Writings » from disciples » Vyasa Puja Offerings 2017
Vyasa Puja Offerings 2017
(View Devamrita Swami's 2017 offering to Srila Prabhupada)
(right-click to download vyasa-puja offerings as ePub file for reading on iPad and Kindle e-book readers)
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Acyuta bhava devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you on this special day of your appearance!
I am so grateful for the guidance and care you have shown me since we met. I hope and pray that one day I can begin to repay you for all you have given me, by becoming a useful servant to you in your mission to serve Srila Prabhupada. Thank you for your patience with me.
Your aspiring servant and daughter,
Acyuta bhava dd
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you on this special day of your appearance!
I am so grateful for the guidance and care you have shown me since we met. I hope and pray that one day I can begin to repay you for all you have given me, by becoming a useful servant to you in your mission to serve Srila Prabhupada. Thank you for your patience with me.
Your aspiring servant and daughter,
Acyuta bhava dd
Akarsini devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva
Please Accept my Humble Obeicence
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada
Visiting Auckland to see my parents, triggers perpetual blooms of gratitude for your active involvement in my life and the lives of others.
Recently I received some photographs of my parents on Holiday in Hawaii. The first picture looked like a temple entrance with a straw roof, inside were portrait pictures of personalities positioned on each section of the octagonal roof. I felt excited for a moment, until I hurried on to the next picture, “my Dad drinking beer”, to my disappointment photo after photo unpacked the entire scene of my poor parents trying to enjoy their diminishing senses in a restaurant rich with Vegas charm. It was probably called ‘clam palace’ or something close, the decor consisted of clam lamps, wooden pineapple chairs and desserts made into the shape of bivalves. At the time I had just finished reading about the hellish planets in the fifth canto, and noted Prabhupada had completed it in Honalulu, at first I thought my parents had paid a to visit Sri Sri Panca Tattva, and were finally doing something about their spiritual enlightenment. Sadly it was too good to be true.
Along the pathway home you uncover the truths of the miseries of material existence and give clues to navigate each eager apprentice Just before I met you I had come to an awkward junction of two equally unattractive roads. One had a sign that read suicide, ‘this way,” and at the entrance to the other was a bullet-proof BMW resembling a hearse, the rego might as well have read ‘naraka.’ Outside this purview there appeared to be no other option on offer.
Despite being born with a silver spoon in my mouth, as you pointed out, depression and loneliness were always close associates. At secondary school the curriculum approved a film called THREADS, a portrayal of a community dealing with a nuclear holocaust, when combined with my families’ racist overtones started to shape a bleak vision of the world. Moving away from home and attempting a university education that I barely qualified for, increased the feelings of dejection and solitude and need of shelter in smokey clouds of marijuana What I did learn from the institution was the inevitable doom awaiting the earth and its intricate ecosystems that provide homes for so many defenceless species of life, and how foolish homo sapien sapiens really are when possessed by a demonic spirit, determined to enjoy in a reality with no God in the centre.
At a friends home in their back yard was a small stream feed by a fresh-water spring. While we were sitting there a long-finned eel, endemic to New Zealand gracefully swam in our direction, it was probably one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen. Its body was a soft, pale blue-grey colour, with fins that resembled petal like fans behind its ears, and it looked as pure as the water it was swimming in. It could see a dragon-fly that was hovering above the surface that it was inspecting for its lunch, but before it had a chance my so-called friend threw a chunk of dog-roll in front of its face. In the midst of this exemplary event two young children watched taking note of their role-model. This highlight confirmed my suspicions that this world is no place for gentle creatures or gentle persons. The only motivation you have for being here is to tell others about their long lost friend Krsna and engage them in His loving service, and to set up trusts to prevent the extinction of saintly persons.
The alternative route that you ceaselessly advertise is like a secret highway to the heart of Krsna. An expressway illuminated by unlimited iridescent bulbs of bhakti voltage with the power to transform mountains of mundane misfortune into endless mines of sublime sunshine. With compassion and sensitivity you are kindly delivering this message to all who are willing to take. Your Bhakti promotions flow with the times and make the truth more palatable and easy to digest. Enthusiastically endeavouring with intelligence you continue with the mission, packaging bhakti in ever fresh and attractive ways, even the academics don’t stand a chance. Baring no grudge for the elite, instead you are determined to dispel their ignorance with the opulent aid of a Yale education. I still have not finished reading your book ‘Searching for Vedic India,’ I need a dictionary for nearly every third word, but I thank you for placing my brain on a treadmill and helping to reduce my destiny of becoming a moron.
Making the choice to embark aboard the Bhakti express, the emotional conflict of abandoning so called friends and family left behind on the platform, eventually becomes an easier sea to cross. You constantly give advice about wise gardening, “watering the tree at the root, then all the branches, twigs and leaves will be satisfied.” In the same way by serving Krsna, the root cause of everything, all living entities will be also be served. I can see clearer now that its the only sane way to attempt to save the world and my poor parents.
Thank you for the warm light of you association, and the rare opportunity to serve and assist you, patiently waiting for the day when the foggy clouds of my criminal history lift so I can truly understand what you are desperately trying to present.
Still trying to be your servant
Akarsini devi dasi
P.S Thanks for letting me serve Doyal Nitai Gaura Hari, they eat alot of dried bananas.
Please Accept my Humble Obeicence
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada
Visiting Auckland to see my parents, triggers perpetual blooms of gratitude for your active involvement in my life and the lives of others.
Recently I received some photographs of my parents on Holiday in Hawaii. The first picture looked like a temple entrance with a straw roof, inside were portrait pictures of personalities positioned on each section of the octagonal roof. I felt excited for a moment, until I hurried on to the next picture, “my Dad drinking beer”, to my disappointment photo after photo unpacked the entire scene of my poor parents trying to enjoy their diminishing senses in a restaurant rich with Vegas charm. It was probably called ‘clam palace’ or something close, the decor consisted of clam lamps, wooden pineapple chairs and desserts made into the shape of bivalves. At the time I had just finished reading about the hellish planets in the fifth canto, and noted Prabhupada had completed it in Honalulu, at first I thought my parents had paid a to visit Sri Sri Panca Tattva, and were finally doing something about their spiritual enlightenment. Sadly it was too good to be true.
Along the pathway home you uncover the truths of the miseries of material existence and give clues to navigate each eager apprentice Just before I met you I had come to an awkward junction of two equally unattractive roads. One had a sign that read suicide, ‘this way,” and at the entrance to the other was a bullet-proof BMW resembling a hearse, the rego might as well have read ‘naraka.’ Outside this purview there appeared to be no other option on offer.
Despite being born with a silver spoon in my mouth, as you pointed out, depression and loneliness were always close associates. At secondary school the curriculum approved a film called THREADS, a portrayal of a community dealing with a nuclear holocaust, when combined with my families’ racist overtones started to shape a bleak vision of the world. Moving away from home and attempting a university education that I barely qualified for, increased the feelings of dejection and solitude and need of shelter in smokey clouds of marijuana What I did learn from the institution was the inevitable doom awaiting the earth and its intricate ecosystems that provide homes for so many defenceless species of life, and how foolish homo sapien sapiens really are when possessed by a demonic spirit, determined to enjoy in a reality with no God in the centre.
At a friends home in their back yard was a small stream feed by a fresh-water spring. While we were sitting there a long-finned eel, endemic to New Zealand gracefully swam in our direction, it was probably one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen. Its body was a soft, pale blue-grey colour, with fins that resembled petal like fans behind its ears, and it looked as pure as the water it was swimming in. It could see a dragon-fly that was hovering above the surface that it was inspecting for its lunch, but before it had a chance my so-called friend threw a chunk of dog-roll in front of its face. In the midst of this exemplary event two young children watched taking note of their role-model. This highlight confirmed my suspicions that this world is no place for gentle creatures or gentle persons. The only motivation you have for being here is to tell others about their long lost friend Krsna and engage them in His loving service, and to set up trusts to prevent the extinction of saintly persons.
The alternative route that you ceaselessly advertise is like a secret highway to the heart of Krsna. An expressway illuminated by unlimited iridescent bulbs of bhakti voltage with the power to transform mountains of mundane misfortune into endless mines of sublime sunshine. With compassion and sensitivity you are kindly delivering this message to all who are willing to take. Your Bhakti promotions flow with the times and make the truth more palatable and easy to digest. Enthusiastically endeavouring with intelligence you continue with the mission, packaging bhakti in ever fresh and attractive ways, even the academics don’t stand a chance. Baring no grudge for the elite, instead you are determined to dispel their ignorance with the opulent aid of a Yale education. I still have not finished reading your book ‘Searching for Vedic India,’ I need a dictionary for nearly every third word, but I thank you for placing my brain on a treadmill and helping to reduce my destiny of becoming a moron.
Making the choice to embark aboard the Bhakti express, the emotional conflict of abandoning so called friends and family left behind on the platform, eventually becomes an easier sea to cross. You constantly give advice about wise gardening, “watering the tree at the root, then all the branches, twigs and leaves will be satisfied.” In the same way by serving Krsna, the root cause of everything, all living entities will be also be served. I can see clearer now that its the only sane way to attempt to save the world and my poor parents.
Thank you for the warm light of you association, and the rare opportunity to serve and assist you, patiently waiting for the day when the foggy clouds of my criminal history lift so I can truly understand what you are desperately trying to present.
Still trying to be your servant
Akarsini devi dasi
P.S Thanks for letting me serve Doyal Nitai Gaura Hari, they eat alot of dried bananas.
Amani Gaurahari das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this auspicious day
Over the last seven months in Hamilton thousands of books have been distributed, hundreds of invitations given out, and many contacts made.
Perhaps a couple of hundred of those have made it to Mantra Lounge. Of those, some were fortunate enough to hear directly from you. Out of these individuals a small handful are regularly engaged in devotional service.
What a challenge!
From my experience in Mantra Lounge I'm starting to see that to be engaged in this service successfully, long term, I need to develop the following qualities:
detachment from the results of my activities,
compassion,
tolerance,
enthusiasm,
determination,
patience,
selflessness and, above all,
surrender to Krishna and His plan.
Gurudeva, you are a perfect example of one who has deeply developed all these qualities - how else can one continue reaching out to the lost living entities, in such a dynamic, ingenious way....
for decades?
What I find most inspiring is your eagerness,and the pleasure you get from giving Krishna to others.
My following experience whilst travelling with you highlights this.
I remember while waiting with you in the back of a lecture room at a university in Pennsylvania, a young, humble student approached you with great excitement and queried you about the Krishna philosophy.
After asking about you personally, she asked to be shown how to meditate -
all of a sudden your mood intensified.
It appeared that you became overwhelmed with joy - a chance to introduce someone to chanting Hare Krishna!
With great satisfaction you taught her how to chant the Hare Krishna mantra on some beads she had with her. It was a special opportunity for you to reunite your Beloved, Krsna, with His lost part and parcel.
Thank you for giving me hope that one can become completely satisfied and ecstatic simply by having Krsna, chanting about Krishna and giving Krsna to others.
I am so grateful for an opportunity to become regularly absorbed in hearing and chanting about the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna along with the opportunity to share this greatest wealth with others.
Thank you Gurudeva.
I feel that I desperately need lots of purification before I can be of much use to you. I hope that one day I can take some responsibility for assisting you and your disciples in connecting the condition souls with Krishna.
Your servant,
Amani Gaurahari das
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this auspicious day
Over the last seven months in Hamilton thousands of books have been distributed, hundreds of invitations given out, and many contacts made.
Perhaps a couple of hundred of those have made it to Mantra Lounge. Of those, some were fortunate enough to hear directly from you. Out of these individuals a small handful are regularly engaged in devotional service.
What a challenge!
From my experience in Mantra Lounge I'm starting to see that to be engaged in this service successfully, long term, I need to develop the following qualities:
detachment from the results of my activities,
compassion,
tolerance,
enthusiasm,
determination,
patience,
selflessness and, above all,
surrender to Krishna and His plan.
Gurudeva, you are a perfect example of one who has deeply developed all these qualities - how else can one continue reaching out to the lost living entities, in such a dynamic, ingenious way....
for decades?
What I find most inspiring is your eagerness,and the pleasure you get from giving Krishna to others.
My following experience whilst travelling with you highlights this.
I remember while waiting with you in the back of a lecture room at a university in Pennsylvania, a young, humble student approached you with great excitement and queried you about the Krishna philosophy.
After asking about you personally, she asked to be shown how to meditate -
all of a sudden your mood intensified.
It appeared that you became overwhelmed with joy - a chance to introduce someone to chanting Hare Krishna!
With great satisfaction you taught her how to chant the Hare Krishna mantra on some beads she had with her. It was a special opportunity for you to reunite your Beloved, Krsna, with His lost part and parcel.
Thank you for giving me hope that one can become completely satisfied and ecstatic simply by having Krsna, chanting about Krishna and giving Krsna to others.
I am so grateful for an opportunity to become regularly absorbed in hearing and chanting about the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna along with the opportunity to share this greatest wealth with others.
Thank you Gurudeva.
I feel that I desperately need lots of purification before I can be of much use to you. I hope that one day I can take some responsibility for assisting you and your disciples in connecting the condition souls with Krishna.
Your servant,
Amani Gaurahari das
Amogha Pandit das
Dear Gurumaharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
This year I had a lot of realizations and conformations that Krishna acting in my life and arranges my purification. I am grateful to you Gurumaharaj for your support, instructions and service opportunities you are giving me. By trying to follow your instructions and suggestions I see how my life moves into right direction.
I appreciate very much how you deliver knowledge and your experience from Bhakti scriptures to the students of many universities and how you inspire and direct outreach centers in big cities, where young people can find association and engagement that helps them to become grounded in spiritual practice.
Thank you Gurudev for traveling and making your self available for your disciples and aspiring disciples, for taking austerities and inconveniences in trying to arrange for proper lifestyle for your disciples - so that they can continue to progress in Bhakti.
One quality that you have particularly fascinates me - is your ability to connect and meet people in a way that is most inspiring and appropriate for particular person.
Thank you for giving me chance to do personal service to you, despite my faults and incompetency. At times when I was doing some personal services to you, I often had recurrent glimpses of realization that I am just a servant and there is nothing more in me than tendency to serve. At those moments I felt happiness and freedom from my baggage. I hope I will be able to serve you in a way that will be pleasing to you.
Your servant
Amogha Pandit das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
This year I had a lot of realizations and conformations that Krishna acting in my life and arranges my purification. I am grateful to you Gurumaharaj for your support, instructions and service opportunities you are giving me. By trying to follow your instructions and suggestions I see how my life moves into right direction.
I appreciate very much how you deliver knowledge and your experience from Bhakti scriptures to the students of many universities and how you inspire and direct outreach centers in big cities, where young people can find association and engagement that helps them to become grounded in spiritual practice.
Thank you Gurudev for traveling and making your self available for your disciples and aspiring disciples, for taking austerities and inconveniences in trying to arrange for proper lifestyle for your disciples - so that they can continue to progress in Bhakti.
One quality that you have particularly fascinates me - is your ability to connect and meet people in a way that is most inspiring and appropriate for particular person.
Thank you for giving me chance to do personal service to you, despite my faults and incompetency. At times when I was doing some personal services to you, I often had recurrent glimpses of realization that I am just a servant and there is nothing more in me than tendency to serve. At those moments I felt happiness and freedom from my baggage. I hope I will be able to serve you in a way that will be pleasing to you.
Your servant
Amogha Pandit das
Ananda-candra devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you and your words rich with wisdom!
As we stood on the street with a handful books, before barely saying more than three words, a man walked by and yelled at us "Jesus Christ, NO!" .
We calmly replied "Oh sorry, are you Christian?".
"Definitely not!" he scoffed.
My husband said "Apologies, I heard you say the name Jesus and so assumed you were Christian. Have you read these books?"
Frowning and clearly trying his best to be offensive, the man said "Hell no, I have not. And if they are to do with the body turning into anything more than dust after death then I'm definitely NOT
interested!".
"Great, this is right up your alley". My husband smiled, gave him a gentle pat on his back and said "This is about sustainable happiness".
The once scowling, but now pacified man, a little taken back by what had just happened, began turning the pages of your book 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness'.
On a different day, we tried to stop a lady who looked back and asserted "My husband is a Morman".
"That's great. Take a look at this." I held out to her a 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness' book.
She repeated "My husband is a Morman. I know all about it. I really don't believe in God!"
"Do you believe in happiness?" I questioned.
She looked confused, so I explained that we were meditation teachers and this book was a study about happiness.
She apologised "I'm so sorry, I thought you were Mormans".
Taking the book in her hands and looking at the cover she said "This sounds very interesting".
On another occasion when asking an older, rock 'n' roll looking lady if she was from in or out of town, she hissed "Why are you asking me that?!".
Already she was irritated and now even more so that we were getting in her way. "I'm not interested!" she declared.
As we continued to speak, she just interupted "Are you trying to sell me something?".
After a few more words she cut us off again, motioning with her hand "Look, get to the point! What's your agenda?".
Feeling her temper brewing, I thought she was going to start swearing, but somehow we persuaded her to read one paragraph from 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness'.
Immediately her entire mood changed. You could almost see her whole body cool in temperature. "Now this sounds like a good book. I'll take it".
On another exchange we asked a lady "How is your happiness today?". She looked a bit stunned, removed her sunglasses and revealed "It's funny you ask me this as I was just at the doctor and he said that I need to find something that brings me happiness in life".
On another occasion, when presenting happiness to an older man, he told us with confidence "I've already found it!".
We asked what his secret was and he explained "Keeping it simple. I live off the land in the Coramandel, grow my own vegetables, have solar energy".
"Who do you live with out there?" I asked.
"Oh heck" he confessed "You got me there! I'm on my own and not happy
about that part!". He laughed and gave my arm a friendly nudge "Maybe I should read the book after all!".
On one afternoon, we approached some university students and it turned out they were in the midst of writing essays about happiness. They were very happy to come across a book about this very topic and so took two copies.
On another evening, a young man pointed to the 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness' book in my hand and proudly announced "I've started reading that book already".
"Awesome!" I said "Where did you get it?".
He explained that he had found it in a man-made forest hutt, while going on a bush walk on a wider Wellington walking trail. He read some of it while taking a rest in the hutt and now wanted his own copy.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for writing your book "Hiding In Unatural Happiness". There is so much to glorify about it. I won't pretend I'm a literary expert or a scholar, I couldn't fool
anyone, but I wanted to express my simple appreciation for the fact that this book is so relevant and attractive to all sorts of people in todays world.
You always find ways to make Krsna Consciousness accessible. You always find ways to inspire people to at least start to consider something more than the humdrum. It's truly inspiring.
In this spiritually vacant city where most seem totally fed up with the concept of God, religion, perceiving the Krishna's on the street to be evangelising such things, I often feel like your book, which I can confidently present is about Happiness, is my only hope for participating in Lord Chaitanyas Sankirtan mission. Of course that comes down to my own lack of purity and confidence, yet time and time again we are meeting people who are so on guard and defensive but when presented with 'happiness' they certainly become more pacified and willing to hear.
I am so grateful that by your years of practise, your expertise, your effort, your research, your time to write, your dedication to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Chaitanya, you have made this book happen and therefore blessed with me a tiny opportunity to dip my toes in the world of giving.
Of course you once spoke in Wellington, that if by writing your book it inspired people to read Srila Prabhupada's books, only then would you consider it a success.
I can certainly say that success has come. One lady who we showed the book to was super enthusiastic "Oh my gosh! I'm reading this book right now and I absolutely LOVE it!". She had found it in her friends house and was now eager to take one of Prabhupada's Books.
I've seen many people at Bhakti Lounge, initially daunted by the size and commitment required to read Bhagavad Gita, start reading "Hiding In Unatural Happiness" first, which then inspires them to go on to the Bhagavad Gita. It's like a sweet springboard dive into an ocean of nectar and new life. It's a victory for those who assist, those who witness and ultimately for you as a dear servant to Srila Prabhupada.
Thank you so much for translating Prabhupada's words into such
digestable and exciting forms for the modern miserly mind.
Please write more!
Your servant,
Ananda-candra
Please accept my humble obeisances!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you and your words rich with wisdom!
As we stood on the street with a handful books, before barely saying more than three words, a man walked by and yelled at us "Jesus Christ, NO!" .
We calmly replied "Oh sorry, are you Christian?".
"Definitely not!" he scoffed.
My husband said "Apologies, I heard you say the name Jesus and so assumed you were Christian. Have you read these books?"
Frowning and clearly trying his best to be offensive, the man said "Hell no, I have not. And if they are to do with the body turning into anything more than dust after death then I'm definitely NOT
interested!".
"Great, this is right up your alley". My husband smiled, gave him a gentle pat on his back and said "This is about sustainable happiness".
The once scowling, but now pacified man, a little taken back by what had just happened, began turning the pages of your book 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness'.
On a different day, we tried to stop a lady who looked back and asserted "My husband is a Morman".
"That's great. Take a look at this." I held out to her a 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness' book.
She repeated "My husband is a Morman. I know all about it. I really don't believe in God!"
"Do you believe in happiness?" I questioned.
She looked confused, so I explained that we were meditation teachers and this book was a study about happiness.
She apologised "I'm so sorry, I thought you were Mormans".
Taking the book in her hands and looking at the cover she said "This sounds very interesting".
On another occasion when asking an older, rock 'n' roll looking lady if she was from in or out of town, she hissed "Why are you asking me that?!".
Already she was irritated and now even more so that we were getting in her way. "I'm not interested!" she declared.
As we continued to speak, she just interupted "Are you trying to sell me something?".
After a few more words she cut us off again, motioning with her hand "Look, get to the point! What's your agenda?".
Feeling her temper brewing, I thought she was going to start swearing, but somehow we persuaded her to read one paragraph from 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness'.
Immediately her entire mood changed. You could almost see her whole body cool in temperature. "Now this sounds like a good book. I'll take it".
On another exchange we asked a lady "How is your happiness today?". She looked a bit stunned, removed her sunglasses and revealed "It's funny you ask me this as I was just at the doctor and he said that I need to find something that brings me happiness in life".
On another occasion, when presenting happiness to an older man, he told us with confidence "I've already found it!".
We asked what his secret was and he explained "Keeping it simple. I live off the land in the Coramandel, grow my own vegetables, have solar energy".
"Who do you live with out there?" I asked.
"Oh heck" he confessed "You got me there! I'm on my own and not happy
about that part!". He laughed and gave my arm a friendly nudge "Maybe I should read the book after all!".
On one afternoon, we approached some university students and it turned out they were in the midst of writing essays about happiness. They were very happy to come across a book about this very topic and so took two copies.
On another evening, a young man pointed to the 'Hiding in Unatural Happiness' book in my hand and proudly announced "I've started reading that book already".
"Awesome!" I said "Where did you get it?".
He explained that he had found it in a man-made forest hutt, while going on a bush walk on a wider Wellington walking trail. He read some of it while taking a rest in the hutt and now wanted his own copy.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for writing your book "Hiding In Unatural Happiness". There is so much to glorify about it. I won't pretend I'm a literary expert or a scholar, I couldn't fool
anyone, but I wanted to express my simple appreciation for the fact that this book is so relevant and attractive to all sorts of people in todays world.
You always find ways to make Krsna Consciousness accessible. You always find ways to inspire people to at least start to consider something more than the humdrum. It's truly inspiring.
In this spiritually vacant city where most seem totally fed up with the concept of God, religion, perceiving the Krishna's on the street to be evangelising such things, I often feel like your book, which I can confidently present is about Happiness, is my only hope for participating in Lord Chaitanyas Sankirtan mission. Of course that comes down to my own lack of purity and confidence, yet time and time again we are meeting people who are so on guard and defensive but when presented with 'happiness' they certainly become more pacified and willing to hear.
I am so grateful that by your years of practise, your expertise, your effort, your research, your time to write, your dedication to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Chaitanya, you have made this book happen and therefore blessed with me a tiny opportunity to dip my toes in the world of giving.
Of course you once spoke in Wellington, that if by writing your book it inspired people to read Srila Prabhupada's books, only then would you consider it a success.
I can certainly say that success has come. One lady who we showed the book to was super enthusiastic "Oh my gosh! I'm reading this book right now and I absolutely LOVE it!". She had found it in her friends house and was now eager to take one of Prabhupada's Books.
I've seen many people at Bhakti Lounge, initially daunted by the size and commitment required to read Bhagavad Gita, start reading "Hiding In Unatural Happiness" first, which then inspires them to go on to the Bhagavad Gita. It's like a sweet springboard dive into an ocean of nectar and new life. It's a victory for those who assist, those who witness and ultimately for you as a dear servant to Srila Prabhupada.
Thank you so much for translating Prabhupada's words into such
digestable and exciting forms for the modern miserly mind.
Please write more!
Your servant,
Ananda-candra
Ananta-naga das
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you!
I want to share how fortunate I am.
When we have an object that we are naturally attracted to, it is very easy to remember. In this way, because my mind is attracted by your qualities, words and actions, I often meditate on your personality.
I haven't met anyone in my life before who could see so deep in someone's heart. It's as though nothing can be hidden from you. You graciously overlook our faults, understanding our past conditioning and bring out our what-ever-best qualities left in kali-yuga to engage in Krishna's service.
I very often reflect how you are crossing mountains and seas to meet people around the world in your sincere desire to give them art and science of Bhakti-yoga. In order to do that, you always meditate on how to make it easier for recipients to accept and follow the path of love and devotion. For a conditioned soul, it is very hard to give up all nonsense and surrender to Krishna's plan. Therefore you make all skillful arrangements, tirelessly explain, train and guide us, set up outreach centers, designate and arrange service according to our skills and abilities, encourage us by your instructions and doing so much more to fan little sparks of Bhakti in our hearts.
You are self-sufficient and spiritually realized, therefore there is no need for you to do it. Yet, you follow in the footsteps of the most munificent incarnation of Krishna - Lord Caitanya, freely distributing love of Godhead to everyone – qualified and unqualified, thus being munificent yourself.
You are expert and very serious about taking care of your body, allowing you to cope with austerities like climate and time zone change and continue traveling at an advanced age. I have personal experience and also heard from others who traveled with you that it is hard to keep up with your pace even though most of your assistants are much younger.
I often think how personal you are. I understand that Bhakti-yoga is all about being personal because if we want to love for real, we have to learn how to become personal in our relationships. The concept is easy to understand, but for me - it is easier said than done. When we are lucky to have your personal association you show us by example how it can be done. I am particularly fascinated by your ability to give “personalized” answer to questions after Srimad Bhagavatam class.
You always stress the importance of guidance in Bhakti-yoga and importance of taking advantage of guidance available. I come to a realization that good advice is a great treasure and real opulence in the spiritual life. With your guidance, we are sure to be safe and progress steadily in our practice.
Thank you for being an inexhaustible display of good qualities, valuable instructions and exemplary Vaishnava behavior.
Your servant,
Ananta-naga das
Ananya & Vraj dham das ( children of Premdham & Madhuryadham Devi Dasi)
Hare Krishna Guru Maharaj,
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
We pray to Shrimati Radha Rani & Krishna for your long life and to shower your mercy on us. I along with my younger brother sometime do kirtan and sometime enact small scripts of Krishna's pastimes. We're learning a lot to serve devotees.
During Janmasthami, we both took part in drama on the pastime of Dhru Maharaj. I did double role - Suruchi & Inquisitive people who approach Krishna.
Slowly, by constantly hearing from devotees we feel to serve you more and look forward to meet you soon.
Your aspiring servant,
Ananya & Vraj dham.
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
We pray to Shrimati Radha Rani & Krishna for your long life and to shower your mercy on us. I along with my younger brother sometime do kirtan and sometime enact small scripts of Krishna's pastimes. We're learning a lot to serve devotees.
During Janmasthami, we both took part in drama on the pastime of Dhru Maharaj. I did double role - Suruchi & Inquisitive people who approach Krishna.
Slowly, by constantly hearing from devotees we feel to serve you more and look forward to meet you soon.
Your aspiring servant,
Ananya & Vraj dham.
Andy
Dear Devamrita Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
And so I begin this offering to you, my dear Gurudeva, with simple words of profound meaning - as so many of Srila Prabhupada's and, through the parampara, your teachings.
"Humble obeisances"; if this is to not merely be a platitude, then I have a long way to go. If I am to be honest, my sincere offerings to guru and Krishna are tainted with material attachment and false ego.
But by your grace and intelligence, you have paved a marvellous road and built the finest of ashrams. Thus, I thank you with full gratitude for so expertly cultivating fertile soil in which I can transform and purify my heart through seva and sangha.
And what patience! As I struggle to "get over myself" and pull myself out of nescience, I flail and struggle. Yet it's always with open arms that you and your wonderful disciples in New Zealand encourage me - throwing me lifelines. Most recently through the opportunity to engage in strategic planning with Gopal Guru Prabhu.
While my own spiritual motivations and endeavours are not yet fully selfless, through your mercy, I at least have an opportunity and a process by which to serve you, Prabhupada, Gauranga and Krishna. Thank you for allowing me, and all of us, to fulfil our eternal dharma as part and parcels of Krishna.
As Srila Prabhupada says in one of his purports, "The individual soul who renders everything to the Supersoul lives very happily within the body." And so my "humble" desire is to increasingly give up my own selfish desires so that one day, as I engage in seva and sanga, I may render everything to guru and Krishna.
Your aspiring servant,
Andy.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
And so I begin this offering to you, my dear Gurudeva, with simple words of profound meaning - as so many of Srila Prabhupada's and, through the parampara, your teachings.
"Humble obeisances"; if this is to not merely be a platitude, then I have a long way to go. If I am to be honest, my sincere offerings to guru and Krishna are tainted with material attachment and false ego.
But by your grace and intelligence, you have paved a marvellous road and built the finest of ashrams. Thus, I thank you with full gratitude for so expertly cultivating fertile soil in which I can transform and purify my heart through seva and sangha.
And what patience! As I struggle to "get over myself" and pull myself out of nescience, I flail and struggle. Yet it's always with open arms that you and your wonderful disciples in New Zealand encourage me - throwing me lifelines. Most recently through the opportunity to engage in strategic planning with Gopal Guru Prabhu.
While my own spiritual motivations and endeavours are not yet fully selfless, through your mercy, I at least have an opportunity and a process by which to serve you, Prabhupada, Gauranga and Krishna. Thank you for allowing me, and all of us, to fulfil our eternal dharma as part and parcels of Krishna.
As Srila Prabhupada says in one of his purports, "The individual soul who renders everything to the Supersoul lives very happily within the body." And so my "humble" desire is to increasingly give up my own selfish desires so that one day, as I engage in seva and sanga, I may render everything to guru and Krishna.
Your aspiring servant,
Andy.
Anthony Sengers
Dear Devamrita Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
It has been over a year since the first darshan with you and I am only now just coming to realize the value of the opportunity that you have gifted to me.
Through the slow and steady cultivation efforts of your disciples (chiefly Hriman Krishna; of whom his amazing devotional qualities are a reflection of your own), I have been able to slowly let go of any skepticism that was present and accept the idea of Krishna as the Supreme personality of Godhead, starting the journey as an aspiring devotee.
Stepping away from my material engagements was quite difficult and impressions left on the mind act like fog covering the path ahead. However, hearing lectures recounting the much greater challenges you yourself overcame as a young devotee and the qualifications you now possess gives me further faith in the process of Bhakti.
Your selfless service is invaluable and is greatly appreciated. I hope to be just fraction of a fraction of the devotee that you are.
Therefore, aspiring to be your humble servant,
Bhakta Anthony
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
It has been over a year since the first darshan with you and I am only now just coming to realize the value of the opportunity that you have gifted to me.
Through the slow and steady cultivation efforts of your disciples (chiefly Hriman Krishna; of whom his amazing devotional qualities are a reflection of your own), I have been able to slowly let go of any skepticism that was present and accept the idea of Krishna as the Supreme personality of Godhead, starting the journey as an aspiring devotee.
Stepping away from my material engagements was quite difficult and impressions left on the mind act like fog covering the path ahead. However, hearing lectures recounting the much greater challenges you yourself overcame as a young devotee and the qualifications you now possess gives me further faith in the process of Bhakti.
Your selfless service is invaluable and is greatly appreciated. I hope to be just fraction of a fraction of the devotee that you are.
Therefore, aspiring to be your humble servant,
Bhakta Anthony
Apurva-madhuri devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Obeisances to you, again and again, on your appearance day!
Gurudeva, thinking of you means feeling safe and sane. It is because of you and your tidal waves of influence that I am able to sit here and write this silly attempt at a letter. I pray that one day I'll truly appreciate the compassion you had in allowing me to take shelter of you as a teacher and father.
Thank you for believing in me and for remembering everything. Because of you, I am excited to have started an eternal career in hearing and chanting about Krishna. I only hope that I can somehow attempt to follow your example of showing indiscriminate care towards all other living beings. I am in awe of how you show such complete fearlessness in your words and actions, not from narrow-mindedness, but from truly realised and applied spiritual knowledge.
Gurudeva, I don’t know anything about God, but because of you I can try to fix my attention on following the process of serving the servant of the servant of Him, one step at a time. I hope that I can make you proud by developing and acting on an ever-increasing anxiety to share the yuga dharma with the world, although my only qualification is that I am trying desperately to find a little spot next to the dust at your feet. Thank you for permitting me to do so.
Your eternal servant and daughter,
Apurva-madhuri devi dasi (Annabel)
Obeisances to you, again and again, on your appearance day!
Gurudeva, thinking of you means feeling safe and sane. It is because of you and your tidal waves of influence that I am able to sit here and write this silly attempt at a letter. I pray that one day I'll truly appreciate the compassion you had in allowing me to take shelter of you as a teacher and father.
Thank you for believing in me and for remembering everything. Because of you, I am excited to have started an eternal career in hearing and chanting about Krishna. I only hope that I can somehow attempt to follow your example of showing indiscriminate care towards all other living beings. I am in awe of how you show such complete fearlessness in your words and actions, not from narrow-mindedness, but from truly realised and applied spiritual knowledge.
Gurudeva, I don’t know anything about God, but because of you I can try to fix my attention on following the process of serving the servant of the servant of Him, one step at a time. I hope that I can make you proud by developing and acting on an ever-increasing anxiety to share the yuga dharma with the world, although my only qualification is that I am trying desperately to find a little spot next to the dust at your feet. Thank you for permitting me to do so.
Your eternal servant and daughter,
Apurva-madhuri devi dasi (Annabel)
Aravinda Nabha das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
Thank you for allowing me to become your disciple.
Having come to Krishna consciousness in New Zealand, I'm realising that Ive been spoilt.
As time goes by I'm understanding more and more about our unique situation here. I've taken for granted the many gifts you've provided for organic growth in Krishna Consciousness.
Your famous for unique outreach centres and the number of devotees they create.
The leaders of ISKCON are looking to you for answers on how your transcendental night clubs and Vedic Contemporary Ashrams work.
Without the Bhakti Lounge and A Contemporary Vedic Ashram I doubt that I would have taken up the practice of Krishna Consciousness
Previous to practicing Bhakti Yoga I never, ever considered becoming religious. Inclined toward vague spiritual philosophy, I was unsure when I first met you. The first time I arrived at Bhakti Lounge you were smashing the idea of living in the moment. This made me more confused then usual. I thought "living in the now" was the thing to do. Proud of a disgusting existence I wasn't ready to hear what you had to say.
That night however, the devotees sat with me, fed me Prasad and babied me. With sweet words and smiles they kept inviting me to come back. Fatigued by material existence and living just around the corner I couldn't refuse.
The Bhakti Lounge became such a powerful experience, it was like an addiction. Bhagavad-Gita workshops on Tuesdays, Wednesday night Kirtan and Sunday's Soul Feast. I became hooked. Looking back at the situation I can see how the devotees had to tolerate and put so much energy into cultivating me. Thank you giving them the tools, facilities, knowledge and enthusiasm to turn an animal into an aspiring devotee.
Here and now, far from the Bhakti Lounge your mercy is still very much felt. I have a mentor for Guidence, devotee association for enthusiasm, Srimad Bhagavatam as a source of strength and a chance to chant Hare Krishna without offence.
Your giving me the greatest gifts!
Opportunities for, selfless devotional service, attentive chanting each morning, two hours of reading and association with devotees.
Remembering the goal of life what more could I ask for?
In my stupidity I often forget or lose appreciation for what I have, but your so compassionately allowing me to live in your Bramachari Ashram. Although I'm not very smart your allowing me to associate with those who are intelligent and gradually I'm learning from them. I find it tough to face my wild independent propensities, but I won't to give them up and become like me senior God brothers who are sold out to selflessly serving you.
I'm so much inspired by them and I know that you are the source of their inspiration.
Your our Hero.
Recently on the 13/8/17 you gave a lecture at New Varshana, Auckland. From Hamilton myself and others eagerly listened to you on a live recording as you told a story from your days behind the Iron Curtain.
Previously I had heard the story in lesser detail from different devotees. I found myself struck with wonder as you personally described a situation which I could hardly conceive of. You relayed how Srila Prabhupada had said that anyone who goes to these communist countries will get the dust of his lotus feet. Wanted by the KGB you would only go out side at night time. Risking your life to preach, you describe the dramatic scene that once unfolded inside the house of a high ranking police officer.
The heroic task that you took to please Srila Prabhupada was at the risk of your own life.
Srila Prabhupada wanted devotees that can perform such selfless service. Evidence of this is found in the purport to Srimad Bhagavatam 6.10.6
"If one is advanced in knowledge, he must always be prepared to sacrifice anything for a better cause. At the present moment the entire world is in a dangerous position under the spell of a godless civilization. The Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement needs many exalted, learned persons who will sacrifice their lives to revive God consciousness throughout the world"
Risking your own life you went to preach and now you play a huge role in reviving God consciousness through out the world.
Your so kind that you have given me a small part to play in assisting you.
Over the last three months I've had the good fortune to spend some time living at the Mantra Lounge in Hamilton. I've happily watched how wonderfully your company culture works. Many young persons have been met by book distributers, invited to the Mantra Lounge, cultivated, engaged in service and now chant at home on their beads.
I feel very happy to be a small cog in the wheel.
Thank you Gurudeva for all of your glorious efforts to please Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious day of your appearance, I'm praying for some intelligence to take more advantage of your mercy.
Aspiring to serve you as a genuine Bramachari,
Aravinda Nabha das.
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
Thank you for allowing me to become your disciple.
Having come to Krishna consciousness in New Zealand, I'm realising that Ive been spoilt.
As time goes by I'm understanding more and more about our unique situation here. I've taken for granted the many gifts you've provided for organic growth in Krishna Consciousness.
Your famous for unique outreach centres and the number of devotees they create.
The leaders of ISKCON are looking to you for answers on how your transcendental night clubs and Vedic Contemporary Ashrams work.
Without the Bhakti Lounge and A Contemporary Vedic Ashram I doubt that I would have taken up the practice of Krishna Consciousness
Previous to practicing Bhakti Yoga I never, ever considered becoming religious. Inclined toward vague spiritual philosophy, I was unsure when I first met you. The first time I arrived at Bhakti Lounge you were smashing the idea of living in the moment. This made me more confused then usual. I thought "living in the now" was the thing to do. Proud of a disgusting existence I wasn't ready to hear what you had to say.
That night however, the devotees sat with me, fed me Prasad and babied me. With sweet words and smiles they kept inviting me to come back. Fatigued by material existence and living just around the corner I couldn't refuse.
The Bhakti Lounge became such a powerful experience, it was like an addiction. Bhagavad-Gita workshops on Tuesdays, Wednesday night Kirtan and Sunday's Soul Feast. I became hooked. Looking back at the situation I can see how the devotees had to tolerate and put so much energy into cultivating me. Thank you giving them the tools, facilities, knowledge and enthusiasm to turn an animal into an aspiring devotee.
Here and now, far from the Bhakti Lounge your mercy is still very much felt. I have a mentor for Guidence, devotee association for enthusiasm, Srimad Bhagavatam as a source of strength and a chance to chant Hare Krishna without offence.
Your giving me the greatest gifts!
Opportunities for, selfless devotional service, attentive chanting each morning, two hours of reading and association with devotees.
Remembering the goal of life what more could I ask for?
In my stupidity I often forget or lose appreciation for what I have, but your so compassionately allowing me to live in your Bramachari Ashram. Although I'm not very smart your allowing me to associate with those who are intelligent and gradually I'm learning from them. I find it tough to face my wild independent propensities, but I won't to give them up and become like me senior God brothers who are sold out to selflessly serving you.
I'm so much inspired by them and I know that you are the source of their inspiration.
Your our Hero.
Recently on the 13/8/17 you gave a lecture at New Varshana, Auckland. From Hamilton myself and others eagerly listened to you on a live recording as you told a story from your days behind the Iron Curtain.
Previously I had heard the story in lesser detail from different devotees. I found myself struck with wonder as you personally described a situation which I could hardly conceive of. You relayed how Srila Prabhupada had said that anyone who goes to these communist countries will get the dust of his lotus feet. Wanted by the KGB you would only go out side at night time. Risking your life to preach, you describe the dramatic scene that once unfolded inside the house of a high ranking police officer.
The heroic task that you took to please Srila Prabhupada was at the risk of your own life.
Srila Prabhupada wanted devotees that can perform such selfless service. Evidence of this is found in the purport to Srimad Bhagavatam 6.10.6
"If one is advanced in knowledge, he must always be prepared to sacrifice anything for a better cause. At the present moment the entire world is in a dangerous position under the spell of a godless civilization. The Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement needs many exalted, learned persons who will sacrifice their lives to revive God consciousness throughout the world"
Risking your own life you went to preach and now you play a huge role in reviving God consciousness through out the world.
Your so kind that you have given me a small part to play in assisting you.
Over the last three months I've had the good fortune to spend some time living at the Mantra Lounge in Hamilton. I've happily watched how wonderfully your company culture works. Many young persons have been met by book distributers, invited to the Mantra Lounge, cultivated, engaged in service and now chant at home on their beads.
I feel very happy to be a small cog in the wheel.
Thank you Gurudeva for all of your glorious efforts to please Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious day of your appearance, I'm praying for some intelligence to take more advantage of your mercy.
Aspiring to serve you as a genuine Bramachari,
Aravinda Nabha das.
Arun
Please accept my humble obeisances.I never thought that i would start my spirutual journey in new zealand and you were instrumental in my journey.I wish you good health in carrying forward krishna consciousness service for many more years to entire community.
Thankyou
Hare krishna
Arun
Thankyou
Hare krishna
Arun
Aśrayānanda das
Dear Guru-Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances
On this auspicious occasion I would like to express my utmost gratitude for your support and shelter through this unique opportunity to become Krishna conscious.
You kindly allow some of your valuable time for someone like myself. In these moments I see how you genuinely care for us. You display the qualities of a Vaisnava in the way you express your love and care for us on all levels. We are fortunate to be able to see and interact with personalies like yourself with these qualities that we would otherwise only read about.
You give me so much inspiration in executing Krishna conscious activities in the Grhastha ashram by showing your incredible focus on always utilising your time for Krishna consciousness. Though some may disagree, I truly believe that as a Grhastha it is possible to use all time to be Krishna conscious. The time is actually there, but my desire and consciousness unfortunately, is not. I pray to remember your focus in order to not let precious time slip away.
Thank you for your care and kind association Gurudeva. I will always aspire to please you. At the very least I always focus on keeping myself and family stable with Krishna in the centre.
Happy appearance day!
With love
Your servant
Asrayananda das
Please accept my humble obeisances
On this auspicious occasion I would like to express my utmost gratitude for your support and shelter through this unique opportunity to become Krishna conscious.
You kindly allow some of your valuable time for someone like myself. In these moments I see how you genuinely care for us. You display the qualities of a Vaisnava in the way you express your love and care for us on all levels. We are fortunate to be able to see and interact with personalies like yourself with these qualities that we would otherwise only read about.
You give me so much inspiration in executing Krishna conscious activities in the Grhastha ashram by showing your incredible focus on always utilising your time for Krishna consciousness. Though some may disagree, I truly believe that as a Grhastha it is possible to use all time to be Krishna conscious. The time is actually there, but my desire and consciousness unfortunately, is not. I pray to remember your focus in order to not let precious time slip away.
Thank you for your care and kind association Gurudeva. I will always aspire to please you. At the very least I always focus on keeping myself and family stable with Krishna in the centre.
Happy appearance day!
With love
Your servant
Asrayananda das
Atma-dharma dasa
Dear Gurudeva Please accept my humble obbeisances.
All Glorys to Srila Prabhupada.
Your glorious qualities are innumerable. I would like to glorify your abillity to inspire westerners to work hard for krishna. Just like your own spiritual master you are able to see what is required to preach according to time place and circumstance. Willing to try new methods without watering down philosophy.
For so many years now loft outreach culture has been growing and developing. We are seeing so many unsuspecting young people and even a few older people becoming inspired to dedicate there life to krishna, modern day miracles.
Without your compassionate vision developing a center and a culture of outreach where would we be?
