In Chaitanya Charitamrita, Srila Krishnadas Kaviraj Goswami quotes the following evidence from the diary of Swarupa Damodar to describe the ontological principle of Advaita Acharya:
maha-vishnur jagat-karta mayaya yah srijaty adah
tasyavatara evayam advaitacarya ishvarah
advaitam harinadvaitad acaryam bhakti-shasanat
bhaktavataram isham tam advaitacaryam ashraye
Maha Vishnu is the master of the universe, which He creates through his power of Maya. Advaita Acharya is the incarnation of this form of the Supreme Lord. He is known as Advaita because he is none other than Hari, as Acharya because he is the preceptor of devotion. I take shelter of the Supreme Lord Advaita Acharya who is the Incarnation of a devotee.
When Sri Advaita Acharya manifested in this world, Srila Madhavendra Puri, Sri Ishwar Puri, Sri Sachi Mata and Sri Jagannath Mishra also made their appearances.
Sri Advaita Acharya was a disciple of Srila Madhavendra Puri and forms one of the main figures amongst the Pancatattva – Sri Krishna Chaitanya, Prabhu Nityananda, Sri Advaita, Gadadhar pandit and Srivasa.
Sri Advaita Acharya Prabhu was born in 1434 in Nabagram, Bengal to Sri Kubera Pandit and Srimati Nabha devi. They were originally inhabitants of Nabagram village near Sri Hatta, but later moved to Santipur on the banks of the Ganga.
Sri Advaita Acharya studied the Vedas and other scriptures under a scholar named Santacharya in Phullavati village near Santipura, where He was awarded the title Acharya.
Before the appearance of Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu, all the Vaishnava devotees in the Navadwip area used to gather at the house of Advaita Acharya. In these meetings, Advaita Acharya preached on the basis of the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.
It is said Advaita Acharya prayed fervently to the Lord for several months – He worshipped His shaligram shilas lovingly with sacred Tulasi leaves and Ganges water calling out aloud to the Lord to manifest and show a way to the worldly people to reach the eternal spiritual abode.
By the momentum of his spiritual fervour, his loud cries pierced the coverings of the material universe and echoing through the transcendental Vaikuntha lokas, reached the ears of Sri Krishna in Goloka. Hearing this urgent cry saturated with devotion, Sri Krishna appeared Himself as Sri Krishna Chaitanya in Mayapur, Bengal as the son of Sri Jagannatha Mishra and Saci Devi.
Vasant Pancami by HG Mukunda Datta Prabhu. The British public can't get enough "Hare Krishna"! Srila Prabhupada Lilamrita. Vaishnavis Worldwide: Stories of Service & Devotion. New Bhaktivedanta Eye Hospital at Barsana. Lecture by HG Hansarupa Prabhu - NYC. The Beauty of Krishna. Jambavati's Humility: Lessons from Krishna's Queens. Panihati - On The Bank Of The Ganges. HH Radhanath Swami's Class in ISKCON Prayagraj Continue reading "Celebrating Krishna Consciousness Through Teachings and History, February 3 → Dandavats"
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Today is the appearance day of Srila Raghunatha dasa Gosvami and many other acharyas and associates of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Srila Raghunatha dasa Gosvami was born in a very aristocratic family in Bengal. His father and uncle, Govardhana and Hiranya Mazumdar, were wealthy landlords, or zamindars; they were almost like kings in opulence. But although Raghunatha dasa was their only heir, he had no attraction for material opulence and enjoyment.
The Mazumdars’ family priest was Yadunandana Acharya, a disciple of Advaita Acharya. From the time Raghunatha dasa was a small boy, Yadunandana Acharya and Balarama Acharya, another friend of the Mazumdar family, would call him to sit on their laps. They would instruct him to chant Hare Krishna and tell him about Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. So, from a very young age Raghunatha dasa developed the desire to join Sri Chaitanya. Namacharya Haridasa Thakura also visited Raghunatha dasa’s family, and he too was merciful to Raghunatha dasa.
One day, Raghunatha dasa left home and went to meet Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. “I want to join You,” he told the Lord. But Chaitanya Mahaprabhu replied, “No. Don’t act like a crazy fellow. You should return home and be a good son, an expert businessman, and a proper husband, and then, when the time comes, the Lord Himself will arrange for you to become free from the bondage of family life.”
Lord Chaitanya used the term markata-vairagya. Markata means “monkey,” and vairagya means “renunciation.” Monkeys appear to be very renounced because they live in the jungle, have no clothes or possessions, and eat only fruits and berries. But each monkey has two dozen girlfriends. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was instructing Raghunatha dasa, “Don’t be a monkey renunciant, making a show of renunciation when you still have material desires. Return home and act outwardly as an ordinary young man. And inwardly, develop your Krishna consciousness. Be detached internally and perform your external duties.”
So, on Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s order, Raghunatha dasa returned home. But within his heart he wanted to join Mahaprabhu. Raghunatha dasa’s parents were very worried that Raghunatha dasa, their only son, might leave home. So they kept guards at the gate to make sure he did not run away. One day, Raghunatha dasa got the idea to meet Nityananda Prabhu at Panihati. Once there, being extremely humble, he offered his obeisances from a distance. Lord Nityananda, being very merciful and humorous, said to Raghunatha, “You are just like a thief, staying at a distance. But now that I have captured you, I will punish you. You must make a festival for My associates and Me and feed us all chipped rice, yogurt, bananas, and milk.”
Raghunatha dasa bought all the cida (chipped rice), dadhi (yogurt), dugdha (milk), and fruits and sweets that were available in the market. Preparations were made using chipped rice, yogurt, milk, sugar, and bananas, and there were mangoes, sweets, and other items. Nityananda Prabhu and all the other devotees were very pleased.
When merchants heard about the festival, they came to Panihati to sell their goods. Raghunatha dasa bought all their dadhi, dugdha, bananas, and other items, made them sit down, and fed them the same items he had just purchased. Soon there were so many people that there was no place to sit. People began to sit on the bank of the Ganges, and when all of the space by the Ganges was occupied, they stood in the water and ate their cida-dadhi. At the end of the festival, Nityananda Prabhu was so pleased with Raghunatha dasa that He gave him a blessing.
We shall now read from Sri Caitanya-caritamrta, Antya-lila, Chapter Six: “The Meeting of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Raghunatha dasa Gosvami.”
With the ropes of His causeless mercy, Sri Krsna Caitanya Mahaprabhu employed a trick to deliver Raghunatha dasa Gosvami from the blind well of contemptible family life. He made Raghunatha dasa Gosvami one of His personal associates, placing him under the charge of Svarupa Damodara Gosvami. I offer my obeisances unto Him.
TEXT 138
tabe raghunathe prabhu nikate bolaila tanra mathe pada dhari’ kahite lagila
TRANSLATION
Then, after the conclusion of the festival, Nityananda Prabhu called Raghunatha dasa near Him, placed His lotus feet upon Raghunatha dasa’s head, and began to speak.
TEXT 139
“tumi ye karaila ei pulina-bhojana tomaya krpa kari’ gaura kaila agamana
TRANSLATION
“My dear Raghunatha dasa,” He said, “since you arranged the feast on the bank of the Ganges, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu came here just to show you His mercy.
“Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, Gaurahari, came here personally to deliver you. Now rest assured that all the impediments meant for your bondage are gone.
“Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu will accept you and place you under the charge of His secretary, Svarupa Damodara. You will thus become one of the most confidential internal servants and will attain shelter at the lotus feet of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
TEXT 143
“niscinta hana yaha apana-bhavana acire nirvighne pabe caitanya-carana”
TRANSLATION
“Being assured of all this, return to your own home. Very soon, without impediments, you will attain the shelter of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.”
COMMENT
As directed by Nityananda Prabhu, Raghunatha dasa returned home. Having lost all interest in family affairs, however, he no longer stayed in the inner section of the house, but moved to the outer courtyard. Late one night Yadunandana Acharya, who by then was Raghunatha’s spiritual master, came to him and told him that a disciple who was supposed to worship the Deity had left his service, and he asked Raghunatha to induce that disciple to return. So Raghunatha dasa left the house with Yadunandana Acharya. The watchmen were asleep, and nobody had any fear, because they thought that Raghunatha had gone with Yadunandana Acharya to do some work and would soon return. On their way, Raghunatha told his spiritual master, “I will go to that disciple and induce him to return to his service, so do not be in anxiety. You may return to your place.”
