The quest for a safer motorcycle
→ Home

I've stopped riding my scooter to work. I was having too many accidents with it. In my most recent crash, the front wheel locked up on a slippery slick section of the road and I was thrown off backwards at 70km/h as the scooter tilted over. I was wearing full protective gear, so I only suffered a sprained wirst.

The problem with motorcycles is that they are the most dangerous form of transport. Take a look a these statistics – these are from Northern Ireland, but it's similar everywhere in the world (credit to Wesley Johnston):

 12deathsbymodejourneytime

So, what can be done to make for safer motorcycling? 

1. Protective gear. Motorcycle gear is really good at protecting from injury. It can be the difference between a minor injury and critical injury or death. Here's what was wearing when I rode (all great gear that I would recommend):

(Extra bonus: everything in the list except the gloves is vegan. With the exception of gloves, today's vegan/textile motorcycle gear is just as good as leather clothing. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a model of motorcycle gloves that are vegan and also provide decent protection. There are vegan options, but they don't seem to have decent protective features. I got my gloves used, to minimise the amount of animal death involved in protecting my hands. If anyone knows of any good-quality vegan motorcycle gloves, please post in the comments.)

2. ABS. Anti-locking brakes maintain traction when braking on slippery surfaces.  Most studies conclude that about 30% of motorcycle crashes could be avoided if the bike was equipped with ABS. The evidence is so clear that the European Union has mandated that all new motorcycle sold in the EU from 2016 have ABS. 

ABS generally doesn't work well when a motorcycle is leaning into a corner. However, the latest ABS Pro from Bosch solves that. It works even while cornering.

If I ever resume riding, I certainly will want to do so on a scooter that will not loose traction quite so easily. So, ABS is an absolute must. I would advise anyone buying a motorcycle to definitely get one with ABS.

 3. Two front wheels.  It might seem a little strange recommendation, but adding an extra wheel to a motorcycle makes it so much more stable. Examples of bikes with an additional wheel are the Piaggio MP3 and Yamaha Tricity. The Piaggio claims the MP3 can brake in 20% less distance than other scooters. Also check out this awesome video of a motorcycle rider testing the Tricity and raving out it's excellent handling over obstacles that would cause any two-wheeled bike to crash.

Three wheeled motorcycle can look unfamiliar at best, and some think they are the ugliest machines ever created. Still, many people seem to like them and they sell well. So well that Yamaha has announced they are developing the MWT-9, a three-wheeled superbike thing. It looks like something to crawl out of a Japanese anime horror movie, a feature that might actually be a nice selling point. Coming to market by 2018, so beware.

2015 Yamaha LMW MWT 9 Conce

So, give me a three wheeled motorcycle with ABS Pro and good protective gear, and I might consider riding again.

But for now: I'm switching to bus and bicycle for my daily commute. Wish me luck ✌ 

 

The quest for a safer motorcycle
→ Home

I've stopped riding my scooter to work. I was having too many accidents with it. In my most recent crash, the front wheel locked up on a slippery slick section of the road and I was thrown off backwards at 70km/h as the scooter tilted over. I was wearing full protective gear, so I only suffered a sprained wirst.

The problem with motorcycles is that they are the most dangerous form of transport. Take a look a these statistics – these are from Northern Ireland, but it's similar everywhere in the world (credit to Wesley Johnston):

 12deathsbymodejourneytime

So, what can be done to make for safer motorcycling? 

1. Protective gear. Motorcycle gear is really good at protecting from injury. It can be the difference between a minor injury and critical injury or death. Here's what was wearing when I rode (all great gear that I would recommend):

(Extra bonus: everything in the list except the gloves is vegan. With the exception of gloves, today's vegan/textile motorcycle gear is just as good as leather clothing. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a model of motorcycle gloves that are vegan and also provide decent protection. There are vegan options, but they don't seem to have decent protective features. I got my gloves used, to minimise the amount of animal death involved in protecting my hands. If anyone knows of any good-quality vegan motorcycle gloves, please post in the comments.)

2. ABS. Anti-locking brakes maintain traction when braking on slippery surfaces.  Most studies conclude that about 30% of motorcycle crashes could be avoided if the bike was equipped with ABS. The evidence is so clear that the European Union has mandated that all new motorcycle sold in the EU from 2016 have ABS. 

ABS generally doesn't work well when a motorcycle is leaning into a corner. However, the latest ABS Pro from Bosch solves that. It works even while cornering.

If I ever resume riding, I certainly will want to do so on a scooter that will not loose traction quite so easily. So, ABS is an absolute must. I would advise anyone buying a motorcycle to definitely get one with ABS.

 3. Two front wheels.  It might seem a little strange recommendation, but adding an extra wheel to a motorcycle makes it so much more stable. Examples of bikes with an additional wheel are the Piaggio MP3 and Yamaha Tricity. The Piaggio claims the MP3 can brake in 20% less distance than other scooters. Also check out this awesome video of a motorcycle rider testing the Tricity and raving out it's excellent handling over obstacles that would cause any two-wheeled bike to crash.

Three wheeled motorcycle can look unfamiliar at best, and some think they are the ugliest machines ever created. Still, many people seem to like them and they sell well. So well that Yamaha has announced they are developing the MWT-9, a three-wheeled superbike thing. It looks like something to crawl out of a Japanese anime horror movie, a feature that might actually be a nice selling point. Coming to market by 2018, so beware.

2015 Yamaha LMW MWT 9 Conce

So, give me a three wheeled motorcycle with ABS Pro and good protective gear, and I might consider riding again.

