Planet ISKCON

Hare Krishna!

Please accept our humble obeisances!

All glories to Srila Prabhupada!

All glories to Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga!

Date: 13th Mar 2022

Day: Sunday

Time: 11 am to 12 noon

Topic: "Chitra Kavitvani"

"Picture verses, or Amazing verses" - The Citra-Kavitvani is a collection of 12 amazing verses written by Srila Rupa Goswami. These verses, full of transcendental tongue twisters and playful picture poetry, highlight Rupa Goswami’s genius as a foremost poet among the Gaudiya Vaisnavas.

Presenter: H.G. Dravida das

Link to join the class:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9150790510?pwd=Wk5GYXVRMkJmdk84MzZJRXBKYUgwUT09

H.G. Dravida das

A disciple of Srila Prabhupada, Dravida dasa joined ISKCON in 1973 and has served as an editor and proof-reader for the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust for over 45 years. From 1983 to 1989 he was part of the team that completed Srila Prabhupada’s magnum opus: a commentated English translation of India's jewel of Vedic wisdom, the 18,000-verse Srimad Bhagavatam (Bhagavata Purana). He also helped produce the revised editions of Srila Prabhupada’s Isopanisad, Krsna Book, Caitanya-Caritamrta, and Teachings of Lord Caitanya, and he is part of the team that produces Srila Prabhupada’s Vyasa-puja book every year. In addition to his editing work, he teaches Bhakti Yoga classes at ISKCON’s San Diego temple and other centres in North America.

Throughout all this immersion in transcendental literature, Dravida Dasa developed a love of the Sanskrit language, and especially the elaborate verses of the Bhagavatam and other works of bhakti literature.

His devotion and expertise in chanting form a marvellous combination. He has a been Brahmacari throughout his devotional career.

ISKCON Scarborough

3500 McNicoll Avenue, Unit #3,

Scarborough, Ontario,

Canada, M1V4C7

Website: www.iskconscarborough.org

Email:

iskconscarborough@hotmail.com

scarboroughiskcon@gmail.com

For Gaura Purnima 2022 the TOVP Communications Department is very pleased to release the flipbook version of the 2004 publication, ‘Eighteen Days – Sri Panca Tattva’s Mayapur Lila’, by Braja Sevaki Dasi and Rasarani Priya Dasi.

This book continues where ‘The Advent of Panca Tattva’ by Bhagavatamrta Das and Ganga Das leaves off, describing in detail and with a beautiful photo gallery, the full installation ceremony of the Panca Tattva. As explained by Braja Sevaki in a previous article:

And as their book ends upon the arrival in Mayapur on February 6, 2004 of the truck bearing its precious cargo, a second book, “18 Days: Sri Panca-tattva’s Mayapur-lila” takes up the story. From the moment the truck arrived, slowly crawling along Bhaktisiddhanta Road to the shouts and chanting and dancing and sheer joy of every resident of this district, eighteen days passed before the great maha-abhiseka “first darshan” of these golden forms of mercy and bliss. Braja Sevaki Dasi and Rasarani Priya Dasi authored this similarly historical account of Sri Panca-tattva’s arrival in Mayapur, and the wild, unbelievable, and ecstatic pastimes that unfolded before “the big day,” when tens of thousands filled the temple halls, spilled out into the gardens, and watched worldwide as the Golden Avatar and His associates finally appeared before us in all Their glorious splendor…

We hope our readers will take advantage of this wonderful and inspiring book to relive the ecstatic moments of the Panca Tattva’s arrival and eighteen days leading to Their installation on February 24, 2004.

Read, share and download Eighteen Days – Sri Panca Tattva’s Mayapur Lila.

We also humbly request devotees to consider Gaura Purnima time as an opportunity to support the ongoing construction of the TOVP, the new home of the Pancha Tattva. There is a two year marathon now to open the TOVP in 2024 and we request your help to win this final lap of the race to relocate our beloved Mayapur Deities to Their new home.

To make a donation go to the Seva Opportunities page to see the various sponsorship options available.

 

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Ramsden Park, Toronto

Beeline It

During this whole pandemic period I have actually enjoyed the Gita Chats very much. While the entire stretch of virus is slowly coming to a close, we would be wise to preserve some of the items that shed light in this challenged time. The streamlining that has been so prevalent throughout the two-year period will hopefully be here to stay. Arguably, some may view Zoom as some form of gloom, because of its more negative side-effects like keeping us from outdoor freshness, still the benefits can’t be denied. How many aging folks who are less mobile in life-style feel a kind of connection with loved ones via technology? I don’t think it’s wholesome to totally demonize such a communicational utility.

