . . growing to its necessary conclusion.” That means the ending can’t erratically emerge out of nowhere. The writer is bound by the story he/she is telling and the ending is formed in the context of that story.

To see more TIPS ON WRITING go to 

www.Mahabharata-Project.com

Mahabharata – The Story Begins 2 0f 2
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

My new book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest reads like you’re watching a movie and begins with short scenes in rapid succession to introduce many of the characters, to foreshadow events and to gradually set up the main storyline. This continues throughout the first and second chapters. The first seven or so pages conclude with this second installment. 

Check out the reviews and project at

Chapter 1  

The Vow

“Your sons and their forces are ready,” Sanjaya told the blind king. “As ready as they’ll ever be.”  

King Dhritarastra listened with both expectancy and regret, hovering in a world of his own, molded of past and future. If only he had listened to Vidura, it would not have come to this.  He feared for his sons, the Kauravas.  What would happen to them now? If he could, he would make Duryodhan give back all the land he had taken from the Pandavas. But of all his sons, Duryodhan had always been beyond his control. Surely, Providence would now have its way.

Sanjaya, the king’s aid and confidant, sat in the royal palace at Hastinapura by his side.  Though Sanjaya’s gaze was drawn within, he looked far beyond the city’s streets and walls. With Vyasa’s gift of mystic vision, he beheld the valley of Kurukshetra over a hundred miles away. There, as the two armies prepared for battle, Sanjaya could observe every aspect and scan every detail. He could hear any conversation and even know someone’s thoughts.

“This is quite unusual,” Sanjaya continued, and he paused in disbelief.

Dhritarastra impatiently stamped his jeweled cane for attention.  “What is it?” He insisted on knowing.

 “Yudhisthira has stepped off his chariot. He proceeds across the valley on foot and unarmed toward your sons.”

“Unarmed?  Does he mean to seek a truce or to surrender?”  Dhritarastra inquired. His mind hoped against hope. Could there still be time for reconciliation, for peace?

The morning air was crisp. Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, walked toward the expanse of Kaurava warriors and their allies. The army Yudhisthira beheld far outnumbered his own.  In the distant ranks, amid his sworn enemies, he spied Bhismadev’s splendid chariot, decorated with many weapons. He headed straight for it. Bhismadev was the respected Grandsire of the dynasty, the eldest and wisest. He was also Yudhisthira’s ever well-wisher and like a father to him. Even now Bhismadev observed the solitary figure with pride. Yudhisthira took each step with such ease and grace. Bhismadev knew the last thing Yudhisthira wanted was this fight. 

Bhismadev was surrounded by men impatient for battle, for blood and glory, for the sweet taste of victory.  Duryodhan, Dushasana, Karna, Sakuni, and Ashwattama. They had waited years for this moment.  The horses drawing their chariots whinnied in anticipation. The nobles snickered upon seeing Yudhisthira approach. Maybe this would be easier than they thought. Had Yudhisthira lost his nerve when he saw the sight of their intimidating forces? After all, he had retreated to the forest to spend thirteen years in exile without a word of complaint.

 Bhismadev’s mind drifted away from the moment at hand and settled into the past. How had he let it come to this, a civil war that would rip apart this exalted Kuru dynasty? It was the one thing he sought all his life to avoid. His mind wandered back to his youth, and to his father, King Santanu.

*  *  *  *  *

Santanu followed the maiden from the river to the far end of the village. She was of slender waist and golden skin, but above all, a remarkable fragrance emanated from her being.  Santanu could not take his eyes off her. Actually, he could have closed his eyes and followed her just by her enchanting scent.  He would do anything to have her as his wife. She looked back at the king riding upon his silver-encrusted chariot. She welcomed his unmoving gaze. This was the man and the world she would have. She smiled at Santanu and entered the house of her father, the chief of the fishermen. 

*  *  *  *  *

King Santanu returned from his trip markedly sullen. No matter how much he tried, he could not hide his mood from his son. He was pensive for days afterwards. Time and again, Bhismadev tried to find out what weighed upon his father’s mind. But Santanu only looked down and remained silent to all of his inquiries. Santanu loved his son. Bhismadev was the only surviving child born of Santanu and the goddess Ganga – the Ganges River personified. In his childhood, Bhismadev received his education and training from the Celestials, and especially from the sage Vasistha, in the heavenly regions from where Ganga had come. After his multifaceted education, Ganga brought the boy back to Earth to reside with his father. All the citizens knew this boy as Gangadatta – Son of Ganga – and they considered him the most blessed and fortunate person to walk the earth.

The king was unabashedly proud of Bhismadev and he continued to groom the youth with utmost care to become the future lord of the Kuru dynasty.  In turn, Bhismadev loved his father, and as a faithful son, he would do anything and go to any length to ensure his father’s happiness. 

Bhismadev privately questioned the king’s chariot driver about his recent excursions. When he informed the youth the king had lingered at the village of the fishermen, Bhismadev hastily proceeded there.

*  *  *  *  *

“Yes, your father came here seeking the hand of my daughter, Satyavati, in marriage,” explained the fisherman curtly. He eyed the young man suspiciously. Had he come to make trouble for him and the village?

After a moment of strained silence, Bhismadev inquired further. “And what happened?”

“I told your father, the king, my terms for marriage.” The fisherman paused again to gauge the youth’s response and continued. “He can marry my daughter with the condition that her children must ascend to the throne and inherit the kingdom.”

Bhismadev had not expected something like this, but now he understood the reason for his father’s despondency. He considered the proposal and what it meant to the well-being of his father.

“If that’s all you’re worried about,” he said rather nonchalantly, “I promise you here and now, and I will swear it before anyone you wish to bring forth as witnesses, that I relinquish all rights to the royal throne.”

 “This is indeed a generous offer,” said the fisherman,  “but it is not enough.”

“Not enough!” Bhismadev’s voice trembled with anger.

The fisherman continued cautiously. “Please. Let me explain. You’re a handsome and courageous young man. In due course, you’ll marry a woman worthy of you. In the future, you’ll have children, and when they grow up, your children will become envious of my daughter’s children. Your children will certainly feel they have been cheated out of a throne that is rightfully theirs. Their enmity would rip apart the dynasty and lead to a war that would only threaten to destroy this great kingdom.”

Understanding the human condition even in his youth, Bhismadev conceded, “It’s a point well made. Therefore, for the sake of my father’s happiness, and to preserve peace in the future, I make a vow to never marry and to never have children. I make a vow of lifelong celibacy.”

When Bhismadev spoke these words, a thunderous applause was heard from the heavens and flower petals fell from the sky. The Celestials were amazed one of their own would make such a vow.

When Bhismadev returned home with his father’s bride, Santanu was overwhelmed with happiness. The king was so grateful toward his son, he summoned all the power at his command to give Bhismadev a supreme benediction: he could choose the moment of his death. 

Mahabharata – The Story Begins – 1 of 2
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

My new book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest reads like you’re watching a movie and begins with short scenes in rapid succession to introduce many of the characters, to foreshadow events and to gradually set up the main storyline. This continues throughout the first and second chapters. Here are the first seven or so pages below and in second installment. 

Check out the reviews and project at
Prologues


One/ Endangered

Bhumi, the Earth goddess, soared heavenward, beyond the Moon and the Sun and through the starry Milky Way, up and up, all the way to Brahmaloka, the planet of Lord Brahma, the topmost Celestial. Her steps quickened as she ascended the grand, crystal stairway and entered his ethereal, multi-domed palace with its magnificent, stained-glass windows. As she knelt before the four-headed one, the grief she carried in her heart gave way and tears flowed from her eyes.

