ISKCON Rohini – Vrindavan Yatra for 2016 Batch on 25 & 26…
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ISKCON Rohini - Vrindavan Yatra for 2016 Batch on 25 & 26 March 2017 (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: You mention you like to speak now very often, but the first business should be to preach to the devotees. It is better to maintain a devotee than to try to convince others to become devotees. It is the duty of the GBC to maintain the devotees, keep them in the highest standard of Krishna Consciousness, and give them all good instruction, and let them go out and preach for making more devotees. 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. If they are fully educated in our philosophy and if they can get all of the knowledge and study it from every viewpoint, then very easily they will perform tapasya or renunciation and that will be their advancement in Krishna Consciousness. So first thing is to instruct all of your temple presidents and the other devotees to read daily, just as we have done in our morning class in Los Angeles. You may remember that we were reading one sloka each morning in Sanskrit and reciting it altogether and then discussing it thoroughly by seeing different new things. So you introduce this system and train the devotees first. Don’t be too much concerned for the time being with nondevotees, now we must fix-up what devotees we have got in the knowledge of Krishna Consciousness, then we will succeed. What good are many, many devotees if none of them are knowledgeable?
Find them here: https://goo.gl/4ZPnDm

Escaping a Dark Future
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Escaping a Dark Future …
Giriraj Swami: On Srila Prabhupada’s morning walk on November 16, 1975, I told him about a recent interview with a scientist who had said, “We don’t know where the ingredients came from, but we’re sure that there’s …”
“Then why do you talk nonsense?” Prabhupada challenged the scientist. “You do not know. Then what is the use of talking nonsense? You do not know from where these ingredients have come. Our answer is—Krishna reveals—aham sarvasya prabhavo mattah sarvam pravartate: ‘The ingredients come from Me.’”

How A Mormon Spring Break Ritual Came To Include A Whole Lot Of “Hare Krishna, Hare Rama”
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Hare KrishnaBy Spencer Dew

Last year, for the twentieth anniversary of the festival, 80,000 people were reportedly in attendance, with that crowd estimated to be about 90% Mormon. The festival in Spanish Fork has spawned a series of smaller events in other cities run by a travelling team from the Utah temple and has also given birth to the popular “Color Run” phenomenon, employing the same kind of powdered, cornstarch-based colors, and the same spirit of carnivalesque engagement in “sharing love.” Mormon festival-goers are led in chanting Sanskrit mantras and instructed in the metaphysical ramifications of such chanting. They are lectured on vegetarianism, on the true nature of knowledge and reality and the self, and invited to participate in the burning in effigy of a demonic “witch.” They will throw “colors” made from biodegradable powder that billows out as great plumes, and they will smear and smack and rub such colors on fellow festival-goers, with whom they will dance and whom they will frequently be enjoined to hug—all expressions of love, explicitly interpreted by the organizers as manifestations of the ultimate model of love, Krishna. Continue reading "How A Mormon Spring Break Ritual Came To Include A Whole Lot Of “Hare Krishna, Hare Rama”
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Image Of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir Or ISKCON Temple? Fake News Busted
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Hare KrishnaBy Jency Jacob

Is this the image of the proposed Ram Mandir temple at Ayodhya? Yes, if certain images posted on social media – Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp are to be believed. The image showing a magnificent structure has been doing the rounds on Twitter and Facebook since the last two years. Continue reading "Image Of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir Or ISKCON Temple? Fake News Busted
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Global Duties & Responsibilities of the GBC – Executing Srila Prabhupada’s Will
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Hare KrishnaBy the GBC

This document describes the collective service of the Governing Body Commission of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. The listed functions derive primarily from Srila Prabhupada’s direct instructions. Some details have been shaped, however, by insights gained over decades of observation and experience. The GBC members collaborate to fulfill their various global responsibilities and individually contribute according to their capacity, area of expertise, personal inclination, and specific requirements. It is not expected that every member will display excellence in every aspect; at the same time, absorption in and loyalty to the core elements of Srila Prabhupada’s mood and mission are expected from every GBC member. In fulfilling its mandate, the Body shall involve as many qualified assistants as necessary to accomplish its duties, organizing them in as many offices, ministries, and departments as required. Continue reading "Global Duties & Responsibilities of the GBC – Executing Srila Prabhupada’s Will
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External miracles don’t change us – internal choices do
→ The Spiritual Scientist

(Bhagavatam class at ISKCON, Boston, USA)

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The post External miracles don’t change us – internal choices do appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

The transcendental dimension
→ KKSBlog

(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 20 June 2009, Japa Talks)

In spiritual life there is always the transcendental dimension – the dimension of auspiciousness, of purification, of eternal benefit and of getting more and more mercy of Krsna. Sometimes we like the material side in spiritual life more – the temple, a festival, the cheese in the subji or devotees who are our friends and at other times we may find spiritual life to be a big austerity. Sometimes we may like to chant and at other times, it is a struggle but whatever it may be, the spiritual dimension is always there in spiritual life and that makes it all worthwhile!