So many places around the world are struggling to get a few devotees each year to stay. But with your inspiration in urban outreach there is no lack personalitys to cultivate and people are staying. This year I have been given an opportunity to see how your loft outreach culture can be implemented even on a small scale within just a few months so many are coming. But then they come what can I do I am no expert, just trying to keep these people breathing untill they can meet you the expert devotee who knows exactly what these fortunate souls need to hear.
Your emphasis on reading and solid foundations and giving everyone that comes the best opportunity to go the distance in krishna consciousness is incomparable. You truly are tightly holding on to Srila Prabhupadas
Thank you for the opportunity to read Srila Prabhupadas books, thank you for the opportunity to sell books for Krishna, thank you for allowing me to cook for Krishna, and thank you for allowing me the association of such amazing and dedicated devotees. Thank you for making my life worthwhile.
I beg for your mercy.
trying to be your servant
Atma-dharma dasa
All Glorys to Srila Prabhupada.
Your glorious qualities are innumerable. I would like to glorify your abillity to inspire westerners to work hard for krishna. Just like your own spiritual master you are able to see what is required to preach according to time place and circumstance. Willing to try new methods without watering down philosophy.
For so many years now loft outreach culture has been growing and developing. We are seeing so many unsuspecting young people and even a few older people becoming inspired to dedicate there life to krishna, modern day miracles.
Without your compassionate vision developing a center and a culture of outreach where would we be?
So many places around the world are struggling to get a few devotees each year to stay. But with your inspiration in urban outreach there is no lack personalitys to cultivate and people are staying. This year I have been given an opportunity to see how your loft outreach culture can be implemented even on a small scale within just a few months so many are coming. But then they come what can I do I am no expert, just trying to keep these people breathing untill they can meet you the expert devotee who knows exactly what these fortunate souls need to hear.
Your emphasis on reading and solid foundations and giving everyone that comes the best opportunity to go the distance in krishna consciousness is incomparable. You truly are tightly holding on to Srila Prabhupadas
Thank you for the opportunity to read Srila Prabhupadas books, thank you for the opportunity to sell books for Krishna, thank you for allowing me to cook for Krishna, and thank you for allowing me the association of such amazing and dedicated devotees. Thank you for making my life worthwhile.
I beg for your mercy.
trying to be your servant
Atma-dharma dasa
Bala Gopala dasa
Dear Gurudeva ,
I humbly bow to you amidst the splendid sacred dust of your lotus feet.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All Glories to you and your wonder inspiring service!
In a fascinating lecture titled 'Vaisnava Epistemology' you revealed the mind of a real devotee...
''Whenever a Vaisnava sees an extraordinary display of bhakti shakti, first the Vaisnava thinks 'What level of bhakti consciousness is responsible for all this?'. The second thing the Vaisnava thinks is 'Who is the person that this devotee is in contact with, that therefore there is such a display?''.
Srila Prabhupada is that person that you are in constant contact with. Therefore you are able to endlessly sacrifice your every moment in distributing pure Love of God.
Gurudeva your example as a disciple of your Spiritual Master Srila Prabhupada is astonishing!
Considering the quote above, what kind of fathomless Krsna Consciousness inspires you to offer what you do for Srila Prabhupada, so ecstatically, so consistently, so carefully, without any reservation? Your display of how to be a grateful disciple is certainly making me think of how your association with Srila Prabhupada is so intimate and is very alive beyond any doubt.
Reflecting upon my own cheap offerings I become ashamed.
In 2008, during a morning lecture in the home of Jhulana Yatra and Rasa Yatra in Otahuhu, you spoke of letting our actions beg Lord Krsna, letting our actions speak to the Lord and His representatives, letting our actions match the prayers we may offer to Govinda. Begging should be spoken by behaviour, rather than sitting passively offering prayers and begging without any effort in the practical front. I had asked some kind of typical short-cut question, but you took me by surprise by urging me in betterment of proper behaviour. Rather than a string of prayers displaying devotion without personal service or sacrifice "Let your actions beg".
Currently I am seeking to thank you with renewed efforts rather than empty words, which do not succeed in painting over my brightly coloured frailties.
Once HH Jayadvaita Swami asked Srila Prabhupada how the Guru would know if the disciple had been properly serving in his physical absence. Srila Prabhupada replied saying that not only the Guru, but everyone would be able to see the sincerity of the disciples dedication which would be publicly displayed on his face.
Considering these exposing truths, I can offer many thin pale words, but my real offering to you is how I live to warmly welcome the words of direction you have mercifully gifted to me over the now 17 years in your company.
Embarrassed by deficiencies painted all over my face, I seek your help to ignite a blazing fire of lust and greed to reach out to others in my heart.
Knowing that the opportunity of again reuniting with Lord Krsna's loving service is being missed by billions of His lost children who are helplessly being plundered by the cruelty of a spiritually dead society, how can I rest peacefully?
Thank you for not mincing words when you say...
"When the older devotees are not involved in outreach then the preaching is dead".
"Whatever happens keep on preaching".
"Preach together".
"A selfish life is a miserable life".
You also don't hesitate to remind us how when Lord Caitanya spoke to Kurma the Brahmana "Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa as they are given in the Bhagavad-gītā and Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. In this way become a spiritual master and try to liberate everyone in this land". This was specifically an instruction to all householders.
I have gratefully failed to enjoy the world. Now I am certainly half-way dead and am only beginning to appreciate that your service and exceptional example is my only hope. I aspire to be of real use to you in your service to Srila Prabhupada now and life after life.
Aspiring to be one day situated in pure devotional service under your guidance and the guidance of your vigorous, tireless servants.
Wanting to be
Your real servant
Bal Gopal das
I humbly bow to you amidst the splendid sacred dust of your lotus feet.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All Glories to you and your wonder inspiring service!
In a fascinating lecture titled 'Vaisnava Epistemology' you revealed the mind of a real devotee...
''Whenever a Vaisnava sees an extraordinary display of bhakti shakti, first the Vaisnava thinks 'What level of bhakti consciousness is responsible for all this?'. The second thing the Vaisnava thinks is 'Who is the person that this devotee is in contact with, that therefore there is such a display?''.
Srila Prabhupada is that person that you are in constant contact with. Therefore you are able to endlessly sacrifice your every moment in distributing pure Love of God.
Gurudeva your example as a disciple of your Spiritual Master Srila Prabhupada is astonishing!
Considering the quote above, what kind of fathomless Krsna Consciousness inspires you to offer what you do for Srila Prabhupada, so ecstatically, so consistently, so carefully, without any reservation? Your display of how to be a grateful disciple is certainly making me think of how your association with Srila Prabhupada is so intimate and is very alive beyond any doubt.
Reflecting upon my own cheap offerings I become ashamed.
In 2008, during a morning lecture in the home of Jhulana Yatra and Rasa Yatra in Otahuhu, you spoke of letting our actions beg Lord Krsna, letting our actions speak to the Lord and His representatives, letting our actions match the prayers we may offer to Govinda. Begging should be spoken by behaviour, rather than sitting passively offering prayers and begging without any effort in the practical front. I had asked some kind of typical short-cut question, but you took me by surprise by urging me in betterment of proper behaviour. Rather than a string of prayers displaying devotion without personal service or sacrifice "Let your actions beg".
Currently I am seeking to thank you with renewed efforts rather than empty words, which do not succeed in painting over my brightly coloured frailties.
Once HH Jayadvaita Swami asked Srila Prabhupada how the Guru would know if the disciple had been properly serving in his physical absence. Srila Prabhupada replied saying that not only the Guru, but everyone would be able to see the sincerity of the disciples dedication which would be publicly displayed on his face.
Considering these exposing truths, I can offer many thin pale words, but my real offering to you is how I live to warmly welcome the words of direction you have mercifully gifted to me over the now 17 years in your company.
Embarrassed by deficiencies painted all over my face, I seek your help to ignite a blazing fire of lust and greed to reach out to others in my heart.
Knowing that the opportunity of again reuniting with Lord Krsna's loving service is being missed by billions of His lost children who are helplessly being plundered by the cruelty of a spiritually dead society, how can I rest peacefully?
Thank you for not mincing words when you say...
"When the older devotees are not involved in outreach then the preaching is dead".
"Whatever happens keep on preaching".
"Preach together".
"A selfish life is a miserable life".
You also don't hesitate to remind us how when Lord Caitanya spoke to Kurma the Brahmana "Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa as they are given in the Bhagavad-gītā and Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. In this way become a spiritual master and try to liberate everyone in this land". This was specifically an instruction to all householders.
I have gratefully failed to enjoy the world. Now I am certainly half-way dead and am only beginning to appreciate that your service and exceptional example is my only hope. I aspire to be of real use to you in your service to Srila Prabhupada now and life after life.
Aspiring to be one day situated in pure devotional service under your guidance and the guidance of your vigorous, tireless servants.
Wanting to be
Your real servant
Bal Gopal das
Baladeva Nitai das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances!
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance!
This year I wanted to make a simple offering, one of gratitude.
You are always reminding us Gurudeva that this world is not our home. “We tolerate this world like we would tolerate a downpour of rain.” I heard you once said to a godbrother of mine “It is not a cabaret.”
Time and time again in various lectures I listen to, you are so clearly discussing the realities of this world and of this body. And simultaneously you are urging us that if we just focus on service to Krishna and Krishna’s pleasure, then automatically we have the greatest wealth and the only thing that will actually satisfy us.
Just today I listened to a lecture where you were discussing the pitfalls of bodily identification and how fragile and meagre the body and its pleasures actually are.
“Just a simple problem with digestion and your whole world can be turned upside down. So much of the pleasure of the body is centred around eating. And that is just digestion, what to speak of other, more serious ailments for the body?!”
These are not the words that an optimistic sense enjoyer of the world hopes to hear. But every word is true. So easily all happiness can be stripped away from us if we put our hopes for fulfilment in this body. It is so fragile, so unpredictable, too many faults – not worth it!
But, of course, in this lecture you didn’t just stop there, leaving us hanging. You provided the one and only solution to the whole problem; the simple, sure, and yet very difficult alternative for stubborn residents of Kali Yuga like myself: If we just engage in Krishna’s service then this removes all bodily misidentification.
You call it “living like you are not the body”. If we actually centre out lives around Krishna’s service and absorb our consciousness in Krishna’s service then we are no longer in the material world, but are in the spiritual world. Wow! So simple, so perfect, and I’ve heard you say it so many times in countless different ways. But still so often I am swayed by the allurements from the material energy. Just a new update for my iPhone gets me excited into thinking that finally all my problems will be solved. My life will be so much better now that Apple’s coolest gadget just became more efficient to use. How many times do I have to fall for this same old story? Maya repackages her dog biscuit and makes it look tastier than ever, and I lean in and take a nibble, only to find the same old tasting thing that I thought I left behind six and a half years ago.
I am still fool number one. I put so much faith in this body and my false ego to bring the pleasure I am always anxious for. But if I just open my eyes and have a look around me, I can see that everything I need has already been provided for in this ashrama that you have so expertly set up. You have given me specific services according to my particular nature that I can fully absorb my consciousness in. My false ego struggles to admit it, but the most exciting and rewarding moments of my life have been very simple ones. Collecting money from university students before they bite into a plate of vegan lunch is so exciting. It is such a greater thrill than anything I could conjure up for myself, and definitely more exciting than anything Maya has ever conjured up for me. It fulfils the heart in such an unexpectedly ever-fresh way. And that is just one aspect of one of the services you have given me.
So today Gurudeva, I would simply like to say thank you!
Thank you Gurudeva for giving me so many amazing friends with whom I can hear and chant about Krishna with! Thank you for giving me the facility to read Srila Prabhupada’s books for two hours every day! Thank you for organising a streamlined and systematic diet focused around health. Ordinarily health is such an ordeal for a Kali Yuga refugee, but you have made it so simple and easy for us in the bramacari ashrama that we barely even have to think about it! Thank you Gurudeva for my graphic design service. I feel that so many of my psychological needs are taken care of with this service. Thank you for your mentor system! I can’t count how many times my spiritual life has been saved by the various mentors I have had over the few years that I have been practicing. Thank you Gurudeva for pulling me off the street and giving me the association of the devotees and the Hare Krishna maha-mantra. Thank you for giving me the only real wealth that I have.
I pray that some day soon I can finally say “no” to Maya’s stale dog biscuit and fully devote my life, energy and abilities to your service alone. After all, it is such a rare opportunity that I have and very few people in the world are as fortunate as me to even have the option to choose to do devotional service.
So thank you Gurudeva. Thank you so much for continuing to look after me and give me shelter every day!
Aspiring to be a better servant,
Baladeva Nitai das.
Please accept my humble obeisances!
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance!
This year I wanted to make a simple offering, one of gratitude.
You are always reminding us Gurudeva that this world is not our home. “We tolerate this world like we would tolerate a downpour of rain.” I heard you once said to a godbrother of mine “It is not a cabaret.”
Time and time again in various lectures I listen to, you are so clearly discussing the realities of this world and of this body. And simultaneously you are urging us that if we just focus on service to Krishna and Krishna’s pleasure, then automatically we have the greatest wealth and the only thing that will actually satisfy us.
Just today I listened to a lecture where you were discussing the pitfalls of bodily identification and how fragile and meagre the body and its pleasures actually are.
“Just a simple problem with digestion and your whole world can be turned upside down. So much of the pleasure of the body is centred around eating. And that is just digestion, what to speak of other, more serious ailments for the body?!”
These are not the words that an optimistic sense enjoyer of the world hopes to hear. But every word is true. So easily all happiness can be stripped away from us if we put our hopes for fulfilment in this body. It is so fragile, so unpredictable, too many faults – not worth it!
But, of course, in this lecture you didn’t just stop there, leaving us hanging. You provided the one and only solution to the whole problem; the simple, sure, and yet very difficult alternative for stubborn residents of Kali Yuga like myself: If we just engage in Krishna’s service then this removes all bodily misidentification.
You call it “living like you are not the body”. If we actually centre out lives around Krishna’s service and absorb our consciousness in Krishna’s service then we are no longer in the material world, but are in the spiritual world. Wow! So simple, so perfect, and I’ve heard you say it so many times in countless different ways. But still so often I am swayed by the allurements from the material energy. Just a new update for my iPhone gets me excited into thinking that finally all my problems will be solved. My life will be so much better now that Apple’s coolest gadget just became more efficient to use. How many times do I have to fall for this same old story? Maya repackages her dog biscuit and makes it look tastier than ever, and I lean in and take a nibble, only to find the same old tasting thing that I thought I left behind six and a half years ago.
I am still fool number one. I put so much faith in this body and my false ego to bring the pleasure I am always anxious for. But if I just open my eyes and have a look around me, I can see that everything I need has already been provided for in this ashrama that you have so expertly set up. You have given me specific services according to my particular nature that I can fully absorb my consciousness in. My false ego struggles to admit it, but the most exciting and rewarding moments of my life have been very simple ones. Collecting money from university students before they bite into a plate of vegan lunch is so exciting. It is such a greater thrill than anything I could conjure up for myself, and definitely more exciting than anything Maya has ever conjured up for me. It fulfils the heart in such an unexpectedly ever-fresh way. And that is just one aspect of one of the services you have given me.
So today Gurudeva, I would simply like to say thank you!
Thank you Gurudeva for giving me so many amazing friends with whom I can hear and chant about Krishna with! Thank you for giving me the facility to read Srila Prabhupada’s books for two hours every day! Thank you for organising a streamlined and systematic diet focused around health. Ordinarily health is such an ordeal for a Kali Yuga refugee, but you have made it so simple and easy for us in the bramacari ashrama that we barely even have to think about it! Thank you Gurudeva for my graphic design service. I feel that so many of my psychological needs are taken care of with this service. Thank you for your mentor system! I can’t count how many times my spiritual life has been saved by the various mentors I have had over the few years that I have been practicing. Thank you Gurudeva for pulling me off the street and giving me the association of the devotees and the Hare Krishna maha-mantra. Thank you for giving me the only real wealth that I have.
I pray that some day soon I can finally say “no” to Maya’s stale dog biscuit and fully devote my life, energy and abilities to your service alone. After all, it is such a rare opportunity that I have and very few people in the world are as fortunate as me to even have the option to choose to do devotional service.
So thank you Gurudeva. Thank you so much for continuing to look after me and give me shelter every day!
Aspiring to be a better servant,
Baladeva Nitai das.
Bali Daityaraja Dasa
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
On this auspicious day I would like to take this opportunity to humbly submit a few words of glorification in the dust of your lotus feet.
saṁsāra-dāvānala-līḍha-loka-
trāṇāya kāruṇya-ghanāghanatvam
prāptasya kalyāṇa-guṇārṇavasya
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
“The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy. Just as a cloud pours water on a forest fire to extinguish it, so the spiritual master delivers the materially afflicted world by extinguishing the blazing fire of material existence. I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master, who is an ocean of auspicious qualities.”
Just as a frog cannot understand the vastness of the ocean, I find it very difficult to fully conceive of the impact that one person can make when equipped with the mercy of the guru parampara.
I'm astonished to see the deep effect your association has made on the lives of many. Your association transforms average Kali-Yuga residents to great saints dedicated to giving the entirety of their lives for the pleasure of Krsna. This certainly shows the depth of your devotion and as a great wielder of that mercy.
Being a pure representative of the guru parampara, you act as a valiant hero capable of giving shelter to Kali's refugees. Gurudeva, you are a leader that is worth following.
Personifying dedication, you strongly endeavor to push forward this movement which Srila Prabhupada so painstakingly tried to establish.
Seeing your profound compassionate nature suggests you're beyond the bodily platform. Seeing the suffereing of so many people you disregard bodily comforts and act with utmost sincerety to give people the highest gift.
You are a hero in its greatest sense:
Sb 8.7.44
tapyante loka-tāpena
sādhavaḥ prāyaśo janāḥ
paramārādhanaṁ tad dhi puruṣasyākhilātmanaḥ
TRANSLATION
It is said that great personalities almost always accept voluntary suffering because of the suffering of people in general. This is considered the highest method of worshiping the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is present in everyone's heart.
You are indeed a weighty branch on this ISKCON tree as you unite and inspire many people from all walks of life with the great desire to become Krsna conscious. You provide stability, shelter and direction by which this tree can expand and flourish.
All your activities act as substantial instructions for bhakti aspirants to follow. Through your expert presentation of the sastra and personal example, you reveal to all that Krsna consciousness isn’t a far distant ideology, but a reality that can be experienced by all. A reality that captures the perfect emotional expression and satisfaction – something we all need to thrive in.
I hope one day I’m able to aquire just a fragment of your taste for chanting the holy names and your taste to read and distribute Srila Prabhupadas books.
Knowing that if I had that fortune, so many problems that arise through identifying with my body and mind would no longer affect me.
Thank you Gurudeva for providing stability and direction in my life and for the constant guidance and opportunity to assist you and Srila Prabhupada.
Recently having the opportunity to help bring people to the Mantra Lounge in Hamilton, I meditate how you came to NZ and did the same thing for the past twenty years. One point that I especially admire is your individual and personal care to make sure that no one misses out on the opportunity to become Krsna conscious, something that many devotees explain to be the reason they are here today.
I pray that my selfish conditioning be removed, so that I too can be a competent assistant in helping others.
Thank you for accepting someone like me as your disciple. Although I feel unqualified to have such a qualified spiritual master; being overly sentimental and weak, I desire greatly to become qualified.
Your servant,
Bali Daityaraja das.
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
On this auspicious day I would like to take this opportunity to humbly submit a few words of glorification in the dust of your lotus feet.
saṁsāra-dāvānala-līḍha-loka-
trāṇāya kāruṇya-ghanāghanatvam
prāptasya kalyāṇa-guṇārṇavasya
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
“The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy. Just as a cloud pours water on a forest fire to extinguish it, so the spiritual master delivers the materially afflicted world by extinguishing the blazing fire of material existence. I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master, who is an ocean of auspicious qualities.”
Just as a frog cannot understand the vastness of the ocean, I find it very difficult to fully conceive of the impact that one person can make when equipped with the mercy of the guru parampara.
I'm astonished to see the deep effect your association has made on the lives of many. Your association transforms average Kali-Yuga residents to great saints dedicated to giving the entirety of their lives for the pleasure of Krsna. This certainly shows the depth of your devotion and as a great wielder of that mercy.
Being a pure representative of the guru parampara, you act as a valiant hero capable of giving shelter to Kali's refugees. Gurudeva, you are a leader that is worth following.
Personifying dedication, you strongly endeavor to push forward this movement which Srila Prabhupada so painstakingly tried to establish.
Seeing your profound compassionate nature suggests you're beyond the bodily platform. Seeing the suffereing of so many people you disregard bodily comforts and act with utmost sincerety to give people the highest gift.
You are a hero in its greatest sense:
Sb 8.7.44
tapyante loka-tāpena
sādhavaḥ prāyaśo janāḥ
paramārādhanaṁ tad dhi puruṣasyākhilātmanaḥ
TRANSLATION
It is said that great personalities almost always accept voluntary suffering because of the suffering of people in general. This is considered the highest method of worshiping the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is present in everyone's heart.
You are indeed a weighty branch on this ISKCON tree as you unite and inspire many people from all walks of life with the great desire to become Krsna conscious. You provide stability, shelter and direction by which this tree can expand and flourish.
All your activities act as substantial instructions for bhakti aspirants to follow. Through your expert presentation of the sastra and personal example, you reveal to all that Krsna consciousness isn’t a far distant ideology, but a reality that can be experienced by all. A reality that captures the perfect emotional expression and satisfaction – something we all need to thrive in.
I hope one day I’m able to aquire just a fragment of your taste for chanting the holy names and your taste to read and distribute Srila Prabhupadas books.
Knowing that if I had that fortune, so many problems that arise through identifying with my body and mind would no longer affect me.
Thank you Gurudeva for providing stability and direction in my life and for the constant guidance and opportunity to assist you and Srila Prabhupada.
Recently having the opportunity to help bring people to the Mantra Lounge in Hamilton, I meditate how you came to NZ and did the same thing for the past twenty years. One point that I especially admire is your individual and personal care to make sure that no one misses out on the opportunity to become Krsna conscious, something that many devotees explain to be the reason they are here today.
I pray that my selfish conditioning be removed, so that I too can be a competent assistant in helping others.
Thank you for accepting someone like me as your disciple. Although I feel unqualified to have such a qualified spiritual master; being overly sentimental and weak, I desire greatly to become qualified.
Your servant,
Bali Daityaraja das.
Bhadrasena
Vyasa Puja Gurudveva 2017
Dear Srila Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Oh Vaisnava thakura, oh you who are most dear to Krishna!
As fool number one, i stand before you with folded hands in a vain attempt to try to glorify you on this most auspicious day of your appearance. Please bless me with the ability to do so, for without your blessings this is certainly not possible for a fool like me.
As an aspiring neophyte and as an continual offender, i am only able to begin to understand your stature and countenance
on account of my slight willingness to see the ever increasing canyon between myself and personalities like you. The greater this gap or distance expands, alongside the dawning of my own imperfections and conditioning, the more my familiarity & offensive attitude towards you dissipates. As my pride and illusory attempt at trying to approach your stature crumbles and dissolves, the resultant gift of trying to glorify you has become naturally easier. With this dawning realisation and the acknowledgement of the dog eating dancing prostitute in my heart, the understanding of your stature and greatness has become possible.
As a result, i can now begin to truly understand my great fortune to have such a bona fide spiritual master such as you. My heart is jumping for joy at the sheer unexpected good fortune i have received. A spiritual master whose character and active service perfectly aligns with our previous acharyas. You imbibe such patience and tolerance i thought i could imitate. What a fool i am. In the face of such challenges and adversity from all sides, as you try to expand, increase, initiate, renovate and revive KC on so many continents, you have remained steadfast and one hundred per cent determined to serve Srila Prabhupada’s mission and desires in all circumstances. As Sivarama swami said in one lecture at the Ukraine festival this year, “ After 40 years or more serving Srila Prabhupada, i am black and blue “, like someone who has been beaten with a stick all over and bruised. Similarly, you have endured such sacrifices and tribulations for the purpose of serving your spiritual master. You are a true servant and spiritual personality.
In addition to these services, you deliver classes that reveal, in their content and structure, your expertise. You cover topics and themes that relate to all levels of devotees and at the same time you wrap them up with practical and contemporary realities. Another quality of a Vaisnava. Delivering the message according to time place and circumstance.
Importantly i have realised deeper that i have to come to terms with the reality that learning and understanding KC, and being able to act on this knowledge, is very hard and very much lacking in me. The journey is more one of pain and disappointment than joy. It is no small thing to act on what we read and understand. However, in you, there is no disparity or contradiction in what you say and what you do. A true Vaisnava.
On this day of your appearance, i present this puny offering to show my appreciation and love for you despite my lacking and huge short comings. As my spiritual master, and as your disciple, i wish to beg for your mercy and read an excerpt from the Manah siksha to illustrate how dear you are to me and emphasise how important you are to my attempt to approach the supreme goal of life.
Visvanatha Cakravarti thakura explains in the Bhakti Rasamrita Sindhu (1.2.228). Here he says there that, in one sense the Vaisnavas are stronger than Krishna. He says that association with Krishna is not so important, for association with Krishna may or may not give you taste. However, association with Vaisnavas who have a taste will impart that taste to us, because we will feel their taste reflected in our consciousness. Just like a sense enjoyer may associate with a women, but he may or not be attracted to her. But if he associates with a man who is attached to women, then he will feel his taste through associating with him, and he will inevitably get attached too. Therefore, the only way to protect ourselves from degradation is to call out to the Vaisnavas.
Without Vaisnavas like you who actually have taste, what hope is there for us? You are present as Krishna’s Karuna sakti and your mercy is manifest by engaging others in service to Krishna.
O great Vaisnava, I simply beg and request to please allow myself and family to continue to be engaged in your service. This is how we actually associate with you and get a taste for devotional service.
Oh Vaisnava! I am running after you, please give me service to Krishna !! Without you there is actually no hope!
Your servant and disciple
Bhadrasena das
Dear Srila Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Oh Vaisnava thakura, oh you who are most dear to Krishna!
As fool number one, i stand before you with folded hands in a vain attempt to try to glorify you on this most auspicious day of your appearance. Please bless me with the ability to do so, for without your blessings this is certainly not possible for a fool like me.
As an aspiring neophyte and as an continual offender, i am only able to begin to understand your stature and countenance
on account of my slight willingness to see the ever increasing canyon between myself and personalities like you. The greater this gap or distance expands, alongside the dawning of my own imperfections and conditioning, the more my familiarity & offensive attitude towards you dissipates. As my pride and illusory attempt at trying to approach your stature crumbles and dissolves, the resultant gift of trying to glorify you has become naturally easier. With this dawning realisation and the acknowledgement of the dog eating dancing prostitute in my heart, the understanding of your stature and greatness has become possible.
As a result, i can now begin to truly understand my great fortune to have such a bona fide spiritual master such as you. My heart is jumping for joy at the sheer unexpected good fortune i have received. A spiritual master whose character and active service perfectly aligns with our previous acharyas. You imbibe such patience and tolerance i thought i could imitate. What a fool i am. In the face of such challenges and adversity from all sides, as you try to expand, increase, initiate, renovate and revive KC on so many continents, you have remained steadfast and one hundred per cent determined to serve Srila Prabhupada’s mission and desires in all circumstances. As Sivarama swami said in one lecture at the Ukraine festival this year, “ After 40 years or more serving Srila Prabhupada, i am black and blue “, like someone who has been beaten with a stick all over and bruised. Similarly, you have endured such sacrifices and tribulations for the purpose of serving your spiritual master. You are a true servant and spiritual personality.
In addition to these services, you deliver classes that reveal, in their content and structure, your expertise. You cover topics and themes that relate to all levels of devotees and at the same time you wrap them up with practical and contemporary realities. Another quality of a Vaisnava. Delivering the message according to time place and circumstance.
Importantly i have realised deeper that i have to come to terms with the reality that learning and understanding KC, and being able to act on this knowledge, is very hard and very much lacking in me. The journey is more one of pain and disappointment than joy. It is no small thing to act on what we read and understand. However, in you, there is no disparity or contradiction in what you say and what you do. A true Vaisnava.
On this day of your appearance, i present this puny offering to show my appreciation and love for you despite my lacking and huge short comings. As my spiritual master, and as your disciple, i wish to beg for your mercy and read an excerpt from the Manah siksha to illustrate how dear you are to me and emphasise how important you are to my attempt to approach the supreme goal of life.
Visvanatha Cakravarti thakura explains in the Bhakti Rasamrita Sindhu (1.2.228). Here he says there that, in one sense the Vaisnavas are stronger than Krishna. He says that association with Krishna is not so important, for association with Krishna may or may not give you taste. However, association with Vaisnavas who have a taste will impart that taste to us, because we will feel their taste reflected in our consciousness. Just like a sense enjoyer may associate with a women, but he may or not be attracted to her. But if he associates with a man who is attached to women, then he will feel his taste through associating with him, and he will inevitably get attached too. Therefore, the only way to protect ourselves from degradation is to call out to the Vaisnavas.
Without Vaisnavas like you who actually have taste, what hope is there for us? You are present as Krishna’s Karuna sakti and your mercy is manifest by engaging others in service to Krishna.
O great Vaisnava, I simply beg and request to please allow myself and family to continue to be engaged in your service. This is how we actually associate with you and get a taste for devotional service.
Oh Vaisnava! I am running after you, please give me service to Krishna !! Without you there is actually no hope!
Your servant and disciple
Bhadrasena das
Bhakta Ben
Dear Devamrita Swami
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
I'm not really sure what to write, because at this point I'm quite confused about life.
I more or less don't know why I exist or what I'm doing with my life.
I don't truly know who I am, but apparently I'm not this body which, for some reason, I've identified with for many years.
I don't truly know who Krsna really is, aside from things I've heard.
I don't know what the true goal of devotional service is in reality, the main reason I practice is because I have enough experience and knowledge from reading, doing service, chanting and hearing from devotees to know without doubt that Krsna consciousness is the highest goal of life and that we should use our human bodies to aquire it before we leave them.
So ultimately I'm quite confused.
As long as we're not fully awakened to Krsna consciousness we're more or less blind.
Not blind in a symbolic way, but we're genuinely blind because nothing we do has anything to do with our true selves.
It could also be said that we're dead or asleep, from the spiritual point of view.
I remember you gave one example in a class once that we're like a certain kind of blind person who, although they're totally blind, they mistake the images in their heads as proper vision. So they think they know where they're going and what they're doing but in reality, from the vision of a person who's not blind and whos watching, they're just tripping over couches and smashing into walls and just hurting themselves majorly.
So that's what we're like as conditioned souls.
With complete conviction we think "I know what I'm doing, I know what's right and what's best for me" but from the vision of somebody more sober and with clearer, spiritual vision, we just look like those confused blind people.
So, although I've read about it so many times, in reality I don't know what's my highest benefit. Because I'm blind, I mistake the temporary pleasures of this world, which I'm habituated to taking shelter of and which I consider so normal and real to be my highest interest.
But according to the devotees and the Sastra, this is not the case.
In fact, they say that actually it's the opposite.
What we consider to be our greatest interest is actually our greatest enemy.
Prabhupada says in one commentary in the Bhagavad Gita, something along the lines of "the feeling of material happiness in this world is actually our greatest enemy" (those are not the exact words).
It's our greatest enemy because it cheats us into having false hopes for peace and happiness within the material world and we get so absorbed in these feelings of happiness that we forget that there's problems and anxieties right around the corner.
So it's like a nice muffin or tasty stack of sweets sitting on a hole covered by leaves.
It seems nice, but it's really there to lure you in and as soon as you think you have it, you fall in the hole and there's anxieties.
So that's how Maya keeps us trapped.
And anxieties are a promise in this world, because even if you live a life which is pretty easy going, still death is promised for all of us.
As it's said by one great personality "the most amazing thing in this world is that even though we see others die everyday, still we think that death will never come for us".
Anyway, I pray that some day I can develop a genuine desire for Krsna consciousness and rather than just repeating things I've heard I can take the words of the Sastra and the Sadhus into my heart fully and actually LIVE Krsna consciousness purely rather than just talk about it and speculate about it while maintaining material attachment.
Hare Krsna
Your aspiring servant
Bhakta Ben
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
I'm not really sure what to write, because at this point I'm quite confused about life.
I more or less don't know why I exist or what I'm doing with my life.
I don't truly know who I am, but apparently I'm not this body which, for some reason, I've identified with for many years.
I don't truly know who Krsna really is, aside from things I've heard.
I don't know what the true goal of devotional service is in reality, the main reason I practice is because I have enough experience and knowledge from reading, doing service, chanting and hearing from devotees to know without doubt that Krsna consciousness is the highest goal of life and that we should use our human bodies to aquire it before we leave them.
So ultimately I'm quite confused.
As long as we're not fully awakened to Krsna consciousness we're more or less blind.
Not blind in a symbolic way, but we're genuinely blind because nothing we do has anything to do with our true selves.
It could also be said that we're dead or asleep, from the spiritual point of view.
I remember you gave one example in a class once that we're like a certain kind of blind person who, although they're totally blind, they mistake the images in their heads as proper vision. So they think they know where they're going and what they're doing but in reality, from the vision of a person who's not blind and whos watching, they're just tripping over couches and smashing into walls and just hurting themselves majorly.
So that's what we're like as conditioned souls.
With complete conviction we think "I know what I'm doing, I know what's right and what's best for me" but from the vision of somebody more sober and with clearer, spiritual vision, we just look like those confused blind people.
So, although I've read about it so many times, in reality I don't know what's my highest benefit. Because I'm blind, I mistake the temporary pleasures of this world, which I'm habituated to taking shelter of and which I consider so normal and real to be my highest interest.
But according to the devotees and the Sastra, this is not the case.
In fact, they say that actually it's the opposite.
What we consider to be our greatest interest is actually our greatest enemy.
Prabhupada says in one commentary in the Bhagavad Gita, something along the lines of "the feeling of material happiness in this world is actually our greatest enemy" (those are not the exact words).
It's our greatest enemy because it cheats us into having false hopes for peace and happiness within the material world and we get so absorbed in these feelings of happiness that we forget that there's problems and anxieties right around the corner.
So it's like a nice muffin or tasty stack of sweets sitting on a hole covered by leaves.
It seems nice, but it's really there to lure you in and as soon as you think you have it, you fall in the hole and there's anxieties.
So that's how Maya keeps us trapped.
And anxieties are a promise in this world, because even if you live a life which is pretty easy going, still death is promised for all of us.
As it's said by one great personality "the most amazing thing in this world is that even though we see others die everyday, still we think that death will never come for us".
Anyway, I pray that some day I can develop a genuine desire for Krsna consciousness and rather than just repeating things I've heard I can take the words of the Sastra and the Sadhus into my heart fully and actually LIVE Krsna consciousness purely rather than just talk about it and speculate about it while maintaining material attachment.
Hare Krsna
Your aspiring servant
Bhakta Ben
Bhakta Etienne
Dear Devamrita Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupada!
On the occasion of your Vyasa-puja, I have been contemplating how hard it was to be genuinely grateful in this life. For years, I have been thanking maya for the unnatural happiness she was providing, without even noticing how she was always dragging me further away from Kṛṣṇa.
Why do I have to force myself in order to praise Kṛṣṇa and his devotees? Why do my body and mind tell me that being everyone’s servant is abnormal when my intelligence now demonstrates that it actually is my right position? Why can’t I always hold the vision of you being my rescuer from this ocean of material sufferings when you empowered your disciple Dayamaya Devi Dasi to take me from the streets of New Zealand and lead me to you?
You always remind us that Bhakti-yoga is a gradual process, and that we should develop the patience to see the magic happening when we follow it nicely. In a year of service under your shelter, I have been noticing the gradual evolution of my appreciation for you.
In total lack of knowledge, at first seeing you as a complete stranger with a nice educational background, then a manipulative guru, a spiritual policeman, a tour operator leading me to new temples around the world, a guide for material satisfaction in spiritual life, etc., with the help of the devotees, I have been slowly developing a vision that allows me today to see you as my greatest well-wisher to whom I owe the fantastic life of devotional service I am blessed to live now.
With simple but deep instructions as: “Just keep on chanting Hare Krsna”, or “Please read Prabhupada’s books regularly”, “Dive deep into your sankirtan service”, you gave me the precious guidance I am now trying to appreciate to the fullest.
Indeed, since you directed me to the Welsh yatra, there is not a day I am not actually feeling grateful for being in such incredible association. But, as my heart is being covered by ignorance, I am still addressing this gratitude to the impersonal wind. However, on this most auspicious day, I wish to express it fully to you, as you showered me with all your love and mercy with no apparent cause for I certainly never deserved it, being most fallen and unqualified.
May I someday be able to offer you a special seat in my heart, once cleansed from all the dirt accumulated since time immemorial. May I someday find the determination to please you by executing my services nicely without deviating from the vision of the Truth. May I always be able to remember your glories, because you are my deliverer from this dreadful cycle of birth and death and that without you, I would be still lost and incomplete.
Aspiring to become your humble servant,
Bhakta Etienne
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupada!
On the occasion of your Vyasa-puja, I have been contemplating how hard it was to be genuinely grateful in this life. For years, I have been thanking maya for the unnatural happiness she was providing, without even noticing how she was always dragging me further away from Kṛṣṇa.
Why do I have to force myself in order to praise Kṛṣṇa and his devotees? Why do my body and mind tell me that being everyone’s servant is abnormal when my intelligence now demonstrates that it actually is my right position? Why can’t I always hold the vision of you being my rescuer from this ocean of material sufferings when you empowered your disciple Dayamaya Devi Dasi to take me from the streets of New Zealand and lead me to you?
You always remind us that Bhakti-yoga is a gradual process, and that we should develop the patience to see the magic happening when we follow it nicely. In a year of service under your shelter, I have been noticing the gradual evolution of my appreciation for you.
In total lack of knowledge, at first seeing you as a complete stranger with a nice educational background, then a manipulative guru, a spiritual policeman, a tour operator leading me to new temples around the world, a guide for material satisfaction in spiritual life, etc., with the help of the devotees, I have been slowly developing a vision that allows me today to see you as my greatest well-wisher to whom I owe the fantastic life of devotional service I am blessed to live now.
With simple but deep instructions as: “Just keep on chanting Hare Krsna”, or “Please read Prabhupada’s books regularly”, “Dive deep into your sankirtan service”, you gave me the precious guidance I am now trying to appreciate to the fullest.
Indeed, since you directed me to the Welsh yatra, there is not a day I am not actually feeling grateful for being in such incredible association. But, as my heart is being covered by ignorance, I am still addressing this gratitude to the impersonal wind. However, on this most auspicious day, I wish to express it fully to you, as you showered me with all your love and mercy with no apparent cause for I certainly never deserved it, being most fallen and unqualified.
May I someday be able to offer you a special seat in my heart, once cleansed from all the dirt accumulated since time immemorial. May I someday find the determination to please you by executing my services nicely without deviating from the vision of the Truth. May I always be able to remember your glories, because you are my deliverer from this dreadful cycle of birth and death and that without you, I would be still lost and incomplete.
Aspiring to become your humble servant,
Bhakta Etienne
Bhakta Michael
Dear Devamrita Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada!
All glories to you on the auspicious day of your appearance! As I am sitting here typing these words to express myself I cannot keep my eyes from welling up with tears of love and affection as I think about what my life might have become without the great fortune of meeting you, and having the opportunity to serve the devotees who bow down at your lotus feet with great love and affection. My feelings of gratitude are beyond my capacity to express. The last time I had the great fortune of speaking with you in person you gave me simple advice to cease my habits of substance intoxication. At that time I knew deep within my heart that in order to advance in spiritual life I had to sober up, and I sincerely wanted to, but until that point I was just not ready to expend the energy to complete such a difficult task. The desire was in my heart but it was subdued by the illusory energy, and when you, a pure representative of Krsna, spoke such sobering words to me, it was like a full circle had been completed and I was then able to cultivate the necessary motivation and determination. Since then I have been working diligently to serve my fellow devotees here in Philadelphia, and working diligently to purify myself so I may better serve them and please you. I pray that I may have the opportunity to serve you more and more, and hopefully one day take shelter of your lotus feet. My desire is to become a great asset to you so you may direct me on how to spread the glories of Lord Krsna throughout Philadelphia, and spread your mercy to the fallen souls as you so kindly did to me. If it wasn’t for your care and mercy I would’t be in the wonderful position that I am in today, and therefore I am sincerely forever grateful.
Your Servant,
Bhakta Michael
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada!
All glories to you on the auspicious day of your appearance! As I am sitting here typing these words to express myself I cannot keep my eyes from welling up with tears of love and affection as I think about what my life might have become without the great fortune of meeting you, and having the opportunity to serve the devotees who bow down at your lotus feet with great love and affection. My feelings of gratitude are beyond my capacity to express. The last time I had the great fortune of speaking with you in person you gave me simple advice to cease my habits of substance intoxication. At that time I knew deep within my heart that in order to advance in spiritual life I had to sober up, and I sincerely wanted to, but until that point I was just not ready to expend the energy to complete such a difficult task. The desire was in my heart but it was subdued by the illusory energy, and when you, a pure representative of Krsna, spoke such sobering words to me, it was like a full circle had been completed and I was then able to cultivate the necessary motivation and determination. Since then I have been working diligently to serve my fellow devotees here in Philadelphia, and working diligently to purify myself so I may better serve them and please you. I pray that I may have the opportunity to serve you more and more, and hopefully one day take shelter of your lotus feet. My desire is to become a great asset to you so you may direct me on how to spread the glories of Lord Krsna throughout Philadelphia, and spread your mercy to the fallen souls as you so kindly did to me. If it wasn’t for your care and mercy I would’t be in the wonderful position that I am in today, and therefore I am sincerely forever grateful.
Your Servant,
Bhakta Michael
Bhakta Ryan Powle
Dear Devamrita Swami Maharaja
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanyas sankirtan mission!
nama oṁ viṣṇu pādāya kṛṣṇa-preṣthāya bhūtale
śrīmate devāmṛta swāmīn iti nāmine
pracāre pūrva-dākṣyaṁ ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyaṁ yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Please bear with me as I attempt to submit this small offering of gratitude and glorification of such a caring, compassionate and exalted Vaisnava.
I see with greater depth, how caring a Father you really are, to me and many others. There are so many varieties of parents, those we're born from, those we take guidance from, but you have re-defined this word for me.
As I recall reading in a memory of Srila Prabhupada's visit to Australia, on his passport, where it said 'Fathers name' he had aptly written "The late Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja". With good reason, to some degree I can understand why.
'A man in relation to his child or children'
You far exceed the title of man, but as our society is one based on relationships, and the great variety of individuals willingly accepting you as their spiritual father, you have helped me to comprehend a more substantial meaning from this definition.
Always wanting the best for, and always encouraging to bring the best out of them, you guide us, and help us to grow to really expand our potential as aspiring devotees of the Lord.
Sometimes the Father must lovingly chastise the child, for the childs benefit, so he may learn and improve. I see your love in all these forms of action, as you endlessly give us your time, attention and nurture, so that our spiritual potency may be unearthed after lifetimes of suffering.
I am eternally at your service, Gurudeva.
In a recent class by one of your very sincere and scholarly brahmacari disciples, he mentioned - A vaisnava lives for others.
No longer is this world, this lifetime, a means for our sensual enjoyment, a personal voyage of self transformation, but simultaneously we are living, breathing, sustained, by this overwhelming incessant urge to help others.
I see this in your mood each time you visit Auckland. I see your great determination to preach this purifying message of Lord Hari, at any cost to personal or bodily difficulties. Constant flights, endless nights, jet lag, travel time, your determination to give everything you have for the benefit of others, really is breath-taking.
You inspire me to great lengths to follow this example to the best I can, as I find in book distribution, and loft service, having so much opportunity, trying to apply this mood of living for others, and how powerfully it can give me some shadow of a taste for finding joy in others joy.
Atmavat sarva-bhutesu.
6:10:9 - If one is unhappy to see the distress of other living beings and happy to see their happiness, his religious principles are appreciated as imperishable as exalted persons who are considered pious and benevolent.
This defines merely one of your qualities so superbly.
My life unraveling day by day;
Spiraling out of control, a very thin and short thread;
Tearing and tangling, getting caught in the dirt;
By your sweet will alone was I saved from the dead.
This poor lost and confused soul;
Paying a price of the ultimate toll;
Suddenly within a limited sight;
A moon arose with light so bright.
My only hope as I clung to your feet;
Considering my luck as simply a dream;
Little did I know you were the beaming sun;
As I began to perceive you, in such high esteem.
Ascending steep stairs of anarthas, desires left behind;
Only knowing the goal, rather than what I'd find;
Unworthy of mercy, feeling so sadly blind;
Guiding me with care, Gurudeva you have been so kind.
Beginning this journey at slow pace
These deep rooted challenges I face
Your lotus feet the starting base
In receiving your compassionate grace.
As our Lord Krsna exclaims with verve
Carrying what we have and what we lack he preserves
Keeping me strong and tolerating me with reserve;
Gurudeva please, tell me how I may best serve.
