Hare Krishna Kirtan – H.G.Prahalad Prabhu at Prem Sarovar Barshana
Hare Krishna Kirtan – H.G.Prahalad Prabhu at Prem Sarovar Barshana
Am I Against Intoxication?
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I am not “against intoxication.” I just haven’t had been drunk or high for many, many years, and have lived the majority of my life that way. It’s not because I am “against it.” It’s because I practice yogic mantra-meditation and rarely have much, if any, interest in drinking or getting high. When the opportunities for intoxication arise I simply find that I don’t have a hunger for what it offers, or that I have better ways of accomplishing the same effects.
I’m not “against” it. I just don’t need it.
I think alcohol is a useful, practical social thing. Alcohol and drugs are also a part of Vedic culture. Soma, for example, is an intoxicant, and is practically the most essential ingredient in Vedic ritual. Pot, aka Cannabis Indica is (as the “Indica” part indicates) a native and deeply rooted part of Indin cultures for centuries, if not millenia. In fact, the vast majority of really traditional Indian culture considers alcohol a dangerous drug, but employs cannabis as the safe and socially acceptable drug.
I don’t recommend or promote drug use, but that doesn’t mean I am “against” it.
If someone wants to be a serious yogi (including bhakti-yoga) and advance in their meditation (including nāma-japa), I would unequivocally recommend that they abstain from significant drugs like alcohol, cannabis, and so on, because the goal of yoga is to gain full control of one’s mental powers, and drugs actually work against that (though in some ways they present an illusory facade of doing otherwise) because drugs free our mental powers from our intellectual control – the opposite of what yoga works towards.
But it’s hardly realistic to expect everyone to seriously practice yogic meditation (even many of the people who have some degree of sincere initial interest in yogic meditation) so I don’t see the point of preaching to such people that it’s extremely important that they immediately stop using social drugs like alcohol and cannabis in normal social contexts and to normal social extents.
Even when I was younger and was a “straightedge hardcore kid” the militant stuff like “bring back prohibition” and “I’ll kill you for blowing smoke in my face” just made me embarrassed or amused (respectively).
I acknowledge that there is definitely such a thing as “substance abuse.” People get carried away with a lot of things, including intoxication. It’s the “getting carried away” part that seems to be the essence of the problem. Drugs do seem to be dangerously prone to “getting carried away with” – and/or they seem to have more dramatic impact when we do get carried away with them, so I certainly respect and applaud anyone – yogi or not – who abstains from intoxication for whatever reason. But that’s hardly the same as saying I’m “against it.”
Manu puts it nicely in Manu-saṁhitā (5.56). “There is no evil in eating flesh, getting intoxicated, and having sex, for these are natural behaviors of embodied beings. There is no evil in these things, but abstaining from them is a great virtue.”
Tagged: cannabis, intoxication, marijuana, rules and regulations
ISKCON 50 Meditations: November 26, 2015
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Otherworldly
HG Deva Darsana Prabhu / Bg 17.14-28
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HG Balaram Prasad Prabhu / SB 10.89.48-49
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The Body Comes from the Soul
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This is Śrīmad Bhāgavatam 4.21.34 & 35…
Some of the scholars in the assembly seemed unconvinced that conventional duties could grant transcendental results. After all, such things were material but transcendental results are spiritual. “Spiritual” and “material” are certainly like day and night, they thought.
Seeing the look of confusion on their faces, Pṛthu explained that this dichotomy between material and spiritual is not very valid or deep. After all, everything is directly connected to the Supreme Transcendental Godhead. “Yes, he is beyond the limitations of this world,” Pṛthu said, “but all the countless limited things of this world are in him, too. All the different materials we use, all the qualities and talents we have, all the deeds we perform, and all the words and songs we say and sing… all of them exist within him. The names and forms of all of them attain their true spiritual significance when they are dedicated to serving him, who is the intrinsic form of concentrated, completely pure and distinct consciousness.
“This material body is produced by consciousness interacting with several things: the external reality, time, emotions, and the inherent principles of things. So, ultimately, the material body is a product of consciousness, spirit. It is therefore capable of achieving the greatest spiritual results – just as wood is capable of producing fire.
“Different types of wood produce different types of flame, similarly different endeavors with the material body can produce different results, even on the spiritual plane.”
– Excerpt from an early draft of Part 4 of
Beautiful Tales of the All-Attractive
A translation of Śrīmad Bhāgavatam’s fourth canto
By Vraja Kishor
Parts 1, 2, and 3 of Beautiful Tales of the All Attractive
are available at VrajaKishor.com
Tagged: body and soul, dualism, nondualism, not this body
Onions, Initiations, & Fingers
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Q: What’s the real reason for abstaining from onion, & garlic? I know that some sampradayas avoid from eating carrot too. Is it because they’re all roots of plants. We eat potatoes, but potatoes came to India later on, and maybe that’s why there is no rule about them?
It is an interesting theory, but then what about root vegetables that are a part of old Vedic tradition, like ginger, for example?
The onion/garlic thing is definitely mystifying, but I made a post about two years ago attempting to demystify it: Garlic Stinks?
Q: What’s the importance of initiation?
Initiation is a translation for the word dīkṣā. That word, dīkṣā, has two branches of meaning – one is “formal ceremony” and the other is “dedication of the self.” Śrī Jīva Goswāmī actually says that the best fullest meaning of dīkṣā is “the process of transmitting spiritual knowledge.”
The formal ceremony has its importance and shouldn’t be scoffed at or made light of. But in comparison the self-dedication to gaining spiritual knowledge (which is in fact the essence of the formal ceremony, as well) is the really important aspect of dīkṣā, or “initiation.”
With that in mind, it’s easy to understand “the importance of initiation.”
Q: One of the swāmīs I met told me that it’s impossible to get liberation without being initiated. Why is that, exactly?
Well, it should be clear why it is impossible to attain enlightenment without dedicating yourself to gaining spiritual knowledge (dīkṣā). But it is a dishonest mixing of word-meanings (probably unintentionally) to say that it is impossible to gain enlightenment without a formal ceremony (dīkṣā).
Q: What if, after some time, your ways become seperated from the guru, but you don’t break any of the basic 4 regulative principles? Will that initiation and your new spiritual name be still valid?
No, the bar-code validation on that initiation rubber stamp will have expired and require forms submitted in triplicate to the board of inquiry at Yamarāja’s district court.
Joking.
But joking to make a point that this “valid” concept is pretty weird.
The guru is the guide for your spiritual development. If you are moving away from one guru you are moving towards another – be it a traditional guru or not, be it human or not, be it another person or be it the voice in your own head/heart. Whatever guidance you are getting plays a huge role in determining where you will wind up, and how you will get there.
I think you would benefit by having a deeper concept of what “guru” is all about. I very recently made this video on the subject:
Q: Why do we put our index finger out of the bead bag while chanting?
Well, one thing is that a finger sticking out helps hold the bag on our hands. But besides that…
Different fingers represent different emotions and attitudes. The thumb expresses appreciation, admiration, and love (“thumbs up” then is probably no coincidence). The pointer/index finger represents ego and authority (we use it to tell people where to go, what to do, etc). The middle finger represents detachment (“Middle finger” = “I really don’t give a damn”). The fourth/ring finger represents morality (maybe its not a coincidence that its the place symbolic of our greatest conventional moral commitment – marriage). The fifth / pinky finger represents culture and refinement (Pinky in the air when you drink your tea).
We keep the pointer finger off the beads in as a mudra for keeping ego and prestige out of our spiritual practices.
We always chant with the thumb (love), and we usually use the middle finger to counterbalance, the finger of detachment. “Love for Krishna, detachment from ego.” vairāgya-yug bhakti.
But I’ve heard that Hari-bhakti-vilāsa (or a similarly authentic book) says that chanting on the fourth/ring finger is even more productive.
– Vraja Kishor das
please see my books and more at
www.vrajakishor.com
Tagged: Chanting, Garlic, Guru, guru-disciple, guru-disciple relationship
Positive Thinking 2 – Understanding the four kinds of thoughts
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Podcast
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The post Positive Thinking 2 – Understanding the four kinds of thoughts appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.
Choose to be ecstatic
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(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 02 February 2005)
There is only one adventure, the big adventure of crossing the ocean of nescience and going back to the spiritual world. But you do not get it for nothing! You have to do better. You have to regularly look at your performance and think, “What have I done wrong? I have to do better!”
If you don’t do better, you will become dry and you will be a materialistic devotee. It is not cheap to become a pure devotee but we can! And if we don’t become pure devotees, the alternative is that maya will pull us down. There is no neutral stage, it is either to be ecstatic or to be harassed by maya!
It is one of the two. There is no “in between” and it does not matter where we hide – it does not matter whether we hide in the garb of a renunciant or whether we hide on a mountain or whether we hide in working very hard… still it may not be enough to save us from the harassment of maya until we get really absorbed, until we really get very serious about offenseless chanting! That is where we have to put our energy in!
How I Came to Writing: Visakha Dasi
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Visakha Dasi has been a prolific author with her essays and books being widely appreciated by the Bhakti community and the Secular community as well. Her presentation of the timeless teachings of her Guru Srila Prabhupada in the Bhakti Tradition has been steady and deeply touching for many hearts. How did she start this service of writing? What keeps her inspired? What encouragement did she receive from Srila Prabhupada for this service? Watch this video to know more! For more such videos log onto http://www.bhaktiwomen.org/?q=content/BhaktiWomenShakti
An Inspirational Marathon Video from ISKCON London
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!
He was incredibly eager to hear the figures of how many books were being distributed. Indeed, he said it gave him life. When a new book was printed, Prabhupada felt as though he had conquered an empire. He told one disciple – “the best of me is in my books.”