The Walking Monk 2017-03-30 21:51:00
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Monday, March 27th, 2017
Miami, Florida


Stick to Walking


I’ll stick to walking, I thought, when I saw this one devotee climb his way up the coconut tree.

Prabhupada Krpa is a Cuban-born bachelor who is quite the committed follower of Krishna.  He’s lanky, thin and agile.  It’s a cinch for him to get up a tree, grab a coconut, toss it down and then, with grace, shimmy his way down the tree trunk; all that, while in a dhoti—and with a smile.  He’s got the body for it.

He can climb any tree.  I’ve seen it.  He will tackle the tall, erect ones, or even a very bent over one.  Coconut water is one of the best ways of quenching a thirst.  It’s a super hydration food.  It’s nutritious but low in purine content.  They are the best of the nuts.

Whenever I come to Miami, Prabhupada Krpa, who knows my liking for these organic pieces of circular wonder, offers to fetch one for me.  I prefer the younger green ones.

The coconut tree is not plentiful on the ISKCON plot of land off Virginia Street in Coconut Grove, but they do cast a certain amount of shade.  There’s at least one large mango tree on the property, but I’m not usually here during mango season in the summer to enjoy it.  I usually stay clear of visits to Florida at that time.  It’s too hot and humid.

I know that a monk should be ready to take to any form of austerity, but I find I’m less productive under such circumstances.  It’s great to be in Canada at that time of year.  You’re not sluggish.  One thing about being a monastic is that you are also obliged to use your good sense.

May the Source be with you!


5 km

The Walking Monk 2017-03-30 21:50:00
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Saturday, March 25th, 2017
Miami, Florida


Troubled


I covered 3 km, pacing in Toronto’s temple room, before embarking on the flight to Miami on American Airlines.  That was a greater distance to go.  I was in the plane for three and a half hours.  I was quite alert—but troubled.  Most other passengers had their naps, or partial naps.

I had received the sad news that a family of four were found dead in their home in a remote village that I visit.  Saranagati is a quaint little settlement of a Krishna community, nestled in a mountain valley situated a day’s walk (30km) from Ashcroft, British Columbia.  It is tragic.

Father, Mother, and two small sons, who were not active members of the social events of the community, were nevertheless members of the community.  The dad, Harvey, I had known since the early ’80s when he lived in Ontario.  He was quite the artist.  At this time, it is not known the cause of death.

A member of the community went with his son to check on the family. They found them dead and called my dear godbrother, Krpanidhi, who went over to the home and, as a trained first aid responder, realized there was no hope of reviving them, as it was too late.  He called the police. Whatever is the cause, it is a very impactful loss to the local residents, and to humanity.  Authorities are investigating.

The great Queen Kunti, whom we read about in the scriptures, said that calamities are all around us.  When they come, they hasten us to search for answers and to come to submission to the Source of all.  When the overwhelming powers of this world come to haunt us, we ask for help.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends who survive this tragedy.  Our blessings go to the souls who departed.  Have a safe journey.

May the Source be with you!

3 km


Editor’s Note: It has been determined that the cause of death was due to Carbon Monoxide poisoning from a plugged water heater vent which had filled with snow. 

The Walking Monk 2017-03-30 21:50:00
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Sunday, March 26th, 2017
Miami, Florida


Cool in Miami


Both last night and tonight’s sangas were held, one at the Sraddha Centre and one at the home of Kavi, a godbrother.  The kirtansand dance were so uplifting.  I thank Puneet, who’s visiting from Pennsylvania, for the funky drum beats, and I must not fail to mention the usual pervading Latino rhythm and drive that made for the ultimate good fun feeling.

Wallace Teng—a student from China, residing in Denver—found out about the Hare Krishnas and made his destiny Miami, where he could find out more.  He asked about our core beliefs.  My answer:  Each and every one of us is a tiny spark of life, struggling, and in this struggle we are obliged to find our peace which rests in bhakti, devotion to God.  It’s the real love we are after.

Diana and her friend whose name I forget—let’s call her ‘Princess’—came for their first Krishna gathering ever.  Our dance circle engaged them, along with everything else.  It was a great workout and an equally great bonding.

Smack in the middle of our two evening programs was the Sunday feast program at the temple in Coconut Grove.  I’m seeing for the first time Russians in good number and young Indian folks, also in good attendance.  The verse to which I elaborated upon was Chapter 16 Verse 22 from TheGita.

“The person who has escaped these three gates of hell (lust, anger and greed), O son of Kunti, performs acts conducive to self-realization and thus gradually attains the supreme destination.”