“O Brahma, born of a lotus from Vishnu’s navel, you bear all things in this world. Please hear me. The Earth, like a small craft precariously adrift at sea, has become burdened by the military might of wicked men. It seems the Asuras, the demoniac forces, wish to seize control of my world. In the guise of royalty, and driven by insatiable greed, they ravage the Earth. No one can live in peace. The people, the animals, the birds and the land suffer terrible injustices. I implore you. Something must be done!”

Alarmed by her distress, yet sustained by inner calm, Brahma rose and reached out his hand. “Come with me, my child.” Together they at once set out for Svetadvipa, Lord Vishnu’s abode in this material universe. On their journey they were joined by Lord Shiva and the various gods of universal affairs: the thousand-eyed Indra, god of rain and king of Celestials; the wind-god Vayu ; Agni, the fire-god; Surya, the sun-god; the water-god Varuna, and many other Celestials. Arriving at Svetadvipa, they patiently waited on the shores of its milk ocean. Frothy waves lapped the shoreline laden with emeralds, diamonds, rubies and gems. The Celestials appealed to Vishnu, the God of gods. The crimson sky resounded with their prayers. But no response came from the Lord. Their prayers were met only by the sound of the waves crashing on that pristine beach. Their hearts were troubled by His silence. Why did not the all-compassionate Vishnu respond? At that moment, the Celestials experienced the anxiety and sufferings of those on Earth, and they understood Bhumi’s plight and were humbled.

Vishnu channeled His message into the heart of Brahma who in turn revealed it to the gods. “The Lord of lords will descend to the Earth, into the realm of man, to alleviate the anguish created by the Asura kings and to counteract their military might. Many of His close friends and servants will also descend to assist Him, and He wishes you Celestials should assist them.”

Two/ The Stolen Cow

She had to have it.

The kamadhenu cow held extraordinary powers. A cow of plenty, one that could fulfill all wishes. Whoever drank her milk would remain youthful for thousands of years. The cow, however, belonged to Vasistha, a sage who resided among the Celestials.

“Please get her for me,” she begged her husband.

“You should not desire that which belongs to another,” he chided her.

“It’s not for me, my love. It’s for a friend who is in need of the cow’s powers. My dear husband, please.” She touched his cheek. “It will not at all be difficult for you and your brothers. You are all great heroes. And Vasistha’s hermitage is nearby. Please, Dyu. For me.”

Dyu was one of the eight Vasus – the Shining Ones, protectors of Indra’s celestial court. Dyu called the Vasus together and they quickly arrived at the hermitage of Vasistha, deep in the forest. They were cautious, and not wanting a confrontation with the powerful, mystic sage, made sure to take the cow in his absence.

Vasistha returned shortly after they left. He knew something was amiss and quickly searched the nearby meadows where the kamadhenu usually roamed. The cow was gone. To locate her, he entered samadhi, a deep meditation, and engaged the energies of the sun, clouds, trees, and the earth itself. Sitting in stillness, he projected his astral body in search of the cow and her abductors.

The skies darkened and fierce winds began to blow. The Vasus hurried along the path with their prize. They had gone some distance when a towering figure of the sage loomed before them, blocking their way.

“You dare take my kamadhenu! What insolence! I shall curse you all!”

Lightning streaked across the sky as the earth shook. The once brave Vasus fell to their knees. “Please, spare us!” they cried. Thunder boomed above the trees. Branches and leaves fell all around them.

“None of you are fit to reside in the heavens. As punishment for your reckless act, you shall take birth on the Earth for one lifetime.”

“A lifetime on Earth!” The Vasus were aghast. “No, please don’t do this to us. Be merciful. Anything else.”

Vasistha paused to reconsider. “The curse has passed my lips and cannot be revoked. You must be born on Earth. But, if you can find a way to shorten your lives, you may return to the celestial realms quickly. But not Dyu. Dyu, you are the instigator of the group, and for your misdeed you will spend a long life on Earth. So be it.”

Three/ Krishna Tells a Story

All was quiet. The night sky blanketed the valley. The stars sparkled, vying for attention.

Krishna pondered, “Can truth ever undermine Dharma? Or can a lie ever be preferable to the truth in upholding Dharma?”

Yudhisthira responded with a question. “But is not a lie under any circumstances still a lie?”

“My friend, morality might not be as easy to understand as you think. I’ll tell you a story:

“In the forest there lived a sage by the name of Kausika who took great pride in always telling the truth. He was known far and wide for this unwavering quality. One morning, when he sat outside his hut, three men went rushing past and bound into the thick woods. Shortly, a murderous gang came in search of the three men. Knowing he would never tell a lie, they asked the sage, “Which way did they go?” Kausika told them exactly where the men went. The gang took off in pursuit. They caught the three men and robbed and killed them.

“Kausika thought by telling the truth he had protected Dharma, but it led to the deaths of three travelers. In truth, he was very foolish and unable to discern the subtleties of Dharma. Dharma may point the way for moral behavior, but that doesn’t mean we should suspend our judgment when danger arises. At times, as in this story, truth may harm Dharma and falsehood may uphold Dharma. The wise men say Dharma protects us and sustains us. But we must also use our intelligence to understand the best course of action and protect Dharma.”

False Propaganda
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

 

Some Indians have a superstition about keeping Mahabharata in their homes because it contains so much violence and is the story of a feuding  family. They don’t want to have that type of energy in their houses.  One Indian gentleman who expressed this was with his teenaged kids. I had just showed him my new book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest. I asked the kids what type of reading material they keep in the house. They mentioned Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and a couple of other books that have violent or sexual content. I pointed out the apparent discrepancy – “You are keeping these books in the house, but object to Mahabharata?”  

I explained how there has always been false propaganda in society, and gave the example that many people think  Obama is a Moslem and that he was born in Kenya. There’s even a false Kenyan birth certificate circulating the internet. But the strange thing is that the Kenyan document is dated several years before the country was even named Kenya.   I mentioned that in the end of Mahabharata, Vyasa, the author himself, declares that one should keep the text in a special place in the house and wrap it in a silken cloth to remind one of how valuable it is. Why not believe the author rather than some superstition. The gentleman took out his wallet and purchased Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest.   

Also, there are several professors who plan to use the book in their college courses.

Please check out a great article about the book on ISKCON NEWS at

and my own site about the book and project 
www.Mahabharata-Project.com
And a brief interview with me about writing Mahabharata at www.Bhaktiwriters.com

The Mahabharata is Available
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

My book Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest is finally available in print. After two major glitches with my computer (an Apple no less), a final edit and re-edit, and bringing all the book’s elements  together, it’s been an intense several months, and sometimes I really wondered if I could get through it. I’m pinching myself now. Writing Mahabharata and fitting all the pieces together and finding the unique elements of each scene has been a wonderful meditation for me. Somehow or other Krishna has prodded me forward to finish this.  At 280 pages, I’ve walked a tightrope in making it an interesting read for those who are familiar with the book and those who are new to it.  Reviews on the book and more info at  
If you would, there are several ways you can help the Mahabharata Project. Order copies for yourself and as gifts for friends. Start a Mahabharata study group. Go to your local or college library and personally request them to order Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest. If you’re on Facebook or have a blog or just have an email list of people you keep in touch with, please share the site www.Mahabharata-Project.com with them.

You can also find a brief interview with me about writing Mahabharata at www.Bhaktiwriters.com

     

The 50th is Coming – A Reminder
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

It’s speeding down upon us. The days are rushing by, turning into weeks and months. It’s only a year and a half away, but there’s still time.

