Thursday, June 27th, 2019
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Toronto, Ontario

People Coming And Sitting

A couple from Saudi Arabia and their baby in a stroller sat down next to us in the park. One of our chanting party members handed them a card promoting the soon-to-arrive "Chariot Fest" which is also called "Festival of India" and this compelled them to join us. They have only been in Canada for nine months and are loving it.  They were curious.

"But you're not from India?"

I looked around and noted all of us pale-faced persons.  Except for Ananda on the djembe, our group was all white, including our visiting swami, Niranjan Maharaja.

"I was born in Chatham, Ontario, and most of us here are Canadian, American or European,” I said.

The couple were astounded, first that we had adopted the ancient spiritual ways of India, and second, with our sense of openness.  I do hope we will see them again.  I did explain the meaning of the mantrawe were singing.

"Krishna refers to the Creator. Rama implies ‘enjoyer’.  Hare is a word that calls on our service to the Creator.  And the execution of it is done in a joyful way."

These Arab folks were grateful and expressed it in the most courteous way. And just as they left, a couple of young lads sat by to join in our magical mystery mantras; one had stark yellow hair with dreads.  They sat for a while and then a young woman took part in the chant.

In this way, interest by the public at Christie Pitts Park, was sustained as we sat under the shade of trees and upon the softest of grass.   https://www.instagram.com/p/BzQA-ZuAjjA/?igshid=b3ljyaqsjq00

May the Source be with you!
3 km



Wednesday, June 26th, 2019
→ The Walking Monk

Toronto, Ontario

Last Exit

One member of our local community who comes regularly for priestly tasks drove Jai and I to his residential area at Pape and Danforth.  It was at my request.  "From your place the two of us will walk back to the ashram, a distance of five kilometres, exactly."

It's been hot here and the sun was blazing, "Jai, let's go on the shady side of the street."  The sun was going on its westerly way, casting shadows from buildings and trees on a slightly northern slant.  That was relieving.

On streets of commerce, with more dense pedestrian traffic, it’s difficult to greet everyone.  Once we got to the well treed and home district through Rosedale, it became easy to say simply, "How are you?" and then receive some reciprocation. It must be something about bushes and trees that calms us.  Plus when you have those nice Victorian homes to your right and left, the feeling is very homey and safe.

In going over the Don Valley Parkway via the bridge, you have this expansive view. People used to jump from this bridge until the city made it impossible to leap from there.  Some people are indeed living in despair, having lost hope, looking for opportunities to give up after trying to give life another shot. The bridge is called the Bloor Viaduct. I knew at least two people, over the years, who decided to make this Don Valley their last image.  https://www.instagram.com/p/BzNcmV2A8PM/?igshid=1rxwmja8pdt6u

Each time I cross that bridge, I can't help but remember that the viaduct was the last exit for a number of people.  It's sad but real.

May the Source be with you!
5 km


Tuesday, June 25th, 2019
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Miami / Toronto

Becoming Relevant

I've left Florida and landed in Canada, and done some walking with Jai. Thoughts were flowing through my mind in the course of the walk.  I'll share and let those thoughts flow in as natural a fluidity as possible.   https://www.instagram.com/p/BzKFtffAn0k/?igshid=n1oo069onhre

There is a controversy drifting in the air within the local community.  The subject is whether to go vegan at our festivals with the public, go partly vegan, or not at all, in other words, "stick to the paneer and butter please."

Soon our biggest event of the year is approaching.  Yes, soon 40,000 folks will attend our annual Chariot/India Fest. These days to be more relevant to the public, who are becoming more and more sensitive to animal slaughter issues, we must think twice before we dish out the food.  Cows and bulls, innocent creatures, are being mercilessly tortured and slaughtered.  The dairy industry is intrinsically connected to slaughter.  If you purchase and consume dairy then you support the system of animal killing.  It's that simple.

In the Krishna culture, rooted in ancient India, cows and bulls were always revered for their dharmic contributions to the human population, through the milk surplus and ox power.  Those animals were never slaughtered.  But now, and particularly here, in the west, they are. When we purchase milk in those plastic bags, even if done for deities, we are backing a corrupt system.  Hence, our guru, Prabhupada, asked for self-sustained ahimsa communities. We have a long way to go to get there. We must think deeply about this. I personally opt for non-dairy products—coconut milk and oil and other choices for such events.

If Burger King and McDonald's are bending to the public demand with vegan burgers, then a community like ours should also consider becoming more relevant.

May the Source be with you!
6 km


Monday, June 24th, 2019
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Miami, Florida

The Day of the Iguana

Iguanas by the dozens were taking in the rays in the sun, just being very stoic until P. Krpa and I started walking in their territory.  They went scurrying about here and there until they came to that lagoon, taking shelter of its waters or the trees nearby.  Their speed disallowed candid pics.  We were at Virginia Beach.

Instead of attempting to get some time in walking, we opted for the swim. Unfortunately the water is shallow. I was content to get some mobilization in.  Can't complain.  P.K.'s massage on the legs helped.  At Rasalila's home some friends and family came.  When in Miami almost anywhere in the city there is a strong Hispanic presence, origins from just about any place in South America, Central America and the Caribbean.  My presentation was in English.  Using the same formula as the previous night's sangha, we have food—great lasagna—reading, discussion and kirtan.  It's just the perfect fix for a summer evening.  Bhakti-yogisdo know how to party in the absence of drugs, liquor, sex and hopefully gossip, thank God.