May the Source be with you!


4 km

Answering an interesting question for those disillusioned with iskcon but want to attend iskcon events
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So I was asked a very interesting question the other day, it had a recurring theme that I’ve heard put in many different ways and also one that for me has the basic answer of reciprocation

The question is:

Why do we keep going back to iskcon events. Even though we know there is deep rooted sexism abuse and cover up?

Yes sadly not an uncommon experience the combination of corporate ISKCON and a few individuals who take advantage of a spiritual movement and abuse positions of power, some also question the whole paid courses stating mission drift.

So when such feelings are their and justified individually leaving a bitter taste their remains a need of association or just a need to feel a part of a significant event celebration (although the last event i personally attended was somewhat ruined by the constant bombardment for laxmi, it is not attractive); wholesome reciprocation is all that is needed.

For me it is time to enjoy talking to very sincere devotees about the particular pastime and exchange ideas and thoughts on reaching out to those we meet, simple discrimination means we choose those who enliven us and inspire us in increasing our love of devotion.

But their is something more significant, the presiding deities the special connection we make and actually how Sri Krishna demonstrates the most perfect form of reciprocation, he heard us chant Hare Krishna and that simply reignited our love; no matter what happens because of this purity of love we return simple to take darshan and by doing so this purity of love is simply increased no matter what else we experience.

And I’ve met over the years individuals and families who only come once or twice a year just to see the deities and in a loving exchange give a little something just because of the purity of love felt.

So that for me is the reason why we keep on coming back, it’s not ISKCON but the deities and a simple need of the soul to see them.

Who you whilst their choose to associate with well that comes down to discrimination, choose wisely

Hare Krishna

Devotees Invited to Refresh and Renew at Reimagined Festival of Inspiration
→ New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit

By Madhava Smullen for ISKCON New Vrindaban Communications

One of the first of the retreat-style festivals currently so popular in ISKCON, Festival of Inspiration, launched in New Vrindaban in 2000, has always offered something a little unique.

Now, in its 17th year, with the tagline “Rethink. Refresh. Renew,” FOI is again taking a fresh approach, offering an exciting new inspirational experience based on feedback from devotees about what they like.

“Whereas previous Festival of Inspirations were a high-speed puzzle of eighteen different short presentations you could choose from, we now plan to offer people an immersive experience that they can dive into and experience together,” says ISKCON New Vrindaban temple president Jaya Krsna Das. “We also want to provide them with practical tips they can implement in their day-to-day lives.”

So in this year’s FOI, running from May 12th to 14th, devotees will get to choose the seminar that interests them most out of three in-depth offerings, each lasting ten hours over three days.

In “Dig In!” members of ECO-Vrindaban, New Vrindaban’s simple-living branch, will guide attendees on an interactive journey from Lord Krishna’s garden and goshala to His plate. Devotees will learn how to grow, cook, and preserve food. They’ll take a tour of ECO-Vrindaban’s gardens, study seasonal foods and how to cook them; learn strategies for building soil, increasing plant fertility, and weed control; and construct a simple compost pile.

In the milking barn, they’ll get to brush and milk the cows, make yogurt, and churn butter. They’ll also get a practical lesson in how to make ghee the original, medicinal way.

“Dig In! will be an experience unique to New Vrindaban, but will also give you knowledge you’ll be able to take home and actually utilize, for instance in creating an urban garden for yourself or your temple,” says Jaya Krsna.

For those more interested in personal development, there’s “The Inner View” with Srila Prabhupada disciple Urmila Devi Dasi, which will take an honest look at real life challenges in parenting, marriage and more from a Krishna conscious perspective. Urmila will also explore questions like, “Always thinking of Krishna? Is it possible amidst the realities of my life?” “How can all the aspects of my life energize me spiritually?” And “Can there be quality sadhana, worship, and quality time with Krishna in a distracted life filled with so much to do?”

With hands-on small group work like journaling and discussion, the seminar aims to see participants leave with solutions and strategies for their individual situations.

Finally, for those who are eager to dive into the scriptures, there’s “The Ten Subject Matters of Srimad-Bhagavatam” with Bhakti Charu Swami. In this seminar, Maharaja will explore the ten principal topics of the Bhagavatam, which cover all aspects of knowledge important to human beings. He’ll also look at how these topics are not dealt with one after another in the great work but can be found throughout all twelve cantos.

Besides the in-depth seminars, there will be five plenary sessions that will not be held alongside anything else, so that all festivalgoers will get to participate in them together.

Legendary kirtaniya Agnideva Das will discuss the mood and inner meaning of Srila Prabhupada’s Prayers to the Lotus Feet of Lord Krishna, written aboard the Jaladuta. Along with all the devotees, Agnideva will also sing the bhajan, which is the title track on his new album.