But for now: I'm switching to bus and bicycle for my daily commute. Wish me luck ✌ 

 

The final programs in Durban, April 2016
→ KKSBlog

In the last week of Kadamba Kanana Swami’s stay in Durban, there were three significant programs. On Friday, 15 April, on the special occasion of Rama Naumi, Maharaj attended the evening program at the New Jagannatha Puri Temple where he gave a lecture in glorification of Lord Ramachandra. On Saturday morning at 10:30 am, an initiation ceremony took place at the Durban Temple. And on Saturday afternoon a very special event took place. Disciples from all over South Africa congregated in Durban, at the house of Parjanya Prabhu, Archa Murti Mataji and Candrasekhara, to celebrate Kadamba Kanana Swami in their lives. Please find a description of the event below. On Tuesday (19 April), Maharaj travelled to Radhadesh in Belgium for the celebration of Vyasa Puja. 

Written by Rukmini

Disciple Program in South Africa – Rise to the occasion

A sea of eager faces

Each individually unique

From the wild and wacky to the gently absorbed

A singular mercy they all seek

Family? It can’t be! But no just look again

They gather to honour their father, a giant of a holy man

This function of Vyasa Puja, where we are once a year honouring the spiritual master, is a collective function. It is a function where we come together. It is a function where we can give each other strength – we share some of our higher ideals, some of our doubts, some of our weaknesses, some of our struggle and some of our sorrows. We also see how different devotees find their inspiration.

Each came bearing a gift

Holding their hearts and heartfelt practice in their palms

Offering a life’s worth in words

For hours his ears bore witness to their alms

Some sang, some rapped, some recited poetry

Some scholars, some tears and some hilariously funny

When the tide of offerings stilled

They stared with fixed eyes

Waiting for this yearless wisdom

That would chalk their path of their lives

I’ve often said, “What to do?” Some people think those three words came from me but they didn’t. I learnt them from Bhurijana Prabhu… then just out of the blue one day he wrote me a letter that said, “I finally answered it!” and he said, “Do something.” I thought about that answer for a long time… There is a point. We must do something to the best of our ability. In the end, it is not just about good intentions but it is about what we do… The recent months were a bit intense in terms of the fast moving, overwhelming events. Some people might describe it as a roller coaster experience and the “What to do?” question came up. And the answer I came up with is the answer I like the most: Rise to the occasion. Whatever may come, rise to the occasion! Because this, “What to do?” expresses the powerless position that we are all in in the material world. Sooner or later, we come to the situation where we just feel overpowered. What to do? My answer is: Rise to the occasion. Let this be our guiding principle.

He looked unto his new initiates,

That he had accepted that very morn

Taralaksi (Thashnee), Lajavati (Larissa)

And Nadiya Godrume (Nimai)

And his two older daughters, Radhadhyuti and Merumala

To whom he had gifted the mantras of a brahmana

It should be firm friendship in the relationship with the spiritual master… the essence is that it must be based on trust. Trust means that we can be open and honest and that we know that no matter what, the spiritual master is our ever-well-wisher. No matter what we do, he will not reject us. He will continue to be our well-wisher. Just like being a parent. A parent is an unconditional well-wisher (supposed to be)… No matter what the child does, it’s still your child… The spiritual master is our ever-well-wisher. He will never withdraw his mercy.

As he sat and looked at all is children

The old, the new, the strong and the weak

His gaze filled with love for all

And he explained this family dynamic

It is true that in the beginning, when I first became a spiritual master I had so few disciples. I had so much time for each of them and they became very close to me, very intimate. Now it may not be like that – not that same kind of time spent together, not that same personal exchanges… For that, those who are my older disciples should also share with others. Everyone is sent by Krsna to fulfil a role. It is not that everything is going on by a system and everyone gets the same treatment and the same opportunity. No! Everyone is sent by Krsna to fit into the plan… Some are meant to be strong. Some are meant to be exemplary. Even sometimes I can see in a new person that still they are meant to be like leaders. Immediately, they are meant to be examples and others they may struggle and struggle… For those who are strong by nature, please carry others. For those who are weak, please take shelter of others. We are doing it, collectively. No one is strong all the time… Let us go back to Godhead in this life-time; that is the idea. So I’m sitting here this evening to bring us together, in that commitment.

He knew the path had sharp thorns

And jaggered rocks. He knew it wasn’t easy

Still, he wouldn’t be a cheater

“Embrace purity,” he said, once, twice, thrice, “Embrace purity.”

And I am ready to give every individual his space for his character but there is no room for maya, of course. And whatever maya comes in, I am understanding but when I’m only understanding and holding your hand then I’m cheating you because Krsna will keep you in the material world for your maya… I understand you can’t finish your rounds. You are tired. But Krsna wants pure devotional service. Krsna wants surrender! And when personal weakness is there, take more shelter. The problem is not our personal weakness; the problem is we don’t take shelter… At the end of the day, we have to take advantage of the opportunity and embrace purity… Thus our understanding of what purity is becomes refined and we have to embrace it. That is actually the purpose of our relationship, the purpose is our purity to live a life according to the will of Krsna.

It was words they didn’t want to hear

It was truth he had to say

For as time had aged his body

He could not continue the same way

I wrote letters to you asking for some privacy besides explaining my situation because I could not just put in all that energy which I have for all these years. For the last 20 years, I have travelled 4 million km and I have many, many times given two, three sometimes four lectures a day. I have met with so many people. I think that was the madhya lila. I think it is over now… Now, it is the beginning of the antya lila.  Exactly what the antya lila will look like and how long it will be, that is up to Krsna.

I do notice that I have to consolidate my energy a bit. I compare it to a karate movie where you see these karate heroes doing different kicks and moves and everything and then at the end, the old Zen master comes out and he doesn’t move very much but he just has that chi, concentrated energy, and he just like throws that chi with more result… I see myself going in that direction: less energy but more condensed… less lectures but maybe deeper, maybe stronger, less flying, less visitors, less driving, less…

And although time had changed the tide

He remained focussed, devoted and wise

He thought of the legacy he would leave behind

A life time of service – fructifying in a meditation – now on paper crystalized

So, for a little while, I was on death row… I was thinking, if I would die now… the one regret was that I didn’t finish my books. This is something really lacking… To actually write some proper books because I think those books will live beyond me. That is what I want to focus on now coming out of this experience – to produce something substantial. It is time for change. But not for a change in our relationship as guru-disciple… That will remain… Rather those relationships should also be deepened.