Naturally there has to be some discipline and an employment of balance in the use of tools and people. That is favourable. Be moderate in all things.

After my walk through a decent walking temperature, at one degree Celsius, through Ramsden, then Yonge, Bloor and Dupont, I sat down for our Owen Sound Tuesday night chat group to go over what I call the “fruit and flower” verses of the Gita which begins with Chapter 2, texts 42 and 43. Krishna here addresses the desire for some to take to the karma kanda section of the Vedas. You might say that this is the area of approved sense enjoyment, while at the same time it is discouraged.

The general principle is to indulge in fruit, flowers and heavenly delights, but if you want to avoid entanglement then take the beeline approach to the Lord. This direct, rapid approach is referred to as Krishna bhakti.

May the Source be with you!

4 km

 

Yorkville, Toronto

A Call Came

A call came in on my personal phone. It was one of those recordings with a male voice representing social security and how I am suspicious of etc. You know, it’s one of those scam calls where they try to pry money out of you after due interrogation. I waited for the recording to complete after his final line, “For clarification dial 1.” So, I dialled 1 to offer my clarification.

A live voice answered, “Yes, can I help you?”

I gave my piece. “You people should be ashamed of yourselves. Do you realize what kind of karma…” She cut in saying, “No, we are not ashamed,” and hung up.

Such was my contribution to truth for the day. It was actually a day of truth in many ways. One such truth was the appearance of lightly sauteed asparagus at lunch time. Another was a walk, of course, while fingering on my chanting beads through the streets of Yorkville.

Here’s yet another “truth” moment. It happened more than once today, by phone and text. “I heard you have COVID.”

“You have got the first two letters right – CO and the last letter D is also correct. Remove the V and I and replace with an L. That spells COLD. That’s what we used to call it. The one syllable word also sounds better. I’m actually fine, though I had, for a short while, a runny nose.

I earned three vaccinations. Three jabs, indeed, and I caught a minor cold. That is my relative truth for the day.

May the Source be with you!

4 km

 

City Hall, Toronto

The Wind Sent Me

There are three ladies from the city that have their birthday today- Saci, Sadhana and my sister, Connie. At the least I offered to each of them a version of “Happy Birthday to you….” It is a cute “Hare Krishna to you.”

Today was bright from that perspective but also in another way. I had come down with a little cold but I came up with an idea. I needed some vitamin D. I needed some sun and it was there. Along with its presence was a warm wind from the west, hurling things in the air. Clouds went one way. A plastic bag went up in a spin and even a covid mask spun by.

The scene was beckoning me to get out and about. I hit Yonge Street and kept going south till Queen St. From there I went west, then north on Beverly, past the first Hare Krishna temple in Toronto. I just kept going till I struck ten kilometres.

For a break I planted myself on a park bench at Grange Park near the Henry Moore sculpture. There I met Hrithik, a free-spirited young photographer who declared everything to be “beautiful.” He surely was a bit on the wild side. He even acted as though the wind swept him up and into flight.

He joined me walking as he was enroute to a Ukraine Rally at St. Claire. The wind was with us too. It was interesting to see a line of garbage bins thrown across George St. by the wind. Traffic made its way around the almost perfect barricade. We saw our first robin for the year; a sure sign of spring. It was a great walk.

May the source be with you!

10km

 

For Gaura Purnima, 2022 the TOVP Communications Department is pleased to present to the worldwide ISKCON community the original documentary video of the installation of the Pancha Tattva in 2004.

Produced by the Veda Foundation under the direction of His Holiness Bhakti Charu Maharaja, this video documents the arrival and installation of Pancha Tattva in the Caitanya Chandrodaya Mandir in great detail. The event is as powerful and inspiring to watch now as it was in 2004, and we hope all devotees will enjoy the transcendental mood of devotion and love expressed in this presentation.

We also humbly request devotees to consider Gaura Purnima time as an opportunity to support the ongoing construction of the TOVP, the new home of the Pancha Tattva. There is a two year marathon now to open the TOVP in 2024 and we request your help to win this final lap of the race to relocate our beloved Mayapur Deities to Their new home.