In “Preaching in Everyday Life, Our Real Business” inspirational book distributor Vaisesika Das will talk about how the sankirtana movement was Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Srila Prabhupada’s entire focus, and how important it is that we continue to carry it out. He’ll also share practical advice about how to distribute books and how we can all find space to preach in our busy regular lives.

In “Mahabharata & Our Life’s Journey: A Storytelling Workshop,” award-winning storyteller Sankirtana Das will talk about the importance of oral tradition in society, explore the heroes of the Mahabharata and and discuss how we can all find the inner hero within us.

As New Vrindaban is the only temple in North America with a full-size Lord Nrsimhadeva Deity, devotees will rush to Bhaktimarga Swami’s plenary, where they’ll get the rare chance to experience a dramatic recitation of the Nrsimha Kavacha along with a Nrsimha yajna, in front of the ferocious Lord Himself.

Last but certainly not least, one of Srila Prabhupada’s seniormost disciples, Malati Devi Dasi, will lead a sanga in which dozens of Prabhupada disciples will share their heartfelt memories of ISKCON’s Founder-Acharya, and how he inspired them.

For every hour that their parents are attending these uplifting and edifying seminars, children aged 5 to 13 will also get a complete program, included free with festival registration. Led by teachers Sri Tulasi-Manjari and Olivia Browning Snider, this hands-on-learning adventure will be the first ever FOI Kids’ Camp with a New Vrindaban farm life theme. Activities will include art, cooking, gardening, building, games, sports and, of course, caring for the cows.

Missing off the schedule for the past few years, Festival of Inspiration’s famous entertainment will be back too. The family friendly show, which will accommodate and involve children, will feature energetic dance troups, musical performances by Mangalananda (Michael Cassidy) and Yamini, The Juggernauts with Gaura Vani and Visvambhar, and Kirtan Premi; the drama Puri by Bhaktimarga Swami; and storytelling by Sankirtan.

Throughout the whole festival, there will also be regular kirtan under the yajnashala, and more time for devotees to simply hang out, chat, and enjoy each other’s association.

And of course, there will be three meals a day of Festival of Inspiration’s famously delicious prasadam. Embracing the simple lifestyle Srila Prabhupada’s envisioned for New Vrindaban, only dairy from New Vrindaban’s own protected cows will be used, and locally-grown produce will be used as much as possible. There will also be lots of vegan options.

“We’d like devotees to feel like New Vrindaban is their home away from home, a farm retreat from their city temples,” says Jaya Krsna. “And we hope they’ll leave Festival of Inspiration feeling completely refreshed and renewed.”

REGISTRATION

Website: http://www.festivalofinspiration.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nvfestivalofinspiration/

Phone: 304 843 1600 Extension 111

Email: Palacelodge108@gmail.com

Cost: $200 per person

This includes accommodation for 3 nights(Thursday through Saturday), 9 sumptuous prasadam meals, kirtans, plenaries, and seminars and free parking! Kids age 5 or under can attend free of charge provided they share a bed with a parent. New adVentures Camp is free for all children, however pre-registration is mandatory.

ISKCON celebrates Ramanujacarya in his 1,000th year
→ The Vaishnava Voice

ramanuja_srirangam

The international governing body of ISKCON, the GBC, has issued the following resolution to all its centres in this millenium year of Sri Ramanujacarya:

310: Global Observance of Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi

Whereas Sri Ramanujacarya, the great Vaisnava saint who lived between 1017 and 1137, requires no introduction to the saintly, especially the Vaisnavas;

Whereas Sri Ramanujacarya’s 1000th anniversary is being celebrated around the world this year, 2017. According to the Sri Vaishnava calendar, his 1000th appearance day is on May 1, 2017;

Whereas although 1000 years have passed since the appearance of Sri Ramanujacarya, the years have not dulled the level of adherence to his teachings and attraction to his exemplary life. Millions of people now base their spiritual practices and religious conceptions on his words in both southern India, and due to emigration, in the western world also. In many parts of the world, ISKCON is associated very strongly with the Sri Vaisnavas;

Whereas our Gaudiya Acaryas including Srila Jiva Goswami, Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura have all referenced and commented on the teachings and life of Sri Ramanuja;

Whereas Srila Prabhupada used Sri Ramanuja`s works, amongst others, to give us the “Bhagavad-Gita As It Is”;

Whereas ISKCON Sriperumbudur and Kanchipuram are organizing grand celebrations this March in which international devotees, sannyasis, and leaders are participating in the 10 day festival at Sriperumbudur, the birth place of Acarya Sri Ramanuja;

Whereas following in the tradition of our acaryas, it would be a great opportunity for ISKCON to get the mercy of Sri Ramanujacarya, and to enhance our already good relationships with the Sri Vaishnava community globally, by having a “Global Observance” throughout the year, or particularly leading up to May 1, 2017;

RESOLVED:

That ISKCON centers worldwide have a “Global Observance of Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi”, leading up to May 1, 2017, or anytime through the year 2017, with suitable events and glorification befitting the venerable and worshipable Vaisnava Acarya.