Check out this amazingly inspirational video made by the dynamic devotees of ISKCON London:
How I Came to Writing and Srila Prabhupada’s Encouragement…
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How I Came to Writing and Srila Prabhupada’s Encouragement for That Service - HG Visakha Dasi (4 min video)
HG Visakha Dasi has been a prolific author with her essays and books being widely appreciated by the Bhakti community and the Secular community as well. Her presentation of the timeless teachings of her Guru Srila Prabhupada in the Bhakti Tradition has been steady and deeply touching for many hearts. How did she start this service of writing? What keeps her inspired? What encouragement did she receive from Srila Prabhupada for this service?
Watch it here: https://goo.gl/HR5oi3
Street Spirituality
→ Tattva - See inside out
Enter the monks. Yes, you read it right. Crazy as it may sound, this is where we spend many days and weeks; standing on street corners, speaking to random people, and showing them spiritual books. It’s quite a task to stop someone in their tracks, cut through the myriad of thoughts, penetrate the bubble of their life and begin a dialogue about deeper subject matter. Some people naturally tune in to the concept of spirituality and wisdom, while others are sceptical, uninterested and otherwise-engaged. Either way we always have a laugh, a smile and learn something from each other!
Amongst whatever else I do in life, this simple and sublime activity is what I relish most. It’s a humble attempt to positively contribute to the world, and something which reconnects me with my calling. Sometimes it’s agonizingly difficult, and other times it feels like a mystical drama being orchestrated by higher powers. Either way, it’s where I feel at home. My most memorable, magical and moving experiences in life have been in bustling high streets, sharing spirituality with people. With the arrival of the festive season, we embark upon another month-long marathon. This year it’s a special effort, and everyone’s invited to get involved (Facebook: www.facebook.com/sutapa.das.752)
Last Day Of Damodar Month At Iskcon Salem (Album with photos)…
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Last Day Of Damodar Month At Iskcon Salem (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Krishna is the root of everything. IF He is pleased, everyone will be pleased. If you pour water on the root, the water will be distributed all over the tree. This is the best service to humanity. Letter to Mr. Karsan, December 2, 1976.
Find them here: https://goo.gl/dtybiH
Muslim Leaders in Europe Condemn Terrorist Attacks
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"They claim to have done it in the name of God - far from it. Their work is the work of satan."
Rathayatra in Kumeu, New Zealand (Album with photos)
Srila…
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Rathayatra in Kumeu, New Zealand (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Vedic evidence is called sabda-brahma. The real essence of sabda-brahma is the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra. By vibrating this transcendental sound, the meaning of everything, both material and spiritual, is revealed. This Hare Krishna is non-different from the Personality of Godhead. (Srimad Bhagavatam, 4.24.40 Purport)
Find them here: https://goo.gl/z0kjFS
Meditating on the Damodarashtakam: Verses 5-8
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"The Lord, being the performer of unlimited pastimes, is the reservoir of unlimited ecstasy. In loving him, our heart’s deepest longings for happiness will be perennially and perfectly fulfilled."
How to Really Be Happy This Christmas
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When we send our children to school obviously we hope that they will be taught the truth. Well, at least some of the time. It seems that painful truths may have to wait, such as the non-existence of Santa Claus
ISKCON Plans 50 Padayatras for Its 50th Anniversary
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The Padayatra Worldwide Ministry headed by Lokanath Swami started to work on its offering of 50 padayatras on Gaura Purnima 2014. To this day 22 padayatras have taken place, 8 are being planned and 20 remain to be done by ISKCON devotees. ISKCON’s Padayatra Ministry is inviting all the devotees worldwide to participate in this glorification of ISKCON and Srila Prabhupada.
Nexus Conference 2015
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Eco-Ethical Integrated Sustainable solutions – Resolving Food, Water, Energy, Waste Nexus | Govardhan Eco Village – 31st Oct and 1st Nov 2015
By Nimai Lila das
Over the past few years, Govardhan Eco Village(GEV) has been making steady attempts to generate positive change waves on the social and environmental front through its multifarious programs and projects. GEV is frequently visited to witness a working model of spiritual ecology demonstrated with its efforts in areas like Organic Farming, Cow Care, Green building, Community living, Integrated waste management, Alternative Energy generation, Education, Rain water conservation, Floriculture and biodiversity projects. Today GEV is an acclaimed ecovillage showcasing a Symbiotic Development Model, wherein it utilizes natures intelligent design where in every system works in harmony with another. Against this backdrop, a two day National Eco conference titled Nexus Conference, which was a first of its kind event was held here. The conference was focused on the theme – ‘Eco-Ethical Integrated Sustainable solutions – Resolving Food, Water, Energy, Waste Nexus‘. The dates for the conference were 31st Oct and 1st Nov 2015.
The conference witnessed stimulating discourses, deliberation and dialogue in line with the above mentioned theme, under six major streams:
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Water Conservation
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Renewable Energy Management
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Waste – Improperly used resources
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Social Wellness
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Biodiversity Conservation
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Sustainable Agriculture Practices
The main objective of the Nexus Conference 2015 was to bring in ideas, views and experiences on integrated sustainable solutions from renowned speakers, practitioners & leaders and cast them into working solutions for a sustainable and synergistic future for all of us. Noted personalities like Dr. Claude Alvares, Dr. Sultan Ismail, Mr. Ajay Piramal, Dr. Amiya Sahu along with environmental activists like Mr. Arun Krishnamurty and Dr. M. B. Nirmal shared the stage in this two day event The conference took place at the newly constructed Yoga Studio facing the Western Ghats. It saw an outstanding presence of over 250 audience across all age groups and occupations. The biggest highlight of the event was the inspirational talk given by noted personality Smt. Kiran Bedi, who lauded the efforts of HH Radhanath Swami and the entire GEV team in her talk. The Nexus Conference 2015 was powered by Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India. The Conference was a success on account of the combined efforts of Govardhan Eco Village, Share Your Care, Artha Forum and Wada College of Management & Science.
The conference saw a fusion of knowledge and best practices from Eminent Environmentalists, Corporates, Spiritual Leaders, Academia, and Students. It brought forth valuable experiences and learnings in the respective areas of discussions. A common theme in all the sessions was the realization that environmental degradation has its close links to rampant exploitation of natural resources and our worsening human lifestyles, which warrants the dire need to spread Srila Prabhupada’s instruction of ‘simple living and high thinking’. The conference also brought home the importance of ‘Respect and Compassion’ in Environmental Conservation. It delved into the importance of water conservation and how by community initiatives our water bodies can be conserved. It underscored the importance of waste as a valuable resource. Even the food we eat can be sustainable if produced through organic practices without affecting the native vegetation.
The conference witnessed sharing of knowledge on best sustainable practices by providing an opportunity for exchange of ideas and views between the audience and the Experts. The best part of the conference was the GEV tour of the Symbiotic Development model by the experts themselves. This gave the audience an opportunity to witness the Internationally recognized and Award winning Govardhan Eco Village and learn from the experts themselves who helped to develop the Symbiotic Development Model. The venue was most opportune to host this one of its kind Nexus Conference. The Nexus Conference was a sure success and would continue to positively influence people in the days to come.
Two kinds of happiness – one works the other one doesn’t
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The post Two kinds of happiness – one works the other one doesn’t appeared first on SivaramaSwami.com.
Friday, November 20th, 2015
→ The Walking Monk
Friday, November 20th, 2015
Brampton, Ontario
Brampton, Ontario
Going For A Cleaning
I was sitting in the dentist’s chair while the assistant was working at cleaning my teeth. At one point, I began to slightly fade, a moment of fatigue hit me and the assistant could feel my teeth closing in on her fingers.
“Sleepy?” she asked.
“Yes, a bit.”
I had little time to say much more as she had to press on with her work but when I saw the opportunity I asked her, “Does it happen to many clients or am I the only one?”
“Yes, it happens enough, especially at this time of day.” It was 3 PM.
It was a consolation hearing that. I lingered in that thought, reasoning that if I’m a trite tired it’s because I’m working hard for our mission in sharing higher consciousness with others.
The assistant did a nice job. I was complimented for keeping my teeth maintained well, although in the past my brushing was too aggressive. I take pride in the preservation of my teeth. I believe it is maya, illusion, to neglect the body God has given us to use as a tool in service to others.
I asked the assistant, “Your name?”
“Sophia.”
“As in Loren?”
“I wish,” she said and with a great smile.
From the dental clinic, Mandala, who was waiting for me, and I walked to the home of a Krishna devotee. We took the scenic route and captured the willow trees, golden leafed and set against a bold blue sky, on our iPhone camera. It was such a clean look. And that’s how we have to be – clean in consciousness before leaving this world.
May the Source be with you!
5 km
Daily Darshan : November 25th, 2015
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The post Daily Darshan : November 25th, 2015 appeared first on Mayapur.com.
Harinama Sankirtana in Moscow, Russia (Album with photos)
Srila…
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Harinama Sankirtana in Moscow, Russia (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Lord Krishna stresses the importance of remembering Him. One‘s memory of Krishna is revived by chanting the maha-mantra, Hare Krishna. By this practice of chanting and hearing the sound vibration of the Supreme Lord, one’s ear, tongue and mind are engaged. This mystic meditation is very easy to practice, and it helps one attain the Supreme Lord. (Bhagavad-Gita 8.8 Purport)
Find them here: https://goo.gl/U1VA6P
The Messenger (34 min video)
Tribute to Srila Prabhupada…
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The Messenger (34 min video)
Tribute to Srila Prabhupada performed by the students of the Bhaktivedanta Academy, Alachua, on November 14th, 2015.