To make a donation go to the Seva Opportunities page to see the various sponsorship options available.

 

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Visit: www.tovp.org
Support: https://tovp.org/donate/
Email: tovpinfo@gmail.com
Follow: www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
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Hare Krishna!

Please accept our humble obeisances!

All glories to Srila Prabhupada!

All glories to Sri Guru and Sri Gauranga!

Gaura Purnima Celebrations: All are welcome to visit the temple -COVID protocols will be followed:

March 17th 2022(Thursday): The temple will be open during the following hours:

Please note devotees fast until moonrise on Thursday

5 am to 9 am: Mangala Arti, Tulasi Puja, Guru Puja, Chanting, Class, Main Arti

6 pm to 9 pm: Abhishek on Gaura-NItai Deities,  Kirtan, Class, Main Arti and a vegetarian feast

Temple opening:

From Mar 20th, 2022 (Sunday), the temple will be opening the doors every Sunday from 10.30 am onwards until 1 pm. The regular programs like in-person classes will start from Mar 20th 2022 onwards.

Devotees are required to follow all the mandatory COVID protocols when they visit the temple.

We will be constantly monitoring the evolving COVID protocols and make changes as required.

ISKCON Scarborough

3500 McNicoll Avenue, Unit #3,

Scarborough, Ontario,

Canada, M1V4C7

Website: www.iskconscarborough.org

Email:

iskconscarborough@hotmail.com

scarboroughiskcon@gmail.com

Welcome to the Hare Krishna Centre, a haven for spiritual seekers located 30 minutes drive from the Auckland CBD, New Zealand. Our temple is a sacred space for contemplation and exploration, designed to provide a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual nourishment.

At our centre, we offer a range of activities and events to cater to your spiritual needs, including meditation sessions, sacred music and dance performances, and vegetarian food options. Our centre also hosts a variety of festivals, courses, and worship services throughout the year.

Best of all, our facilities are open to the public free of charge, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you're a long-time devotee or simply curious about exploring your spirituality, we invite you to visit us and experience the peace and serenity of our temple.

Travel Directions

Our campus is located approximately 30 minutes drive from the Auckland CBD in Kumeū. The temple and school are both located at the rear of our property - just following the signs.

Address

1229 Coatesville Riverhead Highway, Kumeū 0892

• Google Maps
• Apple Maps

Public Transport

The closest bus stop is Stop 4950 - Grove Way, It is a 15 minute walk along state highway 28 to our campus entrance. Please note, this walk is not recommended for children.

• Auckland Transport

Other considerations

243 Ave. Rd., Toronto

Kirtan Helps

I’m not one to follow the news very much because of the depressing nature of most reporting. It is, however, essentially wrong to be naïve or ignorant of the world’s goings on. For myself, I like to have current events distilled through a reliable person or persons who then, in turn, report to me. To a large extent, that’s how I receive info.

It is obvious that one of the current major crises in the world is the attack on Ukraine. It’s hard to comprehend the madness and destruction inflicted on innocent children, women, the elderly, and all sectors of a society that just simply strives to live a decent life. Weren’t the last two wars of the 20^th century enough to haunt us for centuries to come? Apparently not. Hatred prevails.

In my location of residence, a group of us arranged a kirtan dedication to the people of Ukraine and Russia who are subjected to this great misfortune. The kirtan, held in the temple room and led by those of voice and heart; Vrkodhar, Ajamila, Annapurna and more, projected the sentiments of help and despair. It was indeed a powerful display of love – one we hadn’t experienced during the two covid years, in terms of volume and numbers of people. The drummers were keeping the beat, tambourine and kartals maintained a beautiful rhythm, enthusing this evening’s event. The synergy was incredible. A call for urgency and solidarity was what resonated in the room.

Hope was felt. And that is what I love to report, truthfully, without much detail.

May the Source be with you!

 

243 Ave. Rd., Toronto

Pingala, the Prostitute

What does prostitution have to do with consciousness of Krishna? Is there any compatibility here? We hear that prostitution is the world’s oldest profession and that this vocation was around in Krishna’s time. Society women in His time felt He was a heart-throb. They would go out on their balconies to greet Him with flowers as He entered the city. Does a Krishna Conscious culture endorse this interesting profession?