A storm did rip through the city in the late afternoon.  Builders across the street, from the loft I'm staying in, responded to nature.  The lightning, thunder and hail shooed them away.  Mangoes came crashing down.  It is that season, and it makes one thankful despite the heat which becomes unbearable. There is always some consolation.

If there is one topic that surged forth as significant at Rasalila's place, it was gratitude.  Expressions of gratitude will always be an obligation.

May the Source be with you!
0 km


Sunday, June 23rd, 2019
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Miami, Florida

Living With the High King


No walking today.  Being a passenger in a car—yes.  From Tampa area, a group of us drove south to Miami.  Temperatures are in the high 90s and it's humid.  Upon arriving at a rented space on a floor in Coconut Grove, every AC unit and every fan was on, full-blast, to address this northern swami's needs.

The apartment filled up with guests, very quickly, for an evening sangha.  My choice excerpt of reading was a passage from Shyamasundar's book, Chasing Rhinos with the Swami.  Here is a quote from scholar, Plotinus, which our guru, Prabhupada, really approved.

"If the (individual) souls remain in the intelligible realm with the Soul, they are beyond harm, and share in the Soul's governance.  They are like kings who live with the High King.  But there comes a point at which they come down from this state, to one of individuality.  They wish to become independent.  When a soul remains for long in this withdrawal in estrangement from the whole, it becomes a thing fragmented, isolated, and weak."

This passage stirred up some interest, especially for one thoughtful eighteen year old.  We discussed it in greater detail.  Other questions came forward from the other youths, not challenging.  Just clarity is what they were going for.

The meal was scrumptious, the chanting—so lively.  I'm grateful to the organizers and also for my Gainesville hosts, Ananta Sesa and Vaishnavi.

May the Source be with you!
0 km

Pioneer Preacher Pusta Krishna Das Passes Away
→ ISKCON News

Born Paul Dossick, he joined ISKCON in October 1970 in Gainesville, Florida. Leaving college as a premed student in his last quarter, he immediately set off with Gargamuni Swami to assist the preaching in Dhaka, East Pakistan, in March 1971. In April, when the Bangladesh Liberation War broke out, they escaped to Bombay just in time. 

Blissful Harinama in Turin, Italy (1 min. video)
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Blissful Harinama in Turin, Italy (1 min. video)
Srila Prabhupada: “As a result of chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, one makes such great advancement in spiritual life that simultaneously his material existence terminates and he receives love of Godhead. The holy name of Krishna is so powerful that by chanting even one name, one very easily achieves these transcendental riches.” (Caitanya-caritamrta, Adi-lila, 8.28)

Ganga Puja Video!
→ Mayapur.com

  This is the video of the Ganga Puja festival held recently at  Sri Sri Gaura-Ganga Jagat-pavani Mandir, Devotees came together to hear the glories of Ganga mata & pastimes of Lord Caitanya on the banks of Ganges, offer abhishek & arti and honor prasada. “The waters of the Ganges are always carrying the flavor […]

The post Ganga Puja Video! appeared first on Mayapur.com.

Summer marathon of book distribution in Birmingham, UK, with 60 devotees
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Summer marathon of book distribution in Birmingham, UK, with 60 devotees (Album of photos)
Geeta Bhandari: Day 2 of the Summer Marathon. Our Monthly Sankirtan Festival in Birmingham was pretty far out to say the least with approximately 60 devotees participating. We initially had a one and a half hour seminar presented by His Grace Vaisesika Prabhu at Birmingham temple. We then all split into groups and went out Door to Door as well as Street distribution in Birmingham City Centre.

Sri Jaganmohini Keshava Swamy Temple at Ryali
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"Ryali" in local Telugu language means falling. According to the Srimad-Bhagavatam when the Demigods and Rakshas were quarreling over sharing of holy divine nectar, seeing this, Lord Krishna came in the guise of Mohini-Murti avatar to the rescue of demigods and convinced both the rivalry groups promising to distribute the divine nectar in equal share to Demigods and Rakshas.

To what extent is metaphorical understanding of scripture acceptable or unacceptable?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Podcast

The post To what extent is metaphorical understanding of scripture acceptable or unacceptable? appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

ECO-Vrindaban Board Meeting Minutes 05/05/2019
→ New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit

ECO-Vrindaban New Vrindaban ISKCON cows gardens Prabhupada ISKCON

ECO-Vrindaban Board Meeting Minutes 05/05/2019

Mission Statement: ECO-Vrindaban promotes cow protection, local agriculture, and above all, loving Krishna, as envisioned by Srila Prabhupada, ISKCON New Vrindaban’s Founder-Acharya.

Participating Directors: Anuttama, Chaitanya Mangala, Jamuna Jivani (board secretary), Makara (chair), Olivia, Ranaka, and Vraja.