Yadunandana Acharya went home, and Raghunatha dasa thought that now he had an opportunity to escape. After he went to the disciple and sent him to do his service, Raghunatha proceeded toward Jagannatha Puri—not on the public road, because he knew that as soon as his family realized that he was gone, they would send people to catch him and bring him back—but along the interior paths. For twelve days he walked from Bengal to Puri, and on only three of them was he able to eat anything. But he did not mind, because he was absorbed in thoughts of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu—that finally he would be able to join Him in Puri. Raghunatha dasa’s parents sent ten men to find him and bring him back, but they could not trace him.
TEXT 186
bhaksana apeksa nahi, samasta divasa gamana ksudha nahi badhe, caitanya-carana-praptye mana
TRANSLATION
Not caring about eating, he traveled all day. Hunger was not an impediment, for his mind was concentrated upon obtaining the shelter of the lotus feet of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.
TEXT 189
svarupadi-saha gosani achena vasiya hena-kale raghunatha milila asiya
TRANSLATION
When Raghunatha dasa met Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, the Lord was sitting with His companions, headed by Svarupa Damodara.
TEXT 190
anganete dure rahi’ karena pranipata mukunda-datta kahe,—“ei aila raghunatha”
TRANSLATION
Staying at a distant place in the courtyard, he fell down to offer obeisances. Then Mukunda Datta said, “Here is Raghunatha.”
COMMENT
Mukunda Datta had been present when Chaitanya Mahaprabhu sent Raghunatha dasa back home, so he was surprised: “Oh, the same boy has come again. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu advised him to remain at home, so how has he come?”
As soon as Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu heard these words [“Here is Raghunatha”], He immediately welcomed Raghunatha dasa. “Come here,” He said. Raghunatha dasa then clasped the lotus feet of the Lord, but the Lord stood up and embraced him out of His causeless mercy.
COMMENT
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was sitting with His most confidential associates, headed by Svarupa Damodara Gosvami, and they were discussing topics of Krishna. But as soon as Chaitanya Mahaprabhu heard “Raghunatha has come,” His mind was drawn to him. He left everything and stood up and embraced him.
TEXT 192
svarupadi saba bhaktera carana vandila prabhu-krpa dekhi’ sabe alingana kaila
TRANSLATION
Raghunatha dasa offered prayers at the lotus feet of all the devotees, headed by Svarupa Damodara Gosvami. Seeing the special mercy Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu had bestowed upon Raghunatha dasa, they also embraced him.
COMMENT
Raghunatha dasa saw not only Chaitanya Mahaprabhu but also all of Mahaprabhu’s confidential associates. And he offered obeisances at their lotus feet. And seeing how Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was merciful to Raghunatha dasa and had embraced him, they all did the same.
TEXT 193
prabhu kahe,—“krsna-krpa balistha saba haite tomare kadila visaya-vistha-garta haite”
TRANSLATION
Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu said, “The mercy of Lord Krsna is stronger than anything else. Therefore the Lord has delivered you from the ditch of materialistic life, which is like a hole into which people pass stool.”
PURPORT by Srila Prabhupada
According to the law of karma, everyone is destined to suffer or enjoy according to a certain material standard, but the mercy of Lord Krsna is so powerful that the Lord can change all the reactions of one’s past karma, or fruitive activities.
COMMENT
According to our karma, we have to enjoy or suffer. But the Lord’s mercy is so strong that He can free us from any amount of suffering or material enjoyment. He can free us from all karma, whether punya (pious) or papa (sinful). He can lift us out of our material condition and place us on the spiritual platform, where there is no material enjoyment or suffering—only service.
PURPORT (continued)
Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu specifically drew attention to the mercy of Lord Krsna. That mercy is more powerful than anything else, for it had saved Raghunatha dasa from the strong bondage of materialistic life, which the Lord compared to a hole where people pass stool.
COMMENT
The bondage of material life is very strong. And usually, the more one is surrounded by material opulence, the harder it is for one to become free. Therefore, persons who are interested in spiritual life or liberation from material existence do not try to increase their material opulence, because their opulence may keep them bound to material existence. Srila Prabhupada himself told the story of how his father had helped him. When Prabhupada was of the age to be married, there were two proposals: one for him to marry a very beautiful girl and one for him to marry a not-so-pretty girl. Srila Prabhupada’s father advised him, “You should rather marry the plain girl, because later, when the time comes for you to leave family life, it will be easier if your wife is not so beautiful.” Srila Prabhupada took the advice, and in the end—as we know—he left everything to serve the order of his guru maharaja and preach Krishna consciousness. In the West there may be even more problems if the wife is beautiful. There used to be a popular song: “If you want to be happy for the rest of your life / Get an ugly woman to be your wife.” Generally, the more one is surrounded by material opulence, the more one has trouble becoming free. But the mercy of Krishna is so powerful that even though Raghunatha dasa was surrounded by so much opulence (Nityananda Prabhu said that his opulence was like the king of heaven’s), such loving parents, and such a beautiful wife, he had no attachment to any of it. And he left it all to join Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. So, Sri Chaitanya told him, “The mercy of Krishna is so strong that you could leave your material opulence and come here.” And He compared family life to a hole in which people pass stool.
PURPORT (continued)
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu gave His verdict that those addicted to the materialistic way of life are like worms that are living in stool but cannot give it up. A grha-vrata, one who has decided to live in a comfortable home although it is actually miserable, is in a condemned position. Only the mercy of Krsna can save one from such misery. Without Krsna’s mercy, one cannot get out of the filthy entanglement of materialistic life.
COMMENT
The worm lives in stool, eats the stool, and enjoys life. According to Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, materialistic persons who want to enjoy the happiness of family life are like worms who want to enjoy the taste of stool. Of course, pure devotees can also be grihasthas, but here Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is talking about materialistic enjoyment.
PURPORT (concluded)
The poor living entity cannot give up his materialistic position on his own; only when granted the special mercy of Krsna can he give it up. Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu knew very well that Raghunatha dasa was already liberated. Nevertheless He emphasized that Raghunatha dasa’s life of material comfort as a very rich man’s son with a very beautiful wife and many servants to attend him was like a ditch of stool. The Lord thus specifically indicated that ordinary men who are very happy with material comforts and family life are in no better position than worms in stool.
COMMENT
Just see Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s language. But He did not use the same language with everyone. He spoke as He did to Raghunatha dasa because of a special reason, as we shall now read.
TEXT 194
raghunatha mane kahe,—“krsna nahi jani tava krpa kadila ama,—ei ami mani”
TRANSLATION
[Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu had said, “By the mercy of Krsna you have been free from the bondage of household life, which is like a ditch where people pass stool.”] Raghunatha dasa answered within his mind, “I do not know who Krsna is. I simply know that Your mercy, O my Lord, has saved me from my family life.”
TEXT 195
prabhu kahena,—“tomara pita-jyetha dui jane cakravarti-sambandhe hama ‘aja’ kari’ mane
TRANSLATION
The Lord continued, “Your father and his elder brother [Govardhana and Hiranya Majumadara] are both related as brothers to My grandfather [they were of almost the same age and had friendly relations with Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu’s grandfather], Nilambara Cakravarti. Therefore I consider them My grandfathers.
PURPORT
Nilambara Cakravarti, the grandfather of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, was very intimately related to Raghunatha dasa’s father and uncle. Nilambara Cakravarti used to call them his younger brothers because both of them were very devoted to the brahmanas and were very respectable gentlemen. Similarly, they used to call him Dada Cakravarti, addressing him as an elder brother brahmana. Raghunatha dasa, however, was almost the same age as Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Generally a grandchild may joke about his grandfather. Therefore Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu took advantage of the relationship between His grandfather and Raghunatha dasa’s father and uncle to speak in a joking way.
TEXT 196
“cakravartira duhe haya bhratr-rupa dasa ataeva tare ami kari parihasa
TRANSLATION
“Since your father and his elder brother are younger brothers of Nilambara Cakravarti, I may joke about them in this way.
COMMENT
Sometimes we may want to give an instruction to someone but not want the person to take offense. And after we give the instruction, which may involve harsh words, we may say that we were just joking. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was saying, “Don’t mind, because your father and uncle were friends of My grandfather, so they are like My grandfathers. I am only joking by comparing them to worms in stool.” But although He was joking, He also was not.
TEXT 197
“tomara bapa-jyetha—visaya-vistha-gartera kida sukha kari’ mane visaya-visera maha-pida
TRANSLATION
“My dear Raghunatha dasa, your father and his elder brother are just like worms in stool in the ditch of material enjoyment, for the great disease of the poison of material enjoyment is what they consider happiness.
COMMENT
In other words, they are in such a diseased condition that the thing that is actually poison—sense gratification—they take as nectar.
PURPORT
When a man is attached to material enjoyment, he is attached to many miserable conditions, but nevertheless he accepts his condemned position as one of happiness.