The story of Pingala, from Canto 11 of the Bhagavatam, is very interesting. She had lots of clients, but one day practically no one showed up. Hours passed by and there was a void. There were no appointments for the day. She grew fatigued. Thoughts passed through her mind as to what providence had in store for her. Why this sudden void?

It became an incredible time for introspection. Perhaps change or adjustment was her destiny. And as we can imagine she just might have got a little tired of her work. Perhaps the lustre of it all was starting to wane. “Transformational” might be the perfect word to describe her situation. Things were stirring up inside. Being raised in a culture around her that was largely spiritually infused, she began to consider the other options. “I’ve only seen men one way, as objects. Perhaps I could honour the Supreme Male, the Absolute “Mr. Right.” I could love Him in the same way that Laksmi, the goddess, honours Him.”

Pingala’s contemplation led her to an altogether different approach. She became happy.

May the Source be with you!

 

Brampton, Ontario

Rich in Food

No walking today. Eating? Yes! Today I was invited by a Punjabi family for lunch. Ragni and Rajarsi are a couple who have been with our congregation since the ’80s. Feeling generous, the two had me over, along with bhajan singer, Ajamila, and two other musicians from the yoga circuit, who, within the realm of their experience, have had their share of Vedic gourmet menus. Subuddhi, an excellent friend for years, also was part of our team.

On the menu was paratha, veggies wrapped in flat bread, baked peppery potatoes, chana (chick peas) in sauce, chow mien, even salad with olives, brinjal, a dark eggplant prep, the list goes on. We were treated like kings and queens. The meal, delicious and nutritious as it was, occupied our tummies leaving no space for the rest of the day.

Now, our hosts are staunch bhaktifollowers, hence all items were prasadam, blessed food. We the guests wouldn’t have it any other way. In other words, all endeavours must have that connection with Krishna. That is the bhakti conviction.

Which reminds me, our actual desert was a few rounds of the maha-mantra. Sacred sound is the perfect exposure to topping off this culinary experience. What made the singing more divine is the dedication of the mantra to our hard-pressed devotees in Ukraine. Life is not good there at the moment. People from all over the world are offering moral and financial support.

Help is required.

May the Source be with you!

 

Deer Park, Toronto

Walking Deer Park

I set out on my own tonight. My two usual walking comrades needed early rest. No regrets. Snow was falling, coming down nice.

“Look at this, Pariksit,” I said holding up my camera phone to show him what he’s missing in Vrindavan, India; where likely snow has never hit. I was just descending the exterior stairs and finishing my Zoom call with a group of Umbrella Mountain artists, a hub that meets every Wednesday night. The discussion was good. Pariksit was wowed by the wintry image I sent before leaving the Zoom and commencing the walk.

I headed north on Avenue Road, towards St. Clair in an area called Deer Park. There are no more deer here, just more and more high rises. After the deer left, people like Glen Gould moved in.

Who is he? A piano virtuoso, world renowned in the last century. His fingers would ripple over the keyboard with the greatest of ease. His playing was phenomenal. Gifted by God.

I’m sure there were some great people living in this district when the deer ran wild. Indigenous goodness people roamed here. To a large extent they depended on the venison for food.

As I trekked along up to St. Clair and east until Yonge, I thought about my good fortune to be in a place (the temple ashram nearby) where there’s always good plant-based food. I thought of the Ukrainian and Russian people who don’t have it so good. Would I be willing to trade their condition for mine? I hear they are relatively happy, having each other and keeping strong in consciousness. It’s a mixed blessing perhaps.

May the Source be with you!

4 km

 

Rosedale, Toronto

The Card

At Robert Stanfield Airport Halifax, I was sitting at Gate 14 waiting for my flight and chatting with Sameer who is from the Ismaili community. He takes a prime interest in education and is involved in the Waldorf school system. Anyway, we were chatting and an excited young woman came towards us. Sameer and I were both masked and so was she. In an energetic tone of voice, she spoke. “Excuse me, but are you the Walking Monk?”

“I’m a sitting one for the moment, but yes. I am the one who also walks,” I said. The confirmation excited her even more.

“I follow you (virtually) all the time.” In certain terms I expressed that I hope the following inspires and she confirmed that indeed it does. As usual in such cases I offer a person a mantracard hoping they will take full advantage of reciting the mantra. which has some kind of healing and magical effect on the taker.

I had offered one to Sameer earlier on as a way to leave my contact info, which is on the flip side. There you have an image of myself walking a mystical trail in Mauritius, next to a mango tree infested by fruit bats. In general, I find the cards are effective.