Participating Advisors: Jaya Krsna and Kripamaya

1. Ranaka’s Monthly Report

  • Lalita Gopi (Temple Barn)
    • Currently seven cows being milked at the barn. Anjali, Usa, Jaya Radhe, Lakshmi, Cintamani, Surabhi, Subhadra. They are providing 25 gal of milk daily.
    • Cintamani gave birth to a heifer on April 22.  They are both doing very well. The calf has been named Satyabhama. 
    • There are three calves residing at the barn: Satyabhama, Jai Sri, and Puspavati.
    • Anandavidya is currently making  30-40 lb of butter and 20 gal of yogurt weekly.
    • The Temple Barn has been painted by Lalita Gopi with help from Gopakumar, Jamuna, Moses, Nolan, Manuel, Will, and John. 
    • The Cow Festival was held April 27 and 28. We had visitors from local areas. There was an incense making booth, butter making booth, and local products for sale. The guests brushed and decorated the cows. 
    • The vet came to treat an infected wound on Parijata
    • Parijata is due to calf soon. 
  • Ray (General Farmhand)
    • Moved hay to Temple Barn and Nandagram
    • Barn and equipment maintenance 
    • Continuing with the cleanup of the Brick Yard area in preparation for the installation of the two high tunnel greenhouses this summer 
    • Moved 26 cows from the Valley Barn and two cows from the Temple Barn to Bahulaban for summer pasture.
    • Planted 1,400 lb of potato seed with the assistance of Caitanya Bhagavat. Half of the seed was planted in the Community Garden and half  was planted below Valley Barn in bottom by Wheeling Creek.
    • Rearranged the remaining hay in the Valley Barn in preparation for this summer’s hay making and storage.
    • Prepared the hay making equipment for the upcoming season 
    • Replaced wind-damaged skylight on the Temple Barn with the assistance from Caitanya Bhagavat.
    • Moved manure from Temple Barn feed area to Community Garden for composting and storage.
  • Caitanya Bhagavat (Nandagram & Bahulaban)
    • Daily cow care for Nandagram and Bahulaban cows, including monitoring the herd numbers and veterinarian checks.
    • Walked and maintained all fence lines 
    • Mowed and weed whacked at Nandagram and Valley Barn.
    • Completed Bahulaban fencing for summer pasturing of 28 cows. Repaired fences and made new fence lines and brace posts.
    • We had the great fortune to serve Tulsi, one of our Brown Swiss cows, in her passing. She was one of Sri Sri Radha Vrindaban Chandra’s retired milk cows. She was 16 years old and had given birth to Kesava and Manjari, and had a grandson, Balarama. She left this world  in our geriatric barn at Nandagram in the presence of Salagram silas, and surrounded by her half sister Ganga, her friend and herd mate Punya Koti, our youngest oxen Bhadra and Asesa, and our burro Bodhi. She was listening to Srila Prabhupada’s kirtan, drinking Radha Kunda water with Govardhana dust, and eating maha prasada and tulasi leaves. 
  • Suchandra (Community & Teaching Gardens)
    • Tilled dahlia beds for planting.
    • Planted dahlias.
    • Started pepper seeds and roma tomato seeds. 
    • Organized and cleaned out the front area of the storage building at the Teaching Garden.
    • Teaching Garden and Community Garden seasonal planning.
    • Vidya’s Garden
      • Picked 10 lb of asparagus
      • Planted 40 bitter melon plants
      • Seeded a 50-foot row of green beans 
      • Started and transplanted 300 tomato plants
      • Started and transplanted 2,000 flowers 
      • Picked lilacs and other flowers
  • Ranaka (General Manager)
    • Ordered two 30’ x 96’ high tunnels from Yoder’s, secured by a $5,000 down payment. These will be installed by them this summer.
    • Purchased new Honda ATV for $6,401 to be used by Caitanya Bhagavat for fencing and herd care.
    • With the birth of Satyabhama and death of Tulasi, the total herd count remains at 63.

2. External Funding Request: $500K for Palace Roof Restoration

WHEREAS: ECO-V wishes to help preserve Srila Prabhupada’a preeminent samadhi in North America. 

RESOLVED: The ECO-Vrindaban board authorizes up to $500K toward Prabhupada’s Palace roof and dome restoration effort, as presented by members of the INV board and the Palace Restoration Committee.

ECO-Vrindaban Board Meeting Minutes 4/4/2019
→ New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit

ECO-Vrindaban New Vrindaban ISKCON cows gardens Prabhupada ISKCON


ECO-Vrindaban Board Meeting Minutes 4/4/2019

Mission Statement: ECO-Vrindaban promotes cow protection, local agriculture, and above all, loving Krishna, as envisioned by Srila Prabhupada, ISKCON New Vrindaban’s Founder-Acharya.

Participating Directors: Chaitanya Mangala, Makara (chair), Olivia, Anuttama, Ranaka, and Vraja.