Watch it here: https://goo.gl/DFhVun
TOVP Facebook Page Reaches 250,000 Likes!
The TOVP Facebook…
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TOVP Facebook Page Reaches 250,000 Likes!
The TOVP Facebook Page recently achieved a landmark 250,000 Likes! All glories to Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and all glories to His devotees.
Find it here: https://www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
TOVP: Electrical Work Begins (Album with photos)
The first…
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TOVP: Electrical Work Begins (Album with photos)
The first phase of the electrical work has started.
This phase consists in applying the conduits ( a tube for protecting electric wires) in the 8 staircases. This step must be done before cladding the walls with marble.
Find them here: http://goo.gl/gVfZsV
Positive Thinking 1 – Countering external and internal negativity
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Lecture Podcast
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Govinda’s Philadelphia is looking for devotees with a passion for prasadam distribution
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Govinda’s Philadelphia is looking for devotees with a passion for prasadam distribution. Available positions include server and line cook. Server duties include register, light food prep, stocking goods, and maintaining cleanliness. Line cook should have experience working in a kitchen or with an industrial grill in a fast paced environment. Full or part time. Please send inquiries to Haryasva dasa at 1-267-242-4805 or govindasvegetarian@gmail.com. Hare Krishna.
ISKCON SCOTLAND looking for volunteers
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ISKCON SCOTLAND @ KARUNA BHAVAN are currently looking for volunteers to reside and be trained as brahmacaris (celibate monks). We will provide good brahmacari training, association and a variety of service opportunities. We will also provide accommodation, Prasad and any necessary items such as toiletries, clothing and reasonable travel expenses.
We do not offer financial remuneration or stipend.
All interested applicants should contact Raghunatha Bhatta Das
By Email: gouranga108@googlemail.com
Thank You,
Your Servant
Prabhupada Prana Das
(Karuna Bhavan Temple President)
Reaching Our Fullest Potential with Krishna Consciousness
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By Sri Nandanandana dasa These days fewer people are interested in taking up anything that they cannot immediately apply to their lives. The common question is: “What is this going to do for me?” Or “What am I going to get out of this?” So if we cannot relate the purpose of Vedic culture or its spirituality to people today, especially to the youth, then it is not likely they will take an interest. Yet, everyone is interested in gaining more out of life, or reaching their higher potential, which, actually, has been the purpose of the Vedic system from time immemorial. Yet we have either forgotten that, or have failed to present that purpose properly. So this is one angle we can use to impress the importance of Vedic culture or Krishna consciousness and its spiritual philosophy to people today. Everyone should want to reach their highest potential. But to do this we also need to focus on our spiritual potential, which is actually a way to become much more refined, developed and useful than merely focusing on our material possibilities, or only developing marketable skills for earning a big paycheck. Continue reading "Reaching Our Fullest Potential with Krishna Consciousness
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WSN October 2015 – World Sankirtan Newsletter
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Hare Krsna,
Two countries increased the most in October: Sri Lanka and Kazakhstan.
Sri Lanka increased by 999%, with 4,111 book points. We haven’t seen a lot of book distribution there, but from now on we’ll probably see more. Just as in Sri Lanka, Ravana was defeated by Lord Ramacandra, similarly, maya will be overcome by Krsna in the form of books whenever people receive and read them.
Kazakhstan also increased by 999%, with 3,964 book points. Despite all the difficulties these devotees have faced, they continued distributing books, and Krsna has rewarded them. All glories to their determination!
Srila Prabhupada said, “If our books are distributed nationwide, that is the success of our movement.” (Letter dated 14 September 1974)
Some temples have already started the Prabhupada Marathon, but most will start at the beginning of December. For people all over the world this is a very fortunate time, for this is when devotees increase the distribution of Srila Prabhupada’s books. This gives more people than usual an opportunity to awaken from the illusory dream they are living. Through book distribution we introduce them to Krsna, their supreme father and friend. This gives them the chance to engage in devotional service and experience the nectar they’re all looking for.
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
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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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October 2015 11/24/2015
For the pleasure of Srila Prabhupada this page
contains the following results for the month of October 2015.
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 October 2015, 139 temples reported *
* distributing the following number of books: *
* *
* 172,647 Maha-big books *
* 84,823 Big books *
* 102,277 Medium books *
* 320,481 Small books *
* 53,848 Magazines *
* 4,087 BTG subscriptions *
* 2,554 Full sets *
* *
* 758,598 literatures for the month *
* 4,876,402 literatures year-to-date *
* 517,453,347 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 _
8XX.....X.X.X.X...........X.X.X.X.X.X..................................._.X
XX X x X X X X x X X X X X X x X X X
6XX.X...X.X.X.X.X.X.......X.X.X.X.X.X.X.X.......................x.X.X.X.X.X
XX 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
4XX.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
XX 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
2XX.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.X
XX 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 X
0XX_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_X
78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98 00 02 04 06 08 10 12 14
World Sankirtan Newsletter
CONGREGATIONAL PREACHING
October 2015
Congregation and % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Weekend Warriors Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Nama Hatta Dept May Ind 8122.75 +113% 2606 1055 884 5655* 0
2 WW Team ISV Week Sil USA 4416.25 -2% 2056 27 0 1109 0
3 WW Dallas Dal USA 2527.75*+999% 1093* 214 152* 207* 0
4 Bhakti Lounge Ph Phi USA 710.75*+128% 288* 16 91 293 0
5 WW Toronto WW Tor Can 367.75 -29% 119 18 86 255 6
6 LA Sastra Dana LA USA 260.00 -31% 0 0 200 640 0
7 WW Texarkana WW Tex USA 27.40 +68% 12 0 0 12* 4
8 WW Bhakti Lounge Bha Can 20.00 -96% 8 1 5 2 0
9 WW Arkadelphia W Ark USA 10.25 -44% 4 2 0 1 0