2015 and 1016 mark the 50th anniversaries of Srila Prabhupada’s arrival in America and the formation of ISKCON respectively. These anniversaries are ideal opportunities for devotees to speak about Srila Prabhupada, the Movement he created and demonstrate the impact it has made.  The media and the public are inclined to take notice for anniversaries.  It’s a time to re-introduce ourselves afresh to the public. It’s time for devotees, individually and collectively,  to formulate projects as an offering to Srila Prabhupada and have them ready to go  for these two years.  Imagine if there are a thousand or five thousand projects (small or large; kirtanas, festivals, books, music, dance, films, seminars), presenting Krishna Consciousness, the Vedic culture and Srila Prabhupada, all reaching the public during this time. They could certainly make a concerted  impact on the culture.  

A year and a half is not very long. Now is the time to begin to prepare an offering for this singular occasion. Maybe devotees are planning things already. One thing that would be helpful is to have a site where devotees can communicate about The 50th to  share ideas, offer assistance or suggestions, and promote events. 

Mahabharata: The Movie?
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest

As some may know, I was involved in theater in the Movement for many years. That was back in the 70’s and 80’s.  (Over the last twenty years I transitioned into dramatic storytelling, which I also do professionally.) Lokamangala prabhu and I performed Mahabhharata Off Broadway in NYC over 25 years ago and also toured with the play to temples, colleges and special events. We touched a lot of people with  this play wherein we each took on several roles, including storyteller. Devotees often suggested we work on a Mahabharata movie. That’s a bit out of my reach at this point, but I thought I would write the story in a way that it would feel like a film. 

I’ve been working on my Mahabharata rendition for some years. And at the end of June the book will finally be available.  One scholar, Subhash Kak, PhD at  Oklahoma State University, has written in the foreword:  “A great book needs to be retold afresh for each generation. The Mahabharata is one of those books… Fast-paced and cinematic, this rendition captures the scope and breath of the great epic.”
My title is Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest. The amazing thing about the  Mahabharata is that it contains all genres: action-adventure, romance, humor, tragedy, horror, mystery, mystical and apocalyptical. It’s all there, and more. It’s the living sacred story of an ancient land and an ancient tradition. 

The book is geared to readers aged 14 to 94 (after 94 just stick to Prabhupada’s books). My daughter is doing a full color cover. The book has a $16 price tag. To see more reviews & details  & to pre-order the book go to   http://mahabharataproject.wordpress.com/
Until further notice I am only accepting orders in the USA. If your outside let me know and I’ll figure it out

But I have a special request:  If you would like to help in the printing of the book AND be listed on the acknowledgement page in the book for supporting this Mahabharata Project  AND receive four autographed copies And be able to get copies at wholesale prices for as long as the book is in print (they are going to make great gifts)      – You get all that for only $108.   – TIME SENSITIVE –  You will need  to email me at  – Story108@juno.com   – by Tuesday, April 23 if you would like to help out in this way and have your name in the book as a supporter. 
  

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to get in touch.

your friend and servant,  

Sankirtana Das
PS: Srila Prabhupada writes, “In this age, the Mahabharata is more essential than the original Vedas.” 


Mahabharata: The Movie?
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest

As some may know, I was involved in theater in the Movement for many years. That was back in the 70’s and 80’s.  (Over the last twenty years I transitioned into dramatic storytelling, which I also do professionally.) Lokamangala prabhu and I performed Mahabhharata Off Broadway in NYC over 25 years ago and also toured with the play to temples, colleges and special events. We touched a lot of people with  this play wherein we each took on several roles, including storyteller. Devotees often suggested we work on a Mahabharata movie. That’s a bit out of my reach at this point, but I thought I would write the story in a way that it would feel like a film. 

I’ve been working on my Mahabharata rendition for some years. And at the end of July the book will finally be available.  One scholar, Subhash Kak, PhD at  Oklahoma State University, has written in the foreword:  “A great book needs to be retold afresh for each generation. The Mahabharata is one of those books… Fast-paced and cinematic, this rendition captures the scope and breath of the great epic.”
My title is Mahabharata: The Eternal Quest. The amazing thing about the  Mahabharata is that it contains all genres: action-adventure, romance, humor, tragedy, horror, mystery, mystical and apocalyptical. It’s all there, and more. It’s the living sacred story of an ancient land and an ancient tradition. 

The book is geared to readers – young adults and up, and especially for study in college classes.  My daughter is doing a full color cover. The book has a $16 price tag. To see more reviews & details & to pre-order the book go to   http://mahabharata-project.com/
Until further notice I am only accepting orders in the USA. If you’re outside let me know and I’ll see what I can do. 

But I have a special request:  If you would like to help in the printing of the book AND be listed on the acknowledgement page in the book for supporting this Mahabharata Project  AND receive four autographed copies And be able to get copies at wholesale prices for as long as the book is in print (they are going to make great gifts)      – You get all that for only $108.   – TIME SENSITIVE –  You will need  to email me at  – Story108@juno.com   – by Tuesday, April 23 if you would like to help out in this way and have your name in the book as a supporter. 
  

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to get in touch.

your friend and servant,  

Sankirtana Das
PS: Srila Prabhupada writes, “In this age, the Mahabharata is more essential than the original Vedas.” 


The Passing of Ruci’s Father – 2 of 2 Parts
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

As it turned out Al had three cancerous tumors in his brain. They were spreading rapidly. It was terminal. In the hospital, at the bedside, our family doctor told him that he didn’t have much time left. I was surprised when Al asked if he could get two or three more years. And after all those times when he said that he was ready to go. I guess, we never give up the desire to stay alive. 

Actually, his condition was sever. The doctor thought that he had less then two weeks.  Fortunately, a bed was available at a local hospice center called Liza’s Place. The ambulance took him there the next day. He settled in and  spent several happy days there attended to by Ruci and her two siblings who had quickly arrived.

On one of the days Al just said, “I have five days left.” It was a casual remark. The nurses took it seriously. They said that patients often knew when they would depart. Then his conditioned worsened rapidly. At that time, when Ruci would say “Hare Krishna” to him, Al responded with “Hare Krishna.” Ruci’s brother and sister had to leave. Ruci prayed that she would be there when her father passed, to attend to him and guide him.  Al’s “Hare Krishna” became feebler and finally there was no response at all. He had also started picking at the thin air with his finger tips.
That Friday Al went into what the hospice people refer to as Stage Four. It was the finally stage. Barely conscious. Eyes open, but no eye contact. The patient is not communicative in the least. The last days. But we and the hospice people knew that hearing is the last sense to go. Ruci spent all day Friday chanting to him and telling him that we would all be OK if he wanted to leave his body.

The next morning, Gopa drove Ruci to the hospice and she  was back at her father’s bedside by 10. I had a leisurely morning. It was all too intense for me with my own heart condition.  I went down to the temple for lunch. I also got a flower garland from the altar and a little caritamrita (the Lord’s bathwater).

When I arrived at the hospice Ruci put some drops of caritamrita on his tongue (Al’s mouth was open, breathing heavily and his head stretched back – also a sign of Stage Four).  I placed the flower garland on his chest.  Ruci  brought one of the flowers to his nose and then dabbed it along his forehead and on his eyes.

Ruci took a break and I stayed with Al, chanting to him. After a few minutes I wondered what it was like to be in his position.  I imagined he felt alone and fearful. I spoke to him. “Krishna is your friend. There’s nothing to worry about. Krishna is our father, our mother, our eternal guide, our dearmost friend. You’ve lived a good life. Now just remember Krishna. Think of Krishna. Krishna will help you. Krishna will guide you. You can easily cross over. It’s OK. We’re fine. Thank you for all you’ve done for us.  Don’t be afraid. Krishna will wash away all of your fears. Just remember Krishna and he will be with you on your journey.”