  1. Ranaka’s Monthly Report
  • Lalita Gopi (Temple Barn)
  • There are currently six cows who are giving 18 gal of milk daily: Jaya Radha, Usha, Surabhi, Subhadra, Lakshmi, and Anjali. (Jamuna is dry and preparing for retirement).
  • Parijata and Cintamani are due to calf in April.
  • There are three calves residing in the barn (Gaurangi, Jai Sri, and Puspavati).
  • There are also nine adult cows living in the barn
  • Anandavidya is making 30 lb of butter and 20 gal of yogurt weekly
  • He has also been emptying the temple compost bins into the manure pile with the tractor.
  • The Temple Barn is currently being painted
  • Temple devotees have begun holding go-puja outside the barn, near the calf pen
  • Ray (Farm Hand)
  • Moved hay to Temple Barn and Nandagram as needed.
  • Barn and equipment maintenance.
  • Removed leftover paver bricks and brush next to brick yard to clear area for proposed high tunnel site.
  • Continuing to pick up fencing material to help Caitanya Bhagavat with Nandagram fencing, as well as work on Valley Barn fencing with help from Ryan.
  • Cleaned up winter manure pile at Temple Barn and spread it on the Community Garden.
  • Disked Community Garden and Creek Bottom by Valley Barn
  • Picked up potato seed from co-op and cut to seeding size, and prepared potato planter for planting.
  • Finished upgrade on seed starting/transplant prep greenhouse.
  • Caitanya Bhagavat (Nandagram)
  • Major spring fencing for whole of Nandagram and now working on Bahulaban pastures
  • Assisted veterinarian with pregnancy checks
  • General cow care and geriatric care for Tulasi
  • Suchandra (Community & Teaching Gardens)
  • Groundcover laid at Vidya’s
  • Vidya started marigold seeds, cherry tomatoes, and some other plants
  • Vidya has a new helper, Angie, who recently moved to the community
  • Hand-tilled five beds at teaching garden. The rest will be done with the tiller.
  • Brought the remainder of the bulb plants for the year (hyacinth and amarilla) to temple
  • Made tomato cages and started planning where they will be placed in the Teaching Garden.
  • Made a list of supplies that need replacing and organized hoses for set up.
  • Started planning for planting at the Community and Teaching Gardens
  • Suchandra, Vidya, Ranaka, and Ray met with Kacey to go over high tunnel order and placement.
  • Ranaka (General Manager)
  • Working with Yoder’s on the high tunnel proposal
  • Two pregnant brown Swiss milk cows (Parijata and Cintamani) were purchased by the INV fundraising department
  • Total herd count stands at 63.

2. Internal Funding Request: $40K for High Tunnels

WHEREAS: ECO-V wishes to extend the growing season for its gardening efforts.

RESOLVED: The ECO-V board authorizes up to $40K for the purchase and installation of two high tunnels.

3. Internal Funding Request: $7K for ATV

WHEREAS: ECO-V wishes to maintain adequate vehicles for its farm related activities.

RESOLVED: The ECO-V board authorizes up to $7K for the purchase of a Honda Rancher ATV.

WSN May 2019 – World Sankirtan Newsletter
→ Dandavats

By Vijaya das

Allons enfants de la Patrie, Le jour de gloire est arrivé! Last week we went to a festival in Tours. It was encouraging to see one of our senior devotees, Janananda Goswami, running around distributing books like a twenty-year old (he’s seventy). He stayed out till 12:30 a.m. distributing books — ecstasy! Before he went to France, it was pretty much off the map of book distribution, but in May, Paris did 1,225 book points and New Mayapura did 662 book points. Not many farm communities distribute books, but New Mayapura does. Continue reading "WSN May 2019 – World Sankirtan Newsletter
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Chariots festival Ratha Yatra in Wroclaw, Poland, 22 June 2019 …
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Chariots festival Ratha Yatra in Wroclaw, Poland, 22 June 2019 (6 min. video)
Srila Prabhupada: “Although Kali-yuga is full of faults, there is still one good quality about this age. It is that simply by chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra, one can become free from material bondage and be promoted to the transcendental kingdom.” (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 12.3.51 Purport)

The Times of India Promotes Sridhama Mayapur
- TOVP.org

A few days ago we reported on a video documentary produced by the West Bengal Department of Tourism about the 2019 Gaur Purnima Festival in Sridhama Mayapur in their beginning efforts to help promote ISKCON Mayapur and the TOVP. You can read the article and view the video here.

Below is a follow up article printed in the Times of India. This combined effort of the West Bengal Department of Tourism and India media will help to put Sridhama Mayapur and the TOVP on the world map and achieve our long-term goal to bring millions of visitors to the holy place of Lord Caitanya’s birth for the spiritual upliftment of humanity.

“My idea is to attract people of the whole world to Mayapur”

Srila Prabhupada

MISSION 22 MARATHON KI JAYA! THINK 22! TOVP NOW!
 

TOVP NEWS AND UPDATES – STAY IN TOUCH

Visit us at: www.tovp.org
Follow us at: www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
Watch us at: www.youtube.com/user/tovpinfo
View us 360° at: www.tovp360.org
Phone App at: http://tovp.org/news/announcements/new-tovp-phone-app-goes-live/
Mailing List at: https://goo.gl/forms/ojJ2WcUUuqWh8bXt1
RSS News Feed at: https://tovp.org/rss2/
Buy from us at: https://tovp.org/tovp-gift-store/
Support us at: https://tovp.org/donate/seva-opportunities/

The post The Times of India Promotes Sridhama Mayapur appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

10 day marathon of book distribution in UK (Album of…
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10 day marathon of book distribution in UK (Album of photos)
Geeta Bhandari: The first day of the 10 day marathon was a roaring success. We were all blessed to go out door to door in Stanmore with His Grace Vaisesika das. He is so empowered and inspired us as he invariably does. The people were so receptive and we had so much fun. Seeing how fulfilled and content people are when they receive the books is truly one of life’s most special gifts. Thank you Vaisesika das for giving us so much of your time, wisdom & blessings which allowed us to give Srila Prabhupada to those lovely conditioned souls!