I owe everything I have to you, and I see it as my duty, to reciprocate and do everything I can for you, so that you may be pleased, so our founder acarya Srila Prabhupada can be pleased.
This humble fool sincerely requests your blessings that I may be constantly engaged in devotional service and remain steady in determination and patience as I execute your instructions to the best of my ability.
Your aspiring servant.
Bhakta Ryan.
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanyas sankirtan mission!
nama oṁ viṣṇu pādāya kṛṣṇa-preṣthāya bhūtale
śrīmate devāmṛta swāmīn iti nāmine
pracāre pūrva-dākṣyaṁ ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyaṁ yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Please bear with me as I attempt to submit this small offering of gratitude and glorification of such a caring, compassionate and exalted Vaisnava.
I see with greater depth, how caring a Father you really are, to me and many others. There are so many varieties of parents, those we're born from, those we take guidance from, but you have re-defined this word for me.
As I recall reading in a memory of Srila Prabhupada's visit to Australia, on his passport, where it said 'Fathers name' he had aptly written "The late Sri Srimad Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Goswami Maharaja". With good reason, to some degree I can understand why.
'A man in relation to his child or children'
You far exceed the title of man, but as our society is one based on relationships, and the great variety of individuals willingly accepting you as their spiritual father, you have helped me to comprehend a more substantial meaning from this definition.
Always wanting the best for, and always encouraging to bring the best out of them, you guide us, and help us to grow to really expand our potential as aspiring devotees of the Lord.
Sometimes the Father must lovingly chastise the child, for the childs benefit, so he may learn and improve. I see your love in all these forms of action, as you endlessly give us your time, attention and nurture, so that our spiritual potency may be unearthed after lifetimes of suffering.
I am eternally at your service, Gurudeva.
In a recent class by one of your very sincere and scholarly brahmacari disciples, he mentioned - A vaisnava lives for others.
No longer is this world, this lifetime, a means for our sensual enjoyment, a personal voyage of self transformation, but simultaneously we are living, breathing, sustained, by this overwhelming incessant urge to help others.
I see this in your mood each time you visit Auckland. I see your great determination to preach this purifying message of Lord Hari, at any cost to personal or bodily difficulties. Constant flights, endless nights, jet lag, travel time, your determination to give everything you have for the benefit of others, really is breath-taking.
You inspire me to great lengths to follow this example to the best I can, as I find in book distribution, and loft service, having so much opportunity, trying to apply this mood of living for others, and how powerfully it can give me some shadow of a taste for finding joy in others joy.
Atmavat sarva-bhutesu.
6:10:9 - If one is unhappy to see the distress of other living beings and happy to see their happiness, his religious principles are appreciated as imperishable as exalted persons who are considered pious and benevolent.
This defines merely one of your qualities so superbly.
My life unraveling day by day;
Spiraling out of control, a very thin and short thread;
Tearing and tangling, getting caught in the dirt;
By your sweet will alone was I saved from the dead.
This poor lost and confused soul;
Paying a price of the ultimate toll;
Suddenly within a limited sight;
A moon arose with light so bright.
My only hope as I clung to your feet;
Considering my luck as simply a dream;
Little did I know you were the beaming sun;
As I began to perceive you, in such high esteem.
Ascending steep stairs of anarthas, desires left behind;
Only knowing the goal, rather than what I'd find;
Unworthy of mercy, feeling so sadly blind;
Guiding me with care, Gurudeva you have been so kind.
Beginning this journey at slow pace
These deep rooted challenges I face
Your lotus feet the starting base
In receiving your compassionate grace.
As our Lord Krsna exclaims with verve
Carrying what we have and what we lack he preserves
Keeping me strong and tolerating me with reserve;
Gurudeva please, tell me how I may best serve.
I owe everything I have to you, and I see it as my duty, to reciprocate and do everything I can for you, so that you may be pleased, so our founder acarya Srila Prabhupada can be pleased.
This humble fool sincerely requests your blessings that I may be constantly engaged in devotional service and remain steady in determination and patience as I execute your instructions to the best of my ability.
Your aspiring servant.
Bhakta Ryan.
Bhakta Sam
Nama om visnu padaya krsna prestaya bhu-tale,
Srimate Devamrita Swamin iti namine.
Pracare purva daksyam ca, bhaktacara pravinata,
Pararthatapi karunyam, yasya sarve ca te namah.
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to you on this jubilant day of your appearance.
In an effort to praise you, and offer my obeisances as fully as possible, I had the idea to take each verse of Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura's 'Sri Sri Guru-astaka' prayers and attempt to explain how each verse perfectly describes your character. Please excuse any inebrieties in this attempt, due to my limited realisation and immaturity, and I beg that you please accept my humble attempt to praise you.
1.
Your demeanour is just like a cloud, as you profusely shower mercy upon we fallen souls of the world, and for this reason, the first verse is most applicable to your character. You travel tirelessly giving the nectar of your association to so many public engagements, classes, personal darsanas and, it is my experience, that your merciful glance can surely extinguish the blazing fire of material existence. By your expert preaching, you lead the world in making the unlimited ocean of Krsna's mercy easily available to so many sufferers of conditioned life. It is also practically seen that you exhibit all the good qualities mentioned in the sastras in great abundance, providing the ideal, effulgent example of spiritual perfection for such fallen spiritual aspirants as myself. I beg that I will never deprive myself of the eligibility to be situated under that magnanimous cloud of your mercy and, more so, that you will engage me as an instrument in your symphonious arrangement for distributing that soothing rain of Krsna's mercy to others; therefore, I offer my respectful obeisances to your lotus feet.
2.
Lord Caitanya's sankirtana movement emanates from you and, when you engage in congregational chanting, you exhibit the symptoms of ecstasy and inspire all those around you to give their hearts in a loving call of service to the Supreme Person, Sri Krsna. Your kirtana is instantly enlivening, with an indescribable potency to make even unfortunate persons who are entrenched in the lower modes of nature become overwhelmed; we feel joy brimming in our chests to behold, through our ears, your call of divine love, Hare Krsna, and we become very eager to give our life in pursuit of such a mellow, that we may be similarly situated in crying out with heart and soul to Krsna, as you so wonderfully demonstrate. As Acarya Visvanatha states, you are 'always gladdened' by the sankirtana movement and begging your approval and seeking your help, I thank you profusely for your instruction that I should give my full energies to distributing Srila Prabhupada's books. I hope, by your mercy, to continue this activity for the rest of my life, with ever increasing intensity, that you may be gladdened, and I may remain situated, perpetually in surrender and obeisances to your lotus feet.
3.
Here in Cardiff, your glorious disciples are always worshiping Sri Sri Gaura Nitai and, as described in the third verse, they dress them with love and affection, decorating them tastefully with flowers and ornaments. They do this in the mood of assisting you in your service to the Deity. By your mercy I am engaged as an assistant in ISKCON Wales, trying to give my life in an attempt to arrange for a beautiful temple in which to worship Krsna very opulently, attracting thousands of wandering jivas to take shelter there. I pray that you will keep me always engaged in the humble service of Ty Krsna Cymru, in whatever capacity is most pleasing to Srila Prabhupada and Gaura Nitai; desiring to be perpetually humbled by menial service, and always a part of the bhakti community of ISKCON Wales, please let me offer my humble obeisances to your lotus feet.
4.
As your disciples offer delicious preparations to you, you certainly offer them to your spiritual master, and, in turn, they are passed all the way up to Radha and Krsna, who mercifully send them back down to us to be relished as their prasadam. You are then, as Srila Visvanatha states, very satisfied to see that we are happily taking these remnants sumptuously, and you have confirmed this to me by encouragingly instructing me in taking prasada to my full satisfaction – especially on feast days! In this way you have shown your deep realization on this tattva and increased my faith in the potency of Krsna’s remnants. I pray that I may continue offer and taste such purifying prasada for the rest of my life, hence offering my obeisances to your lotus feet.
5.
It is obvious to see that you are always absorbed in hearing, chanting and remembering Krsna’s pastimes and you are expert in explaining even his most intimate mellows of conjugal love appropriately to any audience you address. These nectarean talks are sublimely relishable and surely very pleasing to Krsna. It seems you understand and know Krsna intimately, relishing a deep and private relationship with him unfathomable to any outsider. Also, by demonstrating your love for reading Prabhupada’s books, you have given me the greatest inspiration to dedicate my life to their study, aspiring to taste and relish them the way you do. Your superlative classes, discussions and writings always seem to offer me step-by-step instructions, guiding me in my spiritual life and, for me, the hearing of them seems to be the perfection of my existence. I aspire to be situated always in obeisances to your lotus feet, that I may always hear, without stoppage, your recitation of topics about Krsna.
6.
As there is no doubt that you have arranged for so many of Krsna’s lost children to meet him and reengage in their eternal service to him, you certainly fit the description of the sixth verse, as an assistant of the gopis who make so many tasteful arrangements for Radha and Krsna’s loving affairs in the groves of Vraja. Your mantra of ‘we make it easy’, by which you expertly preach Krsna Consciousness allows streams of non-devotees to accept the activities of bhakti yoga and, when they, ultimately, re-enter Krsna’s pastimes in Vrndavana, the Lord and his associates must be so grateful to you, for without your mercy we would still likely be wandering within maya’s kingdom. It is my desire to become absorbed in assisting you, and those other expert assistants of the gopis who so nicely care of me in my day to day life, in that confidential service of always welcoming new candidates to take part in the blessed life of Krsna consciousness; a desire which can only be fulfilled if I can remain perpetually situated in obeisances to your lotus feet.
7.
As already explained, you are a most confidential servitor of Krsna, and therefore, the scriptures conclude that you should be honoured as much as the Lord. In Sri Caitanya Caritamrta (Adi 1.44-45), it is said ‘Although I know that my spiritual master is a servitor of Sri Caitanya, I know him also as I plenary manifestation of the Lord. According to the deliberate opinion of all revealed scriptures, the spiritual master is nondifferent from Krsna. Lord Krsna in the form of the spiritual master delivers his devotees.’ Though it is overwhelming to consider the impact of this statement, I do not doubt its accuracy when evaluating the impact you have had on my life, in such a short space of time. I therefore beg to be able to honour and worship you properly in all aspects of my life, always endeavouring to properly offer my respectful obeisances to your lotus feet.
8.
The last verse of Srila Visvanatha’s prayers is a reminder that the only way to please the Supreme Lord, Krsna, is through the spiritual master, and that without pleasing the spiritual master it is impossible to achieve Krsna’s favour. I am very inattentive and whimsical and, therefore, worried that I will not be able to serve you sufficiently in this lifetime. And so, on the day of your appearance, I am sincerely praying for your mercy, by which I may be able to always remember and praise you, devoting myself to your service that I may somehow or other please you. Please help me to make this the mood of my life, an ongoing attempt to become situated in obeisances at your lotus feet.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhakta Sam
Srimate Devamrita Swamin iti namine.
Pracare purva daksyam ca, bhaktacara pravinata,
Pararthatapi karunyam, yasya sarve ca te namah.
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to you on this jubilant day of your appearance.
In an effort to praise you, and offer my obeisances as fully as possible, I had the idea to take each verse of Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakura's 'Sri Sri Guru-astaka' prayers and attempt to explain how each verse perfectly describes your character. Please excuse any inebrieties in this attempt, due to my limited realisation and immaturity, and I beg that you please accept my humble attempt to praise you.
1.
Your demeanour is just like a cloud, as you profusely shower mercy upon we fallen souls of the world, and for this reason, the first verse is most applicable to your character. You travel tirelessly giving the nectar of your association to so many public engagements, classes, personal darsanas and, it is my experience, that your merciful glance can surely extinguish the blazing fire of material existence. By your expert preaching, you lead the world in making the unlimited ocean of Krsna's mercy easily available to so many sufferers of conditioned life. It is also practically seen that you exhibit all the good qualities mentioned in the sastras in great abundance, providing the ideal, effulgent example of spiritual perfection for such fallen spiritual aspirants as myself. I beg that I will never deprive myself of the eligibility to be situated under that magnanimous cloud of your mercy and, more so, that you will engage me as an instrument in your symphonious arrangement for distributing that soothing rain of Krsna's mercy to others; therefore, I offer my respectful obeisances to your lotus feet.
2.
Lord Caitanya's sankirtana movement emanates from you and, when you engage in congregational chanting, you exhibit the symptoms of ecstasy and inspire all those around you to give their hearts in a loving call of service to the Supreme Person, Sri Krsna. Your kirtana is instantly enlivening, with an indescribable potency to make even unfortunate persons who are entrenched in the lower modes of nature become overwhelmed; we feel joy brimming in our chests to behold, through our ears, your call of divine love, Hare Krsna, and we become very eager to give our life in pursuit of such a mellow, that we may be similarly situated in crying out with heart and soul to Krsna, as you so wonderfully demonstrate. As Acarya Visvanatha states, you are 'always gladdened' by the sankirtana movement and begging your approval and seeking your help, I thank you profusely for your instruction that I should give my full energies to distributing Srila Prabhupada's books. I hope, by your mercy, to continue this activity for the rest of my life, with ever increasing intensity, that you may be gladdened, and I may remain situated, perpetually in surrender and obeisances to your lotus feet.
3.
Here in Cardiff, your glorious disciples are always worshiping Sri Sri Gaura Nitai and, as described in the third verse, they dress them with love and affection, decorating them tastefully with flowers and ornaments. They do this in the mood of assisting you in your service to the Deity. By your mercy I am engaged as an assistant in ISKCON Wales, trying to give my life in an attempt to arrange for a beautiful temple in which to worship Krsna very opulently, attracting thousands of wandering jivas to take shelter there. I pray that you will keep me always engaged in the humble service of Ty Krsna Cymru, in whatever capacity is most pleasing to Srila Prabhupada and Gaura Nitai; desiring to be perpetually humbled by menial service, and always a part of the bhakti community of ISKCON Wales, please let me offer my humble obeisances to your lotus feet.
4.
As your disciples offer delicious preparations to you, you certainly offer them to your spiritual master, and, in turn, they are passed all the way up to Radha and Krsna, who mercifully send them back down to us to be relished as their prasadam. You are then, as Srila Visvanatha states, very satisfied to see that we are happily taking these remnants sumptuously, and you have confirmed this to me by encouragingly instructing me in taking prasada to my full satisfaction – especially on feast days! In this way you have shown your deep realization on this tattva and increased my faith in the potency of Krsna’s remnants. I pray that I may continue offer and taste such purifying prasada for the rest of my life, hence offering my obeisances to your lotus feet.
5.
It is obvious to see that you are always absorbed in hearing, chanting and remembering Krsna’s pastimes and you are expert in explaining even his most intimate mellows of conjugal love appropriately to any audience you address. These nectarean talks are sublimely relishable and surely very pleasing to Krsna. It seems you understand and know Krsna intimately, relishing a deep and private relationship with him unfathomable to any outsider. Also, by demonstrating your love for reading Prabhupada’s books, you have given me the greatest inspiration to dedicate my life to their study, aspiring to taste and relish them the way you do. Your superlative classes, discussions and writings always seem to offer me step-by-step instructions, guiding me in my spiritual life and, for me, the hearing of them seems to be the perfection of my existence. I aspire to be situated always in obeisances to your lotus feet, that I may always hear, without stoppage, your recitation of topics about Krsna.
6.
As there is no doubt that you have arranged for so many of Krsna’s lost children to meet him and reengage in their eternal service to him, you certainly fit the description of the sixth verse, as an assistant of the gopis who make so many tasteful arrangements for Radha and Krsna’s loving affairs in the groves of Vraja. Your mantra of ‘we make it easy’, by which you expertly preach Krsna Consciousness allows streams of non-devotees to accept the activities of bhakti yoga and, when they, ultimately, re-enter Krsna’s pastimes in Vrndavana, the Lord and his associates must be so grateful to you, for without your mercy we would still likely be wandering within maya’s kingdom. It is my desire to become absorbed in assisting you, and those other expert assistants of the gopis who so nicely care of me in my day to day life, in that confidential service of always welcoming new candidates to take part in the blessed life of Krsna consciousness; a desire which can only be fulfilled if I can remain perpetually situated in obeisances to your lotus feet.
7.
As already explained, you are a most confidential servitor of Krsna, and therefore, the scriptures conclude that you should be honoured as much as the Lord. In Sri Caitanya Caritamrta (Adi 1.44-45), it is said ‘Although I know that my spiritual master is a servitor of Sri Caitanya, I know him also as I plenary manifestation of the Lord. According to the deliberate opinion of all revealed scriptures, the spiritual master is nondifferent from Krsna. Lord Krsna in the form of the spiritual master delivers his devotees.’ Though it is overwhelming to consider the impact of this statement, I do not doubt its accuracy when evaluating the impact you have had on my life, in such a short space of time. I therefore beg to be able to honour and worship you properly in all aspects of my life, always endeavouring to properly offer my respectful obeisances to your lotus feet.
8.
The last verse of Srila Visvanatha’s prayers is a reminder that the only way to please the Supreme Lord, Krsna, is through the spiritual master, and that without pleasing the spiritual master it is impossible to achieve Krsna’s favour. I am very inattentive and whimsical and, therefore, worried that I will not be able to serve you sufficiently in this lifetime. And so, on the day of your appearance, I am sincerely praying for your mercy, by which I may be able to always remember and praise you, devoting myself to your service that I may somehow or other please you. Please help me to make this the mood of my life, an ongoing attempt to become situated in obeisances at your lotus feet.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhakta Sam
Bhakta Sam Vennell
Hare Krishna Devamrita Maharaja.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
The occasion of your upcoming appearance has inspired me to reflect on my great fortune to have met you and your disciples at a time in my life when I was searching for something beyond the deadening day-to-day struggle mundane society offers.
With such dogged faith in the strength of my speculative intellect and meagre senses, I floated from one spiritual group to another, confidently stringing together my ‘realisations’ to concoct an unfortunate hodgepodge.
What a great fortune to have come to Bhakti Lounge.
In the purports to the first canto of Srimad Bhagavatam (SB 1.5.36), Srila Prabhupada writes:
“No one will disagree to partake in a function where good singing, dancing and refreshment are administered. Everyone will attend such a function, and everyone is sure to feel individually the transcendental presence of the Lord. This alone will help the attendants associate with the Lord and thereby purify themselves in spiritual realization. The only condition for successfully executing such spiritual activities is that they must be conducted under the guidance of a pure devotee who is completely free from all mundane desires, fruitive activities and dry speculations about the nature of the Lord.”
By your mercy these words are a vibrant reality which we are blessed to live every day at Bhakti Lounge. As this purport highlights, this bold operation is nothing but an extension of your mercy, and it could never have met any success without your loving guidance. Although you are not always physically present, the atmosphere here is permeated with your instructions and the devotion you continually inspire in your disciples.
What’s more, you provide us with a real education, grounded in the teachings of the great master that is His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Feeling that the materialistic schooling I received was so lacking, I feel immensely grateful to you for encouraging me to read and relish his transcendental books, urging me to never let a day slip by without setting aside quality time for my real education. You also so wonderfully serve his mission by contributing attractive, ingenious literatures which demonstrate your consummate expertise in conveying Prabhupada’s teachings to jaded moderns like myself.
An expert swordsman, you cut through the bondage of ignorance with your masterfully chosen words. At our last darshana, you urged me to actively challenge my social conditioning and to boldly persist in cleaning the mirror of my dusty heart (ceto darpana marjanam). Your class on the very first verse of the Bhagavatam in Wellington last year also remains prominent in my memory; even a restless speculator like myself was captivated for several hours, hanging on to your every word as you expounded the deepest philosophical truths with such astonishing clarity, peppering them with your uniquely charming transcendental humour.
‘śāstra-guru-ātma’-rūpe āpanāre jānāna
‘kṛṣṇa mora prabhu, trātā’ — jīvera haya jñāna
“The forgetful conditioned soul is educated by Kṛṣṇa through the Vedic literatures, the realized spiritual master and the Supersoul. Through these, he can understand the Supreme Personality of Godhead as He is, and he can understand that Lord Kṛṣṇa is his eternal master and deliverer from the clutches of māyā. In this way one can acquire real knowledge of his conditioned life and can come to understand how to attain liberation.” (CC Madhya 20.123)
In this world there are unfathomable quantities of jivas and yet just a few have the opportunity to meet a bona-fide spiritual master. Cast adrift in the ocean of material existence, materially afflicted souls are battered by endless waves of material cravings, convinced that the mirage will bestow upon them real satisfaction.
Being by no means free from illusion myself, I continue to create so many perplexities by attempting to lord it over the material world. Struggling to accept my psychophysical limitations, frustrated that that this material world will not facilitate the fulfilment of my petty desires, I try again and again with my foolish plans, absorbed in the bubble of my own narrow affairs.
Yet you, full in genuine compassion, so kindly extend your mercy, expertly serving Srila Prabhupada in his bold mission to throw all of the conditioned souls of this world a spiritual lifeline. As a grand master of bhakti yoga – the art of connection with the divine in devotional service – you are able to connect even materially-absorbed souls like myself with a mission far beyond our conception, providing us with the spiritual tools to purify our hearts and elevate ourselves beyond miserly selfishness.
I pray to someday be of some use to you in bringing souls to Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhakta Sam Vennell
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
The occasion of your upcoming appearance has inspired me to reflect on my great fortune to have met you and your disciples at a time in my life when I was searching for something beyond the deadening day-to-day struggle mundane society offers.
With such dogged faith in the strength of my speculative intellect and meagre senses, I floated from one spiritual group to another, confidently stringing together my ‘realisations’ to concoct an unfortunate hodgepodge.
What a great fortune to have come to Bhakti Lounge.
In the purports to the first canto of Srimad Bhagavatam (SB 1.5.36), Srila Prabhupada writes:
“No one will disagree to partake in a function where good singing, dancing and refreshment are administered. Everyone will attend such a function, and everyone is sure to feel individually the transcendental presence of the Lord. This alone will help the attendants associate with the Lord and thereby purify themselves in spiritual realization. The only condition for successfully executing such spiritual activities is that they must be conducted under the guidance of a pure devotee who is completely free from all mundane desires, fruitive activities and dry speculations about the nature of the Lord.”
By your mercy these words are a vibrant reality which we are blessed to live every day at Bhakti Lounge. As this purport highlights, this bold operation is nothing but an extension of your mercy, and it could never have met any success without your loving guidance. Although you are not always physically present, the atmosphere here is permeated with your instructions and the devotion you continually inspire in your disciples.
What’s more, you provide us with a real education, grounded in the teachings of the great master that is His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Feeling that the materialistic schooling I received was so lacking, I feel immensely grateful to you for encouraging me to read and relish his transcendental books, urging me to never let a day slip by without setting aside quality time for my real education. You also so wonderfully serve his mission by contributing attractive, ingenious literatures which demonstrate your consummate expertise in conveying Prabhupada’s teachings to jaded moderns like myself.
An expert swordsman, you cut through the bondage of ignorance with your masterfully chosen words. At our last darshana, you urged me to actively challenge my social conditioning and to boldly persist in cleaning the mirror of my dusty heart (ceto darpana marjanam). Your class on the very first verse of the Bhagavatam in Wellington last year also remains prominent in my memory; even a restless speculator like myself was captivated for several hours, hanging on to your every word as you expounded the deepest philosophical truths with such astonishing clarity, peppering them with your uniquely charming transcendental humour.
‘śāstra-guru-ātma’-rūpe āpanāre jānāna
‘kṛṣṇa mora prabhu, trātā’ — jīvera haya jñāna
“The forgetful conditioned soul is educated by Kṛṣṇa through the Vedic literatures, the realized spiritual master and the Supersoul. Through these, he can understand the Supreme Personality of Godhead as He is, and he can understand that Lord Kṛṣṇa is his eternal master and deliverer from the clutches of māyā. In this way one can acquire real knowledge of his conditioned life and can come to understand how to attain liberation.” (CC Madhya 20.123)
In this world there are unfathomable quantities of jivas and yet just a few have the opportunity to meet a bona-fide spiritual master. Cast adrift in the ocean of material existence, materially afflicted souls are battered by endless waves of material cravings, convinced that the mirage will bestow upon them real satisfaction.
Being by no means free from illusion myself, I continue to create so many perplexities by attempting to lord it over the material world. Struggling to accept my psychophysical limitations, frustrated that that this material world will not facilitate the fulfilment of my petty desires, I try again and again with my foolish plans, absorbed in the bubble of my own narrow affairs.
Yet you, full in genuine compassion, so kindly extend your mercy, expertly serving Srila Prabhupada in his bold mission to throw all of the conditioned souls of this world a spiritual lifeline. As a grand master of bhakti yoga – the art of connection with the divine in devotional service – you are able to connect even materially-absorbed souls like myself with a mission far beyond our conception, providing us with the spiritual tools to purify our hearts and elevate ourselves beyond miserly selfishness.
I pray to someday be of some use to you in bringing souls to Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhakta Sam Vennell
Bhakta Tom Vine
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to the dust of your lotus feet. All glories to the auspicious day of your Vyasa puja.
The first time I read these verses they resounded with me so much that I was struck by an overwhelming surge of emotion and I was brought to tears, realising how fortunate you have made me;
-"It is my good fortune that I have been able to see you, for you cannot easily be seen by persons who have not subdued the mind or controlled the senses. I am all the more fortunate to have touched with my head the blessed dust of your feet. I have fortunately been instructed by you, and thus great favour has been bestowed upon me. I thank God that I have listened with open ears to your pure words." (SB 3.22.6-7)
On our first meeting just over a year ago I was so covered over that I simply couldn't have imagined the purity and Krishna conscious force which your seemingly simple guidance was going to have on my life. As I began to follow your words, I quickly started to notice small signs indicating that the instructions I had received were no normal, mundane instructions. I noticed that the more I made my actions line up with your guidance the more Krishna would reciprocate. It soon became clear that those instructions I had been given were, without a doubt, transcendental words directly from the Spiritual World. I could see that with every effort I made to fulfil those instructions Krishna would mould the situation so that everything became more and more favourable, not only in relation to the instruction but in all other areas.
In the purport for this verse 3.22.7 Prabhupada writes, 'a bona fide spiritual master knows the nature of a particular man and what sort of duties he can perform in Krishna consciousness, and he instructs him in this way' reading this as meditated on your guidance I became completely convinced of the eternal, transcendental guru disciple relationship. How else could someone give such perfectly tailored, personal instructions on a first meeting? I realised that your pure words were like the first few rain drops one feels in a summer shower, but those raindrops were ecstatic glimpses of the spiritual sky, the downpour which was about to follow was Krishna's causeless mercy and I was stunned amidst all of this, transfixed in disbelief at the rainbow triggered by this sublime combination, which was the changes you have made in my life.
Prabhupada writes further, 'a spiritual master, knowing the particular ability of a particular man, trains him in such a way that by his tendency to act he becomes perfect ... an artist can attain perfection simply by performing artistic work under the direction of the spiritual master.' This point in the purport resonates with me on a very personal level because, as a musician, you instructed me to learn the Mridanga thus rendering my tendency towards music into devotional service. I'm unable to express how much shelter learning the Mridanga provided for me and I'm unable to thank you for the amount of shelter I received from your pure words.
Now, at a difficult moment in my life, you have given me shelter at the sublime tirtha known as Bhakti Lounge. Seeing so many future devotees coming through for programmes and realising that every morsel of prasadam, every nectarian moment of Kirtan and every moment of sadhu sanga they receive is an extension of your mercy, my words are insufficient to express your glory.
Needless to say I feel unable to repay you for the favour you have bestowed upon me. I pray that, in spite of my inadequacy, I can use my body, mind, words and intelligence to assist you in your preaching endeavours by extending your mercy to as many conditioned souls as possible.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhakta Tom
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to the dust of your lotus feet. All glories to the auspicious day of your Vyasa puja.
The first time I read these verses they resounded with me so much that I was struck by an overwhelming surge of emotion and I was brought to tears, realising how fortunate you have made me;
-"It is my good fortune that I have been able to see you, for you cannot easily be seen by persons who have not subdued the mind or controlled the senses. I am all the more fortunate to have touched with my head the blessed dust of your feet. I have fortunately been instructed by you, and thus great favour has been bestowed upon me. I thank God that I have listened with open ears to your pure words." (SB 3.22.6-7)
On our first meeting just over a year ago I was so covered over that I simply couldn't have imagined the purity and Krishna conscious force which your seemingly simple guidance was going to have on my life. As I began to follow your words, I quickly started to notice small signs indicating that the instructions I had received were no normal, mundane instructions. I noticed that the more I made my actions line up with your guidance the more Krishna would reciprocate. It soon became clear that those instructions I had been given were, without a doubt, transcendental words directly from the Spiritual World. I could see that with every effort I made to fulfil those instructions Krishna would mould the situation so that everything became more and more favourable, not only in relation to the instruction but in all other areas.
In the purport for this verse 3.22.7 Prabhupada writes, 'a bona fide spiritual master knows the nature of a particular man and what sort of duties he can perform in Krishna consciousness, and he instructs him in this way' reading this as meditated on your guidance I became completely convinced of the eternal, transcendental guru disciple relationship. How else could someone give such perfectly tailored, personal instructions on a first meeting? I realised that your pure words were like the first few rain drops one feels in a summer shower, but those raindrops were ecstatic glimpses of the spiritual sky, the downpour which was about to follow was Krishna's causeless mercy and I was stunned amidst all of this, transfixed in disbelief at the rainbow triggered by this sublime combination, which was the changes you have made in my life.
Prabhupada writes further, 'a spiritual master, knowing the particular ability of a particular man, trains him in such a way that by his tendency to act he becomes perfect ... an artist can attain perfection simply by performing artistic work under the direction of the spiritual master.' This point in the purport resonates with me on a very personal level because, as a musician, you instructed me to learn the Mridanga thus rendering my tendency towards music into devotional service. I'm unable to express how much shelter learning the Mridanga provided for me and I'm unable to thank you for the amount of shelter I received from your pure words.
Now, at a difficult moment in my life, you have given me shelter at the sublime tirtha known as Bhakti Lounge. Seeing so many future devotees coming through for programmes and realising that every morsel of prasadam, every nectarian moment of Kirtan and every moment of sadhu sanga they receive is an extension of your mercy, my words are insufficient to express your glory.
Needless to say I feel unable to repay you for the favour you have bestowed upon me. I pray that, in spite of my inadequacy, I can use my body, mind, words and intelligence to assist you in your preaching endeavours by extending your mercy to as many conditioned souls as possible.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhakta Tom
Bhakta Viktor
Dear Devamrita Swami Mharaj,
please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada !
i want to thank you that you were so merciful to us and give to my sister your blessings ! I still cannot believe that my sister is now older than me and my brother, who we are supposed to be the older. I took your words really seriously and i am on the way to don't fall behind.I took shelter of Kadamba Kanana Maharaja.
It was real pleasure and blessing to meet you face to face and to can talk with you.
Also thank you so much for the Kirtan you had on the Festival. It will stand in my heart for a long long time and also for the nectar from your lectures.
I hope that you will have a wonderful Vyasa Puja and to grab even more easily the hearts from more and more people to engage then in Krishna's service
your servant
Bhakta Viktor
please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada !
i want to thank you that you were so merciful to us and give to my sister your blessings ! I still cannot believe that my sister is now older than me and my brother, who we are supposed to be the older. I took your words really seriously and i am on the way to don't fall behind.I took shelter of Kadamba Kanana Maharaja.
It was real pleasure and blessing to meet you face to face and to can talk with you.
Also thank you so much for the Kirtan you had on the Festival. It will stand in my heart for a long long time and also for the nectar from your lectures.
I hope that you will have a wonderful Vyasa Puja and to grab even more easily the hearts from more and more people to engage then in Krishna's service
your servant
Bhakta Viktor
Bhakti Sāra Dāsa
nama oṁ viṣṇu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre pūrva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupāda. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
Life of a conditioned soul in material world, especially in Kali Yuga, is like that of a person who is drowning in a dark muddy pond. A rescuer has to not only save the person from drowning but also clean him. Although material world is sometimes manifest and sometimes unmanifest, it is eternal. And therefore, Kṛṣṇa’s Rescue Mission is also eternal. He comes to this material world at different times and in different forms as the Supreme saviour. He also sends His empowered representatives to save the fallen souls.
Kṛṣṇa can be understood as He is through the Vedas (vedaiś ca sarvair aham eva vedyo, BG 15.15). Time and again, when the purport of the Vedas appears to be lost, Kṛṣṇa or His representatives reestablish those principles.
Śrīla Sccidānanda Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura initiated the teachings of Lord Caitanya in the western world in 1896, the year of Śrīla Prabhupāda’s birth. He did this by sending a booklet ‘Sri Caitanya Mahāprabhu: His Life & Precepts' to Canada’s McGill University. Here’s a statement from his booklet: “The Vedas, together with their explanatory notes, the Purāṇas, are therefore the only evidence in matters of spirit, and are eternal in nature. Thus, Vedic truths should be accepted as the only truth in higher matters.”
Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, the founder-acarya of 64 Gauḍiya Maṭhas, continued the mission by strongly preaching Lord Caitanya’s message all over India and sending his leading sannyasī preachers to England. Had that position become secured—particularly by the construction of a London temple—Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura would have gone to the West himself. Here’s a statement from his commentary on Brahma Samhita: “The Vedas, under the influence of the spiritual potency in certain passages speak of the pastimes of the Supreme Lord. The liberated souls chant the name, qualities and pastimes of the Supreme Lord, under the guidance of the same spiritual potency.” Spiritual master can place any disciple in the spiritual potency very easily.
Śrīla Bhaktivedānta Svāmī Prabhupāda, the founder-acarya of ISKCON, was clearly the main medium, who brought the eternal mission of the Vedas to west very emphatically. Here’s a statement from the introduction of Prabhupāda’s Īśopaniṣad: “Veda means knowledge. Any knowledge you accept is veda, for the teachings of the Vedas are the original knowledge.”
After Śrīla Prabhupāda’s departure from the ordinary vision, his sincere disciples continue to spread the paramparā’s mission in the wild west.
Gurudeva, recently at a workshop at the University of Auckland we read the following statement from your book Searching for Vedic India: “Western academics will rely on a firm stance of what is known as critical scholarship. By their own admission they are steeped in an approach to knowledge known as rational-empiricism. Naturally, therefore, they are inclined to dismiss the Vedic literature’s own delineation of its origin, purpose, and scope.”
It requires compassion, expertise and pure devotion to transparently transmit the message of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness and enthuse people to read śāstra. Recently two young men asked me for a copy of Bhagavad-gītā. They were inspired to buy Bhagavad-gītā because of reading your book Hiding in Unnatural Happiness. Such instances increase my faith on the timeless nature of bhagavat dharma. Anyone and everyone can appreciate knowledge of Kṛṣṇa consciousness if presented according to time, place and circumstance.
The saintly members of the chain of discipline succession are always merciful as mentioned in Uddhava gītā:
“O King, a saintly person is just like water because he is free from all contamination, gentle by nature, and by speaking creates a beautiful vibration like that of flowing water. Just by seeing, touching or hearing such a saintly person, the living entity is purified, just as one is cleansed by contact with pure water. Thus a saintly person, just like a holy place, purifies all those who contact him because he always chants the glories of the Lord.” (SB 11.7.44)
Gurudeva as you are aware of my anarthas, kindly continue to purify me by the words emanating from your lotus mouth.
Aspiring to taste a drop of pure devotion,
Your servant,
Bhakti Sāra Dāsa
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre pūrva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupāda. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
Life of a conditioned soul in material world, especially in Kali Yuga, is like that of a person who is drowning in a dark muddy pond. A rescuer has to not only save the person from drowning but also clean him. Although material world is sometimes manifest and sometimes unmanifest, it is eternal. And therefore, Kṛṣṇa’s Rescue Mission is also eternal. He comes to this material world at different times and in different forms as the Supreme saviour. He also sends His empowered representatives to save the fallen souls.
Kṛṣṇa can be understood as He is through the Vedas (vedaiś ca sarvair aham eva vedyo, BG 15.15). Time and again, when the purport of the Vedas appears to be lost, Kṛṣṇa or His representatives reestablish those principles.
Śrīla Sccidānanda Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura initiated the teachings of Lord Caitanya in the western world in 1896, the year of Śrīla Prabhupāda’s birth. He did this by sending a booklet ‘Sri Caitanya Mahāprabhu: His Life & Precepts' to Canada’s McGill University. Here’s a statement from his booklet: “The Vedas, together with their explanatory notes, the Purāṇas, are therefore the only evidence in matters of spirit, and are eternal in nature. Thus, Vedic truths should be accepted as the only truth in higher matters.”
Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura, the founder-acarya of 64 Gauḍiya Maṭhas, continued the mission by strongly preaching Lord Caitanya’s message all over India and sending his leading sannyasī preachers to England. Had that position become secured—particularly by the construction of a London temple—Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura would have gone to the West himself. Here’s a statement from his commentary on Brahma Samhita: “The Vedas, under the influence of the spiritual potency in certain passages speak of the pastimes of the Supreme Lord. The liberated souls chant the name, qualities and pastimes of the Supreme Lord, under the guidance of the same spiritual potency.” Spiritual master can place any disciple in the spiritual potency very easily.
Śrīla Bhaktivedānta Svāmī Prabhupāda, the founder-acarya of ISKCON, was clearly the main medium, who brought the eternal mission of the Vedas to west very emphatically. Here’s a statement from the introduction of Prabhupāda’s Īśopaniṣad: “Veda means knowledge. Any knowledge you accept is veda, for the teachings of the Vedas are the original knowledge.”
After Śrīla Prabhupāda’s departure from the ordinary vision, his sincere disciples continue to spread the paramparā’s mission in the wild west.
Gurudeva, recently at a workshop at the University of Auckland we read the following statement from your book Searching for Vedic India: “Western academics will rely on a firm stance of what is known as critical scholarship. By their own admission they are steeped in an approach to knowledge known as rational-empiricism. Naturally, therefore, they are inclined to dismiss the Vedic literature’s own delineation of its origin, purpose, and scope.”
It requires compassion, expertise and pure devotion to transparently transmit the message of the Kṛṣṇa consciousness and enthuse people to read śāstra. Recently two young men asked me for a copy of Bhagavad-gītā. They were inspired to buy Bhagavad-gītā because of reading your book Hiding in Unnatural Happiness. Such instances increase my faith on the timeless nature of bhagavat dharma. Anyone and everyone can appreciate knowledge of Kṛṣṇa consciousness if presented according to time, place and circumstance.
The saintly members of the chain of discipline succession are always merciful as mentioned in Uddhava gītā:
“O King, a saintly person is just like water because he is free from all contamination, gentle by nature, and by speaking creates a beautiful vibration like that of flowing water. Just by seeing, touching or hearing such a saintly person, the living entity is purified, just as one is cleansed by contact with pure water. Thus a saintly person, just like a holy place, purifies all those who contact him because he always chants the glories of the Lord.” (SB 11.7.44)
Gurudeva as you are aware of my anarthas, kindly continue to purify me by the words emanating from your lotus mouth.
Aspiring to taste a drop of pure devotion,
Your servant,
Bhakti Sāra Dāsa
Bhakti-lata devi dasi
Dear Guru maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada mentions in the 2nd canto Srimad Bhagavatam, "The first duty of a person in the renounced order of life is to contribute some literary work for the benefit of the human being in order to give him realized direction toward self-realization."
This year it has been a great delight witnessing people being attracted to your book, Hiding in Unnatural happiness. While on book distribution, sometimes I would stop someone and the person would say no and keep walking but then as I would flash the front cover of your book, then they would come back, stop and say: "That looks good! That looks interesting!" After reading the back of it, most of them would just want to buy it. Sometimes people would even say "I was looking for something like this!"
You win people's heart with this book as you share your own realizations and research. It is very effective in presenting Krishna consciousness in a way that people readily find it relevant to their own lives.
There is one 19 year old student, Patricia, who loves your book and has read it 3 times. Patricia related to me a discussion she had with her uni friend about kirtan and the bhakti yoga club at Melbourne Uni. The friend said to Patricia that he was offered a book several times at the yoga sessions: "BUT you know me, right? I am studying science, how can I read such unscientific books?" She got horrified at hearing her friend's ignorant statement and she assertively responded "it is very scientific, you have to read it, how can you say that when you have not read the book? You have to buy it this week, otherwise next week I will give you my own copy!"
"The bona fide spiritual master in that bona fide chain of disciplic succession never claims to be the Lord Himself, although such a spiritual master is greater than the Lord in the sense that he can deliver the Lord by his personally realized experience. The Lord is not to be found simply by education or by a good fertile brain, but surely He can be found by the sincere student through the transparent medium of the bona fide spiritual master." (SB 2.9.36)
I have seen that by hearing you and reading your books, people develop deep appreciation for genuine spiritual wisdom and want to read the other book you mention, Bhagavad-Gita as it is. This shows your expertise and full hearted dedication in your service to Srila Prabhupada. You take people who have zero knowledge and desire for spiritual life and induce them to develop their Krishna consciousness.
In my tiny attempts at serving you, I pray that I can be of some assistance in your wonderful service to Srila Prabhupada.
Your servant,
Bhakti-lata devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada mentions in the 2nd canto Srimad Bhagavatam, "The first duty of a person in the renounced order of life is to contribute some literary work for the benefit of the human being in order to give him realized direction toward self-realization."
This year it has been a great delight witnessing people being attracted to your book, Hiding in Unnatural happiness. While on book distribution, sometimes I would stop someone and the person would say no and keep walking but then as I would flash the front cover of your book, then they would come back, stop and say: "That looks good! That looks interesting!" After reading the back of it, most of them would just want to buy it. Sometimes people would even say "I was looking for something like this!"
You win people's heart with this book as you share your own realizations and research. It is very effective in presenting Krishna consciousness in a way that people readily find it relevant to their own lives.
There is one 19 year old student, Patricia, who loves your book and has read it 3 times. Patricia related to me a discussion she had with her uni friend about kirtan and the bhakti yoga club at Melbourne Uni. The friend said to Patricia that he was offered a book several times at the yoga sessions: "BUT you know me, right? I am studying science, how can I read such unscientific books?" She got horrified at hearing her friend's ignorant statement and she assertively responded "it is very scientific, you have to read it, how can you say that when you have not read the book? You have to buy it this week, otherwise next week I will give you my own copy!"
"The bona fide spiritual master in that bona fide chain of disciplic succession never claims to be the Lord Himself, although such a spiritual master is greater than the Lord in the sense that he can deliver the Lord by his personally realized experience. The Lord is not to be found simply by education or by a good fertile brain, but surely He can be found by the sincere student through the transparent medium of the bona fide spiritual master." (SB 2.9.36)
I have seen that by hearing you and reading your books, people develop deep appreciation for genuine spiritual wisdom and want to read the other book you mention, Bhagavad-Gita as it is. This shows your expertise and full hearted dedication in your service to Srila Prabhupada. You take people who have zero knowledge and desire for spiritual life and induce them to develop their Krishna consciousness.
In my tiny attempts at serving you, I pray that I can be of some assistance in your wonderful service to Srila Prabhupada.
Your servant,
Bhakti-lata devi dasi
Bhaktine Liliya
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
On this most auspicious day of your appearance, I want to thank you for
all that you do to spread Krishna consciousness to the Western countries.
You are an unlimited inspiration to me.
For a new devotee, I find distributing books can be hard and
tasteless at the beginning, but being inspired by stories of your
experience of first years of distribution makes me encouraged to keep trying.
You often remind us in the lectures how important Srila Prabhupada’s books are for us, our movement based on books by Srila Prabhupada, what
an incredible job dear Srila Prabhupada has done by translating them,
bring them to the west and make them understandable for such
materialistic people.
Such hard work has been done before these books have
been published, what an amazing hard work been done by his earlier
disciples, I don’t think that I have enough qualification in Krishna consciousness to fully
understand how hard it was for Srila Prabhupada. But hearing about his efforts encourage’s me to go on
distribution and try to do my best on the street.
You are so intelligent.
From childhood, I remember hearing the words that an intelligent
person can easily make conversation with fools and with a genius.
However most of the time I saw puffed up intelligent materialists.
Your lectures are so easily accessible even from the first steps in Bhakti.
Sila Prabhupada translated and explained this great Vedic knowledge for
Westerners and you expertly break them down to make it even more clear and more simple so any person can understand.
You are so personal.
When I first time met you, I wasn’t sure that I have enough
qualification and intelligence to talk with you. I was really thankful
for the lecture you gave at the Loft but I couldn’t imagine speaking
about my mundane problems that I had with such elevated person as you, but you were so friendly and understanding. Helping me to go through the barriers
on my journey in Krishna Consciousness. When you look at your disciples you illumine them with a shine of love of Krishna coming from your heart. You know everyone so deeply and seem to understand everyone needs, the advice you give brings happiness in their lives and help them to become closer to Krishna.
You so care so much for people.
By opening such amazing places such The Loft and Bhakti Lounge you
make Krishna Consciousness knowledge so easily acceptable, so comfortable for people.
It’s really obvious that you not only make these centre for the people, so they can be comfortable and willing to come more and make these centres ‘their places’.
You are always happy to meet them when they come to talk to you, you are happy
to answer their questions with compassion and care.
