Websites from the ISKCON Universe
Sacred Sound Kirtan Retreat (7 min video)
Indradyumna Swami: Video coverage of the blissful Sacred Sound Kirtan Retreat at New Govardhan in Australia. Devotees came from all over the country to chant and dance together in one of ISKCON’s largest communities nestled in the beautiful green rolling hills of New South Wales.
Watch it here: https://goo.gl/P52ZLw
Every year I make my personal finances public. Attached is an accounting of my finances for 2015.
Jayadvaita Swami 2015 financial report
The post My personal finances, 2015 appeared first on Jayadvaita Swami.
Bharat’s Cultural Conquest: New Short Film on Srila Prabhupada (7 min video)
- New FULL HD film on Srila Prabhupada
- Launch on Pune Youth Festival 2016 in front of 20000 Youth.
- Film by ISKCON Pune, in Association with Hare Krishna Media
- Film made by Hare Krishna Media
- English Language
- 7 Mins.
Watch it here: https://goo.gl/1xq9vr
March 27. ISKCON 50 – S.Prabhupada Daily Meditations.
Satsvarupa dasa Goswami: One is Free to Regard His Talks As He Likes.
Although his audience may be momentarily enamored by what appears to be a description of Indian social customs, a careful listener can grasp the greater context of Prabhupada’s speech: everyone must accept a spiritual master. It’s a heavy topic for a casual audience. What is the need of taking a spiritual master? Isn’t this just for India? But he says, “Everyone should have a spiritual master.” What is a spiritual master, anyway? Maybe he means that accepting a spiritual master is just another cultural item from Hinduism, like the sacred thread, or the part in a woman’s hair, or the widow’s dress. The audience can easily regard the discussion as a kind of cultural exposition, just as one comfortably watches a film about the living habits of people in a foreign land, although one has no intention of adapting those habits as one’s own. The Swami is wearing one of those threads on his body, but that’s for Hindus, and it doesn’t mean that Americans should wear them. But these Hindu beliefs are interesting.
Actually, Prabhupada has no motive but to present the Absolute Truth as he has heard it in disciplic succession. But if anyone in that railroad car-shaped room were to ask himself, “Should I surrender to a spiritual master?” he would be confronted by the existential presence of a genuine guru. One is free to regard his talk as one likes.
To read the entire article click here: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=20490&page=6
One is Free to Regard His Talks As He Likes
Harinama in Philippines (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: One is understood to be an eternal servant of the Supreme Personality of Godhead if he considers himself a servant of the holy name and in this spirit distributes the holy name to the world. (Sri-Caitanya-caritamrta, Adi-lila, 8.16 Purport)
Find them here: https://goo.gl/PSMVRR
By GBC College Staff
From Beijing to Belgium, from Bulgaria to Buenos Aires, from Canada to Karnataka, from Nairobi to Naperville, from Istanbul to England, From Delhi to Gaborone, to Slovenia, to Switzerland, to Ecuador, to Romania, Poland, etc., four dozen leaders assembled in the Govardhan Ecovillage outside of Mumbai, learning for thirteen days at the GBC College for Leadership Development how to serve as Zonal Supervisors.
Among the teachers were three GBC members and three more disciples of Srila Prabhupada:
Radhanatha Maharaja, also the host of the program as the local GBC, spoke about the importance of sadhana for leaders and about the mood of chanting japa not just for oneself but for being able to serve one’s constituency and humanity at large.
Bhakti Charu Maharaja gave two lessons, one on the importance of having an institution to spread the message of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu and another highlighting four crucial maxims delineating the four pillars of the movement.
Devamrita Maharaja explored the sensitive and intriguing topic of dealing with the apparently ever-increasing degree of diversity in ISKCON, revealing how to ultimately tame and transcend the centrifugal forces channeling them towards common goals.
Gopal Bhatta Prabhu taught about strategic planning; about marketing Krsna consciousness – which included a section on branding – about ISKCON’s presence online and best practices among devotees’ websites. He also explained how religious movements have to deal with the gradual loss of the original intent, context and instructions as generations of leaders succeed each other.
Garuda Prabhu (Dr. Graham M. Schweig, professor of philosophy and religious studies at Christopher Newport University in the US), spoke about the importance of relations for leaders.
Praharana Devi spoke about the dangers and the little-known realities of pastoral abuse; she also introduced ISKCON Connection, the GBC initiative to connect Srila Prabhupada’s overall international family through ongoing communication and formal general membership.
Rupanuga Prabhu, President of the GBC College and a management professor from America, taught project management that Srila Prabhupäda had endorsed for projects, such as the construction of Juhu Temple, to be done “as professionally and as quickly as possible,”—SP Lilamrita, Vol 6, Chapter 48. He also taught time management, an essential skill for busy leaders and managers.
Gauranga Prabhu, a 2015 graduate of the GBC College and the President of Govardhan Ecovillage, explained the historical and cultural roots of learning from experts and the implementation of the principle in contemporary devotional projects.
The Global Minister for Deity Worship, Nrisimha Kavaca Prabhu, arrived with Jayananda Prabhu – Deity Worship Minister for the US – and introduced the fundamental standards of arcana as well as the relevant ISKCON laws in connection with installing Deities.
Brajamohan Prabhu presented Situational Leadership – the art of dealing with devotees at various levels of readiness – and also provided guidelines on how to execute the plans we make. These are just a couple of the themes he teaches in his professional life to corporate audiences.
Kaunteya Prabhu, Co-Minister of the ISKCON Congregational Development Ministry, spoke about leaders as cultural engineers and on the importance of understanding and harmonizing the interactions among the various ISKCON “ecosystems”: the guru-disciple relation, the organizational needs and dynamics, and the social dimension; the private areas of family, personal economy, etc.
The sweet glance of youthful Sri Sri Radha-Vrindavana Vihari, the idyllic frame of the Vrindavana forest replica – with the seven main temples and the flowing Yamuna – the professional and helpful mood of everyone in the Ecovillage, the natural amenities and the rural setting provided the ideal atmosphere for the training in an environment that is living testimony of inspired leadership. This was the beginning of the one-year course which includes two residential sessions (the next in September-October), a dozen or so online courses and the Action Learning Project, the practical assignment each student will have to complete putting into practice the learning in the classroom.
We look forward to continuously serving these outstanding Vaisnavas as they manage to include the demands of advanced leadership education in their already busy devotional service.
Poems share what we feel
during a particular time
or mood of the day
from a breeze on our face.
We can label it
as good or harsh,
bitter cold or stimulating,
scented or a repelling stench.
We give wings to our experience
using word pictures to communicate
the magic of connecting to
the possibilities of the spirit.
We can invest life in our words
the nuances and flavors of being
what’s ordinarily inexpressible
incredible beyond reason.
Gaura Purnima Festival has been very busy and ecstatic this year.
It all started with the festival inauguration March 5th and blissfully went on until Gaura Purnima day.
Let’s not forget Jaganath Misra’s feast on 24th and 25th of March which provided a sumptuous feast for thousands of devotees and pilgrims who left completely satisfied.
For almost one month, Sri Mayapur Dham was flooded, but this time not by Mother Ganga but by Thousands and Thousands of spirit souls hoping to get some Mercy from the Lord.
Ratha Yatra, Boat festival, Kirtan Mela, Mini Market, Huge International presentation displaying devotional activities done by devotees in their own country around the world, stage performances, daily feasts, and of course Parikrama and Lord Gauranga’s Abhishek.
There was so much to do, it was a daily dilemma to choose which activities to attend every day. We also had most ecstatic Siva Ratri celebrated at in our ISKCON Rajapur Jaganath temple, elephant procession, Daily evening Kirtan , amazing inspiring lectures by our beloved gurus and so much more. It seemed like a year of spiritual activities were compressed in one month! Mayapur is most definitely the most beautiful and inspiring place in the world.
Hare Krsna
Thank you Srila Prabhupada
For more photos: http://www.mayapur.com/2016/gaura-purnima-festival-2016/
Evening Program on Holi : 24-03-2016 (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: To the sincere devotee, this ocean of maya is easily crossed by the cool breeze of Krishna’s Grace. This is our business, to submit to Krishna’s desire to have us back with Him in the eternal sky of Krishna Loka. Letter to Syamasundara, November 24, 1968.
Find them here: https://goo.gl/yxxzSz
Gaura Purnima Festival has been very busy and ecstatic this year. It all started with the festival inauguration March 5th and blissfully went on until Gaura Purnima day. Let’s not forget Jaganath Misra’s feast on 24th and 25th of March which provided a sumptuous feast for thousands of devotees and pilgrims who left completely satisfied. […]
The post Gaura Purnima Festival 2016 appeared first on Mayapur.com.
By Caitanya Carana Dasa “Sexual addiction? What’s that supposed to mean?” “Just as alcoholics don’t have control over their desire for alcohol, sex addicts don’t have control over their sex drive. Drug addicts, for instance, are not necessarily evil or criminal but are in the grip of a habit that makes them act irrationally and sometimes even illegally. So with sex addicts.” “What’s the point of calling it an addiction? That they shouldn’t be held responsible because they are addicted?” “No, being addicted doesn’t mean the addict can’t be held accountable for his or her actions. Alcoholics who assault someone in a drunken stupor are punished, but they are also helped to treat their addiction. Why can’t the same thing be done for those who are not bad people but who do something bad due to lust? Sexual addiction needs to be treated, not neglected by the simplistic division of people into heroes and villains. Sexual addiction can afflict even common people who otherwise lead normal, responsible lives. Sex addicts may be addicted to many distorted forms of sexual expression like stalking, voyeurism, or stripping, but they are most commonly addicted to pornography. Continue reading "Is Sex An Addiction
→ Dandavats"
Gaura Purnima Festival 2016 in Iskcon Kiev, Ukraine (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Because you have given your life to Krishna, you are already perfect. But it is just like the ocean, if you are swimming in it you may swim forever and not reach the shore. Similarly, there is no limit to the perfection of Krishna Consciousness. Letter to Abhirama, November 19, 1971.