10 WW Kostroma Kos Rus 8.75 +1% 0 4 2 15 0
11 WW Vologda WW Vol Rus 6.75 -55% 0 0 2 23 0
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
**** Page 3 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
MONTHLY CONTINENTS
October 2015
% of M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs Full
Continent (temples) Points World Books Books Books Books Mags Sets
_________________________________________________________________________
1 Asia (24) 312431.50 54% 106359 27862 29713 172112 61961 2478
2 CIS (25) 141507.25 25% 36545 27097 39529 85939 710 0
3 North America (24) 61908.00 11% 19370 11008 9841 25234 9266 63
4 Europe (28) 27392.70 5% 6730 5039 14579 4472 4862 5
5 Latin America (16) 22949.65 4% 770 12083 7302 22457 614 0
6 Australasia (5) 7047.55 1% 2529 1204 735 1535 343 4
7 Africa (17) 3751.40 1% 344 530 578 8732 614 4
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN TEMPLES BY SIZE
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
TOP TEN LARGE TEMPLES (41+ devotees)
1 Mayapur Ind146807.75 +145% 55599 14914* 18751* 45281* 0
2 Mumbai-Juhu Ind 31706.00* +37% 12415 1429 3945* 13898* 0
3 Moscow Rus 27255.25* +99% 9520* 4600* 3772 6917 0
4 Vrindavan Ind 24770.25* +38% 2139 6348 0 56577* 0
5 New Delhi Ind 17482.60 -19% 5526 264 2551 13728 14591
6 Los Angeles USA 15935.05 -1% 3792 3397 4978 9845* 38
7 Tirupati Ind 15548.35 +8% 5156 708 598 11023 9055
8 Pune Ind 6887.35 -24% 2637 322 330 3131 2873
9 Mumbai-Chowpatty Ind 6466.00 +67% 1952 544 749 6298 690*
10 Mumbai-Kharghar Ind 5731.75* +77% 2574* 372* 54 739* 0
TOP TEN MEDIUM TEMPLES (21-40 devotees)
1 New Delhi(Punj.Bag Ind 12665.45 +3% 5488 196 68 913 7676*
2 VV Nagar Ind 8790.00*+382% 493 418 30 4034*15270*
3 Novosibirsk Rus 7296.00 na 894 2379 3765 4986 0
4 Moscow-Jagannath Rus 7044.25 -6% 2595 624 689 3543* 0
5 Ujjain Ind 5584.25 -15% 1143 1543 1850 3321 0
6 Samara Rus 5382.25 na 1723 612 1276 2745 0
7 Sydney-North Aus 4435.35 +20% 1981 107 489 485 6
8 Dallas USA 4418.15*+165% 1913* 328* 248* 535* 64
9 London-Soho Eng 4274.75 +4% 1191 518* 2538 423 0
10 Vladivostok Rus 4208.25 na 1267 88 737 4871 0
TOP TEN SMALL TEMPLES (6-20 devotees)
1 RupanugaVedicColle USA 15896.40 +22% 5688 3522 410 1398 4439
2 Irkutsk Rus 11731.75*+325% 2987* 2643* 2569* 7321* 0
3 Barnaul Rus 10761.75*+151% 3217* 1165* 3832* 4987* 0
4 Sochi Rus 10325.00 na 1876 3218 3994 5432 0
5 Krasnoyarsk Rus 10276.50*+512% 2189* 2695* 2236* 8342* 0
6 Kazan Rus 8333.00*+250% 876* 914* 6897* 8874* 0
7 Kursk Rus 8257.25 na 2431 2379 1127 1811 0
8 Omsk Rus 7835.00 -21% 2448* 1887 530 2864 710
9 Surat Ind 7804.25* +48% 2658* 244 185 4837* 2262
10 Cueramaro Mex 4944.25 +74% 111 2637* 2068 4205 0
TOP TEN MAHA-SMALL TEMPLES (1-5 devotees)
1 Nitai Gauranga TSK Bra 6693.50 +5% 8 6470 415 0 0
2 TBB TSKP USA 4532.00*+122% 843 1399* 1291* 3206* 0
3 Batticaloa Sri 4111.50* +76% 1874* 138 0 502 1000*
4 Baltimore USA 2580.95 -34% 768 13 50 3209 2047
5 Prabhupada Bhavan- Cze 1910.00 +43% 102 1706 0 0 0
6 Bhakti Lounge (Phi USA 710.75*+128% 288* 16 91 293 0
7 Spain BBT Spa 703.00 +30% 185 145 100 552* 0
8 Recife Bra 614.85 -16% 0 71 53 1847 556*
9 Sofia Bul 518.25 -65% 190 25 194 65 0
10 Heidelberg Ger 324.00 -11% 13 106 384 0 0
**** Page 4 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN TEMPLES BY CONTINENT
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________
TOP TEN TEMPLES - ASIA
1 Mayapur Ind146807.75 +172% 55599 14914 18751 45281 0
2 Mumbai-Juhu Ind 31706.00 +52% 12415 1429 3945 13898 0
3 Vrindavan Ind 24770.25 +56% 2139 6348 0 56577 0
4 New Delhi Ind 17482.60 -11% 5526 264 2551 13728 14591
5 Tirupati Ind 15548.35 +21% 5156 708 598 11023 9055
6 New Delhi(Punj.Bag Ind 12665.45 +15% 5488 196 68 913 7676
7 VV Nagar Ind 8790.00 +442% 493 418 30 4034 15270
8 Surat Ind 7804.25 +66% 2658 244 185 4837 2262
9 Pune Ind 6887.35 -14% 2637 322 330 3131 2873
10 Mumbai-Chowpatty Ind 6466.00 +91% 1952 544 749 6298 690
TOP TEN TEMPLES - CIS
1 Moscow Rus 27255.25 +127% 9520 4600 3772 6917 0
2 Irkutsk Rus 11731.75 +750% 2987 2643 2569 7321 0
3 Barnaul Rus 10761.75 +402% 3217 1165 3832 4987 0
4 Sochi Rus 10325.00 na 1876 3218 3994 5432 0
5 Krasnoyarsk Rus 10276.50 +716% 2189 2695 2236 8342 0
6 Kazan Rus 8333.00 +425% 876 914 6897 8874 0
7 Kursk Rus 8257.25 na 2431 2379 1127 1811 0
8 Omsk Rus 7835.00 +58% 2448 1887 530 2864 710
9 Novosibirsk Rus 7296.00 na 894 2379 3765 4986 0
10 Moscow-Jagannath Rus 7044.25 +17% 2595 624 689 3543 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - NORTH AMERICA
1 Los Angeles USA 15935.05 +10% 3792 3397 4978 9845 38
2 RupanugaVedicColle USA 15896.40 +37% 5688 3522 410 1398 4439
3 TBB TSKP USA 4532.00 +147% 843 1399 1291 3206 0
4 Dallas USA 4418.15 +195% 1913 328 248 535 64
5 Silicon Valley(ISV USA 4416.25 +9% 2056 27 0 1109 0
6 Gainesville USA 2986.75 +76% 855 806 700 483 0
7 Baltimore USA 2580.95 -26% 768 13 50 3209 2047
8 Denver USA 2352.25 -26% 597 525 433 1587 200
9 Chicago USA 1790.75 +6% 534 388 377 531 135
10 New Talavan USA 1538.50 +4% 620 26 517 56 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - EUROPE
1 Sankirtan Dham TST Ita 4867.00 -1% 1465 0 3874 0 0
2 London-Soho Eng 4274.75 +16% 1191 518 2538 423 0
3 Bhaktivedanta Mano Eng 2665.50 -34% 709 124 2228 38 0
4 Simhachalam (NJNK) Ger 2496.00 -24% 849 119 1358 0 0
5 Budapest Hun 2313.40 +76% 680 509 13 728 2559
6 Prabhupada Bhavan- Cze 1910.00 +58% 102 1706 0 0 0
7 New Vrajadham-Hung Hun 1691.55 +66% 411 301 230 893 2303
8 Berlin Ger 962.50 +26% 309 123 443 0 0
9 Prague Cze 775.75 +56% 122 430 7 393 0
10 Spain BBT Spa 703.00 +49% 185 145 100 552 0
TOP TEN TEMPLES - LATIN AMERICA
1 Nitai Gauranga TSK Bra 6693.50 +22% 8 6470 415 0 0
2 Cueramaro Mex 4944.25 +95% 111 2637 2068 4205 0
3 Mexico City Mex 3750.00 +105% 296 500 2022 6588 0
4 Curitiba Bra 2702.50 +8% 215 1679 673 1016 30
5 Guadalajara Mex 1353.00 +375% 20 100 1440 1972 0
6 Buenos Aires Arg 1175.00 -18% 24 39 0 4352 0
7 Sao Paulo Bra 742.00 +74% 65 363 125 746 0
8 Recife Bra 614.85 -6% 0 71 53 1847 556
9 Queretaro Mex 340.00 +63% 20 52 320 352 0
10 Natal Bra 285.00 +22% 2 91 15 722 20
TOP TEN TEMPLES - AUSTRALASIA
1 Sydney-North Aus 4435.35 +33% 1981 107 489 485 6
2 Auckland Br. Ashra New 1752.20 -2% 332 865 59 772 7
3 Wellington New 398.90 -2% 65 214 15 140 124
4 Melbourne Aus 339.50 -27% 139 10 39 128 0
5 Brisbane Aus 121.60 +42% 12 8 133 10 206
TOP TEN TEMPLES - AFRICA
1 Bon Accueil Mau 945.00 +139% 0 280 165 2330 0
2 Durban Sou 926.65 +67% 63 79 173 2537 9
3 Kinshasa Con 437.00 -13% 145 30 0 468 0
4 Nairobi Ken 431.60 -12% 49 54 33 1052 1
5 Lenasia Sou 225.60 +37% 38 22 100 96 536
6 Mpumalanga Sou 197.75 +152% 0 2 14 755 0
7 Benin Nig 165.75 na 0 2 10 635 0
8 Blantyre Mal 121.00 +45% 13 21 0 296 0
9 Phoenix(MA) Mau 71.35 -93% 11 11 18 111 16
10 Lusaka Zam 41.85 +152% 6 17 2 43 11
**** Page 5 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TEAM BOOK DISTRIBUTION
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Sri Caitanya Can Pun Ind 1654.50 +60% 822 0 1 40 0
2 Sunder Madhav d New Ind 1520.00 -33% 500 0 0 2080 0
3 Prakash d Pun Ind 1116.00 na 530 14 19 130 0
4 Vallabh Caitanya Pun Ind 850.65 -44% 183 176 126 979 9
5 Krishna Katha d Pun Ind 535.75 +62% 179 30 50 491 0