Dream World
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By Chirag Dangarwala

With the advancement of the ages, human consciousness had changed too. It is believed that today modern society has advanced far more than the ancient civilization. With more technology and equipments available at disposal, everything has become fast paced and instant. Material science has achieved a lot of progress than the yester years. This progress is thought of as an advancement in Civilization and is looked upon as a great achievement by the society Continue reading "Dream World
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The painkiller of entertainment is easily available, but does the cure of enlightenment needs to be given by someone enlightened
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Podcast

The post The painkiller of entertainment is easily available, but does the cure of enlightenment needs to be given by someone enlightened appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

Sun Love Feast – Jun 30th, 2019 – Vedic discourse by His Grace Vaisnava Prabhu
→ ISKCON Brampton


                               



Chant: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare 

Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare 

And Be Happy!!

ayur harati vai pumsam
udyann astam ca yann asau
tasyarte yat-ksano nita
uttama-sloka-vartaya

Both by rising and by setting, the sun decreases the duration of life of everyone, except one
who utilizes the time by discussing topics of the all-good Personality of Godhead.
 ~ Srimad Bhagavatam 2.3.17




11.00 - 11.15      Tulsi Puja
11.15  - 11.30     Guru Puja
11:30 - 11:55     Aarti & Kirtan
11.55  - 12.00    Sri Nrsingadeva Prayers
12.00 - 1:00     Vedic discourse
  1.00 - 1.30      Closing Kirtan
  1.30 - 2.00     Sanctified Free Vegetarian Feast



COMING UP AHEAD

 Sayana Ekadasi
Fasting.....................on Fri Jul 12th,2019
Breakfast................  on Sat Jul 13th, 2019 b/w 5.48am – 10:52am

Every fortnight, we observe Ekadasi, a day of prayer and meditation. On this day we follow a complete fast from eating and drinking. We spend extra time reading the scriptures and chanting the auspicious Hare Krishna mantra. By constantly ‘exercising’ our minds through regular japa we can train our senses to push the threshold of contentment.

ONGOING PROGRAMS


Vedic Education & Learning For Grownups
Next Seminar will be announced shortly.

ISKCON Brampton offers various courses and Seminars for adults. The courses take a personal approach to learning. It encourages the student not only to study thoroughly the contents of Srila Prabhupada’s books but also to clearly understand the philosophy and practically apply it. The course focuses on behaviour and character, nurturing students in appropriate Vaishnava values. Professionally designed and presented, it draws on the principles of Krishna consciousness and the best of progressive education. In this way, it is true to ISKCON’s heritage and at the same time relevant to its mission in contemporary society.

For further information, please contact HG Prema Gaurangi Devi Dasi @ premagaurangi.jps@hotmail.com

Adult Education At The Temple
ISKCON Brampton offers various courses and Seminars for adults. The courses take a personal approach to learning. It encourages the student not only to study thoroughly the contents of Srila Prabhupada’s books but also to clearly understand the philosophy and practically apply it. The course focuses on behaviour and character, nurturing students in appropriate Vaishnava values.
Professionally designed and presented, it draws on the principles of Krishna consciousness
and the best of progressive education. In this way, it is true to ISKCON’s heritage and at the
same time relevant to its mission in contemporary society.

For further information, please contact HG Prema Gaurangi Devi Dasi @ premagaurangi.jps@hotmail.com


Sunday School

To register,contact us
Email:sundayschool108@gmail.com
Call:647.893.9363

The Sunday School provides fun filled strategies through the medium of music, drama, debates,
quizzes and games that present Vedic Culture to children. However the syllabus is also designed
to simultaneously teach them to always remember Krishna and never forget Him.
The Sunday School follows the curriculum provided by the Bhaktivedanta College of Education and Culture (BCEC).


Monthly sankirtan Festival(MSF)
“One who has life can preach, and one who preaches gets life.”(Previous Acaryas)
Every member of ISKCON should have the opportunity to make advancement in Krishna
consciousness by preaching.We encourage everyone to come out and participate and make
Srila Prabhupada happy.

Please contact:
Dharma Dasa- dharandev58@gmail.com-647.892.0739(Mississauga and Brampton regions)


The Mentorship Program

Please note that registration in the Mentorship System is now a mandatory requirement for all initiation requests at ISKCON Brampton.It

1.Facilitates  and nurtures devotees aspiring for first and second Initiation.
2.One-on-One personal follow up on a regular basis.
3.Systematic training to devotees in matters of Philosophy, Sadhna, Vaishnava behavior, etiquette, Lifestyle and attitudes.

To find details please click here


Gift Shop

Are you looking for some amazing gift items which are less expensive and more beautiful for your
loved ones for festivals or many other occasions??
Our boutique is stocked with an excellent range of products, perfect for gifts or as souvenirs of your
visit. It offers textiles, jewelry, incense, devotional articles, musical instruments, books, and CDs
inspired by Indian culture.We're open on all Sundays and celebrations marked in our annual calendar.

Harinama in Israel (5 min. video)
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Harinama in Israel (5 min. video)
Srila Prabhupada: In the Adi Purana Krishna tells Arjuna: “Anyone who is engaged in chanting My transcendental name must be considered to be always associating with Me. And I may tell you frankly that for such a devotee I become easily purchased.” (Nectar of Devotion, 12)

The gopis pulled Madhumangal’s sikha! (Album of…
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The gopis pulled Madhumangal’s sikha! (Album of photos)
Deena Bandhu Das: We are extremely grateful to the devotees of Sri Jagannath Mandir, Seshadripuram for their loving hospitality. They arranged nice preaching programs and took care of us like a family. In the temple preside Sri Jagannath, Baladev, and Subhadra, along with Sri Sri Radha Krishna Chandra, Sri Lakshmi Nrisimha and Sri Sri Gaura Nitai.