When Ruci came back she was torn about what to do. She didn’t want to leave, but she was emotionally and physically exhausted.  She prayed to be there for his departure. She tried to find his pulse but couldn’t. She hadn’t been able to find his pulse for hours. She went out to the nurse’s desk and asked them to come and check for his pulse. She went back to the room and continued chanting. After five minutes no one had come in.  And as she chanted the Holy Name, quite suddenly and uneventfully, Al took three final breaths and left his body. Then no breathing. Nothing.  
Outside the room the nurse and two attendants were speaking together. Ruci peeked her head out the door and calmly  told them that she thought her father had passed away. They all rushed into the room and hovered over the bed. Then Al let out one last great sigh and was gone.  “He’s a fighter,” the nurse said.  I had stepped out of the room for a few minutes and returned after Al’s departure. Ruci and the three of them standing around the bed in a hallowed silence.   It had been about 25 minutes since Al received the Deities’ garland and water. 

After the two attendants left tearfully, expressing their condolences, the nurse looked at us. You could see she was trying to put things together: how Ruci calmly mentioned that her father had passed. That there had been no struggle on Al’s part. The whole atmosphere was calm. We were calm. She noticed our bead bags. Finally she asked, “What religion are you?”

Ruci and I explained to her that we are devotees of Krishna. That we lived at the Hare Krishna community.  She sincerely asked questions and for a few moments we spoke to her about Krishna Consciousness. She thanked us and quietly left to make arrangements.

Krishna had fulfilled Ruci’s desire to assist her father at the moment of death. She was sad but grateful. It also turned into an opportunity to tell people about Krishna. I think Al will get the benefit for arranging that.  And Al hit it close to the mark. He went into Stage Four on the fifth day and departed on the sixth.

  

The Passing of Ruci’s Father – 2 of 2 Parts
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

As it turned out Al had three cancerous tumors in his brain. They were spreading rapidly. It was terminal. In the hospital, at the bedside, our family doctor told him that he didn’t have much time left. I was surprised when Al asked if he could get two or three more years. And after all those times when he said that he was ready to go. I guess, we never give up the desire to stay alive. 

Actually, his condition was sever. The doctor thought that he had less then two weeks.  Fortunately, a bed was available at a local hospice center called Liza’s Place. The ambulance took him there the next day. He settled in and  spent several happy days there attended to by Ruci and her two siblings who had quickly arrived.

On one of the days Al just said, “I have five days left.” It was a casual remark. The nurses took it seriously. They said that patients often knew when they would depart. Then his conditioned worsened rapidly. At that time, when Ruci would say “Hare Krishna” to him, Al responded with “Hare Krishna.” Ruci’s brother and sister had to leave. Ruci prayed that she would be there when her father passed, to attend to him and guide him.  Al’s “Hare Krishna” became feebler and finally there was no response at all. He had also started picking at the thin air with his finger tips.
That Friday Al went into what the hospice people refer to as Stage Four. It was the finally stage. Barely conscious. Eyes open, but no eye contact. The patient is not communicative in the least. The last days. But we and the hospice people knew that hearing is the last sense to go. Ruci spent all day Friday chanting to him and telling him that we would all be OK if he wanted to leave his body.

The next morning, Gopa drove Ruci to the hospice and she  was back at her father’s bedside by 10. I had a leisurely morning. It was all too intense for me with my own heart condition.  I went down to the temple for lunch. I also got a flower garland from the altar and a little caritamrita (the Lord’s bathwater).

When I arrived at the hospice Ruci put some drops of caritamrita on his tongue (Al’s mouth was open, breathing heavily and his head stretched back – also a sign of Stage Four).  I placed the flower garland on his chest.  Ruci  brought one of the flowers to his nose and then dabbed it along his forehead and on his eyes.

Ruci took a break and I stayed with Al, chanting to him. After a few minutes I wondered what it was like to be in his position.  I imagined he felt alone and fearful. I spoke to him. “Krishna is your friend. There’s nothing to worry about. Krishna is our father, our mother, our eternal guide, our dearmost friend. You’ve lived a good life. Now just remember Krishna. Think of Krishna. Krishna will help you. Krishna will guide you. You can easily cross over. It’s OK. We’re fine. Thank you for all you’ve done for us.  Don’t be afraid. Krishna will wash away all of your fears. Just remember Krishna and he will be with you on your journey.”

When Ruci came back she was torn about what to do. She didn’t want to leave, but she was emotionally and physically exhausted.  She prayed to be there for his departure. She tried to find his pulse but couldn’t. She hadn’t been able to find his pulse for hours. She went out to the nurse’s desk and asked them to come and check for his pulse. She went back to the room and continued chanting. After five minutes no one had come in.  And as she chanted the Holy Name, quite suddenly and uneventfully, Al took three final breaths and left his body. Then no breathing. Nothing.  
Outside the room the nurse and two attendants were speaking together. Ruci peeked her head out the door and calmly  told them that she thought her father had passed away. They all rushed into the room and hovered over the bed. Then Al let out one last great sigh and was gone.  “He’s a fighter,” the nurse said.  I had stepped out of the room for a few minutes and returned after Al’s departure. Ruci and the three of them standing around the bed in a hallowed silence.   It had been about 25 minutes since Al received the Deities’ garland and water. 

After the two attendants left tearfully, expressing their condolences, the nurse looked at us. You could see she was trying to put things together: how Ruci calmly mentioned that her father had passed. That there had been no struggle on Al’s part. The whole atmosphere was calm. We were calm. She noticed our bead bags. Finally she asked, “What religion are you?”

Ruci and I explained to her that we are devotees of Krishna. That we lived at the Hare Krishna community.  She sincerely asked questions and for a few moments we spoke to her about Krishna Consciousness. She thanked us and quietly left to make arrangements.

Krishna had fulfilled Ruci’s desire to assist her father at the moment of death. She was sad but grateful. It also turned into an opportunity to tell people about Krishna. I think Al will get the benefit for arranging that.  And Al hit it close to the mark. He went into Stage Four on the fifth day and departed on the sixth.

  

The Passing of Ruci’s Father – 1 of 2 Parts
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Ruci’s father, Al Iannuzzi – aged 98,  passed away last month, just about a month shy of his 99th birthday. Ten months earlier, his wife Ruth passed away at 95  (see my articles from last year about that). They had moved in with us in 2004. They said they wanted to spend the last years of their lives with us here in New Vrindaban. They had started their yearly visits to the community in the late 70’s shortly after my wife and I moved here.  After Ruth’s death, Al soldiered on surprisingly well.  They had been together for 75 years and he often expressed how he missed his wife tremendously.

At 98, Al didn’t look his age. He was in pretty decent health, and was mentally sound. During his last couple of years Al  had this thing about God and religion. There was so much fighting in the name of religion. Why would God allow that? And all the injustices that took place in the name of God. It didn’t make any sense to him. Still he acknowledged that he had a good life and that he couldn’t complain. Al was a good  and kind man. Even though there were problems along the way, things always seemed to work out. He was quite happy that he and Ruth had come to live with us. Over the years they often enjoyed going to the temple to talk with devotees and guests. Al really enjoyed meeting different types of people and he especially liked talking with devotees, and the devotees were kind and respectful to him.

In his last months, he rarely left the house. His condition went downhill in November. His left arm suddenly grew weak. He noticeably started to forget things. We suspected he had a mini-stroke. On a doctor’s visit the doctor wanted to run some tests and blood work to get a better understanding of his condition. “What for?” Al said, “I’ve lived long enough. I’m ready to go.”