The spiritual potency of Prabhupada’s books! Mohanasini…
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The spiritual potency of Prabhupada’s books!
Mohanasini Devi Dasi: This beautiful lady gets the award for most inspirational! Last week she emailed me, “I met you today on a street in New Orleans and you gave me a book that is verifying so many of my beliefs that no one around me understands. I just felt the need to tell you to keep up your work. God speaks through your actions and you are so needed for the work that you are doing. Thank you for reaching out to me today, I am already marking pages in the book while I am at the airport to fly home.” A little later she added, “I am in the process of publishing a second book with information that reflects what is said in the book you gave me. It amazes me to see how the God of Gods uses us all to educate on this planet. I will send a picture for your site and I am honored to be a part of your mission.” Then today I got this picture from her, “Keep up the good work and know the universe is watching with light, love and healing for all on this planet through you.” This totally inspired me to keep distributing Srila Prabhupada’s books, knowing there are so many out there just waiting for this mercy!

Environmental Award Given To Toronto Iskcon Temple! (Album with…
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Environmental Award Given To Toronto Iskcon Temple! (Album with photos)
On Saturday, March 11, 2017, Faith and the Common Good hosted their Annual Forum at the University of Toronto’s Multi-Faith Centre. The theme of the Annual Forum was, “Exploring the Future of Sacred Space: The Practical and Spiritual”. Various informative presentations were given and our temple also had a chance to present a recent Farmer’s Market project that we undertook.
Later during the event, our temple was announced as the winner of the 2016 Greening Sacred Spaces Award. We were selected as winners for: (1) re insulating and installing a new roof on our building, (2) changing the majority of the light bulbs in our building to LED lights, and (3) hosting a mini-farmer’s market for the neighbours.
Our Krsna Fun School (Sunday School) also hosted a member of Faith and the Common Good who taught our children about the importance of living in a way that respects Mother Earth!
Find them here: https://goo.gl/DZhrud

Temple Profile: ISKCON Netrakona, Bangladesh By Nila Kamal…
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Temple Profile: ISKCON Netrakona, Bangladesh
By Nila Kamal das
Name: Sri Sri Jagannath Vallabha Mandir
Address: Netrakona, Bangladesh. 20.8823147
Website: www.iskconnetrakona.org
Presiding Deities: Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra, Gour Nitai and Radha Govinda.
Temple Management: Jay Ram das, Anantadev das and Tulsi das.
When did it open? The official opening of the temple was on the 2nd of January 2016.
Location: Netrakona is located in the Northern part of Bangladesh near the Meghalaya border. The population here is around 70% Hindu whilst the rest are Muslim.
Known for: It’s hard working brahmacari ashram. There is also a wonderful training system in the brahmacari ashram in which the senior devotees mentor the other devotees with their spiritual insights and exemplary behaviour and etiquette.
Number of residents: 26 full time saffron brahmacaris.
Number of visitors: 10 to 15 on weekdays. 100 on Fridays and Sundays and up to 4000 on festival days.
Best time to visit: Ratha Yatra (July), it attracts near to 4000 individuals from all around Bangladesh.
HH Subhag Swami sent three of his brahmacari disciples in 2010 to go to Netrakona. From there they rented a small place and started preaching. They organised the first Ratha Yatra in 2011 and it turned out to be a huge success. As the number of congregation devotees increased, the need for a permanent residence for Jagannath was clearly evident. The devotees began looking for land nearby and when Subhag Swami visited Netrakona in 2012, he suggested that the land opposite the preaching centre was suitable.
Local devotees headed by Jay Ram das, Anantadev das and Tulsi das worked extremely hard day and night collecting funds for the land. At times they would eat very meagrely and that too only after returning from completing their daily quota. (It should be noted that these three brahmacaris were based in India for a number of years prior to coming to Bangladesh. They came to a foreign land and that too without a single penny in their pocket.) By Krishna’s mercy, they were able to purchase that land in 2013. After a lot of planning, finally in August 2015 construction started. Resident devotees worked round the clock, with each and every brahmacari helping in the construction work. The grand opening of the temple was set for the 2nd of January 2016, where Netrakona devotees celebrated the 50th anniversary of ISKCON and the 75th Vyasa Puja of Subhag Swami. The opening of the temple attracted near to 3000 devotees from all over Bangladesh.
Now Sri Sri Jagannath Vallabha Mandir is a fully fledged ISKCON temple with devotees from across India and Bangladesh visiting regularly. The brahmacaris are actively preaching in college and universities and they visit on a weekly basis several Nama Hattas locally.