For the evening, I went for a walk, through Rosedale. Of course, the big thing on my mind is the disturbing political dynamic in Ukraine. I spoke with Achuta Priya, our leader in Ukraine. The curfew is on. Citizens are given arms. Guns shots are heard in the atmosphere. “It’s going to be a mess.”

May the Source be with you!

3 km

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Prayers for Those in Ukraine

To the staunch devotees in Ukraine

Great bearers of surprise and pain

We offer humble prayers to you

May the hardship you now go through

Be short-lived and strengthen

Your conviction while serving to lengthen

The need to bond in Krishna’s love

Which the world is short of

We all attest to human misunderstanding

Which requires a major disbanding

As we are spirits and not the flesh

May we all be given the chance to refresh

There’s much power in divine song

Which helps overcome what goes wrong

We are with you praying for protection

And offer our support in His affection

            -Composed by Bhaktimarga Swami, The Walking Monk©

May the Source be with you!

4 km

 

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Sunday Funday

Ryan and Daniel were kind to drive me around. Ryan brought me to the hospital once again to see Shyamesvari, a cancer patient, and her back-up partner, Savyasacin. Daniel took me to the seniors at Ramsgate to see retired professor Shankar. Both visits went well.

Angiras then brought me to the dance studio (not to dance, but yes in our own way) where our bhakti group meets weekly. Iskcon has a lively bunch at this location. Young families with some elders. I missed Corey, the unicyclist, but he’s been coming. I was also hoping to see Brian Crawford, who works for the city in the Child Protection department. Savitri is a sweet elderly Dutch lady, 76, who’s in hiding until Covid diminishes. Yogendra, a local school teacher, and family came. He plays a mean mrdanga drum.

There is a very positive presence of Indian families, all fairly new to the city. They want to hear and learn. What was unique about today’s presentation, based on the Gita’s 9.15, was having our Cleveland, Ohio, crew present on Zoom. The verse, along with its two previous verses, outlines the qualities of a topmost yogi or bhakta. It is implied that one is very dedicated, but how can this possibly be achieved? How will spotless purity become a reality for us neophytes?

The answer is in the texts themselves, especially in 13 and 14. Items, such as the points made, when applied can lead to success. 1) avoid delusion, 2) take shelter of divine energy, 3) keep busy in devotion, 4) praising the Supreme, 5) demonstrate conviction, and 6) taking a humble position.

By the way, the Halifax group is not afraid to dance. Dancing is not listed in the six, but it still counts.

May the Source be with you!

 

The temple is at every step a wonderful spiritual experience, from its ornate altar, to its finely crafted doors, large oil paintings, and wonderful Orissan stained-glass windows.

Presiding Deities

Śrī Śrī Rādhā Giridhari

Śrī Gaura-Nitāi

Śrī Jagannātha, Baladeva and Subhadrā-devī

Amalaki-vrata Ekadasi is celebrated in Krishna Paksha (Waxing Phase) in the Phalgun month (February–March). ‘Amalaki’ or ‘Amla’ is the Indian gooseberry, and the tree is celebrated on this day. It is believed that Lord Vishnu resides in this tree, and this occasion also marks the beginning of Holi — Indian festival of colors.

This is also the final Ekadasi before Gaura Purnuma, 2022 (March 18 in India/March 17 in North America). This is an auspicious time to contribute financially towards the TOVP Marathon to open the TOVP in 2024. There are many, many different types of sponsorships available and most are pledges which can be paid over several months. Visit the Seva Opportunities page for more information.

  NOTE: Amalaki-vrata Ekadasi is observed on March 13 worldwide. Please refer to your local calendar through www.gopal.home.sk/gcal.

  View, download and share the TOVP 2022 Calendar​.

 

The Glories of Amalaki-vrata Ekadasi

From the Brahmanda Purana

This Ekadasi is described in the Brahmanda Purana in a conversation between King Mandhata and the great sage Vasistha.

King Mandhata once said to Vasishtha Muni, “O great sage, kindly be merciful to me and tell me of a holy fast that will benefit me eternally.”