Shaunaka Rishi das – Education, Vision, Love & More (video)
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Shaunaka Rishi das - Education, Vision, Love & More (video)
Shaunaka Rishi das is the Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies (OCHS), a position he has held since the Centre’s foundation in 1997. He is also a Hindu cleric, a lecturer, a broadcaster, and Hindu Chaplain to Oxford University. His interests include education, comparative theology, communication, and leadership. He is a member of The Commission on Religion and Belief in British Public Life, convened in 2013 by the Woolf Institute, Cambridge. In 2013 the Indian government appointed him to sit on the International Advisory Council of the Auroville Foundation.

Inauguration of ISKCON Dindies- Worlds largest walking festival…
→ Dandavats



Inauguration of ISKCON Dindies- Worlds largest walking festival (Album of photos)
Pandharpur Wari or Wari (Vari) is an annual pilgrimage (yatra) to Pandharpur - the abode of Lord Vithoba(Krishna) in the Indian state of Maharashtra, in honour of the deity. Palakhis (palanquin processions) carrying the paduka (foot prints) of various saints - most notably Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram - from the Varkari (Warkari, “one who performs the Wari”) sect (which venerates Vithoba), are taken from their respective shrines to Pandharpur.

Srivas Pandita-An Eternal Companion of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu
→ Mayapur.com

Ecstatic kīrtans and nectarean discourses on Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. All night long this was the typical sight observed in the house of Śrīvāsa Paṇḍita. Why was Śrīvāsa Āṅgan chosen? What was its specialty? Dive below to know more. With hands folded and head finely tilted to its left stands the tall deity of Śrīvāsa Paṇḍita – the fifth member […]

The post Srivas Pandita-An Eternal Companion of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu appeared first on Mayapur.com.

70-я Юбилейная Вьяса-пуджа Е.С. Локанатхи Махараджа и служение Храму Ведического Планетария
- TOVP.org

С самого зарождения у Амбариши прабху идеи о том, чтобы приступить к строительству Храма ведического планетария в 2008 году, Его Святейшество Локанатха Махарадж был главным столпом и убежденным сторонником нашего проекта. Он и его ученики пожертвовали крупные суммы для оплаты строительных работ, и вдохновленные его примером продолжают поддерживать храм.

Команда Храма ведического планетария хотела бы воздать хвалу служению Локанатхи Махараджа в день празднования его наиболее благоприятной 70-ой Юбилейной Вьяса-пуджи, которая состоится 12 июля 2019 года, и предложить еще одну возможность для поддержки проекта и помощи Махараджу в строительстве этого храма для Шрилы Прабхупады: кирпич/флаг Локанатхи Махараджа. Ученики Махараджа могут стать спонсорами кирпича, выполненного по особому заказу, с высеченным на нем именем Махараджа и своим именем, который будет навечно помещен под алтарь Гуру-парампары. Дополнительно, в качестве уникального подарка спонсорам от их имени и имени Махараджа на купол Нрисимхадева будет поднят Победный флаг. Сумма данного пожертвования составляет 1 600 долларов США / 100 000 индийских рупий.

В рамках данной экстатичной кампании по служению Шриле Прабхупаде будет доступно только 1008 кирпичей и флагов. Инициированные ученики и кандидаты в ученики могут прямо сейчас оформить свое пожертвование на сайте Храма ведического планетария, перейдя по ссылке ниже, и либо сразу оплатить всю сумму целиком, либо выплатить его за несколько взносов в течение одного года – до июля 2020 года. Махараджу передадут список всех его учеников, кто принял участие в данной кампании по сбору средств, чтобы он смог принять их служение и лично предложить его Шриле Прабхупаде в Шридхаме Майяпуре. Он также поднимет Победный флаг над куполом Храма ведического планетария от лица всех своих учеников, чтобы благословить их и обеспечить их успех в выплате обещанных пожертвований в рамках нашей компании «Сдержи свое обещание Храму ведического планетария».

Не тяните, эти кирпичи и флаги разлетятся очень быстро. Сделайте свое пожертвование уже сегодня и воспользуйтесь этим предложением в честь 70-ой Юбилейной Вьяса-пуджи, пока еще есть кирпичи и флаги.

Уникальная возможность служения:

7 столпов Киртанам были специально зарезервированы для преданных, которые хотят профинансировать их от лица Локанатхи Махараджа, одного из столпов киртана, «киртан-самрата» ИСККОН. Уже намечено, что Махарадж проведет первый киртан на церемонии торжественного открытия храма в 2022 году. На пожертвованных колоннах на обозрение многим будущим поколениям преданных будет высечено имя Локанатхи Махараджа и имя спонсора, что увековечит славу выдающегося таланта Махараджа в воспевании киртана.

Пожертвуйте уже сегодня: https://cutt.ly/LMVyasaPuja2019!