COMMENT
This is maya, illusion. He is suffering, but he thinks he is enjoying.
PURPORT (concluded)
Sense enjoyment is so strong for such a person that he cannot give it up, exactly as a worm in stool cannot give up the stool. From the spiritual point of view, when a person is too absorbed in material enjoyment, he is exactly like a worm in stool. Although such a position is utterly miserable to the eyes of liberated souls, the materialistic enjoyer is greatly attached to it.
COMMENT
Liberated souls can see that the poor man is in a miserable condition, but the materialistic person is attached to his condition and cannot leave it. Srila Prabhupada had a disciple named Sudama Vipra, who was a rough character, a former member of the Hell’s Angels motorcycle gang. Once, when Srila Prabhupada arrived at a train station, maybe in Delhi, many people gathered around. The devotees performed kirtan, and Sudama Vipra began to preach. He said that before he came to India, he had thought that India was a very holy, spiritual place where everyone was inclined to spiritual life, and that he had expected to see beautiful mountains, forests, and rivers, and people engaged in spiritual consciousness. But when he had actually come to India, to the cities, he had seen that people were wretched, living in filth, poverty, and misery; he had also seen many lame people, deformed people, and lepers, all suffering. He said, “To the eyes of a pure devotee like Srila Prabhupada, all of us look just like those wretched people—poor, filthy, diseased, and miserable in so many ways. A pure devotee like Srila Prabhupada sees all of us like them, and naturally he feels compassion.” And at the end of the talk, Srila Prabhupada remarked, “He has spoken very nicely.” Here Srila Prabhupada says something similar in relation to how Chaitanya Mahaprabhu saw Raghunatha dasa’s father and uncle, who lived in great material opulence—how such a position is utterly miserable to the eyes of liberated souls but the materialistic enjoyer is greatly attached to it.
TEXT 198
“yadyadi brahmanya kare brahmanera sahaya suddha-vaisnava’ nahe, haye ‘vaisnavera praya’
TRANSLATION
“Although your father and uncle are charitable to brahmanas and greatly help them, they are nevertheless not pure Vaisnavas. However, they are almost like Vaisnavas.
COMMENT
Raghunatha dasa’s father and uncle were kind to devotees and brahmans. They used to practically maintain the whole brahman community of Bengal, and they were friendly with such exalted devotees as Balarama Acharya, Yadunandana Acharya, and Haridasa Thakura. But because they still desired to enjoy material life, they are not considered pure devotees, suddha-vaisnavas. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu calls them vaisnavera praya, which means they are “like Vaishnavas,” or “almost Vaishnavas.” Pure devotional service is without any desire other than to serve Krishna (anyabhilasita-sunyam). It is not covered by fruitive work, impersonal speculation, or anything else (jnana-karmady-anavrtam). So, they were not pure devotees. They performed pious deeds and religious activities, but their aim was to enjoy material life.
As devotees, we also may be surrounded by material things, and because of habit we may not be able to serve enthusiastically without them. Srila Prabhupada gave the example of a famous barrister C. R. Das, who gave up everything to join India’s freedom movement. But he was so used to a high standard of living that he could not do without it—and within one year he died. He could not live as a mendicant. So, if one prematurely tries to renounce his material situation, he may become disturbed—or even die. Thus Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu generally advised, sthane sthitah sruti-gatam: Remain in your position and hear the messages of Krishna from the mouths of pure devotees; then you can gradually advance.
Here, because Raghunatha dasa was a liberated soul, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was speaking to him in a way befitting an advanced Vaishnava—although earlier He had advised him to return home.
PURPORT
As stated by Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura in his Amrta-pravaha-bhasya [his commentary on Sri Caitanya-caritamrta], some people, usually very rich men, dress like Vaisnavas and give charity to brahmanas. They are also attached to Deity worship, but because of their attachment to material enjoyment, they cannot be pure Vaisnavas. Anyabhilasita-sunyam jnana-karmady-anavrtam. The pure Vaisnava has no desire for material enjoyment. That is the basic qualification of a pure Vaisnava. There are men, especially rich men, who regularly worship the Deity, give charity to brahmanas, and are pious in every respect, but they cannot be pure Vaisnavas. Despite their outward show of Vaisnavism and charity, their inner desire is to enjoy a higher standard of material life.
COMMENT
In the West, we have little experience of persons who actually follow the principles of Vaishnavism but desire to enjoy material facilities. When I first came to India and met such persons, I became somewhat confused. There was one man who owned a textile mill—a follower of Vallabhacharya. He was very pious, very charitable, and he invited me to his house. So, I went to visit him, on Carmichael Road. He had a very nice temple room, and as a follower of Vallabhacharya he worshipped Bala Krishna—there was so much paraphernalia for the worship. He was also one of the trustees of the Vallabhacharya temple in Bombay, so he wanted me to visit the temple, and I accompanied him there. Many grihastha bhaktas were singing bhajanas in the temple, and it was very opulent. I was confused, because they seemed to be following everything—they were vegetarian, followed all the rules and regulations for worshipping the Deity, and gave money in charity—but still there was something different about them. So, I was a bit confused. But now we can understand: although they were religious and charitable, they still had the desire to enjoy material opulence; they were not pure devotees.
PURPORT (concluded)
Raghunatha dasa’s father, Govardhana, and uncle, Hiranya dasa, were both very charitable to brahmanas. Indeed, the brahmanas from the Gaudiya district were practically dependent on them. Thus they were accepted as very pious gentlemen. However, they presented themselves as Vaisnavas to the eyes of people in general, although from a purely spiritual point of view they were ordinary human beings, not pure Vaisnavas. In other words, they were kanistha-adhikaris, for they were ignorant of higher Vaisnava regulative principles. Nevertheless, they could not be called visayis, or blind materialistic enjoyers.
COMMENT
They were not pure devotees, but at the same time they were not blind materialistic enjoyers. They were in-between. So they are called vaisnava-praya, bhakta-praya, or kanistha-adhikari. They were on the material platform, because they wanted material enjoyment, but at the same time they had faith in Krishna and Vaishnavas, and they worshipped Krishna and served Vaishnavas. So they were vaisnava-praya.
TEXT 199
“tathapi visayera svabhava—kare maha-andha sei karma karaya, yate haya bhava-bandha
TRANSLATION
“Those who are attached to materialistic life and are blind to spiritual life must act in such a way that they are bound to repeated birth and death by the actions and reactions of their activities.
PURPORT
As clearly stated in the Bhagavad-gita (3.9), yajnarthat karmano ’nyatra loko ’yam karma-bandhanah: if one does not act as a pure devotee, whatever acts he performs will produce reactions of fruitive bondage (karma-bandhanah). In Srimad-Bhagavatam it is said:
nunam pramattah kurute vikarma yad indriya-pritaya aprnoti na sadhu manye yata atmano ’yam asann api klesada asa dehah
“A materialistic person, madly engaged in activities for sense enjoyment, does not know that he is entangling himself in repeated birth and death and that his body, although temporary, is full of miseries.” (SB 5.5.4)
A visayi, a person blindly caught in a web of materialistic life, remains in the cycle of birth and death perpetually. Such a person cannot understand how to execute pure devotional service, and therefore he acts as a karmi, jnani, yogi, or something else, according to his desire, but he does not know that the activities of karma, jnana, and yoga simply bind one to the cycle of birth and death.
COMMENT
In other words, without bhakti no one can be liberated. Not even a yogi or a jnani, what to speak of a karmi, can be liberated without the mercy of a devotee, without the touch of devotional service.
“By His own free will, Lord Krsna has delivered you from such a condemned materialistic life. Therefore the glories of Lord Krsna’s causeless mercy cannot be expressed.”
PURPORT
In the Brahma-samhita (5.54) it is said, karmani nirdahati kintu ca bhakti-bhajam. Lord Krsna is so merciful that He can stop the reactions of karma for His devotee. Everyone—from the small insect called indra-gopa up to Indra, the king of heaven—is bound by the reactions of fruitive activities.
yas tv indra-gopam atha vendram aho sva-karma- bandhanurupa-phala-bhajanam atanoti karmani nirdahati kintu ca bhakti-bhajam govindam adi-purusam tam aham bhajami
Everyone, whether an insect or the king of heaven, Indra, is entangled and bound by the actions and reactions of his karma. However, when one becomes a pure devotee, free from material desires and from bondage to karma, jnana, and yoga, one is freed from material actions and reactions by the causeless mercy of Krsna. One cannot express sufficient gratitude to Krsna for being freed from the materialistic way of life.