Vasishtha Muni replied. “O king, kindly listen as I describe the best of all fast days, Amalaki Ekadasi. He who faithfully observes a fast on this Ekadasi obtains enormous wealth, gets free of the effects of all kinds of sins, and attains liberation. Fasting on this Ekadasi is more purifying than donating one thousand cows in charity to a pure brahmana. So please hear me attentively as I tell you the story of a hunter who, though daily engaged in killing innocent animals for his living, achieved liberation by observing a fast on Amalaki Ekadasi following the prescribed rules and regulations of worship.

The Kingdom of Vaidisha

“There was once a kingdom named Vaidisha, where all the brahmanas, kshatriyas, vaishyas, and shudras were equally endowed with Vedic knowledge, great bodily strength, and fine intelligence. Oh lion among kings, the whole kingdom was full of Vedic sounds, not a single person was atheistic, and no one sinned. The ruler of this kingdom was King Pashabinduka, a member of the dynasty of Soma, the moon. He was also known as Chitraratha and was very religious and truthful. It is said that King Chitraratha had the strength of ten thousand elephants and that he was very wealthy and knew the six branches of Vedic wisdom perfectly.

“During the reign of Maharaja Chitraratha, not a single person in his kingdom attempted to practice another’s dharma (duty); so perfectly engaged in their own dharmas were all the brahmanas, kshatriyas, vaisyas, and sudras. Neither miser nor pauper was to be seen throughout the land, never was there ever a drought or flood. Indeed, the kingdom was free of disease, and everyone enjoyed good health. The people rendered loving devotional service to the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Vishnu, as did the king, who also rendered special service to Lord Shiva. Moreover, twice a month everyone fasted on Ekadasi. In this way, O best of kings, the citizens of Vaidisha lived many long years in great happiness and prosperity. Giving up all varieties of materialistic religion, they completely dedicated themselves to the loving service of the Supreme Lord, Hari.

Observing Amalaki Ekadasi

“Once, in the month of Phalguna (February – March), the holy fast of Amalakii Ekadasi arrived, conjoined with Dvadasi. King Chitraratha realised that this particular fast would bestow especially great benefit, and thus he and all the citizens of Vaidisha observed this sacred Ekadasi very strictly, carefully following all the rules and regulations.

“After bathing in the river, the king and all his subjects went to the temple of Lord Vishnu, where an Amalaki tree grew. First the king and his leading sages offered the tree a pot filled with water, as well as a fine canopy, shoes, gold, diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, and aromatic incense. Then they worshiped Lord Parashurama with these prayers: ‘Oh Lord Parashurama, Oh son of Renuka, Oh all-pleasing one, Oh liberator of the worlds, kindly come beneath this holy Amalaki tree and accept our humble obeisances.’ Then they prayed to the Amalaki tree: ‘Oh Amalaki, Oh offspring of Lord Brahma, you can destroy all kinds of sinful reactions. Please accept our respectful obeisances and these humble gifts. O Amalaki, you are actually the form of Brahman, and you were once worshiped by Lord Ramachandra Himself. Whoever circumambulates you is therefore immediately freed of all his sins.’

“After offering these excellent prayers, King Chitraratha and his subjects remained awake throughout the night, praying and worshiping according to the regulations governing a sacred Ekadasi fast. It was during this auspicious time of fasting and prayer that a very irreligious man approached the assembly, a man who maintained himself and his family by killing animals. Burdened with both fatigue and sin, the hunter saw the king and the citizens of Vaidisha observing Amalaki Ekadasi by performing an all-night vigil, fasting, and worshiping Lord Vishnu in the beautiful forest setting, which was brilliantly illuminated by many lamps. The hunter hid nearby, wondering what this extraordinary sight before him was.

The Fortunate Hunter

“‘What is going on here?’ he thought. What he saw in that lovely forest beneath the holy Amalaki tree was the Deity of Lord Damodara being worshiped upon the Asana of a waterpot and he heard the devotees singing sacred songs describing Lord Krishna’s transcendental forms and pastimes. Despite himself, that staunchly irreligious killer of innocent birds and animals spent the entire night in great amazement as he watched the Ekadasi celebration and listened to the glorification of the Lord.

“Soon after sunrise, the king and his royal retinue – including the court sages and all the citizens – completed their observance of Ekadasi and returned to the city of Vaidisha. The hunter returned to his hut and happily ate his meal. In due time the hunter died, but the merit he had gained by fasting on Amalaki Ekadasi and hearing the glorification of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, as well as by being forced to stay awake all night, made him eligible to be reborn as a great king endowed with many chariots, elephants, horses, and soldiers. His name was Vasuratha, the son of King Viduratha, and he ruled over the kingdom of Jayanti.