You encourage us to do more service.
Your travel around the world giving the knowledge of Krishna and the
books that you write encourage us to engage more deeply in service.
One of the first lectures I attended at the temple was given by you. You
explained how a young devotee should be engaged in more service and
takes more responsibilities as times go by, that they should become the servant of the servant. Remembering your words gives me inspiration.
Thank you so much for coming to New Zealand. Thank you for the encouragement and support that you give and helping people come close
to Krishna.
My only wish is to follow the path of Bhakti yoga by following you advice
and becoming a servant of your servants.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhaktine Liliya
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
On this most auspicious day of your appearance, I want to thank you for
all that you do to spread Krishna consciousness to the Western countries.
You are an unlimited inspiration to me.
For a new devotee, I find distributing books can be hard and
tasteless at the beginning, but being inspired by stories of your
experience of first years of distribution makes me encouraged to keep trying.
You often remind us in the lectures how important Srila Prabhupada’s books are for us, our movement based on books by Srila Prabhupada, what
an incredible job dear Srila Prabhupada has done by translating them,
bring them to the west and make them understandable for such
materialistic people.
Such hard work has been done before these books have
been published, what an amazing hard work been done by his earlier
disciples, I don’t think that I have enough qualification in Krishna consciousness to fully
understand how hard it was for Srila Prabhupada. But hearing about his efforts encourage’s me to go on
distribution and try to do my best on the street.
You are so intelligent.
From childhood, I remember hearing the words that an intelligent
person can easily make conversation with fools and with a genius.
However most of the time I saw puffed up intelligent materialists.
Your lectures are so easily accessible even from the first steps in Bhakti.
Sila Prabhupada translated and explained this great Vedic knowledge for
Westerners and you expertly break them down to make it even more clear and more simple so any person can understand.
You are so personal.
When I first time met you, I wasn’t sure that I have enough
qualification and intelligence to talk with you. I was really thankful
for the lecture you gave at the Loft but I couldn’t imagine speaking
about my mundane problems that I had with such elevated person as you, but you were so friendly and understanding. Helping me to go through the barriers
on my journey in Krishna Consciousness. When you look at your disciples you illumine them with a shine of love of Krishna coming from your heart. You know everyone so deeply and seem to understand everyone needs, the advice you give brings happiness in their lives and help them to become closer to Krishna.
You so care so much for people.
By opening such amazing places such The Loft and Bhakti Lounge you
make Krishna Consciousness knowledge so easily acceptable, so comfortable for people.
It’s really obvious that you not only make these centre for the people, so they can be comfortable and willing to come more and make these centres ‘their places’.
You are always happy to meet them when they come to talk to you, you are happy
to answer their questions with compassion and care.
You encourage us to do more service.
Your travel around the world giving the knowledge of Krishna and the
books that you write encourage us to engage more deeply in service.
One of the first lectures I attended at the temple was given by you. You
explained how a young devotee should be engaged in more service and
takes more responsibilities as times go by, that they should become the servant of the servant. Remembering your words gives me inspiration.
Thank you so much for coming to New Zealand. Thank you for the encouragement and support that you give and helping people come close
to Krishna.
My only wish is to follow the path of Bhakti yoga by following you advice
and becoming a servant of your servants.
Your aspiring servant,
Bhaktine Liliya
Bhava Sandhi dd
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this auspicious day.
In a lecture you gave in Otaki one festival, you were explaining Lord Caitanya and Lord Nityananda want to give the taste of complete spiritual freedom, the complete spiritual reality of taste of love for Krishna, even to people who have no knowledge of Krishna.
This is one of the many services I see you striving for on behalf of the parampara..
You challenge our concepts of so called freedom and reality and show us how we have such low expectations of taste our lives.
You then enthusiastically show us and inspire us in full immersion in the actual spiritual reality.
You determinedly push for distribution of this taste to be shared in every town and village, spreading the net so wide to catch as many conditioned souls as possible.
Then you create situations for us to use our intelligence, our bodies, our hearts, our desires and our efforts in this experiencing and distributing this taste of Krishna.
Thank you for caring for us, Thank you for giving me, one so low and unqualified, without any knowledge of Krishna, a chance to taste a drop of that complete spiritual reality and freedom. I pray I can repay you by assisting you in your service to the parampara. The following is one humble attempt.
I was on my way to the tofu shop in Henderson and had taken a few books in my hands to see if I could stop anyone on the way. I approached the car park and saw a woman in her early 50's with white hair that was half shaved, she was smoking a rolled up cigarette and looked quite intense. I scanned the car park to see if there was anyone else and saw a young man looking only slightly less intense coming out of a porn shop, I thought he was the better option so approached him with a Bhagavad Gita. "Ahh cool" he said instantly,grabbing the book from my hands "I'm reading this book Science of self realization at the moment" he shouted, "Is it by the same dude, you know the one true Guru geezer?" I took the book from his hands and showed him a picture of Srila Prabhupada, "Yeah yeah that's him, hes awesome" he confirmed. He then proceeded to tell me he really wanted the book but had no money, he had just been trying to sell his phone to get some cash. At this point the lady with the half shaved head came over (I think it could have been his mother) and gave me 40 cents so the man could take the book, I said I needed a bit more than that and she headed off to a car close by full of young people smoking and she heavied them all out till they chipped in their gold coins and there was enough to pay for it. Meanwhile I was asking the man how he had got the SSR, he told me some girls down his street had got it, but had given it to him. He was so happy to get Bhagavad Gita. Once again I marveled at Lord Nityanandas mercy, how in less than 5 minutes so many people joined in his sankirtan pastimes, the lady who I had written off a too scary, all the people smoking in the car who paid for the book, the young man who had take so many devotional steps forward by glorifying Srila Prabhupada, taking his books and is reading them and myself who without Lord Nityanandas mercy would have been so tragically wasting this human form of life.
Praying on this most auspicious day, to someday be secure and fixed in the spiritual reality.
Your aspiring servant, Bhava Sandhi dd
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this auspicious day.
In a lecture you gave in Otaki one festival, you were explaining Lord Caitanya and Lord Nityananda want to give the taste of complete spiritual freedom, the complete spiritual reality of taste of love for Krishna, even to people who have no knowledge of Krishna.
This is one of the many services I see you striving for on behalf of the parampara..
You challenge our concepts of so called freedom and reality and show us how we have such low expectations of taste our lives.
You then enthusiastically show us and inspire us in full immersion in the actual spiritual reality.
You determinedly push for distribution of this taste to be shared in every town and village, spreading the net so wide to catch as many conditioned souls as possible.
Then you create situations for us to use our intelligence, our bodies, our hearts, our desires and our efforts in this experiencing and distributing this taste of Krishna.
Thank you for caring for us, Thank you for giving me, one so low and unqualified, without any knowledge of Krishna, a chance to taste a drop of that complete spiritual reality and freedom. I pray I can repay you by assisting you in your service to the parampara. The following is one humble attempt.
I was on my way to the tofu shop in Henderson and had taken a few books in my hands to see if I could stop anyone on the way. I approached the car park and saw a woman in her early 50's with white hair that was half shaved, she was smoking a rolled up cigarette and looked quite intense. I scanned the car park to see if there was anyone else and saw a young man looking only slightly less intense coming out of a porn shop, I thought he was the better option so approached him with a Bhagavad Gita. "Ahh cool" he said instantly,grabbing the book from my hands "I'm reading this book Science of self realization at the moment" he shouted, "Is it by the same dude, you know the one true Guru geezer?" I took the book from his hands and showed him a picture of Srila Prabhupada, "Yeah yeah that's him, hes awesome" he confirmed. He then proceeded to tell me he really wanted the book but had no money, he had just been trying to sell his phone to get some cash. At this point the lady with the half shaved head came over (I think it could have been his mother) and gave me 40 cents so the man could take the book, I said I needed a bit more than that and she headed off to a car close by full of young people smoking and she heavied them all out till they chipped in their gold coins and there was enough to pay for it. Meanwhile I was asking the man how he had got the SSR, he told me some girls down his street had got it, but had given it to him. He was so happy to get Bhagavad Gita. Once again I marveled at Lord Nityanandas mercy, how in less than 5 minutes so many people joined in his sankirtan pastimes, the lady who I had written off a too scary, all the people smoking in the car who paid for the book, the young man who had take so many devotional steps forward by glorifying Srila Prabhupada, taking his books and is reading them and myself who without Lord Nityanandas mercy would have been so tragically wasting this human form of life.
Praying on this most auspicious day, to someday be secure and fixed in the spiritual reality.
Your aspiring servant, Bhava Sandhi dd
Bhava-vibhusana das
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In his purport to CC Adi 1.46, Srila Prabhupada explains that “Without the attentive service of his parents, a child cannot grow to manhood; similarly, without the care of the spiritual master one cannot rise to the plane of transcendental service.” As a father is concerned about the growth of his child, you being concerned with our spiritual wellbeing repeatedly emphasize the attentive chanting of the holy name, taking shelter of Srila Prabhupada’s books and carrying out devotional service with proper attitude.
During my chanting I always remember your words “Let your outreach expand from your japa” or “all services expand from your japa”. On my own, it seems impossible to focus during japa. But the remembrance of your simple but deep words, gives me the strength, inspiration and determination to battle with my mind & endeavour to chant attentively. Your words carry such great potency. Krnsa tells Uddhava in Bhagavatam that one should accept the spiritual master as good as Him. Acaryaṁ māṁ vijānīyān (SB 11.17.27). As Krsna’s words have so much potency to deliver us, similarly your words as the Supreme Personality of Servitor Godhead carry the same potency to liberate us.
In Antya Lila, where Sanatana Goswami is glorifying Hari Das Thakur for being exemplary in both acara and pracara, Prabhupada explains that “…one must act according to the scriptural injunctions and at the same time preach. One who does so is a bona fide spiritual master.” Antya 4.103. Recently I was listening to a lecture where HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj gives us a glimpse into your glorious preaching, as follows:
“After Srila Prabhupada went back to spiritual world, Devamrita Maharaj organised the distribution of Srila Prabhupada’s books. Not only personally but inspired people with such unbelievable enthusiasm that at one time a tiny little country, Norway with just a few devotees, in one of the coldest parts of the world. Small country, small population, just a few devotees, artic winters. His temple one year was the largest book distributers in the whole world. (Hariboool!!! from audience). That came from inspiration. And that inspiration came from Devamrita Swami’s love for Srila Prabhupada. Also for many years he really risked his life both physically, mentally and emotionally and practically with no association, spiritually, to propagate Krsna Consciousness under the iron curtain, during communism in Eastern Europe. For many countries he was in charge of distributing books and cultivating people…How much pressure? KGB constantly hunting him down. He didn’t know when he was coming into a country whether he would ever come out alive. And he did it. And many, many people he brought to lotus feet of Krsna. And tremendous amount of Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam he distributed and actually helped to establish the foundation instrumentally, in what we see now Eastern Europe, Russia are one of the largest growing countries for Krsna Consciousness.”
Maharaj’s words give us such a mind blowing insight to your dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s books! There is nothing you haven’t risked for them. Taking inspiration from you even a tiny country like Norway with just a few devotees can top the world in book distribution. Krsna-sakti vina nahe tara pravartana, Antya 7.11. You’re directly empowered by Caitanya Mahaprabhu to preach so amazingly, that even the impossible can become possible!
In a letter to HH Tamal Krsna Maharaj, Srila Prabhupada states that, “To manage a sankirtana party nicely is more precious than all other activities. That is the verdict of Bhagavad Gita and the mission of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.” 13 Nov, 1975. Although you’ve already risked your life carrying out this topmost service under the iron curtain, for so many years, even today you’re still doing this most precious activity by leading the sankirtana in New Zealand and further inspiring yatras all over the world.
Gurudev, your love for Srila Prabhupada’s books is contagious. Anyone who comes in contact with you can’t help but also get inspired to take shelter of Prabhupada’s books. I am one of those fortunate souls. Thank you for your guidance, support and inspiration. In a 1976 letter Srila Prabhupada states “If you feel at all indebted to me then you should preach vigorously like me. That is the proper way to repay me. Of course, no one can repay the debt to the spiritual master, but the spiritual master is very much pleased by such an attitude by the disciple”. Hence although it is impossible to repay my debt to you, I pray that you please bless me with the enthusiasm and determination to come to the level of “vigorously” distributing books here in Sydney, in an attempt to please you.
Aspiring to be your humble servant,
Bhava-vibhusana das
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In his purport to CC Adi 1.46, Srila Prabhupada explains that “Without the attentive service of his parents, a child cannot grow to manhood; similarly, without the care of the spiritual master one cannot rise to the plane of transcendental service.” As a father is concerned about the growth of his child, you being concerned with our spiritual wellbeing repeatedly emphasize the attentive chanting of the holy name, taking shelter of Srila Prabhupada’s books and carrying out devotional service with proper attitude.
During my chanting I always remember your words “Let your outreach expand from your japa” or “all services expand from your japa”. On my own, it seems impossible to focus during japa. But the remembrance of your simple but deep words, gives me the strength, inspiration and determination to battle with my mind & endeavour to chant attentively. Your words carry such great potency. Krnsa tells Uddhava in Bhagavatam that one should accept the spiritual master as good as Him. Acaryaṁ māṁ vijānīyān (SB 11.17.27). As Krsna’s words have so much potency to deliver us, similarly your words as the Supreme Personality of Servitor Godhead carry the same potency to liberate us.
In Antya Lila, where Sanatana Goswami is glorifying Hari Das Thakur for being exemplary in both acara and pracara, Prabhupada explains that “…one must act according to the scriptural injunctions and at the same time preach. One who does so is a bona fide spiritual master.” Antya 4.103. Recently I was listening to a lecture where HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj gives us a glimpse into your glorious preaching, as follows:
“After Srila Prabhupada went back to spiritual world, Devamrita Maharaj organised the distribution of Srila Prabhupada’s books. Not only personally but inspired people with such unbelievable enthusiasm that at one time a tiny little country, Norway with just a few devotees, in one of the coldest parts of the world. Small country, small population, just a few devotees, artic winters. His temple one year was the largest book distributers in the whole world. (Hariboool!!! from audience). That came from inspiration. And that inspiration came from Devamrita Swami’s love for Srila Prabhupada. Also for many years he really risked his life both physically, mentally and emotionally and practically with no association, spiritually, to propagate Krsna Consciousness under the iron curtain, during communism in Eastern Europe. For many countries he was in charge of distributing books and cultivating people…How much pressure? KGB constantly hunting him down. He didn’t know when he was coming into a country whether he would ever come out alive. And he did it. And many, many people he brought to lotus feet of Krsna. And tremendous amount of Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam he distributed and actually helped to establish the foundation instrumentally, in what we see now Eastern Europe, Russia are one of the largest growing countries for Krsna Consciousness.”
Maharaj’s words give us such a mind blowing insight to your dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s books! There is nothing you haven’t risked for them. Taking inspiration from you even a tiny country like Norway with just a few devotees can top the world in book distribution. Krsna-sakti vina nahe tara pravartana, Antya 7.11. You’re directly empowered by Caitanya Mahaprabhu to preach so amazingly, that even the impossible can become possible!
In a letter to HH Tamal Krsna Maharaj, Srila Prabhupada states that, “To manage a sankirtana party nicely is more precious than all other activities. That is the verdict of Bhagavad Gita and the mission of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu.” 13 Nov, 1975. Although you’ve already risked your life carrying out this topmost service under the iron curtain, for so many years, even today you’re still doing this most precious activity by leading the sankirtana in New Zealand and further inspiring yatras all over the world.
Gurudev, your love for Srila Prabhupada’s books is contagious. Anyone who comes in contact with you can’t help but also get inspired to take shelter of Prabhupada’s books. I am one of those fortunate souls. Thank you for your guidance, support and inspiration. In a 1976 letter Srila Prabhupada states “If you feel at all indebted to me then you should preach vigorously like me. That is the proper way to repay me. Of course, no one can repay the debt to the spiritual master, but the spiritual master is very much pleased by such an attitude by the disciple”. Hence although it is impossible to repay my debt to you, I pray that you please bless me with the enthusiasm and determination to come to the level of “vigorously” distributing books here in Sydney, in an attempt to please you.
Aspiring to be your humble servant,
Bhava-vibhusana das
Bhuri Bhoja Das
Dear GuruMaharaj
Please Accept My Humble Obeisances
All Glories To SrilaPrabhupada
All Glories To You on This Most Auspicious Day.
By your Mercy I have Been given the Name Bhuri Bhoja Das , By your Mercy you have given me the Holy Name and the Association of your Devotees , What can be of more importance than this ? A life time of engaging in Devotional service and giving the opportunity to others . Living here at Sri Radhagiridhari Many devotees also a Performing the Yuga Dharma spreading the Glories of the Holy Name, it is very inspiring. Serving at the loft Cooking the Sunday feasts and Reading Bhagavad Gita to others . GuruMaharaj Many times You place the Importance of molding ones life on a Foundation of Stability in Ones Sadhana , I have found this very Effective as a daily practice. It Gives me a purpose in my life .One of your Instructions is in Sri Caitanya Caritamrta Madhya Lila 7.128
Yare dekha , tare kaha
Krsna -upadesa
Amara Ajnaya guru hana
Tara ei Desa
" Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Sri Krishna as they are given in the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam . In This way become a Spiritual Master and try to liberate everyone in this land ".
But there are those who wont be Grateful and they are mentioned Cleary in The Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7 text 15
Those Miscreants who are Grossly foolish , who are lowest among mankind , whose knowledge is stolen by illusion, and who partake of the atheistic nature are of Demons do not surrender unto me.
After Reading Vaisesika Maharajs Book " Our Family Business " It has inspired me to put foot to the pavement and Share with others the Importance of Book Distribuition, Which i do alongside The Harinam on Queen Street In Auckland.
Actually it was you who mentioned that " If You are in A Comfortable situation In Bhakti Yoga , that your actually not Making any Advancement, And When your put into difficulty then you are , so I have had these experiences, It can be unpleasant because I'm not Humble, though by going out you get spiritual Blood as Srila Bhaktisiddhanta mentions.
There are So Many Classes you have given , and i can vividly Remember the Class you talked about in the Srimad Bhagavatam 6.1.15 The History of the life of Ajamila
Translation: Only a Rare person who has adopted Complete Unalloyed Devotional Service to Krishna can uproot the weeds of Sinful Actions with No possibility that they will revive. He can do this simply By discharging devotional service , Just as the Sun can Immediately dissipate Fog by its Rays.
You represent the Sun as Krishna's Dear Devotee and Help us Destroy The fog like Consciousness that we carry , and invoke the presence of Krishna within our Hearts.
Recently I Was listening to one of your classes , there you were staying with a devotee in a 3 storie apartment Block after taking rest you heard a sound outside as you woke , you could understand that there was a Fire in the Building , As everyone started to evacuate they were trying to take anything they thought valuable , What did you take ? Your passports so you carry on with your Preaching , The Supersoul Was looking out for you . Thank you GuruMaharaj for all your Selfless service to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya your Blessings are within your Instructions , I pray life after life that I Can follow them.
Your Insignificant Servant
Bhuri Bhoja
Please Accept My Humble Obeisances
All Glories To SrilaPrabhupada
All Glories To You on This Most Auspicious Day.
By your Mercy I have Been given the Name Bhuri Bhoja Das , By your Mercy you have given me the Holy Name and the Association of your Devotees , What can be of more importance than this ? A life time of engaging in Devotional service and giving the opportunity to others . Living here at Sri Radhagiridhari Many devotees also a Performing the Yuga Dharma spreading the Glories of the Holy Name, it is very inspiring. Serving at the loft Cooking the Sunday feasts and Reading Bhagavad Gita to others . GuruMaharaj Many times You place the Importance of molding ones life on a Foundation of Stability in Ones Sadhana , I have found this very Effective as a daily practice. It Gives me a purpose in my life .One of your Instructions is in Sri Caitanya Caritamrta Madhya Lila 7.128
Yare dekha , tare kaha
Krsna -upadesa
Amara Ajnaya guru hana
Tara ei Desa
" Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Sri Krishna as they are given in the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam . In This way become a Spiritual Master and try to liberate everyone in this land ".
But there are those who wont be Grateful and they are mentioned Cleary in The Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7 text 15
Those Miscreants who are Grossly foolish , who are lowest among mankind , whose knowledge is stolen by illusion, and who partake of the atheistic nature are of Demons do not surrender unto me.
After Reading Vaisesika Maharajs Book " Our Family Business " It has inspired me to put foot to the pavement and Share with others the Importance of Book Distribuition, Which i do alongside The Harinam on Queen Street In Auckland.
Actually it was you who mentioned that " If You are in A Comfortable situation In Bhakti Yoga , that your actually not Making any Advancement, And When your put into difficulty then you are , so I have had these experiences, It can be unpleasant because I'm not Humble, though by going out you get spiritual Blood as Srila Bhaktisiddhanta mentions.
There are So Many Classes you have given , and i can vividly Remember the Class you talked about in the Srimad Bhagavatam 6.1.15 The History of the life of Ajamila
Translation: Only a Rare person who has adopted Complete Unalloyed Devotional Service to Krishna can uproot the weeds of Sinful Actions with No possibility that they will revive. He can do this simply By discharging devotional service , Just as the Sun can Immediately dissipate Fog by its Rays.
You represent the Sun as Krishna's Dear Devotee and Help us Destroy The fog like Consciousness that we carry , and invoke the presence of Krishna within our Hearts.
Recently I Was listening to one of your classes , there you were staying with a devotee in a 3 storie apartment Block after taking rest you heard a sound outside as you woke , you could understand that there was a Fire in the Building , As everyone started to evacuate they were trying to take anything they thought valuable , What did you take ? Your passports so you carry on with your Preaching , The Supersoul Was looking out for you . Thank you GuruMaharaj for all your Selfless service to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya your Blessings are within your Instructions , I pray life after life that I Can follow them.
Your Insignificant Servant
Bhuri Bhoja
Bimala Prasad Dasa and Family
nama oṁ viṣnu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to Your Lotus Feet.
All glories to You on this auspicious day.
Once again, by your mercy, Maharaja, we are able to perform your Vyasa Puja in your presence. By that same incessant mercy, you blessed us recently by accepting us as Brahmana disciples, though we are not endowed with any of the required Brahmana qualities. In contrast to our ineligibility and fallen nature, however, your saintly qualities shine like the Sun, dispelling the dense darkness covering conditioned souls like us caught in the clutches of the illusory energy, and it is these qualities I would like to take this opportunity to glorify by recounting some of my personal interactions with your dynamic self.
Maharaja, what I have realized in my experiences with you is that even though you appear externally to be as grave and imposing as a lion, your heart is just like butter, willing to melt for any devotee intent on rendering devotional service, no matter how insignificant. This is compounded by your lively wit, sense of humour and tolerance. This was evidenced during one of the opportunities we were given to serve you lunch prasadam during a farm retreat. That day, we were ambitiously planning to prepare a number of preparations for you, and as a result of this, we served your prasadam one hour late. Despite this offense on our part, you compassionately accepted our apologies and simply remarked to my wife "I think the kitchen was not favourable for you." In this way you tolerated our mishaps and allowed us to rectify our faults, which in turn allowed us to progress in Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
In another incident, I had the great fortune of meeting you in the Kuala Lumpur international airport terminal as I was travelling to India. I immediately offered by dandavat pranams at your lotus feet, whilst you constantly asked me to get up as everyone was watching. I did not do so, however, until I had finished offering pranamas. Upon rising, you questioned whether I had sufficient prasadam, and also gave me some of your own prasadam. In this way, you clearly showed the love and compassion you have for your disciples, and the care you take to ensure they progress on the path of bhakti. This concern is not only limited to your disciples, however, for you ardently follow in the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada and Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, and aim to deliver all suffering living entities from the shackles of material existence through your dynamic preaching and insightful realisations.
Hence on this auspicious day of your appearance we pray to Kṛṣṇa to grant you a long life so that you can continue to preach and deliver the countless conditioned souls like us. We also pray for your inexhaustible mercy so we can continue to serve your lotus feet and the lotus feet of the Vaiṣṇavas, for it is only through your and their blessings that we may even dream of approaching Kṛṣṇa.
Your most fallen of servants,
Bimala Prasad Dasa, Lalitha Prasad Devi Dasi,
Bhakta Charan and Bhaktin Kṛṣṇa Priya
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to Your Lotus Feet.
All glories to You on this auspicious day.
Once again, by your mercy, Maharaja, we are able to perform your Vyasa Puja in your presence. By that same incessant mercy, you blessed us recently by accepting us as Brahmana disciples, though we are not endowed with any of the required Brahmana qualities. In contrast to our ineligibility and fallen nature, however, your saintly qualities shine like the Sun, dispelling the dense darkness covering conditioned souls like us caught in the clutches of the illusory energy, and it is these qualities I would like to take this opportunity to glorify by recounting some of my personal interactions with your dynamic self.
Maharaja, what I have realized in my experiences with you is that even though you appear externally to be as grave and imposing as a lion, your heart is just like butter, willing to melt for any devotee intent on rendering devotional service, no matter how insignificant. This is compounded by your lively wit, sense of humour and tolerance. This was evidenced during one of the opportunities we were given to serve you lunch prasadam during a farm retreat. That day, we were ambitiously planning to prepare a number of preparations for you, and as a result of this, we served your prasadam one hour late. Despite this offense on our part, you compassionately accepted our apologies and simply remarked to my wife "I think the kitchen was not favourable for you." In this way you tolerated our mishaps and allowed us to rectify our faults, which in turn allowed us to progress in Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
In another incident, I had the great fortune of meeting you in the Kuala Lumpur international airport terminal as I was travelling to India. I immediately offered by dandavat pranams at your lotus feet, whilst you constantly asked me to get up as everyone was watching. I did not do so, however, until I had finished offering pranamas. Upon rising, you questioned whether I had sufficient prasadam, and also gave me some of your own prasadam. In this way, you clearly showed the love and compassion you have for your disciples, and the care you take to ensure they progress on the path of bhakti. This concern is not only limited to your disciples, however, for you ardently follow in the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada and Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, and aim to deliver all suffering living entities from the shackles of material existence through your dynamic preaching and insightful realisations.
Hence on this auspicious day of your appearance we pray to Kṛṣṇa to grant you a long life so that you can continue to preach and deliver the countless conditioned souls like us. We also pray for your inexhaustible mercy so we can continue to serve your lotus feet and the lotus feet of the Vaiṣṇavas, for it is only through your and their blessings that we may even dream of approaching Kṛṣṇa.
Your most fallen of servants,
Bimala Prasad Dasa, Lalitha Prasad Devi Dasi,
Bhakta Charan and Bhaktin Kṛṣṇa Priya
BrahmaKund Dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances
I would like to thank you for your patience, support and guidance to keep me engaged in devotional service. One time in a talk, you were discussing that when we chant and do service, we have an expectation that Krishna will reciprocate with our efforts but if we do not get the reciprocation we are looking for, we get upset and doubt the process. However, you mentioned that Krishna is not obliged to reciprocate with our service, if Krishna does reciprocate, that is his causeless mercy.
While going to work every day, I walk past many homeless people lying on the street. In my mind sometimes I feel sorry for them but most of the time I think they are insignificant, useless people who have made wrong choices and now their lives are just about taking drugs, alcohol and creating disturbances. My mind tells me, even if I do try to tell something for their benefit, no one is interested in listening to me, they are doomed in their ignorance. Hardly anyone going past these homeless people stop to talk to them, at the most people will drop some coins, coffee or food and then feeling good, everyone goes their merry way.
But recently, it dawned on me, that my situation in the material world is exactly like these homeless people, I have made wrong choices and now I am intoxicated with illusion and false ego. What was the hope for me? Yet, out of your compassion you have stopped, you have taken time out of your busy schedule to think about me, talk to me and engage me in devotional service. When in my state of intoxication, I an unwilling to listen to your good advice, you patiently wait for me to sober down. While I try to render some service which is full of faults, out of your causeless mercy you tolerate the faults and although there is no obligation on your part, you always encourage and reciprocate with the insignificant service.
In a letter to Amogha on 22 May 1972, encouraging preaching and book distribution work, Srila Prabhupada said:
“Make the covers of the book very much attractive so that automatically they will read the knowledge inside. The covers are like the mind and the senses, and the contents of the book are the soul. So sometimes, in order to attract people to find out what is the soul, we have to decorate the mind and the senses and make the presentation of Krishna consciousness very palatable to them.”
When I read this, I immediately thought of your latest book “Hiding in Unnatural Happiness”. Seeing the book, people get very attracted to both the title and the cover. For me, book distribution on the street is very hard but even I find it easier to distribute this book, because you do not have to say anything, seeing the title and cover, people themselves say: “I want this book. How much is this for?” So it is not a surprise that within the first year the first print was sold out. We hear so many stories of how after reading your book, people bought Bhagavad Gita As It Is or started the process of Krishna Consciousness. I personally had an experience where someone bought and read Hiding in Unnatural Happiness, immediately after reading it, she was so moved by the information that on her own she gave up drugs and other intoxications, which she had been taking for half of her life, about 15 years.
Thank you Gurudeva, for your selfless service, for spending your time, energy and going out of your way to show compassion and saving the lives of so many homeless people.
I hope and pray that I can in some small way assist you in your service
Your Insignificant Servant
Brahmakund dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances
I would like to thank you for your patience, support and guidance to keep me engaged in devotional service. One time in a talk, you were discussing that when we chant and do service, we have an expectation that Krishna will reciprocate with our efforts but if we do not get the reciprocation we are looking for, we get upset and doubt the process. However, you mentioned that Krishna is not obliged to reciprocate with our service, if Krishna does reciprocate, that is his causeless mercy.
While going to work every day, I walk past many homeless people lying on the street. In my mind sometimes I feel sorry for them but most of the time I think they are insignificant, useless people who have made wrong choices and now their lives are just about taking drugs, alcohol and creating disturbances. My mind tells me, even if I do try to tell something for their benefit, no one is interested in listening to me, they are doomed in their ignorance. Hardly anyone going past these homeless people stop to talk to them, at the most people will drop some coins, coffee or food and then feeling good, everyone goes their merry way.
But recently, it dawned on me, that my situation in the material world is exactly like these homeless people, I have made wrong choices and now I am intoxicated with illusion and false ego. What was the hope for me? Yet, out of your compassion you have stopped, you have taken time out of your busy schedule to think about me, talk to me and engage me in devotional service. When in my state of intoxication, I an unwilling to listen to your good advice, you patiently wait for me to sober down. While I try to render some service which is full of faults, out of your causeless mercy you tolerate the faults and although there is no obligation on your part, you always encourage and reciprocate with the insignificant service.
In a letter to Amogha on 22 May 1972, encouraging preaching and book distribution work, Srila Prabhupada said:
“Make the covers of the book very much attractive so that automatically they will read the knowledge inside. The covers are like the mind and the senses, and the contents of the book are the soul. So sometimes, in order to attract people to find out what is the soul, we have to decorate the mind and the senses and make the presentation of Krishna consciousness very palatable to them.”
When I read this, I immediately thought of your latest book “Hiding in Unnatural Happiness”. Seeing the book, people get very attracted to both the title and the cover. For me, book distribution on the street is very hard but even I find it easier to distribute this book, because you do not have to say anything, seeing the title and cover, people themselves say: “I want this book. How much is this for?” So it is not a surprise that within the first year the first print was sold out. We hear so many stories of how after reading your book, people bought Bhagavad Gita As It Is or started the process of Krishna Consciousness. I personally had an experience where someone bought and read Hiding in Unnatural Happiness, immediately after reading it, she was so moved by the information that on her own she gave up drugs and other intoxications, which she had been taking for half of her life, about 15 years.
Thank you Gurudeva, for your selfless service, for spending your time, energy and going out of your way to show compassion and saving the lives of so many homeless people.
I hope and pray that I can in some small way assist you in your service
Your Insignificant Servant
Brahmakund dasa
Buddhimanta Dasa
Hare Krishna dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your Vyasa Puja 2017.
Guru Maharaj, when I read qualities of a bona fide guru in Caitanya Caritamrita like guru must be uttama-adhikari who can never fall down, must be maha bhagavata, must be liberated soul, does not deviate at all, receives direct dictation from Lord Krishna, always embraced by Krishna, resident of the spiritual world, identified with God Himself, body is completely spiritual, empowered to act as he likes etc., smile appears on my face in a form of gratitude to Lord Nityanand who was very kind to send me a perfect spiritual master who is directly corresponding to all the good qualities of a guru listed in the scriptures. Guru maharaj this is nothing else but your mercy to retain this useless servant under your safe care.
Guru Maharaj, by your mercy I am still able to carry on my services at Noida temple. I am continuously thinking of your personal instructions to me to go deeper in chanting and not just casual chanting to experience the real taste of chanting. I have been working on it and there is some improvement but many more rungs to be climbed to get to a point where I can relate each verse of shiksha ashtakam to the quality of my chanting. On my own I am not capable to realise any higher taste but guru maharaj your mercy can do wonders. You please keep instructing me and I will keep trying to reach the level of your expectation, Krishna prema.
My another short coming, I am still suffering from my old disease of seeing perfection especially in managing temple affairs. I find it very difficult to stay quite when I see things are not been managed up to the standard put in place by Srila Prabhupada. And this bad habit brings not only unhappiness but also unpopularity to me. I remind myself of the area of concern versus area of influence explained by yourself and that comes handy to check my moves. But I must admit that this self-reminder does not come on time always. So life becomes see-saw between stand up-give up attitude. Need your merciful glances to stay composed in a detached mood while rendering whatever services I am assigned with.
Guru maharaj, I am praying at your lotus feet on the most auspicious day to cure my diseased condition and help me with your expert guidance in managing self. Praying to Lord Caitanya to bless you with a long and healthy life to recover more lost souls from this mortal world and engage them to His blissful sankirtana revolution.
Thank you Guru Maharaj. Happy Vyasa Puja day Guru Maharaj.
Your humble servant,
Buddhimanta Dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your Vyasa Puja 2017.
Guru Maharaj, when I read qualities of a bona fide guru in Caitanya Caritamrita like guru must be uttama-adhikari who can never fall down, must be maha bhagavata, must be liberated soul, does not deviate at all, receives direct dictation from Lord Krishna, always embraced by Krishna, resident of the spiritual world, identified with God Himself, body is completely spiritual, empowered to act as he likes etc., smile appears on my face in a form of gratitude to Lord Nityanand who was very kind to send me a perfect spiritual master who is directly corresponding to all the good qualities of a guru listed in the scriptures. Guru maharaj this is nothing else but your mercy to retain this useless servant under your safe care.
Guru Maharaj, by your mercy I am still able to carry on my services at Noida temple. I am continuously thinking of your personal instructions to me to go deeper in chanting and not just casual chanting to experience the real taste of chanting. I have been working on it and there is some improvement but many more rungs to be climbed to get to a point where I can relate each verse of shiksha ashtakam to the quality of my chanting. On my own I am not capable to realise any higher taste but guru maharaj your mercy can do wonders. You please keep instructing me and I will keep trying to reach the level of your expectation, Krishna prema.
My another short coming, I am still suffering from my old disease of seeing perfection especially in managing temple affairs. I find it very difficult to stay quite when I see things are not been managed up to the standard put in place by Srila Prabhupada. And this bad habit brings not only unhappiness but also unpopularity to me. I remind myself of the area of concern versus area of influence explained by yourself and that comes handy to check my moves. But I must admit that this self-reminder does not come on time always. So life becomes see-saw between stand up-give up attitude. Need your merciful glances to stay composed in a detached mood while rendering whatever services I am assigned with.
Guru maharaj, I am praying at your lotus feet on the most auspicious day to cure my diseased condition and help me with your expert guidance in managing self. Praying to Lord Caitanya to bless you with a long and healthy life to recover more lost souls from this mortal world and engage them to His blissful sankirtana revolution.
Thank you Guru Maharaj. Happy Vyasa Puja day Guru Maharaj.
Your humble servant,
Buddhimanta Dasa
Caitanya Vihara das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you, on this most auspicious day of your Vyasa-puja celebration!
This year I would like to take the opportunity to glorify your expertise in guiding dependents.
You know how to perfectly respond to your disciples according to the time, place, circumstance and individual.
Lions are famous for the variety of ways in which they respond to their cubs. Sometimes they roar at them, sometimes they swat them with ‘the paw of correction’, sometimes they play with them and sometimes (when the cubs get completely carried away) the lions ignore them!
Of course this example is mundane, but still, as a magnanimous leader of the devotees, you demonstrate such dynamic skills in dealing with your own spiritual cubs.
Indeed, as I prepare to enter the next phase of life, your advice and presence have become all the more crucial.
When juniors require correction, material authorities often oscillate between enviously blasting and neglecting their juniors. We are so fortunate to have you as our spiritual guide and father, because your purity empowers you to lovingly correct.
I am amazed at how you can simultaneously chastise and encourage.
At the start of Bhagavad Gita, Krishna responds to Arjuna in no uncertain terms:
“While speaking learned words, you are mourning for what is not worthy of grief. Those who are wise lament neither for the living nor the dead.”
In his purport, Srila Prabhupada explains:
“The Lord at once took the position of the teacher and chastised the student, calling him, indirectly, a fool. The Lord said, you are talking like a learned man, but you do not know that one who is learned—one who knows what is body and what is soul—does not lament for any stage of the body, neither in the living nor in the dead condition.”
Similarly, as I also hanker and lament, caught in the bodily conception, you kindly and patiently correct. Just as Sri Krishna indirectly called Arjuna a fool, your words empower us to realise our own shortcomings and grow as individuals, without completely smashing us to smithereens. You are able to find the perfect balance in communicating with us; you are candid and honest, yet sensitive and subtle.
I really appreciate how you respect our individuality and minute independence, whilst also clearly speaking the truth.
Thank you for tolerating me!
Seeking your guidance and blessings as always,
Your servant,
Caitanya Vihara das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you, on this most auspicious day of your Vyasa-puja celebration!
This year I would like to take the opportunity to glorify your expertise in guiding dependents.
You know how to perfectly respond to your disciples according to the time, place, circumstance and individual.
Lions are famous for the variety of ways in which they respond to their cubs. Sometimes they roar at them, sometimes they swat them with ‘the paw of correction’, sometimes they play with them and sometimes (when the cubs get completely carried away) the lions ignore them!
Of course this example is mundane, but still, as a magnanimous leader of the devotees, you demonstrate such dynamic skills in dealing with your own spiritual cubs.
Indeed, as I prepare to enter the next phase of life, your advice and presence have become all the more crucial.
When juniors require correction, material authorities often oscillate between enviously blasting and neglecting their juniors. We are so fortunate to have you as our spiritual guide and father, because your purity empowers you to lovingly correct.
I am amazed at how you can simultaneously chastise and encourage.
At the start of Bhagavad Gita, Krishna responds to Arjuna in no uncertain terms:
“While speaking learned words, you are mourning for what is not worthy of grief. Those who are wise lament neither for the living nor the dead.”
In his purport, Srila Prabhupada explains:
“The Lord at once took the position of the teacher and chastised the student, calling him, indirectly, a fool. The Lord said, you are talking like a learned man, but you do not know that one who is learned—one who knows what is body and what is soul—does not lament for any stage of the body, neither in the living nor in the dead condition.”
Similarly, as I also hanker and lament, caught in the bodily conception, you kindly and patiently correct. Just as Sri Krishna indirectly called Arjuna a fool, your words empower us to realise our own shortcomings and grow as individuals, without completely smashing us to smithereens. You are able to find the perfect balance in communicating with us; you are candid and honest, yet sensitive and subtle.
I really appreciate how you respect our individuality and minute independence, whilst also clearly speaking the truth.
Thank you for tolerating me!
Seeking your guidance and blessings as always,
Your servant,
Caitanya Vihara das
Cancala-Laksmi devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.</div> <div style="text-indent: 1em;">All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.</div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">One of the first times I remember hearing you speak was in Melbourne at a home program in 2012. The theme of your discussion was progress. You began by asking everyone what <i>their</i> definition of "progress" was. You asked each person in the room and when you asked me, the only thing I could think of was a poem I’d read called, “Autobiography in Five Short Chapters” by Portia Nelson. It goes like this:</div>
I
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost…I am helpless.
It isn’t my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.
II
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend that I don’t see it.
I fall in again.
I can’t believe I am in this same place.
But, it isn’t my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.
III
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep whole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in…it’s a habit…but,
My eyes are open
I know where I am
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.
IV
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.
V
I walk down another street.
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">After I paraphrased the poem, you cut through the clouds and began detailing what <i>real</i> progress is–Spiritual progress. As Srila Prabhupada illuminates:</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em;"> “The ultimate goal of progress is Kṛṣṇa. People do not know this; therefore the association of devotees and a bona fide spiritual master are important. One should know that the goal is Kṛṣṇa, and when the goal is assigned, then the path is slowly but progressively traversed, and the ultimate goal is achieved.” [<i>Bhagavad-Gita 10.10, purport</i>] </div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Gurudeva, you are expert at giving spiritual guidance aimed at real progress. You ensure that we keep moving ahead, keep reaching towards Kṛṣṇa, and are steadily serving His devotees. Thank you for giving me real spiritual knowledge, so that I have the guidance to see which streets <i>not</i> to walk down on my <i>bhakti</i> path.</div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Being in the association of your many resplendent disciples and devotees under your care, I often marvel at how attached they are to your instructions, how dedicated they are to assisting you, and think, <i>“How can I imbibe this mood?”</i> </div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Srila Prabhupada makes it so clear:</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em;">“One has to receive the transcendental sound from the right source, accept it as a reality and prosecute the direction without hesitation. The secret of success is to receive the sound from the right source of a bona fide spiritual master…Following the order of the bona fide spiritual master is the only duty of the disciple, and this completely faithful execution of the order of the bona fide spiritual master is the secret of success.” [<i>Srimad-Bhagavatam 2.9.8, purport</i>] </div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Gurudeva on this day I beg you to please bless me that I may always faithfully remember your instructions, and that I may execute them without a moment’s hesitation.</div>
Praying to be a useful instrument in your mission,
Your aspiring servant,
Cancala-Laksmi devi dasi
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.</div> <div style="text-indent: 1em;">All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.</div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">One of the first times I remember hearing you speak was in Melbourne at a home program in 2012. The theme of your discussion was progress. You began by asking everyone what <i>their</i> definition of "progress" was. You asked each person in the room and when you asked me, the only thing I could think of was a poem I’d read called, “Autobiography in Five Short Chapters” by Portia Nelson. It goes like this:</div>
I
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I fall in.
I am lost…I am helpless.
It isn’t my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.
II
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend that I don’t see it.
I fall in again.
I can’t believe I am in this same place.
But, it isn’t my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.
III
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep whole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in…it’s a habit…but,
My eyes are open
I know where I am
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.
IV
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.
V
I walk down another street.
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">After I paraphrased the poem, you cut through the clouds and began detailing what <i>real</i> progress is–Spiritual progress. As Srila Prabhupada illuminates:</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em;"> “The ultimate goal of progress is Kṛṣṇa. People do not know this; therefore the association of devotees and a bona fide spiritual master are important. One should know that the goal is Kṛṣṇa, and when the goal is assigned, then the path is slowly but progressively traversed, and the ultimate goal is achieved.” [<i>Bhagavad-Gita 10.10, purport</i>] </div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Gurudeva, you are expert at giving spiritual guidance aimed at real progress. You ensure that we keep moving ahead, keep reaching towards Kṛṣṇa, and are steadily serving His devotees. Thank you for giving me real spiritual knowledge, so that I have the guidance to see which streets <i>not</i> to walk down on my <i>bhakti</i> path.</div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Being in the association of your many resplendent disciples and devotees under your care, I often marvel at how attached they are to your instructions, how dedicated they are to assisting you, and think, <i>“How can I imbibe this mood?”</i> </div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Srila Prabhupada makes it so clear:</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em;">“One has to receive the transcendental sound from the right source, accept it as a reality and prosecute the direction without hesitation. The secret of success is to receive the sound from the right source of a bona fide spiritual master…Following the order of the bona fide spiritual master is the only duty of the disciple, and this completely faithful execution of the order of the bona fide spiritual master is the secret of success.” [<i>Srimad-Bhagavatam 2.9.8, purport</i>] </div>
<div style="text-indent: 1em;">Gurudeva on this day I beg you to please bless me that I may always faithfully remember your instructions, and that I may execute them without a moment’s hesitation.</div>
Praying to be a useful instrument in your mission,
Your aspiring servant,
Cancala-Laksmi devi dasi
Candanesvara Das
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept our humble obeisance!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to your divine appearance day
In temple of brick and mortar,
Lord Krishna may not reside.
But to love of His pure devotee
The Supreme must also abide.
O master, you are a temple
From you, Krishna cannot part.
I beseech you to give us shelter
At the altar of your heart.
In our eagerness to see Him
We approach directly in arrogance.
But the Lord He is hiding
Behind curtains of illusion and ignorance.
Doomed are our attempts
Without your lotus hands.
To tear apart these curtains
And reveal the spiritual lands.