I want you to embrace the struggle, he said

And for Prabhupada, something you must do

I will rise to the occasion, he said

And you must rise too

I’m going through the motions of what being in the material world is like for all of us. I have a material body and it goes through the motions. Whatever circumstances will come about, I will rise to the occasion, that is my determination! As far as my relationship with you all is concerned, ultimately it has to come to quality from all sides. It is the quality which counts. From my side, I have to rise to the occasion of really going deeper and deeper in my relationship with Krsna and then sharing that with you as a spiritual master and you have to rise to the occasion of being serious devotees, on your own initiative. Conquer the weakness. And when personal weakness is there in following spiritual standards, take more shelter.

As he turned to leave the place

That for long had been a healing nest

He gazed with eyes that spoke… prayers maybe?

To all who had served him, a loving guest

Yet he didn’t look back, no he never does

Marching forward, mission minded

Ever will be & ever was

 

Albums:

Rama Naumi

Initiation Ceremony

Disciple Program 

We would like to acknowledge the following devotees who took audio recordings and photos while Kadamba Kanana Swami was in Durban: Nimai, Vibhu Caitanya Das, Merumala dd and Naimisaranya dd. 

Revitalized Govinda’s Restaurant
→ New Vrindaban

(New Vrindaban, West Virginia, March 28th, 2016)- Govinda’s Restaurant, the only vegetarian and vegan restaurant in the Ohio Valley area officially opened for the season on Friday, March 25th, to the delight of visitors and locals alike, having been closed for the winter. This hidden gem, tucked away in the serene Appalachian foothills, is definitely a must go.

Govinda’s Vegetarian Restaurant offers a wide range of menu options for its visitors. While authentic Indian cuisines is the specialty, delicious Italian dishes, including lasagna, pasta and pizza are on the menu. For the not so adventurous palate, American dishes such as veggie burgers and a Philly cheesesteak are also included. Healthier menu options like a new salad bar, green juices and smoothie bar will be added this year, as well as a variety of tasty vegan dishes, such as vegan wraps and daiya cheese pizza.

Most of the vegetables used in these delicious preparations are literally garden fresh and some produce comes directly from New Vrindaban’s organic garden, while almost all of the milk comes from New Vrindaban’s cruelty-free, protected cow program established in 1967. “We use organic, non-GMO foods as much as we can and try to use only the most natural ingredients possible”, says Vasudeva dasa, the General Manager of the restaurant. Soon, he hopes to produce enough vegetables from the local garden to supply the restaurant year round.

Govinda’s recently welcomed new kitchen manager, Dina Mani dasa, who owned two successful restaurants, and brings over 15 years of expertize to the team. He is excited about adding healthier menu options and plans to add to the already robust International menu. Guests will be pleasantly surprised with the affordable menu pricing and selection available. Don’t miss the special buffet offered on weekends priced at just $11.99.

In preparation for the busy year, the restaurant was repainted and renovated with an expanded storage room and kitchen areas, as well as a new dining section that will accommodate more guests. Beautiful new décor was added throughout the restaurant, including paintings, fabrics and elegant lotus lights, that brighten the area.

“I was happy to be greeted by such a cheerful host. I really enjoyed the ambiance and the food was astounding. I hope to get back there soon as this is the only vegetarian restaurant in the area,” says Robert Steltenpool.

From the friendly staff and stunning atmosphere to the amazing gourmet cooking, it is not hard to see why over 20,000 delighted customers visit Govinda’s annually. Govinda’s has been serving delicious international cuisine for over 20 years and is sure to have something for everyone.

Currently, Govinda’s is opened on weekends, Friday – Sunday from 3 pm – 9 pm and beginning May 1st, will be opening from 12 pm – 9 pm every day. The restaurant is conveniently located at 3759 McCrearys Ridge Rd., Moundsville, WV 26041. You can contact us at 304 843-1600 ext.101. https://www.facebook.com/Govindasnv or http://www.palacelodge.com/services.html

Harinama in Chinatown Yokohama, Japan (Album with photos) Srila…
→ Dandavats



Harinama in Chinatown Yokohama, Japan (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: By chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, we gradually develop our eternal relationship with the Supreme Person and thus attain the perfection called svarupa-siddhi. We should take advantage of this benediction and go back home, back to Godhead. (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 10.3.37 Purport )
Find them here: https://goo.gl/TmLTEs

Mayapur Institute – Graduation Ceremony 2015-16
→ Dandavats

Graduation Ceremony 2015-16
157 students earn bhakti degrees

5th March 2016 was an important milestone in the history of Mayapur Institute. The institute celebrated its 15th graduation ceremony at the Pancatatva extension hall.

The Director, Padmanayana das, informed that the Mayapur Institute started in the year 2000 with just 3 Bhakti Sastri students and today after 15 years of operation, 157 students from 30 different countries are receiving graduation certificates. To date, 2500 students have graduated from Mayapur Institute. Definitely, this must be a great joy to Srila Prabhupada. Mayapur Institute is fulfilling Srila Prabhupada’s vision sincerely over the last 15 years.

At the ceremony, certificates were awarded to all students in the following groups: Bhakti shastri (men), Bhakti shastri  (ladies), Bhakti Shastri (Russian language), part-time Bhakti Shastri for Resident devotees, Bhakti Shastri (Bengali) and Bhakti Vaibhava. From last 2 decades, we have been continuously endeavouring to  provide  a conducive environment that helps our students to deepen their understanding of  Krishna consciousness. Students get to understand the principles and practices of Krishna consciousness philosophy  from a wide range of perspectives by developing thoughtfulness and  introspection.

The convocation was graced by many prominent ISKCON leaders and educators like HH Bhakti Vighna Vinasa Narasimha Swami, HH Bhakti Caitanya Swami, HH Subhag Swami,  HH Bhakti Rasamrita Swami, HH Bhakti Brhat Bhagavata Swami, HH Bhati Dhira Damodar Swami and HG Laxmimoni Mataji, who shared the words of wisdom and extended blessings to the students.