Find them here: https://goo.gl/UUqJhN
Vanifun Crossword Puzzles.
We hope you enjoy solving these online interactive crossword puzzles which are made from phrases and words (English and Sanskrit) as used by Srila Prabhupada.
The goal of these puzzles is to expand your English and Sanskrit vocabulary and to come closer to Srila Prabhupada’s teachings by using the Vaniquotes website to find the answer to the clues.
This puzzle is made up of words and phrases (English and Sanskrit) used by Srila Prabhupada. (Some English words have American spelling.)
Click on the first clue to highlight where to type your answer in the crossword and start typing from the yellow square.
Solve it online here: http://goo.gl/ABu3W6
The so-called husbands, political leaders and guardians.
There are many people all over the world—indeed, throughout the universe—who claim for some time that they are husbands, political leaders or guardians, but in due course of time the Supreme Lord desires their removal from their posts, and their careers are immediately finished. Therefore those who are actually learned and advanced in spiritual life do not accept any leader, husband or maintainer other than the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
SB 5.18.20, Translation and Purport:
He alone who is never afraid but who, on the contrary, gives complete shelter to all fearful persons can actually become a husband and protector. Therefore, my Lord, you are the only husband, and no one else can claim this position. If you were not the only husband, You would be afraid of others. Therefore persons learned in all Vedic literature accept only Your Lordship as everyone’s master, and they think no one else a better husband and protector than You.
Here the meaning of husband or guardian is clearly explained, people want to become a husband, a guardian, a governor or a political leader without knowing the actual meaning of such a superior position. There are many people all over the world—indeed, throughout the universe—who claim for some time that they are husbands, political leaders or guardians, but in due course of time the Supreme Lord desires their removal from their posts, and their careers are immediately finished. Therefore those who are actually learned and advanced in spiritual life do not accept any leader, husband or maintainer other than the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Lord Krsna personally states in Bhagavad-gita (18.66), aham tvam sarva-papebhyo moksayisyami: “I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions.” Krsna is not afraid of anyone. On the contrary, everyone is afraid of Krsna. Therefore He can actually give protection to a subordinate living entity. Since so-called leaders or dictators are completely under the control of material nature, they can never give complete protection to others, although they claim this ability due to false prestige. Na te viduh svartha-gatim hi visnum: (SB 7.5.31) people do not know that real advancement in life consists of accepting the Supreme Personality of Godhead as one’s master. Instead of deceiving themselves and others by pretending to be all-powerful, all political leaders, husbands and guardians should spread the Krsna consciousness movement so that everyone can learn how to surrender to Krsna, the supreme husband.
Sacred Sound Kirtan Retreat - Day 2 - 26 March 2016, Australia
(Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu never considered the holy name of the Lord to be a material vibration, nor does any pure devotee mistake the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra to be a material musical manifestation. (Sri Caitanya-caritamrta, Adi-lila, 7.95-96 Purport)
Find them here: https://goo.gl/K5uOLY
Revival of Regular Harinama at New Govardhana, Australia.
In a nutshell, if devotees love Hari Nama and want to please Srila Prabhupada by sharing Lord Caitanya’s mercy, a sojourn on New Govardhana farm in Australia may be just what they have been looking for. Due to the many social changes that ISKCON has undergone over the decades, and the fact that there are much fewer temple devotees than there were in the past, these days most temples don’t have the man-power to hold all-day Hari Nama sankirtan parties, every day of the week. Garuda Das is determined to change this, at least here at New Govardhana. With his small but dedicated kirtan party visiting cities, towns, villages and festivals throughout northern New South Wales and Southern Queensland, local devotees are becoming inspired and the lives of thousands of people who encounter them are being transformed, as they associate with Krishna, appearing as His holy names, and receive Srila Prabhupada’s books. Everyone is welcome to take part, and to experience the fun and magic of this very wonderful sankirtan party.
To read the entire article click here: http://goo.gl/v2P9CE
Hare Krishna At The Bhakti Center | New York City (2 min video)
Srila Prabhupada: There is only one guru—Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead. So those who simply repeat His words, they also become guru. But of course a guru never thinks himself as being God. He only thinks of himself as the servant of the servant of the servant. Letter to Mr. & Mrs. Bhatia, November 23, 1075.
Watch it here: https://goo.gl/g5N8dV
By Kevala Bhakti das
With recent news of the tragic passing of former Mayor of Toronto, Rob Ford, many devotees of Toronto’s Hare Krishna Community have been fondly recalling how the then-Mayor visited our annual Festival of India (Ratha-Yatra) in 2014.
It was the second day of our grand two-day annual event on Centre Island and word quickly got around that the Mayor had arrived at the festival site. He first visited the Deity booth, diligently removed his shoes and then took darshan (audience) of Lord Jagannatha (Lord Krishna). He was then garlanded by one of our pujaris (priests).
Mayor Ford was then brought to the main stage where he shared a proclamation from the City of Toronto, honouring our annual Festival of India (Ratha-Yatra). The highlight was the Mayor enthusiastically yelling out to the crowd, “Hare Krishna!” and receiving a jubilant “Hare Krishna” back as seen at the end of the video below!
Mayor Ford then toured the rest of the festival site, indulged in some prasadam (sanctified vegetarian food) and shook hands with what seemed to be an endless throng of people!
Toronto’s Hare Krishna community extends our prayers and condolences to the members of the Ford family during this difficult time. We hope that those who are mourning the loss of Rob Ford can take solace in knowing that he most certainly received great spiritual benefit by chanting the words “Hare Krishna” with all of his heart.
By Madhava Smullen
It’s hard to beat Festival of Inspiration for sheer variety.
This year’s ISKCON 50 special edition of the Appalachian spiritual retreat in New Vrindaban, West Virginia will overflow with the best Krishna consciousness has to offer: seminars, kirtans, entertainment, and the tastiest prasadam this side of the spiritual world.
Hundreds of devotees from all over the East Coast of the United States and Canada are expected to pour in for the May 6th to 8th weekend.
Each day of the festival will begin with an extended themed Srimad Bhagavatam class. Author Yogesvara Das will speak about his new biography of Srila Prabhupada for a mainstream audience, entitled “Swami in a Strange Land.” And the class on Sunday – Mother’s Day – will focus on the importance of honoring mothers in the Vaishnava tradition.
The centerpiece of the seminars, meanwhile, will be two special panel discussions to commemorate ISKCON’s 50th Anniversary.
“In the first, entitled ‘ISKCON 50 Years Ago,’ early Prabhupada disciples like Malati Devi, Shyamasundar Prabhu, and Yogesvara Prabhu will talk about their struggles and victories in expanding the movement, and how Prabhupada encouraged and enthused everyone,” says organizer Vrindavan Das. “They’ll be joined by Sally Agarwal, who sponsored Prabhupada when he first arrived in the U.S.”
The second panel, ISKCON’s Future in North America, will be facilitated by Gainesville Krishna House Director Kalakanatha Das and feature Varshana Swami, Vaisesika Das, educator Urmila Dasi, and more. They’ll discuss how to learn from the mistakes of the past to improve the future, how to care for the needs of current devotees, and how to reach out to more new people.
And that’s just the beginning. New Vrindaban’s own Sankirtan Das will present his Powerpoint on Prabhupada coming to America, which has been very well-received in colleges. He’ll also facilitate an open discussion on developing strategies for presenting Prabhupada to the public.
Urmila Dasi will offer practical and clear instructions for overcoming obstacles in spiritual life, setting our “compass” to the right direction, and finding the ultimate spiritual attainment.
Kalakantha Das, who has spoken out in favor of women gurus in ISKCON, will talk about the role of women in the society, and about Krishna conscious marriage.
Veteran book distributor Vaisesika Das is likely to speak about his new book, Our Family Business, in which he shares key principles and techniques of book distribution.
And ISKCON pioneer Shyamasundara Das will tell amazing stories from his upcoming book Chasing Rhinos with the Swami about ISKCON’s early days in San Francisco and London, as well as about his travels in India and Russia with Prabhupada.
As usual, parents will be able to attend these and the many other seminars on offer while their children have fun at a supervised kids’ camp with face painting, clowns and more.
At mealtimes, devotees will sit at picnic tables on the sunny lawn and socialize as they tuck into a tasty blend of Eastern and Western prasadam. There’ll be lots of healthy options such as salad and soup, as well as traditional Indian dishes and comfort food like macaroni; while many of the dairy dishes will be made with the milk of protected New Vrindaban cows.
In the evenings, everyone will focus on singing the Lord’s praises. Friday will see the continuation of a bhajan program that became an instant hit when it was introduced last year.