We were wandering around this universe
Serving maya thanklessly
Hundreds of thousands of lifetimes
Suffering, so lost and lonely.
Your divine words, good instruction
Just meeting you, so very fortunate!
From ‘maya’ das to ‘Krishna’ das
You changed our terrible fate
To distribute His causeless mercy
Krishna sends His favourites
To deliver fallen souls like us
He empowers His associates
To the dust of your lotus feet
Nothing in the fourteen worlds can compare
Today we seek your mercy, Dear Gurudev
And your eternal shelter.
Your servants,
Candanesvara Das,
Suvarna Radhika Devi Dasi
Narrotam & Sudama
Please accept our humble obeisance!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to your divine appearance day
In temple of brick and mortar,
Lord Krishna may not reside.
But to love of His pure devotee
The Supreme must also abide.
O master, you are a temple
From you, Krishna cannot part.
I beseech you to give us shelter
At the altar of your heart.
In our eagerness to see Him
We approach directly in arrogance.
But the Lord He is hiding
Behind curtains of illusion and ignorance.
Doomed are our attempts
Without your lotus hands.
To tear apart these curtains
And reveal the spiritual lands.
We were wandering around this universe
Serving maya thanklessly
Hundreds of thousands of lifetimes
Suffering, so lost and lonely.
Your divine words, good instruction
Just meeting you, so very fortunate!
From ‘maya’ das to ‘Krishna’ das
You changed our terrible fate
To distribute His causeless mercy
Krishna sends His favourites
To deliver fallen souls like us
He empowers His associates
To the dust of your lotus feet
Nothing in the fourteen worlds can compare
Today we seek your mercy, Dear Gurudev
And your eternal shelter.
Your servants,
Candanesvara Das,
Suvarna Radhika Devi Dasi
Narrotam & Sudama
Candidasa dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I want to make lots of money, said the student to the wise man,
computers are the future, from the big bang everything began.
There's no reason for anything, but we are supreme,
and yet, I don't know what I want, and I lack self-esteem.
That won't make you happy, the guru kindly did say,
you're not into partying, all the money is fake.
Chant this mantra, 16 rounds per day,
your life has value and isn't a mistake.
I can hardly believe, this mantra's so blissful,
but my digestion fails, and the pain is so awful.
I'm not the body, I experience first hand,
surrender, I want to, to Krishna's command.
To an island in the pacific, I send you away,
Learn to cook, read 2 hours a day.
Distribute books on the street,
transform yourself and anyone you meet.
A chariot was approaching with two people aboard,
one spoke to the other, surrendering to the Lord.
Off in the distance, many conch shells did blow,
"I shall not fight", he said, throwing down his bow.
Grateful, I am, to you for pointing me towards the reward of service to the Lord.
your servant,
Candidasa dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I want to make lots of money, said the student to the wise man,
computers are the future, from the big bang everything began.
There's no reason for anything, but we are supreme,
and yet, I don't know what I want, and I lack self-esteem.
That won't make you happy, the guru kindly did say,
you're not into partying, all the money is fake.
Chant this mantra, 16 rounds per day,
your life has value and isn't a mistake.
I can hardly believe, this mantra's so blissful,
but my digestion fails, and the pain is so awful.
I'm not the body, I experience first hand,
surrender, I want to, to Krishna's command.
To an island in the pacific, I send you away,
Learn to cook, read 2 hours a day.
Distribute books on the street,
transform yourself and anyone you meet.
A chariot was approaching with two people aboard,
one spoke to the other, surrendering to the Lord.
Off in the distance, many conch shells did blow,
"I shall not fight", he said, throwing down his bow.
Grateful, I am, to you for pointing me towards the reward of service to the Lord.
your servant,
Candidasa dasa
Caru Candravali dd
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances . All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I would like to wish you a Happy Birthday and and make a small offering to you.
Gurudeva, I am always very impressed and amazed by your dedication in serving your spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada had a big vision and always made big plans for Lord Chaitanyas movement. You, Gurudeva, have understood the mood of your spiritual master well ,and dedicated your life to following Srila Prabhupada’s instructions and fulfilling his desire to preach and expand the movement in the western world. Here is an excerpt from one of the many letters that Srila Prabhupada had exchanged with devotees, stressing the point about preaching in the west:
" My missionary activities are especially meant for the Western countries. To go to India is a secondary question, the primary thing is that we establish our institution firmly in the Western countries. So when we are sound in our preaching work in the Western countries, that news automatically goes to India as it is already publicized." - Letter from Srila Prabhupada to Tamal Krishna, LA, May 27th, 1970
In this regard, your urban preaching program is a great success. People who would have never though they would become devotees, have taken up Bhakti yoga. Without your compassionate outreach programs , where would they be now? Where would I be? You told me once that I needed to scheme how to do service for Krishna, so I am trying to learn from you, as this urban preaching is a great spiritual scheme, which many are yet to appreciate .
You also appreciate that Srila Prabhupada wanted farm communities, as he could see how detrimental the urban rat race lifestyle is to chanting Hare Krishna. Just before Srila Prabhupada left his body, he wanted to go to Gita Nagari and show devotees how to live on land by growing food and protecting the cows. You have been reviving Gita Nagari and helping devotees understand how farming is one of the key points in enhancing and facilitating Lord Chaytanya’s movement.
Thank you very much Gurudeva, please forgive me for any shortcomings in my service.
Your servant and spiritual daughter
Caru Candravali dd
Please accept my humble obeisances . All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I would like to wish you a Happy Birthday and and make a small offering to you.
Gurudeva, I am always very impressed and amazed by your dedication in serving your spiritual master, His Divine Grace A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada.
Srila Prabhupada had a big vision and always made big plans for Lord Chaitanyas movement. You, Gurudeva, have understood the mood of your spiritual master well ,and dedicated your life to following Srila Prabhupada’s instructions and fulfilling his desire to preach and expand the movement in the western world. Here is an excerpt from one of the many letters that Srila Prabhupada had exchanged with devotees, stressing the point about preaching in the west:
" My missionary activities are especially meant for the Western countries. To go to India is a secondary question, the primary thing is that we establish our institution firmly in the Western countries. So when we are sound in our preaching work in the Western countries, that news automatically goes to India as it is already publicized." - Letter from Srila Prabhupada to Tamal Krishna, LA, May 27th, 1970
In this regard, your urban preaching program is a great success. People who would have never though they would become devotees, have taken up Bhakti yoga. Without your compassionate outreach programs , where would they be now? Where would I be? You told me once that I needed to scheme how to do service for Krishna, so I am trying to learn from you, as this urban preaching is a great spiritual scheme, which many are yet to appreciate .
You also appreciate that Srila Prabhupada wanted farm communities, as he could see how detrimental the urban rat race lifestyle is to chanting Hare Krishna. Just before Srila Prabhupada left his body, he wanted to go to Gita Nagari and show devotees how to live on land by growing food and protecting the cows. You have been reviving Gita Nagari and helping devotees understand how farming is one of the key points in enhancing and facilitating Lord Chaytanya’s movement.
Thank you very much Gurudeva, please forgive me for any shortcomings in my service.
Your servant and spiritual daughter
Caru Candravali dd
Charana Renu Dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
This year on your Vyasa Puja, I am feeling gratitude for the way you have raised me in Krishna consciousness. As a good and kind parent, you have given me the best guidance and the freedom to make my own choices.
You taught me to study Srila Prabhupada’s books daily, with respect, care, and intelligence. You taught me by your own example to relish those books and to try to understand them from many angles. You never asked me to to accept anything blindly; instead you encouraged and inspired me to learn through experience, in the “bhakti laboratory.” Your instructions on chanting helped me go deeper.
You taught me to trust my intuition and intelligence, and to use my independence to serve Krishna in an authentic way. Not once did you ask me or expect me to give up any of my independence or my material belongings, or to artificially renounce or neglect my material mind or body. Instead you taught me by your words and by your example to take care of myself, to be healthy, and I always felt that you wanted me to be happy. You taught me how to have fun in Krishna consciousness and you gave me the space to do it in my own way.
Thank you!
Even though I haven’t had much direct contact with you in recent years, your example continues to teach and inspire me from afar. I pray that you may continue your good parenting for many, many years to come, and that I will get to hear your wise words and your hearty laugh in person once again very soon.
Your aspiring servant, Charana Renu Dasi.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
This year on your Vyasa Puja, I am feeling gratitude for the way you have raised me in Krishna consciousness. As a good and kind parent, you have given me the best guidance and the freedom to make my own choices.
You taught me to study Srila Prabhupada’s books daily, with respect, care, and intelligence. You taught me by your own example to relish those books and to try to understand them from many angles. You never asked me to to accept anything blindly; instead you encouraged and inspired me to learn through experience, in the “bhakti laboratory.” Your instructions on chanting helped me go deeper.
You taught me to trust my intuition and intelligence, and to use my independence to serve Krishna in an authentic way. Not once did you ask me or expect me to give up any of my independence or my material belongings, or to artificially renounce or neglect my material mind or body. Instead you taught me by your words and by your example to take care of myself, to be healthy, and I always felt that you wanted me to be happy. You taught me how to have fun in Krishna consciousness and you gave me the space to do it in my own way.
Thank you!
Even though I haven’t had much direct contact with you in recent years, your example continues to teach and inspire me from afar. I pray that you may continue your good parenting for many, many years to come, and that I will get to hear your wise words and your hearty laugh in person once again very soon.
Your aspiring servant, Charana Renu Dasi.
Chintamani Dham dd
Hare Krishna
Dear guru maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisance into your lotus feet.
Guru Maharaj, we do wait for this day whole year. The day your Vyasa Puja is celebrated is very special for us. We are very fortunate that we have got our spiritual master like you.
We have started our Bhakti Sastri again and we have started Nectar of Devotion recently. The book starts with the discussion about Guru-Tatva and Krishna. Anyone who is worshipable after God is Guru, who can get us delivered from the ocean of Maya. There is no other way. Vedic scriptures says that the association of Sadhu even for a moment can get you perfection in life. I understand that you are that Sadhu, with whom our association has changed our life. I could realize it after getting shelter into your lotus feet. Your teachings are very important for me. Whenever I stuck into any problem and every door seems to be closed, I do concentrate on your teachings and get rid off that particular situation very easily. Like a child remembers his fathers when He is in trouble, I do remember you similarly. Guru Maharaj, my life is full of many imperfections and shortcomings. I have committed lots of offence at your lotus feet. I beg for your forgiveness and for the spiritual strength to work on eliminating the balance of Anarthas in my heart. Guru mahraj, many many thanks for everything you have done for me. I may be full of errors and could be continue to do mistakes at your lotus feet, still I pray that please be merciful to me. You are my only hope, you are the captain of our boat, who can deliver us from material sufferings and take us back to godhead.
Thank you Guru Maharaj
Your humble servant
Chintamani Dham DD
ISKCON Noida
Dear guru maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisance into your lotus feet.
Guru Maharaj, we do wait for this day whole year. The day your Vyasa Puja is celebrated is very special for us. We are very fortunate that we have got our spiritual master like you.
We have started our Bhakti Sastri again and we have started Nectar of Devotion recently. The book starts with the discussion about Guru-Tatva and Krishna. Anyone who is worshipable after God is Guru, who can get us delivered from the ocean of Maya. There is no other way. Vedic scriptures says that the association of Sadhu even for a moment can get you perfection in life. I understand that you are that Sadhu, with whom our association has changed our life. I could realize it after getting shelter into your lotus feet. Your teachings are very important for me. Whenever I stuck into any problem and every door seems to be closed, I do concentrate on your teachings and get rid off that particular situation very easily. Like a child remembers his fathers when He is in trouble, I do remember you similarly. Guru Maharaj, my life is full of many imperfections and shortcomings. I have committed lots of offence at your lotus feet. I beg for your forgiveness and for the spiritual strength to work on eliminating the balance of Anarthas in my heart. Guru mahraj, many many thanks for everything you have done for me. I may be full of errors and could be continue to do mistakes at your lotus feet, still I pray that please be merciful to me. You are my only hope, you are the captain of our boat, who can deliver us from material sufferings and take us back to godhead.
Thank you Guru Maharaj
Your humble servant
Chintamani Dham DD
ISKCON Noida
Chonelle Evans
Dear Devamrita Swami,
Please accept my humble & respectful obesceinces unto your lotus feet and all glories to Srila prabhupad & all assembled devotees,
To be as humble as a blade of grass is certainly how I feel when I write this and look at how much that I have learned through my journey of Krishna Consciousness with being exposed to your eloquent writings, classes & sincere heart of being of service to us all through delivering Srila prabhupads words of such wisdom & science of self realisation...
I thank you for never giving up on me and supporting me through the delivery of your inspiring talks,Bhakti Retreats & motivational reminders of why it is so important to chant, associate with Devotees through giving & receiving in all ways that nurture our growth through sharing prasadam & actively seeking devotional service and having Krishna in the centre of my life no matter what is going on.
Thank you for being a role model who exemplifies such pious qualities which as my spiritual Father continues to inspire me through my walk in Krishna Conciousness.
Happy Appearance day to you, may you continue to be fully blessed as you already are with the gift of sharing this amazing truth...
Your servant
Chonelle Evans
Please accept my humble & respectful obesceinces unto your lotus feet and all glories to Srila prabhupad & all assembled devotees,
To be as humble as a blade of grass is certainly how I feel when I write this and look at how much that I have learned through my journey of Krishna Consciousness with being exposed to your eloquent writings, classes & sincere heart of being of service to us all through delivering Srila prabhupads words of such wisdom & science of self realisation...
I thank you for never giving up on me and supporting me through the delivery of your inspiring talks,Bhakti Retreats & motivational reminders of why it is so important to chant, associate with Devotees through giving & receiving in all ways that nurture our growth through sharing prasadam & actively seeking devotional service and having Krishna in the centre of my life no matter what is going on.
Thank you for being a role model who exemplifies such pious qualities which as my spiritual Father continues to inspire me through my walk in Krishna Conciousness.
Happy Appearance day to you, may you continue to be fully blessed as you already are with the gift of sharing this amazing truth...
Your servant
Chonelle Evans
Dainyarnava Das
Dear Maharaj,
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All Glories to your Lotus feet.
Today I would like to wish you a very happy Appearance day.
The person who gifted me the holy name.
Whenever I feel inferior in this material world, I know that I am walking towards a higher goal.
Looking back at my life, mainly driven to make a change, I now realize life is indeed short and troublesome.
Sankirtan is life.
All my bhakti efforts and all your efforts to help me have been worth it.
Thank you. Happy birthday.
Your servant,
Dainyarnava Das
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All Glories to your Lotus feet.
Today I would like to wish you a very happy Appearance day.
The person who gifted me the holy name.
Whenever I feel inferior in this material world, I know that I am walking towards a higher goal.
Looking back at my life, mainly driven to make a change, I now realize life is indeed short and troublesome.
Sankirtan is life.
All my bhakti efforts and all your efforts to help me have been worth it.
Thank you. Happy birthday.
Your servant,
Dainyarnava Das
Daityari Hari dasa
Dear Devamrita Swami,
I offer my humble obeisance’s to you, please give me the shelter of your lotus feet.
A subject that’s been coming up a lot in recent week’s of Bhagavatam class, and one in particular that Tarakanatha prabhu gave recently is that of developing the quality of gratitude. The diametrically opposed mentality of the devotee, and the non devotee in this regard is dramatic. Reflecting on my own life, it’s quiet embarrassing how deep rooted the sense of entitlement is. As a general principal, people these days are completely blind to the fact that they’re fully dependent on Krsna for absolutely everything they hold dear. It’s actually only when they lose that personal ability, material object or personal relationship with someone else that they blame God. They privately think to themselves “if there really is a God, why doesn’t he meet my every demand and stay out of my affairs thereafter, so I don’t have to acknowledge Him, and instead claim my own supremacy, while I exploit his creation to my hearts content. It’s this demoniac mentality that breeds animosity and hatred between us, we fail to establish relationships (aside from those based on mutual exploitation) and our lack of gratitude or consideration for Krsna, comes back on us, as we become isolated bewildered and confused by life, feeling hard done by and completely miserable, absorbed in our own artificial bubble of hopelessness and despair.
In complete contrast to this, as a personal example, you’ve surrendered yourself completely to Krsna, always finding innovative and fresh ways to please him. Out pure compassion and in the mood of Lord Nityananda, Prahlada, and Srila Prabupada, you fearlessly go everywhere and freely distribute love of God to everyone regardless of whether they deserve it or not. Being always absorbed in trying to please Krsna, you never take into account your own personal comfort or convieniences but instead sacrifice them for the welfare of others, which, although always apparent, was particularly demonstrated when you went behind the Iron Curtain to preach. The result of this mentality is that you appear always blissful in all circumstances, only feeling pained by the fallen and degraded condition of those drowning in the ocean of Kali Yuga.
I believe your legacy will be how you revolutionized city preaching in the Western world. In fact I would go as far to say that your efforts and innovations in this area are the blueprint by which the somewhat stagnating world of ISKCON city preaching can redeem itself and move back in the direction that Prabhupad would have wanted. Prabhupada wanted enthusiastic, young missionaries driving on Lord Caitanya’s movement and to this end your success in inspiring and developing these types of people has been exemplary.
Going back to the subject of gratitude, it’s quiet clear that we are completely dependent on the mercy of personalities like you if we are to have any chance of re-establishing our fractured relationship with Krsna. Whatever little we know of who we are and whatever tiny trace of good qualities we have are solely because of our incredible good fortune to have come across Prabhupada’s books and the genuine, sincere representatives of the knowledge found in those books, who guide us in the right direction. Our gratitude would be best expressed in our sincere attempts to share this knowledge with others, with the understanding of where it comes from and investing our hearts in connecting to what Krsna and his pure devotee’s speak. Our Gratitude would also be properly expressed in our determination to follow the vows and promises we make to personalities like you, who represent Krsna.
It is my determination that I will stick to my initiation vows under all circumstances and take shelter of the holy name, Prabhupada’s books, service and Vaisnava association not only in times of difficulty but as a general practice. I beg that I may always be permitted by Lord Caitanya to carry out his preaching mission, and I beg your mercy that I may be blessed with the intelligence to see the right course of action in properly helping with that mission.
Your aspiring servant Daityari Hari dasa
I offer my humble obeisance’s to you, please give me the shelter of your lotus feet.
A subject that’s been coming up a lot in recent week’s of Bhagavatam class, and one in particular that Tarakanatha prabhu gave recently is that of developing the quality of gratitude. The diametrically opposed mentality of the devotee, and the non devotee in this regard is dramatic. Reflecting on my own life, it’s quiet embarrassing how deep rooted the sense of entitlement is. As a general principal, people these days are completely blind to the fact that they’re fully dependent on Krsna for absolutely everything they hold dear. It’s actually only when they lose that personal ability, material object or personal relationship with someone else that they blame God. They privately think to themselves “if there really is a God, why doesn’t he meet my every demand and stay out of my affairs thereafter, so I don’t have to acknowledge Him, and instead claim my own supremacy, while I exploit his creation to my hearts content. It’s this demoniac mentality that breeds animosity and hatred between us, we fail to establish relationships (aside from those based on mutual exploitation) and our lack of gratitude or consideration for Krsna, comes back on us, as we become isolated bewildered and confused by life, feeling hard done by and completely miserable, absorbed in our own artificial bubble of hopelessness and despair.
In complete contrast to this, as a personal example, you’ve surrendered yourself completely to Krsna, always finding innovative and fresh ways to please him. Out pure compassion and in the mood of Lord Nityananda, Prahlada, and Srila Prabupada, you fearlessly go everywhere and freely distribute love of God to everyone regardless of whether they deserve it or not. Being always absorbed in trying to please Krsna, you never take into account your own personal comfort or convieniences but instead sacrifice them for the welfare of others, which, although always apparent, was particularly demonstrated when you went behind the Iron Curtain to preach. The result of this mentality is that you appear always blissful in all circumstances, only feeling pained by the fallen and degraded condition of those drowning in the ocean of Kali Yuga.
I believe your legacy will be how you revolutionized city preaching in the Western world. In fact I would go as far to say that your efforts and innovations in this area are the blueprint by which the somewhat stagnating world of ISKCON city preaching can redeem itself and move back in the direction that Prabhupad would have wanted. Prabhupada wanted enthusiastic, young missionaries driving on Lord Caitanya’s movement and to this end your success in inspiring and developing these types of people has been exemplary.
Going back to the subject of gratitude, it’s quiet clear that we are completely dependent on the mercy of personalities like you if we are to have any chance of re-establishing our fractured relationship with Krsna. Whatever little we know of who we are and whatever tiny trace of good qualities we have are solely because of our incredible good fortune to have come across Prabhupada’s books and the genuine, sincere representatives of the knowledge found in those books, who guide us in the right direction. Our gratitude would be best expressed in our sincere attempts to share this knowledge with others, with the understanding of where it comes from and investing our hearts in connecting to what Krsna and his pure devotee’s speak. Our Gratitude would also be properly expressed in our determination to follow the vows and promises we make to personalities like you, who represent Krsna.
It is my determination that I will stick to my initiation vows under all circumstances and take shelter of the holy name, Prabhupada’s books, service and Vaisnava association not only in times of difficulty but as a general practice. I beg that I may always be permitted by Lord Caitanya to carry out his preaching mission, and I beg your mercy that I may be blessed with the intelligence to see the right course of action in properly helping with that mission.
Your aspiring servant Daityari Hari dasa
Daksh Kumar
Hare Krishna
Dear guru maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisance into your lotus feet.
Though I am too young to say anything about you but yes I wait for the day when you come & the vyasa puja day as I like to do something for you. I felt praise to something for you. Today is the most important day for our god brothers and sisters as it is vyasa puja of our guru maharaj. From my parents I get very inspired about you. You came very rarely so whenever you come I get excited so I don’t miss any chance to meet you. I like to come to pick you at airport and dance a lot with kirtan. It fills my heart with joy. Whenever you come to Buddhimanta prabhuji’s place, a lot of preparations going on there and lots of seva to do. I do enjoy it. Your vyasa puja day is a kind of festival for us. Many preparations like shopping, picking flowers, making bhogas etc. takes place. My grand ma gets disturbed sometime from us. She use to say that I always gave more time to devotional life or temple and not to my studies. I always say her that this is the only one opportunity to do something for you guru maharaj. The most I like about you is your childhood stories during lecture and the prasad you give us during the meet on the airport is always delicious. There is only one humble request to you that please come frequently to Noida. I love to do seva or engage in something to do for you and get Prasadam from you.
Thank you Guru Maharaj
Your little servant
Daksh
S/o Ekant Dham Das & Chintamani Dham DD
ISKCON Noida
Dear guru maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisance into your lotus feet.
Though I am too young to say anything about you but yes I wait for the day when you come & the vyasa puja day as I like to do something for you. I felt praise to something for you. Today is the most important day for our god brothers and sisters as it is vyasa puja of our guru maharaj. From my parents I get very inspired about you. You came very rarely so whenever you come I get excited so I don’t miss any chance to meet you. I like to come to pick you at airport and dance a lot with kirtan. It fills my heart with joy. Whenever you come to Buddhimanta prabhuji’s place, a lot of preparations going on there and lots of seva to do. I do enjoy it. Your vyasa puja day is a kind of festival for us. Many preparations like shopping, picking flowers, making bhogas etc. takes place. My grand ma gets disturbed sometime from us. She use to say that I always gave more time to devotional life or temple and not to my studies. I always say her that this is the only one opportunity to do something for you guru maharaj. The most I like about you is your childhood stories during lecture and the prasad you give us during the meet on the airport is always delicious. There is only one humble request to you that please come frequently to Noida. I love to do seva or engage in something to do for you and get Prasadam from you.
Thank you Guru Maharaj
Your little servant
Daksh
S/o Ekant Dham Das & Chintamani Dham DD
ISKCON Noida
Damodara Krsna dasa
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you!
“Dave!” Hearing my name I rose from my seat at the yajna.
Coming before you, I prostrated myself in full dandavats with your Holiness to my right.
“Nama om visnupadaya krsnapresthaya bhutale …,” I chanted your pranama-mantra.
Then I sat, kneeling at your feet, as you spoke some kind words, “There are too many Daves in this world.”
Then came that essential moment. The moment where a disciple takes his vows.
“What are the four regulative principles?” you questioned.
“No illicit sex, intoxication, meat eating, and gambling” I affirmed.
“And what to do every day?” you cued.
“Chant at least sixteen rounds of the Hare Krsna maha-mantra” I responded.
“Your new name is, Damodara Krsna dasa!” The crowd goes wild, “Haribol!”
Certainly a happy occasion and a cause for celebration, but also very grave (gambhira). “Accepting a guru is not a fashion.” Srila Prabhupada would often say.
Could it be that in the hype of accepting a guru and getting a spiritual name we forget the seriousness of this hari-nama-diksa? Accepting a guru as a fashion. What a frightful thought. How insensitive indeed.
Srila Prabhupada explains, “… One who accepts the post of spiritual master neutralizes the sinful reactions of the yajamāna, the one on whose behalf he performs yajña. Thus the results of the pious acts previously performed by the priest or spiritual master are diminished. Therefore priesthood is not accepted by learned brāhmaṇas….” (SB 6.7.35 Purport)
We, your disciples, are the yajamāna, for which you mercifully neutralize the sinful reactions. And this is dangerous business for you.
Srila Prabhupada explains how the guru, because of accepting a sinful disciple, has to see bad dreams. Please forgive me Gurudeva for the bad dreams I may have caused you.
When a disciple performs sinful activities, breaking their vows, they cause trouble for themselves and their spiritual master. You yourself have confirmed that a guru can suffer injury due to their disciples not properly following Krsna consciousness.
And then you also have to accept all the “bricks” thrown at you in the form of blasphemy and unwarranted criticism. In Mahaprabhu’s pastimes there was one Ramacandra Puri, but now his parampara has many followers who make blaspheming Vaisnavas—who are dedicated to spreading the glories of the holy name—their “family business.”
Why, then, would one accept this risky occupation?
sri-guru karuna-sindhu, adhama janara bandbu
“O spiritual master, ocean of mercy and friend of the fallen souls …”
The depths of your mercy are not understandable with material intelligence. What a deep sense of compassion you have. What selflessness you possess. “We live for the others,” you say. That is your pracar and acara.
You are Vainava par excellence.
You are certainly worshipable as the sevaka-bhagavan—the worshiper God.
Speech is the most important quality that defines a person. Before guru, Vaisnavas, the Deities, and the fire, the honest disciple promises to refrain from all sinful activity. But it’s Kali-yuga and “talk is cheap.” I’d like to assume that everyone (including myself) have taken their vows with all intentions of keeping them. However, it is painful to see some returning to the ranks of maya, sometimes seemingly without a fight—throwing away the diamond of Krsna-bhakti as if it were a cheap thing.
I often wonder how this makes you feel. You’ve risked so much, given so much—and they just walk out on you without a good bye, a thank you or an apology.
They say “actions speak louder than words.” So let my actions speak what words I fail to write. Let my actions be dedicated to your will. Certainly this is the path of perfection, and the disclosed secret of success.
"… After receiving an order from the spiritual master, one must strictly try to execute the order. That is the way of success." (Cc Antya-lila 6.312 Purport)
I offer you my obeisances, my body, mind and words.
I solute you, Oh mercy incarnation.
Standing at attention I ask, “What is your next instruction?”
Thank you,
Your servant,
Damodara Krsna dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you!
“Dave!” Hearing my name I rose from my seat at the yajna.
Coming before you, I prostrated myself in full dandavats with your Holiness to my right.
“Nama om visnupadaya krsnapresthaya bhutale …,” I chanted your pranama-mantra.
Then I sat, kneeling at your feet, as you spoke some kind words, “There are too many Daves in this world.”
Then came that essential moment. The moment where a disciple takes his vows.
“What are the four regulative principles?” you questioned.
“No illicit sex, intoxication, meat eating, and gambling” I affirmed.
“And what to do every day?” you cued.
“Chant at least sixteen rounds of the Hare Krsna maha-mantra” I responded.
“Your new name is, Damodara Krsna dasa!” The crowd goes wild, “Haribol!”
Certainly a happy occasion and a cause for celebration, but also very grave (gambhira). “Accepting a guru is not a fashion.” Srila Prabhupada would often say.
Could it be that in the hype of accepting a guru and getting a spiritual name we forget the seriousness of this hari-nama-diksa? Accepting a guru as a fashion. What a frightful thought. How insensitive indeed.
Srila Prabhupada explains, “… One who accepts the post of spiritual master neutralizes the sinful reactions of the yajamāna, the one on whose behalf he performs yajña. Thus the results of the pious acts previously performed by the priest or spiritual master are diminished. Therefore priesthood is not accepted by learned brāhmaṇas….” (SB 6.7.35 Purport)
We, your disciples, are the yajamāna, for which you mercifully neutralize the sinful reactions. And this is dangerous business for you.
Srila Prabhupada explains how the guru, because of accepting a sinful disciple, has to see bad dreams. Please forgive me Gurudeva for the bad dreams I may have caused you.
When a disciple performs sinful activities, breaking their vows, they cause trouble for themselves and their spiritual master. You yourself have confirmed that a guru can suffer injury due to their disciples not properly following Krsna consciousness.
And then you also have to accept all the “bricks” thrown at you in the form of blasphemy and unwarranted criticism. In Mahaprabhu’s pastimes there was one Ramacandra Puri, but now his parampara has many followers who make blaspheming Vaisnavas—who are dedicated to spreading the glories of the holy name—their “family business.”
Why, then, would one accept this risky occupation?
sri-guru karuna-sindhu, adhama janara bandbu
“O spiritual master, ocean of mercy and friend of the fallen souls …”
The depths of your mercy are not understandable with material intelligence. What a deep sense of compassion you have. What selflessness you possess. “We live for the others,” you say. That is your pracar and acara.
You are Vainava par excellence.
You are certainly worshipable as the sevaka-bhagavan—the worshiper God.
Speech is the most important quality that defines a person. Before guru, Vaisnavas, the Deities, and the fire, the honest disciple promises to refrain from all sinful activity. But it’s Kali-yuga and “talk is cheap.” I’d like to assume that everyone (including myself) have taken their vows with all intentions of keeping them. However, it is painful to see some returning to the ranks of maya, sometimes seemingly without a fight—throwing away the diamond of Krsna-bhakti as if it were a cheap thing.
I often wonder how this makes you feel. You’ve risked so much, given so much—and they just walk out on you without a good bye, a thank you or an apology.
They say “actions speak louder than words.” So let my actions speak what words I fail to write. Let my actions be dedicated to your will. Certainly this is the path of perfection, and the disclosed secret of success.
"… After receiving an order from the spiritual master, one must strictly try to execute the order. That is the way of success." (Cc Antya-lila 6.312 Purport)
I offer you my obeisances, my body, mind and words.
I solute you, Oh mercy incarnation.
Standing at attention I ask, “What is your next instruction?”
Thank you,
Your servant,
Damodara Krsna dasa
Dandakaranya das
Nama Om Visnu Padaya
Krsna-presthaya Bhutala
Srimate Devamrta Swami
Iti namine
I offer my respectful obeisances to Srimate Devamrta Swami who is very dear to Lord Krsna on this earth, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.
Pracare purva-daksyam ca
Bhaktacara-pravinata
Pararthatapi karunyam
Yasya sarve ca te namah
Obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
om ajnana-timirandhasya jnananjana-salakaya caksur unmilitam yena tasmai sri-gurave namah
Dear Gurumaharaja,
In the Nectar of Instruction in the purport to text 5 Srila Prabhupada writes:
“Out of many such Vaisnavas, one may be very seriously engaged in the service of the Lord and strictly following all the regulative principles, chanting the prescribed number of rounds on japa beads and always thinking of how to expand the Krsna consciousness movement. Such a Vaisnava should be accepted as an uttama-adhikari, a highly advanced devotee, and his association should always be sought.”
One of the few benedictions granted in Kali Yuga, by the grace of internet technology via video footage and audio recording, we can have the sanga of a 21st century Vaisnava spreading worldwide the rays of Lord Caitanya’s benediction moon, the yuga dharma Hari-nam Sankirtan.
Just as Sanjaya was able to relay to Dhritarastra the events unfolding at Kurukshetra through his mystic yogic power of remote viewing, similarly, by the grace of the yogic powers of the internet, we can always remotely be with you. Whether it’s leading a kirtan with thousands of ecstatic devotees flying off the walls in Ukraine; to presenting a dynamic, engaging and enlightening discourse that ‘out materialises’ the conditioned minds of hundreds of inquisitive students and professors at a Melbourne University program; to a thought provoking Srimad Bhagavatam class given in ISKCON centres worldwide, we can have the benediction of your uplifting and inspiring Vaisnava association, even if we can’t physically be there with you.
In the Caitanya Caritamrta Madhya Lila 19.151 Lord Caitanya states to Rupa Goswami:
brahmananda bhramite kona bhagyavan jiva guru-krsna-prasade paya bhakti-lata-bija
“In the course of traversing the universal creation of Brahma, some fortunate soul may receive the seed of the bhakti-lata, the creeper of devotional service. This is all by the grace of guru and Krsna.”
It’s certainly unprecedented and historic times as saintly Vaisnavas, like yourself, selflessly traverse the globe opening the doors to the Vaikuntha world for the souls who desire to enter that transcendental abode, by instilling in their hearts the liberating seeds of bhakti-yoga. What hope do the inmates of this illusory prison house have of getting out, if not for the grace of Vaisnava sanga!
It’s very faith building and amazing to hear the incredible stories about the bravery, challenges and austerities the sincere followers of Srila Prabhupada have been through to pioneer the establishment of Krsna consciousness around the world.
In lectures you sometimes bring up your personal experiences of spreading Krsna consciousness during the time of the Iron Curtain in the Eastern European countries. One amazing story I’ve heard is when you were giving a covert Krsna conscious house-program to a group of devotees in one of these oppressive eastern bloc countries. At that time it was illegal to have gatherings of more than a few people and there were severe consequences for those who broke this authoritarian rule, especially when it came to a meeting involving a thought liberating spiritual discourse.
The devotee who arranged for you to give the program in his house had failed to mention that his mother was the head of the local KGB policing organisation. Un-expectantly the devotees mother suddenly arrived at the house in the middle of the program. You describe how she was such a well-disciplined and highly trained KGB operative that when confronted with this scene in her own home, her initial response was to approach each individual in the room to memorise their faces. Upon facing you and your very non Eastern European features, you noticed her eyes became momentarily glazed over and she coolly moved onto the next person for facial recognition memorisation.
After she had been around the room and began beating up on her ‘deviant’ son you saw the opportunity to escape, made a run for the door and bolted. You explain that the most amazing part to this story is that the highly trained KGB mother had absolutely no memory of ever seeing you in her house, even after standing right in front of you and looking at you with her eyes!
You explain it was the Supersoul in her heart who had caused her material eyesight to become temporarily glazed over whilst standing right in front of you meaning that she wasn’t actually able to see you present in the room! Krsna had protected His devotee in such a wonderful way and confirms the verse in 15.15 of the Bhagavad Gita:
sarvasya caham hrdi sannivisto
mattah smrtir jnanam apohanam ca
“I am seated in everyone's heart, and from Me come remembrance, knowledge and forgetfulness.”
In your pranam mantra one of the many qualities we offer our respects to you for is your unique skill in preaching; ‘pracare purva-daksyam ca.’ You have had such diverse, challenging and transcendental experiences in your dedicated service to Srila Prabhupada’s missionary over the decades. Would you consider writing a book to share your experiences of preaching Krsna consciousness in the bygone days of the Eastern European Iron Curtain era?
A physical book means the stories, challenges, selflessness and bravery of a saintly and unique dedicated modern day preacher of Krsna Consciousness will be preserved for future generations of aspiring devotees. You’re life and experiences in Krsna Consciousness not only gives so much inspiration, realisation and encouragement, but also offers spiritual practitioners a chance to deepen their faith and hope that their spiritual practices will bear tangible fruits.
It would be a shame that with the gradual passing of time your first hand experiences of preaching Krsna consciousness wouldn’t be preserved in a book.
Your servant,
Dandakaranya das
Krsna-presthaya Bhutala
Srimate Devamrta Swami
Iti namine
I offer my respectful obeisances to Srimate Devamrta Swami who is very dear to Lord Krsna on this earth, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.
Pracare purva-daksyam ca
Bhaktacara-pravinata
Pararthatapi karunyam
Yasya sarve ca te namah
Obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
om ajnana-timirandhasya jnananjana-salakaya caksur unmilitam yena tasmai sri-gurave namah
Dear Gurumaharaja,
In the Nectar of Instruction in the purport to text 5 Srila Prabhupada writes:
“Out of many such Vaisnavas, one may be very seriously engaged in the service of the Lord and strictly following all the regulative principles, chanting the prescribed number of rounds on japa beads and always thinking of how to expand the Krsna consciousness movement. Such a Vaisnava should be accepted as an uttama-adhikari, a highly advanced devotee, and his association should always be sought.”
One of the few benedictions granted in Kali Yuga, by the grace of internet technology via video footage and audio recording, we can have the sanga of a 21st century Vaisnava spreading worldwide the rays of Lord Caitanya’s benediction moon, the yuga dharma Hari-nam Sankirtan.
Just as Sanjaya was able to relay to Dhritarastra the events unfolding at Kurukshetra through his mystic yogic power of remote viewing, similarly, by the grace of the yogic powers of the internet, we can always remotely be with you. Whether it’s leading a kirtan with thousands of ecstatic devotees flying off the walls in Ukraine; to presenting a dynamic, engaging and enlightening discourse that ‘out materialises’ the conditioned minds of hundreds of inquisitive students and professors at a Melbourne University program; to a thought provoking Srimad Bhagavatam class given in ISKCON centres worldwide, we can have the benediction of your uplifting and inspiring Vaisnava association, even if we can’t physically be there with you.
In the Caitanya Caritamrta Madhya Lila 19.151 Lord Caitanya states to Rupa Goswami:
brahmananda bhramite kona bhagyavan jiva guru-krsna-prasade paya bhakti-lata-bija
“In the course of traversing the universal creation of Brahma, some fortunate soul may receive the seed of the bhakti-lata, the creeper of devotional service. This is all by the grace of guru and Krsna.”
It’s certainly unprecedented and historic times as saintly Vaisnavas, like yourself, selflessly traverse the globe opening the doors to the Vaikuntha world for the souls who desire to enter that transcendental abode, by instilling in their hearts the liberating seeds of bhakti-yoga. What hope do the inmates of this illusory prison house have of getting out, if not for the grace of Vaisnava sanga!
It’s very faith building and amazing to hear the incredible stories about the bravery, challenges and austerities the sincere followers of Srila Prabhupada have been through to pioneer the establishment of Krsna consciousness around the world.
In lectures you sometimes bring up your personal experiences of spreading Krsna consciousness during the time of the Iron Curtain in the Eastern European countries. One amazing story I’ve heard is when you were giving a covert Krsna conscious house-program to a group of devotees in one of these oppressive eastern bloc countries. At that time it was illegal to have gatherings of more than a few people and there were severe consequences for those who broke this authoritarian rule, especially when it came to a meeting involving a thought liberating spiritual discourse.
The devotee who arranged for you to give the program in his house had failed to mention that his mother was the head of the local KGB policing organisation. Un-expectantly the devotees mother suddenly arrived at the house in the middle of the program. You describe how she was such a well-disciplined and highly trained KGB operative that when confronted with this scene in her own home, her initial response was to approach each individual in the room to memorise their faces. Upon facing you and your very non Eastern European features, you noticed her eyes became momentarily glazed over and she coolly moved onto the next person for facial recognition memorisation.
After she had been around the room and began beating up on her ‘deviant’ son you saw the opportunity to escape, made a run for the door and bolted. You explain that the most amazing part to this story is that the highly trained KGB mother had absolutely no memory of ever seeing you in her house, even after standing right in front of you and looking at you with her eyes!
You explain it was the Supersoul in her heart who had caused her material eyesight to become temporarily glazed over whilst standing right in front of you meaning that she wasn’t actually able to see you present in the room! Krsna had protected His devotee in such a wonderful way and confirms the verse in 15.15 of the Bhagavad Gita:
sarvasya caham hrdi sannivisto
mattah smrtir jnanam apohanam ca
“I am seated in everyone's heart, and from Me come remembrance, knowledge and forgetfulness.”
In your pranam mantra one of the many qualities we offer our respects to you for is your unique skill in preaching; ‘pracare purva-daksyam ca.’ You have had such diverse, challenging and transcendental experiences in your dedicated service to Srila Prabhupada’s missionary over the decades. Would you consider writing a book to share your experiences of preaching Krsna consciousness in the bygone days of the Eastern European Iron Curtain era?
A physical book means the stories, challenges, selflessness and bravery of a saintly and unique dedicated modern day preacher of Krsna Consciousness will be preserved for future generations of aspiring devotees. You’re life and experiences in Krsna Consciousness not only gives so much inspiration, realisation and encouragement, but also offers spiritual practitioners a chance to deepen their faith and hope that their spiritual practices will bear tangible fruits.
It would be a shame that with the gradual passing of time your first hand experiences of preaching Krsna consciousness wouldn’t be preserved in a book.
Your servant,
Dandakaranya das
Dasya-prema das
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to your Holiness! All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Gurudeva, I hope you will kindly accept this Vyaspuja offering, an attempt which is like a dwarf trying to capture the moon.
In the end of the sixth chapter of Bhagavad gita, Krishna says that of all ascetics, empiricists, and fruitive workers, the yogi is the best. But of all yogis, one who abides in Krishna and always thinks of Him is the highest of all. Also, the Bhagavad gita (7.3) says that even amongst the rare souls who have attained perfection (one out of many, many thousands) hardly one of them actually knows Krishna in truth. Srila Guru Maharaja, this is the position of your Holiness, whom I have the great fortune of being able to glorify today.
Srila Prabhupada said in a lecture that the spiritual master is one who has no desire for material enjoyment. As a disciple of yours once recounted to me, after he very enthusiastically told you of all the Maha sweets available, you sternly told him that you wanted to honor the Prasad and not enjoy it.
For me, seeing how you travel place to place, enduring the discomforts of standing in lines, waiting in traffic, dealing with time zone changes, and tolerating whatever prasadam and sleeping arrangments are made is an exhibition of your glory. I am convinced that you do not make a single movement if it would not give pleasure to Krishna.
I saw how you were so expert in having respectful comradery with senior Vaisnavas and on the other hand giving guidance and encouragment to disciples. I was amazed to see you're dealings with newer practitioners. It seemed as if you were willing to do anything it took to inspire their bhakti practices. It reminds me of the statement of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur that we must use hundreds of gallons of blood to bring a person out of the clutches of maya.
Guru Maharaj, This exhibition of mercy has also been very much present in my life. I can recall how, when another bhakta and I came to visit you for the first time you gave us to much of your time. We would come in the room and you would say "so, what do you want to talk about today?" Then you would answer all of our questions until they were fully exhausted. Also, I will never forget how you joined a new bhakta and I for Mangal-arati when it was just us two there. Also, when a senior devotee told you of some misconceptions I had regarding the Guru and initiation, you dedicated the next Srimad Bhagavatam class entirely to addressing these misconceptions.
But these were not just foot in the door techniques like the ones used by salesmen to get someone to commit to something. Your mercy has certainly continued since then.
You recently allowed me to travel with you for almost two months, tolerating my attempts to serve you. Then, at a darshan before parting ways, after I expressed feeling a lack of senior association with whom I could fully reveal my mind, you said, "well, I guess you'll have to come to me for this". Wow, Guru Maharaja, just see your kindness!
Amongst other intructions, you have instructed me to become a "shastra man"; To become expert in reading and distributing Srila Prabhupada’s books; To take care of my health; To make it so that in my travels around, devotees will think "these tskp devotees are very learned in shastra and brahminical in their dealings"; And to do everything I do for the pleasure of Krishna.
Guru Maharaja, Please forgive me for my discrepancies in carrying out these orders and I beg for your blessings to better execute them.
I pray to you that I will realize the mercy you have bestowed on me. I also pray to you that I will realize my dependence on you for any abilities, leading me to be in your constant association by my prayer and service to you.
Thank you for everything Gurudeva!
Your dependent servant,
Dasya-prema das
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to your Holiness! All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Gurudeva, I hope you will kindly accept this Vyaspuja offering, an attempt which is like a dwarf trying to capture the moon.
In the end of the sixth chapter of Bhagavad gita, Krishna says that of all ascetics, empiricists, and fruitive workers, the yogi is the best. But of all yogis, one who abides in Krishna and always thinks of Him is the highest of all. Also, the Bhagavad gita (7.3) says that even amongst the rare souls who have attained perfection (one out of many, many thousands) hardly one of them actually knows Krishna in truth. Srila Guru Maharaja, this is the position of your Holiness, whom I have the great fortune of being able to glorify today.
Srila Prabhupada said in a lecture that the spiritual master is one who has no desire for material enjoyment. As a disciple of yours once recounted to me, after he very enthusiastically told you of all the Maha sweets available, you sternly told him that you wanted to honor the Prasad and not enjoy it.