After that, as the days passed, each morning in the kitchen Al would say how lousy he felt.  It became a morning ritual. Every morning he would say “What’s the purpose of living this long? It’s unnatural.” He advised against it. “I’m ready to go,” he would say.  Ruci and I tried to nudge him toward meditating upon Krishna’s name, but he just shrugged his shoulders. Not that he was against Krishna Consciousness. He often joked that when he reached his 100th birthday the devotees could come and sing to him – and he would sing along  too. Maybe, in his own way, he was petitioning Krishna to live to 100.

Then one morning in the beginning of January, he didn’t show up in the kitchen. Later in the morning I went to see him. I found him in his easy chair, barely able to move. Al said that he had a bad night. That he had been in pain. He was reluctant to admit it, but he finally said he was still in pain. And when he stood up he wobbled.  But he was stubborn.  He didn’t want to take my help and  Ruci was with her class. It took me almost two hours to convince  him to go to the ER.  I was exhausted. My son drove in from town to help Al get to the car. He was still reluctant to go but we finally left for the ER. 

The Passing of Ruci’s Father – 1 of 2 Parts
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Ruci’s father, Al Iannuzzi – aged 98,  passed away last month, just about a month shy of his 99th birthday. Ten months earlier, his wife Ruth passed away at 95  (see my articles from last year about that). They had moved in with us in 2004. They said they wanted to spend the last years of their lives with us here in New Vrindaban. They had started their yearly visits to the community in the late 70’s shortly after my wife and I moved here.  After Ruth’s death, Al soldiered on surprisingly well.  They had been together for 75 years and he often expressed how he missed his wife tremendously.

At 98, Al didn’t look his age. He was in pretty decent health, and was mentally sound. During his last couple of years Al  had this thing about God and religion. There was so much fighting in the name of religion. Why would God allow that? And all the injustices that took place in the name of God. It didn’t make any sense to him. Still he acknowledged that he had a good life and that he couldn’t complain. Al was a good  and kind man. Even though there were problems along the way, things always seemed to work out. He was quite happy that he and Ruth had come to live with us. Over the years they often enjoyed going to the temple to talk with devotees and guests. Al really enjoyed meeting different types of people and he especially liked talking with devotees, and the devotees were kind and respectful to him.

In his last months, he rarely left the house. His condition went downhill in November. His left arm suddenly grew weak. He noticeably started to forget things. We suspected he had a mini-stroke. On a doctor’s visit the doctor wanted to run some tests and blood work to get a better understanding of his condition. “What for?” Al said, “I’ve lived long enough. I’m ready to go.”

After that, as the days passed, each morning in the kitchen Al would say how lousy he felt.  It became a morning ritual. Every morning he would say “What’s the purpose of living this long? It’s unnatural.” He advised against it. “I’m ready to go,” he would say.  Ruci and I tried to nudge him toward meditating upon Krishna’s name, but he just shrugged his shoulders. Not that he was against Krishna Consciousness. He often joked that when he reached his 100th birthday the devotees could come and sing to him – and he would sing along  too. Maybe, in his own way, he was petitioning Krishna to live to 100.

Then one morning in the beginning of January, he didn’t show up in the kitchen. Later in the morning I went to see him. I found him in his easy chair, barely able to move. Al said that he had a bad night. That he had been in pain. He was reluctant to admit it, but he finally said he was still in pain. And when he stood up he wobbled.  But he was stubborn.  He didn’t want to take my help and  Ruci was with her class. It took me almost two hours to convince  him to go to the ER.  I was exhausted. My son drove in from town to help Al get to the car. He was still reluctant to go but we finally left for the ER. 

Keeping The Darkness Away: Diwali & Govardhana
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Diwali, the Festival of Lights is a fitting time for the Hindu New Year.  One of the main stories behind this day is the return of Rama to Ayodhya. Rama and the monkey forces had defeated Ravana and his Raksasa hordes. Ravana had superior weapons and superior forces. The monkeys had only crude weapons – trees, rocks and clubs – but they won nevertheless. By the grace of Lord Rama, the monkeys were unstoppable. Having faith in Rama, we also have to be unstoppable in our efforts to serve Rama and glorify Him.

Several weeks later after the victory, Rama, Sita, Laksman and Hanuman boarded a flower airplane which took them back to Ayodhya. The citizens there waited in great anticipation. The city was bedecked with candles shining from every home. After so many long years the people were eager to see their Lord once again. His return would mark a new era for them – RamRaj. And we also must light the candles. Not only in our homes, but in our hearts. To renew our faith in the Lord and, at this time of year, welcome Him back into our lives.  But why every year? Indeed, we must welcome Him every day and every moment.

The day after Diwali is Govardhana Lila, and so, the devotees delight in worshiping Sri Rama and Sri Krishna back to back. They are one and the same. Krishna, as a child, growing up in Vrindaban, was very mischievous. One day,  Krishna’s father Nanda and the residents there were getting ready to worship King Indra who brought the much needed rain to the land. But in the middle of getting ready for one event, Krishna asked them to make another type of sacrifice – to worship Govardhana Hill instead. Krishna sometimes does that to us. You know what I’m talking about.

There’s a saying attributed to John Lennon: “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” We’ve all experienced this in one way or other. Earlier this month my wife and I were a little concerned since Hurricane Sandy was supposed to brush by us (we had heard about the disruption in New York and New Jersey – and I pray for everyone in that area)  And so Sandy came, leaving us without electricity for only four hours.  What a relief! That wasn’t so bad (especially since at the beginning of the summer we had no power for eight days).

My wife and I thought that now we could get on with our lives. But even though the power went back on, our house remained without water for four days. For four days we had to fetch water to bathe and clean and cook. Normally, we get water from our own well. Now we were worried that the pump in the well stopped working, or worse yet, that the well caved in (which happened to us before). But Krishna was merciful. It was only a bad pressure tank in the basement, which our plumber fixed in several hours. 

Krishna often calls upon us to make some sacrifice. We’re expecting to do one thing, but something happens and we’re forced to do something else. So we could do it begrudgingly and curse our circumstances. Or we could find the strength to say “Thank you Krishna for giving me this opportunity to surrender to Your will.”

These holy-days can give us clues on how to live everyday.

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare

Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare

Keeping The Darkness Away: Diwali & Govardhana
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Diwali, the Festival of Lights is a fitting time for the Hindu New Year.  One of the main stories behind this day is the return of Rama to Ayodhya. Rama and the monkey forces had defeated Ravana and his Raksasa hordes. Ravana had superior weapons and superior forces. The monkeys had only crude weapons – trees, rocks and clubs – but they won nevertheless. By the grace of Lord Rama, the monkeys were unstoppable. Having faith in Rama, we also have to be unstoppable in our efforts to serve Rama and glorify Him.

Several weeks later after the victory, Rama, Sita, Laksman and Hanuman boarded a flower airplane which took them back to Ayodhya. The citizens there waited in great anticipation. The city was bedecked with candles shining from every home. After so many long years the people were eager to see their Lord once again. His return would mark a new era for them – RamRaj. And we also must light the candles. Not only in our homes, but in our hearts. To renew our faith in the Lord and, at this time of year, welcome Him back into our lives.  But why every year? Indeed, we must welcome Him every day and every moment.