King Vasuratha

“King Vasuratha was strong and fearless, as effulgent as the Sun, and as handsome as the Moon. In strength he was like Sri Vishnu, and in forgiveness like the Earth itself. Very charitable and every truthful, King Vasuratha always rendered loving devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Sri Vishnu. He therefore became very well versed in Vedic knowledge. Always active in the affairs of state, he enjoyed taking excellent care of his subjects, as though they were his own children. He disliked pride in anyone and would smash it when he saw it. He performed many kinds of sacrifices, and he always made certain that the needy in his kingdom received enough charity.

“One day, while hunting in the jungle, King Vasuratha strayed from the footpath and lost his way. Wandering for some time and eventually growing weary, he paused beneath a tree and, using his arms as a pillow, fell asleep. As he slept, some barbarian tribesmen came upon him and, remembering their long-standing enmity toward the king, began discussing among themselves various ways to kill him. ‘It is because he killed our fathers, mothers, brothers-in-law, grandsons, nephews, and uncles that we are forced to aimlessly wander like so many madmen in the forest.’

The Great Rescue

“So saying, they prepared to kill King Vasuratha with various weapons, including spears, swords, arrows, and mystic ropes. But none of these deadly weapons could even touch the sleeping king, and soon the uncivilized, dog-eating tribesmen grew frightened. Their fear sapped their strength, and before long they lost what little intelligence they had and became almost unconscious with bewilderment and weakness. Suddenly a beautiful woman appeared from the king’s body, startling the aborigines. Decorated with many ornaments, emitting a wonderful fragrance, wearing an excellent garland around her neck, her eyebrows drawn in a mood of fierce anger, and her fiery red eyes ablaze, she looked like death personified. With her blazing chakra discus she quickly killed all the tribal hunters, who had tried to slay the sleeping king.

“Just then the king awoke, and seeing all the dead tribesmen lying around him, he was astonished. He wondered, ‘These are all great enemies of mine! Who has slain them so violently? Who is my great benefactor?’ At that very moment he heard a voice from the sky: ‘You asked who helped you. Well, who is that person who alone can help anyone in distress? He is none other than Sri Keshava, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, He who saves all who take shelter of Him without any selfish motive.’

“Upon hearing these words, King Vasuratha became over-whelmed with love for the Personality of Godhead Sri Keshava (Krishna). He returned to his capital city and ruled there like a second Lord Indra (king of the heavenly regions), without any obstacles at all.

Conclusion

“Therefore, Oh King Mandhata”, the venerable Vasishtha Muni concluded, “anyone who observes this holy Amalaki Ekadasi will undoubtedly attain the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu, so great is the religious merit earned from the observance of this most sacred fast day.”

Thus ends the narration of the glories of Phalguna-sukla Ekadasi, or Amalaki Ekadasi, from the Brahmanda Purana.

This article has been used courtesy of ISKCON Desire Tree

 

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By Rasikendra das, Nama Rasana dd & Jahnavi dd

On Thursday 25th of February we watched the news with horror and we knew at that very moment our next door neighbours will need our help. On the same day we got a call from Ukrainian temple in Kiev, asking “If we were to send our woman and children would you look after them?” Our reply ” Of course, but what about you? We need to stay back and fight and protect our homeland and our temple and our elderly who don’t want to leave their homes.” Continue reading "Let us PLEASE work together to support devotee refugees- report from Polish yatra
→ Dandavats"

 

 

The Hare Krishna School

Founded in 1982, our Hare Krishna School is New Zealand’s only Primary and Intermediate school based on Krishna Consciousness. We are a state-integrated special character school catering for students in years 1-10.

Gaura Purnima is now just around the corner with 10 days to go! we humbly urge you all to come forward and make the Abhishek ceremony a success with your generous donations. It is once in a year opportunity to directly bath the Lord with your items, so why not seize it and get all […]

The post Abhishek Seva Opportunity – Gaura Purnima 2022 appeared first on Mayapur.com.

This final video of Day 4 (March 5) of the Radha Madhava Golden Jubilee Festival (March 2-5) documents the appreciation of Vaisnavas who have served in Mayapur for many years, the Maha Yajna, as well as the Grand Finale procession of Radha Madhava through the ISKCON Mayapur complex with a million lamps lighted.