COMMENT
Raghunatha dasa Gosvami is the ideal example for us to follow. When he was a householder, he showed the ideal example of how to live in household life, how to execute one’s duty perfectly and at ` same time be detached from material enjoyment and attached to Krishna. Later, after he joined Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, he showed the ideal example of renounced life. He hardly ate or slept, and he was always engaged in chanting the holy names, offering obeisances, and other such activities. So, he is a rare example of a devotee who set the ideal standard for both grihasthas and sannyasis.
We pray for his mercy.
Srila Raghunatha dasa Gosvami ki jaya! Srila Prabhupada ki jaya!
[A talk by Giriraj Swami on Srila Raghunatha dasa Gosvami’s appearance day, February 4, 1996, Juhu, Mumbai]
The video discusses Srila Prabhupada’s first initiation ceremony in New York, marking a historic moment for ISKCON. It details how early disciples learned Vedic rituals, chanted for the first time, and handcrafted their own prayer beads. It also covers the first ISKCON marriage and Prabhupada’s meticulous cooking for the event. His teachings on purity, devotion, Read More...
The TOVP Team is pleased to provide the schedule for the historic Grand Opening of the A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Legacy Museum on February 18. All devotees are invited to attend this auspicious occasion glorifying ISKCON Founder-Acharya His Divine Grace A.C, Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada either personally or online on Mayapur TV or the TOVP YouTube Channel.
The museum will be developed in three phases: Phase 1 will be 1000 sq. ft., Phase 2 will expand to 6000 sq. ft., and in its fully developed Phase 3 the project will be a remarkable, state-of-the-art, world-class museum of 21,000 sq. ft., the largest of its kind for any spiritual leader in history.
Grand Opening Schedule
February 18, 2025
4:30pm – Procession bringing Srila Prabhupada to the museum
5:00pm – Srila Prabhupada welcome arati
5:20pm – Opening of the museum with lamp lighting
5:30pm – Speeches by senior ISKCON leaders and devotees
7:30pm – Prasadam / Devotees can begin viewing the museum
View, download and share the schedule:
Download the A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Legacy Museum schedule.
View the A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Legacy Museum schedule online.
He who was King Satrajit in Krishna lila was Sanatan Mishra in Chaitanya lila. The mother of the universe, the incarnation of the Lord’s bhu-sakti, is his daughter Vishnupriya. (Gaura-ganoddesa-dipika 47)
Krishna married Satyabhama, the daughter of King Satrajit and a Yadu princess. In Gaura lila, this same Satrajit became Sanatan Mishra and she became Vishnupriya Devi. All manifestations of Vishnu tattva have three energies, known as Sri, Bhu and Nila (or Lila).
Lakshmipriya Devi is the sri-sakti of Mahaprabhu in his majestic Gaura-Narayan attitude; Vishnupriya is his bhu-sakti and Nabadwip Dham is his lila-sakti. Srila Gadadhara Pandit Goswami is the sakti of Gaura-Krishna, or Mahaprabhu in the mood of Krishna.
Knowledge is of two kinds, apara vidya or material knowledge, and para vidya, or transcendental knowledge. Vishnupriya Devi is the personification of transcendental knowledge. Devotees worship her on her appearance day on the sukla pa cami of the month of Magh.
Vishnupriya Devi’s grandfather was Durga Das Mishra. Some people believe that Durga Das was Vishnupriya’s father. In the Prema-vilasa, the family of Durga Das Mishra’s descendants through Yadavacharya is known as Vishnupriya’s parivara.
From her early childhood, Vishnupriya Devi was always devoted to her parents and to Vishnu, taking her bath in the Ganges three times daily. She regularly saw mother Sachi there, paying obeisances and being blessed by her. In this way, Sachi already knew Vishnupriya’s good qualities, and so was happy to agree to accept her as a wife for her son.
Buddhimanta Khan was a rich and wise friend of Nimai’s family who volunteered to bear the entire expense of his marriage. Once it had been decided that Vishnupriya and Vishvambhara would be married, an auspicious day and moment were fixed for the ceremony. With great pomp, the adhivasa rituals were carried out on the eve of the marriage.
The Lord arrived at Sanatan Mishra’s house in a palanquin at dusk and Gaura and Vishnupriya’s wedding ceremony was performed according to both scriptural and popular traditions. On the following day, Vishnupriya joined her new husband on the palanquin and returned with him to his house.
When Mahaprabhu left home to go to Katwa and take sannyas, he was only 24 years old. Lochan Das Thakur has described Vishnupriya’s terrible feelings of separation in the days that followed his departure in the Chaitanya Mangala.
Every day Srinivas would come to see her. He observed her daily activities, which are beyond description. She had completely renounced sleep, and if ever she closed her eyes, it would be while lying on the bare ground. Her bodily luster, which had formerly glowed more brilliantly than gold, had become dull and she was as thin as the waning moon on its fourteenth day.
She set aside grains of rice to count the Holy Names she chanted, and would cook only this rice and offer it to her Lord. Of this amount, she would only eat a small portion. No one understood how she could remain alive.
Sri Vamsivadana Thakur and Ishan Thakur were blessed by the service of taking care of Vishnupriya Devi and Sachi Devi after Mahaprabhu took sannyas.
The Glory of The Holy Names. Discovering Pure Devotion. Book Distribution Program at Michigan's Largest Mall. Krishna House Releases Inspiring New Video. Sri Advaita Acarya - Appearance. Vasant Panchami. Free Write Journal. In Touch With Eternity (Almost). Chanting with Feelings. How Studying Science Strengthened My Faith. Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura. Meditating on the most benevolent smile of Lord Sri Hari. The pure mode of goodness. King Chitraketu's Journey Continue reading "Spreading Joy Through Devotion and Spiritual Awakening, February 2 → Dandavats"
The video features a discourse at ISKCON Dallas, discussing King Chitraketu’s spiritual journey from material desires to enlightenment through suffering. The speaker reflects on devotion, the role of deities, and personal growth in Krishna consciousness. Topics include self-realization, the significance of distress in turning to God, and the balance between material support and true devotion Read More...
Translation O Lord, You are the Supreme Personality of Godhead and are worshipable by universal prayers, Vedic hymns and sacrificial ingredients. We offer our obeisances unto You. You can be realized by the pure mind freed from all visible and invisible material contamination. We offer our respectful obeisances to You as the supreme spiritual master Read More...
Hare Krishna Devotees!Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! On Tuesday, February 4th, we will be celebrating Advaita Acharya’s appearance day! Please join us at the temple on this special day for the program at 4 pm. We will have space blocked off for all the devotees so that everyone can gather […]
Nandan Acharya Bhavan Kartik Yatra 2024. ISKCON Chowpatty. Devotional service in different modes. Welcome to Mahakumbh Mela! Draupadi's Inquiry: A Lesson in Devotion. Why Devotion Surpasses Knowledge. The Power of Surrender. Prayer for the Victims of the Washington, D. C. Airplane Crash. Devotion, Knowledge, and Liberation. Class on Bhagavad Gita. Stop Harming Yourself. "If your heart is always crying for God, that is perfect religion." Mayapur Mellows Continue reading "Transforming Lives Through Love and Spiritual Wisdom, February 1 → Dandavats"
The video discusses the deep connection between devotees and Krishna, emphasizing separation and reciprocation. It explores how Krishna’s presence alleviates suffering and how the false ego and mind create barriers to devotion. The speaker shares personal insights on managing the mind, intuition, and maintaining a heartfelt relationship with Krishna through chanting, surrender, and self-awareness. Read More...
HH Yadunandana Swami Maharaja discusses Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 3.5.47, emphasizing the superiority of devotional service over impersonal realization. He highlights the joy of bhakti, Krishna’s care for devotees, and the importance of surrender. Through examples from scripture, he explains detachment, transcendental pleasure, and overcoming material suffering through sincere devotion. Read More...
HH Trivikrama Swami Maharaj discusses Bhagavad Gita 10.8, emphasizing Krishna as the Supreme source of everything. He highlights Srila Prabhupada’s humility, devotion, and impact in spreading Krishna consciousness worldwide. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates Prabhupada’s deep faith, simplicity, and mission. He encourages devotion, humility, and consistent chanting of Krishna’s name. Read More...
Vraj Bihari Dasa discusses Srimad Bhagavatam 10.83.5-7, where Draupadi asks Krishna’s wives how they married Him. He highlights the power of meaningful questions, curiosity, and deep spiritual inquiry. The session explores humility, devotion, and the role of sincere questioning in spiritual growth, drawing parallels with everyday experiences and philosophical insights. Read More...