The day after Diwali is Govardhana Lila, and so, the devotees delight in worshiping Sri Rama and Sri Krishna back to back. They are one and the same. Krishna, as a child, growing up in Vrindaban, was very mischievous. One day,  Krishna’s father Nanda and the residents there were getting ready to worship King Indra who brought the much needed rain to the land. But in the middle of getting ready for one event, Krishna asked them to make another type of sacrifice – to worship Govardhana Hill instead. Krishna sometimes does that to us. You know what I’m talking about.

There’s a saying attributed to John Lennon: “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” We’ve all experienced this in one way or other. Earlier this month my wife and I were a little concerned since Hurricane Sandy was supposed to brush by us (we had heard about the disruption in New York and New Jersey – and I pray for everyone in that area)  And so Sandy came, leaving us without electricity for only four hours.  What a relief! That wasn’t so bad (especially since at the beginning of the summer we had no power for eight days).

My wife and I thought that now we could get on with our lives. But even though the power went back on, our house remained without water for four days. For four days we had to fetch water to bathe and clean and cook. Normally, we get water from our own well. Now we were worried that the pump in the well stopped working, or worse yet, that the well caved in (which happened to us before). But Krishna was merciful. It was only a bad pressure tank in the basement, which our plumber fixed in several hours. 

Krishna often calls upon us to make some sacrifice. We’re expecting to do one thing, but something happens and we’re forced to do something else. So we could do it begrudgingly and curse our circumstances. Or we could find the strength to say “Thank you Krishna for giving me this opportunity to surrender to Your will.”

These holy-days can give us clues on how to live everyday.

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare

Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare

Chasing Red Herrings
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Last installment of Getting By In The Kaliyuga

Balancing the budget is a red herring. Politicians make it sound like it’s the most important thing in the world, but at this point and time, it’s not. Five years ago the economy  took a nose dive. When Bush left office, we were in  a free fall. First, you have to stabilize the economy.  When that’s done then you can think about balancing the budget. This takes years to unravel. Romney even said recently that, if he gets elected, he needs eight to ten years to turn things around (but blames Obama for not getting things done in four years).

What happened to the budget to begin with? What happened to the jobs?  Who made out big time when the economy went down? Did you? Is the debt your fault?   Should you and your children be penalized for the debt?  Follow the money trail. Look the events of the last thirty years. The people that are responsible for all this don’t want us to look at the past. And did you ever see those Senate hearings   where the senators are all indignant and huffing and puffing, and the Wall Street guys are cowering at the table in front of the bench. People swallow this stuff up.  But it’s a charade because nothing ever comes of it. Nothing ever changes.

If the bankers make a profit, they get to keep it for themselves and in turn keep the politicians who helped them in office. And if the bankers screw up then  they get the politicians to convince us that we   all need help clean up the mess they created.  This is capitalism and socialism at its finest.

Prabhupada explains in Light of the Bhagavat (in the purport of text 44) that politicians “want to flourish in the guise of servants of the people…(that they) want to exploit the administrative power for their own self-interest…although professing democracy, they want to be kings…. they compete for votes by bad propaganda.”  This sums up the mentality and modus operandi  of many politicians. Nowadays politicians and bankers throw out so many misleading “facts” and “figures” to confuse people. They even hire so-called “research firms” to come up with the conclusions they want you to see. Someone said that you’re entitled to you own opinions but your not entitled to your own facts.  So the problem is if you don’t (or can’t because of the misleading information) study and learn from past mistakes then you’re  condemned to repeat them. You might remember Laural and Hardy – “Here’s another fine mess you’ve gotten me into.”  They never learn.

Of course, we have to learn how to maneuver through this material world, which often seems like a battlefield.  Sometimes, the battle is raging around us, and sometimes even within us. We have to try our best to do the right thing, without attachment to results, and in his books  Srila Prabhupada has provided an excellent basis, both materially and spiritually.  He has shown us that ultimately real happiness  is not about cultivation of mundane facts and figures. It’s not about who’s in the White House.  It’s not about attaining  satisfaction through the temporary connection we have to this body of ours.   It is about understanding our  own eternal nature as spirit souls and our loving relationship with the Supreme Soul of souls, the Lord Within The Heart.  It’s understanding the journey we’re on in this life,  a journey of self discovery. Be true to yourself. Stay focused on the real goal. Don’t go chasing after red herrings.

“One who has renounced the fruits of his actions, whose doubts are destroyed by transcendental knowledge, and who is situated firmly in the self, is not bound by works, O conqueror of riches.”  Bhagavad Gita 4:41

Chasing Red Herrings
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Last installment of Getting By In The Kaliyuga

Balancing the budget is a red herring. Politicians make it sound like it’s the most important thing in the world, but at this point and time, it’s not. Five years ago the economy  took a nose dive. When Bush left office, we were in  a free fall. First, you have to stabilize the economy.  When that’s done then you can think about balancing the budget. This takes years to unravel. Romney even said recently that, if he gets elected, he needs eight to ten years to turn things around (but blames Obama for not getting things done in four years).

What happened to the budget to begin with? What happened to the jobs?  Who made out big time when the economy went down? Did you? Is the debt your fault?   Should you and your children be penalized for the debt?  Follow the money trail. Look the events of the last thirty years. The people that are responsible for all this don’t want us to look at the past. And did you ever see those Senate hearings   where the senators are all indignant and huffing and puffing, and the Wall Street guys are cowering at the table in front of the bench. People swallow this stuff up.  But it’s a charade because nothing ever comes of it. Nothing ever changes.

If the bankers make a profit, they get to keep it for themselves and in turn keep the politicians who helped them in office. And if the bankers screw up then  they get the politicians to convince us that we   all need help clean up the mess they created.  This is capitalism and socialism at its finest.

Prabhupada explains in Light of the Bhagavat (in the purport of text 44) that politicians “want to flourish in the guise of servants of the people…(that they) want to exploit the administrative power for their own self-interest…although professing democracy, they want to be kings…. they compete for votes by bad propaganda.”  This sums up the mentality and modus operandi  of many politicians. Nowadays politicians and bankers throw out so many misleading “facts” and “figures” to confuse people. They even hire so-called “research firms” to come up with the conclusions they want you to see. Someone said that you’re entitled to you own opinions but your not entitled to your own facts.  So the problem is if you don’t (or can’t because of the misleading information) study and learn from past mistakes then you’re  condemned to repeat them. You might remember Laural and Hardy – “Here’s another fine mess you’ve gotten me into.”  They never learn.

Of course, we have to learn how to maneuver through this material world, which often seems like a battlefield.  Sometimes, the battle is raging around us, and sometimes even within us. We have to try our best to do the right thing, without attachment to results, and in his books  Srila Prabhupada has provided an excellent basis, both materially and spiritually.  He has shown us that ultimately real happiness  is not about cultivation of mundane facts and figures. It’s not about who’s in the White House.  It’s not about attaining  satisfaction through the temporary connection we have to this body of ours.   It is about understanding our  own eternal nature as spirit souls and our loving relationship with the Supreme Soul of souls, the Lord Within The Heart.  It’s understanding the journey we’re on in this life,  a journey of self discovery. Be true to yourself. Stay focused on the real goal. Don’t go chasing after red herrings.