“Devotees rarely get to sing bhajans, because at most kirtan festivals they only chant the Hare Krishna mantra,” says Vrindavan. “So they’ll appreciate the chance to sing traditional songs of the Vaishnava Acharyas with some of the best bhajan singers in ISKCON like Agnideva Prabhu, Havi Prabhu and Ekendra Prabhu.”
Participants will get to immerse themselves in the Maha-mantra too, however, with a Nama-Yajna on Saturday evening.
The grande finale will follow on Sunday, with the hugely popular Transcendental Entertainment show at midday. Ekendra Das will lampoon both ISKCON and material life through song as his comedic alter ego Yama Niyama Das Brahmachari, Bhaktimarga Swami and his team will bring one of their epic dramas, and more top performers are yet to be announced.
After the show, a traditional Sunday Feast of rice, dahl, subjis, pakoras, chutney, puris, sweet rice, and gulabjamuns will be served. Devotees will return to their homes satisfied, relaxed, and yes, inspired.
“This year’s festival is a great way to celebrate ISKCON’s 50th anniversary, with so many excellent speakers covering the achievements of the last 50 years and motivating us about what we can do in the next 50,” says Vrindavan.
“It’s also a wonderful opportunity for participants to get inspired in Krishna consciousness and then return to their communities and enthuse others in devotional service.”
To register, please visit http://www.festivalofinspiration.net/registration/
March 26. ISKCON 50 – S.Prabhupada Daily Meditations.
Satsvarupa dasa Goswami: “Don’t Turn Your Attention, Just Hear”
Outside the closed windows of the Room 307, the late winter night had fallen. Prabhupada’s words are punctuated with the muted sounds of car horns and occasional sirens from the street, and sometimes the startling chords of a lonely fog horn on the Hudson. Although bare, the room is warm. Prabhupada is speaking on the second chapter of Bhagavad-gita.
Now Arjuna is perplexed. He is perplexed about whether to fight or not to fight. After seeing in front of him his relatives, with whom he was to fight, he was perplexed. And there was some argument with Krishna.
Now here is a point: Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead….
Prabhupada’s voice is earnest, persuading. Sometimes his speech becomes high-pitched and breaks with urgency. His cultured British diction bears a heavy, Bengali accent.
To read the entire article click here: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=20490&page=6
“Don’t Turn Your Attention, Just Hear”
Continuing the discussion on morality and bhakti…
The conclusion that in all circumstances, abandoning of duties is an immoral act, caused confusion not only b/c it appears we hear to the contrary from sastra BUT also b/c several devotees online have made personal decision in life which, hitherto, was thought of as a sacrifice for the cause of devotion, but now is being thought of not only as immoral but as the committing of aparadha, the most egregious type of obstacle to bhakti. It’s this conclusion I find not yet compelling.
I don’t think my replies were as black and white as that, “in all circumstances…” Someone asked if it was immoral to take sick days when you are not sick, and I said that was not immoral. Someone asked if it is OK to suspend or abandon your participation in family duties, I said it is not immoral if the family approves and gives blessings.
Everything does have to be evaluated on an individual basis. And we should not evaluate with the conclusion preconceived, “how can I understand this in a manner that will justify my previous decisions.” Our attitude in studying shastra should be, “How can I conform to the supreme will, better, better as still better than whatever I have accomplished so farl?”
Your reading of the verses that RG quotes in this section–18.66, 1.5.17, etc.–makes sense b/c bhakti is also dharma and/or the soul of dharma as you have poetically expressed. Still, it is not the only reading of those verses.
Let us read these verses carefully, now.
The section begins at the 63rd verse of the second wave and ends at the 71st.
It is at the very end of the section describing the adhikāra for sādhana, so that is the focus of the topic. It is not exactly focused on the topic of whether the bhakta is moral or immoral, but the exact focus is very related: whether a bhakta requires purification from any process besides bhakti.
The key point of the section is that bhakti is self-sufficient and produces morality and purity, and a sādhaka should not feel that they need some other self-help book, psychology session, time-management system, stress-relief pills, religion, knowledge, yoga, etc. They do not need any other purification process mentioned in the Veda, because bhakti itself is the most effective purification process.
Therefore 63 begins the section by saying that they should stick to the main sādhanas. Those deeds are what purifies them. They don’t need any other karma, any other occupation, any other duty, any other religion/morality.
64 clarifies that a bhakta does not intentionally commit any impure, immoral act – but if, by mistake he or she does, then no reparations outside of the main practices of bhakti are required, because these practices are the most efficacious reparations in all the Veda (see the first quality of bhakti, kleśaghni — it is the most effective purifier).
65 is quoted to show that different Vedic prescriptions pertain to different individuals. It is not that every prescription in the Veda has to be followed by every person. The prescriptions are given according to the capacity of the patient, or seen from the other angle, the severity of the disease. If the patient is capable of sādhana-bhakti, then he or she is duty bound to religiously adhere to the main practices of sādhana and duty bound not to “perform the duty meant for another” (see Gītā) by dabbling in the prescriptions meant for those qualified only for jñāna processes, or only for karma processes.
66 is quoted to show that not performing duties meant for others is not immoral. One must perform the duties that apply to oneself. Thus if a bhakta does not perform the karmas required of those who are not qualified for bhakti – there is no fault.
67 explains the same: karmas and jñānas are meant to elevate the person to bhakti so once there is qualification for bhakti there is then no further need to adhere to the karmas and jñānas, in fact it would be a hindrance to further progress. The reason is not that morality and knowledge is unimportant all of the sudden. The reason is that bhakti itself produces moraltiy and knowledge more powerfully than any other process – if a person is qualified to really do it.
Bhanu Swami’s footnote on the commentary on this book lends a great deal of support to what I am trying to explain here. He says that Śrīla Sārasvatī Prabhupāda commented on this quote to explain that one who takes shelter in Krishna will automatically develop all the 27 moral principles listed in in 11.11.29-31.
It also references Bhāgavatam 5.18.12 (yasyāsti bhaktir bhagavaty akiñcanā…) to prove the same point: all good qualities result from bhakti so there is no need of another process.
68 is quoted to substantiate that doing bhakti absolves one for requiring to do the other karmas in the Veda. Śrī Jīva’s comment shows that the main theme here continues to be: Bhakti destroys sinfulness, and therefore destroys the need for other means of purification.
69 is quoted from Gītā to show that it is actually an injunction, a moral principle, for the person qualified for pure bhakti to give up other paths of purification and take exclusively to the aṅgas of sādhana.
70 is quoted saying that a bhakta is already pure, so there is no need of purification.
71 is quoted, clarifying that any impurity in a bhakta is a flaw, a mistake, unintentional – but doesn’t need any other remedy besides bhakti practice itself.
The important point to take home: morality and wisdom are not unnecessary for a bhakta, but bhakti produces them more effectively than the processes of karma and jñāna do. Therefore, if one is capable of doing pure bhakti, it would be a shame not to, for by practicing bhakti one develops the most profound morality and wisdom.
I definitely think it would be wrong to say this section means that a bhakta can do immoral things and doesn’t need to worry about that. The section shows that bhakti makes a person more moral than any other. Bhakti is the supreme purifier. And even if a practitioner makes mistakes and sometimes does immoral things, they don’t need to do anything other than their bhakti-sādhana to rectify that.
To the very specific case of people who have renounced their families without blessing to do so… this is a very dangerous thing to do. If you have done this you should
(A) Do your sādhanas with 1,000 times the dedication, depth and sincerity than anyone else – because everything is riding on the bet that you were correct in assessing that you had the adhikāra to do what you did. So you should best make sure that you deeply develop that adhikāra to practice niṣṭhā-bhajan – for that is the platform you have decided to adopt as your svadharma. If you are falling short of niṣṭhā-bhajan, you are falling short of what you are supposed to be. You shouldn’t ever allow that situation to persist.
(B) Consider whether it is not feasible to be more considerate of the people to whom you have abandoned responsibilities. Have you fully disclosed yourself to them, explaining your heart, and requesting their understanding, if not agreement? Is it actually required that you cut them off entirely? Could you find some way to show compassion to them yet also still act on the level of bhakti for which you have adhikāra?
In the cases of people like Śrī Sanātana Goswāmī, their adhikāra for uttamā-bhakti was dizzyingly high, and still they tried to obtain blessings. When those blessings would not be given, they were not wrong for pursuing the dharmas meant for their adhikāra – constant exclusive engagement in sādhanas with absolute renunciation of all other concerns. Nor did they ever fail to live up to that standard.
Hare Krishna.
Your servant,
By Madhava Smullen
It’s hard to beat Festival of Inspiration for sheer variety.
This year’s ISKCON 50 special edition of the Appalachian spiritual retreat in New Vrindaban, West Virginia will overflow with the best Krishna consciousness has to offer: seminars, kirtans, entertainment, and the tastiest prasadam this side of the spiritual world.
Hundreds of devotees from all over the East Coast of the United States and Canada are expected to pour in for the May 6th to 8th weekend.
Each day of the festival will begin with an extended themed Srimad Bhagavatam class. Author Yogesvara Das will speak about his new biography of Srila Prabhupada for a mainstream audience, entitled “Swami in a Strange Land.” And the class on Sunday – Mother’s Day – will focus on the importance of honoring mothers in the Vaishnava tradition.
The centerpiece of the seminars, meanwhile, will be two special panel discussions to commemorate ISKCON’s 50th Anniversary.