HH Bhakti Vighna Vinasa Narasimha Swami  recollected the introduction of systematic sastric study in ISKCON. Initially HH Satsvarupa dasa Goswami would set the exam, there were no classes,  exams were based on elementary philosophy and the students who passed were given the  Bhakti shastri degree certificates. Later a team of devotees from China Tour were called, who went through rigorous classes during the kartik month in Vrindavan under expert educators like HH Tamal Krishna Goswami Maharaj, Bhurijan Prabhu, Ravindra Swarup Prabhu and Satyanarayan Prabhu.  Over the years the Bhakti sastri program has been developed into a systematic study and training course. Education is  very  important. If we look at the countries in the world, every country in the world has a budget and in that budget a major portion  is for education. ISKCON should also have a budget for education.

The whole idea of studying the courses like Bhakti sastri and others is to educate people to scrutinizingly study Srila Prabhupada’s books and help them to appreciate what is there in Srila Prabhupada’s books. University is the place where the professors learn more as they teach. Maharaj mentioned that he is greatly enriched by being able to present some of the courses at Mayapur Institute. He further said “It is so enriching to come to a place like this and be with devotees, who are serious in studying Srila Prabhupada’s books and spend few hours with them every day to go through the different sections in a systematic manner.”

Over the years Mayapur Institute has seen many students coming here, getting trained and rendering wonderful services  after returning to their respective places. Maharaj  wished that  every  student be engaged in  the wonderful service of Srila Prabhupada.  He  expressed that  after  getting  initiation, one does not become a pure devotee immediately, but it marks the beginning of the journey. Similarly,  this certificate is just a beginning and it does not mean you know everything. We should always be willing to learn more and understand more. If we keep that humble mood, then our study here will be a success.
 

HH Bhakti Chaitanya  Maharaj mentioned how he had studied Nectar of Devotion 4-5 times but when he attended HH Giriraj  Maharaj’s class, he realised he did not know anything. Maharaj also reiterated the point that the best way to learn is to teach.

HHBBBSMHH Bhakti Brihat Bhagavat Swami  explained how there is a difference between studying on electronic gadgets and studying holding the traditional book or granth in the hand. Maharaj also expressed that how teaching at Mayapur Institute has always nourished him. 

HH Subhag  Maharaj expressed that it is responsibility of all members of ISKCON to scrutinizingly study Srila Prabhupada’s books and become Brahmanas by quality. Maharaj  appreciated  Mayapur Institute for creating so many brahmanas through its various courses.

HH Bhakti Rasamrita Swami mentioned how he has been witnessing Mayapur Institute from the stage of its inception and how it has grown to a flourishing educational institute that it is today, having a worldwide reputation. Definitely it is a matter of great joy for all of us. Srila Prabhupada must be extremely happy to see so many courses and programs going on and devotees in large numbers coming here every year to study. Maharaj then mentioned that knowledge is connected to the mode of goodness and feature of mode of goodness is happiness. So, when one acquires knowledge he feels happy and when one acquires knowledge about Krishna, which is transcendental to the mode of goodness then one feels transcendental happiness. Maharaj then wished that we could do such activities more and more, all day along, every day of our life. Maharaj concluded by saying that by implementing this knowledge in one’s life and disseminating it to others, one can try to repay his or her debt to Mayapur Institute. 

HH Bhakti Dhira Damodar Maharaj mentioned that hearing realisations from senior devotees’ is always beneficial. Now, after returning to our respective places, we should try to practice what we have studied. We may speak very nice philosophy, but unless we practice what we speak, we are not going to make an impact. Study and practice goes together.  

HG Laxmimoni Mataji explained that it is important to imbibe the teachings from these courses in our life in order to share it with others. Mataji, implored all the students to be the carriers of scriptures. She explained how many people got attracted to the ISKCON movement by the personality of Srila Prabhupada. It is actually the character and quality of the devotee that attracts people to Krishna consciousness. Mataji, then encouraged all students to take what they got in these courses and let it go deep in their life and become manifest into actions,  qualities,  behaviour and then become an instrument to inspire others in Krishna consciousness.

Students speak out:

“It has been 12 years, I wanted to come to Mayapur and take up Bhakti Sastri course at MI. We were able to do it this time, taking off from our busy preaching and management services. I was thinking of doing this course online, but we gained immensely by doing this course staying here in Sri Mayapur Dham for 4 months. The association of many senior devotees and Sanyasis is very enlivening and nourishing. We get to ask questions, hear from them. We got deeper insights into the scriptures and we now realised many mistakes that we used to do in our preaching. Such systematic education is very essential.”  – Rupesvar Gaur Das, Temple President, Kathmandu, Nepal, Bhakti Sastri (Men) 

“Earlier I did correspondence Bhakti sastri course from VIHE. There is a gulf of difference in live courses and online or correspondence courses. This time when I did Bhakti Vaibhava Course from MI, I could experience it. We get to speak to different experienced teachers, co-students, and share our understandings. It is very enlivening. I was thinking that I know many things, but as I went through the course, I realised I did not know anything.” – Ravigopal Das, Bhakti Vaibhava Student    

“The Bhakti Sastri course is the best thing that happened to me in my spiritual life. Coming to Mayapur and studying in the association of devotees really transformed me. When teachers are more experienced, students are also more enthusiastic to study. It is the most powerful experience of my life. I am very grateful to the teachers and fellow students” – Bhakta Josh, Bhakti Sastri (Men) 


“One of the great experience I had during my Bhakti Sastri course is association of so many wonderful devotees” – Bhaktin Barbara Gasser, Bhakti Sastri (Ladies)

Besides the inspiring words of above prominent speakers and students sharing their experiences, the occasion was also graced by a kirtan and drama by Bhakti sastri students. HG Atul Krsna Prabhu palyed the role of MC for the program. Padmanayana prabhu concluded the program by thanking all the dignitaries and students for attending and making the graduation ceremony a grand success.
 