МАРАФОН «МИССИЯ 22» КИ ДЖАЙ! ПОМНИТЕ ОБ ОТКРЫТИИ В 22 ГОДУ И ПОДДЕРЖИТЕ УЖЕ СЕЙЧАС!


 

НОВОСТИ ХВП – БУДЬТЕ В КУРСЕ

Посетите ХВП: www.tovp.org
Читайте о ХВП: www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
Смотрите о ХВП: www.youtube.com/user/tovpinfo
Смотрите о ХВП в 360°: www.tovp360.org
Загрузите приложение ХВП для мобильного телефона: www.tovp.org/ru/announcements-ru/new-tovp-phone-app-goes-live/
Подпишитесь на новости ХВП: https://goo.gl/forms/ojJ2WcUUuqWh8bXt1
Новостная Подписка через RSS: https://tovp.org/rss2/
Покупайте у нас: https://tovp.org/tovp-gift-store/
Поддержите ХВП: https://tovp.org/ru/donate/seva-opportunities/

The post 70-я Юбилейная Вьяса-пуджа Е.С. Локанатхи Махараджа и служение Храму Ведического Планетария appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

H.H. Lokanath Maharaja 70th Anniversary Vyasa Puja TOVP Seva Opportunity
- TOVP.org

Since the inception of the idea to begin construction on the TOVP in 2008 by Ambarisa prabhu, His Holiness Lokanath Maharaja has been a main pillar and staunch supporter of the project. He and his disciples have pledged and donated large amounts towards the work, and they continue to do so with his inspiration and example.

The TOVP would like to honor the service of Lokanath Maharaja on the most auspicious celebration of his 70th Vyasa Puja Anniversary on July 12th, 2019 with yet another opportunity to support the TOVP and help Maharaja build the temple for Srila Prabhupada. Announcing: the Lokanath Maharaja Brick Seva Campaign. Disciples of Maharaja can sponsor a custom-made brick inscribed with both his name and theirs to be placed under the Guru Parampara altar for all time. Additionally, as an exclusive bonus gift donors will receive a TOVP Victory Flag specially raised in Maharaja’s and their name onto the main dome. The sponsorship cost is $1600/₹100,000.

Only 1008 bricks and flags will be available for this ecstatic seva opportunity to serve Srila Prabhupada. Initiated and aspiring disciples can immediately make their donation using the TOVP website link below and either pay in full or in installments up to one year until July 2020. Maharaja will receive a list of all his disciples who donated for this campaign to recognize their service and will personally offer it to Srila Prabhupada in Sridhama Mayapur. He will also raise a Victory Flag onto the TOVP on behalf of all his disciples to bless them and insure victory in the fulfillment of their pledges as part of our Live Your TOVP Pledge Campaign.

Don’t wait, these bricks and coins will go fast. Make your pledge today and take advantage of this 75th Vyasa Puja Anniversary seva offer while the bricks and coins last.

A Unique Seva Opportunity:

As one of the pillars of kirtan, 7 specially reserved Kirtanam Pillars in the temple are also available to sponsor for the ISKCON “Kirtan Samrat”, Lokanath Maharaja. He is already scheduled to lead the first kirtan during the Grand Opening in 2022. These pillars will be inscribed with Lokanath Maharaja’s name and the name of the sponsor to be seen by generations of devotees in the future and will perpetuate Maharaja’s glorious kirtan stature.

Make Your Pledge Today: http://bit.ly/2IhPf9QLMVyasaPuja2019!

MISSION 22 MARATHON! THINK 22! TOVP NOW!

 

TOVP NEWS AND UPDATES – STAY IN TOUCH

Visit us at: www.tovp.org
Follow us at: www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
Watch us at: www.youtube.com/user/tovpinfo
View us 360° at: www.tovp360.org
Phone App at: http://tovp.org/news/announcements/new-tovp-phone-app-goes-live/
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RSS News Feed at: https://tovp.org/rss2/
Buy from us at: https://tovp.org/tovp-gift-store/
Support us at: https://tovp.org/donate/seva-opportunities/

The post H.H. Lokanath Maharaja 70th Anniversary Vyasa Puja TOVP Seva Opportunity appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

Snana-Yatra: Sunday, June 30th
→ The Toronto Hare Krishna Temple!


The annual Snana-Yatra festival is upon us this coming weekend- which means the Festival of India is fast approaching! This upcoming Sunday, June 30th Toronto's Hare Krishna Temple will be celebrating this most mesmerizing festival wherein Lord Jagannatha, Lord Balarama and Lady Subhadra will be bathed with many ambrosial liquids amidst enchanting kirtan!

After the bathing ceremony (snana-yatra), Their Lordships mysteriously "fall sick" and thus take to Their private quarters. For the next thirteen days, the right-most altar doors remain closed and the Deities do not give audience. Actually, during this period renovations are made on the body of the Deities. This is called nava-yauvana. During the Ratha-yātrā ceremony, the doors are opened and the Deities once again come before the public!

Please join in the wonderful Snana-Yatra festival! You do not want to miss out on this last opportunity to see Lord Jagannatha before his grand appearance on the Ratha-Yatra festival!