A year full of celebrations for ISKCON50 in Germany
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Hare KrishnaBy Hemanga Gopal Dasa

18 April 2016 ISKCON50 Presentation at the Interreligious Forum (IFH) ISKCON Hamburg Bhakti Yoga Zentrum 2 17-22 May 2016 Narasimha Caturdasi Festival ISKCON Jandelsbrunn Simhachalam 3 25 June 2016 Participation at Parade of Cultures Downtown Frankfurt 4 01 July 2016 Prabhupada Tirtha Schloss Rettershof - Memories and Activities Romantikhotel Schloss Rettershof 5 17 July 2016 Srila Prabhupada’s Tirthas in Hamburg ISKCON Hamburg Bhakti Yoga Zentrum 6 17 July 2016 Special ISKCON50 Celebration ISKCON Vienna 7 30 July 2016 Ratha Yatra Berlin ISKCON Berlin Jagannatha Tempel 8 20 +21 August 2016 Ratha Yatra Cologne ISKCON Köln Gauradesh 9 29 October 2016 Interreligious Conference ISKCON Wiesbaden Hari Continue reading "A year full of celebrations for ISKCON50 in Germany
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WSN February 2017 – World Sankirtan Newsletter
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Hare KrishnaBy Vijaya Das

Good news in Vrindavan: Rohininandana Balarama Prabhu distributes books in Srila Prabhupada's Samadhi almost daily, and he recently told me that in the past two years he's collected the contact information of about three hundred people interested in staying in touch with him to learn about Krishna consciousness. So every week he gives two classes to them. Some chant japa. One lady is a pilot flying the Airbus 880 planes. She said, "I was so unhappy before coming in contact with you people and reading these wonderful books, but now I'm so happy." Rohininandana Balarama used to successfully do business in Melbourne. In 2009 he heard about an event that sounded like Bollywood, and being Indian, he checked it out. It was a Hare Krsna program -- Indradyumna Swami's traveling festival. He listened to Indradyumna Swami's lecture, which answered questions that were recently on his mind, and left with a Gita. Up to that point at his job, everyone was working hard, but then his boss told him he could work from home. And to his surprise, the company didn't give him work for three months, but still paid him. He took it as an opportunity to read the Gita. Now he's distributing books in Vrindavan, preaching at colleges in that area, and focusing on his contacts. Continue reading "WSN February 2017 – World Sankirtan Newsletter
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Devotees Invited to Refresh and Renew at Reimagined Festival of Inspiration
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Hare KrishnaBy Madhava Smullen

One of the first of the retreat-style festivals currently so popular in ISKCON, Festival of Inspiration, launched in New Vrindaban in 2000, has always offered something a little unique. Now, in its 17th year, with the tagline “Rethink. Refresh. Renew,” FOI is again taking a fresh approach, offering an exciting new inspirational experience based on feedback from devotees about what they like. “Whereas previous Festival of Inspirations were a high-speed puzzle of eighteen different short presentations you could choose from, we now plan to offer people an immersive experience that they can dive into and experience together,” says ISKCON New Vrindaban temple president Jaya Krsna Das. “We also want to provide them with practical tips they can implement in their day-to-day lives.” Continue reading "Devotees Invited to Refresh and Renew at Reimagined Festival of Inspiration
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ISKCON GBC – Minutes Of The Annual General Meeting – February 2017
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By the GBC

Global Observance of Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi: Whereas Sri Ramanujacarya, the great Vaisnava saint who lived between 1017 and 1137, requires no introduction to the saintly, especially the Vaisnavas; Whereas Sri Ramanujacarya’s 1000th anniversary is being celebrated around the world this year, 2017. According to the Sri Vaishnava calendar, his 1000th appearance day is on May 1, 2017; Whereas although 1000 years have passed since the appearance of Sri Ramanujacarya, the years have not dulled the level of adherence to his teachings and attraction to his exemplary life. Millions of people now base their spiritual practices and religious conceptions on his words in both southern India, and due to emigration, in the western world also. In many parts of the world, ISKCON is associated very strongly with the Sri Vaisnavas; Whereas our Gaudiya Acaryas including Srila Jiva Goswami, Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura and Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura have all referenced and commented on the teachings and life of Sri Ramanuja; Whereas Srila Prabhupada used Sri Ramanuja`s works, amongst others, to give us the "Bhagavad-Gita As It Is"; Whereas ISKCON Sriperumbudur and Kanchipuram are organizing grand celebrations this March in which international devotees, sannyasis, and leaders are participating in the 10 day festival at Sriperumbudur, the birth place of Acarya Sri Ramanuja; Whereas following in the tradition of our acaryas, it would be a great opportunity for ISKCON to get the mercy of Sri Ramanujacarya, and to enhance our already good relationships with the Sri Vaishnava community globally, by having a "Global Observance" throughout the year, or particularly leading up to May 1, 2017; RESOLVED: That ISKCON centers worldwide have a "Global Observance of Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi", leading up to May 1, 2017, or anytime through the year 2017, with suitable events and glorification befitting the venerable and worshipable Vaisnava Acarya. Continue reading "ISKCON GBC – Minutes Of The Annual General Meeting – February 2017
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Is there any reference to the subconscious mind in the Vedic literature?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Anwser Podcast