Facebook

Website

YouTube

Google Plus

Twitter

LinkedIn

Pinterest

Tumblr

Email

Copyright © *|2016|* *|Mayapur Institute|*, All rights reserved.

Contact – +91 (3472) 245 784 Web – www.mayapurinstitute.org

This year, 2016, is the 50th anniversary of ISKCON. To mark…
→ Dandavats



This year, 2016, is the 50th anniversary of ISKCON.
To mark this significant milestone in ISKCON’s history, ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry will be holding the inaugural European Head Pujari Sanga in Zurich with HG Nrsimha Kavaca Prabhu.
The sanga will take place from 16-17 June, 2016.
Some of the goals of this sanga are:
Get to know other head pujaris.
Hone your skills as a pujari and a leader.
Become inspired and more effective in our service.
Associate with representatives of ISKCON Deity Worship Ministry
Participate in formulating IDWM targets and goals… and much more!

Kumari Mayshark Patel Wins Dance Competition. The Cleveland…
→ Dandavats



Kumari Mayshark Patel Wins Dance Competition.
The Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival
Anapayini Jakupko: On a whim my sister Komala Kumari decided to participate in a dance completion. This competition is part of the most prestigious South Indian performing arts festival in the US- The Cleveland Thyagaraja festival. Her application was accepted even though it was a day late. She performed on Saturday part of the 1st round of her age group. She was one of 5 finalists to move to the 2nd and final round. On Sunday she performed again and charmed all the judges and won the Competition! So proud of this girl and so blessed to have her as my sister.
This from her teacher Indira Kadambi, “I am very happy and proud to share with you all that my american student Komala Kumari Mayshark Patel won this year’s Cleveland Thyagaraja festival -dance competition. Hailing from a family of krishna devotees, she initially learnt from her sister Anapayini Jakupko who was my first student to do arangetram way back in 1998. Later Kumari continued her journey with me and did her arangetram few years back in Chennai. God bless you Kumari and may you keep dancing for ever at the feet of Lord Krishna.”

Harinama and prasadam distribution, Food For Life – 18.04.2016,…
→ Dandavats



Harinama and prasadam distribution, Food For Life - 18.04.2016, in Warsaw, Poland (Album with photos)
Cooked: Syamadarshana priya dasi
They assisted: bh. Serge and Sasabindu das
Kirtan: Ananta Nitay Das, Syamadarshana priya dasi, bhk. Vedana, bhk. Julia, Sasabind das, bhk. Katia, bhk. Susan
Distribution of prasadam: bh.Nelavati bh. Maciek,
Leaflets and books: bh. Sururia Kunda Das, bhk. Katarzyna and bh. Vodlodie
Driver: Suria Kunda das
Photos: bhk. Dorota
Donations of action: 9.01zł
Donation of sunday: 299,24zł
Thank you very much for donations on the last Sunday. Thank you all for helping our action.
Find them here: https://goo.gl/o9eBMF

Revitalized Govinda’s Vegetarian Restaurant in New Vrindaban
→ Dandavats

By Abhay Charan dasa

IMG_9424 (1)

Govinda’s Restaurant, the only vegetarian and vegan restaurant in the Ohio Valley area, officially opened for the season on Friday, March 25th, to the delight of visitors and locals alike, having been closed for the winter. This hidden gem, tucked away in the serene Appalachian foothills, is definitely a must go.

Govinda’s Vegetarian Restaurant offers a wide range of menu options for its visitors. While authentic Indian cuisines is the specialty, delicious Italian dishes, including lasagna, pasta and pizza are on the menu. For the not so adventurous palate, American dishes such as veggie burgers and a Philly cheesesteak are also included. Healthier menu options like a new salad bar, green juices and smoothie bar will be added this year, as well as a variety of tasty vegan dishes, such as vegan wraps and Daiya cheese pizza.

Weekend Buffet

Weekend Buffet at Govinda’s

Most of the vegetables used in these delicious preparations are literally garden fresh and some produce comes directly from New Vrindaban’s organic garden, while almost all of the milk comes from New Vrindaban’s cruelty-free, protected cow program established in 1967. “We use organic, non-GMO foods as much as we can and try to use only the most natural ingredients possible”, says Vasudeva dasa, the General Manager of the restaurant. Soon, he hopes to produce enough vegetables from the local garden to supply the restaurant year round.

Kitchen Manager, Dina Mani dasa

Kitchen Manager, Dina Mani dasa

Govinda’s recently welcomed new kitchen manager, Dina Mani dasa, who owned two successful restaurants, and brings over 15 years of expertize to the team. He is excited about adding healthier menu options and plans to add to the already robust International menu. Guests will be pleasantly surprised with the affordable menu pricing and selection available. Don’t miss the special buffet offered on weekends priced at just $11.99.

In preparation for the busy year, the restaurant was repainted and renovated with an expanded storage room and kitchen areas, as well as a new dining section that will accommodate more guests. Beautiful new décor was added throughout the restaurant, including paintings, fabrics and elegant lotus lights, that brighten the area.

Renovated Dinning Hall

Renovated Dinning Hall

“I was happy to be greeted by such a cheerful host. I really enjoyed the ambiance and the food was astounding. I hope to get back there soon as this is the only vegetarian restaurant in the area,” says Robert Steltenpool.

From the friendly staff and stunning atmosphere to the amazing gourmet cooking, it is not hard to see why over 20,000 delighted customers visit Govinda’s annually. Govinda’s has been serving delicious international cuisine for over 20 years and is sure to have something for everyone.