“One who has renounced the fruits of his actions, whose doubts are destroyed by transcendental knowledge, and who is situated firmly in the self, is not bound by works, O conqueror of riches.”  Bhagavad Gita 4:41

Down With Entitlements!
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

What’s with these politicians signing pledges not to raise taxes? And why do some want to sacrifice Big Bird on the economic altar? If we have to sacrifice someone, why not  the lobbyists?
But nobody wants to touch the lobbyists. Why is entitlement for lobbyists good, but entitlement for seniors bad? Why do we tolerate the lobbyists? Of course, the lobbyists are the one’s really  writing the country’s legislation nowadays (not our elected politicians). That means they have the laws tilted to the advantage of big business. So where is the government “of the people, by the people, for the people?” Does this apply any more or is it just a myth?
In the Vedic culture the leaders had advisors. But the advisors were totally impartial. They didn’t care about Profit for themselves. They cared about upholding the Dharma. That was their contribution to society. So if politicians want to sign pledges, let them sign a pledge to have nothing to do with the lobbyists.  This would be a good start.  Then maybe the lawmakers could really become lawmakers. 

And while they’re at it, the lawmakers  could also sign a pledge not to participate in insider trading.  On Wall Street, insider trading could get you a jail sentence or at least a stiff fine. But not the politicians. Talk about entitlement!!! They can, and do, take advantage of the information that they are privy to in their committee meetings and as they cast influential legislation.  Are they entitled to  think about making extra money for themselves while they’re supposed to be working for us? What would your boss do if he/she caught you working for yourself while you’re on the job?

And the medical plans for politicians? Why should they be entitled to special plans for the rest of their lives even if they only serve on the Hill for five years? When’s the last time you held on to you’re medical plan after you left your job?  Let’s get a comprehensive medical plan for everybody – or for nobody – including the politicians.  Unresolved or ambiguous medical situations take an invisible  toll on the country. Politicians telling people to go to the ER is no  solution.  All of us pay for it in one way or another.

Down with entitlements for politicians. Don’t let politicians 1) be controlled by or morph into lobbyists 2) don’t let them make extra money for themselves while they’re working for us 3) don’t let then walk away with medical plans after they leave the job. 

The Vedic culture shows that governments can work. In this ancient culture, the leaders are beholden to the principles of the Dharma.  They are not immune from the law.  The leaders often made the biggest sacrifices rather than simply asking other take on the burdens.  Unfortunately, the governments of the world have now degenerated into societies of  cheaters and the cheated. If politicians had to scramble like many folks,  they might start working together pretty quickly to find solutions.

Down With Entitlements!
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

What’s with these politicians signing pledges not to raise taxes? And why do some want to sacrifice Big Bird on the economic altar? If we have to sacrifice someone, why not  the lobbyists?
But nobody wants to touch the lobbyists. Why is entitlement for lobbyists good, but entitlement for seniors bad? Why do we tolerate the lobbyists? Of course, the lobbyists are the one’s really  writing the country’s legislation nowadays (not our elected politicians). That means they have the laws tilted to the advantage of big business. So where is the government “of the people, by the people, for the people?” Does this apply any more or is it just a myth?
In the Vedic culture the leaders had advisors. But the advisors were totally impartial. They didn’t care about Profit for themselves. They cared about upholding the Dharma. That was their contribution to society. So if politicians want to sign pledges, let them sign a pledge to have nothing to do with the lobbyists.  This would be a good start.  Then maybe the lawmakers could really become lawmakers. 

And while they’re at it, the lawmakers  could also sign a pledge not to participate in insider trading.  On Wall Street, insider trading could get you a jail sentence or at least a stiff fine. But not the politicians. Talk about entitlement!!! They can, and do, take advantage of the information that they are privy to in their committee meetings and as they cast influential legislation.  Are they entitled to  think about making extra money for themselves while they’re supposed to be working for us? What would your boss do if he/she caught you working for yourself while you’re on the job?

And the medical plans for politicians? Why should they be entitled to special plans for the rest of their lives even if they only serve on the Hill for five years? When’s the last time you held on to you’re medical plan after you left your job?  Let’s get a comprehensive medical plan for everybody – or for nobody – including the politicians.  Unresolved or ambiguous medical situations take an invisible  toll on the country. Politicians telling people to go to the ER is no  solution.  All of us pay for it in one way or another.

Down with entitlements for politicians. Don’t let politicians 1) be controlled by or morph into lobbyists 2) don’t let them make extra money for themselves while they’re working for us 3) don’t let then walk away with medical plans after they leave the job. 

The Vedic culture shows that governments can work. In this ancient culture, the leaders are beholden to the principles of the Dharma.  They are not immune from the law.  The leaders often made the biggest sacrifices rather than simply asking other take on the burdens.  Unfortunately, the governments of the world have now degenerated into societies of  cheaters and the cheated. If politicians had to scramble like many folks,  they might start working together pretty quickly to find solutions.

Getting By In The Kaliyuga #2
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Human life is all about regulation. Morality means regulation. Children and young people getting an education requires regulation. Married life requires regulation. And driving safely on the road requires regulation. Why shouldn’t this apply to businesses? After all, as some proclaim, “businesses are people too.” So why do some politicians insist that de-regulation, or absolutely no regulation, is the easiest and best way for big business to move forward? It’s like a child in the store crying and demanding. It’s a lot like the hippies back in the 60’s clamoring for a lifestyle of “free sex” and “free drugs.” And today’s big business wants a free and easy ride as well.

The Vedic system is one of order and opportunity. Both Narada Muni and Grandfather Bhisma taught Yudhisthira that the fruits of a civilized culture are Justice, Profit, and Happiness – this is echoed in the Declaration of Independence which proclaimed our inalienable rights to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Narada and Bhisma explained that this system of order and opportunity only works if Justice isn’t abused to generate Profit; and that Profits are never to be used to influence the workings of Justice; and that no amount of Justice (liberty) or Profits can actually bring about Happiness, because real Happiness only comes about by an internal process.

Time and again, like a child, big business is eager to run recklessly after quick profits to secure some immediate happiness, casting good sense to the wind. Imagine the chaos if this unregulated dynamic were allowed to be played out by drivers on our roads. It would be pandemonium, and death.

To govern properly, and to live peacefully, requires training and education. People need to be educated so they understand and identify the qualities of proper leadership. What is the value of uneducated voters electing unqualified leaders. It becomes a case of the blind then leading the blind.

In the “Light of the Bhagavat,” (verse 2) Srila Prabhupada explains that education of the citizens is the most important ingredient if democracy is to thrive. The citizens, he writes “should be honest in the payment of taxes to the state and should have honest representatives to look over the administration. In the modern setup of democratic states the citizens can have no cause for grievances, because the whole administration is conducted by the people themselves. If the people themselves are dishonest, the administrative machinery must be corrupt…. if the people are not good they cannot have good government, regardless of which party governs the administration. Therefore good character in the consciousness of the mass of people is the first principle necessary for a good government….”

Actually, the Vedic approach amalgamates the best of what both the Republicans and the Democrats have to offer: that everyone assume personal responsibility; that the leadership provide a fair playing field so all citizens have the opportunity to thrive; that the leadership assumes the greatest responsibility and makes the greatest personal sacrifice in time of hardship; and that they also offer protection, or a safety net, for the most vulnerable citizens. And if the leadership were remiss in giving proper protection, they would practically be embarrassed out of their posts.

All to often the so-called political and business leaders find ways to exploit their positions for their own personal gain. If they are not brought to task, then everything becomes spoiled. The panacea (and this is what the Vedic system is about) is for citizens to be educated in the principles of self realization, and in what real leadership is, and in what real responsibility is, and how to live a good and honest life.

Getting By In The Kaliyuga #2
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

Human life is all about regulation. Morality means regulation. Children and young people getting an education requires regulation. Married life requires regulation. And driving safely on the road requires regulation. Why shouldn’t this apply to businesses? After all, as some proclaim, “businesses are people too.” So why do some politicians insist that de-regulation, or absolutely no regulation, is the easiest and best way for big business to move forward? It’s like a child in the store crying and demanding. It’s a lot like the hippies back in the 60’s clamoring for a lifestyle of “free sex” and “free drugs.” And today’s big business wants a free and easy ride as well.

