Planet ISKCON

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Ecstatic Rama Navami Celebrations in Madan, Bangladesh
Nila Kamal das: Madan is a small village located in North Bangladesh. For the last seven years, devotees from ISKCON Netrakona have been preaching there and have established regular Nama Hatta programs. There are around twenty initiated devotees there and they are conducting regular preaching programs there. ISKCON Netrakona devotees visit every month to inspire and enthuse the local devotees.
On the auspicious day of Lord Rama’s appearance, devotees from Madan arranged a wonderful pandal program in which nearly 2000 locals visited, took part in and honoured prasad.
‘Go on holding as many festivals as possible. Your reports are very convincing, this combination of book distribution and public festivals is very good for bringing the people to an attraction for Krishna Consciousness.’ June 5th 1974
On the day of the festival, devotees arrived in Madan around 11am. To the surprise of the devotees there were heavy wind and rain. Locals said that such extreme weather conditions were not to be seen even in the rainy season! At twelve noon, a yajna was performed under the expert guidance of HG Shyamasundarananda das (Mayapur). This was done in order to invoke auspiciousness for the festival. At the end of the yajna, Indra sent his blessings down again in the form of heavy rain. A small abhishek was then performed to a picture of Sita, Rama, Lakshman and Hanuman for Their pleasure. Devotees then went to break their fast and attend other services.
The evening program started at five with ecstatic kirtan. After the evening arati ceremony, various speakers shared their insights and realisations about the festival. Dr Subhananda das (National Heart Foundation, Dhaka) delivered a wonderful speech on how Lord Rama is ‘Maryada Purusottam’ and how He set the ideal example for all to follow. International guests from Spain and England then spoke to the audience and expressed their’ gratitude and happiness to be in Bangladesh to celebrate this festival.
Last but not least, the chief guest of the program; Shyamasundarananda das addressed the audience. He spoke on the paradox of the modern age. He described how the rich culture of Bangladesh is rapidly changing. ‘Every night in villages there used to be topics discussed on Ramayana and Mahabharata but now that tradition is not to be found. Now in the nights we find the villagers watching television or chatting on their smart phones.’ This statement deeply penetrated into the hearts of the locals. His grace then went on to narrate some wonderful pastimes of Lord Ramacandra which few devotees had ever heard off.
To conclude the speeches, HG Jay Ram das (ISKCON Netrakona President) thanked all the participants and volunteers for the festival and encouraged Madan devotees to again hold this festival next year.
The night ended with a drama performance by devotees enacting some sweet pastimes of Lord Rama. We would like to thank all the devotees who put in hard work and efforts in order for this program to be successful. We would especially like to thank the brahmacaris from ISKCON Netrakona, many who had sleepless in order to make arrangements for the program.
We hope that Srila Prabhupada and Caitanya Mahaprabhu are pleased with our humble efforts.

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Preaching program in Iskcon Chile (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Always follow my instructions and my example. This should be your life and soul. Letter to Hansadutta: – Mayapur 1 October, 1974
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February 24th, 2017

On the auspicious occassion of Vyasapuja celebration of HH Jayapataka Swami on 7th April, on Kamika Ekadasi day,  the disciples & wellwishers of HH Jayapataka Swami welcomed Maharaj, who arrived at Mayapur yesterday (5th Apr) with a grand reception. Mayapur community children and mataji’s walked in front , blowing conch shells, carrying waterpots and lamps, while […]

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By Braja Prema Dasa

This was the fourth annual parikrama (walking event) organized by ISKCON Pandharpur , with 250 participants from all over India and abroad. Many of them came from big cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Gaziabad, Pune, Muscat, Dubai, and also from Brazil. Our parikrama party was fortunate to have the presence of Navayogendra Maharaj, who gave various lectures during the walk. Other senior devotees who attended included Dharmaraja Dasa, Krishna Caitanya Dasa, Prahlada Dasa and Vitthalananda Dasa. The four-day parikrama started on February 4th and the daily schedule included mangal arati (morning worship) from 4:30 to 5:30 am after which we would begin walking and would have breakfast at 9:00 am. After breakfast we walked to the next holy site, take darsana, have lunch, rest and end the day with a lecture. Continue reading "Pandharpur Parikrama 2017
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Mirror, mirror on the wall.
Vaisesika Dasa: When I was a child, my parents occasionally took my brother and me to the Fun House, an amusement park located at Ocean Beach in San Francisco. One of the attractions was a hallway full of mirrors specially designed to distort one’s image. One mirror made even obese people look as skinny as a post; another made skinny people appear to be as fat as a Hippopotamus.
At the Fun House, people absorbed in viewing their own grotesque, distorted images sometimes laughed and sometimes grimaced.
All this was in the name of fun. However, one who identifies with one’s material body is constantly affected by misplaced emotions due to an inaccurate view of his or her true self.