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Spirituality in the age of Science (Science – Modern)
→ The Spiritual Scientist

[Online Wednesday feast class for Boston devotees from Seattle]

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Should we see non-philosophical devotees as not needing intellectual conviction or as weak because of intellectual malnourishment?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

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The post Should we see non-philosophical devotees as not needing intellectual conviction or as weak because of intellectual malnourishment? appeared first on The Spiritual Scientist.

The Supremely loving one
→ KKSBlog

(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 2009, South Africa, Untitled Lecture)

How is it that the all good, all merciful and kind Supreme Personality of Godhead who is just full of love, who is just the well-wisher and friend of every living being, who cares about every little plant, every little jiva, how is it that the Supreme Lord, the Supreme Controller, has arranged all the varieties of suffering that exist in this world?

This question is very difficult to answer but it is an essential question for us if we want to love Krsna. We have to resolve this question. Otherwise, how can we love Krsna? If deep down in our heart there is any doubt about Krsna being in any way responsible for the suffering in this world, then how will we ever develop love of God?

In this world, the difficulties and the suffering are there for only one reason. Krsna is indeed unlimited and full of love but it is not an impersonal type of love. It is a personal type of love and Krsna, in this mood, cannot wait any longer. How long is it going to take, are you going to come back or not to the spiritual world? It is taking too long!

The Lord can’t wait forever and ever for us to just stay here in the material world, life-after-life, whilst eternally fallen and still not turning around! It takes too long, thus he has built into the material world some mechanism of suffering to bring us to our senses and make us turn back to him.

Dhanaraj, Balaraj and Ananda
→ Servant of the Servant

Once upon a time there lived a king in Benaras with 3 sons named Dhanaraj, Balaraj and Ananda.

Suddenly one day the king left his body and the kingdom was seized by the minister.

The minister took charge of the kingdom and cheated the 3 prince by giving them a small house to live in a village which was located outside the kingdom.

Now these three began to contemplate on the situation.

The eldest one asked, “What is the finest thing in the world?”

The youngest one said,  “I dont know?”

The middle one Balaraj said, “Power is the finest thing, the minister would not have snatched our kingdom without power.”

The elder prince disagreed saying, “The finest thing in the world is money. With money we can have power also. I will go to China and return with lots of money.”

Prince Balaraj said,  “I will go to Turkey and raise a big army.”

The brothers decided to meet at the same place after 10 yrs .

Years passed by and one fine day a huge army came from one side and a huge caravan full of gold and jewels came from the other.

They were led by Dhanaraj and Balaraj, both the brothers embraced each other.

Dhanaraj told Balaraj, “I am the richest man in the world. I can bribe your soldiers.”

Balaraj proudly said “My soldiers can loot your money.”

They looked out for their younger brother Ananda. He came out from the small house with a young woman and 2 children.

Dhanaraj and Balaraj asked “Did you find the finest thing in the world?”

Ananda said, “Yes. I have found that contentment is the finest thing in the world, without it power and wealth are all useless.”

The brothers suddenly realized that its true, still they wanted to fight the Minister.

Ananda laughed and told that the Minister died years ago and people wanted to make him the king. But he was too contented to leave. So, all their efforts had been in vain.

Here we see that the youngest prince Ananda was happy with whatever he had and thus was living peacefully.

Moral of the story.

If you are happy with whatever you have, i.e. you are content with what you have there is no regrets. Then there is no desire and if there is no desire, you will be peaceful.

Here is the verse from the shastras which says:

santosha trishu kartavyah svadhaare bhojane dhane
santosha trishu na kartavyah svaadhyaah japa dhaanayoh

“One should be always satisfied with these three things:
1) their spouse
2) the food
3) the amount of wealth they obtained.

One should never be satisfied with these three things:

1) the amount of scriptural study
2) the amount of chanting
3) amount of charity they perform

We always want to accumulate wealth for future, want to build a house, take up life insurance policies and what not.

Every one tries to possess more and more. How much ever we endeavor we shall get only that which is in our prarabdha.

Lord is taking care of our needs right from the time we are in our mothers womb. As soon as the child comes out mothers body is filled with milk. Still we try to make all arrangements. This is because we don't have faith in him.