The Vedic system is one of order and opportunity. Both Narada Muni and Grandfather Bhisma taught Yudhisthira that the fruits of a civilized culture are Justice, Profit, and Happiness – this is echoed in the Declaration of Independence which proclaimed our inalienable rights to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Narada and Bhisma explained that this system of order and opportunity only works if Justice isn’t abused to generate Profit; and that Profits are never to be used to influence the workings of Justice; and that no amount of Justice (liberty) or Profits can actually bring about Happiness, because real Happiness only comes about by an internal process.

Time and again, like a child, big business is eager to run recklessly after quick profits to secure some immediate happiness, casting good sense to the wind. Imagine the chaos if this unregulated dynamic were allowed to be played out by drivers on our roads. It would be pandemonium, and death.

To govern properly, and to live peacefully, requires training and education. People need to be educated so they understand and identify the qualities of proper leadership. What is the value of uneducated voters electing unqualified leaders. It becomes a case of the blind then leading the blind.

In the “Light of the Bhagavat,” (verse 2) Srila Prabhupada explains that education of the citizens is the most important ingredient if democracy is to thrive. The citizens, he writes “should be honest in the payment of taxes to the state and should have honest representatives to look over the administration. In the modern setup of democratic states the citizens can have no cause for grievances, because the whole administration is conducted by the people themselves. If the people themselves are dishonest, the administrative machinery must be corrupt…. if the people are not good they cannot have good government, regardless of which party governs the administration. Therefore good character in the consciousness of the mass of people is the first principle necessary for a good government….”

Actually, the Vedic approach amalgamates the best of what both the Republicans and the Democrats have to offer: that everyone assume personal responsibility; that the leadership provide a fair playing field so all citizens have the opportunity to thrive; that the leadership assumes the greatest responsibility and makes the greatest personal sacrifice in time of hardship; and that they also offer protection, or a safety net, for the most vulnerable citizens. And if the leadership were remiss in giving proper protection, they would practically be embarrassed out of their posts.

All to often the so-called political and business leaders find ways to exploit their positions for their own personal gain. If they are not brought to task, then everything becomes spoiled. The panacea (and this is what the Vedic system is about) is for citizens to be educated in the principles of self realization, and in what real leadership is, and in what real responsibility is, and how to live a good and honest life.

Getting By In The Kaliyuga
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

The race for the presidency of the United States is in full swing and many politicians are making promises and saying that they know what is best for the country. Five thousand years ago Grandfather Bhismadev lay on a bed of arrows at Kurushetra. And just as he gave Yudhisthira good advice in managing the kingdom, the modern day politicians would do well to listen to him also. The thing is that people usually can’t or won’t listen to good advice, especially in the Kaliyuga.

Bhismadev offered many elegant points to Yudhisthira on how to be a proper king, or leader. One of the first points Bhismadev makes is that the leader must be devoted to the truth. Unfortunately, there is a wanton parade of half-truths, misleading information, and outright lies emanating from so-called leaders today, and, it seems, especially from those of the Republican persuasion.

A leader is a man of action. For instance, Bhismadev gives the example if someone’s property is stolen, the leader (i.e. the government) must be able to retrieve it. If he cannot, then the leader must replace that property. Bhismadev also mentions that a leader should not neglect the needy, the children, the widows, the elderly. The leader (and government) must provide protection and well being for all, and not just for the privileged. Nowadays, a family’s savings could be wiped out if a family member becomes gravely ill or is born with health problems.

Bhismadev explains the many responsibilities of a leader. Above all, the king must be concerned about the happiness of his citizens and act in a way that will benefit and protect them. He also gives special attention to protecting the brahmanas. The modern leaders are guided by self-interested lobbyists seeking favors for their banks or corporations. Real guidance comes from qualified brahmanas who offer a clear understanding of proper behavior (Dharma), of what is to be done and what is not to be done. Brahmanas, conversant in this Vedic knowledge, understand how to maintain the well being of society and secure a future for all the inhabitants of the land.

The Mahabharata shows us that Yudhisthira, throughout his career, sought guidance from the brahmanas and also from well-wishing elders like Vidura and Bhismadev. This is the proper way to absorb oneself in the Dharma. It’s not that we go to school in our youth for an education, and when we receive a diploma our learning is finished. Students of the Dharma never tire of studying it and seeing how it applies in their lives and in their particular circumstances.

The highest understanding of Dharma is found in the Bhagavad Gita and also the Bhagavat Purana. Krishna states in the Bhagavad Gita (15:15 ) that He Himself is the author and the knower and the goal of all knowledge. And at the end of the Gita (18:70) Krishna explains that “One who studies this sacred conversation (the Gita) worships Me by his intelligence.”

Leading up to the election, I’ll provide an occasional commentary – a mix of Krishna’s Gita, Bhismadev’s instructions to Yudhisthira, and the modern political process, along with the challenges we face today. 

Getting By In The Kaliyuga
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das

The race for the presidency of the United States is in full swing and many politicians are making promises and saying that they know what is best for the country. Five thousand years ago Grandfather Bhismadev lay on a bed of arrows at Kurushetra. And just as he gave Yudhisthira good advice in managing the kingdom, the modern day politicians would do well to listen to him also. The thing is that people usually can’t or won’t listen to good advice, especially in the Kaliyuga.

Bhismadev offered many elegant points to Yudhisthira on how to be a proper king, or leader. One of the first points Bhismadev makes is that the leader must be devoted to the truth. Unfortunately, there is a wanton parade of half-truths, misleading information, and outright lies emanating from so-called leaders today, and, it seems, especially from those of the Republican persuasion.

A leader is a man of action. For instance, Bhismadev gives the example if someone’s property is stolen, the leader (i.e. the government) must be able to retrieve it. If he cannot, then the leader must replace that property. Bhismadev also mentions that a leader should not neglect the needy, the children, the widows, the elderly. The leader (and government) must provide protection and well being for all, and not just for the privileged. Nowadays, a family’s savings could be wiped out if a family member becomes gravely ill or is born with health problems.

Bhismadev explains the many responsibilities of a leader. Above all, the king must be concerned about the happiness of his citizens and act in a way that will benefit and protect them. He also gives special attention to protecting the brahmanas. The modern leaders are guided by self-interested lobbyists seeking favors for their banks or corporations. Real guidance comes from qualified brahmanas who offer a clear understanding of proper behavior (Dharma), of what is to be done and what is not to be done. Brahmanas, conversant in this Vedic knowledge, understand how to maintain the well being of society and secure a future for all the inhabitants of the land.

The Mahabharata shows us that Yudhisthira, throughout his career, sought guidance from the brahmanas and also from well-wishing elders like Vidura and Bhismadev. This is the proper way to absorb oneself in the Dharma. It’s not that we go to school in our youth for an education, and when we receive a diploma our learning is finished. Students of the Dharma never tire of studying it and seeing how it applies in their lives and in their particular circumstances.

The highest understanding of Dharma is found in the Bhagavad Gita and also the Bhagavat Purana. Krishna states in the Bhagavad Gita (15:15 ) that He Himself is the author and the knower and the goal of all knowledge. And at the end of the Gita (18:70) Krishna explains that “One who studies this sacred conversation (the Gita) worships Me by his intelligence.”

Leading up to the election, I’ll provide an occasional commentary – a mix of Krishna’s Gita, Bhismadev’s instructions to Yudhisthira, and the modern political process, along with the challenges we face today.