As spiritual sparks we have nothing to do with our material bodies, but because of an artificial affinity for and identification with our temporary gross and subtle material bodies, we see ourselves as something we’re not and suffer as a result.

Mahaprabhu compares the mind to a mirror. When the mirror is clean, it reflects one’s true image as a pure spiritual being. When the mirror is dirty or misaligned however, one sees an inaccurate image of one’s real self and labors unnecessarily under this misconception.

Maitreya Muni tells his disciple Vidura: “The living entity is in distress regarding his self-identity. He has no factual background, like a man who dreams that he sees his head cut off.” (SB 3.7.10)

Interestingly, the suffering a man undergoes when he sees his head cut off in a dream is real even though the situation is temporary and is superfluous to the soul’s real position.

Guru, sadhu and sastra all invite one to wake up from the bad dream of material life.

Maitreya says that when a man awakens from a bad dream, his miseries are vanquished. Similarly, he says, a man who awakens to his true identity as an eternal soul - part and parcel of Krishna, the Supreme Soul - he becomes free from all woes and re-enters his life of blissful devotional service to God.

One should take seriously to the process of bhakti yoga to wake up from the bad dream of material life and become thus become truly happy.

Maitreya Muni: “But that misconception of self-identity can be diminished gradually by the mercy of the Personality of Godhead, Vasudeva, through the process of devotional service to the Lord in the mode of detachment.” (SB 3.7.12)

Mahaprabhu says that the best process for cleaning the mirror of the heart and attaining a permanent standing in the blissful life of devotional service is Sankirtana, the congregational chanting the holy names of Krishna.

[Evening program at Edison USA]

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Sri Rama Navami - Abhiseka ceremony at Iskcon’s Sri Jagannath Mandir, Seshadripuram, Bangalore (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: If you simply think of Krsna only, then you get a body where by which you can go to Krsna. You can go to Krsna. By going to Krsna, you can talk with Krsna personally. You can play with Krsna personally. You can dance with Krsna. That is Krsna-loka. Just like we have got a picture, rasa dancing going. Here is picture, Krsna’s. Everyone can get this opportunity. Therefore Krsna comes to show practically how enjoyable life with Krsna in Vrndavana. Krsna is simply jolly, anandamayo ‘bhyasat [Vedanta-sutra 1.1.12]. In Vrndavana life you will see, everyone is jolly. The birds, trees and the water, the land, the cows, the calves, the inhabitants, the cowherd boys – everyone is happy simply by loving Krsna. Simply by loving Krsna. So Krsna therefore manifests His lila, that “Why you are rotting in this material world? Come to Me and enjoy life eternally.” That is Krsna business. He is so kind. Yada yada hi dharmasya glanir bhavati bharata [Bg. 4.7]. People, when they become debauch to enjoy life in this material world… What is the enjoyment? The last enjoyment there, sex life. Is that very good enjoyment? But they have accepted. Yan maithunadi-grhamedhi-sukham hi tuccham [SB 7.9.45]. Maithuna means sex intercourse. That is their life and soul. They do not know. They have no information. There is better pleasure, eternal pleasure. That they do not know. Therefore there is need of Krsna consciousness movement to understand that.
From Srila Prabhupada’s lecture on Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.15.32 – December 10, 1973, Los Angeles
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Sri Rama Navami Celebration at ISKCON Salem (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Krsna consciousness, devotional service to Krsna, is the ocean of eternal bliss. In comparison to this eternal bliss, the so-called happiness of society, friendship and love is simply useless and insignificant. One should therefore not be attached to temporary things. One should take to Krsna consciousness and become eternally happy. - Srila Prabhupada’s purport to SB 7.7.46
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By the GBC