Currently, Govinda’s is opened on weekends, Friday – Sunday from 3 pm – 9 pm and beginning May 1st, will be opening from 12 pm – 9 pm every day. The restaurant is conveniently located at 3759 McCrearys Ridge Rd., Moundsville, WV 26041. You can contact us at 304 843-1600 ext.101. https://www.facebook.com/Govindasnv or http://www.palacelodge.com/services.html

ISKCON Kumbha Mela Ujjain 2016. The celebration of Kumbh Mela…
→ Dandavats



ISKCON Kumbha Mela Ujjain 2016.
The celebration of Kumbh Mela takes place at the four sacred places as per the position of Sun and Jupiter in different zodiac signs. Poorna Kumbh is held at Ujjain once in every 12 years when the zodiac sign Scorpio (Vrishchik Rashi) indicates the presence of Jupiter and Sun. Ujjain is located at the bank of Shipra River in western region of Madhya Pradesh and is seen as one of the most sacred places in India. The city is enriched with several religious shrines such as Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, Mahakaleshwar, Vikram Kirti Temple and many others. On the occasion of Kumbh Mela the divinity and spiritual aroma of Ujjain meets its highest peak when millions of pilgrims take dips and worship sacred River Shipra. Sages and devotees from every nook and corner attend the religious ceremony of Kumbh Mela to attain salvation and libration from the vicious cycle of birth-death-rebirth. According The commemoration of Mela at Ujjain is known as ‘Simhastha Kumbh Mela’ in which the unique combination of divinity and purity is experienced when the crowd of ash-dubbed sages, priests, devotees gets fused together with the roaring of elephants and camels. People who witness the spiritual fest feel good fortune by their side and sense positive aroma purifying their souls and thoughts. Major attraction of this festival is ‘Shahi Snan’ (royal bath) which takes place on predetermined dates varying every year. It is believed that those who take royal bath in holy Shipra River on the occasion of Kumbh Mela wash their sins of all previous births. The devotees consider it as an opportunity to get them revived from the never ending birth cycle.
To read the entire article click here: http://goo.gl/Rrlzq2

Bengal Milk Sweets. Kripamoya das: Although such delicious…
→ Dandavats



Bengal Milk Sweets.
Kripamoya das: Although such delicious dishes are prepared all over India, nowhere is more famous for milk sweets than Bengal, where sweet making has been raised to a fine art. Bengal was once known as Gor-Desh or ‘the sweet country,’ and it is customary in that region, even today, to celebrate all of life’s major events with the sharing of a plate of delicious milk sweets. From the strained, caramelised yogurt known as Misti-dahi, through the thickened, condensed milks of Khir and Rabri, to the soft, kneaded cheese of Sandesh, the sweetened and spiced fudges of Burfi andPera, and the delicate, sponge-like textured Rasagulla and Cham-cham, the range of sweets and the varieties of flavours is vast. The British in Victorian India were not immune to the allure of Bengali sweets, and the famous confectioners of the day, household names such as K.C.Das were all patronised by the well-to-do members of the Raj. When the wife of the Viceroy, Lady Canning, celebrated her birthday, one sweet maker came up with a novel design for her. By cooking a traditional rasagulla in ghee, the sweet turned golden in colour and the flavour took on a delicate nuance. Still popular today, the celebratory confection is now known by the Bengali version of the aristocrat’s name: the Ledikenni.
To read the entire article click here: https://goo.gl/kis42Y

How Pancaratrika-vidhi and Bhagavat-vidhi fit together
→ Dandavats

Hare KrishnaBy Damodara-priya Devi Dasi

There are two tracks (vidhis) required to walk safely on the spiritual path, as Srila Prabhupada often mentioned: In the same way as the physical train needs two parallel tracks, also the train of bhakti needs two tracks: one is the bhagavatvidhi or the path of sravanam and kirtana, also known as rag-marg and the pancaratrika-vidhi or the path of arcana, also known as vidhi-marg. When Srila Prabhupada came to the West to teach Krishna-consciousness, he first introduced the religion of this age: chanting Hare Krishna, in order to create a taste in the young devotees for hearing and chanting. Only after some time he started to introduce the process of arcanam or Deity-worship. He explained to his students that arcanam is a necessary part of devotional service. “…The Pancaratrika system acts on the sudra class of men, supposedly the population of the Kali-yuga, and it is the prescribed purificatory process suitable to the age and time. Such a purificatory process is allowed only for spiritual upliftment and not for any other purpose. Spiritual upliftment is never conditioned by higher or lower parentage….” (SB 1.12.13p) Continue reading "How Pancaratrika-vidhi and Bhagavat-vidhi fit together
→ Dandavats"

​Krishna’s beauty brings unity amidst diversity – Meditation on Venkatesh Stotram 6
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Answer Podcast


Download by “right-click and save content”

The post ​Krishna’s beauty brings unity amidst diversity – Meditation on Venkatesh Stotram 6 appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

Facilitate devotional creativity – Address at Children’s Ratha Yatra in Singapore
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Address at Children’s Ratha Yatra in Singapore

Podcast


Download by “right-click and save content”

The post Facilitate devotional creativity – Address at Children’s Ratha Yatra in Singapore appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

​Shakespeare seen in the light of the bhakti tradition
→ The Spiritual Scientist

​Address at World Literary E-conference on the 400th death anniversary of Shakespeare

Podcast


Download by “right-click and save content”

The post ​Shakespeare seen in the light of the bhakti tradition appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

If Krishna loves us unconditionally, why has he created bad things such as alcohol?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Answer Podcast


Download by “right-click and save content”

The post If Krishna loves us unconditionally, why has he created bad things such as alcohol? appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

Why do people blame women – Draupadi and Sita – for the epic’s wars?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Answer Podcast


Download by “right-click and save content”

The post Why do people blame women – Draupadi and Sita – for the epic’s wars? appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

Our Wonderful Gujarat (Album with photos) Deena Bandhu Das: The…
→ Dandavats



Our Wonderful Gujarat (Album with photos)
Deena Bandhu Das: The day before Ram Naumi, as part of the Ram Naumi Festival in ISKCON Ahmedabad, a local group presented Amari Gunavanti Gujarat, Our Wonderful Gujarat displaying the folk arts of Gujarat. Started with a London NRI Jack Bhai coming to visit the land of his parents for the first time and two villagers take him on a cultural tour! Enjoy Vittalrukmini’s colorful pics!
Find them here: https://goo.gl/sy5vFx