HH SB Keshav Swami discusses Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam Canto 4, highlighting devotional service in different modes—ignorance, passion, and goodness. He explains how King Pṛthu’s birth and markings signify his divine role. He critiques false incarnations, emphasizing scriptural validation. He also reflects on modern attempts to control and enjoy the world, urging surrender to Krishna. Read More...
By Krishna Kripa Das (Week 4: January 22–28, 2025)
Gainesville, Alachua, and Tampa (Sent from Tallahassee, Florida, on February 1, 2025)
Where I Went and What I Did
I spent the first three days of the fourth week of 2025 in Gainesville, chanting Hare Krishna at Krishna Lunch at the University of Florida because Florida State University was closed due to snow in Tallahassee.
The next five days I was in Tampa, attending the Gasparilla harinama and Ratha-yatra the first day and promoting our Bhakti Yoga Society at USF for four days. The last day I attended the Bhakti Yoga Society meeting and led the kirtan and gave the talk. I describe that last day in Tampa in this journal although strictly speaking it was the first day of the fifth week because I want to finish up talking about my Tampa visit in this issue.
I share lots of quotes from the books, lectures, conversations, and letters of Srila Prabhupada, many I read in Bhakti Vikasa Swami’s soon-to-be-published book on the mood and mission of Srila Prabhupada. I share a quote from a BTGby Satsvarupa Dasa Goswami. I also share notes on classes in Alachua and Gainesville by Bhaktimarga Swami and others in Gainesville by Sruti Sagara and Rasika Siromani Prabhus.
Many, many thanks to Subala Gopala Prabhu and his family for the accommodation, transportation, nutrition, and donation in Tampa. Thanks to Bhakta Bill for his ride home after the USF program. Thanks to J.R. for driving us to Tampa for the Gasparilla harinama. Thanks to Madhvacarya Prabhu for driving me to Krishna House from Alachua so I could more easily chant daily at Krishna Lunch. Thanks to John for driving me to the Bhaktimarga Swami program in Alachua.
Itinerary
January 6–April: Tallahassee harinama and FSU college outreach – March 9–16: Krishna House Gainesville harinama and UF college outreach
While she was singing, I began to dance. Then others decided it was OK to dance, and they began dancing too! I took a break from dancing to take this video (https://youtu.be/RmXmaxFXGcI):
Chanting Hare Krishna in Tampa
This gentleman greeted me with a jovial “Hare Krishna” in a gas station on the way to Tampa. His parents had a shop in Gainesville, and Swami Krishnapada (Bhakti Tirtha Swami) once gave them a signed copy of one of his Spiritual Warrior books.
J.R. chants Hare Krishna in Tampa before the Gasparilla Parade, and many people dance (https://youtu.be/tzG7cLfXoGE):
While I was chanting Hare Krishna with three Alachua devotees before the Gasparilla parade in Tampa, at least three students recognized me from chanting behind the main library at FSU, although it is over 4 hours away by car!
Other FSU students recognized me as I was walking from the harinama to the Ratha-yatra cart in the parade line up. Thus I was able to distribute four invitations to Krishna Lunch at FSU even in Tampa! One student said to a friend, “I love that guy!”
On my forty-minute walk between where I chanted with the Alachua devotees and where the Ratha-yatra was set up, I passed this building which was called “Covent of the Holy Names.”
As I passed the building again in the Ratha-yatra procession, I saw this sign over its entrance.
Devotees chant Hare Krishna, and Nate dances with a pirate in Gasparilla Ratha-yatra (https://youtu.be/ln2H4d0HNTg):
Onlookers enjoy dancing from a distance to the Hare Krishna chant at Gasparilla Ratha-yatra (https://youtu.be/_dfrGTS7cMk):
Cheerleaders and band volunteers of East Bay High School dance to the Hare Krishna chant at the Gasparilla Ratha-yatra (https://youtu.be/iu0JQhYYCzI):
Bhadra Prabhu chants Hare Krishna in Gasparilla Ratha-yatra, and onlookers go wild (https://youtu.be/RCjsoRobDWA):
Bhadra Prabhu chants Hare Krishna in Gasparilla Ratha-yatra and encourages onlookers to chant (https://youtu.be/C7TK_ErPTuE):
After Bhadra Prabhu finished leading, a devotee youth chanted Hare Krishna to the cheering Gasparilla crowd (https://youtu.be/lLmeoLeBPqs):
After the Gasparilla Ratha-yatra on Saturday, I spent Sunday through Wednesday chanting Hare Krishna at University of South Florida (USF). I encouraged 23 students to register for our Bhakti Yoga Society there and gave 17 of them books of Srila Prabhupada. Here are some experiences:
Kautilya of Delhi came up to me asking, “Were you singing a bhajan?” He was once of six students who expressed interest in our Bhakti Yoga Society at USF that day, and he took this video (https://youtube.com/shorts/Uxhgsf8hqcY):
I met a young woman named Dvani who was happy to encounter Hare Krishna on the campus. She was happy to hear of the student club and attended our meeting. Her family goes to Janmastami in Alachua every year. I encouraged her to attend Gaura-purnima there this year as that day, Thursday, March 13, is in the middle of the USF spring break.
I was happy that Vivasvan Prabhu spontaneously stopped by to visit for an hour or so. I had chanted by myself for eleven hours at USF, and it was great to hear the chanting of someone else, especially someone who has been chanting Hare Krishna for over 50 years and who has faith in Srila Prabhupada.
Vivasvan Prabhu said he was in Srila Prabhupada’s presence when he heard Praghosa Prabhu chanting this four-part tune and that Srila Prabhupada liked it (https://youtube.com/shorts/LCtdOQbuVaU):
Thanks to the Indian student who spontaneously made the above video and signed up for the Bhakti Yoga Society at USF.
The USF program went well. There must have been at least fifteen students there. There were people from last semester and new people. I talked to at least two new people. They both had a good time and planned to return. Rayn was there to enthusiastically play the drum, and we did a fifteen minute kirtan, which most everyone participated in. The yoga teacher stayed for the kirtan and the brief talk. Upendra Prabhu offered free Gitas to those who wanted them after.
An old time Bhakta Bill enrolled in USF, because it is free if you are over sixty, and he has an apartment four minutes by car from the student center which he shares with two Vietnamese students. He has known the devotees since the late 1970s when he and his high school friend Brhadsloka Prabhu skipped classes to wash pots for Vishnu Gada Prabhu, the head cook at the New York temple on 55th Street. He wants to do some preaching with the end of his life. He kindly drove me home to Subala Gopala Prabhu’s place after the program as Vaishnava seva.
While staying at Subala Gopala Prabhu’s home, I maintained my program of having an evening kirtan of the Gaura Arati song, ten minutes of Hare Krishna, and the Nrsimhadeva prayers. Many of the members of his family participated, and I hope they can continue that. I always try to encourage people to sing for their Gaura Nitai deities. The Lord is so easily pleased in this age simply by the congregational chanting of His holy names!
Insights
Srila Prabhupada:
From Sri Caitanya-caritamrita, Adi 9.50, purport:
“The members of ISKCON must increase this movement more and more, according to the principles that we are presently trying to execute. Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, thus being pleased, will smilingly glance upon them, bestowing His favor, and the movement will be successful.”
From Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.11.20, purport:
“Expert players in drama, dancers, singers, speakers, etc., are required for the spiritual enlightenment of the common man.”
From Science of Self-Realization, Chapter 6:
“Our mission is to bring these rascals to their senses. Now one must find out the means to do this. The rascals are suffering, but because they are sons of God they should not suffer. They do not know that there is God or that there is happiness. They know nothing of bliss or of eternal life. They are carrying on so much research and living for fifty, sixty, or seventy years. After that they do not know what is going to happen. They have no knowledge that life is eternal. Actually their position is like that of an animal. An animal does not know what is after death, nor does he actually contemplate death. He does not know why he is here, nor does he know the value of life. Under the influence of maya, the animal simply goes on eating, sleeping, defending, mating, and dying. That’s all. People are endeavoring so hard, but for what purpose? They say that they are struggling so hard to make provisions for the next generation, but what are the provisions for? They cannot reply to that. This Krishna consciousness movement is meant to give real purpose to life by establishing Krishna, God, as the center of everything. It is therefore to the scientist’s benefit to understand this important movement.”
From a conversation in Indore on December 5, 1970:
“Our mission is very grave and it should be [en]act[ed] sincerely and then we get power from Krishna. If we act sincerely as representative[s] of Krishna then we will feel His power.”
From a lecture on Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.15.28 in Los Angeles on December 6, 1973:
“As soon as we revive our Krishna consciousness, our deep relationship with Krishna as servant, as friend, as paternal relationship or conjugal love, that is already there.”