Srila Prabhupada did not want devotees to only distribute his books; he often stressed the importance for devotees to study his books both regularly and scrutinizingly: “GBC member means they will see that in every temple these books are very thoroughly being read and discussed and understood and applied in practical life.” (Lecture on Srimad-Bhagavatam 2.9.3, Melbourne, April 5, 1972) Srila Prabhupada wrote to a GBC member: “Your first job should be to make sure that every one of the devotees in your zone of management is reading regularly our literatures and discussing the subject matter seriously from different angles of seeing, and that they are somehow or other absorbing the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness philosophy.” (Letter to Satsvarupa, June 16, 1972) To another member of the GBC, Srila Prabhupada wrote: “[Y]ou all leaders, especially the GBC members, must become very much responsible and do the work that I am doing to the same standard. So I want you leaders especially to become very much absorbed in the philosophy of Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, and become yourselves completely convinced and free from all doubt. On this platform you shall be able to carry on the work satisfactorily, but if there is lack of knowledge, or if there is forgetfulness, everything will be spoiled in time. So especially you must encourage the students to read our books throughout the day as much as possible, and give them all good advice how to understand the books, and inspire them to study the things from every point of view Continue reading "GBC: Strategizing & Leading ISKCON’s Qualitative & Quantitative Growth – Ensuring that Srila Prabhupada’s Books Are Distributed, Studied and Assimilated
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The son of Raghu was Aja, the son of Aja was Dasaratha, and the son of Dasaratha was Lord Ramacandra, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.

When the Lord descended into this world in His full quadruple expansion as Lord Ramacandra, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna – great sages like Valmiki who were actually in knowledge of the Absolute Truth described His transcendental pastimes.

The anniversary of the appearance day of Lord Ramacandra is celebrated in temples and homes throughout the world. His transcendental pastimes have been depicted in dance, drama and film. I had the opportunity to be with the devotees at New Gokula to relish His holy appearance day.

Ram Navmi class at ISKCON. Towaco

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In Navadvipa dhama, in the house of Murari Gupta, who is an incarnation of Sri Hanuman, Sri Ram, Lakshman, Sitadevi along with Hanuman is worshipped. On the appearance day of Lord Ramachandra, devotees visit Murari Gupta’s Sripat, which is very close to yogapith and have darshan. Lord Ramachandra also visited Modadrumadvipa. Here, in Modadrumadvipa is […]

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Every year I make my personal finances public. Attached is an accounting of my finances for 2016.

Jayadvaita Swami 2016 financial report

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Rama gives instruction to all political heads of state.
“My dear brother, a righteous kingdom will surely prosper. Are the brahmanas, demigods and elders being properly respected? Are the women within the kingdom being properly honored and protected? Are disputes being impartially judged? I hope that You avoid the fourteen weaknesses- atheism, hypocrisy, anger, procrastination, laziness, slavery to the senses, contempt for good advice, lack of vigilance, fondness for bad council, impractical planning, inability to keep a secret, attachment to foolish friends, negligence of religious observances, and failure to counteract enemies.”
“Bharata, are you aware of the three kinds of prowess- physical strength, power of authority, and intelligence? Do You avoid the following eight kinds of friends- the deceitful, the reckless, the violent, the envious, the gossiper, the foul-mouthed, the usurper of property, and the unjust?”
“Do You avoid making alliances with these twenty kinds of kings? They are- the child-monarch, the senile, the frail and ill, the over-aggressive, the cowardly, the greedy, the sensualist, the frivolous, those who were defeated in battle, who have been overthrown, who frequently travel abroad, who have many enemies, who are poverty-stricken, who are opposed to religious principles, who are despised by their ministers, and who are mentally disturbed?”
“I hope that You prefer to keep the company of one learned man rather than thousands of ignorant fools. A single talented minister can give one immense benefit, whereas in times of necessity, thousands of fools are of no use.”
“Bharata, if a King does not get rid of a physician who is simply adept at aggravating a disease, a servant who in intent upon bringing disgrace upon his master, or a warrior who wants to become the ruler himself, then he will surely be killed by these three.”
“Are the women protected and honored by You, and are they pacified with regards to their material demands? I hope that You do not place too much faith in women or confide Your secrets to them.”
Valmiki Ramayana/Ayodhya kanda

Obeisances to Sri Rama, the Giver of happiness, Obeisances to Sri Rama, the Auspicious One, Obeisances to Sri Rama, who is as lustrous as the moon