 

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Please take a look at the wonderful Jali panel on the Nrisimhadev Staircase Tower! Carved from famous Jaipur sandstone, with its natural pink color and graceful design, it wonderfully complements the architectural beauty of the Temple.

The same Jali will be installed on the rest of the TOVP staircase towers. Each panel is about 14 meters high (46 feet) and 7 meters (23 feet) wide.

Step by step we are approaching the completion of the major temple work so Sri Sri Radha Madhava, Sri Pancha Tattva and Sri Nrsimhadeva can be relocated to Their new home in 2024!

 

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Nrsimhananda das: My mother , Mimi Jaffe, departed peacefully March 7 at the ripe old age of 100. Her pastimes with Srila Prabhupada are inscribed by his letters to her in response to her many challenges.Read More...

Today, March 4, in Kharkiv, by the grace of Krishna, we came to distribute Krishna prasadam in the subway. Guys, it’s just like in a movie of post-apocalypse. People live right on the floor, with dogs, cats, and things. On different types of bedding. Crowds of people. They sleep, chat, read books. They said there were 2,000 people in the subway station. There was a huge queue. We fed at least 500 people.

Today there was soup, 110 liters; drinks of two types, 80 liters; a lot of bread, two types; and three types of sweets. Oh, what an amazing bread we made—fragrant, nice smell. We also handed out Srila Prabhupada’s books. Filming inside was prohibited. There are entire communities living inside the trains. This war brought these people together. They became like one family. As we left, and they simply clapped and thanked us very much.

One guy is reading Bhagavad-gita right now. Another guy came up to us and asked for a book. A lot of children. Everyone took sweets. I deliberately walked around the entire station and went into each train car to give food.

These are the situations that make many of us think about the meaning of life. If we ask the Lord to save our lives, then we must ask why. Who am I that He should save my life? Am I special? What have I done for the good of mankind? What have I done for the good of society? How do I live? Why do I live, and for whom? This question hangs right in the air above each of us. I am asking the Lord to save my life not so that I can just eat, sleep, go to the toilet, and spread hate and gossip on the Internet.

My life must be preserved in order for me to bring values ??to society. I must bring value to God and to people. We have to strive to bring to others the light of knowledge and the values ??of life. Many are offended by war, but war is just one aspect of this world. It teaches us to value our human life and not to waste it simply on animal needs. Man is not an animal. When a person begins to live like a beast, he is deeply dissatisfied and tries to settle down somewhere. War reminds us of the frailty of material existence. War teaches us to appreciate those we love, to see the needs of others. And so we live in a cocoon of marginal consumer relations, where a person’s life is needed only in order to satisfy their needs in a sophisticated way. And it loses its value.

Under normal circumstances, these 2,000 people would never have become a family. War teaches us to appreciate life and enjoy the simple things. Yes, this is a tough training. Mother nature already tried to inspire us naughty children with a whisper of love, then with the voice of conscience. It didn’t work out. And now we need a mouthful of suffering. May it sparkle with fresh colors of love, kindness, joy, abundance, and prosperity that we will share with the world. Appreciate your life and help others understand its value. Then there will be no wars in the world. Material nature will not need to resort to such harsh methods of teaching. And this will be only when the Supreme Lord is pleased with us.

We are pleased to announce the launch of the new TOVP Archival Videos page on the TOVP website, featuring videos of Srila Prabhupada in Sridham Mayapur and other important footage and documentaries.

In an effort to maintain the historical perspective of the development of ISKCON Mayapur and the TOVP for future generations of devotees, our website team has created this important archival page, along with others such as the Archival Photo Page and Flipbook Page. We hope devotees will visit these pages often for inspiration and are pleased with this endeavor. View the Archival Videos Page today!

 

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Visions of the TOVP is a special photo page on the TOVP website highlighting artistic, beautiful and inspiring views of the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium by various devotees from Mayapur and around the world.

The aesthetic sense of these photos reveals the visual essence of the TOVP as well as its grandness and sheer size amidst the rice paddy fields of West Bengal. As the project reaches completion with its many acres of garden frontage, and becomes one of the Wonders of the World, we anticipate many more images of this kind will find their way to a worldwide audience.

Visit the Visions of the TOVP website page today and feel the presence of the TOVP impress your heart and soul. Hare Krishna!

 

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