“In the first, entitled ‘ISKCON 50 Years Ago,’ early Prabhupada disciples like Malati Devi, Shyamasundar Prabhu, and Yogesvara Prabhu will talk about their struggles and victories in expanding the movement, and how Prabhupada encouraged and enthused everyone,” says organizer Vrindavan Das. “They’ll be joined by Sally Agarwal, who sponsored Prabhupada when he first arrived in the U.S.”
The second panel, ISKCON’s Future in North America, will be facilitated by Gainesville Krishna House Director Kalakanatha Das and feature Varshana Swami, Vaisesika Das, educator Urmila Dasi, and more. They’ll discuss how to learn from the mistakes of the past to improve the future, how to care for the needs of current devotees, and how to reach out to more new people.
And that’s just the beginning. New Vrindaban’s own Sankirtan Das will present his Powerpoint on Prabhupada coming to America, which has been very well-received in colleges. He’ll also facilitate an open discussion on developing strategies for presenting Prabhupada to the public.
Urmila Dasi will offer practical and clear instructions for overcoming obstacles in spiritual life, setting our “compass” to the right direction, and finding the ultimate spiritual attainment.
Kalakantha Das, who has spoken out in favor of women gurus in ISKCON, will talk about the role of women in the society, and about Krishna conscious marriage.
Veteran book distributor Vaisesika Das is likely to speak about his new book, Our Family Business, in which he shares key principles and techniques of book distribution.
And ISKCON pioneer Shyamasundara Das will tell amazing stories from his upcoming book Chasing Rhinos with the Swami about ISKCON’s early days in San Francisco and London, as well as about his travels in India and Russia with Prabhupada.
As usual, parents will be able to attend these and the many other seminars on offer while their children have fun at a supervised kids’ camp with face painting, clowns and more.
At mealtimes, devotees will sit at picnic tables on the sunny lawn and socialize as they tuck into a tasty blend of Eastern and Western prasadam. There’ll be lots of healthy options such as salad and soup, as well as traditional Indian dishes and comfort food like macaroni; while many of the dairy dishes will be made with the milk of protected New Vrindaban cows.
In the evenings, everyone will focus on singing the Lord’s praises. Friday will see the continuation of a bhajan program that became an instant hit when it was introduced last year.
“Devotees rarely get to sing bhajans, because at most kirtan festivals they only chant the Hare Krishna mantra,” says Vrindavan. “So they’ll appreciate the chance to sing traditional songs of the Vaishnava Acharyas with some of the best bhajan singers in ISKCON like Agnideva Prabhu, Havi Prabhu and Ekendra Prabhu.”
Participants will get to immerse themselves in the Maha-mantra too, however, with a Nama-Yajna on Saturday evening.
The grande finale will follow on Sunday, with the hugely popular Transcendental Entertainment show at midday. Ekendra Das will lampoon both ISKCON and material life through song as his comedic alter ego Yama Niyama Das Brahmachari, Bhaktimarga Swami and his team will bring one of their epic dramas, and more top performers are yet to be announced.
After the show, a traditional Sunday Feast of rice, dahl, subjis, pakoras, chutney, puris, sweet rice, and gulabjamuns will be served. Devotees will return to their homes satisfied, relaxed, and yes, inspired.
“This year’s festival is a great way to celebrate ISKCON’s 50th anniversary, with so many excellent speakers covering the achievements of the last 50 years and motivating us about what we can do in the next 50,” says Vrindavan.
“It’s also a wonderful opportunity for participants to get inspired in Krishna consciousness and then return to their communities and enthuse others in devotional service.”
To register, please visit http://www.festivalofinspiration.net/registration/
Hare Krsna, Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to Srila Prabhupada!
After the departure of Aindra Prabhu, a good friend of his, Rama Raya Prabhu, had the strong feeling that his friend Aindra wanted him to chant the holy name in New York City. So this is what he and many others do, 365 days a year. There are no days off. Aindra Prabhu was originally doing harinama preaching in NYC, but Krsna has His plans, so Aindra went to Vrindavana and restarted the 24-hour kirtan that Srila Prabhupada had once instituted. Now Rama Raya and his team of chanters in NYC not only distribute the holy names but also books. Last month they distributed 2,293 books and magazines in the Big Apple. When there’s harinama and book distribution, how can Aindra Prabhu and the whole parampara not be pleased?
Your servant, Vijaya Dasa
For complete results
go to www.SankirtanNewsletter.com (password: wsnhome)
Deadline for scores is the 15th of the next month
WORLD WORLD SANKIR NEWS LETTER
WWW WWW SSS TAN NEWS NEW
WWW WWW SSS SSS NEWSLE NEW
WWW WWW WWW SSSSS NEW NEWS NEW
WWW WORLD WWW SANKIR NEW NEWS NEW
WORLD WORLD SSS TAN NEW LETTER
WWW WWW SAN SSS NEW NEWSL
WW WW KIRTAN NEWSL ETTER
*********************************************************
W O R L D S A N K I R T A N N E W S L E T T E R
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February 2016 3/25/2016
For the pleasure of Srila Prabhupada this page
contains the following results for the month of February 2016.
World Totals Page 2
Monthly Congregation and Weekend Warriors Page 2
Monthly Continents Page 3
Monthly Top Ten Temples by Size Page 3
Monthly Top Ten Temples by Continent Page 4
Monthly Top Teams and Individuals Page 5
Monthly All Countries Page 6
Monthly All Temples Page 7
Monthly All Prabhupada Disciples Page 8
Cumulative Top Ten Countries Page 9
Cumulative Top Ten Temples Page 9
Cumulative Top 50 Individuals Worldwide Page 9
**** Page 2 ****
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* -- OFFERING TO SRILA PRABHUPADA -- *
* *
* During the month of February 2016, 116 temples reported *
* distributing the following number of books: *
* *
* 94,443 Maha-big books *
* 25,588 Big books *
* 44,883 Medium books *
* 118,497 Small books *
* 38,577 Magazines *
* 3,535 BTG subscriptions *
* 938 Full sets *
* *
* 343,198 literatures for the month *
* 713,373 literatures year-to-date *
* 522,761,424 literatures worldwide since 1965 *
* *
* All glories to Srila Prabhupada! *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
WORLDWIDE BOOK DISTRIBUTION
Total Literatures Distributed
Books (Millions)
16.........................................................................
14X........................................................................
X x
12X.....X..................................................................
X X
10X.....X.x.x.................x............................................
X x X X X x X X _ x _ x
8XX...X.X.X.X...........X.X.X.X.X.X..................................._.X.X
XXX x X X X X x X X X X X X x X X X X
6XXX..X.X.X.X.X.X.......X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.......................x.X.X.X.X.X.X
XXXX X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X x x X X X X X X X
4XXXX.X.X.X.X.X.X.....X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X...........x.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X
XXXX X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X _ x X X X X X X X X X X X X