April 23. ISKCON 50 – S.Prabhupada Daily Meditations. Satsvarupa…
→ Dandavats



April 23. ISKCON 50 – S.Prabhupada Daily Meditations.
Satsvarupa dasa Goswami: Mukti Brahmacari.
One day a curious, unsolicited correspondent wrote to Prabhupada from India. His name was Mukti Brahmacari. Introducing himself as a disciple of one of Prabhupada’s godbrothers, and reminding Prabhupada of their past slight acquaintance, Mukti wrote of his eagerness to join Prabhupada in America. Prabhupada still had hopes for getting assistance from his godbrothers in India – “This mission is not simply one man’s work.” Therefore, he invited Mukti to come to America and asked him to request his guru to cooperate by working personally to secure government sanction for the release of foreign exchange.
Mukti submitted the entire proposal before his spiritual master, who, as Mukti predicted, cancelled the trip. Although Mukti’s guru was Srila Prabhupada’s godbrother, he did not want to be involved and he doubted that Prabhupada would actually get a donation from Padampat Singhania.
And now Mukti Brahmacari also doubted: “If your program is not bona fide, the approach to a big personality will be a ludicrous one no doubt.”
On the same day that Prabhupada received the “ludicrous” letter, he also received the final blow of noncooperation from the Indian government. Second Secretary Prakash Shah of the Indian Embassy in Washington D.C. wrote:
Due to existing conditions of foreign exchange stringency, it is not possible for the government of India to accede to your request for release of foreign exchange. You may perhaps like to raise funds from residents in America.
It was confirmed: Prabhupada would have to work without outside help. He would continue alone in New York City. His last letter to Mukti Brahmacari reveals his deep faith and determination.
To read the entire article click here: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=20490&page=7

Grand Opening Ceremony of the New U.S. TOVP Office
- TOVP.org

On Thursday, April 14th, in conjunction with the auspicious appearance day of Lord Ramachandra, the new U.S. TOVP office celebrated its Grand Opening in Alachua, Florida. The new office is located in a house donated exclusively for TOVP use by Ambarisa prabhu and will serve as the communications and fundraising headquarters. The celebration also coincides with the formation of the new U.S. non-profit, TOVP Foundation Inc., whose Chairman is Sesa das, also the newly appointed Chairman of the GBC.

The function was attended by several local senior devotees including Sesa das, Alachua Temple President, Mukhya devi dasi, Kirtiraja das, Ramanya das, and several others, along with Ambarisa and Svaha prabhus and TOVP Director of Development and Fundraising, Vraja Vilas das, who came all the way from Mayapur to help organize the opening of the new office.

[See image gallery at tovp.org]

The Grand Opening schedule included kirtan and greeting of devotees, Sankalpa and Rakshabandhan, a full fire yajna, Purnahuti, coconut breaking, official ribbon cutting and prasadam. These auspicious yajnas were performed for the pleasure of Srila Prabhupada, the previous acharyas and Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu to invoke their blessings and mercy for the successful execution of the TOVP seva not only in the U.S. but all over the world.

It is imperative that within the next several years all ISKCON devotees focus on this project and make it their personal sankalpa to see that the TOVP Grand Opening scheduled for Gaur Purnima 2022 is achieved. For such an important and historic endeavor as this we will individually and collectively be benefited, and will also witness the remarkable effects the TOVP will have on the peoples of the entire world.

[See image gallery at tovp.org]

“If you build this temple Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur will personally come and take you back to Godhead”

Srila Prabhupada

“This temple is already built. If you don’t do the work someone else will come and take the credit. So you do it and get the credit”

Srila Prabhupada

Please view the video and photos of the event included with this article. For further information about donating in the U.S. or to re-start your previously made pledge go to: https://tovp.org/donate/

The post Grand Opening Ceremony of the New U.S. TOVP Office appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

Happy Mother Earth Day!
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!

April 22nd is recognized as Earth Day around the world.  As practitioners of the Hare Krishna faith, the honouring and respecting of Mother Earth is intrinsic to our belief.  Below is a very nice article from krishna.com about "Mother Earth Day":

Mother Earth Day
By: Manorama das

Devotees of Krishna respect the Earth as the energy of God and as one of our mothers. By the will of God she provides the materials our bodies are made of, as well as food and shelter to maintain them. The clothes we wear, the buildings we inhabit, and the computers we use to read this article are all manufactured from her elements.

The sacred Vedas describe our interdependent relationship. If we live in harmony with our mother, take only as much as we need for our subsistence, and use whatever she provides in our Father's service, peace and prosperity increase. However, when we exploit the earth, plundering her resources for ungodly purposes, we become thieves, liable to be punished. She withholds her bounty. Natural disasters, wars and catastrophes increase, resulting in scarcity of food and suffering.

Humanitarian relief efforts and charitable causes ("save the rain forest," for example) address the symptoms of the Earth's problems. Such efforts do little to reduce the underlying greed and envy that cause human beings to exploit one another and the Earth, resulting in one nation living in prosperity at the expense (and pollution) of another.

Therefore saintly persons advise that the best recourse to save our planet from disaster is to revive God consciousness, Krishna consciousness among the people. Krishna consciousness means to become aware that everything produced by the Earth is God's energy; it belongs to God and should be used in His service. We're all interconnected as brothers and sisters and have responsibilities to one another, Mother Earth and Father God. Krishna consciousness means that all creatures - human beings, animals, trees, plants, rivers, mountains, and oceans - are God's creatures, are sacred, and deserve our care and respect.