For me, seeing how you travel place to place, enduring the discomforts of standing in lines, waiting in traffic, dealing with time zone changes, and tolerating whatever prasadam and sleeping arrangments are made is an exhibition of your glory. I am convinced that you do not make a single movement if it would not give pleasure to Krishna.
I saw how you were so expert in having respectful comradery with senior Vaisnavas and on the other hand giving guidance and encouragment to disciples. I was amazed to see you're dealings with newer practitioners. It seemed as if you were willing to do anything it took to inspire their bhakti practices. It reminds me of the statement of Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur that we must use hundreds of gallons of blood to bring a person out of the clutches of maya.
Guru Maharaj, This exhibition of mercy has also been very much present in my life. I can recall how, when another bhakta and I came to visit you for the first time you gave us to much of your time. We would come in the room and you would say "so, what do you want to talk about today?" Then you would answer all of our questions until they were fully exhausted. Also, I will never forget how you joined a new bhakta and I for Mangal-arati when it was just us two there. Also, when a senior devotee told you of some misconceptions I had regarding the Guru and initiation, you dedicated the next Srimad Bhagavatam class entirely to addressing these misconceptions.
But these were not just foot in the door techniques like the ones used by salesmen to get someone to commit to something. Your mercy has certainly continued since then.
You recently allowed me to travel with you for almost two months, tolerating my attempts to serve you. Then, at a darshan before parting ways, after I expressed feeling a lack of senior association with whom I could fully reveal my mind, you said, "well, I guess you'll have to come to me for this". Wow, Guru Maharaja, just see your kindness!
Amongst other intructions, you have instructed me to become a "shastra man"; To become expert in reading and distributing Srila Prabhupada’s books; To take care of my health; To make it so that in my travels around, devotees will think "these tskp devotees are very learned in shastra and brahminical in their dealings"; And to do everything I do for the pleasure of Krishna.
Guru Maharaja, Please forgive me for my discrepancies in carrying out these orders and I beg for your blessings to better execute them.
I pray to you that I will realize the mercy you have bestowed on me. I also pray to you that I will realize my dependence on you for any abilities, leading me to be in your constant association by my prayer and service to you.
Thank you for everything Gurudeva!
Your dependent servant,
Dasya-prema das
David
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
I must confess that this years offering has been a challenge. I had planned on expanding on a previous offering (2014). After consultation with my Mentor, I decided to defer to 2018. I feel comfortable with this decision. Nevertheless I feel a sense of regret.
On a related note, I had thought about submitting an offering best described as amusing and quirky. Well that was the plan as for the reality .................
Here and now, I feel that a simple offering is the way forward. This I feel very strongly.
My reading progresses and, I continue to make steady progress. Glorious it is read about Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The Lords mercy and devotional excellence moves me to tears. Reading about Great Devotees overwhelms me. No sooner do I read about one, than another emerges from the ocean of nectar. The music and dancing. The feasts. Thinking and talking about it.
I continue to chant and, I am pleased to advise that this is an ingrained habit. Interesting it is, that the mind can be trained to chant with attention and discipline. As well as working full time. My chanting is very important to me. I feel the benefits in a way which feels tangible yet somewhat elusive.
My service in the form of cleaning continues. Bit by bit adds up to a lot. Progress is eternal. Service feels good!
I am very grateful for the lessons which you have delivered over the years. Very grateful indeed!
I continue to be impressed by your service to: the devotees, people in general, and Lord Krishna. Not to mention your knowledge which manifests in many ways.
Please take this as sincere attempt to express my gratitude and, a reflection of my thoughts & feelings.
David :)
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
I must confess that this years offering has been a challenge. I had planned on expanding on a previous offering (2014). After consultation with my Mentor, I decided to defer to 2018. I feel comfortable with this decision. Nevertheless I feel a sense of regret.
On a related note, I had thought about submitting an offering best described as amusing and quirky. Well that was the plan as for the reality .................
Here and now, I feel that a simple offering is the way forward. This I feel very strongly.
My reading progresses and, I continue to make steady progress. Glorious it is read about Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The Lords mercy and devotional excellence moves me to tears. Reading about Great Devotees overwhelms me. No sooner do I read about one, than another emerges from the ocean of nectar. The music and dancing. The feasts. Thinking and talking about it.
I continue to chant and, I am pleased to advise that this is an ingrained habit. Interesting it is, that the mind can be trained to chant with attention and discipline. As well as working full time. My chanting is very important to me. I feel the benefits in a way which feels tangible yet somewhat elusive.
My service in the form of cleaning continues. Bit by bit adds up to a lot. Progress is eternal. Service feels good!
I am very grateful for the lessons which you have delivered over the years. Very grateful indeed!
I continue to be impressed by your service to: the devotees, people in general, and Lord Krishna. Not to mention your knowledge which manifests in many ways.
Please take this as sincere attempt to express my gratitude and, a reflection of my thoughts & feelings.
David :)
David Tüchler
Hare Krsna Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to your divine appearance! All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Coming to Krsna consciousness my faith was weak, as I was puffed up, thinking myself intelligent (studying science...). Thus seeing that even just from a material point of view such a highly intelligent person like you gave up your studies at the top university to take up menial service in KC gives me great conviction and strikes me how humble, bold and extremely intelligent you were even back then. By tirelessly endeavouring to fulfil the desire of Srila Prabhupada with great determination you showed that consequently Krsna gives the empowerment for that purpose which you still expand on.
Last year at a time when I was still floating out in maya, but increasingly associating with devotees, they told me to attend a Youth Seminar (in Sydney) given by a very advanced Swami. Full with selfish ambitions for my personal development I went there, without a clue of its significance. When I asked you a question, you for the first time visibly cast your mercy on me by looking me in the eyes and giving me an answer that lifted me out of my preconceptions for my life plans which paved the way so that I soon would have started to endeavour to dedicate my life fully to KC.
The next day when I heard the topic of your Sunday feast lecture I was still ignorantly thinking: “Book distribution? I don’t see that it would ever in the foreseeable future be important for me...” But you made me realize what this yajna for Kali-yuga actually means, gave me a glimpse how deep the ocean of mercy and bliss of Lord Caitanya is and that by Srila Prabhupada’s mercy and desire the best way of launching one wave after another is by distributing this transcendental literature.
Whereas in my mundane life I ultimately always felt cheated when putting trust into other people, you gave me the opportunity to begin to revive my true, eternal relationship with our Supreme Friend and Father, Krsna, who is showing His godly qualities of compassion, humility, self-control etc. in His devotees visible even for neophytes like me.
At times when my foolish attachment to anarthas makes my devotional life seem too difficult, listening to your lectures makes me come down to earth to see what foolish of a conditioned soul I still am and thus makes me laugh at myself and move on with new enthusiasm and faith.
As I kept listening to your lectures my conviction grew ever stronger that you truly represent Srila Prabhupada, his uncompromising mood, 100 %, thus all the previous acaryas and the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna.
When many of us devotees sometimes get confused of how to understand and carry out SP’s instructions, you, very expertly dispel any misconceptions and guide us how to discern Krsna’s desire from maya.
Thank you so much for giving me a true life and that you show me that right now there is actually someone living all the qualities that I wish to one day develop a fraction of when in my insignificant humble attempts I may catch a drop of your mercy.
Thus I pray at your lotus feet for your blessings to develop appreciation for devotee association, devotional service, a drop of your compassion for the fallen conditioned souls and that your divine words and those of my local authorities who represent you may penetrate through the stubborn layer of false ego deeply into my heart.
Your insignificant, aspiring servant,
David Tüchler
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to your divine appearance! All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Coming to Krsna consciousness my faith was weak, as I was puffed up, thinking myself intelligent (studying science...). Thus seeing that even just from a material point of view such a highly intelligent person like you gave up your studies at the top university to take up menial service in KC gives me great conviction and strikes me how humble, bold and extremely intelligent you were even back then. By tirelessly endeavouring to fulfil the desire of Srila Prabhupada with great determination you showed that consequently Krsna gives the empowerment for that purpose which you still expand on.
Last year at a time when I was still floating out in maya, but increasingly associating with devotees, they told me to attend a Youth Seminar (in Sydney) given by a very advanced Swami. Full with selfish ambitions for my personal development I went there, without a clue of its significance. When I asked you a question, you for the first time visibly cast your mercy on me by looking me in the eyes and giving me an answer that lifted me out of my preconceptions for my life plans which paved the way so that I soon would have started to endeavour to dedicate my life fully to KC.
The next day when I heard the topic of your Sunday feast lecture I was still ignorantly thinking: “Book distribution? I don’t see that it would ever in the foreseeable future be important for me...” But you made me realize what this yajna for Kali-yuga actually means, gave me a glimpse how deep the ocean of mercy and bliss of Lord Caitanya is and that by Srila Prabhupada’s mercy and desire the best way of launching one wave after another is by distributing this transcendental literature.
Whereas in my mundane life I ultimately always felt cheated when putting trust into other people, you gave me the opportunity to begin to revive my true, eternal relationship with our Supreme Friend and Father, Krsna, who is showing His godly qualities of compassion, humility, self-control etc. in His devotees visible even for neophytes like me.
At times when my foolish attachment to anarthas makes my devotional life seem too difficult, listening to your lectures makes me come down to earth to see what foolish of a conditioned soul I still am and thus makes me laugh at myself and move on with new enthusiasm and faith.
As I kept listening to your lectures my conviction grew ever stronger that you truly represent Srila Prabhupada, his uncompromising mood, 100 %, thus all the previous acaryas and the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna.
When many of us devotees sometimes get confused of how to understand and carry out SP’s instructions, you, very expertly dispel any misconceptions and guide us how to discern Krsna’s desire from maya.
Thank you so much for giving me a true life and that you show me that right now there is actually someone living all the qualities that I wish to one day develop a fraction of when in my insignificant humble attempts I may catch a drop of your mercy.
Thus I pray at your lotus feet for your blessings to develop appreciation for devotee association, devotional service, a drop of your compassion for the fallen conditioned souls and that your divine words and those of my local authorities who represent you may penetrate through the stubborn layer of false ego deeply into my heart.
Your insignificant, aspiring servant,
David Tüchler
Dayal Nitai Dasa
Nama om visnu padaya
Krishna presthaya bhutale
Srimate devamrita swamin
iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca
bhaktacara pravinata
Pararthathapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Srila Gurudeva,
please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet, all glories to Srila Prabhupada, all glories to you on this most auspicious occasion of your appearance.
Lately I’ve been considering the guidance you give through your perfect example and divine instruction and have come to understand that actually you are the greatest well wisher of all the fallen living entities who are suffering in this material world. Following in the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada and the previous acaryas, you are delivering the message of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu and reclaiming all those lost souls for Krishna. What else could be more merciful than this?
Here I would like to quote Srila Prabhupada’s words from Srimad Bhagavatam:
“Persons who are not in Krishna consciousness are living a very precarious life, as described in this verse, but all these circumstantial conditions are due to forgetfulness of Krishna. The Krishna consciousness movement is meant to give relief to all these bewildered and distressed persons; therefore it is the greatest relief work for all human society, and the workers thereof are the greatest well-wishers, for they follow in the footsteps of Lord Caitanya, who is the greatest friend to all living entities.” (SB 4.7.28 Purport)
Not only does this make you the greatest well wisher but it makes you very dear to the Lord, as described by Krishna Himself in Bhagavad gita:
na ca tasman manusyesu
kascin me priya-krttamah
bhavita na ca me tasmad
anyah priyataro bhuvi
There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he, nor will there ever be one more dear. (Bg 18.69)
O Gurudeva! Please bless me so that I may follow in your footsteps and become gopi-bhartuh pada-kamalayor dasa-dasanudasah, the eternal servant of the servant of the servant of the Lord, the master of the gopis, Krishna. (Cc. Madhya 13.80)
Your insignificant servant,
Dayal Nitai Dasa.
Krishna presthaya bhutale
Srimate devamrita swamin
iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca
bhaktacara pravinata
Pararthathapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Srila Gurudeva,
please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet, all glories to Srila Prabhupada, all glories to you on this most auspicious occasion of your appearance.
Lately I’ve been considering the guidance you give through your perfect example and divine instruction and have come to understand that actually you are the greatest well wisher of all the fallen living entities who are suffering in this material world. Following in the footsteps of Srila Prabhupada and the previous acaryas, you are delivering the message of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu and reclaiming all those lost souls for Krishna. What else could be more merciful than this?
Here I would like to quote Srila Prabhupada’s words from Srimad Bhagavatam:
“Persons who are not in Krishna consciousness are living a very precarious life, as described in this verse, but all these circumstantial conditions are due to forgetfulness of Krishna. The Krishna consciousness movement is meant to give relief to all these bewildered and distressed persons; therefore it is the greatest relief work for all human society, and the workers thereof are the greatest well-wishers, for they follow in the footsteps of Lord Caitanya, who is the greatest friend to all living entities.” (SB 4.7.28 Purport)
Not only does this make you the greatest well wisher but it makes you very dear to the Lord, as described by Krishna Himself in Bhagavad gita:
na ca tasman manusyesu
kascin me priya-krttamah
bhavita na ca me tasmad
anyah priyataro bhuvi
There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he, nor will there ever be one more dear. (Bg 18.69)
O Gurudeva! Please bless me so that I may follow in your footsteps and become gopi-bhartuh pada-kamalayor dasa-dasanudasah, the eternal servant of the servant of the servant of the Lord, the master of the gopis, Krishna. (Cc. Madhya 13.80)
Your insignificant servant,
Dayal Nitai Dasa.
Dayalu Gaura Dasa
Dear Gurudeva
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
If I may, though unqualified, say some words of glorification to honour you on this day.
I beg you please make heart fit to serve in the mission of Lord Caitanya that I may be as dedicated as you are in preaching Krsna Consciousness.
When we last met I expressed that since you gave me Gayatri Initiation I've noticed how far I'm off the mark.
You answered by saying: "we all feel like theres more Krsna to be had".
In SB1.3.40 it describes this point of how to get more Krsna:
This Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the literary incarnation of God, and it is compiled by Śrīla Vyāsadeva, the incarnation of God. It is meant for the ultimate good of all people, and it is all-successful, all-blissful and all-perfect.
And in the purport Srila Prabhupada writes:
Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu declared that Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the spotless sound representation of all Vedic knowledge and history. There are selected histories of great devotees who are in direct contact with the Personality of Godhead. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the literary incarnation of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa and is therefore nondifferent from Him. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam should be worshiped as respectfully as we worship the Lord. Thereby we can derive the ultimate blessings of the Lord through its careful and patient study. As God is all light, all bliss and all perfection, so also is Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. We can have all the transcendental light of the Supreme Brahman, Śrī Kṛṣṇa, from the recitation of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, provided it is received through the medium of the transparent spiritual master. Lord Caitanya’s private secretary Śrīla Svarūpa Dāmodara Gosvāmī advised all intending visitors who came to see the Lord at Purī to make a study of the Bhāgavatam from the person Bhāgavatam. Person Bhāgavatam is the self-realized bona fide spiritual master, and through him only can one understand the lessons of Bhāgavatam in order to receive the desired result. One can derive from the study of the Bhāgavatam all benefits that are possible to be derived from the personal presence of the Lord. It carries with it all the transcendental blessings of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa that we can expect from His personal contact.
Dear Gurudeva you are so expert in making this personal contact with Krsna in his form as Srimad Bhagavatam. Because for years you were dedicated to the profuse distribution,editing,teaching of this Great Work as glorified by Srila
Sanatana Goswami:
O Srimad-Bhagavatam, O nectar churned form the ocean of all the Vedic scriptures, O most prominent transcendental fruit of all the Vedas, O You who are enriched with the jewels of all spiritual philosophical conclusions, O you who grant spiritual vision to all the people of the world, O life-breath of the Vaisnava devotees, O Lord, You are the sun which has arisen to dispel the darkness of the Kali-yuga. You are actually Lord Krsna, who has returned among us.
And because of your constant effort and dedication to Srila Prabhupadas as a sincere and gentle disciple in preaching the mission you are able to understand the Srimad Bhagavatam just as the Sages of Naimisaranya praised Suta Goswami for doing the same in Sb1.1.8:
And because you are submissive, your spiritual masters have endowed you with all the favors bestowed upon a gentle disciple. Therefore you can tell us all that you have scientifically learned from them.
Your preaching and your writing of books are so well composed that they immediately endear one further to the reading of Srila Prabhupadas books more and more. This is evidence of your ever increasing dedication to Srila Prabhupadas mission and your realisations of what it means to spread it.
this much needed sincerity is described by Srila Prabhupada in SB.2.3.20:
Everything is full of sense and logic, and the exchange of views between the master and disciple is possible only when the reception is submissive and real. In the Caitanya-caritāmṛta it is said that one should receive the teaching of Lord Caitanya with intellect and full senses so that one can logically understand the great mission.
Such a sense of intellect and logic is also further glorified in the person of Bhismadeva showing that you are following in the footsteps of the great authorities of devotional service this is nicely described in SB1.9.9:
Bhīṣmadeva, who was the best amongst the eight Vasus, received and welcomed all the great and powerful ṛṣis who were assembled there, for he knew perfectly all the religious principles according to time and place.
Srila Prabhupada very nicely elaborates on this point in the purport to this verse:
There are different climates and situations in different parts of the world, and if one has to discharge his duties to preach the message of the Lord, he must be expert in adjusting things in terms of the time and place.
your intellect and logic so deeply connected to Srila Prabhupadas books affording you the ability to go anywhere and everywhere to provide to suffering humanity with the medicinal cure of of bhakti Yoga.
this benediction was also given by the great preacher devotee Prahlada Maharaja in SB.5.18.9:
May there be good fortune throughout the universe, and may all envious persons be pacified. May all living entities become calm by practicing bhakti-yoga, for by accepting devotional service they will think of each other’s welfare. Therefore let us all engage in the service of the supreme transcendence, Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa, and always remain absorbed in thought of Him.
Purport:
The following verse describes a Vaiṣṇava:
vāñchā-kalpa-tarubhyaś ca
kṛpā-sindhubhya eva ca
patitānāṁ pāvanebhyo
vaiṣṇavebhyo namo namaḥ
Just like a desire tree, a Vaiṣṇava can fulfill all the desires of anyone who takes shelter of his lotus feet. Prahlāda Mahārāja is a typical Vaiṣṇava. He prays not for himself but for all living entities — the gentle, the envious and the mischievous. He always thought of the welfare of mischievous persons like his father, Hiraṇyakaśipu. Prahlāda Mahārāja did not ask for anything for himself; rather, he prayed for the Lord to excuse his demoniac father. This is the attitude of a Vaiṣṇava, who always thinks of the welfare of the entire universe.
You surely set the same example.
By your travelling the world to preach, seeing only opportunities to assist others in their going back home back to Godhead this attitude and empowerment is the mercy of the Panca Tattva on their dear devotee.
You dance ecstatically in distributing Love of Krsna just the associates of Lord Caitanya and Caitanya Mahaprabhu himself are doing:
The characteristics of Kṛṣṇa are understood to be a storehouse of transcendental love. Although that storehouse of love certainly came with Kṛṣṇa when He was present, it was sealed. But when Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu came with His associates of the Pañca-tattva, they broke the seal and plundered the storehouse to taste transcendental love of Kṛṣṇa. The more they tasted it, the more their thirst for it grew.
Śrī Pañca-tattva themselves danced again and again and thus made it easier to drink nectarean love of Godhead. They danced, cried, laughed and chanted like madmen, and in this way they distributed love of Godhead.
In distributing love of Godhead, Caitanya Mahāprabhu and His associates did not consider who was a fit candidate and who was not, nor where such distribution should or should not take place. They made no conditions. Wherever they got the opportunity, the members of the Pañca-tattva distributed love of Godhead.
Although the members of the Pañca-tattva plundered the storehouse of love of Godhead and ate and distributed its contents, there was no scarcity, for this wonderful storehouse is so complete that as the love is distributed, the supply increases hundreds of times.
The flood of love of Godhead swelled in all directions, and thus young men, old men, women and children were all immersed in that inundation.
The Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement will inundate the entire world and drown everyone, whether one be a gentleman, a rogue or even lame, invalid or blind.
When the five members of the Pañca-tattva saw the entire world drowned in love of Godhead and the seed of material enjoyment in the living entities completely destroyed, they all became exceedingly happy.
The more the five members of the Pañca-tattva cause the rains of love of Godhead to fall, the more the inundation increases and spreads all over the world.
The impersonalists, fruitive workers, false logicians, blasphemers, nondevotees and lowest among the student community are very expert in avoiding the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement, and therefore the inundation of Kṛṣṇa consciousness cannot touch them.
Seeing that the Māyāvādīs and others were fleeing, Lord Caitanya thought, “I wanted everyone to be immersed in this inundation of love of Godhead, but some of them have escaped. Therefore I shall devise a trick to drown them also.”
Placing my hands in the air i beg that you will allow me to in some small way assist you in this inundation of Love of Krsna.
Your aspiring servant Dayalu Gaura Dasa.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
If I may, though unqualified, say some words of glorification to honour you on this day.
I beg you please make heart fit to serve in the mission of Lord Caitanya that I may be as dedicated as you are in preaching Krsna Consciousness.
When we last met I expressed that since you gave me Gayatri Initiation I've noticed how far I'm off the mark.
You answered by saying: "we all feel like theres more Krsna to be had".
In SB1.3.40 it describes this point of how to get more Krsna:
This Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the literary incarnation of God, and it is compiled by Śrīla Vyāsadeva, the incarnation of God. It is meant for the ultimate good of all people, and it is all-successful, all-blissful and all-perfect.
And in the purport Srila Prabhupada writes:
Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu declared that Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the spotless sound representation of all Vedic knowledge and history. There are selected histories of great devotees who are in direct contact with the Personality of Godhead. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the literary incarnation of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa and is therefore nondifferent from Him. Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam should be worshiped as respectfully as we worship the Lord. Thereby we can derive the ultimate blessings of the Lord through its careful and patient study. As God is all light, all bliss and all perfection, so also is Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. We can have all the transcendental light of the Supreme Brahman, Śrī Kṛṣṇa, from the recitation of Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, provided it is received through the medium of the transparent spiritual master. Lord Caitanya’s private secretary Śrīla Svarūpa Dāmodara Gosvāmī advised all intending visitors who came to see the Lord at Purī to make a study of the Bhāgavatam from the person Bhāgavatam. Person Bhāgavatam is the self-realized bona fide spiritual master, and through him only can one understand the lessons of Bhāgavatam in order to receive the desired result. One can derive from the study of the Bhāgavatam all benefits that are possible to be derived from the personal presence of the Lord. It carries with it all the transcendental blessings of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa that we can expect from His personal contact.
Dear Gurudeva you are so expert in making this personal contact with Krsna in his form as Srimad Bhagavatam. Because for years you were dedicated to the profuse distribution,editing,teaching of this Great Work as glorified by Srila
Sanatana Goswami:
O Srimad-Bhagavatam, O nectar churned form the ocean of all the Vedic scriptures, O most prominent transcendental fruit of all the Vedas, O You who are enriched with the jewels of all spiritual philosophical conclusions, O you who grant spiritual vision to all the people of the world, O life-breath of the Vaisnava devotees, O Lord, You are the sun which has arisen to dispel the darkness of the Kali-yuga. You are actually Lord Krsna, who has returned among us.
And because of your constant effort and dedication to Srila Prabhupadas as a sincere and gentle disciple in preaching the mission you are able to understand the Srimad Bhagavatam just as the Sages of Naimisaranya praised Suta Goswami for doing the same in Sb1.1.8:
And because you are submissive, your spiritual masters have endowed you with all the favors bestowed upon a gentle disciple. Therefore you can tell us all that you have scientifically learned from them.
Your preaching and your writing of books are so well composed that they immediately endear one further to the reading of Srila Prabhupadas books more and more. This is evidence of your ever increasing dedication to Srila Prabhupadas mission and your realisations of what it means to spread it.
this much needed sincerity is described by Srila Prabhupada in SB.2.3.20:
Everything is full of sense and logic, and the exchange of views between the master and disciple is possible only when the reception is submissive and real. In the Caitanya-caritāmṛta it is said that one should receive the teaching of Lord Caitanya with intellect and full senses so that one can logically understand the great mission.
Such a sense of intellect and logic is also further glorified in the person of Bhismadeva showing that you are following in the footsteps of the great authorities of devotional service this is nicely described in SB1.9.9:
Bhīṣmadeva, who was the best amongst the eight Vasus, received and welcomed all the great and powerful ṛṣis who were assembled there, for he knew perfectly all the religious principles according to time and place.
Srila Prabhupada very nicely elaborates on this point in the purport to this verse:
There are different climates and situations in different parts of the world, and if one has to discharge his duties to preach the message of the Lord, he must be expert in adjusting things in terms of the time and place.
your intellect and logic so deeply connected to Srila Prabhupadas books affording you the ability to go anywhere and everywhere to provide to suffering humanity with the medicinal cure of of bhakti Yoga.
this benediction was also given by the great preacher devotee Prahlada Maharaja in SB.5.18.9:
May there be good fortune throughout the universe, and may all envious persons be pacified. May all living entities become calm by practicing bhakti-yoga, for by accepting devotional service they will think of each other’s welfare. Therefore let us all engage in the service of the supreme transcendence, Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa, and always remain absorbed in thought of Him.
Purport:
The following verse describes a Vaiṣṇava:
vāñchā-kalpa-tarubhyaś ca
kṛpā-sindhubhya eva ca
patitānāṁ pāvanebhyo
vaiṣṇavebhyo namo namaḥ
Just like a desire tree, a Vaiṣṇava can fulfill all the desires of anyone who takes shelter of his lotus feet. Prahlāda Mahārāja is a typical Vaiṣṇava. He prays not for himself but for all living entities — the gentle, the envious and the mischievous. He always thought of the welfare of mischievous persons like his father, Hiraṇyakaśipu. Prahlāda Mahārāja did not ask for anything for himself; rather, he prayed for the Lord to excuse his demoniac father. This is the attitude of a Vaiṣṇava, who always thinks of the welfare of the entire universe.
You surely set the same example.
By your travelling the world to preach, seeing only opportunities to assist others in their going back home back to Godhead this attitude and empowerment is the mercy of the Panca Tattva on their dear devotee.
You dance ecstatically in distributing Love of Krsna just the associates of Lord Caitanya and Caitanya Mahaprabhu himself are doing:
The characteristics of Kṛṣṇa are understood to be a storehouse of transcendental love. Although that storehouse of love certainly came with Kṛṣṇa when He was present, it was sealed. But when Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu came with His associates of the Pañca-tattva, they broke the seal and plundered the storehouse to taste transcendental love of Kṛṣṇa. The more they tasted it, the more their thirst for it grew.
Śrī Pañca-tattva themselves danced again and again and thus made it easier to drink nectarean love of Godhead. They danced, cried, laughed and chanted like madmen, and in this way they distributed love of Godhead.
In distributing love of Godhead, Caitanya Mahāprabhu and His associates did not consider who was a fit candidate and who was not, nor where such distribution should or should not take place. They made no conditions. Wherever they got the opportunity, the members of the Pañca-tattva distributed love of Godhead.
Although the members of the Pañca-tattva plundered the storehouse of love of Godhead and ate and distributed its contents, there was no scarcity, for this wonderful storehouse is so complete that as the love is distributed, the supply increases hundreds of times.
The flood of love of Godhead swelled in all directions, and thus young men, old men, women and children were all immersed in that inundation.
The Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement will inundate the entire world and drown everyone, whether one be a gentleman, a rogue or even lame, invalid or blind.
When the five members of the Pañca-tattva saw the entire world drowned in love of Godhead and the seed of material enjoyment in the living entities completely destroyed, they all became exceedingly happy.
The more the five members of the Pañca-tattva cause the rains of love of Godhead to fall, the more the inundation increases and spreads all over the world.
The impersonalists, fruitive workers, false logicians, blasphemers, nondevotees and lowest among the student community are very expert in avoiding the Kṛṣṇa consciousness movement, and therefore the inundation of Kṛṣṇa consciousness cannot touch them.
Seeing that the Māyāvādīs and others were fleeing, Lord Caitanya thought, “I wanted everyone to be immersed in this inundation of love of Godhead, but some of them have escaped. Therefore I shall devise a trick to drown them also.”
Placing my hands in the air i beg that you will allow me to in some small way assist you in this inundation of Love of Krsna.
Your aspiring servant Dayalu Gaura Dasa.
Dayamaya dd
Hare Krsna Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All Glories to you on this auspicious day of your Appearance.
Dear Gurudeva, I write this offering begging for your forgiveness and causeless mercy, for tolerating my acts of recklessness.
The past few weeks have been excruciatingly traumatic for my body and mind, all because of my own negligence. Nevertheless, I am still alive, ashamed and guilty.
The only reason I am alive today is because I am under your shelter and in the loving care of your disciples. The Bhakti Lounge community of devotees rescued me from the mess I was in. They are so kind and gentle to me. I am grateful to them. Thank you Gurudeva, for placing me in their care.
I am sorry I have caused you so much unwanted pain and anxiety. Despite my wrong actions, you didn’t chastise me even once! This makes me even more indebted to you.
Please forgive this stubborn, rock-headed daughter of yours. Although undeserving , you are allowing me to serve you. I cannot repay you for all that you have done for me.
Weeping sincerely at your lotus feet, your servant
Dayamaya dd.
Dayavira das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Gazing over the replanted areas around Krsna kunja I was noticing how some native species had performed very well, while others had been stunted or even dwindled and died.The conditions there are harsh and exposed to natures full fury in the form of relentless battering gales and extremes of sodden to ground cracking drought.Yes the material atmosphere forces so much disturbance to the living entities. My wife reminded me what you Guru Maharaja had told her in the past, "there is no limit of the amount of suffering that Krsna`s inferior energy can bring to bear on the unprotected jiva ".Ah this was the position of those beings who had not taken the natural shelter promised by the parampara in the form of the spiritual master.Those trees which had grown in the lee of those few robust specimens that could tolerate the extreme conditions had flourished.This is Krsna`s sublime brilliance, incarnating as the ever merciful spiritual guru.
In complete contrast to this immense good fortune, I recently attended my elderly uncles funeral. After the traditional speeches of glorification of his brief time here, up came a slide show depicting different events during his life.The moment was accompanied with the song " I did it my way " sang by the late Frank Sanatra. Yes, this was a graphic reminder to me of the great misfortune that has infected human mentality. Hope only begins with the jiva`s acceptance of spiritual dependence.This is the highest gift- a open door way to our organic blissful place as Das anu das in Krsna`s eternal devotional seva.
As the door keeper to the store house of love of God, through Lord Caitanya you continually sacrifice for us so we to can taste true happiness in this life and beyond. I can only beg you to always be our spiritual well wishing guide despite all our faults. I know no other way, no other way, no other way but the shelter of your lotus feet. I humbly thank you on this your auspicious appearance day.
Your servant,
Dayavira das
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Gazing over the replanted areas around Krsna kunja I was noticing how some native species had performed very well, while others had been stunted or even dwindled and died.The conditions there are harsh and exposed to natures full fury in the form of relentless battering gales and extremes of sodden to ground cracking drought.Yes the material atmosphere forces so much disturbance to the living entities. My wife reminded me what you Guru Maharaja had told her in the past, "there is no limit of the amount of suffering that Krsna`s inferior energy can bring to bear on the unprotected jiva ".Ah this was the position of those beings who had not taken the natural shelter promised by the parampara in the form of the spiritual master.Those trees which had grown in the lee of those few robust specimens that could tolerate the extreme conditions had flourished.This is Krsna`s sublime brilliance, incarnating as the ever merciful spiritual guru.
In complete contrast to this immense good fortune, I recently attended my elderly uncles funeral. After the traditional speeches of glorification of his brief time here, up came a slide show depicting different events during his life.The moment was accompanied with the song " I did it my way " sang by the late Frank Sanatra. Yes, this was a graphic reminder to me of the great misfortune that has infected human mentality. Hope only begins with the jiva`s acceptance of spiritual dependence.This is the highest gift- a open door way to our organic blissful place as Das anu das in Krsna`s eternal devotional seva.
As the door keeper to the store house of love of God, through Lord Caitanya you continually sacrifice for us so we to can taste true happiness in this life and beyond. I can only beg you to always be our spiritual well wishing guide despite all our faults. I know no other way, no other way, no other way but the shelter of your lotus feet. I humbly thank you on this your auspicious appearance day.
Your servant,
Dayavira das
Dhira Siromani Dasa
nama om vishnu padaya krsna presthaya bhutale
srimate devamrita swami iti namine.
pracare purva daksyam ca
bhaktacara pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarva ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to your lotus feet!
All glories to your auspicious appearance day!
My entire lifetime has been characterized as a wastage in the persuit of distractions and in the frivolities of life while neglecting the real purpose of life. What has been more tragic is despite your strenous effort to guide me and although being amidst wonderful devotees i am still wandering through the maze of the thick dense forest of ignorance, allowing my so called wonderful friend, my mind, to lord his own whims.
Such has been my misfortune and on this auspicious day of yours, i beg for your mercy. Your mercy is already there through your instructions but as the saying goes you can bring a horse to the lake but cannot make it drink if it does not want to.
Shower your mercy in such a way that i become receptive to your instructions and guidance and i start shaping my life seriously.
It is impossible to describe your wonderful qualities with the limited capacity of intelligence i have. I find myself short of words. However since it is the duty of a disciple to glorify his Spiritual master on his vyasa puja day, i will try to assemble a few words for your pleasure. Please forgive my juvenile attempt.
Prabhupadanuga
If i had to summarize you in one word thats what i could come up with. Over the years, even a fool like me could notice how each action, word and quality of yours remind us of Srila Prabhupada. What an inspiration it is, to see the standard with which you follow in your spiritual master's footsteps. You certainly teach by example and overcoming health, distance, comfort and other inconveniences you strive so much to push forward the mission of Srila Prabhupada.
I still remember very recently you were correcting me about something. I was taken aback and noticed how humble you were. Normally a spiritual master rightfully chastises his disciple. It struck me when you began your words "Srila Prabhupada wanted his disciples..."
Then i thought to myself, how you carry Srila prabhupada with you and despite you were correcting me you placed it in such a way that i did not feel chastised. In fact you corrected me straightaway but at the same time i felt you poured so much love by giving me those corrections.
And it was not the first time. I remember my previous encounters when i also asked you about how spiritual name is chosen and even then you mentioned this is how and what Srila Prabhupada did.
Your magnanimous quality blended with tact, sharp intelligence and compassion together with a rare combination of humour, you have been transforming the lives of so many people. I can still remember how you roared in front of a record crowd attendance at melbourne uni programme where due to your purity, mercy and transcendence, people from apparent no background, no knowledge were participating in kirtan. They were listening to you with rapt attention. Some taking notes while others busy clicking pictures to be impatient to share on social media about how proud and lucky they were to be there. After we interviewed many guests there was not a single response of any sort of negativity nor boredom. In fact most of them came back somehow or other to mantra lounge or other various programmes.
I was recently serving you at our farm retreat and i was thinking about how over the years my service has been changing and by your mercy i have been able to serve you personally despite so many flaws and mistakes.
I then realised that it has been 9 years since i have been constantly coming to your retreat and the number of guests i have been seeing suddenly struck me. You are so compassionate gurudeva. For the pleasure of your spiritual master and other devotees, you make sure you cut through the dense illusion and give them the highest knowledge and share the nectar of devotional service.
You have always been such a loving father. Your instructions are so practical. I remember when i was driving you recently i was being remorseful in my own mind about how much fallen i am and despite that you allow me to somehow serve you. Unable to resist i blurted out asking how can we improve our service.
Your answer was simple yet Profound. Chanting with attention was what you said. Most questions, I also noticed, how you always encourage those coming for personal darshan about how important it is to read Srila Prabhupada's books and chanting with attention.
yasya prasādād bhagavat-prasādo
yasyāprasādān na gatiḥ kuto 'pi
dhyāyan stuvaḿs tasya yaśas tri-sandhyaḿ
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
Despite every single morning we sing that, i fail as your disciple at every step. It is by the mercy of spiritual master, one can obtain krsna. However, mercy comes when at least there is effort from the disciple. The question then is where is my effort? I helpless feel its non-existent
But then somehow or other my godbrothers and godsisters keep me engaged. Somehow or other i am still clinging at the bottom of the ladder.
Please gurumaharaj koro doyā, deho more pada-chāyā
Let me be a speck at the dust of your lotus feet. As much as i truely want to feel such and imbibe it, i still feel so far away. Hopefully my baby steps will do justice to my meagre endeavour to be like a river whose end meet the ocean. Let that small river of endeavour reach the ocean of mercy that reside at your lotus feet.
Tie me to the hitching post of your lotus feet with strong ropes of devotional service. Else my wild senses are like unrestrained horses that are bent on making me fade in oblivion.
On this day of yours gurumaharaj, whatever pieity or recognition i may have got for any service i have performed, i want to place it at your lotus feet.
I pray for your good health so that you continue inspiring us, guiding us, correcting us and foremost for you to continue in accomplishing Srila Prabhupada's mission.
Thank you for being such a loving father.
Your unworthy insignificant servant
Dhira Siromani Dasa
srimate devamrita swami iti namine.
pracare purva daksyam ca
bhaktacara pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarva ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to your lotus feet!
All glories to your auspicious appearance day!
My entire lifetime has been characterized as a wastage in the persuit of distractions and in the frivolities of life while neglecting the real purpose of life. What has been more tragic is despite your strenous effort to guide me and although being amidst wonderful devotees i am still wandering through the maze of the thick dense forest of ignorance, allowing my so called wonderful friend, my mind, to lord his own whims.
Such has been my misfortune and on this auspicious day of yours, i beg for your mercy. Your mercy is already there through your instructions but as the saying goes you can bring a horse to the lake but cannot make it drink if it does not want to.
Shower your mercy in such a way that i become receptive to your instructions and guidance and i start shaping my life seriously.
It is impossible to describe your wonderful qualities with the limited capacity of intelligence i have. I find myself short of words. However since it is the duty of a disciple to glorify his Spiritual master on his vyasa puja day, i will try to assemble a few words for your pleasure. Please forgive my juvenile attempt.
Prabhupadanuga
If i had to summarize you in one word thats what i could come up with. Over the years, even a fool like me could notice how each action, word and quality of yours remind us of Srila Prabhupada. What an inspiration it is, to see the standard with which you follow in your spiritual master's footsteps. You certainly teach by example and overcoming health, distance, comfort and other inconveniences you strive so much to push forward the mission of Srila Prabhupada.
I still remember very recently you were correcting me about something. I was taken aback and noticed how humble you were. Normally a spiritual master rightfully chastises his disciple. It struck me when you began your words "Srila Prabhupada wanted his disciples..."
Then i thought to myself, how you carry Srila prabhupada with you and despite you were correcting me you placed it in such a way that i did not feel chastised. In fact you corrected me straightaway but at the same time i felt you poured so much love by giving me those corrections.
And it was not the first time. I remember my previous encounters when i also asked you about how spiritual name is chosen and even then you mentioned this is how and what Srila Prabhupada did.
Your magnanimous quality blended with tact, sharp intelligence and compassion together with a rare combination of humour, you have been transforming the lives of so many people. I can still remember how you roared in front of a record crowd attendance at melbourne uni programme where due to your purity, mercy and transcendence, people from apparent no background, no knowledge were participating in kirtan. They were listening to you with rapt attention. Some taking notes while others busy clicking pictures to be impatient to share on social media about how proud and lucky they were to be there. After we interviewed many guests there was not a single response of any sort of negativity nor boredom. In fact most of them came back somehow or other to mantra lounge or other various programmes.
I was recently serving you at our farm retreat and i was thinking about how over the years my service has been changing and by your mercy i have been able to serve you personally despite so many flaws and mistakes.
I then realised that it has been 9 years since i have been constantly coming to your retreat and the number of guests i have been seeing suddenly struck me. You are so compassionate gurudeva. For the pleasure of your spiritual master and other devotees, you make sure you cut through the dense illusion and give them the highest knowledge and share the nectar of devotional service.
You have always been such a loving father. Your instructions are so practical. I remember when i was driving you recently i was being remorseful in my own mind about how much fallen i am and despite that you allow me to somehow serve you. Unable to resist i blurted out asking how can we improve our service.
Your answer was simple yet Profound. Chanting with attention was what you said. Most questions, I also noticed, how you always encourage those coming for personal darshan about how important it is to read Srila Prabhupada's books and chanting with attention.
yasya prasādād bhagavat-prasādo
yasyāprasādān na gatiḥ kuto 'pi
dhyāyan stuvaḿs tasya yaśas tri-sandhyaḿ
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
Despite every single morning we sing that, i fail as your disciple at every step. It is by the mercy of spiritual master, one can obtain krsna. However, mercy comes when at least there is effort from the disciple. The question then is where is my effort? I helpless feel its non-existent
But then somehow or other my godbrothers and godsisters keep me engaged. Somehow or other i am still clinging at the bottom of the ladder.
Please gurumaharaj koro doyā, deho more pada-chāyā
Let me be a speck at the dust of your lotus feet. As much as i truely want to feel such and imbibe it, i still feel so far away. Hopefully my baby steps will do justice to my meagre endeavour to be like a river whose end meet the ocean. Let that small river of endeavour reach the ocean of mercy that reside at your lotus feet.
Tie me to the hitching post of your lotus feet with strong ropes of devotional service. Else my wild senses are like unrestrained horses that are bent on making me fade in oblivion.
On this day of yours gurumaharaj, whatever pieity or recognition i may have got for any service i have performed, i want to place it at your lotus feet.
I pray for your good health so that you continue inspiring us, guiding us, correcting us and foremost for you to continue in accomplishing Srila Prabhupada's mission.
Thank you for being such a loving father.
Your unworthy insignificant servant
Dhira Siromani Dasa
Dhira-Lalita Dasa
Hare Krsna Guru Maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on the most auspicious day of your appearance
Dear Guru Maharaj, your appearance is so auspicious that it sanctifies the whole atmosphere and even our existence.
Pariksit Maharaj states this to glorify his spiritual master Sukadeva Gosvami when he appeared before Pariksit in the following words:
The fortunate King Pariksit said: O brahmana, by your mercy only, you have sanctified us, making us like unto places of pilgrimage, all by your presence here as my guest. By your mercy, we, who are but unworthy royalty, become eligible to serve the devotee.
SB1.9.32
yeṣāṁ saṁsmaraṇāt puṁsāṁ
sadyaḥ śuddhyanti vai gṛhāḥ
kiṁ punar darśana-sparśa-
pāda-śaucāsanādibhiḥ
Simply by our remembering you, our houses become instantly sanctified. And what to speak of seeing you, touching you, washing your holy feet and offering you a seat in our home?
SB1.9.33
Vyasa-puja is a very auspicious day to remember and glorify the Spirtual Master, who is representing Srila Vyasadeva.
Srila Visvanatha Chakravarti Thakura says in Gurv-astaka prayers -
dhyāyan stuvaṁs tasya yaśas tri-sandhyaṁ
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
I should always remember and praise the spiritual master. At least three times a day I should offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of my spiritual master.
We remember you everyday in various ways, chanting the pranam mantra, singing Guru astakam, chanting our japa and hearing your sweet talks about Lord Krsna and devotional service, doing our services and many more. However your remembrance is especially strengthened by your personal instructions and kind association in vapu also whenever possible.
Reading these few verses spoken by the great devotee Pariksit Maharaj, I have been also remembering some really wonderful things that you have done for us all. Some of these wonderful things are your enlivening talks, powerful kirtans and amazing books that you have written, and giving us personal guidance when necessary etc.
I was remembering more specifically great Sankirtan/ book distribution going in a small country like New Zealand. I am very grateful and fortunate to have the opportunity to be there for sometime and see such great souls in action. The Loft and Gaura Yoga centres have become popular places for young people there and the numbers of devotees have increased significantly. The recharge festivals at New Gupta Vraja have become so big in few years time. All these things have been possible by your expert guidance to the devotees there. Of course there are many more places around the world where you visit and give your association to the devotees. This is just one example of such places that I have seen myself.
By promoting wisdom culture based on study and application of Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, you enlighten people to free themselves from the chains by the modes of passion and ignorance.
Lord Krsna confirms victimization of material energy in his own words of Bhagavad Gita -
mūḍhā janmani janmani
Bg16.20
The material energy befools conditioned living entities and keeps them entrapped in material existence life after life. Its bad enough to be fool once and what to say for to be a fool life after life.
In the preface of Srimad Bhagavatam, Srila Prabhupada also states the need of wisdom culture refering to modern society's rapid progress in the material field.
"Human society, at the present moment, is not in the darkness of oblivion. It has made rapid progress in the field of material comforts, education and economic development throughout the entire world. But there is a pinprick somewhere in the social body at large, and therefore there are large-scale quarrels, even over less important issues. There is need of a clue as to how humanity can become one in peace, friendship and prosperity with a common cause. Srimad Bhagavatam will fill this need, for it is a cultural presentation for the respiritualization of the entire human society."