From a remembrance of Yogesvara Prabhu on Prabhupada Memories, Volume 58:
“Unless you’re following the basics, where is the question of a deeper relationship with the spiritual master?”
From a conversation with Benedictine monk Pater Emmanuel in Germany on June 22, 1974:
“If you love me, you cannot disobey me. And if you disobey me, that love is not real love.”
From a letter to Polly C. Perlmutter on June 10, 1977:
“I am struggling against so many odds. But my mission is to save the human society. That is my only aim and there are no personal motives. If I can save one person, I shall think my mission successful.”
From a room conversation in Bombay on April 10, 1977:
“Everyone is astonished. Without any help, I started. [My] only asset was sincer[ity]. Everyone knows it. Otherwise how it is possible?”
From a letter to Rudra and Radhika on February 20, 1972:
“When one becomes fixed-up in devotional service he never allows anyone else or any condition at all to hamper his service to Krishna or discourage him in any way.”
From a letter to Tamal Krishna on December 28, 1974:
“This is our philosophy; anandambuddhi vardhanam. It means to expand or to increase.”
From a letter to the GBCs on May 19, 1976:
“Over the past ten years I have given the framework and now we have become more than the British Empire. Even the British Empire was not as expansive as we. They had only a portion of the world, and we have not completed expanding. We must expand more and more unlimitedly.”
From a letter to Bhagavan on December 10, 1971:
“I have just received intimation from Rupanuga of a very large festival he is planning for Central Park. I want that many such festivals should be held in every city. I have one suggestion, that on Sundays you make a tent in that backyard garden to accommodate many guests and provide profuse prasada to all.”
From a letter to Nevatiaji on July 16, 1970:
“We are gradually increasing the size of major festivals and eventually there will be twenty-four or two each month. The public response is always very encouraging.”
From a letter to Jadurani on July 15, 1969:
“Regarding Festivals in Boston, you may hold as many as possible. If you can hold such festivals daily, that is also nice. Our movement is for ananda, simply bliss, and the method of pushing this movement is chanting, dancing, feasting and philosophizing. So in our almanac there are many festivals in every month. I am enclosing some festivals which were already held in Los Angeles, and if you perform them, I will give you a long list of others. But don't embarrass yourself at present with greater plans than you can handle. The more you get devotees the more you will be able to perform nice festivals.”
From a letter to Tamal Krishna on August 8, 1973:
“Observe many festivals, that will keep both public and devotees alive. Temple means festivals and Festivals means chanting and distribution of Prasadam.”
“You may organize your traveling party on the lines of a festival which moves from city to city, and if there is a good field, a camp may be set up and you may carry on with our Hare Krishna Festival as long as there is a good response. In this way, you may move from country to country as the weather permits. And you can equip yourselves to be completely self-sufficient – sleeping, cooking, everything.”
From a letter to Madhudvisa on February 14, 1970:
“Wherever Ratha-yatra is performed is not different from the spiritual sky.”
From a Ratha-yatra address and press conference in San Francisco on July 5, 1970:
“If you participate in these car festivals, as it is stated in the scriptures, rathe ca vamanam drstva punar janma na vidyate: if you kindly see these Jagannatha deities riding on these cars and in procession, and as Caitanya Mahaprabhu chanted the Hare Krishna mantra in front of this car, then according to our Vedic scripture, if you participate in this festival, in your next life you’ll go back to home, back to Godhead.”
From a letter to Nayanabhirama on December 22, 1971:
“I am especially pleased to hear that our Krishna conscious drama program is being developed by you nicely. We have got unlimited stock for such dramas, so go on in this way, improving more and more, and Krishna will give you direction so that one day, very soon, all your dreams will come true and you will be acting our Krishna conscious dramas on Broadway.”
Letter to Krishna Dasa on October 8, 1969:
“It is Krishna’s Grace that the walls for the advertisements may be properly utilized so the passengers in the trains can see it. You write if possible the following words: ‘We request you to chant HARE KRISHNA HARE KRISHNA, KRISHNA KRISHNA HARE HARE, HARE RAMA HARE RAMA, RAMA RAMA HARE HARE, and your life will be sublime.’ The mantra may be written in big letters, and the other words in smaller letters. Another slogan may be ‘Join the Krishna Consciousness Movement. It is peaceful, and it will bring peace and prosperity to everyone.’”
Satsvarupa Dasa Goswami:
From “Secretary to a Pure Devotee” in Back to Godhead, #68, 1974:
“Hyderabad, India. April 19
“At the press conference in Hyderabad one reporter asked right away whether Śrīla Prabhupada was an advaita (monistic) or dvaita (dualist) philosopher. Śrīla Prabhupada scoffed at the question. ‘What is the point of discussing such things—whether one is dvaita or advaita. Krishna says, annad bhavanti bhutani: “All living beings subsist on food grains.” Annad means grains. The people have no grains. Grains are produced from rain, and the rain from yajña (sacrifice). So perform yajña. Become Krishna conscious. Dvaita or advaita you may be, but you still need grains.’”
Bhaktimarga Swami:
From a class on Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.10.6 at Krishna House:
Yudhisthira is one of the most celebrated people in Mahabharata. Everyone loves Yudhisthira because he was piety personified and dharma personified.
Krishna writes the script and arranges all the actors.
Although Krishna promised not to fight, he did strategize on behalf of the Pandavas.
Leaders were trained in Vedic times, which is different from today.
Even Krishna and Balarama went to school and accepted training although They did not need to learn anything, because They wanted to show an example to the people in general.
If you cannot be a leader, at least be a follower.
They have a saying in Canada, “Lead, follow, or get out of the way.”
We tend to focus on how we were neglected by our parents, but we have to change that. Instead think how they benefited us.
I learned from both my biological father and Srila Prabhupada to be positive and upbeat.
We have two choices, to be upbeat or to be beat up. It is our choice.
On New Year’s, people gather in hopes of having a good time, but the real joy comes when they dance with the Hare Krishnas.
Srila Prabhupada showed us how to party nicely.
How did Srila Prabhupada benefit the world? [Contributions by the audience.] He popularized vegetarianism. He changed the lives of the people. He translated Srimad-Bhagavatam. He taught we are not the body and rejected racism. He built a house in which the whole can live peacefully. He helped to balance being nonsectarian and yet having an actual standard of spiritual practice. He taught devotional arts. He taught a new way of life. He taught the extent to which love of Godhead can be developed, the rasas, the spiritiual emotions, the personality of Krishna. [by me] He gave us halava. He gave everything to give us everything. He taught by dedicating everything to executing the instruction of his teacher. He kept the siddhanta while engaging according to time, place, and circumstance. He taught to think big. He gave the four ashrams, prasadam distribution, and equal opportunity of engagement for women.
Satyahit is such a hit!
The body will fail, but for now maintain it nicely and engage it in Krishna’s service.
We have a Bhakti Academy Toronto like this Krishna House there.
My favorite books are those about Srila Prabhupada. For me they are better than the Srimad-Bhagavatam, the Mahabharata, and the Ramayana all put together.
The philosophy that Srila Prabhupada produced no exemplary disciples is an insult to him, and it has to go.
Varnasrama helps people to feel they are part of something greater.
Comment by Rati Manjari Devi Dasi: I am in my sixties, and Prabhupada taught us we can still contribute a lot even in our old age.
From a home program in Alachua:
I believe keeping busy solves a lot of problems.
We raised money for the church building which became the Toronto temple by selling lollipops. We told Srila Prabhupada they were made of sugar and syrup, and he said we could offer them.
If you walk in the morning, your health will be better.
Srila Prabhupada welcomed everyone.
People are not always ready to hear about your guru so I would tell people I was walking for the community or for myself.
I was initiated by mail. Because I was named John, I thought I would get the name Janardana or something. I was wondering why he called me Bhaktimarga [the path of devotion]. Once when I had walked for miles sharing devotional service, it occurred to me: that is why. Srila Prabhupada knew me so well.
When I walked in America, I would stay in the Patel hotels. They would offer a room and even offer to cook for me.
Q: How to keep it simple? A: Walk every day. Don’t be lazy. Do something for yourself, and you will be doing something for others too. I also recommend starting gardens. Play ball in the water. See how long you can keep the ball up without it falling in.
Start the days with reflections on Krishna and ask for His mercy.
Krishna is giving you so much energy. Think how you can best use it.
Comment by Premananda Gaura Prabhu: When I wake up, I shout, “I am alive!”
Q: What to do when you have a creative block? A: It is good to have a mentor. Mentors may point you in the right direction.
Q: Where to get daily enthusiasm? A: Early morning connecting with Krishna.