***Please note timings are different from a regular Sunday program***

The festival schedule is as follows (subject to change):
5:00pm to 5:15pm - Welcome & Announcements
5:15pm to 6:00pm - Class
6:00pm to 6:30pm - Arati
6:30pm to 7:15pm - Abisheka (Bathing Ceremony)
7:15pm onwards - Vegetarian Feast (Prasadam)

A Bhagavata Philosophy Of Education
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Hare KrishnaBy Radhika Ramana Dasa

You are asking what should your preaching work be now that you are attending the university. So the first preaching work is that yourself should become an ideal devotee. Lord Caitanya said that one should first make himself perfect and then attempt to instruct others. There is no point in telling another man to stop smoking if you yourself are smoking cigarettes. Even though you are mixing with all kinds of the student class at the university, you must strictly refrain from the four prohibitive sinful activities, and as an initiated student you must not let a day pass when you do not chant at least 16 rounds of Hare Krsna Mantra. If you can follow just these things nicely that in itself will be strong preaching by behavior. You should also always wear Kunti beads around the neck and wear the marking of tilak. People will inquire from you and you can tell them about Krsna Consciousness and sell them books also. (Letter to Niranjana, Hyderabad 23 April, 1974 74-04-23) Continue reading "A Bhagavata Philosophy Of Education
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Saturday, June 22nd, 2019
→ The Walking Monk

Alachua / Tampa

Last Day North

I had read from the book, Chaitanya Charitamrta,where Nityananda expresses that the body and soul are one, but the prana / atma / the soul is more important.  My reading with the follow-up verse and purport was the subject of discussion.  Naturally it led to the philosophical conclusion of acintyabedabedatattva: the inconceivable, simultaneous oneness but difference principle. The subsequent discussion among those who sat there, thirty-five or so people, was very interesting.

From that temple location in Alachua, several of us left for the ‘springs’ once again.  It was my preference to go for that natural therapy which was so much needed. One of the devotees, Vaikunthanath, insisted I use the snorkel.  "You could see everything underneath the water."  

But I declined, "I would rather do it the raw way and swim it like Johnny Weissmuller, with no gear."  I had found out that the champion swimmer and actor had all those Tarzan movies from the ’30s and ’40s filmed in Silver Springs, Florida, nearby.

Most people tube their way down the stream, and there appeared to be thousands of them, but Danesvara, age seventy, myself, and the rest—young men and women—vied for the swim.  They all agreed that was the superior way to go downstream. Farewell tubes!

From the ‘springs’ I was driven to Tampa for a kirtan and class from the Bhagavatam, Prayers by Queen Kunti.  I got everyone, about forty plus, to dance to Rayn's funky drum beats.  It was so engaging.  All were happy!  Tomorrow I head south to Miami.  https://www.instagram.com/p/By_6PIBgDXg/?igshid=nndpyliu9unt

May the Source be with you!

3 km on foot
3 km in water






Friday, June 21st, 2019
→ The Walking Monk

Alachua / Gainesville

Three Classes

I delivered three classes today, the same as I did yesterday.  At the Alachua ISKCON Centre, the class—followed by discussion—was in regard to a sage by the name of, Markandeya, who meditated, and performed austerities, which invoked the attention of the great Shiva and his wife, Parvati.  At their sudden appearance, he executed the most humble of yogicasanasor sitting postures.  Basically, he bowed to them and took a humble stance.

Our discussion then led to good behaviour within the Vaishnava culture.  A similar discussion took place at Krishna House when I read from Chapter Four of Volume 2 of, Chasing Rhinos With the Swami.  Author Shyamasundar Das, begins his chapter with the quality of a good soul—kindness to all.  He also highlighted patience.  He was relaying how our guru, Prabhupada, along with assistants, were held in quarantine for six days in India after having come from Africa.

Shyamasundar also addressed the good trait of ‘silence’. This does not refer to taking a vow of silence.  More specifically silence means to only speak of what is relevant to one's overall wellness, including the spirit's needs.

We all know how much time is consumed in chatter and gossip.  Such habits are very removed from saintliness.

Oops!  I forgot to mention the presentation made to the summer camp students.  We had a blast!

Also it was Day #2 for doing another swim within one of those springs.  My God, it's so therapeutic.  I would say that especially my knees are liking it.

May the Source be with you!

3 km on foot
4 km through water


Srivasa Pandit Disappearance
→ Ramai Swami

“Intelligent Srivasa Pandita had previously been Narada Muni, the best of the sages. Srivasa’s younger brother, Sriman Rama Pandita, had previously been Narada’s close friend Parvata Muni” (Gaura Ganodesh Dipika 90.) 

“It was in Srivasa Pandita’s house that Sri Chaitanya enacted His pastimes of sankirtana. Those four brothers (Srivasa, Sri Rama, Sripati and Srinidhi) were continuously engaged in singing the names of Sri Krishna. They worshipped Sri Krishna and bathed in the Ganges thrice daily.”

These four brothers previously lived in the district of Sri Hatta. Later on they came to reside on the banks of the Ganges. There they regularly used to attend the assembly of Devotees who gathered at Sri Advaita Acharya’s house to hear the Srimad Bhagavatam and engage in congregational chanting of the Holy Names. 

Gradually the brothers became very close friends of Sri Jagannatha Mishra, with whom they would chant and listen to the Bhagavatam.

In all matters Srivasa was the leader of the four brothers. By the strength of his devotion, he could understand that Sri Krishna was going to appear in the house of Jagannatha Misra.

Srivasa Pandits’s wife’s name was Sri Malini Devi. She was a very close friend of Sri Saci Devi and was always very helpful to her.