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP 50 INDIVIDUALS
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 HH Jayapataka Sw May Ind12000.00*+185% 6000* 0 0 0 0
2 Radha Krsna d Mum Ind10820.75* +83% 4595* 526 1116 2187* 0
3 Keshav Murari d New Ind 9000.00*+246% 4500* 0 0 0 0
4 Bhagavat Ashraya Mum Ind 7326.00*+271% 2422* 240 1480* 6008* 0
5 Bipin Bihari d May Ind 6859.25*+393% 2208* 1830* 260 1933* 0
6 Caitanya Candra Cen Bra 6693.50 +8% 8 6470 415 0 0
7 Madhusundar d New Ind 5562.00 -16% 2000 0 1871 2506 0
8 Bk Nirmal May Ind 4521.25*+348% 2094* 72 174* 697* 0
9 Bk Gopal May Ind 4258.00*+196% 1882* 17* 3* 1902* 0
10 Bk Jay Khush LA USA 4214.65 +46% 1532 558 1001 365* 9
11 Dasavatara d Oms Rus 4149.45 na 1012 1293 421 2339 372
12 Nava Gauravara d Tir Ind 4129.00 +21% 1670* 198 124 2116 0
13 Srutakirti d Bat Sri 4111.50* +88% 1874* 138* 0 502* 1000*
14 Uddhava Madhava Mum Ind 4034.00*+999% 2017* 0 0 0 0
15 Mahapuran d May Ind 3815.00* +76% 1020* 500* 1200* 2700* 0
16 Padapadma d May Ind 3688.75*+494% 1208* 559* 886* 1083* 0
17 Paramesvara d RVC USA 3103.25 -7% 1072 690 86 145 1900
18 Banamali Mukunda May Ind 3052.25*+207% 1432* 112* 113* 79 0
19 Ananda Kirtan d LA USA 3023.05 +25% 1053 255 1058 531 3
20 Bahurup Jagannat May Ind 2939.00*+494% 1164* 305* 349* 526* 0
21 Arun Govinda d May Ind 2833.75*+280% 1313* 101* 84* 259* 0
22 Krishna Bhagavan RVC USA 2814.05 +45% 1019 526 29 447 1238*
23 Brajananda d RVC USA 2748.20 +34% 1001 703 27* 4 287
24 Nandanandana Gov Tir Ind 2561.45 -9% 1017 119 102 1275 216
25 Keshava Balaram New Ind 2484.70 -27% 788 137 207 278 5531*
26 Deva Krsna d RVC USA 2460.25 +3% 1069 279* 0 173 0
27 Dharmaraja d RVC USA 2389.25 +179% 692* 907 0 393* 0
28 Hemagiri d Mum Ind 2372.75 -21% 703 189 441 2229 0
29 Govind Murari d Mum Ind 2321.00 -11% 1128 65 0 0 0
30 Bk Binay Krishna May Ind 2303.25*+303% 1029* 14* 411* 103* 0
31 Tirtha Krishna d Tir Ind 2302.75 -24% 821 153 102 1761 146
32 Ghanashyam Govin Syd Aus 1867.75 +41% 841 84 157 93 0
33 Bhrgupati d LA USA 1850.50 +38% 562 436 284 594 0
34 Tribhanga Shyam May Ind 1755.25*+309% 778* 70* 134* 249* 0
35 Tirtha Govinda d May Ind 1694.25*+113% 570* 192* 319* 811* 0
36 Premdata d May Ind 1659.00 +264% 626 164 207 558 0
37 Harinam Kripa Si May Ind 1652.25*+168% 624* 60* 337* 703* 0
38 Bk Ranjit May Ind 1651.75*+472% 481* 113* 345* 1617* 0
39 Anupam Krishna d Mos Rus 1604.00 +24% 802 0 0 0 0
40 Bala Gopal d May Ind 1598.25*+297% 730* 47* 77* 211* 0
41 Bk Carlos Gai USA 1553.75*+138% 457* 439* 279 245 0
42 Advaita Simha d Ujj Ind 1551.50 +11% 544 332 234 58 0
43 Krishna Caran d Mum Ind 1517.50 +24% 488 157 655 228 0
44 Mohanasini dd New USA 1498.50 -8% 620 26 437 56 0
45 Gour Nataraj d May Ind 1413.75*+343% 544* 143* 180* 371* 0
46 Nitya Mukta d Tir Ind 1380.75*+534% 512* 49* 53* 639* 740
47 Dasya Prema d RVC USA 1319.50 -9% 501 243 89 0 300
48 Parama Karuna d Chi USA 1299.00 +9% 416 244 313 266 0
49 Sura d Mum Ind 1283.25*+123% 580* 87* 0 145* 0
50 Samaveda d Mum Ind 1283.25* +39% 580* 87* 0 145* 0
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
**** Page 6 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
ALL COUNTRIES
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Country (Temples) Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
________________________________________________________________________
1 India (21) 306852.60 +154% 103915 27657 29645 170786 60757
2 Russia, CIS (23) 135988.75 +215% 35252 26449 38527 78805 710
3 United States (20) 60390.75 -2% 18930 10772 9370 24605 9225
4 Brazil (9) 11213.85 +13% 290 8749 1328 4641 606
5 Mexico (4) 10387.25 +175% 447 3289 5850 13117 0
6 United Kingdom (2) 6940.25 -6% 1900 642 4766 461 0
7 Italy (5) 6346.50 +107% 1660 0 6053 0 0
8 Australia (3) 4896.45 -68% 2132 125 661 623 212
9 GermanyAustria (6) 4116.00 -34% 1219 400 2556 0 0
10 Sri Lanka 4111.50 +999% 1874 138 0 502 1000
11 Hungary (2) 4004.95 +94% 1091 810 243 1621 4862
12 Kazakhstan, CIS 3964.75 +999% 865 548 714 5319 0
13 Czech Republic (2) 2685.75 -40% 224 2136 7 393 0
14 New Zealand (2) 2151.10 +48% 397 1079 74 912 131
15 Belarus, CIS 1553.75 na 428 100 288 1815 0
16 South Africa (8) 1506.85 -23% 119 113 345 3699 586
17 Argentina 1175.00 +32% 24 39 0 4352 0
18 Canada (3) 1098.20 -27% 322 192 276 474 13
19 Mauritius (2) 1016.35 +92% 11 291 183 2441 16
20 Indonesia 903.85 -70% 367 51 67 261 201
21 Spain (2) 902.00 +888% 234 246 100 552 0
22 Sing 563.55 na 203 16 1 563 3
23 Bulgaria 518.25 +2% 190 25 194 65 0
24 Lithuania (2) 493.50 -23% 144 52 4 606 0
25 Switzerland 446.75 +153% 44 227 262 3 0
26 Portugal 437.50 na 12 411 4 2 0
27 Congo(D.R.) 437.00 -33% 145 30 0 468 0
28 Kenya 431.60 -76% 49 54 33 1052 1
29 Croatia 283.25 na 3 47 349 223 0
30 Nigeria (2) 174.00 -67% 0 4 15 650 0
31 Puerto Rico 150.75 na 2 6 115 333 0
32 Slovenia 143.75 na 2 13 16 475 0
33 Malawi 121.00 +21% 13 21 0 296 0
34 Zambia 41.85 +186% 6 17 2 43 11
35 Bosnia 40.00 -84% 0 20 25 30 0
36 Romania 34.25 na 7 10 0 41 0
37 Dominican Republic 22.80 na 7 0 9 14 8
38 Ivory Coast 22.75 -55% 1 0 0 83 0
(%)Change compared
to Oct last year
**** Page 7 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
ALL TEMPLES
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Temples (size) Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Mayapur (L) Ind146807.75 +145% 55599 14914* 18751* 45281* 0
2 Mumbai-Juhu (L) Ind 31706.00* +37% 12415 1429 3945* 13898* 0
3 Moscow (L) Rus 27255.25* +99% 9520* 4600* 3772 6917 0
4 Vrindavan (L) Ind 24770.25* +38% 2139 6348 0 56577* 0
5 New Delhi (L) Ind 17482.60 -19% 5526 264 2551 13728 14591
6 Los Angeles (L) USA 15935.05 -1% 3792 3397 4978 9845* 38
7 RupanugaVedicColle USA 15896.40 +22% 5688 3522 410 1398 4439
8 Tirupati (L) Ind 15548.35 +8% 5156 708 598 11023 9055
9 New Delhi(Punj.Bag Ind 12665.45 +3% 5488 196 68 913 7676*
10 Irkutsk (S) Rus 11731.75*+325% 2987* 2643* 2569* 7321* 0
11 Barnaul (S) Rus 10761.75*+151% 3217* 1165* 3832* 4987* 0
12 Sochi (S) Rus 10325.00 na 1876 3218 3994 5432 0
13 Krasnoyarsk (S) Rus 10276.50*+512% 2189* 2695* 2236* 8342* 0
14 VV Nagar (M) Ind 8790.00*+382% 493 418 30 4034*15270*
15 Kazan (S) Rus 8333.00*+250% 876* 914* 6897* 8874* 0
16 Kursk (S) Rus 8257.25 na 2431 2379 1127 1811 0
17 Omsk (S) Rus 7835.00 -21% 2448* 1887 530 2864 710
18 Surat (S) Ind 7804.25* +48% 2658* 244 185 4837* 2262
19 Novosibirsk (M) Rus 7296.00 na 894 2379 3765 4986 0
20 Moscow-Jagannath ( Rus 7044.25 -6% 2595 624 689 3543* 0
21 Pune (L) Ind 6887.35 -24% 2637 322 330 3131 2873
22 Nitai Gauranga TSK Bra 6693.50 +5% 8 6470 415 0 0
23 Mumbai-Chowpatty ( Ind 6466.00 +67% 1952 544 749 6298 690*
24 Mumbai-Kharghar (L Ind 5731.75* +77% 2574* 372* 54 739* 0
25 Ujjain (M) Ind 5584.25 -15% 1143 1543 1850 3321 0
26 Samara (M) Rus 5382.25 na 1723 612 1276 2745 0
27 Cueramaro (S) Mex 4944.25 +74% 111 2637* 2068 4205 0
28 Sankirtan Dham TST Ita 4867.00 -15% 1465 0 3874 0 0
29 Krasnodar (S) Rus 4731.00*+107% 653 789 2876* 4792* 0
30 TBB TSKP (MS) USA 4532.00*+122% 843 1399* 1291* 3206* 0
31 Sydney-North (M) Aus 4435.35 +20% 1981 107 489 485 6
32 Dallas (M) USA 4418.15*+165% 1913* 328* 248* 535* 64
33 Silicon Valley(ISV USA 4416.25 -2% 2056 27 0 1109 0