There is something in Srila Prabhupada’s contribution of Krishna consciousness for everyone.
Q: How to take Krishna to work? A: Pack prasadam for lunch. Instead of having a cigarette break, take a japa break.
From the Krishna House Friday program:
Krishna consciousness is not so interesting to people because it does not make money, but it does give you happiness.
Material pleasure is cheap. Easy come. Easy go.
Too much futurism is like when you have your head in the clouds.
Friedrich Nietzsche said, “All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.”
You are successful when performing a drama if you can get the rasa, the feeling, out there to the audience.
The Krishna book and its revealing that you may be able to play with God was an early Krishna conscious attraction for me.
I started my marathon walks during 1996, the Prabhupada centenary year. I wanted to see the world for what it was, the real organic way, like a sannyasi or a sage is supposed to.
People would ask what I was doing, and I would say, “I am walking across the country for the spiritual healing of the nation. The world is sick.” Sometimes people would say, “You better believe it.”
That people are going into schools and killing innocent children is one of the most objectionable things going on these days, and we are not doing enough to stop it.
Everything starts with small talk, and then it goes deeper.
Sometimes people would want to talk because there is a lot of loneliness out there.
In this age of advanced communication, our communication skills are actually going down.
Srila Prabhupada just wanted to make sure we had some ananda, spiritual pleasure, in our lives.
Once someone asked why I walked and I replied, “I do this walk every day so I can be of service to My lord and His servants.”
I met an American native for the first time about half way across the USA, and I told him that. He replied, “Well, you are the first monk that I have ever met!”
For centuries art was used to express religious themes, then people reacted against that, and now mundane art has become the standard.
Dwelling on the negative is tamo-guna.
My body will die, but I will live on. That is progressive, and we have to highlight that.
Bhakti can be formal and rigid, but it does not have to be. That is not how Srila Prabhupada presented to us.
Friday night most everyone else is getting drunk, but we have found a positive alternative.
They say that knees and hips are the first things to go when the body ages.
Putting clay on your poison ivy and letting it dry will cure it overnight.
Q: What is the secret to your perpetual joy? A: I do have grave thoughts during the day, but when I am with people I am happy.
Pop culture puts the worst people on a pedestal, people who should not be followed.
Utah was my favorite state. The people are more spiritual. They are further apart. You can see the stars there.
Pop music is mostly rajas and tamas, nothing elevated. It knocks you down.
Q: What would you like to see the younger generation do? A: Use your innovation to promote higher consciousness. Be fair, respectful, and kind. Be a little sociable. Be out there. Give people a chance. Don’t be a zombie, taken by this pop culture. Stand out against those things not supportive of higher consciousness.
Q: How to see Krishna in others? A: See whatever ability they have as Krishna. Anything that is significant or prominent is Krishna.
We are at an advantage if we take shelter of a person who not only understands the spiritual philosophy but can bring it into the field of action.
Diversity gives us more experience and adds to our character.
Diversity is the spice of life.
I encourage people to go for a forest walk for it clears the mind.
Even when we are treated in a negative way we can use that to become humble.
The guru guides and encourages in executing the important functions in life.
Animals have a father and a mother, but in addition, humans have God and a guru.
The guru brings God, and God brings the guru.
The guru reminds us that human life has a higher purpose.
Kids do not have a problem understanding God. They are accustomed to experience that protection and provisions come from a person greater than themselves.
We do not say that one person does it all for you. We have many gurus. Vyasadeva, who wrote the Vedic literature, is a guru. As I grew up, I learned so much from nature.
Sometimes when people ask me why I walk I say, “So I can see the world and learn from it.”
I heard from one man, “Never let school get in the way of your education.”
People learn more from your behavior than what you say.
You can serve the guru by serving the mission, and our mission is to share the knowledge of Krishna consciousness we have received. Srila Prabhupada has given seven purposes for ISKCON, and we can see from reading them that we are meant to teach.
Actually siksa-guru is more important than diksa-guru. Krishna was not the diksa-guru of Arjuna nor was Sukadeva Goswami the diksa-guru of Maharaja Pariksit. We should adjust our culture to have more respect for the siksa-guru.
It is good for parents to encourage children to have faith in the spiritual heroes of the Vedic literature, who will never disappoint them, and not those manufactured by human society.
When talking with people on my marathon walks, the most important thing on people’s minds was relationships.
If you do not take the time to cultivate a relationship with God, then you will not have that in your next life.
Ego brings us here, and bashing of the ego gets us out of here.
We have to learn to love love and to hate hate.
Life is hard, and if people are not being given the real coping mechanisms, people can fall apart.
Our society is more individualist and self-centered. This ego-based focus is killing us.
I keep my eyes open, and I see a lot of unhappy people out there. They are making so many plans for happiness, but they are not becoming happy. I see Srila Prabhupada has scooped me up and given me a better life, so I want to share that.
Enthusiasm comes from keeping busy in Krishna’s service.
I think I was too fanatical in the beginning, in terms of renunciation, which is natural, but now I do realize that we do have to maintain relationships with others, like family members.
Becoming resentful about how someone treated you in the past is the mode of ignorance. Forgiveness is the mode of goodness. We should go there.
Comments by me:
I have read the Krishna book for the last three Karttikas, and it was a wonderful experience.
The crime article is in Science of Self-Realization, page 174 of the soft edition.
Sometimes I describe the Hare Krishna mantra as protecting us from the materialism that surrounds us. I have got good responses to that.
The devotees of Lord Caitanya see the entire universe as full of happiness: visvam purna-sukhayate.
Sruti Sagara Prabhu:
Radhanath Swami says that Lord Caitanya is in anxiety that people are suffering and wants to distribute love of Godhead. If we take on that anxiety of Lord Caitanya, then He will free us from our tiny anxieties.
Radhanath Swami says that the Rupa and Sanatana Goswami gave up immense wealth, but they got the even greater wealth of Lord Caitanya’s instructions.
Rasika Siromani Prabhu:
As neophytes we are trying to come to a point when we continually experience the taste of bhakti-rasa.
We cannot be partly in Krishna consciousness and partly in maya. At each moment, we are either in Krishna consciousness or in maya.
Bhakti-yoga lifts you out of the law of karma.
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When we learn how many people were killed in the Battle of Kurukshetra, we may lament, but Bhismadeva explains there is no reason to because those who saw Krishna on the Battlefield of Kurukshetra attained their original spiritual forms, which they never would have otherwise.
vijaya-ratha-kutumba atta-totre
dhrta-haya-rasmini tac-chriyeksaniye bhagavati ratir astu me mumurshor
yam iha nirikshya hata gatah sva-rupam
“At the moment of death, let my ultimate attraction be to Sri Krishna, the Personality of Godhead. I concentrate my mind upon Arjuna’s chariot driver, who stood with a whip in His right hand and a bridle rope in His left, and who was very careful to give protection to Arjuna's chariot by all means. Those who saw Him on the Battlefield of Kurukshetra attained their original forms after death” (Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.9.39).
Sony has once again made headlines with its groundbreaking innovation, the high-priced Afeela car, which was unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025. This latest offering from the tech giant not only showcases Sony's commitment to cutting-edge technology but also signals a significant shift in the automotive industry. In this article, we delve into the features, technology, and future implications of the Afeela car, providing a comprehensive overview for both enthusiasts and industry professionals.
He Kissed His Reflection! Mayapur Clean and Green. How Free Are We? Reality, Poetry, Consciousness, Enlightenment, Metaphor and Srimad-Bhagavatam. Maya's Friend Norm. Taking shelter of the Lord and rendering service unto Him. Why bad things happen to good people? Devotees in Ukraine distribute prasadam amid bombings. Transcending Worldly Affairs Through Krishna's Mercy. What Iskcon is Doing in Mahakumbh? Srila Prabhupada: The Notebook of Krishna. Expecting Mother's opportunity. Celebrities in Mahakumbh. Continue reading "Devotion and Service Uplifting Communities Globally, January 31 → Dandavats"
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, one of the world's largest and most influential technology expos, welcomed a groundbreaking debut that has left the tech community buzzing: the innovative Phone Toaster. This hybrid device, which seamlessly combines the functionalities of a smartphone and a toaster, promises to revolutionize how we interact with technology and manage our daily routines. In this article, we delve into the features, potential impacts, and future prospects of this unique invention.
HH Mukunda Goswami discusses Srimad Bhagavatam 3.21.17, emphasizing the liberation attained by devotees who give up worldly affairs and take shelter in Krishna’s lotus feet. He elaborates on material existence, devotional service, and the importance of discussing Krishna’s pastimes. He also highlights Srila Prabhupada’s vision for Back to Godhead magazine to engage with contemporary issues Read More...