2XXXX.X.X.X.X.X.X.x.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X
XXXX X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
0XXXX_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X
79 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98 00 02 04 06 08 10 12 14 15
World Sankirtan Newsletter
CONGREGATIONAL PREACHING
February 2016
Congregation and % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Weekend Warriors Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 WW Baltimore Jiv Bal USA 2000.35 na 991 6 16 13 11
2 WW Team ISV Week Sil USA 1688.25*+699% 821* 1 0 181* 0
3 WW Toronto WW Tor Can 335.25* +65% 112* 6 104 213* 0
4 WW Nairobi WW Nai Ken 291.00 -67% 3 74 120 604 0
5 WW Dallas Dal USA 138.00 -17% 32 34* 61* 38 0
6 Sasolburg NH Len SA 54.00 na 0 4 0 200 0
7 WW Los Angeles LA USA 42.50 na 0 10 30 70 0
8 WW Kostroma Kos Rus 40.25 na 6 5 1 91 0
9 London Sastra Da Lon Eng 34.00 -66% 17* 0 0 0 0
10 WW Chicago MSF Chi USA 7.75 na 3 0 0 7 0
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
**** Page 3 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
MONTHLY CONTINENTS
February 2016
% of M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs Full
Continent (temples) Points World Books Books Books Books Mags Sets
_________________________________________________________________________
1 Asia (26) 171901.95 62% 63465 8333 15104 69269 50849 825
2 North America (22) 48721.30 17% 13040 10977 11687 20764 5770 102
3 CIS (14) 21771.50 8% 7714 1919 4134 9430 0 0
4 Europe (27) 21027.65 8% 6514 1806 9739 4991 650 1
5 Australasia (6) 7527.05 3% 2822 869 847 2067 738 10
6 Latin America (13) 6179.45 2% 634 1343 3147 7977 7 0
7 Africa (8) 2138.55 1% 254 341 225 3999 1773 0
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN TEMPLES BY SIZE
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
TOP TEN LARGE TEMPLES (41+ devotees)
1 Mayapur Ind 77664.50* +45% 33095* 3043 7002* 19722* 0
2 Mumbai-Juhu Ind 31461.00 na 12043 1978 2707 16174 0
3 Los Angeles USA 12222.90 -16% 2084 3284* 5028* 8870 394
4 Moscow Rus 11432.75* +29% 4847* 521 1004* 2863* 0
5 New Delhi Ind 9839.35 -66% 1794 484 3129 10335 16191*
6 Pune Ind 9621.55* +94% 4133* 160* 407* 2527* 2577*
7 Mumbai-Chowpatty Ind 4045.50*+398% 1814* 186* 35 740 138*
8 Ujjain Ind 3410.50 -28% 900 852 954 1126 0
9 Bhaktivedanta Mano Eng 2527.25 -25% 791 119* 1421 463* 0
10 Mumbai-Kharghar Ind 1068.00 na 456 59 58 272 0
TOP TEN MEDIUM TEMPLES (21-40 devotees)
1 VV Nagar Ind 9447.50 na 810 650 0 2190 15912
2 Sydney-North Aus 4691.00* +19% 2012* 214* 441* 930* 0
3 Salem Ind 4075.65 -45% 1702 228 0 1387* 304
4 Ahmedabad Ind 3800.00*+128% 1490* 0 227* 1576* 750*
5 New Delhi(Punj.Bag Ind 3681.20 -65% 600 0 0 5000 7676*
6 Gainesville USA 3356.25 -7% 848 1070* 756* 849 0
7 London-Soho Eng 2937.50* +12% 948* 63* 1313 1288* 0
8 Mexico City Mex 2754.00 -48% 274* 415 2190* 2784 0
9 Moscow-Jagannath Rus 2524.00 na 1092 128 198 452 0
10 Simhachalam (NJNK) Ger 2500.00*+287% 959* 198* 768* 0 0
TOP TEN SMALL TEMPLES (6-20 devotees)
1 RupanugaVedicColle USA 12164.85* +35% 4221* 3083* 186* 849* 3346*
2 Sankirtan Dham TST Ita 3842.50* 0% 1369* 0 2209* 0 0
3 Surat Ind 2733.75 -75% 673 126* 70* 2437* 1482
4 Rajahmundry Ind 2576.25 -28% 974 230 368 857 0
5 Chicago USA 2472.75*+755% 610* 686* 318* 987* 1610
6 Krasnodar Rus 2442.25 na 289 548 1654 1957 0
7 Silicon Valley(ISV USA 1688.25*+699% 821* 1 0 181* 0
8 New York Harinam USA 1679.25* +17% 448* 379 151 1315* 0
9 Bhopal Ind 1671.50* +24% 751* 99* 40* 202 0
10 Madurai Ind 1609.20 -79% 506 8* 2 1344 2522
TOP TEN MAHA-SMALL TEMPLES (1-5 devotees)
1 TBB TSKP USA 4194.25 0% 379 1738* 2659* 1469* 15*
2 Baltimore USA 2000.35*+999% 991* 6 16* 13 11
3 Sofia Bul 1650.75*+114% 595* 16* 602* 575* 0
4 Bologna Ita 1101.50 na 468 0 331 0 0
5 Recife Bra 447.00 -3% 0 0 4 1780 0
6 Hartford USA 415.70* +83% 166* 16 6 48 87*
7 Prabhupada Bhavan- Cze 386.00 -66% 25 336 0 0 0
8 Heidelberg Ger 246.50*+197% 40* 67* 199* 0 0
9 Vologda Rus 106.50 na 10 30 64 98 0
10 Gurabo (PR) Pue 101.00 -31% 1 17 66 196 0
**** Page 4 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN TEMPLES BY CONTINENT
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________
TOP TEN TEMPLES - ASIA
1 Mayapur Ind 77664.50 +190% 33095 3043 7002 19722 0
2 Mumbai-Juhu Ind 31461.00 na 12043 1978 2707 16174 0
3 New Delhi Ind 9839.35 -32% 1794 484 3129 10335 16191
4 Pune Ind 9621.55 +288% 4133 160 407 2527 2577
5 VV Nagar Ind 9447.50 na 810 650 0 2190 15912
6 Salem Ind 4075.65 +10% 1702 228 0 1387 304
7 Mumbai-Chowpatty Ind 4045.50 +896% 1814 186 35 740 138
8 Ahmedabad Ind 3800.00 +355% 1490 0 227 1576 750
9 New Delhi(Punj.Bag Ind 3681.20 -29% 600 0 0 5000 7676
10 Ujjain Ind 3410.50 +44% 900 852 954 1126 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - NORTH AMERICA
1 Los Angeles USA 12222.90 +67% 2084 3284 5028 8870 394
2 RupanugaVedicColle USA 12164.85 +170% 4221 3083 186 849 3346
3 TBB TSKP USA 4194.25 +100% 379 1738 2659 1469 15
4 Gainesville USA 3356.25 +87% 848 1070 756 849 0
5 Chicago USA 2472.75 +999% 610 686 318 987 1610
6 Baltimore USA 2000.35 +999% 991 6 16 13 11
7 Denver USA 1888.50 +67% 489 243 716 1238 0
8 Silicon Valley(ISV USA 1688.25 +999% 821 1 0 181 0
9 New York Harinam USA 1679.25 +134% 448 379 151 1315 0
10 Farmington Hills, USA 1229.00 na 509 9 404 0 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - CIS
1 Moscow Rus 11432.75 +159% 4847 521 1004 2863 0
2 Moscow-Jagannath Rus 2524.00 na 1092 128 198 452 0
3 Krasnodar Rus 2442.25 na 289 548 1654 1957 0
4 Perm Rus 2199.25 +826% 612 247 611 1691 0
5 Ivanovo Rus 921.75 +96% 310 150 100 407 0
6 Ekaterinburg Rus 773.00 +271% 222 222 0 428 0
7 Minsk Bel 619.00 +19% 172 46 257 402 0
8 Kirov Rus 274.00 -1% 87 12 12 328 0
9 Novopolsk Rus 267.50 na 0 0 220 630 0
10 Vologda Rus 106.50 na 10 30 64 98 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - EUROPE
1 Sankirtan Dham TST Ita 3842.50 +100% 1369 0 2209 0 0
2 London-Soho Eng 2937.50 +123% 948 63 1313 1288 0
3 Bhaktivedanta Mano Eng 2527.25 +51% 791 119 1421 463 0
4 Simhachalam (NJNK) Ger 2500.00 +674% 959 198 768 0 0
5 Sofia Bul 1650.75 +329% 595 16 602 575 0
6 Bologna Ita 1101.50 na 468 0 331 0 0
7 Milan Ita 864.50 +82% 179 0 1013 0 0
8 Kaunas Lit 691.50 +474% 215 178 5 324 0
9 Budapest Hun 609.60 -49% 137 115 1 768 281
10 Prague Cze 586.25 +162% 93 298 0 409 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - AUSTRALASIA
1 Sydney-North Aus 4691.00 +138% 2012 214 441 930 0
2 Auckland Loft New 1029.40 na 180 441 52 584 564
3 Melbourne Aus 784.25 +70% 320 61 79 175 0
4 New Govardhana Aus 365.00 -29% 89 0 231 286 0
5 Perth Aus 339.40 +215% 147 13 37 40 39
6 Wellington New 318.00 na 74 140 7 52 135
TOP TEN TEMPLES - LATIN AMERICA
1 Mexico City Mex 2754.00 +3% 274 415 2190 2784 0
2 Curitiba Bra 1279.00 +32% 164 441 681 678 0
3 Itajai Bra 481.00 na 98 112 0 692 0
4 Recife Bra 447.00 +94% 0 0 4 1780 0
5 Pouso Alegre Bra 391.00 +999% 15 246 0 460 0
6 Guadalajara Mex 337.75 na 65 75 90 351 0
7 Cueramaro Mex 238.00 -82% 14 0 110 620 0
8 Gurabo (PR) Pue 101.00 +37% 1 17 66 196 0
9 Natal Bra 69.50 na 0 0 0 278 0
10 Florianopolis Bra 66.00 +552% 0 36 0 120 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - AFRICA
1 Kinshasa Con 549.00 na 157 0 0 460 1200
2 Bon Accueil Mau 512.50 na 0 53 26 1786 0
3 Nairobi Ken 316.00 -44% 3 74 120 704 0
4 Durban Sou 301.50 -28% 28 200 29 124 0
5 Phoenix(MA) Mau 257.95 na 60 7 11 499 7