By the GBC

Srila Prabhupada also indicated that spiritual knowledge be formally tested as a requirement for serving as diksa-guru and that the GBC establish this and other examination processes in ISKCON: “Another examination will be held sometimes in 1971 . . . One who will pass this examination will be awarded with the title of Bhaktivedanta. I want that all of my spiritual sons and daughters will inherit this title of Bhaktivedanta, so that the family transcendental diploma will continue through the generations. Those possessing the title of Bhaktivedanta will be allowed to initiate disciples.” (Letter to Hamsaduta, January 3, 1969) Years later, Srila Prabhupada wrote about the necessity of having different certifications for other positions as well: “Shortly we shall be introducing the system of examinations for those students who are ready for second initiation as well as sannyasa.” (Letter to Satsvarupa, January 5, 1976) Five days after writing this letter, Srila Prabhupada indicated that it would be the GBC’s duty to fine-tune the examination system: “I have also suggested for the GBC’s consideration, that we introduce a system of examinations for the devotees to 10 take. Sometimes there is criticism that our men are not sufficiently learned, especially the brahmanas. Of course second initiation does not depend upon passing an examination. How one has moulded his life – chanting, attending arati, etc., these are essential. Still, brahmana means pandita. Therefore I am suggesting examinations.” (Letter to Svarupa Damodara, January 10, 1976) And next month he wrote: “As far as the Bhakti-sastri and other examinations are concerned, that we will discuss at the GBC meeting.” (Letter to Nitai, January 24, 1976) Continue reading "GBC: Establishing Prerequisites & Oversight for Spiritual Leadership – Protecting ISKCON’s Assets & Ensuring Legal and Financial Compliance
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By Bhakti Charu Swami

The original Personality of Godhead is Krsna, and He manifests Himself in different forms. One such manifestation is Lord Ramacandra. When Krsna appeared in His original form He acted as the Supreme Personality of Godhead, whereas when He appeared as Rama He acted as the ideal king. In fact, the pastimes of Lord Rama display ideals in many ways. Lord Rama appeared as the son of King Dasaratha, and Dasaratha acted as the ideal father and king. Rama acted as the ideal son and later, after He was coronated, as the ideal ruler. Rama’s brother Laksmana acted as the ideal brother, and Rama’s wife, Sita, acted as the ideal wife. Because Lord Rama acted as the ideal human, He is called maryadha-purusottama. Continue reading "Rama Navami greeting from GBC Chair
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Preaching program in Taichung, Taipei, Taiwan (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: Yes, as a Sannyasi and GBC your first duty is to read my books. Otherwise how will you preach? In order to remain steadily fixed in Krishna consciousness there must be a sound philosophical understanding. Otherwise it will become only sentiment. Whenever you find time please read my books. -From Srila Prabhupada’s letter to Satsvarupa – Nellore 5 January, 1976
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By Radhanath Swami

*Always stand by the Right*: Jatayu’s integrity. Real success is to please the Lord. Jatayu lost his life fighting for Lord Ram but achieved the purpose of Life to please the Lord. It is better to lose & win than to win & lose. *Patience, Determination & Enthusiasm*: Example of Shabari. Long time ago, Guru had asked her to wait for Lord Ram while all other disciples and Guru himself went back to Godhead. She showed her enthusiasm by working hard everyday to clean the place, plucking flowers & fruits for the Lord. She had complete faith in the words of Guru and patiently waited with determination. Continue reading "25 Life Lessons from Ramayana
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Jaya Sri Rama! "Lord Ramacandra is the ideal king for maintaining and protecting the highest culture of humanity, known as brahma?ya-dharma. The Lord is specifically the protector of the cows and the brahma?as, and hence He enhances the prosperity of the world. Through the agency of Visvamitra He was rewarded by the administrative demigods with effective weapons to conquer the demons." (SB 1.12.19, purport)

Giriraj Swami: Blissful, Beautiful, Compassionate Rama . . . “Although the sight of Lord Ramacandra is naturally blissful, when He is with His beloved Janaki, with Laksmana, and with His best servant Hanuman, His beauty increases manyfold, and whoever sees Him becomes immersed in the most exceptional ecstasy. This picture of Lord Ramacandra together with Sita, Laksmana, and Hanuman depicts the Supreme Lord in His especially compassionate mood.” (Sri Brhad-bhagavatamrta 2.4.259 commentary) We pray for their loving, compassionate glance.