Srila Prabhupada even gives example of a war between India and China in the early 70's, over a piece of land which is not suitable even for habitation. Prior to this they lived peacefully as friends for centuries without ill feeling.
"There is a great need for disseminating the message of Srimad Bhagavatam all over the world. It is the duty of every responsible Indian to broadcast the transcendental message of Srimad Bhagavatam throughout the world to do all the supermost good as well as to bring about the desired peace in the world. Because India has failed in her duty by neglecting this responsible work, there is so much quarrel and trouble all over the world. We are confident that if the transcendental message of Srimad Bhagavatam is received only by the leading men of the world, certainly there will be a change of heart, and naturally the people in general will follow them. The mass of people in general are tools in the hands of the modern politicians and leaders of the people. If there is a change of heart of the leaders only, certainly there will be a radical change in the atmosphere of the world."
SB1.5.11 purport
The great student-devotee Prahläda Maharaja recommends Srimad-Bhagavatam should be introduced also in the schools and colleges in order to change the demoniac face of society.
SB 7.6.1
Guru Maharaj, you have become one of the most dearest devotee of Lord Krsna by promoting this wisdom culture as Lord Krsna Himself confirms this in Bhagavad Gita (BG18.68-69).
I have been very fortunate to get your association by the mercy of Lord Krsna and His devotees. By your mercy I also have the fortune to serve you, the devotee bhagavata and Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, the book Bhagavata by studying, glorifying and distributing them.
On this most auspicious day of your appearance my prayer at your lotus feet is that you continue to bestow your benedictions on me to be engaged in service at your lotus feet eternally.
Praying for spiritual strength to serve you sincerely and nicely.
Your servant
Dhira-Lalita Dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on the most auspicious day of your appearance
Dear Guru Maharaj, your appearance is so auspicious that it sanctifies the whole atmosphere and even our existence.
Pariksit Maharaj states this to glorify his spiritual master Sukadeva Gosvami when he appeared before Pariksit in the following words:
The fortunate King Pariksit said: O brahmana, by your mercy only, you have sanctified us, making us like unto places of pilgrimage, all by your presence here as my guest. By your mercy, we, who are but unworthy royalty, become eligible to serve the devotee.
SB1.9.32
yeṣāṁ saṁsmaraṇāt puṁsāṁ
sadyaḥ śuddhyanti vai gṛhāḥ
kiṁ punar darśana-sparśa-
pāda-śaucāsanādibhiḥ
Simply by our remembering you, our houses become instantly sanctified. And what to speak of seeing you, touching you, washing your holy feet and offering you a seat in our home?
SB1.9.33
Vyasa-puja is a very auspicious day to remember and glorify the Spirtual Master, who is representing Srila Vyasadeva.
Srila Visvanatha Chakravarti Thakura says in Gurv-astaka prayers -
dhyāyan stuvaṁs tasya yaśas tri-sandhyaṁ
vande guroḥ śrī-caraṇāravindam
I should always remember and praise the spiritual master. At least three times a day I should offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of my spiritual master.
We remember you everyday in various ways, chanting the pranam mantra, singing Guru astakam, chanting our japa and hearing your sweet talks about Lord Krsna and devotional service, doing our services and many more. However your remembrance is especially strengthened by your personal instructions and kind association in vapu also whenever possible.
Reading these few verses spoken by the great devotee Pariksit Maharaj, I have been also remembering some really wonderful things that you have done for us all. Some of these wonderful things are your enlivening talks, powerful kirtans and amazing books that you have written, and giving us personal guidance when necessary etc.
I was remembering more specifically great Sankirtan/ book distribution going in a small country like New Zealand. I am very grateful and fortunate to have the opportunity to be there for sometime and see such great souls in action. The Loft and Gaura Yoga centres have become popular places for young people there and the numbers of devotees have increased significantly. The recharge festivals at New Gupta Vraja have become so big in few years time. All these things have been possible by your expert guidance to the devotees there. Of course there are many more places around the world where you visit and give your association to the devotees. This is just one example of such places that I have seen myself.
By promoting wisdom culture based on study and application of Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, you enlighten people to free themselves from the chains by the modes of passion and ignorance.
Lord Krsna confirms victimization of material energy in his own words of Bhagavad Gita -
mūḍhā janmani janmani
Bg16.20
The material energy befools conditioned living entities and keeps them entrapped in material existence life after life. Its bad enough to be fool once and what to say for to be a fool life after life.
In the preface of Srimad Bhagavatam, Srila Prabhupada also states the need of wisdom culture refering to modern society's rapid progress in the material field.
"Human society, at the present moment, is not in the darkness of oblivion. It has made rapid progress in the field of material comforts, education and economic development throughout the entire world. But there is a pinprick somewhere in the social body at large, and therefore there are large-scale quarrels, even over less important issues. There is need of a clue as to how humanity can become one in peace, friendship and prosperity with a common cause. Srimad Bhagavatam will fill this need, for it is a cultural presentation for the respiritualization of the entire human society."
Srila Prabhupada even gives example of a war between India and China in the early 70's, over a piece of land which is not suitable even for habitation. Prior to this they lived peacefully as friends for centuries without ill feeling.
"There is a great need for disseminating the message of Srimad Bhagavatam all over the world. It is the duty of every responsible Indian to broadcast the transcendental message of Srimad Bhagavatam throughout the world to do all the supermost good as well as to bring about the desired peace in the world. Because India has failed in her duty by neglecting this responsible work, there is so much quarrel and trouble all over the world. We are confident that if the transcendental message of Srimad Bhagavatam is received only by the leading men of the world, certainly there will be a change of heart, and naturally the people in general will follow them. The mass of people in general are tools in the hands of the modern politicians and leaders of the people. If there is a change of heart of the leaders only, certainly there will be a radical change in the atmosphere of the world."
SB1.5.11 purport
The great student-devotee Prahläda Maharaja recommends Srimad-Bhagavatam should be introduced also in the schools and colleges in order to change the demoniac face of society.
SB 7.6.1
Guru Maharaj, you have become one of the most dearest devotee of Lord Krsna by promoting this wisdom culture as Lord Krsna Himself confirms this in Bhagavad Gita (BG18.68-69).
I have been very fortunate to get your association by the mercy of Lord Krsna and His devotees. By your mercy I also have the fortune to serve you, the devotee bhagavata and Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, the book Bhagavata by studying, glorifying and distributing them.
On this most auspicious day of your appearance my prayer at your lotus feet is that you continue to bestow your benedictions on me to be engaged in service at your lotus feet eternally.
Praying for spiritual strength to serve you sincerely and nicely.
Your servant
Dhira-Lalita Dasa
Dhruvananda Das
Dear Gurumaharaja,
I offer my respectful obeisances unto you who are expert in directing the western mind towards Krishna.
There once was a man who realised he was not his body because it was always changing yet he was still here. He realised he was not these atoms, these “clouds of probability”, because they needed him to be conscious of them in order for them to “collapse” into his perception. He realised he was not his false mind, which is going on mostly automatically, subconsciously, corrupted by his misplaced desire and fed by the three modes of material nature. He realised he was not the mind that the scientists say is the software that runs on his machine-like brain and gives him his sense of self. He realised he was not the mind that the Buddhist and the Priests of the Church of Neuroscience alike strive to lose through meditation and speculation and when they feel as though they have lost it they claim that there is no self at all. “The self is an illusion”, they announce as they preach their theological doctrine to the bewildered, atheistic and ignorant. No, he was not that mind either.
He practiced ridding on mantra down within, through the layers of what he was not. He exercised whatever intelligence he had to make distinctions inside and outside of himself. His conclusion on arrival was “aham brahmasmi, I am brahman”, a spark of Krishna but with no separate identity. First he was overcome with terror for he was so tiny and everything he thought he was was gone. Then he felt safe for he was part of God and all his fears had only been illusions. Tears began to flow but not tears of love; they were tears of embarrassment for he had been foolish and doubtful for so many years. He realised he had found himself but he had also lost himself because he did not find the Paramattama, the Supersoul. Alas what had he done! He attempted to cross on his own but he had hit the ceiling, the rays of the sun. He may not pass; he may not enter the abode of the Lord. He tried to find his way by his own prowess. He tried to find his way without Guru.
He recalled the mantra from Sri Isopanishad, Iso Mantra 16.
<center><i>pūṣann ekarṣe yama sūrya prājāpatya
vyūha raśmīn samūha
tejo yat te rūpaṁ kalyāṇa-tamaṁ
tat te paśyāmi yo 'sāv asau puruṣaḥ so 'ham asmi</i></center>
<strong>O my Lord, O primeval philosopher, maintainer of the universe, O regulating principle, destination of the pure devotees, well-wisher of the progenitors of mankind, please remove the effulgence of Your transcendental rays so that I can see Your form of bliss. You are the eternal Supreme Personality of Godhead, like unto the sun, as am I.</strong>
In the purport Srila Prabhupada explains; that the Lord and the Jiva are non-different qualitatively, that the Brahmin effulgence emanates from Krishna’s body in Goloka Vrindavan and that philosophical speculators can realise brahman but they cannot realise Krishna or enter into His realm. Only the pure devotees who have had the favour of Lord can enter beyond the purview of the brahma-jyotir.
But what was he to do? He was not a pure devotee nor had he attained the mercy of one. He recalled the story of the Four Kumaras and their prayers of gratitude on seeing the form of the lord (SB 3.15.46)
<center><i>kumārā ūcuḥ
yo ’ntarhito hṛdi gato ’pi durātmanāṁ tvaṁ
so ’dyaiva no nayana-mūlam ananta rāddhaḥ
yarhy eva karṇa-vivareṇa guhāṁ gato naḥ
pitrānuvarṇita-rahā bhavad-udbhavena</i></center>
<strong>The Kumāras said: Our dear Lord, You are not manifested to rascals, even though You are seated within the heart of everyone. But as far as we are concerned, we see You face to face, although You are unlimited. The statements we have heard about You from our father, Brahmā, through the ears have now been actually realized by Your kind appearance.</strong>
Srila Prabhupada explains in the purport that very expert yogis cannot see the Lord, who is right there in the heart, because they are durātmā, crooked hearted and the four Kumaras got to see the Lord only because they were sincerely searching for him.
The man in our story had doubted his genuine desire in the past having met with some of the weeds in his heart. There are many stations to stop at for rest and recreation on the way to vaikuntha. By the power of Rama nama he was able to actually realize that those weeds were also not him and therefor they would not truly satisfy him. After a taste of brahman he felt a reigniting of enthusiasm to meet with the Lord in reality, beyond religious theory but he also knew that he could not go further without the mercy of Guru. How will he get the mercy of guru?
He recalled a verse by Visvanat Chakrivati Thakura praying to Lord Shiva, who is Jagat Guru, to grant him entrance into Vrindavan.
<center><i>vrndavanavani-pate jaya soma soma-maule
sanaka-sanandana-sanatana-naradedya
gopisvara vraja-vilasi-yuganghri-padme
prema prayaccha nirupadhi nama namaste</i></center>
<strong>O gatekeeper of Vrndavana! O Soma, all glories unto you! O you whose forehead is decorated with the moon, and who is worshipable by Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana, Narada and other great sages. O Gopisvara! Desiring that you bestow upon me divine love for the lotus feet of Sri Sri Radha-Govinda who perform joyous pastimes in Vraja-dhama, I offer my respects unto you again and again! (Stavavali)</strong>
It is in this mood that a pray to you Srila Gurudeva on this auspicious celebration of your appearance. I am working hard on my own to escape the clutches of illusion and I have become very proud of my progress but it’s all for nothing if I haven’t found Krishna. I beg you for a drop of mercy. If you don’t give it to me it will be a life wasted. If you don’t give it to me I will never see the beautiful two-armed form of Krishna.
Your crooked-hearted servant,
Dhruvananda Das
I offer my respectful obeisances unto you who are expert in directing the western mind towards Krishna.
There once was a man who realised he was not his body because it was always changing yet he was still here. He realised he was not these atoms, these “clouds of probability”, because they needed him to be conscious of them in order for them to “collapse” into his perception. He realised he was not his false mind, which is going on mostly automatically, subconsciously, corrupted by his misplaced desire and fed by the three modes of material nature. He realised he was not the mind that the scientists say is the software that runs on his machine-like brain and gives him his sense of self. He realised he was not the mind that the Buddhist and the Priests of the Church of Neuroscience alike strive to lose through meditation and speculation and when they feel as though they have lost it they claim that there is no self at all. “The self is an illusion”, they announce as they preach their theological doctrine to the bewildered, atheistic and ignorant. No, he was not that mind either.
He practiced ridding on mantra down within, through the layers of what he was not. He exercised whatever intelligence he had to make distinctions inside and outside of himself. His conclusion on arrival was “aham brahmasmi, I am brahman”, a spark of Krishna but with no separate identity. First he was overcome with terror for he was so tiny and everything he thought he was was gone. Then he felt safe for he was part of God and all his fears had only been illusions. Tears began to flow but not tears of love; they were tears of embarrassment for he had been foolish and doubtful for so many years. He realised he had found himself but he had also lost himself because he did not find the Paramattama, the Supersoul. Alas what had he done! He attempted to cross on his own but he had hit the ceiling, the rays of the sun. He may not pass; he may not enter the abode of the Lord. He tried to find his way by his own prowess. He tried to find his way without Guru.
He recalled the mantra from Sri Isopanishad, Iso Mantra 16.
<center><i>pūṣann ekarṣe yama sūrya prājāpatya
vyūha raśmīn samūha
tejo yat te rūpaṁ kalyāṇa-tamaṁ
tat te paśyāmi yo 'sāv asau puruṣaḥ so 'ham asmi</i></center>
<strong>O my Lord, O primeval philosopher, maintainer of the universe, O regulating principle, destination of the pure devotees, well-wisher of the progenitors of mankind, please remove the effulgence of Your transcendental rays so that I can see Your form of bliss. You are the eternal Supreme Personality of Godhead, like unto the sun, as am I.</strong>
In the purport Srila Prabhupada explains; that the Lord and the Jiva are non-different qualitatively, that the Brahmin effulgence emanates from Krishna’s body in Goloka Vrindavan and that philosophical speculators can realise brahman but they cannot realise Krishna or enter into His realm. Only the pure devotees who have had the favour of Lord can enter beyond the purview of the brahma-jyotir.
But what was he to do? He was not a pure devotee nor had he attained the mercy of one. He recalled the story of the Four Kumaras and their prayers of gratitude on seeing the form of the lord (SB 3.15.46)
<center><i>kumārā ūcuḥ
yo ’ntarhito hṛdi gato ’pi durātmanāṁ tvaṁ
so ’dyaiva no nayana-mūlam ananta rāddhaḥ
yarhy eva karṇa-vivareṇa guhāṁ gato naḥ
pitrānuvarṇita-rahā bhavad-udbhavena</i></center>
<strong>The Kumāras said: Our dear Lord, You are not manifested to rascals, even though You are seated within the heart of everyone. But as far as we are concerned, we see You face to face, although You are unlimited. The statements we have heard about You from our father, Brahmā, through the ears have now been actually realized by Your kind appearance.</strong>
Srila Prabhupada explains in the purport that very expert yogis cannot see the Lord, who is right there in the heart, because they are durātmā, crooked hearted and the four Kumaras got to see the Lord only because they were sincerely searching for him.
The man in our story had doubted his genuine desire in the past having met with some of the weeds in his heart. There are many stations to stop at for rest and recreation on the way to vaikuntha. By the power of Rama nama he was able to actually realize that those weeds were also not him and therefor they would not truly satisfy him. After a taste of brahman he felt a reigniting of enthusiasm to meet with the Lord in reality, beyond religious theory but he also knew that he could not go further without the mercy of Guru. How will he get the mercy of guru?
He recalled a verse by Visvanat Chakrivati Thakura praying to Lord Shiva, who is Jagat Guru, to grant him entrance into Vrindavan.
<center><i>vrndavanavani-pate jaya soma soma-maule
sanaka-sanandana-sanatana-naradedya
gopisvara vraja-vilasi-yuganghri-padme
prema prayaccha nirupadhi nama namaste</i></center>
<strong>O gatekeeper of Vrndavana! O Soma, all glories unto you! O you whose forehead is decorated with the moon, and who is worshipable by Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanatana, Narada and other great sages. O Gopisvara! Desiring that you bestow upon me divine love for the lotus feet of Sri Sri Radha-Govinda who perform joyous pastimes in Vraja-dhama, I offer my respects unto you again and again! (Stavavali)</strong>
It is in this mood that a pray to you Srila Gurudeva on this auspicious celebration of your appearance. I am working hard on my own to escape the clutches of illusion and I have become very proud of my progress but it’s all for nothing if I haven’t found Krishna. I beg you for a drop of mercy. If you don’t give it to me it will be a life wasted. If you don’t give it to me I will never see the beautiful two-armed form of Krishna.
Your crooked-hearted servant,
Dhruvananda Das
Dina Dayala devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances in the dust of your lotus feet.
Recently, while thinking of you, I happened to see the first rays of morning sun pierce through the trees. As each shaft pierced through, it lengthened before my eyes, reminding me of Srila Prabhupada’s explanation of Krishna consciousness in the Preface to Nectar of Devotion.
“Our loving propensity expands just as a vibration of light or air expands, but we do not know where it ends. The Nectar of Devotion teaches us the science of loving every one of the living entities perfectly by the easy method of loving Krishna.”
You are a magnificent example of a person whose heart radiates bhakti due to completely reposing your loving propensity in Krishna. This makes you effulgent and magnanimous, illuminating the conditioned souls’ darkness with penetrating knowledge and compassion and, like the sun, you shine your mercy on everyone’s heads.
Loving every one of the living entities perfectly by the easy method of loving Krishna, you inspire Srila Prabhupada’s book distribution, create and maintain outreach centres, produce your own books, articles, videos and travel the globe to teach and guide devotees and perform GBC duties. Amazingly, in the midst of all this, you give yourself freely to any interested soul and care for your disciples.
Gurudeva, I’m ever grateful to be a recipient of this love. Over the last year, you have shown deep understanding of my difficulties and reached into my life to give me encouragement and guidance.
Your love— reposed completely in Krishna, fixed throughout all difficulties at the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupada—expands without limit and transcends all material obstacles.
I’d like to reciprocate with your care by assisting you at this time— when people need the rays of a great Vaisnava’s compassion more than ever.
Praying to remain in the sunshine of your mercy,
your servant,
Dina Dayala devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances in the dust of your lotus feet.
Recently, while thinking of you, I happened to see the first rays of morning sun pierce through the trees. As each shaft pierced through, it lengthened before my eyes, reminding me of Srila Prabhupada’s explanation of Krishna consciousness in the Preface to Nectar of Devotion.
“Our loving propensity expands just as a vibration of light or air expands, but we do not know where it ends. The Nectar of Devotion teaches us the science of loving every one of the living entities perfectly by the easy method of loving Krishna.”
You are a magnificent example of a person whose heart radiates bhakti due to completely reposing your loving propensity in Krishna. This makes you effulgent and magnanimous, illuminating the conditioned souls’ darkness with penetrating knowledge and compassion and, like the sun, you shine your mercy on everyone’s heads.
Loving every one of the living entities perfectly by the easy method of loving Krishna, you inspire Srila Prabhupada’s book distribution, create and maintain outreach centres, produce your own books, articles, videos and travel the globe to teach and guide devotees and perform GBC duties. Amazingly, in the midst of all this, you give yourself freely to any interested soul and care for your disciples.
Gurudeva, I’m ever grateful to be a recipient of this love. Over the last year, you have shown deep understanding of my difficulties and reached into my life to give me encouragement and guidance.
Your love— reposed completely in Krishna, fixed throughout all difficulties at the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupada—expands without limit and transcends all material obstacles.
I’d like to reciprocate with your care by assisting you at this time— when people need the rays of a great Vaisnava’s compassion more than ever.
Praying to remain in the sunshine of your mercy,
your servant,
Dina Dayala devi dasi
Dinodhari Das and Family
nama oṁ viṣnu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dearest Gurudev,
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada All glories to Your Lotus Feet.
We thank you for increasing our faith in Krishna Conciousness and giving us faith in Prabhupada’s books. As a family, we regularly on a daily basis read Prabhupada’s books – The Bhagvatam and Bhagavad Gita and we find pleasure by doing this. Our parents also read Prabhupada’s Bhagvatam regularly and they find great satisfaction in their lifes.
On this auspicious occasion of your Vyasa Puja we want to thank you for giving us very nice association in the form of your disciples who are examples for us all. Without them, it would be very difficult and not possible for us to be serious in Krishna consciousness and feel inspired. We thank you for giving us such helpful godbrothers.
On this auspicious day, We beg your mercy so that we can get taste of the Holy name so that we can realise Krishna’s sweet name and become more effective in giving the taste of holy name to others. We beg you to please give your mercy to taste the holy name.
Aspiring to be your humble servants,
Dindodhari Das, Satyadhari Dasi and Little Krishna Das
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dearest Gurudev,
Please accept our humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada All glories to Your Lotus Feet.
We thank you for increasing our faith in Krishna Conciousness and giving us faith in Prabhupada’s books. As a family, we regularly on a daily basis read Prabhupada’s books – The Bhagvatam and Bhagavad Gita and we find pleasure by doing this. Our parents also read Prabhupada’s Bhagvatam regularly and they find great satisfaction in their lifes.
On this auspicious occasion of your Vyasa Puja we want to thank you for giving us very nice association in the form of your disciples who are examples for us all. Without them, it would be very difficult and not possible for us to be serious in Krishna consciousness and feel inspired. We thank you for giving us such helpful godbrothers.
On this auspicious day, We beg your mercy so that we can get taste of the Holy name so that we can realise Krishna’s sweet name and become more effective in giving the taste of holy name to others. We beg you to please give your mercy to taste the holy name.
Aspiring to be your humble servants,
Dindodhari Das, Satyadhari Dasi and Little Krishna Das
Divya Jnana dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you, on this wonderful day of your appearance.
I was taking stock of my life in Krsna Consciousness and I have now been practicing for 18 years. I’m not sure where the time went but feels like time well spent. I’m glad I dedicated my youthful energies to preaching Krsna Consciousness. I sometimes look back and wonder if I missed out not having a conventional life of material enjoyment but all I can see is material enjoyment is like trying to grab smoke. It looks like you can capture it but always ends up disappearing. Dedicating my youthful energies to Krsna Consciousness were the best times I had.
My life at the moment is a bit messy. Though in time I sure it will get better.
I pray that I can remain dedicated to you and Srila Prabhupada and still direct my energies to serving you.
Your Servant
Divya Jnana dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you, on this wonderful day of your appearance.
I was taking stock of my life in Krsna Consciousness and I have now been practicing for 18 years. I’m not sure where the time went but feels like time well spent. I’m glad I dedicated my youthful energies to preaching Krsna Consciousness. I sometimes look back and wonder if I missed out not having a conventional life of material enjoyment but all I can see is material enjoyment is like trying to grab smoke. It looks like you can capture it but always ends up disappearing. Dedicating my youthful energies to Krsna Consciousness were the best times I had.
My life at the moment is a bit messy. Though in time I sure it will get better.
I pray that I can remain dedicated to you and Srila Prabhupada and still direct my energies to serving you.
Your Servant
Divya Jnana dasa
Ekant Dham das
Hare Krsna!
Dear Guru Maharaj
Please accept my humble obesiances at your lotus feet.
This is a very special opportunity for any disciple to offer his obesiances to his Guru. It is not us so special that we do write a flowery language to show our gratitude towards our Guru but it is Guru, who accepts our humble offerings. A person like me, who does not know anything about Guru, takes courage to write about Guru. Who am I? What I can write about you? Even then you are so merciful that you do accept my offerings.
I still remember my first offerings at your lotus feet. I was very much new at that time and so do I am now. I was completely unaware of Guru and Guru Parampara. While doing my IDC (ISKCON Disciple Course), I could understand a glimpse of Guru and His qualities. We are so fortunate that we are in so rich Guru–Parampara. We do have spiritual master like Srila Prabhupada and you. It is only in our Parampara that we discuss about Guru, His qualities and His responsibility so vastly. We are not the blind followers. We do have Sadhu, Guru and Sastras to enlighten us.
In our rich Guru–Parampara, sometimes I do feel very proud that I have got spiritual master like you, who is carrying and representing whole ISKCON administratively and spiritually in both the way. Your teachings are gems not only for your disciples but for the well wishers of ISKCON. Your clear understandings and teachings are valuable for the whole world. In this Kaliyuga, when even devotees are struggling hard, your teachings are like an ointment and give us instant relief. Whosoever is listening you through your valuable lectures and books will surely become devotee. You just represent a perfect blend of scriptures and modern society. Your knowledge on Caitanya Caritamrita is really appreciable. Anyone can understand that you have studied the scriptures so well. Not only this, impacts of scriptures reflects in your behavior. You are perfect Acarya.
On your Vyasa–Puja day, what a person like me can offer you. I am just your unworthy servant and only thing I can do is to beg at your lotus feet that you are the only person who can save me from material sufferings and guide me to Go Back to Godhead. My humble prayers at lotus feet of Sri Sri Radha Govind Devji that He should keep you healthy. Please bless me to be able to serve you, Srila Prabhupada and His mission ISKCON.
Thank you very much
Happy Vyasa Puja to you Guru Maharaj
Your unworthy servant
Ekant Dham Das
ISKCON Noida
Dear Guru Maharaj
Please accept my humble obesiances at your lotus feet.
This is a very special opportunity for any disciple to offer his obesiances to his Guru. It is not us so special that we do write a flowery language to show our gratitude towards our Guru but it is Guru, who accepts our humble offerings. A person like me, who does not know anything about Guru, takes courage to write about Guru. Who am I? What I can write about you? Even then you are so merciful that you do accept my offerings.
I still remember my first offerings at your lotus feet. I was very much new at that time and so do I am now. I was completely unaware of Guru and Guru Parampara. While doing my IDC (ISKCON Disciple Course), I could understand a glimpse of Guru and His qualities. We are so fortunate that we are in so rich Guru–Parampara. We do have spiritual master like Srila Prabhupada and you. It is only in our Parampara that we discuss about Guru, His qualities and His responsibility so vastly. We are not the blind followers. We do have Sadhu, Guru and Sastras to enlighten us.
In our rich Guru–Parampara, sometimes I do feel very proud that I have got spiritual master like you, who is carrying and representing whole ISKCON administratively and spiritually in both the way. Your teachings are gems not only for your disciples but for the well wishers of ISKCON. Your clear understandings and teachings are valuable for the whole world. In this Kaliyuga, when even devotees are struggling hard, your teachings are like an ointment and give us instant relief. Whosoever is listening you through your valuable lectures and books will surely become devotee. You just represent a perfect blend of scriptures and modern society. Your knowledge on Caitanya Caritamrita is really appreciable. Anyone can understand that you have studied the scriptures so well. Not only this, impacts of scriptures reflects in your behavior. You are perfect Acarya.
On your Vyasa–Puja day, what a person like me can offer you. I am just your unworthy servant and only thing I can do is to beg at your lotus feet that you are the only person who can save me from material sufferings and guide me to Go Back to Godhead. My humble prayers at lotus feet of Sri Sri Radha Govind Devji that He should keep you healthy. Please bless me to be able to serve you, Srila Prabhupada and His mission ISKCON.
Thank you very much
Happy Vyasa Puja to you Guru Maharaj
Your unworthy servant
Ekant Dham Das
ISKCON Noida
Ekatma Gaur Das
I offer my respectful obeisances to Srimate Devamrta Swami who is very dear to Lord Krsna on this earth, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.
Obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
Dear Gurudev,
On this auspicious occasion, please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Gurudev, it is so inspiring to see that how much love you have for Krishna in your heart that you work so hard to serve him?
Through your lectures you ask us to constantly evaluate ourselves. To always look to check if we are on the spiritual path. For you it is like a career, we must know where we started, where we are and where we're going. You have guided us always that we need to fix our goal always on Krishna.
When I reflect and look back over the years and see how you've helped and guided me through so many situations in my life and feel inspired by your instructions, even it was given years back. It's so enlightening that you have different instructions for different disciples according to their situation in life, as it is said in Nectar of Devotion that the principle is the same but the way to execute can be different.
I thank you for all that you've done for me and hope that someday, I can please you by progressing in Krsna consciousness.
I prey for your blessings that I can remain steady on the path of devotion, to chant my rounds attentively and read Srlia Prabhupada's books.
Aspiring to be your useful servant.
Ekatma Gaur Das
Obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
Dear Gurudev,
On this auspicious occasion, please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Gurudev, it is so inspiring to see that how much love you have for Krishna in your heart that you work so hard to serve him?
Through your lectures you ask us to constantly evaluate ourselves. To always look to check if we are on the spiritual path. For you it is like a career, we must know where we started, where we are and where we're going. You have guided us always that we need to fix our goal always on Krishna.
When I reflect and look back over the years and see how you've helped and guided me through so many situations in my life and feel inspired by your instructions, even it was given years back. It's so enlightening that you have different instructions for different disciples according to their situation in life, as it is said in Nectar of Devotion that the principle is the same but the way to execute can be different.
I thank you for all that you've done for me and hope that someday, I can please you by progressing in Krsna consciousness.
I prey for your blessings that I can remain steady on the path of devotion, to chant my rounds attentively and read Srlia Prabhupada's books.
Aspiring to be your useful servant.
Ekatma Gaur Das
Esther Sharp
Dearest Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories Srila Prabhupada!
I write with complete apprehension but deep desire to send you a first offering on your special day, one in which we celebrate your glories, magnanimity and opulence. I recall the first time meeting you, over 18 months ago now, and you transmitting me into this beautiful abode of Prabhupada and ISKON. It is extremely challenging for me, to articulate the words to express my gratitude at finally finding my home, finding my connection, finding the Supreme whole within me – Krishna.
Prior to leaving the UK, in the depths of my despair in Kali Yuga, a burnt out Social Worker of eight years, and confused Hatha Yogi, I had been in a deep depression and was moving on from a long phase with a very special Psychotherapist. Via this whirlpool of mind despair, and therapy I wrote my mum a letter, expressing that I need to find and serve God, find home, and find the person I have always desperately wished to become, but never felt able. She never commented on this letter, and once when I asked her if she had read this before leaving the UK, she stated she had. I asked her feelings around this, she said she was trying to understand and hoped one day she would. I knew then, that I needed to find my true home, and the real self I have never been able to express.
Thirty one year’s on, I am here, some what wishing in so many ways it had come a good ten years earlier, but Hey Ho. Krishna has me, you have me and I now know I deeply pray to be on my way home – I am determined, with burning desire, to aspire to be a servant, devotee of Krishna, to serve the servant of the servant of the servant. I pray for Krishna’s mercy, and I thank you again for your ongoing self-belief that I have the courage, fortitude and integrity to follow this path from now to eternity – the path I was born to follow.
I also wish to thank you for the most wonderful association and support in may devotees in Auckland and Wellington, training time, from Krishna Loka and her team, words again would never suffice. In recent times I have not felt able to express myself fully, and ashram life has not been the most natural experience for me, but I have remained determined, and now deep friendships I foresee and now nurture with those most dear. I had intended to include sastra, and references to the voice of Krishna to which forms the foundation of our mission– hearing and chanting. I am sorry I have not, I do feel slightly inept at not doing this, but the only most natural thing is to right from my heart.
I deeply wish to develop in my immediate future, and foundation in Bhakti to find a lasting home in either New Zealand or Wales. A strong wish to develop my service of sankirtan and cultivation my strongest and most loved service. I have a strong desire to bring more people to Bhakti, and relish the opportunity to describe the connection to Krishna via transcendtal sound vibrations, Prasad, and wonderful Vedic texts. I continue to find it impossible to let a day pass when I cannot saturate myself in not hearing the past times of Krishna.
In the last month or two, I am observing a change in myself and abilities to see how I wish to shape my life in Krishna’s service, and also in my career back in Social Work. I have been volunteering with Barnardos, a NZ not for profit organization, in Wellington working with children in care, or who have witnessed domestic violence in the home. This has been a challenging area to work to, but feeling Krishna in my heart, remembering his words, and seeing the vulnerability and fragility of the children I meet. I see more than ever the world needs Krishna Conscious, and I want to be a huge part of serving the mission. I ask for you to consider me in future projects, and for faith that I could have the potential to be a strong cog in the New Zealand or Wales wheel and to serve you indefinitely.
I am in love with Krishna, his name,grace, opulence, honesty, strength, and your ability to even to aspire connect me to him directly is one I can never ever express my thanks and everlasting wishes for.
I will draw a close, to these brief sentiments, and hope you will receive these, and in the coming years wish to mature and grow as your daughter. I hope you will accept this request.
Forever in your service.
Ys humbly aspiring servant
Esther
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories Srila Prabhupada!
I write with complete apprehension but deep desire to send you a first offering on your special day, one in which we celebrate your glories, magnanimity and opulence. I recall the first time meeting you, over 18 months ago now, and you transmitting me into this beautiful abode of Prabhupada and ISKON. It is extremely challenging for me, to articulate the words to express my gratitude at finally finding my home, finding my connection, finding the Supreme whole within me – Krishna.
Prior to leaving the UK, in the depths of my despair in Kali Yuga, a burnt out Social Worker of eight years, and confused Hatha Yogi, I had been in a deep depression and was moving on from a long phase with a very special Psychotherapist. Via this whirlpool of mind despair, and therapy I wrote my mum a letter, expressing that I need to find and serve God, find home, and find the person I have always desperately wished to become, but never felt able. She never commented on this letter, and once when I asked her if she had read this before leaving the UK, she stated she had. I asked her feelings around this, she said she was trying to understand and hoped one day she would. I knew then, that I needed to find my true home, and the real self I have never been able to express.
Thirty one year’s on, I am here, some what wishing in so many ways it had come a good ten years earlier, but Hey Ho. Krishna has me, you have me and I now know I deeply pray to be on my way home – I am determined, with burning desire, to aspire to be a servant, devotee of Krishna, to serve the servant of the servant of the servant. I pray for Krishna’s mercy, and I thank you again for your ongoing self-belief that I have the courage, fortitude and integrity to follow this path from now to eternity – the path I was born to follow.
I also wish to thank you for the most wonderful association and support in may devotees in Auckland and Wellington, training time, from Krishna Loka and her team, words again would never suffice. In recent times I have not felt able to express myself fully, and ashram life has not been the most natural experience for me, but I have remained determined, and now deep friendships I foresee and now nurture with those most dear. I had intended to include sastra, and references to the voice of Krishna to which forms the foundation of our mission– hearing and chanting. I am sorry I have not, I do feel slightly inept at not doing this, but the only most natural thing is to right from my heart.
I deeply wish to develop in my immediate future, and foundation in Bhakti to find a lasting home in either New Zealand or Wales. A strong wish to develop my service of sankirtan and cultivation my strongest and most loved service. I have a strong desire to bring more people to Bhakti, and relish the opportunity to describe the connection to Krishna via transcendtal sound vibrations, Prasad, and wonderful Vedic texts. I continue to find it impossible to let a day pass when I cannot saturate myself in not hearing the past times of Krishna.
In the last month or two, I am observing a change in myself and abilities to see how I wish to shape my life in Krishna’s service, and also in my career back in Social Work. I have been volunteering with Barnardos, a NZ not for profit organization, in Wellington working with children in care, or who have witnessed domestic violence in the home. This has been a challenging area to work to, but feeling Krishna in my heart, remembering his words, and seeing the vulnerability and fragility of the children I meet. I see more than ever the world needs Krishna Conscious, and I want to be a huge part of serving the mission. I ask for you to consider me in future projects, and for faith that I could have the potential to be a strong cog in the New Zealand or Wales wheel and to serve you indefinitely.
I am in love with Krishna, his name,grace, opulence, honesty, strength, and your ability to even to aspire connect me to him directly is one I can never ever express my thanks and everlasting wishes for.
I will draw a close, to these brief sentiments, and hope you will receive these, and in the coming years wish to mature and grow as your daughter. I hope you will accept this request.
Forever in your service.
Ys humbly aspiring servant
Esther
Gadai Gauranga dasa
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you on this divine day of your appearance.
I was contemplating the impossible task of how to offer you words of praise and glorification this year. Needless to say, it’s beyond my power to do so. One thing I did realize is that you are an overqualified guru and I am an under qualified disciple.
For there to be proper transmission of transcendental knowledge, not just the speaker, but the hearer also needs to be qualified. So in attempting to muster some words together, I thought that this year instead of focusing on your over qualification, which many of your disciples will be attempting to extol, I’d like to attempt to become more qualified to receive your abundant mercy.
You are an outreach hero, especially in the Western countries where the challenge is even greater. You so eloquently present the essence of Krishna consciousness, stressing the mercy of Lord Caitanya again and again
“Vaisnavas don’t live for themselves; they live to give Krsna to others. That’s what it means to follow Lord Caitanya.”
Bhagavatam Class, Gaura Purnima 2013
In light of this, I have recently been reading Teachings of Lord Caitanya and was immensely inspired. Here is a perfect disciple. The Lord Himself is teaching how to fully surrender to the spiritual master. So, by sharing some meditations on Lord Caitanya, in the role of a perfect disciple, I hope to invoke your mercy. Please, may you bless me with even an insignificant fraction of His submissiveness, so I may become even to the slightest degree, qualified to serve you.
When Lord Caitanya was asked by Prakasananda Sarasvati, the leader of the Mayavadi sannyasis why he was chanting and dancing like a sentimentalist, instead of studying the Vedanta, he exemplified his unflinching faith in his Gurudeva by the following reply.
“My dear sir,” Lord Caitanya replied, “My spiritual master considered Me a great fool. Therefore he has more or less punished Me by saying that because I am such a fool I have no capacity to study the Vedānta. So he kindly gave Me the chanting of Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. My spiritual master told Me, ‘Just go on chanting this Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra; it will make You all-perfect.’”
(TLC, Chapter 18)
Lord Caitanya also displayed that he was not a blind follower. The sastric evidence given by His spiritual master convinced Him.
“Lord Caitanya also told Prakāśānanda Sarasvatī, “In order to convince Me about this essential fact of Vedic knowledge, My spiritual master has taught Me a verse from the Bṛhan-nāradīya Purāṇa (38.126). Harer nāma harer nāma harer nāmaiva kevalam/ kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva nāsty eva gatir anyathā: “In this age of quarrel and hypocrisy, the only means of deliverance is the chanting of the holy name of the Lord. There is no other way. There is no other way. There is no other way.””
(TLC, Chapter 18)
When Lord Caitanya followed His spiritual masters order sincerely, and, in due course, become mad in love for Krsna, He continued to approach His Guru for further guidance, highlighting the eternality of the relationship. A disciple will forever take guidance.
“Lord Caitanya then told Prakāśānanda Sarasvatī that because He received the order from His spiritual master He was constantly chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. “As a result of this chanting,” the Lord said, “I sometimes become very impatient and cannot restrain Myself from dancing and laughing or crying and singing. Indeed, I become just like a madman. When I first wondered whether I had become mad by chanting this Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare, I approached My spiritual master and informed him that I had gone mad by chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. Thus I asked him what was My actual position.”
(TLC, Chapter 18)
Lord Caitanya ultimately pleased His spiritual master by his submissive and sincere service attitude.
“Lord Caitanya said that His spiritual master told Him: “It is very good that You have attained such a perfectional stage of love of Godhead. Because of Your attainment, I am very much obliged to You.” The father becomes enlivened when he sees his son advance beyond himself. Similarly, the spiritual master takes more pleasure in seeing his disciple advance than in advancing himself. Thus Lord Caitanya’s spiritual master blessed Him, telling Him: “Dance, sing, propagate this saṅkīrtana movement and, by instructing people about Kṛṣṇa, try to deliver them from nescience.”
(TLC, Chapter 19)
Finally, Lord Caitanya re-iterated his determination to always follow His spiritual masters instructions with full faith.
“Lord Caitanya further informed Prakāśānanda Sarasvatī: “Because I have full faith in My spiritual master’s words, I always engage in chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. I do not know how I have become just like a madman, but I believe the name of Kṛṣṇa has induced Me. I have realized that the transcendental pleasure derived from chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare is just like an ocean, in comparison to which all other pleasures, including the pleasure of impersonal realization, are like the shallow water in canals.”
(TLC, Chapter 19)
Gurudeva, please allow me to continue to attempt to serve you, so I may become purified and one day be qualified to be your disciple.
Please bless me with just one drop of faith in Krsna’s holy name.
Eternally indebted,
Your aspiring disciple,
Gadai Gauranga dasa.
Please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you on this divine day of your appearance.
I was contemplating the impossible task of how to offer you words of praise and glorification this year. Needless to say, it’s beyond my power to do so. One thing I did realize is that you are an overqualified guru and I am an under qualified disciple.
For there to be proper transmission of transcendental knowledge, not just the speaker, but the hearer also needs to be qualified. So in attempting to muster some words together, I thought that this year instead of focusing on your over qualification, which many of your disciples will be attempting to extol, I’d like to attempt to become more qualified to receive your abundant mercy.
You are an outreach hero, especially in the Western countries where the challenge is even greater. You so eloquently present the essence of Krishna consciousness, stressing the mercy of Lord Caitanya again and again
“Vaisnavas don’t live for themselves; they live to give Krsna to others. That’s what it means to follow Lord Caitanya.”
Bhagavatam Class, Gaura Purnima 2013
In light of this, I have recently been reading Teachings of Lord Caitanya and was immensely inspired. Here is a perfect disciple. The Lord Himself is teaching how to fully surrender to the spiritual master. So, by sharing some meditations on Lord Caitanya, in the role of a perfect disciple, I hope to invoke your mercy. Please, may you bless me with even an insignificant fraction of His submissiveness, so I may become even to the slightest degree, qualified to serve you.
When Lord Caitanya was asked by Prakasananda Sarasvati, the leader of the Mayavadi sannyasis why he was chanting and dancing like a sentimentalist, instead of studying the Vedanta, he exemplified his unflinching faith in his Gurudeva by the following reply.
“My dear sir,” Lord Caitanya replied, “My spiritual master considered Me a great fool. Therefore he has more or less punished Me by saying that because I am such a fool I have no capacity to study the Vedānta. So he kindly gave Me the chanting of Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. My spiritual master told Me, ‘Just go on chanting this Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra; it will make You all-perfect.’”
(TLC, Chapter 18)
Lord Caitanya also displayed that he was not a blind follower. The sastric evidence given by His spiritual master convinced Him.
“Lord Caitanya also told Prakāśānanda Sarasvatī, “In order to convince Me about this essential fact of Vedic knowledge, My spiritual master has taught Me a verse from the Bṛhan-nāradīya Purāṇa (38.126). Harer nāma harer nāma harer nāmaiva kevalam/ kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva nāsty eva gatir anyathā: “In this age of quarrel and hypocrisy, the only means of deliverance is the chanting of the holy name of the Lord. There is no other way. There is no other way. There is no other way.””
(TLC, Chapter 18)
When Lord Caitanya followed His spiritual masters order sincerely, and, in due course, become mad in love for Krsna, He continued to approach His Guru for further guidance, highlighting the eternality of the relationship. A disciple will forever take guidance.
“Lord Caitanya then told Prakāśānanda Sarasvatī that because He received the order from His spiritual master He was constantly chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. “As a result of this chanting,” the Lord said, “I sometimes become very impatient and cannot restrain Myself from dancing and laughing or crying and singing. Indeed, I become just like a madman. When I first wondered whether I had become mad by chanting this Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare, I approached My spiritual master and informed him that I had gone mad by chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. Thus I asked him what was My actual position.”
(TLC, Chapter 18)
Lord Caitanya ultimately pleased His spiritual master by his submissive and sincere service attitude.
“Lord Caitanya said that His spiritual master told Him: “It is very good that You have attained such a perfectional stage of love of Godhead. Because of Your attainment, I am very much obliged to You.” The father becomes enlivened when he sees his son advance beyond himself. Similarly, the spiritual master takes more pleasure in seeing his disciple advance than in advancing himself. Thus Lord Caitanya’s spiritual master blessed Him, telling Him: “Dance, sing, propagate this saṅkīrtana movement and, by instructing people about Kṛṣṇa, try to deliver them from nescience.”
(TLC, Chapter 19)
Finally, Lord Caitanya re-iterated his determination to always follow His spiritual masters instructions with full faith.
“Lord Caitanya further informed Prakāśānanda Sarasvatī: “Because I have full faith in My spiritual master’s words, I always engage in chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare. I do not know how I have become just like a madman, but I believe the name of Kṛṣṇa has induced Me. I have realized that the transcendental pleasure derived from chanting Hare Kṛṣṇa, Hare Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Kṛṣṇa, Hare Hare/ Hare Rāma, Hare Rāma, Rāma Rāma, Hare Hare is just like an ocean, in comparison to which all other pleasures, including the pleasure of impersonal realization, are like the shallow water in canals.”
(TLC, Chapter 19)
Gurudeva, please allow me to continue to attempt to serve you, so I may become purified and one day be qualified to be your disciple.
Please bless me with just one drop of faith in Krsna’s holy name.
Eternally indebted,
Your aspiring disciple,
Gadai Gauranga dasa.