6 Lenasia Sou 174.10 +397% 0 5 23 416 536
7 Abidjan Ivo 16.50 na 4 1 15 0 0
8 Lusaka Zam 11.00 +1% 2 1 1 10 30
**** Page 5 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TEAM BOOK DISTRIBUTION
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Puspa Gopal d May Ind26624.75 na 10838 340 2095 14245 0
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP 50 INDIVIDUALS
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Gokuleshwar d Mum Ind 5512.50 na 2225 1000 10 230 0
2 Bhagavat Ashraya Mum Ind 4222.00 na 2101 0 40 0 0
3 Hemagiri d Mum Ind 4093.25 na 1362 310 710 2817 0
4 HH Jayapataka Sw May Ind 4000.00 -5% 2000 0 0 0 0
5 Mahapuran d May Ind 3678.00 na 1520 300 76 1200 0
6 Ananda Kirtan d LA USA 3672.55* +43% 1081* 779* 437* 2045 18
7 Radha Krsna d Mum Ind 3201.25 na 1399 121 301 527 0
8 Bk Jay Khush LA USA 3171.30* +2% 824 594* 657* 2346 143*
9 Paramesvara d RVC USA 3047.45* +32% 984* 832* 0 237* 1882*
10 Krishna Bhagavan RVC USA 2920.10* +16% 1004* 727* 0 256* 1211*
11 Mayapur Candra d May Ind 2602.00 -8% 1301* 0 0 0 0
12 Bipin Bihari d May Ind 2512.50* +48% 1002* 0 425 1184* 0
13 Pavitra Hari d New Ind 2450.00 -9% 600 0 0 5000 0
14 Banamali Mukunda May Ind 2213.75* +9% 760* 525* 50* 575 0
15 Sri Caitanya Can Pun Ind 2072.00 na 1036 0 0 0 0
16 Ghanashyam Govin Syd Aus 2047.00*+278% 896* 106* 86* 424* 0
17 Deva Krsna d RVC USA 1935.25* +46% 740* 422* 0 133* 0
18 Tirtha Govinda d May Ind 1884.00* +11% 400* 313* 1176* 732 0
19 Bk Storm LA USA 1840.45* +4% 565* 278* 351 993 87*
20 Dhanvantari d Mum Ind 1662.50 na 400 0 140 3170 0
21 Harinam Kripa Si May Ind 1638.25 -23% 786* 0 130 5 0
22 Tusta Ram d May Ind 1601.50 -5% 728* 103* 85* 0 0
23 Brajananda d RVC USA 1570.25* +74% 543* 417* 85 99 0
24 Patit Uddhar Gov May Ind 1558.25* +16% 711* 87* 79* 39 0
25 Gaur Sundar d LA USA 1556.15 -16% 722 75 45 55* 9*
26 Bhaktiman Gadadh May Ind 1527.00* +44% 606* 0 500* 260 0
27 Udar Gour Sundar May Ind 1502.00* +26% 751* 0 0 0 0
28 Krishna Caran d Mum Ind 1496.25 na 547 152 425 151 0
29 Sadhu Sevak d May Ind 1493.25*+188% 725* 21 26* 37 0
30 Kamal Nayan d May Ind 1479.50* +2% 734* 4* 15* 0 0
31 Kishor Gopinath May Ind 1428.00 -17% 714 0 0 0 0
32 Gopal Balak d May Ind 1413.50* 0% 638* 28* 219* 0 0
33 Bk Monoj May Ind 1411.00* +21% 436 539* 0 0 0
34 Dasya Prema d RVC USA 1406.30* +45% 539* 271* 27 74* 253*
35 Raya Nitai d TBB USA 1389.50*+137% 68 512* 1362* 242 0
36 Gaur Lila d Pun Ind 1363.00 -31% 681 0 1 2 0
37 Prema Sankirtan LA USA 1353.00 -3% 348 490* 89* 490 0
38 Kamalapati d May Ind 1333.00* +18% 659* 8* 8* 12 0
39 Bk Carlos Gai USA 1302.00* +18% 380 407* 98 344 0
40 Lokeswar Balaram May Ind 1238.75* +22% 612* 9 7 9 0
41 Nityadham d New Ind 1231.20* 0% 0 0 0 0 7676*
42 Bala Gopal d May Ind 1228.00* +10% 600* 12 15 34 0
43 Dharmaraja d RVC USA 1217.75* +35% 395* 396* 42 43 0
44 Jagannath d Mum Ind 1216.50 na 444 84 316 346 0
45 Srivasprem d May Ind 1175.00*+388% 587* 1 0 0 0
46 Sundar Caitanya Mum Ind 1173.75 na 182 51 30 2975 0
47 Subikram Baladev May Ind 1168.75 -13% 575 3 14 35 0
48 Revati Raman d Mum Ind 1168.00 na 391 51 175 990 0
49 Bk Carlos TBB USA 1131.75* +23% 207* 254* 634 587* 0
50 Nama Sankirtan d Lon Eng 1129.75*+279% 473* 41 197* 177* 0
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
**** Page 6 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
ALL COUNTRIES
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Country (Temples) Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
________________________________________________________________________
1 India (20) 170757.95 -22% 63061 8152 15066 68751 50784
2 United States (20) 48096.95 +45% 12824 10950 11511 20455 5769
3 Russia, CIS (13) 21152.50 +352% 7542 1873 3877 9028 0
4 Italy (6) 6402.50 +75% 2084 0 4436 0 51
5 Australia (4) 6179.65 +184% 2568 288 788 1431 39
6 United Kingdom (2) 5464.75 -2% 1739 182 2734 1751 0
7 GermanyAustria (6) 3767.00 -20% 1324 342 1554 0 0
8 Mexico (3) 3329.75 +27% 353 490 2390 3755 0
9 Brazil (7) 2737.75 -32% 277 835 688 4019 0
10 Bulgaria 1650.75 +37% 595 16 602 575 0
11 New Zealand (2) 1347.40 -27% 254 581 59 636 699
12 Malaysia (5) 1091.50 na 384 171 38 508 65
13 Hungary (2) 1014.15 -61% 246 201 1 1043 599
14 Czech Republic (2) 972.25 -22% 118 634 0 409 0
15 Lithuania (2) 915.50 +56% 298 201 12 450 0
16 Mauritius (2) 770.45 -85% 60 60 37 2285 7
17 Canada (2) 624.35 -69% 216 27 176 309 1
18 Belarus, CIS 619.00 na 172 46 257 402 0
19 Congo(D.R.) 549.00 na 157 0 0 460 1200
20 South Africa (2) 475.60 -14% 28 205 52 540 536
21 Switzerland 369.00 +105% 60 162 173 2 0
22 Kenya 316.00 +2% 3 74 120 704 0
23 Slovenia 271.25 +91% 15 52 208 341 0
24 Sweden (2) 104.00 na 21 4 3 226 0
25 Puerto Rico 101.00 na 1 17 66 196 0
26 Sri Lanka 52.50 na 20 10 0 10 0
27 Bosnia 49.50 -74% 8 9 16 66 0
28 Romania 47.00 na 6 3 0 128 0
29 Ivory Coast 16.50 na 4 1 15 0 0
30 Zambia 11.00 -41% 2 1 1 10 30
31 Suriname 7.50 na 3 1 0 2 0
32 Dominican Republic 3.45 na 0 0 3 5 7
(%)Change compared
to Feb last year
**** Page 7 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
ALL TEMPLES
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Temples (size) Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Mayapur (L) Ind 77664.50* +45% 33095* 3043 7002* 19722* 0
2 Mumbai-Juhu (L) Ind 31461.00 na 12043 1978 2707 16174 0
3 Los Angeles (L) USA 12222.90 -16% 2084 3284* 5028* 8870 394
4 RupanugaVedicColle USA 12164.85* +35% 4221* 3083* 186* 849* 3346*
5 Moscow (L) Rus 11432.75* +29% 4847* 521 1004* 2863* 0
6 New Delhi (L) Ind 9839.35 -66% 1794 484 3129 10335 16191*
7 Pune (L) Ind 9621.55* +94% 4133* 160* 407* 2527* 2577*
8 VV Nagar (M) Ind 9447.50 na 810 650 0 2190 15912
9 Sydney-North (M) Aus 4691.00* +19% 2012* 214* 441* 930* 0
10 TBB TSKP (MS) USA 4194.25 0% 379 1738* 2659* 1469* 15*
11 Salem (M) Ind 4075.65 -45% 1702 228 0 1387* 304
12 Mumbai-Chowpatty ( Ind 4045.50*+398% 1814* 186* 35 740 138*
13 Sankirtan Dham TST Ita 3842.50* 0% 1369* 0 2209* 0 0
14 Ahmedabad (M) Ind 3800.00*+128% 1490* 0 227* 1576* 750*
15 New Delhi(Punj.Bag Ind 3681.20 -65% 600 0 0 5000 7676*
16 Ujjain (L) Ind 3410.50 -28% 900 852 954 1126 0
17 Gainesville (M) USA 3356.25 -7% 848 1070* 756* 849 0
18 London-Soho (M) Eng 2937.50* +12% 948* 63* 1313 1288* 0
19 Mexico City (M) Mex 2754.00 -48% 274* 415 2190* 2784 0
20 Surat (S) Ind 2733.75 -75% 673 126* 70* 2437* 1482
21 Rajahmundry (S) Ind 2576.25 -28% 974 230 368 857 0
22 Bhaktivedanta Mano Eng 2527.25 -25% 791 119* 1421 463* 0
23 Moscow-Jagannath ( Rus 2524.00 na 1092 128 198 452 0
24 Simhachalam (NJNK) Ger 2500.00*+287% 959* 198* 768* 0 0
25 Chicago (S) USA 2472.75*+755% 610* 686* 318* 987* 1610
26 Krasnodar (S) Rus 2442.25 na 289 548 1654 1957 0
27 Perm (M) Rus 2199.25*+363% 612* 247* 611* 1691* 0
28 Baltimore (MS) USA 2000.35*+999% 991* 6 16* 13 11
29 Denver (M) USA 1888.50 -16% 489 243 716* 1238* 0
30 Silicon Valley(ISV USA 1688.25*+699% 821* 1 0 181* 0
31 New York Harinam ( USA 1679.25* +17% 448* 379 151 1315* 0
32 Bhopal (S) Ind 1671.50* +24% 751* 99* 40* 202 0
33 Sofia (MS) Bul 1650.75*+114% 595* 16* 602* 575* 0
34 Madurai (S) Ind 1609.20 -79% 506 8* 2 1344 2522
35 Curitiba (S) Bra 1279.00 -34% 164 441 681* 678 0
36 Farmington Hills, USA 1229.00 na 509 9 404 0 0
37 New Talavan (S) USA 1167.25 -14% 436 9 533* 79 0
38 Tirunelveli (S) Ind 1150.10 -64% 372 5* 3 814 1961
39 Bologna (MS) Ita 1101.50 na 468 0 331 0 0
40 Mumbai-Kharghar (L Ind 1068.00 na 456 59 58 272 0