Translation Within Your mind there can be no such differentiation as “This one is mine, and that is another’s,” because You are the Supreme Absolute Truth, the Soul of all beings, always equipoised and enjoying transcendental happiness within Yourself. Just like the heavenly desire tree, You bless all who properly worship You, granting their desired Read More...
Translation O Lord, Your tongue is a plate of sacrifice, Your nostril is another plate of sacrifice, in Your belly is the eating plate of sacrifice, and another plate of sacrifice is the holes of Your ears. In Your mouth is the Brahmā plate of sacrifice, Your throat is the plate of sacrifice known as Read More...
In a move that has sent ripples through the tech community, Dell has announced the end of its XPS brand, a decision that marks a significant shift in the company's product line and overall strategy. The XPS series, known for its high-performance laptops and desktops, has been a cornerstone of Dell's consumer and professional offerings for over a decade. This article delves into the reasons behind this decision, the potential implications for both consumers and the tech industry, and what the future might hold for Dell.
India Offering Live To Give 2024. WSN December 2024 - World Sankirtan Newsletter. Change the World – Become a More Effective Sankirtan Warrior! Australia Offering Live To Give 2024 Canada Offering Live To Give 2024 Europe Offering Live To Give 2024 FIJI Offering Live To Give 2024 India Offering Live To Give 2024 Latin America Offering Live To Give 2024 London Offering Live To Give 2024 Madhya Purva Desh Offering Live To Give 2024 New Zealand Offering Live To Give 2024 United States Offering Live To Give 2024 Continue reading "Uniting the World Through Live To Give 2024, January 30 → Dandavats"
Technology and artistry have often been seen as separate entities, but Samsung is now merging these two worlds with the launch of the The Frame Pro TV. This advanced television is not just a display for your favorite shows and movies; it's a piece of art that can transform your living space into a gallery. In this comprehensive article, we will dive deep into the features, design, and technological advancements that set The Frame Pro TV apart from its predecessors and competitors.
For the year 2024, we're not surprised. Mayapur was No. 1 for the year, with Jayapataka Swami's steady team of book distributors going out and giving the mercy of Krsna. They did 1,819,832 book points! May Jayapataka Swami live a long life! He's such an inspiration to devotees worldwide. The Srila Prabhupada marathon in December was another incredible victory for Lord Caitanya's sankirtana movement. The Chowpatty temple in Mumbai was the No. 1 temple worldwide in December. "The simple temple," as it is known, is also a fired-up book distribution center. Continue reading "WSN December 2024 – World Sankirtan Newsletter → Dandavats"
Raghunatha Dasa was born around 1416 Shaka (1494 AD) in the town of Saptagram in Hooghly district of West Bengal. He was the only son of his father Govardhana Majumdar a wealthy landlord of the area.
Govardhana Majumdar’s elder brother was Hiranya Majumdar who had no male progeny. Hence Raghunatha Dasa was the sole inheritor of the vast fortune the brothers had accumulated.
Both his father and uncle were devoted to Lord Chaitanya and revered Advaita Acharya. This was because of the influence of their family priest Balarama Acharya. When Raghunatha was still a young boy, Balarama Acharya hosted the great Acharya of the Holy Name, Haridasa Thakura at his village Candapura, which was within the jurisdiction of Saptagrama.
Raghunatha used to visit Haridasa Thakura every day. Being naturally compassionate, Haridasa Thakura showered his mercy on the young Raghunatha. It was due to this mercy that Raghunatha later attained the shelter of Lord Chaitanya.
Raghunatha got his first opportunity to see Lord Chaitanya when the Lord, after accepting sannyasa, came to Shantipura and stayed at the residence of Advaita Acharya. Since Govardhana and Hiranaya Majumdar always served Advaita Acharya with great faith and devotion, he was naturally inclined to give His mercy to their boy Raghunatha. Thus, He gave the remnants of the Lord’s food to Raghunatha for as long as the Lord stayed at Shantipura. After staying in Shantipura for some time, the Lord departed for Jagannatha Puri.
Raghunatha Dasa stayed in Puri for 16 years till Lord Chaitanya and His chief confidante Svarupa Damodara disappeared from worldly vision. When this happened Raghunatha Dasa unable to bear their separation, left Puri to commit suicide in Vrindavan. There he met Srila Rupa and Sanatana Goswami who convinced him to serve Lord Chaitanya by relating His Puri pastimes to them.
Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami resided at Radha Kund and was responsible for getting Radha and Shyam Kund enlarged and finished with steps for devotees to take holy dips there.
In the Gaura Gannodesha Dipika, Sri Raghunatha Dasa Goswami is revealed to be a Manjari called Rasa Manjari. Other names for this Manjari are Rati Manjari and Bhanumati.
Sumptuous Prasadam at Mahakhumbh2025. Celebrating Success: Reflections on ISKCON UK Marathon. Urgency of Surrender to Krishna. I am not these senses... Looking for the Supreme God. The First Meeting - Ultadanga, Kolkata, The advantage of worshiping the Supreme Person, Unlock Wisdom with The Gita Companion. Saturday joy overload @ Radhadesh Mellows. Triggers of Transformation. Bhajana Rahasya. Iskcon Tokyo - New Gaya Japan Continue reading "Iskcon’s spreading Krishna’s Love and Wisdom Worldwide, January 29 → Dandavats"
Translation Therefore, desiring to marry a girl of like disposition who may prove to be a veritable cow of plenty in my married life, to satisfy my lustful desire I too have sought the shelter of Your lotus feet, which are the source of everything, for You are like a desire tree. Purport In spite Read More...
HH Indradyumna Swami: We recently visited Ultadanga, the sacred place where Srila Prabhupada first met his eternal spiritual master, Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura. It was during this profound encounter that Abhay Charan, as he was known at the time, offered his obeisances and received the life-changing instruction to spread Krishna Consciousness in the English language. Read More...
More photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/152kM0Yf09npj2PlpZi8whGEQj0cyXpkO This year, our community gathered with immense enthusiasm and devotion to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our 2024 Book Distribution Marathon. The festival, held at the Bhaktivedanta Manor on 25 January 2025, brought together devotees from UK and Ireland uniting us in the spirit of Sankirtan and the glorious mission of spreading Read More...
SB Class by HG Mahamaya Mataji and HG Jayagauri Mataji. The Svayambhuva devastation. Insights into Near- Death Experiences and Consciousness. Forbidden Archeology NewsFLASH. Sri Nandanandana Dasa Reflects on Padma Shri Recognition. The duty of the King. Like Fire in Gunpowder. IGF team donates Braille Bhagavad-gita. The Seven Perfections of Chanting. The Purpose of the Vedas. Celebrating the Spirit of Unity! Continue reading "Uniting Hearts: Celebrating Bhakti and Enlightenment Worldwide, January 28 → Dandavats"
HG Kalakantha Prabhu discusses SB 1.10.7-12, exploring the Bhagavatam’s context and Krishna’s departure from Hastinapur. He highlights devotees’ deep attachment to Krishna, the transformative power of devotional service, and the process of awakening love for Krishna through chanting and hearing. The talk reflects on material life’s limitations and the joy of spiritual fulfillment. Read More...
Translation Śrī Yudhiṣṭhira said: O Govinda, I desire to worship Your auspicious, opulent expansions by the Rājasūya sacrifice, the king of Vedic ceremonies. Please make our endeavor a success, my Lord. Purport Śrīla Śrīdhara Svāmī states that the word vibhūtīḥ refers to Lord Kṛṣṇa’s expansions (aṁśān), and Śrīla Viśvanātha Cakravartī Ṭhākura further explains that here Read More...
In Episode 2 of *The Insight Stream: Science Meets Philosophy*, guest speaker Dr. Louis Ritz presents a captivating exploration of near-death experiences (NDEs), drawing on neuroscience, spirituality, and ancient wisdom. Host Bob Cohen guides the discussion, with Dr. Ken Cusi as the guest interviewer. Dr. Ritz delves into the phenomena of NDEs, emphasizing shifts in Read More...
By Dandavats Staff Writer
Today is the appearance day of Srila Raghunatha dasa Gosvami and many other acharyas and associates of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Srila Raghunatha dasa Gosvami was born in a very aristocratic family in Bengal. His father and uncle, Govardhana and Hiranya Mazumdar, were wealthy landlords, or zamindars; they were almost like kings in opulence. But although Raghunatha dasa was their only heir, he had no attraction for material opulence and enjoyment.
By Dandavats Staff Writer
By Dandavats Staff Writer
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By Vijaya Das
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By Dandavats Staff Writer