34 London-Soho (M) Eng 4274.75 +4% 1191 518* 2538 423 0
35 Vladivostok (M) Rus 4208.25 na 1267 88 737 4871 0
36 Ahmedabad (M) Ind 4169.50 -32% 1585 0 337 1974 810
37 Batticaloa (MS) Sri 4111.50* +76% 1874* 138 0 502 1000*
38 Salem (M) Ind 4018.00 -31% 1951 35 0 324 0
39 Almaty (L) Kaz 3964.75*+348% 865* 548* 714* 5319* 0
40 Rostov-na-Donu (M) Rus 3783.00 na 598 986 1764 2876 0
41 Mexico City (M) Mex 3750.00* +82% 296 500* 2022* 6588 0
42 Volgograd (S) Rus 3508.25 na 654 876 1267 2763 0
43 Gainesville (M) USA 2986.75* +58% 855* 806 700 483 0
44 Curitiba (S) Bra 2702.50 -4% 215 1679 673* 1016 30
45 Bhaktivedanta Mano Eng 2665.50 -41% 709 124 2228 38 0
46 Baltimore (MS) USA 2580.95 -34% 768 13 50 3209 2047
47 Simhachalam (NJNK) Ger 2496.00 -32% 849 119 1358* 0 0
48 Denver (M) USA 2352.25 -34% 597 525 433 1587 200
49 Budapest (L) Hun 2313.40 +57% 680* 509 13 728 2559
50 Vellore (S) Ind 2157.50*+188% 504 0 0 108 2770*
51 Prabhupada Bhavan- Cze 1910.00 +43% 102 1706 0 0 0
52 Novorosiysk (S) Rus 1871.25*+151% 198* 289* 378 3989* 0
53 Chicago (S) USA 1790.75 -5% 534 388 377 531 135
54 Auckland Br. Ashra New 1752.20 -27% 332 865 59* 772 7
55 New Vrajadham-Hung Hun 1691.55* +50% 411 301* 230 893 2303*
56 Minsk (M) Bel 1553.75 -23% 428 100 288 1815* 0
57 New Talavan (S) USA 1538.50 -8% 620 26 517 56 0
58 Bhopal (S) Ind 1478.50 -3% 569 255* 79 184 0
59 Tirunelveli (S) Ind 1430.90 -13% 536 8 4 536 2149
60 Laguna Beach (S) USA 1354.25 +23% 512 147* 71 355 590*
61 Guadalajara (S) Mex 1353.00*+296% 20 100* 1440* 1972* 0
62 Buenos Aires (M) Arg 1175.00 -30% 24 39 0 4352 0
63 Perm (M) Rus 1158.50 -42% 446 15 397 212 0
64 Mayapur World SKP Ind 1115.00 na 210 0 0 2780 0
65 Madurai (S) Ind 1041.20 -37% 382 15 1 42 2512*
66 Berlin (S) Ger 962.50 +12% 309 123 443 0 0
67 Toronto (S) Can 955.60 -9% 289 169 214 384 12
68 Bon Accueil (M) Mau 945.00* +79% 0 280* 165* 2330* 0
69 Ekaterinburg (M) Rus 932.25 +3% 285 143 10 857 0
70 Durban (L) Sou 926.65 +50% 63 79 173 2537 9
71 Bali (S) Ind 903.85 -39% 367 51 67 261 201
72 Hillsborough, NC ( USA 855.05 +30% 245 49 14 569 1668*
73 Prague (M) Cze 775.75* +39% 122 430 7 393 0
74 Sao Paulo (S) Bra 742.00 +16% 65 363 125* 746* 0
75 Bhakti Lounge (Phi USA 710.75*+128% 288* 16 91 293 0
76 Chandigarh (S) Ind 705.25 -52% 202 34 82 905 0
77 Spain BBT (MS) Spa 703.00 +30% 185 145 100 552* 0
78 Recife (MS) Bra 614.85 -16% 0 71 53 1847 556*
79 Tyumen (S) Rus 590.75 -1% 201 38 180 243 0
80 Sing (S) Sin 563.55 +33% 203 16 1 563 3
81 Rome (S) Ita 527.00 +1% 38 0 902 0 0
82 Sofia (MS) Bul 518.25 -65% 190 25 194 65 0
83 Amravati (S) Ind 492.75 +7% 196 8 31 153 99*
84 Ivanovo (S) Rus 481.75 -14% 158 56 174 91 0
85 Zurich (S) Swi 446.75*+158% 44 227* 262* 3 0
86 Milan (M) Ita 440.50 -54% 62 0 633 0 0
87 Lisbon (S) Por 437.50 -2% 12 411 4 2 0
88 Kinshasa (S) Con 437.00 -31% 145 30* 0 468 0
89 Nairobi (S) Ken 431.60 -21% 49 54 33 1052 1
90 Wellington (S) New 398.90 -12% 65 214 15 140 124
91 Kaunas (S) Lit 367.00 -42% 113 16 1 498 0
92 Queretaro (S) Mex 340.00 -18% 20 52 320* 352 0
93 Melbourne (L) Aus 339.50 -34% 139 10 39 128 0
94 Heidelberg (MS) Ger 324.00 -11% 13 106 384 0 0
95 Prabhupada Desh (M Ita 302.50 -57% 61 0 361* 0 0
96 Natal (S) Bra 285.00 +5% 2 91* 15 722 20
97 Zagreb (MS) Cro 283.25 -20% 3 47 349 223 0
98 Leipzig (S) Ger 281.50*+138% 33 39* 353* 0 0
99 Miami (S) USA 251.20 -46% 58 33 1 406 2
100 New Orleans (S) USA 238.00 -60% 10 0 81 710 0
101 Lenasia (S) Sou 225.60 +22% 38* 22* 100* 96 536
102 Villa Vrndavana (L Ita 209.50 -70% 34 0 283 0 0
103 Hartford (MS) USA 206.50 0% 50 42 58 142 0
104 Naval Kunda (S) Spa 199.00 +23% 49 101 0 0 0
105 Mpumalanga (S) Sou 197.75 +89% 0 2 14* 755* 0
106 Kirov (S) Rus 168.75 -63% 28 41 27 233 0
107 Benin (M) Nig 165.75 na 0 2 10 635 0
108 Sacramento/TYM (S) USA 161.00 -49% 59 32 11 22 0
109 Gurabo (PR) (MS) Pue 150.75 -23% 2 6 115 333 0
110 Ljubljana (S) Slo 143.75 -45% 2 13 16 475 0
111 Berkeley (S) USA 129.30 -29% 26 20 39 136 38
112 Vilnius (S) Lit 126.50 -73% 31 36 3 108 0
113 Vancouver (S) Can 122.60 -31% 25 22 57 88 1
114 Brisbane (S) Aus 121.60 -5% 12* 8* 133 10 206
115 Blantyre (MS) Mal 121.00 +25% 13 21 0 296* 0
116 Phoenix(MA) (S) Mau 71.35 -93% 11 11 18 111 16
117 Ubatuba (S) Bra 61.00 +56% 0 0 0 244* 0
118 Campina Grande (S) Bra 57.50 -16% 0 30* 35* 40 0
119 New Vrajadham-Braz Bra 54.25 -88% 0 43 11 23 0
120 Lusaka (MS) Zam 41.85*+127% 6 17* 2 43 11
121 Wiesbaden (S) Ger 40.50 -45% 12 12 9 0 0
122 Sarajevo (S) Bos 40.00 -74% 0 20 25 30 0
123 Vologda (MS) Rus 39.00 -51% 8 4 20 36 0
124 Pretoria (MS) Sou 36.50 -46% 11 0 3 52 0
125 Pietermaritzburg ( Sou 34.75 -39% 5 2 4 83 0
126 Timisoara (S) Rom 34.25 -64% 7 10 0 41 0
127 Cape Town (S) Sou 30.25 -57% 0 3 1 95 30*
128 Mafikeng (S) Sou 29.25 +111% 1* 0 25 59 0
129 Texarkana (S) USA 27.40 +68% 12 0 0 12* 4
130 Sandton (S) Sou 26.10 -86% 1 5* 25 22 11*
131 Santo Domingo (S) Dom 22.80 -70% 7 0 9 14 8
132 Abidjan (S) Ivo 22.75*+282% 1 0 0 83* 0
133 Bhakti Lounge (Tor Can 20.00 -95% 8 1 5 2 0
134 Kostroma (S) Rus 18.00 +36% 0 8 10 20 0
135 Goloka Dhama (S) Ger 11.50 -86% 3 1 9 0 0
136 Arkadelphia (S) USA 10.25 -37% 4 2 0 1 0
137 Port Harcourt (S) Nig 8.25 -57% 0 2 5 15 0
138 Fortaleza (MS) Bra 3.25 -65% 0 2 1 3 0
(%)Change compared (*)New high
to monthly average this year
**** Page 8 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
PRABHUPADA DISCIPLES
October 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Prabhupada Disciples Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 HH Jayapataka Sw May Ind12000.00*+185% 6000* 0 0 0 0
2 Bhrgupati d LA USA 1850.50 +38% 562 436 284 594 0
3 Mohanasini dd New USA 1498.50 -8% 620 26 437 56 0
4 Gaur Sundar d LA USA 868.75 +9% 378 72 57 45 10
5 Nidra dd Den USA 716.00 -31% 254 114 120 136 0
6 Cakri d Dallas Dal USA 326.65*+119% 127* 0 10 247* 59
7 Drumila d New USA 167.50 -62% 0 0 80 510 0
8 Visala d Mia USA 145.00 +1% 27 24* 0 268 0
9 Caitanya Candra Dal USA 110.50 na 14 55 55 0 0
10 Yadavendra d Bri Aus 83.60 -34% 2 2 114 0 206
11 Lalita dd Ber USA 22.30 -66% 4 2 14 18 8
12 Prajapati d Mia USA 4.50 -64% 0 0 0 18 0
13 Nartaka Gopal dd Mia USA 0.70 -95% 0 0 1 0 2
(%)Change compared (*)New record
to monthly average for this year
**** Page 9 ****
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN COUNTRIES (CUMULATIVE)
January thru October, 2015
% M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Country (Temples) Points Change Books Books Books Books Mags
________________________________________________________________________
1 India (32) 2042868.40 -6% 719685 176584 167269 1040506 490954
2 United States (35) 560388.30 +13% 178991 85370 104789 221656 90254
3 Russia, CIS (42) 417240.55 +15% 125272 62765 102445 210297 1348
4 Brazil (19) 95066.25 +19% 3520 70490 7423 54863 1090
5 United Kingdom (3) 85508.00 +44% 24546 6125 53354 14456 0
6 Italy (7) 60306.00 -32% 18699 0 45715 0 486
7 Mexico (7) 56716.75 +33% 6004 8912 28832 85523 0
8 GermanyAustria (9) 45855.40 -18% 16502 5123 15453 4 9
9 Australia (5) 45643.55 +5% 19317 1182 6990 8571 1898
10 Ukraine, CIS (16) 40770.25 +41% 13090 2146 11597 26583 0
(%)Change compared to Jan-Oct 2014
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP TEN TEMPLES (CUMULATIVE)