41 Auckland Loft (S) New 1029.40 na 180 441 52 584 564
42 Hillsborough, NC ( USA 1001.10*+193% 285* 113* 20* 1172* 151*
43 Ivanovo (S) Rus 921.75 -2% 310* 150 100 407 0
44 Vellore (S) Ind 887.00*+157% 226* 15 0 40 1250*
45 Milan (M) Ita 864.50 -9% 179* 0 1013 0 0
46 Miami (S) USA 845.85*+177% 127* 175* 164* 1283* 53*
47 Trivandrum (S) Ind 810.25 -80% 298 0 27 803 0
48 Melbourne (L) Aus 784.25 -15% 320 61* 79* 175* 0
49 Ekaterinburg (M) Rus 773.00* +85% 222* 222 0 428* 0
50 Amravati (S) Ind 696.90 -27% 325 3* 37 68 21
51 Kaunas (S) Lit 691.50*+187% 215* 178* 5 324* 0
52 New Orleans (S) USA 645.50* +26% 22 0 338* 1730* 0
53 Minsk (M) Bel 619.00 -40% 172 46 257* 402 0
54 Budapest (L) Hun 609.60 -74% 137 115 1 768 281
55 Prague (M) Cze 586.25* +31% 93* 298* 0 409* 0
56 Berlin (S) Ger 553.50*+772% 217* 0 239* 0 0
57 Toronto (S) Can 552.10 -22% 200 17 145 250* 1
58 Kuala Lumpur (M) Mal 550.75 na 157 158 38 223 40
59 Kinshasa (S) Con 549.00 na 157 0 0 460 1200
60 Bon Accueil (M) Mau 512.50 na 0 53 26 1786 0
61 Laguna Beach (S) USA 510.00 -59% 227 10 22 110 75
62 Nellore (M) Ind 508.25 na 99 26 0 1137 0
63 Itajai (S) Bra 481.00 na 98 112 0 692 0
64 Villa Vrndavana (L Ita 478.00*+175% 54* 0 737* 0 15*
65 Recife (MS) Bra 447.00 -3% 0 0 4 1780 0
66 Hartford (MS) USA 415.70* +83% 166* 16 6 48 87*
67 New Vrajadham-Hung Hun 404.55 -82% 109 86 0 275 318
68 Pouso Alegre (S) Bra 391.00*+777% 15 246* 0 460* 0
69 Prabhupada Bhavan- Cze 386.00 -66% 25 336 0 0 0
70 Zurich (S) Swi 369.00 -13% 60 162* 173* 2 0
71 New Govardhana (L) Aus 365.00 -65% 89 0 231 286 0
72 Perth (S) Aus 339.40* +58% 147* 13* 37 40 39
73 Guadalajara (S) Mex 337.75 na 65 75 90 351 0
74 Leipzig (S) Ger 334.50*+313% 51* 71* 323* 0 0
75 Wellington (S) New 318.00 na 74 140 7 52 135
76 Nairobi (S) Ken 316.00 -72% 3 74 120 704 0
77 Durban (L) Sou 301.50 -64% 28 200* 29* 124 0
78 Dallas (M) USA 275.75 -57% 77 79 62* 47 0
79 Kirov (S) Rus 274.00 -50% 87 12* 12 328 0
80 Ljubljana (S) Slo 271.25 na 15 52 208 341 0
81 Novopolsk (S) Rus 267.50 na 0 0 220 630 0
82 Phoenix(MA) (S) Mau 257.95 na 60 7 11 499 7
83 Heidelberg (MS) Ger 246.50*+197% 40* 67* 199* 0 0
84 Cueramaro (S) Mex 238.00 -91% 14 0 110 620 0
85 Vilnius (S) Lit 224.00*+220% 83* 23* 7 126* 0
86 Taiping (S) Mal 216.00 na 108 0 0 0 0
87 Lenasia (S) Sou 174.10 +148% 0 5 23 416 536
88 Sacramento/TYM (S) USA 155.25 na 47 10 65 75 0
89 Penang (M) Mal 144.00 na 72 0 0 0 0
90 Seremban (S) Mal 140.75 na 27 13 0 285 25
91 Cologne(Gauradesh) Ger 130.50* +13% 56* 6 25 0 0
92 Berkeley (S) USA 112.70* +5% 19* 20* 49 110* 27
93 Vologda (MS) Rus 106.50 na 10 30 64 98 0
94 Gurabo (PR) (MS) Pue 101.00 -31% 1 17 66 196 0
95 Prabhupada Desh (M Ita 101.00 -64% 14* 0 146 0 0
96 Almvik (L) Swe 97.75 -19% 21* 1 1 217 0
97 Krasnoturinsk (S) Rus 75.00 na 36 3 0 0 0
98 Vancouver (S) Can 72.25 -45% 16 10 31 59 0
99 St. Louis (S) USA 71.50 na 18 19 18 30 0
100 Natal (S) Bra 69.50 na 0 0 0 278 0
101 Florianopolis (MS) Bra 66.00*+226% 0 36 0 120* 0
102 Batticaloa (MS) Sri 52.50 na 20 10 0 10 0
103 Sarajevo (S) Bos 49.50 na 8 9 16 66 0
104 Cherepovets (S) Rus 48.75 na 14 4 10 47 0
105 Rybinsk (S) Rus 47.50*+245% 17* 3* 3* 36* 0
106 Timisoara (S) Rom 47.00 -33% 6 3 0 128* 0
107 Kostroma (S) Rus 40.25 na 6 5 1 91 0
108 Kulim (S) Mal 40.00 na 20 0 0 0 0
109 Abidjan (S) Ivo 16.50 na 4 1 15 0 0
110 Terni (S) Ita 15.00 na 0 0 0 0 36
111 Lusaka (MS) Zam 11.00 -49% 2* 1 1 10 30*
112 Paramaribo (S) Sur 7.50* +20% 3 1 0 2* 0
113 Gothenburg (S) Swe 6.25 -19% 0 3 2* 9* 0
114 Manaus (S) Bra 4.25 -98% 0 0 3 11 0
115 Santo Domingo (S) Dom 3.45 -63% 0 0 3* 5 7
116 German Congregatio Ger 2.00 -75% 1 0 0 0 0
(%)Change compared (*)New high
to monthly average this year
**** Page 8 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
PRABHUPADA DISCIPLES
February 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Prabhupada Disciples Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 HH Jayapataka Sw May Ind 4000.00 -5% 2000 0 0 0 0
2 Gaur Sundar d LA USA 1556.15 -16% 722 75 45 55* 9*
3 Mohanasini dd New USA 1089.75 -17% 436 9 378 79 0
4 Nidra dd Den USA 720.50 -3% 246* 125* 105 204 0
5 Trai d Bol Ita 407.50 na 163 0 163 0 0
6 Drumila d New USA 339.00* +28% 0 0 238* 880* 0
7 Bhrgupati d LA USA 171.70 -29% 44 64* 8 60 7
8 Visala d Mia USA 122.50 -34% 26 3 3* 264* 0
9 Lalita dd Ber USA 16.75 -15% 3* 2 10 15 0
10 Shankar Pandit d Chi USA 13.75 -50% 0 0 0 55 0
11 Nartaka Gopal dd Mia USA 4.00 na 0 0 0 0 40
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
**** Page 9 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN COUNTRIES (CUMULATIVE)
January thru February, 2016
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Country (Temples) Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
________________________________________________________________________
1 India (23) 333389.75 -25% 119335 19910 27935 162877 97152
2 United States (22) 88563.95 +29% 25470 18038 18340 37415 10094
3 Russia, CIS (17) 37144.00 +42% 13283 3695 5996 15540 0
4 United Kingdom (3) 13333.50 +33% 4451 292 6907 2744 0
5 Australia (4) 12284.80+158% 5124 409 1490 3388 358
6 Italy (8) 12133.30 +21% 3698 0 9439 0 64
7 Mexico (4) 12131.25 +67% 953 3775 5916 13969 0
8 Ukraine, CIS (12) 6366.00 -26% 2503 401 1216 1404 0
9 Hungary (2) 5629.10 +1% 1263 1162 318 5848 3201
10 Brazil (7) 5386.60 -42% 561 1706 1359 7508 21
(%)Change compared to Jan-Feb 2015
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN TEMPLES (CUMULATIVE)
January thru February, 2016
Points % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Temples (size) (Months) Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Mayapur (L) Ind 131236.50(2) +20% 54309 10176 12786 24198 0
2 New Delhi (L) Ind 38902.45(2) -34% 9096 1531 6715 50391 32242
3 Mumbai-Juhu ( Ind 31461.00(1) -54% 12043 1978 2707 16174 0
4 Los Angeles ( USA 26835.90(2) +35% 6444 5802 6996 18044 1369
5 RupanugaVedic USA 21178.55(2) na 7424 5199 323 1373 6268
6 Moscow (L) Rus 20278.00(2) na 8520 1296 1723 4322 0
7 Tirupati (L) Ind 17746.05(1) -39% 5794 752 598 12293 9261
8 Pune (L) Ind 14583.70(2) -25% 6300 258 482 4034 2995
9 New Delhi(Pun Ind 14106.15(2) -70% 2673 0 0 25191 15352
10 Surat (S) Ind 13462.50(2) +62% 5364 212 90 3640 3762
(%)Change compared (*)Better than
to Jan-Feb 2015 last year
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TEAM BOOK DISTRIBUTION (CUMULATIVE)
January thru February, 2016
Points % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals (Months) Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Puspa Gopa May Ind 26624.75(1) na 10838 340 2095 14245 0
2 Ajit Govin New Ind 6318.75(1) na 0 0 0 25275 0
(%)Change compared (*)Better than
to Jan-Feb 2015 last year
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP 50 INDIVIDUALS (CUMULATIVE)
January thru February, 2016
Points % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals (Months) Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 s Puspa Go May Ind 26624.75(1) na 10838 340 2095 14245 0
2 Madhusunda New Ind 10260.00(2) na 3770 340 2806 3908 0
3 HH Jayapat May Ind 8200.00(2) +3% 4100 0 0 0 0
4 s Ajit Gov New Ind 6318.75(1) na 0 0 0 25275 0
5 Bk Jay Khu LA USA 6273.20(2) +130% 1758 891 900 5560* 262
6 Ananda Kir LA USA 6245.20(2) +63% 1944 944 513 4576 127*
7 Gokuleshwa Mum Ind 5512.50(1) +418% 2225 1000 10 230 0
8 Krishna Bh RVC USA 5443.40(2) na 1910 1280 3 408 2399
9 Mayapur Ca May Ind 5437.75(2) +134% 1731 1846 190 139 0
10 Paramesvar RVC USA 5353.25(2) na 1731 1458 0 367 3415