Revitalized Govinda’s Vegetarian Restaurant in New Vrindaban
→ New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit

By Abhay Charan dasa

IMG_9424 (1)

(New Vrindaban, West Virginia, March 28th, 2016)- Govinda’s Restaurant, the only vegetarian and vegan restaurant in the Ohio Valley area, officially opened for the season on Friday, March 25th, to the delight of visitors and locals alike, having been closed for the winter. This hidden gem, tucked away in the serene Appalachian foothills, is definitely a must go.

Govinda’s Vegetarian Restaurant offers a wide range of menu options for its visitors. While authentic Indian cuisines is the specialty, delicious Italian dishes, including lasagna, pasta and pizza are on the menu. For the not so adventurous palate, American dishes such as veggie burgers and a Philly cheesesteak are also included. Healthier menu options like a new salad bar, green juices and smoothie bar will be added this year, as well as a variety of tasty vegan dishes, such as vegan wraps and Daiya cheese pizza.

Weekend Buffet

Weekend Buffet at Govinda’s

Most of the vegetables used in these delicious preparations are literally garden fresh and some produce comes directly from New Vrindaban’s organic garden, while almost all of the milk comes from New Vrindaban’s cruelty-free, protected cow program established in 1967. “We use organic, non-GMO foods as much as we can and try to use only the most natural ingredients possible”, says Vasudeva dasa, the General Manager of the restaurant. Soon, he hopes to produce enough vegetables from the local garden to supply the restaurant year round.

Kitchen Manager, Dina Mani dasa

Kitchen Manager, Dina Mani dasa

Govinda’s recently welcomed new kitchen manager, Dina Mani dasa, who owned two successful restaurants, and brings over 15 years of expertize to the team. He is excited about adding healthier menu options and plans to add to the already robust International menu. Guests will be pleasantly surprised with the affordable menu pricing and selection available. Don’t miss the special buffet offered on weekends priced at just $11.99.

In preparation for the busy year, the restaurant was repainted and renovated with an expanded storage room and kitchen areas, as well as a new dining section that will accommodate more guests. Beautiful new décor was added throughout the restaurant, including paintings, fabrics and elegant lotus lights, that brighten the area.

Renovated Dinning Hall

Renovated Dinning Hall

“I was happy to be greeted by such a cheerful host. I really enjoyed the ambiance and the food was astounding. I hope to get back there soon as this is the only vegetarian restaurant in the area,” says Robert Steltenpool.

From the friendly staff and stunning atmosphere to the amazing gourmet cooking, it is not hard to see why over 20,000 delighted customers visit Govinda’s annually. Govinda’s has been serving delicious international cuisine for over 20 years and is sure to have something for everyone.

Currently, Govinda’s is opened on weekends, Friday – Sunday from 3 pm – 9 pm and beginning May 1st, will be opening from 12 pm – 9 pm every day. The restaurant is conveniently located at 3759 McCrearys Ridge Rd., Moundsville, WV 26041. You can contact us at 304 843-1600 ext.101. https://www.facebook.com/Govindasnv or http://www.palacelodge.com/services.html

Ratha-Yatra Launch Day – Sunday, May 1, 2016
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!

With warmer weather finally here, the excitement surrounding the 44th Annual Festival of India (Ratha-Yatra) is growing as each day passes!

Sunday, May 1, 2016 will mark the official launch of the countdown to this year's festival! The program will begin at 6:00pm and will continue to 9:00pm (extended program).

A special feature of the festival will be the chance for all devotees to observe a special fire yajna wherein auspicious mantras are recited and grains are offered into fire!

The festival schedule will be as follows (subject to change):
6:00pm to 6:30pm - Kirtan (Arati)
6:30pm to 6:35pm - Announcements
6:35pm to 6:55pm - Welcome by Bhaktimarga Swami
6:55pm to 7:40pm - Fire Yajna Ceremony
7:40pm to 8:00pm - Ratha-Yatra 2016 Presentation
8:00pm to 8:30pm - Kirtan (Arati)
8:30pm - Vegetarian Feast (Prasadam)

We’re Looking for Website Contributors
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!

As our temple website continues to grow, we are looking for enthusiastic members of our community to contribute regularly! If you are interested in being part of our team, we'd love to hear from you!

Maybe you have some neat recipes to share, or want to share Krsna conscious videos, or even have some wonderfully crazy idea that we just haven't thought of. Now's your chance to contribute!

If you have some neat idea to bring to the table, or if you just want to join the team, please feel free to fill out the form below!  Hare Krsna!


Festival Report – Rama Navami 2016
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!

On Friday, April 15th, devotees gathered at Toronto's Hare Krishna Temple to celebrate the appearance of Lord Ramachandra.

Lord Ramachandra is Krishna's avatar who ruled the earth as the ideal king. He appeared more than two million years ago. The history of Lord Ramachandra's pastimes is recounted by the sage Valmiki in his epic Ramayana.

The festival began with wonderful kirtan and while the crowd was small, it quickly grew as devotees arrived for the festivities.  A very nice class was given by Mahabhagavat das as he read from the Ninth Canto of the Srimad Bhagavatam.  His class helped to paint a wonderful picture of the glories of Lord Rama.

Following the class, a unique interactive feature was in store for all the assembled devotees.  With the Temple Room now filled, a special "Lord Rama Game Show" was held!  With some fun background music, questions about the pastimes of Lord Rama were put out to the crowd and devotees fell over themselves as they raised their hands to give answers.  The prize for a correct answer? A banana which was offered to our beautiful Deities!

A delicious feast then awaited all the assembled devotees and the program finished with an enthusiastic kirtan.  The evening provided a great opportunity for all the devotees to come together and celebrate the glories of Lord Rama!


Northampton Festival, UK – April 2016 (Album with photos) Srila…
→ Dandavats



Northampton Festival, UK - April 2016 (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: People should be given the chance to hear the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra, but in the beginning they should not be instructed about the glories or the spiritual significance of the holy name. By constant hearing of the holy name, their hearts will be purified, and then they will be able to understand the transcendental position of the holy name. (Sri-Caitanya-caritamrta, Adi-lila, 8.21 Purport)
Find them here: https://goo.gl/UJw45W