January thru October, 2015
Points % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Temples (size) (Months) Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Mayapur (L) Ind 686876.75(10) -4%277096 53030 63952 183215 4500
2 Mumbai-Juhu ( Ind 240257.00(10) +22% 99296 11644* 24093 71898 0
3 New Delhi (L) Ind 212834.30(10) -44% 64962 6507 31196 171242 179948
4 Vrindavan (L) Ind 168096.50( 9)* +21% 26631* 59509* 0 221302* 0
5 Los Angeles ( USA 161422.10(10) +14% 46736 26242 53309* 56244 9926
6 Tirupati (L) Ind 144523.75(10) -5% 47083 7100 6832 98895 102920
7 Moscow (L) Rus 123243.00( 8) +85% 44534 15187 19081 37790 0
8 RupanugaVedic USA 120025.15( 9)* +57% 40421* 30002* 4391* 14133* 34524*
9 New Delhi(Pun Ind 111439.05( 9) +17% 37424 1649 3276 91653 62184
10 Pune (L) Ind 70731.55( 8) -33% 28673 1965 2497 29151 21212
(%)Change compared (*)Better than
to Jan-Oct 2014 last year
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TEAM BOOK DISTRIBUTION (CUMULATIVE)
January thru October, 2015
Points % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals (Months) Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Madhusunda Del Ind 41935.75( 2) na 13224 822 5590 35483 30000
2 Kesava Bal New Ind 18368.70( 1) na 4000 0 0 40000 3231
3 Sunder Mad New Ind 17456.25( 8) na 3426 1500 6230 23457 1250
4 Sri Caitan Pun Ind 4758.25( 4) na 2218 0 1 1287 0
5 Vallabh Ca Pun Ind 3872.50( 3)* +16% 1448* 345* 281* 1900* 65*
6 Gopisvar d New Ind 3840.75( 1) -77% 932 288 510 5635 250
7 Vichitra K New Ind 3050.25( 2) -2% 837 200 1090 2525 0
8 Dauji Nita Pun Ind 1960.00( 3) na 980 0 0 0 0
9 Brajvilas Pun Ind 1738.45( 3) +39% 865 1 0 1 34
10 Radheshyam Pun Ind 1241.75( 2) na 473 79 149 569 0
11 Ganesh d Pun Ind 1144.55( 1) na 452 45 89 433 162
12 Prakash d Pun Ind 1116.00( 1) na 530 14 19 130 0
13 Lalit Madh Pun Ind 953.00( 2) na 358 90 78 432 0
14 Krishna Ka Pun Ind 865.50( 2) na 293 54 75 752 0
15 Kanai Thak Pun Ind 800.00( 1) na 400 0 0 0 0
16 Jugalkisho Pun Ind 728.00( 1) na 364 0 0 0 0
17 Deena Naya New Ind 555.50( 1) na 24 6 97 1792 50
18 Sundarvar Pun Ind 514.00( 1) -15% 257 0 0 0 0
(%)Change compared (*)Better than
to Jan-Oct 2014 last year
World Sankirtan Newsletter
TOP 50 INDIVIDUALS (CUMULATIVE)
January thru October, 2015
Points % M-Big Big Medium Small BTGs
Individuals (Months) Change Books Books Books Books Mags
_______________________________________________________________________
1 Radha Krsn Mum Ind 64030.25(10)*+132% 26570* 4079* 6922* 13401* 0
2 Madhusunda New Ind 52078.50( 8) -46% 17106 1924 11605 40560 0
3 HH Jayapat May Ind 45702.00( 9) -19% 22851 0 0 0 0
4 Caitanya C Cen Bra 43952.00( 7)* +65% 115 42311* 2392 860 0
5 Bk Jay Khu LA USA 30194.60(10)*+560% 10963* 2334* 11407* 716* 521*
6 Paramesvar RVC USA 29711.50( 9) -17% 8341 10528* 1257 1482* 15025
7 Tirtha Kri Tir Ind 29398.80(10) +16% 10634 1761* 1780 20468 2507
8 Hemagiri d Mum Ind 29279.50(10) +8% 8813 2785* 6102 23270 0
9 Nandananda Tir Ind 27986.55(10) -9% 10372 1457 1453 19055 1984
10 Keshava Ba New Ind 26464.10( 8) -43% 7170 426 1854 25766 39648*
11 Bhagavat A Mum Ind 25104.75(10) -14% 10101 985* 2137* 11397 0
12 Ananda Kir LA USA 24790.00(10)*+150% 9866* 1799 5262* 2508 10*
13 Keshav Mur New Ind 24622.25( 7) +52% 11180 550 400 6049 0
14 Deva Krsna RVC USA 21652.25( 9)* +12% 10072* 983 0 2101 0
15 Saciputra Mum Ind 20403.50( 6) na 9864 483 221 328 0
16 Bharadwaj May Ind 19597.75( 4) +1% 7573 10 5007 7753 0
17 Brajananda RVC USA 19199.55( 9)* +11% 6677 5124* 29* 1393 3588*
18 Krishna Bh RVC USA 18316.65( 9)* na 6138* 4111* 804* 2903* 8019*
19 Bipin Biha May Ind 17999.50( 9) +140% 6148 4382* 490* 4306* 0
20 Nava Gaura Tir Ind 17801.25( 5) na 6371 1047 875 14109 114
21 Bk Rakesh New Ind 16562.50( 6) -88% 8265 0 15 100 0
22 Bhrgupati LA USA 13899.05(10) -68% 5197 1508 1645* 4601* 243
23 Dasya Prem RVC USA 12918.60( 9)* +37% 4378* 2722 1204 1782 3931*
24 Bk Gopal May Ind 12894.25( 7)*+264% 6175 62* 6 1917* 0
25 Mohanasini New USA 12873.00( 8) 0% 5035 716* 3735* 878* 0
26 Govind Mur Mum Ind 12786.25( 5) +2% 6216 338 10 45 0
27 Advaita Si Ujj Ind 12746.75( 9)* na 4253* 2748* 2326* 1319 0
28 Nityananda Dal USA 12660.00( 9)* na 6330* 0 0 0 0
29 Mahapuran May Ind 12485.00( 5) +184% 4138 1179* 1962 8196 0
30 Bk Nirmal May Ind 11580.25( 8)* na 5418* 72* 465* 1759* 0
31 Udar Gour May Ind 11420.50( 8) +123% 5388 494* 118* 366* 0
32 Kalki d(2 Gai USA 10681.75(10)* +92% 2865* 3130* 2597* 2093* 0
33 Anupam Kri Mos Rus 10644.00( 8) -9% 5098 8 96 1568 0
34 Satyapriya Mum Ind 10413.00( 9)* na 5204* 5 0 0 0
35 Shastra-kr LA USA 10215.50(10) -6% 4951 226 0 350 0
36 Nitai Lila Cat Ita 10132.10( 7) -29% 3726 0 5351 0 46
37 Bk Eric LA USA 10109.25(10)* +42% 2711* 2501* 3848* 591 1145
38 Dharmaraja RVC USA 10087.35(10) na 2745 4037 239 1577 466
39 Nidra dd Den USA 10039.50(10) +1% 3735 1345 1211* 2476* 0
40 Surottam d Ahm Ind 10000.00( 1) na 5000 0 0 0 0
41 Vrajasunda Cat Ita 9985.50( 7) -35% 3723 0 5068 0 55
42 Ghanashyam Syd Aus 9820.00( 7)* na 4291* 306* 1377* 970* 10
43 Gadadhara Cat Ita 9796.90( 7) -20% 3731 0 4659 0 54
44 Neel Kanth New Ind 9640.00(10) +4% 0 0 0 0 96400
45 Visnu d Kie Ukr 9405.75( 5) na 4601 14 48 663 0
46 Bk Siddhar Tir Ind 9257.60(10) -10% 1819 197* 516* 7728 27709
47 Harinama d RVC USA 9251.55( 9)* na 2734* 2508 1000* 1563 3848*
48 Krpa Sindh Sim Ger 9079.00( 9)* +68% 4424* 81 300 0 0
49 Raya Nitai TBB USA 8983.75(10) +6% 2689* 1053* 2777 4657 0
50 Krishna Ca Mum Ind 8862.00( 7)* na 3051* 799* 3404* 1036* 0
(%)Change compared (*)Better than
to Jan-Oct 2014 last year
November 25. ISKCON 50 – S.Prabhupada Daily Meditations.
It was…
→ Dandavats
November 25. ISKCON 50 – S.Prabhupada Daily Meditations.
It was unusual for Prabhupada to be anywhere but at Dr. Mishra’s studio. Prabhupada did a little shopping, but he rarely went out on any other kind of outings. Mostly he went out for walks. Occasionally, he went to the bookstores to see how his books were selling. He did not have a car in the early days, so he took the subway or the bus. When he went out, he didn’t take on the appearance of an ordinary person in his old, checkered suburban coat. For one thing, he always wore his dhoti. He was elderly and Indian, but these were all external. He burned with an inner flame that was visible, even as he sat in the subway. He was always intensely focused on Krishna. His eyes were different than other people’s eyes; they shone with inner vision. He was always a pure devotee of Krishna.
Read the entire article here: http://www.dandavats.com/?p=20490&page=2
One More Time Around
→ Gouranga TV - The Hare Krishna video collection
One More Time Around
ISKCON 50 Meditations: November 25, 2015
→ ISKCON News
When Swamiji Went Out
HG Narottamananda Prabhu / SB 10.89.45
→ Kalachandji's Audio Archive
Without Pretense, and as Best You Can…
→ The Enquirer
“All of you should certainly make his devotional service your true career; devote your actions to him, using all the talents of your thoughts, words and body. If you do this without pretense and as best you can, then his desire-fulfilling lotus-feet will become the source of perfecting your every want and need.”
Spoken by Emperor Pṛthu
to his citizens.