11 Keshav Mur New Ind 5350.00(1) +551% 1800 0 0 7000 0
12 Pavitra Ha New Ind 5150.00(2) na 600 0 0 15800 0
13 Banamali M May Ind 4251.75(2) na 1504 1050* 100 575 0
14 Bhagavat A Mum Ind 4222.00(1) -57% 2101 0 40 0 0
15 Bipin Biha May Ind 4211.75(2) +4% 1550 230 913 1701 0
16 Hemagiri d Mum Ind 4093.25(1) +43% 1362 310 710 2817 0
17 Narayan Pa Sha Chi 4043.00(1) +526% 1519 118 0 3548 0
18 Harinam Kr May Ind 3764.75(2) na 1562 26 1082* 295 0
19 Mahapuran May Ind 3678.00(1) -45% 1520 300 76 1200 0
20 Bk Storm LA USA 3610.20(2) +185% 1110 460 791 2082 142
21 Tirtha Gov May Ind 3585.00(2) +111% 800 626 2352 732 0
22 Gaur Sunda LA USA 3401.10(2) na 1580 160 113 92 16
23 Gaur Lila Pun Ind 3326.00(2) na 1659 7 1 2 0
24 Tusta Ram May Ind 3294.50(2) na 1456 206 170 366 0
25 Deva Krsna RVC USA 3258.00(2) na 1326 542 0 256 0
26 Radha Krsn Mum Ind 3201.25(1) -54% 1399 121 301 527 0
27 Kishor Gop May Ind 3153.50(2) +181% 1568 5 20 10 0
28 Kamal Naya May Ind 2926.50(2) na 1368 8 30 670 0
29 Patit Uddh May Ind 2906.75(2) -6% 1322 174 158 39 0
30 Nava Gaura Tir Ind 2833.25(1) na 1087 192 100 1665 10
31 Gopal Bala May Ind 2827.00(2) na 1276 56 438 0 0
32 Sahasra Ne New Ind 2753.50(1) na 1049 82 320 1278 940
33 Prema Sank LA USA 2749.00(2) +159% 751 627 111 2258 0
34 Tirtha Kri Tir Ind 2731.75(1) -63% 989 179 155 1931 126
35 Udar Gour May Ind 2696.00(2) -55% 1348 0 0 0 0
36 Bhaktiman May Ind 2589.00(2) +67% 1012 0 1000 260 0
37 Ghanashyam Syd Aus 2588.50(2) na 1151 116 118 446 0
38 Bk Monoj May Ind 2581.00(2) +219% 965 639* 2 44 0
39 Subikram B May Ind 2507.00(2) +85% 1213 13 29 214 0
40 Brajananda RVC USA 2471.25(2) na 845 714 85 99 0
41 Kamalapati May Ind 2463.00(2) na 1218 16 16 12 0
42 Nityadham New Ind 2462.40(2) +95% 0 0 0 0 15352
43 Bk Carlos Gai USA 2408.50(2) +48% 796 582 98 742 0
44 Mohanasini New USA 2405.25(2) -32% 966 22 797 211 0
45 Dasya Prem RVC USA 2374.65(2) na 892 466 119 81 449
46 Bala Gopal May Ind 2345.00(2) na 1132 45 33 78 0
47 Lokeswar B May Ind 2255.75(2) na 1095 39 22 63 0
48 Bk Sanjiv May Ind 2224.00(2) na 1072 16 69 118 0
49 Nanda Dula May Ind 2173.50(2) +16% 1029 42 105 84 0
50 Kaunteya S Tir Ind 2170.75(1) na 775 112 100 1835 0
(%)Change compared (*)Better than
to Jan-Feb 2015 last year
Japathon-Congregational Mantra Meditation 
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Hladini Kirtan Band at your Home Programs
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By Gokulananda das Lord Caitanya's magnanimous desire was to bless the whole world with His infinite mercy by displaying His most sublime lila of tasting and widely distributing the supreme fruit of love of God, Krishna prema. He thus desired to engage all willing souls to help Him distribute His sublime gifts everywhere. To fulfill his divine desire, Lord Nityananda Mahajan became the chief distributor of this transcendental harvest of pure love through the chanting of the nectarean Holy Names of Lord Krishna, the Hare Krishna maha-mantra. And Lord Nityananda forever continues to fulfill Mahaprabhu's merciful desire by empowering so many worthy devoted souls with Gaura-shakti, the divine force to awaken bhakti in all hearts. Continue reading "Only Srila Prabhupada
→ Dandavats"
Sacred Sounds (Album with photos)
Indradyumna Swami: Today was the first day of the Sacred Sounds Festival at New Govardhana in Australia. Set in the beautiful rural countryside of New South Wales over 600 devotees enjoyed a day of classes, kirtans and delicious prasadam. All the action was perfectly captured by our dear Ananta Vrindavan dasa
Find them here: https://goo.gl/XjtGeF
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By Jagabandhu dasa Some time ago, when listening to Srila A. C. Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada sing Chintamani... I was struck with the thought of how the Holy Name is a Deity which he was bathing with the Devotion of his Singing. From that day on I strove in my own meager way to make the Holy Name(and the Vaishnavas) my Deity and all the world my temple. When I see all the countless suffering, sad and dying people in the world as exemplified by a simple trip to the supermarket, I whisper Hari! Hari! as we pass like ships in the ocean of illusion. By God's Grace, possibly He may overlook my many abysmal deficiencies and nonetheless travel off my tongue through the ear and into the heart of another soul forgetful of their own original nature. May they remember. In this life or the next. Or some future life. Somehow. Someway. Continue reading "Making all the world my temple
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Toronto’s Hare Krishna Temple - Festival Report - Gaura Purnima 2016 (Album with photos)
Picutres by Sahil Srivastava and Subhadra devi dasi
On a rainy, full moon Tuesday evening in March, devotees from Toronto’s Hare Krishna community gathered to celebrate the advent of one of the most merciful forms of Lord Krishna - Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu! A packed temple, filled with reveling devotees exploded with colours, kirtan and the aroma of a delectable vegetarian feast.
The evening began with kirtan (musical chanting) and continued with a class by Krsnadas Kaviraj das wherein he lovingly expounded on the appearance of Chaitanya over 500 years ago. He then weaved a beautiful picture of a famous pastime (story) of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu wherein He danced through the Jarikanda Forest, singing and dancing and the animals accompanied Him in the chanting and dancing as well.
In seamless fashion, the next part of the program featured a parade of smiling children dancing their way into the Temple Hall, both costumed and face-painted as tigers, monkeys, rabbits, butterflies and foxes. They were led by an actor playing the role of Chaitanya amidst joyful kirtan. Once glance at the audience was enough to prove that all hearts were melted instantaneously as the smiling children reenacted this most glorious story of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu!
As the costumed-kids settled in, the grand abhisheka took over. The abhisheka was a special “bathing ceremony” wherein small Deities of Lord Chaitanya and Lord Nityananda were lovingly bathed in various items like yogurt, milk, honey and more! The walls resounded with kirtan as colourful lights illuminated the Temple Hall.
A final kirtan (arati) was followed by a giant feast served for anyone and everyone! Spiritually contented, the community of devotees made their way home with memories of a very special evening dancing in the forest of their minds!
Find them here: https://goo.gl/6W5kjF
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On the auspicious occasion of the appearance day of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Dr Sahadeva Das offers two Esraj songs unto His divine lotus feet. These songs, ‘Ujjvala Varana Gaura Vara Deham’ and ‘Nava Gaura Varam’ were composed by Srila Sarvabhauma Bhattacharya. The melody has been taken from the albums of Bhakti Charu Swami.
Esraj is an important instrument in traditional vaisnava music and by the 1980s the instrument was nearly extinct. Of late, this instrument is seeing some revival. However only a handful players remain all over the world. The Esraj played here is carved out of a century old block of Burma teakwood. No effects or reverb have been added to the sound of the instrument.