Hare Krishna

5,000 People Gather to Honor Ramanjua Acharya
→ ISKCON News

The ancient city of Madurai visited by pilgrims year-round witnessed a rather unique event on the 26th of March, 2017. More than 5,000 people from different walks of life gathered together in one of Madurai’s biggest outdoor auditoriums, Gandhi Mandapam, eager to celebrate the 1,000th  Anniversary of a Stalwart Saint, Acharya and Guru, Srimad Ramanuja Acharya. ISKCON Madurai, under the inspiration of Jayapataka Swami and leadership of Balaram Govinda Das and Shanka Dari Das Temple President of ISKCON Madurai, organized the grand event.

New VIBe! (Visual Interactive Bhagavad-gita As It Is…
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New VIBe! (Visual Interactive Bhagavad-gita As It Is ebook)
Gaudacandra dasa Adhikari: I am excited to share with the devotee community and abroad the new VIBe!
Replete with over two hundred full-color images, this digital Visual Interactive Bhagavad-gi-ta- As It Is edition is certain to stimulate and enlighten any reader with its ancient yet thoroughly timely teachings. This digital edition comes with: Intro video, a visual table of contents, links to important chapter sections, glossary, appendix, scroll view, the ability to highlight text in different colors, in-margin notes, “my notes” section, chanting section, study cards, search, dictionary, bookmarks, quizzes, links to relevant videos, audio and study links, training videos, full screen, zoomable art galleries, sketch book, correspond with the publisher from within the book, etc. “Glorification of the Gita” added - one of the nine supplemental and inspirational chapters. A true portable “portal” into transcendence when stress hits or not!
To read the entire article click here: https://goo.gl/YDnrud

ISV Harinaam in Paloalto – March 24th 2017 (Album with photos)…
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ISV Harinaam in Paloalto - March 24th 2017 (Album with photos)
Srila Prabhupada: This Krsna consciousness movement is the greatest boon to humanity because it keeps one always engaged in Krsna’s service. The devotees think of Krsna, act for Krsna, eat for Krsna, sleep for Krsna and work for Krsna. Thus everything is engaged in the service of Krsna. A total life in Krsna consciousness saves one from material contamination. Srila Prabhupada; SB 4.30.19 purport
Find them here: https://goo.gl/xfhjIk

And so Britain’s slow exit begins…
→ The Vaishnava Voice

euro

Today is the day Britain begins its two year period of exiting from the European Union, the official beginning of what has been termed ‘Brexit.’ The country is surprisingly divided over our immanent departure from what started out as a trading partnership in 1973, and then gradually became ever more a state of monetary, legal and political union.

Perhaps its because of that creeping amalgamation of Britain into a European super-state, a situation that our forbears didn’t sign up for, that a majority of British people felt uncomfortable and wanted out. It was a slim majority, but a majority nonetheless.

To my American friends: Brexit is nothing like Texit, the idea of Texas leaving the union of the states of America. When your forbears signed documents to create the USA, they knew they were creating a political union – one nation with no national borders between the states. When Britain signed up there was no such agreement.

So today the exit begins.

 


Over 5000 people participated in ISKCON’S celebration of the 1000th Year Anniversary of Srimad Ramanuja Acharya
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Hare KrishnaBy Nanda Priya Nivedita Devi Dasi

The ancient city of Madurai visited by pilgrims year-round witnessed a rather unique event on the 26th March, 2017. More than 5,000 people from different walks of life gathered together in one of Madurai’s biggest outdoor auditoriums, Gandhi Mandapam, eager to celebrate the 1,000th Anniversary of a Stalwart Saint, Acharya and Guru, Srimad Ramanuja Acharya. ISKCON Madurai, under the inspiration of HH Jayapataka Swami and leadership of HG Balaram Govinda Das and HG Shanka Dari Das, Temple President of ISKCON Madurai, organized the grand event.HH Ranga Ramanuja Jeeyar along with many other senior Sri Vaishnava Priests were the guests of honor. Seen along with the guests of honor on the dais was a Murti of Srila Prabhupada, HH Jayapataka Swami , HH Bhakti Purusottama Swami, HH Bhakti Nityananda Swami, HH Bhakti Vinoda Swami and HH Bhakti Mukunda Swami. The event began with an Abhishek to the deity of Ramanuja Acharya. The Jeeyar spoke about the glories of Sri Ramanuja Acharya and his eminent role in spreading Vaishnavism all over the Indian subcontinent and now practically all over the world. He thanked ISKCON for organizing such an extravagant event and was very pleased that the followers of Vaishnavism celebrated the 1000th Anniversary in unison. Continue reading "Over 5000 people participated in ISKCON’S celebration of the 1000th Year Anniversary of Srimad Ramanuja Acharya
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