Per Śrīmad Bhāgavatam 4.21.33
Translated by Vraja Kishor
for Part 4 of
Beautiful Tales of the All-Attractive
Parts 1, 2, and 3 of Beautiful Tales of the All Attractive
are available at VrajaKishor.com
Spiritual calculations
→ KKSBlog
(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 09 September 2015, Randburg, South Africa, Youth Group Bhajans)
Srila Prabhupada said that five plus five is ten, two plus two is four, and everything plus Krsna is Vrindavan. So this formula is very brilliant and very simple and if we can just apply this formula by adding Krsna, everything will change. That is all that needs to be done – just add Krsna in any situation.
The holy name is one way to add Krsna but prasadam is another way. Some lectures on your phone and some pictures on the wall are also ways to add Krsna. There are many varieties of things which we can do to add Krsna but if we add Krsna then everything automatically starts to work because it becomes the spiritual world and then all maya will disappear.
Actually, Srila Prabhupada described how one corner of the spiritual world becomes covered like how a corner of the sky becomes covered by a cloud. So there is this corner of the spiritual sky which is covered and known as the material world. In the material world, people think that they have fallen to material life whereas the truth of the matter is they are still in the spiritual world therefore it does not take much. One simply has to come to the point of really getting rid of the cloud and to the point that you really believe it. I know you have all heard it before. “We are really in spiritual world.” Everyone goes, “Yeah, yeah, yeah.” This is right but we do not believe it but hopefully, one day we may believe it!
Damodarastakam in Melbourne
→ Ramai Swami
“Any person who performs bathing in the month of Kartika, remaining awake, offering lamps, giving charity or planting and transplanting Tulasi, he achieves the same form as Lord Sri Visnu.”
In Melbourne temple, both morning and night, many devotees and guests come to attend arati , offer lamps and sing Damodarastakam prayers during the month of Kartika.
New Vrindaban Recipes
→ New Vrindaban
New Vrindaban Recipes: Community, Camaraderie and Cookies
Dharmakala Cooking Biscuits in RVC Temple devotee kitchen – 1984.
By Madhava Smullen
Dharmakala Dasi’s destiny seemed set from the start – she grew up with the smell of fresh baked bread and cookies lingering throughout her home.
“My parents had eight kids, so we didn’t really go out to eat – my mother just cooked constantly to feed us all,” she says. “So being around it all the time, I started cooking myself when I was a little kid. I baked my first brownies at the age of seven.”
But with all that good old-fashioned home cooking, Dharmakala never tasted anything quite like the Sunday Feast at the Hare Krishna temple in Ocean City, Maryland, in 1972 – “It was totally out of this world,” she says. And it was this that would lead to her cooking for Lord Krishna, and becoming synonymous with New Vrindaban’s celebrated history of prasadam baking.
First, though, she joined ISKCON in Ocean City, then moved to New York, where she was initiated by Srila Prabhupada in 1973. There, she began baking “Prabhupada cookies” and offered her first cake to the Lord, a huge multi-layered whipped mango affair for Radhastami.
Srila Prabhupada outside the Henry Street Temple 1973 – Dharmakala offering obeisances on left.
In July 1974, Dharmakala decided to move to New Vrindaban, West Virginia, where she received second initiation the following year, and thereafter began cooking daily for the Deities for approximately the next fifteen years.
New Vrindaban, a remote, austere rural community, couldn’t have been more different from New York City. Dharmakala prepared the legendary 4pm offering of fried curd, milk sweets, cookies, cheesecake, and more using a wood oven and wood stove that had to be constantly stoked.
“There wasn’t anything electric at all at the Bahulaban kitchen – everything had to be done by hand,” she says. “The curd used in the cheesecake had to be kneaded out by hand to smooth it, as there were no blenders.”
The upside to the simple life was that all the dairy products were made from the milk of the sacred village’s protected cows, which was thick with cream. It was this cream that was separated from the milk and used in Dharmakala’s much coveted maha-prasadam condensed milk, or kheer, which was often served with peaches, strawberries and bananas.
“The feasts and Deity offerings in Bahulaban back then were so outrageously opulent you wouldn’t believe it,” Dharmakala says.
Until 1989 – during which the kitchen moved from Bahulaban to Radha Vrindabanchandra’s current temple – Dharmakala cooked full-time for the Deities and devotees.
As well as the 4pm offering, she also made popcorn, cereal, breadsticks and other snacks for the devotees in the afternoon, and cooked chapatis over gas flames on a large griddle for lunch.
New Vrindaban’s 6th Annual Janmastami celebration. Group photo taken at the Bahulaban Barn in 1975 (Dharmakala pictured).
“Together our team would do a thousand chapatis a day,” she says.
But over the years, Dharmakala became most famous for her baking.
In the mornings, she often baked bread for the devotees. On Sunday feasts and festivals, she would make orange cake, date nut bars, or apple and rhubarb strawberry crisp for 800 people, sending huge trays to locations all over the community.
And nothing was ever half-baked – if you’ll pardon the pun – with Dharmakala.
“Whatever I did, I would do to the best of my ability,” she says. “For instance, instead of just making normal sugar cookies for the 4pm offering, I’d make coconut walnut squares or sandwich cookies. That would be two Prabhupada cookies with a filling of fresh strawberry jam and an icing glaze on top.”
Dharmakala worked very hard, often spending eleven-hour days from 10am to nearly 9pm in the kitchen, with no days off.
“I remember being eight-and-a-half months pregnant with my daughter Dinataruni one Thanksgiving, and baking as many pumpkins as I could for pumpkin pie well into the night, because we didn’t have any canned pumpkin,” she says. “The next morning, I went in, made the crusts, and finished up ten trays of pie with fresh whipped cream on top. All while I was about to pop!”
But for Dharmakala, the memories are good, full of the kind of loving exchanges between godbrothers and godsisters that Srila Pabhupada formed ISKCON to facilitate.
Prabhupada 1973 NY Henry Street Temple – Dharmakala lower right corner.
“Kuladri’s wife Kutila taught me how to make milk sweets; Prabhupada’s servant Nanda Kumar oversaw the kitchen; and Hari-Kirtana, Vraja Kumari and Gita from Canada were my chapati crew,” she says. “Everybody was working together, and it was such good teamwork and camaraderie. It was devotional service for us, and we just wanted to make a nice lunch for Krishna. You just had that intention that it was going to turn out great, and it always did.”
After 1989, Dharmakala stopped serving full-time at the temple kitchen, but continued to make cakes for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations held in New Vrindaban, a service she offers to this day.
“I make chocolate, carob, and vanilla cakes, carrot cakes, and more,” she says. “Whatever people want. I always use organic, non-GMO ingredients. I use organic flour, demerrara sugar or Sucanat, and for vegan cakes, I make my own soymilk from organic soybeans.”
In 1995, Dharmakala started her own company, “World’s Best Cookie,” selling to health food stores and coffee shops along the East Coast. Her products include raisin, chocolate-chip, carob-chip, and pumpkin-spice oatmeal cookies, along with wheat-free raisin and chocholate-chip options, and an energy cookie.
Dharmakala Baking Worlds Best Cookies.
So far, she has made 500,000 of these, all by hand, in pink ovens decorated with hearts and the inscription “Baked with the intention of love,” at her bakery on the ECO-V farm. What’s more, each and every cookie is offered to Srila Prabhupada, whose murti oversees the bakery from his vyasasana. He reminds Dharmakala of a special loving moment.
“I remember that when Prabhupada visited New Vrindaban in 1976, he was giving out cookies in the tiny Bahulaban temple room,” she says. “It was absolutely packed with devotees, and I was eight months pregnant with my son Suddha Sattva and afraid that I’d get pushed or shoved. So I hid in a corner to the side of his vyasasana, and just held out my hand, and he gave me a cookie. I put it in my beadbag, then held out my hand again, and he gave me another cookie. And again, and again. I left with six cookies!”
Today, after decades of service cooking for the Lord and his devotees and raising her five children, Dharmakala is still living in New Vrindaban. And just as it did back in the ‘70s, it’s the camaraderie and devotee association that keeps her there.
“My friends are the reason,” she says. “We all built this place together. So we’re like family.”
And when asked what advice she has for the next wave of New Vrindaban residents, Dharmakala suggests trying out the simplicity that made those early days special.
“Turn off the electric, get away from your computer, and see what you can manifest,” she says. “And, in the kitchen as well as in life, work from your heart!”
Dharmakala’s Coconut Walnut Squares
“I love this recipe because it’s super rich and opulent. It has been a favorite at New Vrindaban for years, since I used to make it in the Deity kitchen for the pleasure of Sri Sri Radha Vrindabanchandra.”
Makes 18 squares.
Ingredients:
1st layer:
1 cup of butter (melted)
½ cup of brown sugar
2 ½ cups of flour
2nd layer:
1/3 cup of yogurt
2 cups of brown sugar
¼ cup of flour
1 cup of shredded coconut
1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
½ cup of chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
1 teaspoon of grated lemon rind
½ teaspoon of salt
Glaze (optional):
1 ½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons of butter (melted)
3 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Directions:
To make the first layer, mix the ingredients together and press firmly into a 9 x 12 inch baking tray.
Before putting the first layer into the pan, make sure the inside of the tray is lightly greased with butter (or vegetable oil). Next, sprinkle a small amount of flour over the butter (or use parchment paper). This will help minimize sticking.
Bake the first layer for approximately 10 minutes at 400 F. Remove from the oven and and cool slightly.
To make the second layer, mix all ingredients and spread over top of the first layer.
Bake at 350 F for around 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Remove tray from oven and allow to cool.
For the glaze, combine ingredients together, stir until smooth and drizzle over the entire tray.
Finally, cut into 18 good-sized squares, offer and serve.