Gaura Kishore Dasa
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In todays society we see so much polarisation, so many persons clamouring for space on the information super highway. We have a plethora of pseudo spiritualists all proclaiming their panacea for the world. It would seem that this disease has also creeped into our own family of devotees, our tendency to forget the basics coupled with the erosion of faith in authority has left us vunerable. Yet through it all you constantly remain true to the cause and steady in your course, always reminding us that the true solutions will only be found in Srila Prabhupadas books. Example is better than precept so the saying goes and your example is clear for all to see. Your expertise in navigating the most divisive issues within our society as well as helping to diffuse our own individual warped sense of reality shows how by regulalry reading and imbibing Srila Prabhupada's instructions we can all continue to mature and grow in our spritual identities. How does one replay such love, we understand its an impossible task, yet I will continue to strive in following your footsteps and in this way remain part of Srila Prabupada eternal familiy. The special occasion of your vyasa puja helps to solidify this endeavour and to remind me of how much you have done and continue to do for others.
Your servant
Gaura Kishore dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In todays society we see so much polarisation, so many persons clamouring for space on the information super highway. We have a plethora of pseudo spiritualists all proclaiming their panacea for the world. It would seem that this disease has also creeped into our own family of devotees, our tendency to forget the basics coupled with the erosion of faith in authority has left us vunerable. Yet through it all you constantly remain true to the cause and steady in your course, always reminding us that the true solutions will only be found in Srila Prabhupadas books. Example is better than precept so the saying goes and your example is clear for all to see. Your expertise in navigating the most divisive issues within our society as well as helping to diffuse our own individual warped sense of reality shows how by regulalry reading and imbibing Srila Prabhupada's instructions we can all continue to mature and grow in our spritual identities. How does one replay such love, we understand its an impossible task, yet I will continue to strive in following your footsteps and in this way remain part of Srila Prabupada eternal familiy. The special occasion of your vyasa puja helps to solidify this endeavour and to remind me of how much you have done and continue to do for others.
Your servant
Gaura Kishore dasa
Gaura Nataraj das
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisancess, all glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Guru Maharaj, I am a great fool. I am a fool because I haven't taken advantage of your instructions properly. I am a fool because somehow I thought this material world was a reasonable place to live. I remember long time ago hearing from one of your lectures, you saying that one must not loiter in this material world. Back then I honestly thought that that statement didn't apply to me. I thought it was only for those with bad karma. Instead I foolishly thought that for the "pious" egocentric souls like myself, the material world wasn't such a bad place. Today maybe 4 years later I am writing this offering in a poverty stricken condition. Completely frightened of the material world and without a clear vision of what to do materially speaking. After a few constant hits, Krishna is teaching me that this is not a good place to be.
I honestly considered this to be Krishna's way of showing he really cares about me and that he likes me. However I am now petrified of the extend of Mayas power. It almost seems as if there is no limit to how low one can fall into a miserable condition.
However in this well of darkness, there have been a few sparks of light here and there. Gokulesvari is an amazing person and wife. She is way better placed in the mood of goodness than myself and she is constantly praying for an opportunity to completely surrender to Krishna. In the same way Nitai now two years old is a devotee by birth. He likes to play mridangam, offer obeisances to the deity and to prabhupada. He is very sweet and caring with both his mother and father.
In our 7 month stay in Chile, Gokulesvari distributed hundreds of books at several universities and colleges in Santiago. Never before had devotees done massive university book distribution in Santiago until Gokulesvari showed up and led a group of sankirtan female devotees into many universities in Santiago. It was such the success that by the end of our stay in Chile there were no longer books in stock in Chile.
On my side I was being ripped off of my silly material fantasies for status and career. I thought that by moving to Chile I would easily escape my karma. I somehow thought there things would be different. Ignoring your advice I went ahead and try to experience things myself and try to evade my karma.
Dear Guru Maharaj, you being Krishna's representative I know you have trascendental intelligence and already know everything that happened to me, is happening and will happen to me. Please give Gokulesvari, Nitai and me your blessings so we can now for once and for all truly surrender at your lotus feet.
Thank you for being there for us as a loving spiritual father and for tolerating our ignorance and lack of judgment.
Hoping to have the opportunity to serve you. Your servants,
Gokulesvari d.d, Nitai and Gaura Nataraj das. Hare Krishna.
Please accept my humble obeisancess, all glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Guru Maharaj, I am a great fool. I am a fool because I haven't taken advantage of your instructions properly. I am a fool because somehow I thought this material world was a reasonable place to live. I remember long time ago hearing from one of your lectures, you saying that one must not loiter in this material world. Back then I honestly thought that that statement didn't apply to me. I thought it was only for those with bad karma. Instead I foolishly thought that for the "pious" egocentric souls like myself, the material world wasn't such a bad place. Today maybe 4 years later I am writing this offering in a poverty stricken condition. Completely frightened of the material world and without a clear vision of what to do materially speaking. After a few constant hits, Krishna is teaching me that this is not a good place to be.
I honestly considered this to be Krishna's way of showing he really cares about me and that he likes me. However I am now petrified of the extend of Mayas power. It almost seems as if there is no limit to how low one can fall into a miserable condition.
However in this well of darkness, there have been a few sparks of light here and there. Gokulesvari is an amazing person and wife. She is way better placed in the mood of goodness than myself and she is constantly praying for an opportunity to completely surrender to Krishna. In the same way Nitai now two years old is a devotee by birth. He likes to play mridangam, offer obeisances to the deity and to prabhupada. He is very sweet and caring with both his mother and father.
In our 7 month stay in Chile, Gokulesvari distributed hundreds of books at several universities and colleges in Santiago. Never before had devotees done massive university book distribution in Santiago until Gokulesvari showed up and led a group of sankirtan female devotees into many universities in Santiago. It was such the success that by the end of our stay in Chile there were no longer books in stock in Chile.
On my side I was being ripped off of my silly material fantasies for status and career. I thought that by moving to Chile I would easily escape my karma. I somehow thought there things would be different. Ignoring your advice I went ahead and try to experience things myself and try to evade my karma.
Dear Guru Maharaj, you being Krishna's representative I know you have trascendental intelligence and already know everything that happened to me, is happening and will happen to me. Please give Gokulesvari, Nitai and me your blessings so we can now for once and for all truly surrender at your lotus feet.
Thank you for being there for us as a loving spiritual father and for tolerating our ignorance and lack of judgment.
Hoping to have the opportunity to serve you. Your servants,
Gokulesvari d.d, Nitai and Gaura Nataraj das. Hare Krishna.
Gaura Prema das, Nitai Prema dd, and Krishna Prema das
Dearest Gurudev,
Please accept our humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Every morning when we offer our prayers to the Pancha Tattva, we are reminded of our good fortune that you are our direct link to Them. It is because of your sacrifice to take on such a responsible position to serve Srila Prabhupada's mission to distribute Lord Chaitanya's message, that we are able to get a glimpse into the devotional lifestyle of Krishna Consciousness.
We pray at the lotus feet of the Pancha Tattva that They always take care of your health and provide you with joy and every success in your endeavors.
Your humble servants,
Gaura Prema das, Nitai Prema dd, and Krishna Prema das
Please accept our humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Every morning when we offer our prayers to the Pancha Tattva, we are reminded of our good fortune that you are our direct link to Them. It is because of your sacrifice to take on such a responsible position to serve Srila Prabhupada's mission to distribute Lord Chaitanya's message, that we are able to get a glimpse into the devotional lifestyle of Krishna Consciousness.
We pray at the lotus feet of the Pancha Tattva that They always take care of your health and provide you with joy and every success in your endeavors.
Your humble servants,
Gaura Prema das, Nitai Prema dd, and Krishna Prema das
Gaura-arati dd
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you, my dear spiritual master, on this most blessed day of your appearance in this world!
Only by the presence and association of impeccable saints like you Gurudeva, who walk the earth solely to enlighten, can the real purpose of the universe and each jiva’s authentic life, be realised.
I can still so clearly remember the moment, over 15 years ago, that I first met you. That day has surely been marked most auspicious in this little jiva’s history, it was the beginning of my life, in the real sense of the term.
You so expertly channeled my energy through the passion of my 20’s, engaging me in the mission of Lord Caitanya. What higher benediction could I have wished for? Sure, I wasn’t a full time angel, but whenever my consciousness was fixated in a way that would not serve my highest good, you reminded me of my real duty and my real love in life. Is there higher love than this? Now in my mid 30’s with a husband and child to care for, life is externally quite different! But from the training and foundations you’ve given me, and because of the web service you've entrusted me, internally life is somewhat the same. How to best serve Krishna at any given moment is the question to which my actions are meant answer. I can’t thank you enough for giving me this opportunity. The chance for devotional service and the association of serious devotees, the only things worth striving and struggling for in this world.
How did I deserve this benediction? Well we know the answer to that - I didn’t! It is only by your inconceivable causeless mercy Gurudeva.
You carry so much responsibility, GBC, farm projects, BBT, you’re increasing the urban outreach globally, you care for so many dependents, you inspire countless newcomers to bhakti, you have demands coming at you left right and centre, you’re relentlessly traveling, and somehow you do it all with the coolest head, never rushing or flustered, appearing like a white swan gliding elegantly and effortlessly across a pristine lake. And somehow you still have time for little me. And not just me, but whomever takes shelter of you gets the personal attention and prescription they need to develop in bhakti.
By your being 100% sold out to your spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, and relentlessly serving his mission, in ALL kinds of situations, your qualities and activities have become super empowered, and are now sung about all over the world.
Thank you for bringing the light of transcendental knowledge to this otherwise destitute world Gurudeva. And thank you for allowing me to render a humble personal service to you, this connection is my heart and soul. On this auspicious day of your appearance, I can only pray for the strength to hold on tight to all you have given me, to make the most it, and to be of some use in your service. I owe you everything, because you have given me everything, so I’m eternally and gratefully indebted.
Your servant,
Gaura-arati dd
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you, my dear spiritual master, on this most blessed day of your appearance in this world!
Only by the presence and association of impeccable saints like you Gurudeva, who walk the earth solely to enlighten, can the real purpose of the universe and each jiva’s authentic life, be realised.
I can still so clearly remember the moment, over 15 years ago, that I first met you. That day has surely been marked most auspicious in this little jiva’s history, it was the beginning of my life, in the real sense of the term.
You so expertly channeled my energy through the passion of my 20’s, engaging me in the mission of Lord Caitanya. What higher benediction could I have wished for? Sure, I wasn’t a full time angel, but whenever my consciousness was fixated in a way that would not serve my highest good, you reminded me of my real duty and my real love in life. Is there higher love than this? Now in my mid 30’s with a husband and child to care for, life is externally quite different! But from the training and foundations you’ve given me, and because of the web service you've entrusted me, internally life is somewhat the same. How to best serve Krishna at any given moment is the question to which my actions are meant answer. I can’t thank you enough for giving me this opportunity. The chance for devotional service and the association of serious devotees, the only things worth striving and struggling for in this world.
How did I deserve this benediction? Well we know the answer to that - I didn’t! It is only by your inconceivable causeless mercy Gurudeva.
You carry so much responsibility, GBC, farm projects, BBT, you’re increasing the urban outreach globally, you care for so many dependents, you inspire countless newcomers to bhakti, you have demands coming at you left right and centre, you’re relentlessly traveling, and somehow you do it all with the coolest head, never rushing or flustered, appearing like a white swan gliding elegantly and effortlessly across a pristine lake. And somehow you still have time for little me. And not just me, but whomever takes shelter of you gets the personal attention and prescription they need to develop in bhakti.
By your being 100% sold out to your spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, and relentlessly serving his mission, in ALL kinds of situations, your qualities and activities have become super empowered, and are now sung about all over the world.
Thank you for bringing the light of transcendental knowledge to this otherwise destitute world Gurudeva. And thank you for allowing me to render a humble personal service to you, this connection is my heart and soul. On this auspicious day of your appearance, I can only pray for the strength to hold on tight to all you have given me, to make the most it, and to be of some use in your service. I owe you everything, because you have given me everything, so I’m eternally and gratefully indebted.
Your servant,
Gaura-arati dd
Gaura-bhumi Devi Dasi
Dear Srila Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this most blessed day
I want to write something profound. Impressive and deep in a way that shows how much advancement I have made. But this isn’t the case. I am still a fledgling in the Bhakti lifestyle, still hesitating to dip my toes into the pool of spiritual enjoyment due to my false ego. But I am here to stay and your care and guidance keeps me steady in practice. I in no way deserve your compassion, but you freely and willing give it, none the less. I am deeply humbled and honoured to be guided by you and may this offering show but a drop of that gratefulness.
svasty astu viśvasya khalaḥ prasīdatāṁ
dhyāyantu bhūtāni śivaṁ mitho dhiyā
manaś ca bhadraṁ bhajatād adhokṣaje
āveśyatāṁ no matir apy ahaitukī
May there be good fortune throughout the universe, and may all envious persons be pacified. May all living entities become calm by practicing bhakti-yoga, for by accepting devotional service they will think of each other's welfare. Therefore let us all engage in the service of the supreme transcendence, Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa, and always remain absorbed in thought of Him. (SB 5.18.9)
This prayer by the residents of Jambudvipa often reminds me of you. In the purport, Srila Prabhupada describes the behaviour of a typical vaisnava, someone who always considers the welfare of the entire universe, someone who prays not for himself, but for others – the gentle, envious and mischievous. The material world is a dangerous place, full of envious people. And yet you continue on, traveling and preaching the message of Lord Caitanya without any hint of self-absorption or desire for recognition. All you care about is the welfare of other entities and awakening a true appreciation for the Absolute Truth within them. Only a change of heart can satisfy an envious soul – Krsna Consciousness is the only way to do this. This is your life mission. Practicing the ideal welfare system and remaining fixed on the lotus feet of the Absolute Truth. By the mercy of Adhoksaja, you fan the spark of spiritual perception within the heart of every entity you meet.
You know my heart and soul. Please know how grateful I am to have your guidance, care and love. My reciprocity is far from perfect but one day by your mercy I will get there.
My eternal prayer - By your mercy, may I cross over the mountain of material illusion and one day begin to eloquently glorify the Absolute Truth and His devotees. May I always remain a humble and foolish servant before my Spiritual master, ever-eager to learn more about Krishna.
Aspiring to be a servant
Forever may I remain
Your daughter
Gaura-bhumi Devi Dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this most blessed day
I want to write something profound. Impressive and deep in a way that shows how much advancement I have made. But this isn’t the case. I am still a fledgling in the Bhakti lifestyle, still hesitating to dip my toes into the pool of spiritual enjoyment due to my false ego. But I am here to stay and your care and guidance keeps me steady in practice. I in no way deserve your compassion, but you freely and willing give it, none the less. I am deeply humbled and honoured to be guided by you and may this offering show but a drop of that gratefulness.
svasty astu viśvasya khalaḥ prasīdatāṁ
dhyāyantu bhūtāni śivaṁ mitho dhiyā
manaś ca bhadraṁ bhajatād adhokṣaje
āveśyatāṁ no matir apy ahaitukī
May there be good fortune throughout the universe, and may all envious persons be pacified. May all living entities become calm by practicing bhakti-yoga, for by accepting devotional service they will think of each other's welfare. Therefore let us all engage in the service of the supreme transcendence, Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa, and always remain absorbed in thought of Him. (SB 5.18.9)
This prayer by the residents of Jambudvipa often reminds me of you. In the purport, Srila Prabhupada describes the behaviour of a typical vaisnava, someone who always considers the welfare of the entire universe, someone who prays not for himself, but for others – the gentle, envious and mischievous. The material world is a dangerous place, full of envious people. And yet you continue on, traveling and preaching the message of Lord Caitanya without any hint of self-absorption or desire for recognition. All you care about is the welfare of other entities and awakening a true appreciation for the Absolute Truth within them. Only a change of heart can satisfy an envious soul – Krsna Consciousness is the only way to do this. This is your life mission. Practicing the ideal welfare system and remaining fixed on the lotus feet of the Absolute Truth. By the mercy of Adhoksaja, you fan the spark of spiritual perception within the heart of every entity you meet.
You know my heart and soul. Please know how grateful I am to have your guidance, care and love. My reciprocity is far from perfect but one day by your mercy I will get there.
My eternal prayer - By your mercy, may I cross over the mountain of material illusion and one day begin to eloquently glorify the Absolute Truth and His devotees. May I always remain a humble and foolish servant before my Spiritual master, ever-eager to learn more about Krishna.
Aspiring to be a servant
Forever may I remain
Your daughter
Gaura-bhumi Devi Dasi
Gauranga Prema das
Dear Devamrita Swami
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srrila Prabhupada, and all glories to you on this auspicious day.
Recently in my travels through Australia, trapped with my family who would rather talk about their shopping than Krishna, I read this wonderful purport:
All the devotees connected with the Krishna consciousness movement must read all the books that have been translated (the Caitanya-caritamrita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita and others); otherwise, after some time, they will simply eat, sleep and fall down from their position. Thus they will miss the opportunity to attain an eternal, blissful life of transcendental pleasure.
CC Mad 25.278p
This reminded me of how you always so strongly stressed reading Srila Prabhupadas books that even your married disciple can declare they have read Srimad Bhagavatam, Caitanya Caritamrita. My little travelling has shown this is not always the case, even for brahmacaris.
Thank you for letting me be apart of the reading culture you established. Primarily, thank you for establishing such a culture, of love to read the books, and love to distribute the books to others. This foundation you have provided me will stablise my bhakti in times of difficulty.
Always in your debt, your servant
Gauranga Prema das
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srrila Prabhupada, and all glories to you on this auspicious day.
Recently in my travels through Australia, trapped with my family who would rather talk about their shopping than Krishna, I read this wonderful purport:
All the devotees connected with the Krishna consciousness movement must read all the books that have been translated (the Caitanya-caritamrita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita and others); otherwise, after some time, they will simply eat, sleep and fall down from their position. Thus they will miss the opportunity to attain an eternal, blissful life of transcendental pleasure.
CC Mad 25.278p
This reminded me of how you always so strongly stressed reading Srila Prabhupadas books that even your married disciple can declare they have read Srimad Bhagavatam, Caitanya Caritamrita. My little travelling has shown this is not always the case, even for brahmacaris.
Thank you for letting me be apart of the reading culture you established. Primarily, thank you for establishing such a culture, of love to read the books, and love to distribute the books to others. This foundation you have provided me will stablise my bhakti in times of difficulty.
Always in your debt, your servant
Gauranga Prema das
Gaurangachandra Das
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to Gurudev
Dear Gurudev,
Each time when we see you, somehow you will figure out the general dynamics in family relationship, community association and will give advices accordingly. It is only by the mercy of Krishna we are getting this and we are very grateful to you for those ever lasting words Gurudev.
Reading Srila Prabhpada books regularly is the only thing you discussed with me in detail when I took shelter in you and I sincerely see how much spiritual maturity it gives especially when you read it with proper consciousness and realization.
On this wonderful and auspicious day of your Vyasa puja, I sincerely pray to Krishna that you live a long life with good health and lots of strength and support in your tireless mission of preaching Krishna Consciousness.
Your servants,
Gaurangachandra das, Chandrakala and Swethaa
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to Gurudev
Dear Gurudev,
Each time when we see you, somehow you will figure out the general dynamics in family relationship, community association and will give advices accordingly. It is only by the mercy of Krishna we are getting this and we are very grateful to you for those ever lasting words Gurudev.
Reading Srila Prabhpada books regularly is the only thing you discussed with me in detail when I took shelter in you and I sincerely see how much spiritual maturity it gives especially when you read it with proper consciousness and realization.
On this wonderful and auspicious day of your Vyasa puja, I sincerely pray to Krishna that you live a long life with good health and lots of strength and support in your tireless mission of preaching Krishna Consciousness.
Your servants,
Gaurangachandra das, Chandrakala and Swethaa
Girish Dixit
Hare Krishna ,
My Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to His Devine Grace Srila Prabhupada. All glories to Guru and Gauranga.
I have sincere desire to serve you and seek your blessings and guidance. I want to learn the ancient knowledge of the absolute truth from you.
You have a mesmerising personality that anyone who come in contact becomes your follower.
When I attended your home program in Truganina, I was immersed in Krishna prema.
The very first time when we came to seek your shelter, we were happy because the way you talked to us gave an assurance that you will be our caretaker from hereafter.
Thank you Guru Maharaj for your mercy,
Learning to be humble
Yours ever
Girish, Aarti and Achintya Nitai
My Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to His Devine Grace Srila Prabhupada. All glories to Guru and Gauranga.
I have sincere desire to serve you and seek your blessings and guidance. I want to learn the ancient knowledge of the absolute truth from you.
You have a mesmerising personality that anyone who come in contact becomes your follower.
When I attended your home program in Truganina, I was immersed in Krishna prema.
The very first time when we came to seek your shelter, we were happy because the way you talked to us gave an assurance that you will be our caretaker from hereafter.
Thank you Guru Maharaj for your mercy,
Learning to be humble
Yours ever
Girish, Aarti and Achintya Nitai
Giselle
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you on your auspicious appearance day in this world!
Recently, to my own surprise, I managed to read and slightly understand the introduction and first chapter of your book 'Searching for Vedic India' (after my daily dose of Prabhupada's books of course!). I had to read each sentence three times but I was able to glimpse a little of your genius. You so tactfully and expertly rip the blindfold of material science off the reader. "Humanity at large is suffering", you call, "the planet is suffering, all species are suffering and it's all under our own gun, in the illusion of advancement." You expertly deprogram, within one short chapter, the conditioning of a lifetime from the brains of whoever is fortunate enough to come across this book, and you prepare the readers' consciousness for hearing from The Knower of the Vedas, Krishna. What could be more genius? Who grants such a favour? Only a magnanimous soul such as yourself.
Then there is the book distributors' missile - 'Hiding in Unnatural Happiness'. What a powerful book Gurudeva! For your pleasure here are two stories about this book from my travels on book distribution this year:
I was in Kaiti Mall, a lower socio-economic area of Gisborne. I stopped two girls, about 20 years of age. When I showed your book one of them gasped and put her hands to her mouth. "That!", she pointed to the cover artwork and gestured to her friend, "It's like what we were just talking about!" She told me how they had been discussing that people in this world wear a mask to cover their true identity, and the artwork combined with the title of your book perfectly illustrated her sentiments. She happily gave a big donation and took home a stack of Prabhupada's books and your book!
Another time I was in a Taradale, a small upper-middle-class area in Napier. It had been FREEZING cold for the past week and I was feeling the austerity. I was basically dressed to go skiing down a mountain, getting rejected left, right and centre and feeling that - even if people take these books they won't read them, and even if they read them they won't understand. Due to my lack of realisation this is something I often struggle with when I'm mental on book distribution. But Krishna was about to show me the opposite! I stopped a young girl at a pedestrian crossing and she was told me she was waiting for a friend so sorry she didn't have time to talk. Somehow I quickly presented your book and asked for a donation. The girl politely said she had no money on her but just then her friend showed up! The friend was far more receptive and easily gave $5 for the book. They left and went into a coffee shop. Half an hour later they came out in a happy mood and smiled at me, "Thanks for the book! We were reading it over brunch. It makes so much sense!" Baffled, I continued my book distribution with fresh and raw encouragement from Krishna.
Thank you for all of your encouragement and association Gurudeva. You've infused me with your fire! I recently heard your voice in my dream - you were giving military commands. I want to remain here in your army and serve you forever. I have no doubt of your mercy if I remain here and carry out your instructions. The weapon you are fighting with - pure love - is the most powerful force in all experience.
I recently read about Lord Caitanya's transcendental adventures in Caitanya Caritamrita Antya Lila. These most beautiful pasttimes were like liquid gold to my ears. There is such an intimacy and abundance of love in every pasttime between the Lord and His devotees. When Lord Caitanya mistakes a sand dune for Govardhana Hill and His devotees run after Him, I stared at the painting of the Lord falling on the sand dune and felt like crying. When the Lord holds kirtan parties that last hours and hours long until the devotees can no longer dance, I read this and felt ecstatic! I ask myself, what is it I'm tasting? I am only a new devotee. This is all your mercy, more than I know.
By the weapon of love you have captured me, Gurudeva. In an early darshan you said to me "Krishna knows how to invoke your love". I pondered this point for a week, waiting to see what Krishna would do to invoke my love - as if some roses, addressed to me, were going to fall from the sky and land in my lap. This shows my lack of intelligence and deserving mentality - Krishna owes me something! In the meantime, by your transcendental intelligence you plugged me in to the powerhouse and engaged me in devotional service. Thank you for taking my energy and utilising it for His pleasure. Please by some transcendental trick take more! Please take it all! Please take it all! Please take it all!! Otherwise I am such a fool I will misuse it.
The world of devotional service is so fresh and exciting. You infused me with your fire to serve Krishna. I am very grateful to be feeling alive and enthusiastic in devotional service, and this is again all by your mercy.
Please help me to understand how to serve you through the devotees and how to give Krishna to others.
Aspiring to remain forever at your service,
Giselle
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you on your auspicious appearance day in this world!
Recently, to my own surprise, I managed to read and slightly understand the introduction and first chapter of your book 'Searching for Vedic India' (after my daily dose of Prabhupada's books of course!). I had to read each sentence three times but I was able to glimpse a little of your genius. You so tactfully and expertly rip the blindfold of material science off the reader. "Humanity at large is suffering", you call, "the planet is suffering, all species are suffering and it's all under our own gun, in the illusion of advancement." You expertly deprogram, within one short chapter, the conditioning of a lifetime from the brains of whoever is fortunate enough to come across this book, and you prepare the readers' consciousness for hearing from The Knower of the Vedas, Krishna. What could be more genius? Who grants such a favour? Only a magnanimous soul such as yourself.
Then there is the book distributors' missile - 'Hiding in Unnatural Happiness'. What a powerful book Gurudeva! For your pleasure here are two stories about this book from my travels on book distribution this year:
I was in Kaiti Mall, a lower socio-economic area of Gisborne. I stopped two girls, about 20 years of age. When I showed your book one of them gasped and put her hands to her mouth. "That!", she pointed to the cover artwork and gestured to her friend, "It's like what we were just talking about!" She told me how they had been discussing that people in this world wear a mask to cover their true identity, and the artwork combined with the title of your book perfectly illustrated her sentiments. She happily gave a big donation and took home a stack of Prabhupada's books and your book!
Another time I was in a Taradale, a small upper-middle-class area in Napier. It had been FREEZING cold for the past week and I was feeling the austerity. I was basically dressed to go skiing down a mountain, getting rejected left, right and centre and feeling that - even if people take these books they won't read them, and even if they read them they won't understand. Due to my lack of realisation this is something I often struggle with when I'm mental on book distribution. But Krishna was about to show me the opposite! I stopped a young girl at a pedestrian crossing and she was told me she was waiting for a friend so sorry she didn't have time to talk. Somehow I quickly presented your book and asked for a donation. The girl politely said she had no money on her but just then her friend showed up! The friend was far more receptive and easily gave $5 for the book. They left and went into a coffee shop. Half an hour later they came out in a happy mood and smiled at me, "Thanks for the book! We were reading it over brunch. It makes so much sense!" Baffled, I continued my book distribution with fresh and raw encouragement from Krishna.
Thank you for all of your encouragement and association Gurudeva. You've infused me with your fire! I recently heard your voice in my dream - you were giving military commands. I want to remain here in your army and serve you forever. I have no doubt of your mercy if I remain here and carry out your instructions. The weapon you are fighting with - pure love - is the most powerful force in all experience.
I recently read about Lord Caitanya's transcendental adventures in Caitanya Caritamrita Antya Lila. These most beautiful pasttimes were like liquid gold to my ears. There is such an intimacy and abundance of love in every pasttime between the Lord and His devotees. When Lord Caitanya mistakes a sand dune for Govardhana Hill and His devotees run after Him, I stared at the painting of the Lord falling on the sand dune and felt like crying. When the Lord holds kirtan parties that last hours and hours long until the devotees can no longer dance, I read this and felt ecstatic! I ask myself, what is it I'm tasting? I am only a new devotee. This is all your mercy, more than I know.
By the weapon of love you have captured me, Gurudeva. In an early darshan you said to me "Krishna knows how to invoke your love". I pondered this point for a week, waiting to see what Krishna would do to invoke my love - as if some roses, addressed to me, were going to fall from the sky and land in my lap. This shows my lack of intelligence and deserving mentality - Krishna owes me something! In the meantime, by your transcendental intelligence you plugged me in to the powerhouse and engaged me in devotional service. Thank you for taking my energy and utilising it for His pleasure. Please by some transcendental trick take more! Please take it all! Please take it all! Please take it all!! Otherwise I am such a fool I will misuse it.
The world of devotional service is so fresh and exciting. You infused me with your fire to serve Krishna. I am very grateful to be feeling alive and enthusiastic in devotional service, and this is again all by your mercy.
Please help me to understand how to serve you through the devotees and how to give Krishna to others.
Aspiring to remain forever at your service,
Giselle
Gita-Govinda devi dasi
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my most humble obesiences, All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!!
Dearest gurudev, on this auspicious day of your appearance I feel so grateful, thankful, and indebted to you for your constant mercy, guidance, and care. And I feel very undeserving of all the mercy you have showered upon me. In SB 4.24.47, Srila Prabhupada writes that knowledge of Krishna is such a great gift that it is impossible to repay the benefactor. A person who tries to repay the spiritual master or teacher of the transcendental message of Krishna becomes a laughingstock just like a joker because it is not possible to repay such a debt. This is how I feel Gurudev, that I am so unqualified and insignificant, and yet you have showered your causeless mercy on me. And the debt I feel to you is so great that I can’t endeavor to ever repay it, but I can only keep trying to serve you in some small way even though I may stumble due to my own ignorance.
Gurudev, thank you for mercifully initiating me this year. In SB 4.21.31 it says that “as Krishna takes away all the sinful reactions of a person immediately upon his surrender unto Him, similarly the external manifestation of Krsna, the representative of Krsna who acts as the mercy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, takes all the resultant actions of the sinful life of the disciple immediately after the disciple’s initiation. Thus if the disciple follows the principles instructed by the spiritual master, he remains purified and is not contaminated by the material infection.” Gurudev, my only endeavor and purpose in life is to try and serve you. You are my worshipable Deity and your instructions are my life and soul. My only goal in life is to please you and make you proud of your spiritual daughter. Everything I do and every decision I make is only measured to the degree in which it will be pleasing to you, which I endeavor to understand through the guidance of your senior disciples, like Mangal-Aarti devi dasi. The only real bliss and satisfaction I can experience is when I’m wholeheartedly engaged in your service with full absorption, and I pray that you will continue to be merciful to me and allow me to serve your lotus feet for my whole life and increase my sacrifice and surrender.
You have led us here in Philadelphia in such a personal way. You named our ashram “Titiksava karunika” and helped us by encouraging us to be merciful and tolerant with one another. There have been so many instances in my Krishna consciousness where you slashed my darkness of ignorance with the torchlight of knowledge, and rid me of my false pride and ego. I have no doubt that you are the mercy incarnation of Krishna, the external manifestation of Paramatma visible before our eyes. You are an all-encompassing shelter, and when I feel weak and helpless, I try to pray to you because I have faith that you will help me regardless of whether you’re physically present or not. There have been many instances where through praying to you I have experienced that you have forcibly shifted my consciousness and helped me to come back to the proper state.
Gurudev, you perfectly engage the whole spectrum of emotions in service to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya, and you have trained me to endeavor to do the same. Your preaching is like a razor-sharp edge that awakens me from my materialistic slumber of darkness. You write in Bhakti Bhava that, “No better activities exist than what we are doing in Krsna Consciousness. The richness of rendering service to Krsna is not about money or possessions, it's about the opulences of the heart. No matter what you do, if your heart is not satisfied, you won't think your life is worth much. How to be a proper egoist? Simply identify as Krsna's servant. When this perfect and true egoistical feeling sufficiently intensifies, it will force you to dance in ecstasy." Gurudev, by your mercy I have become enthusiastic in Krishna’s service and propagating the mission of Lord Caitanya. You always encourage us through your example and words that the highest platform of bliss will be achieved if we can put all personal agendas and selfish desires aside, and simply teach the science of Krishna wherever we go and to whoever we meet.
Gurudev your books are so dynamic and attractive. Your book, Hiding in Unnatural Happiness, appeals to absolutely everyone and cuts across all ages, ethnicities, and any other bodily concepts people may hold as everyone is on the pursuit of happiness. I have become addicted to distributing Hiding in Unnatural Happiness on the streets. Even though I always aim to distribute Bhagavad Gita, people are so genuinely and easily attracted to your book and feel they can easily relate to it. I can see that these people are receiving so much mercy by starting their spiritual life by reading the book you’ve written introducing them to Krishna Consciousness in such an expert way. By your words you are penetrating into the heart of the suffering person and injecting knowledge transcendental, which alone can extinguish the fire of material existence (SB 1.7.22).
Dear Gurudev, on this auspicious day of your appearance I feel so thankful and grateful to be under your expert shelter. The mentoring system that you’ve set up with your senior disciples allows us to constantly receive your instructions and mercy and revive our natural condition of being the servant of the servant of the servant of Krishna. I pray to always stay within the association of devotees, endeavoring to render selfless service to you, by your mercy.
Your spiritual daughter,
Gita-Govinda devi dasi
Please accept my most humble obesiences, All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!!
Dearest gurudev, on this auspicious day of your appearance I feel so grateful, thankful, and indebted to you for your constant mercy, guidance, and care. And I feel very undeserving of all the mercy you have showered upon me. In SB 4.24.47, Srila Prabhupada writes that knowledge of Krishna is such a great gift that it is impossible to repay the benefactor. A person who tries to repay the spiritual master or teacher of the transcendental message of Krishna becomes a laughingstock just like a joker because it is not possible to repay such a debt. This is how I feel Gurudev, that I am so unqualified and insignificant, and yet you have showered your causeless mercy on me. And the debt I feel to you is so great that I can’t endeavor to ever repay it, but I can only keep trying to serve you in some small way even though I may stumble due to my own ignorance.
Gurudev, thank you for mercifully initiating me this year. In SB 4.21.31 it says that “as Krishna takes away all the sinful reactions of a person immediately upon his surrender unto Him, similarly the external manifestation of Krsna, the representative of Krsna who acts as the mercy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, takes all the resultant actions of the sinful life of the disciple immediately after the disciple’s initiation. Thus if the disciple follows the principles instructed by the spiritual master, he remains purified and is not contaminated by the material infection.” Gurudev, my only endeavor and purpose in life is to try and serve you. You are my worshipable Deity and your instructions are my life and soul. My only goal in life is to please you and make you proud of your spiritual daughter. Everything I do and every decision I make is only measured to the degree in which it will be pleasing to you, which I endeavor to understand through the guidance of your senior disciples, like Mangal-Aarti devi dasi. The only real bliss and satisfaction I can experience is when I’m wholeheartedly engaged in your service with full absorption, and I pray that you will continue to be merciful to me and allow me to serve your lotus feet for my whole life and increase my sacrifice and surrender.
You have led us here in Philadelphia in such a personal way. You named our ashram “Titiksava karunika” and helped us by encouraging us to be merciful and tolerant with one another. There have been so many instances in my Krishna consciousness where you slashed my darkness of ignorance with the torchlight of knowledge, and rid me of my false pride and ego. I have no doubt that you are the mercy incarnation of Krishna, the external manifestation of Paramatma visible before our eyes. You are an all-encompassing shelter, and when I feel weak and helpless, I try to pray to you because I have faith that you will help me regardless of whether you’re physically present or not. There have been many instances where through praying to you I have experienced that you have forcibly shifted my consciousness and helped me to come back to the proper state.
Gurudev, you perfectly engage the whole spectrum of emotions in service to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya, and you have trained me to endeavor to do the same. Your preaching is like a razor-sharp edge that awakens me from my materialistic slumber of darkness. You write in Bhakti Bhava that, “No better activities exist than what we are doing in Krsna Consciousness. The richness of rendering service to Krsna is not about money or possessions, it's about the opulences of the heart. No matter what you do, if your heart is not satisfied, you won't think your life is worth much. How to be a proper egoist? Simply identify as Krsna's servant. When this perfect and true egoistical feeling sufficiently intensifies, it will force you to dance in ecstasy." Gurudev, by your mercy I have become enthusiastic in Krishna’s service and propagating the mission of Lord Caitanya. You always encourage us through your example and words that the highest platform of bliss will be achieved if we can put all personal agendas and selfish desires aside, and simply teach the science of Krishna wherever we go and to whoever we meet.
Gurudev your books are so dynamic and attractive. Your book, Hiding in Unnatural Happiness, appeals to absolutely everyone and cuts across all ages, ethnicities, and any other bodily concepts people may hold as everyone is on the pursuit of happiness. I have become addicted to distributing Hiding in Unnatural Happiness on the streets. Even though I always aim to distribute Bhagavad Gita, people are so genuinely and easily attracted to your book and feel they can easily relate to it. I can see that these people are receiving so much mercy by starting their spiritual life by reading the book you’ve written introducing them to Krishna Consciousness in such an expert way. By your words you are penetrating into the heart of the suffering person and injecting knowledge transcendental, which alone can extinguish the fire of material existence (SB 1.7.22).
Dear Gurudev, on this auspicious day of your appearance I feel so thankful and grateful to be under your expert shelter. The mentoring system that you’ve set up with your senior disciples allows us to constantly receive your instructions and mercy and revive our natural condition of being the servant of the servant of the servant of Krishna. I pray to always stay within the association of devotees, endeavoring to render selfless service to you, by your mercy.
Your spiritual daughter,
Gita-Govinda devi dasi
Gitavali devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisance. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you, my beloved spiritual master.
Every year, it takes a little time to figure out how to start this special offering to you. I'm not the most intellectual, spiritually advanced nor the best speaker nor am I very humble as I usually end up talking about myself, but I will try to speak from my heart.
Looking around this beautiful temple room, filled with devotees, well-wishers and more, I'm filled with joy, and gratitude. So many wonderful personalities are here together to celebrate and glorify you, our most beloved guide and master. How fortunate we are that you are here with us today in the flesh, on this special occasion.
Gurudeva, you are a master, a real genuine guru, the top-most life coach and you demonstrate so many qualities everywhere you go, all over the world. There's so much I could elaborate on your qualities but I will focus on one; "your deep compassion for everyone."
There is so much to do in Lord Caitanya's movement. But you Gurudeva, are doing so much. You are so expert at compassionately and directly relating this profound philosophy and wisdom to everyday people. People who come from such different cultural backgrounds, all over the world. This particular skill, I think is quite rare these days. We live in a world where politics, greed, economic prosperity is on the top of the list, meanwhile the planet, Mother Bhūmi is suffering, some countries are right now experiencing Hell on earth with war, genocide, lack of food, shelter, safety or even clean water. In the West, we take so much for granted. We think we're so fortunate and we are to some degree but our disease is mental and emotional. We have lost our ability to connect to one another. The more technology has raised the possibility to connect, the more superficiality and hard-heartedness has prevailed. We don't know what we need and we don't know how to relate to one another in a very kind way. However Guru Maharaja, you know that from talking to people from all walks of life, what people need the most right, you are aware that in the West, the young and old are searching after good, lasting, fulfilling relationships and ultimately their deepest need is to mend their broken relationship with our dear Krishna.
This is why you travel so much. I understand now. The compassion you have, the deep need to help these lost souls and bring them back to the shelter of the Lord's lotus feet. I do get it. As much as I'd like you to take care of your body and slow down, deep down, I understand why you do what you do. You are helping and caring personally and engaging your disciples like us to save as many people as possible. It's happening right now. By your grace, this room is now pretty full compared to only 10 years ago. And this is only little New Zealand.
Gurudeva, you are the most unselfish person I've ever met. The more my years go by in Krishna consciousness, the more I admire you, the more I can see you with a more tender heart. The more I feel like I really, wholeheartedly love you. I am eternally grateful for what you've given me as well as for everything you've ever done for me. The care and the time that you give are very much appreciated. I thank you for satisfying my need for some appreciation from time to time. Like, in our recent conversation at the Loft, you filled my heart with renewed strength and gave me exactly what I needed to hear. I feel determined to continue doing what I'm doing, knowing that it's pleasing you. Thank you so much for your kindness and affection, as well as for your encouragement that I seek. Hare Krishna.
Your eternally grateful servant,
Gitavali devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisance. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you, my beloved spiritual master.
Every year, it takes a little time to figure out how to start this special offering to you. I'm not the most intellectual, spiritually advanced nor the best speaker nor am I very humble as I usually end up talking about myself, but I will try to speak from my heart.
Looking around this beautiful temple room, filled with devotees, well-wishers and more, I'm filled with joy, and gratitude. So many wonderful personalities are here together to celebrate and glorify you, our most beloved guide and master. How fortunate we are that you are here with us today in the flesh, on this special occasion.
Gurudeva, you are a master, a real genuine guru, the top-most life coach and you demonstrate so many qualities everywhere you go, all over the world. There's so much I could elaborate on your qualities but I will focus on one; "your deep compassion for everyone."
There is so much to do in Lord Caitanya's movement. But you Gurudeva, are doing so much. You are so expert at compassionately and directly relating this profound philosophy and wisdom to everyday people. People who come from such different cultural backgrounds, all over the world. This particular skill, I think is quite rare these days. We live in a world where politics, greed, economic prosperity is on the top of the list, meanwhile the planet, Mother Bhūmi is suffering, some countries are right now experiencing Hell on earth with war, genocide, lack of food, shelter, safety or even clean water. In the West, we take so much for granted. We think we're so fortunate and we are to some degree but our disease is mental and emotional. We have lost our ability to connect to one another. The more technology has raised the possibility to connect, the more superficiality and hard-heartedness has prevailed. We don't know what we need and we don't know how to relate to one another in a very kind way. However Guru Maharaja, you know that from talking to people from all walks of life, what people need the most right, you are aware that in the West, the young and old are searching after good, lasting, fulfilling relationships and ultimately their deepest need is to mend their broken relationship with our dear Krishna.
This is why you travel so much. I understand now. The compassion you have, the deep need to help these lost souls and bring them back to the shelter of the Lord's lotus feet. I do get it. As much as I'd like you to take care of your body and slow down, deep down, I understand why you do what you do. You are helping and caring personally and engaging your disciples like us to save as many people as possible. It's happening right now. By your grace, this room is now pretty full compared to only 10 years ago. And this is only little New Zealand.
Gurudeva, you are the most unselfish person I've ever met. The more my years go by in Krishna consciousness, the more I admire you, the more I can see you with a more tender heart. The more I feel like I really, wholeheartedly love you. I am eternally grateful for what you've given me as well as for everything you've ever done for me. The care and the time that you give are very much appreciated. I thank you for satisfying my need for some appreciation from time to time. Like, in our recent conversation at the Loft, you filled my heart with renewed strength and gave me exactly what I needed to hear. I feel determined to continue doing what I'm doing, knowing that it's pleasing you. Thank you so much for your kindness and affection, as well as for your encouragement that I seek. Hare Krishna.
Your eternally grateful servant,
Gitavali devi dasi
Gokula lila dd
Dear Guru maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In Srimad Bhagavatam 4.28.50
Exert from the purport-
Similarly, a devoted disciple of the spiritual master would rather die with the spiritual master than fail to execute the spiritual master's mission. As the Supreme Personality of Godhead comes down upon this earth to reestablish the principles of religion, so His representative, the spiritual master, also comes to reestablish religious principles. It is the duty of the disciples to take charge of the mission of the spiritual master and execute it properly. Otherwise the disciple should decide to die along with the spiritual master. In other words, to execute the will of the spiritual master, the disciple should be prepared to lay down his life and abandon all personal considerations.
Such a great personality you are for the benefit of the people of this world you give everything so that others have the opportunity to hear about Krishna abandoning your own personal considerations and laying down your life as a humble servant of the conditioned souls.
Establishing successful outreach centres that reach the local people and stable ashrams based on a foundation of hearing and chanting, is a great achievement in this age of confusion and chaos. You have masterminded not only a strategy to attract people whom otherwise may not have been but also provide us with tools and intelligence to maintain ourselves amongst the Kali turmoils.
Your disciples can all vouch how you personally nurtured them as they embarked upon the Bhakti path and continually year after year through all the ups and downs.
Today a hundred or so disciples gather in Auckland to celebrate your Vyasapuja. In the early 90’s when you first came your army of assistants was still to come.
You therefore humbly went person to person digging to find some treasures.
Seva kunja recalls how a month after meeting her you went with Chandrshekar Swami to her home. Seeing picture’s of Jim Morrison on her wall you asked is this 'Mick Jagger? and disapprovingly asked and what did he die of?’
Urjjesvari tells how you would call her every day for a month
Dina dayala tells one of her first meetings with you was at a car window where you sat watching Rasayatra distributing books.
Krishnaloka tells us how you personally helped her to give up smoking asking her about her friend ‘nico-teen’.
Ramadas tells how you went to his house and you showed interest in his artwork.
Khadirvana tells how you would visit her at her job at the Auckland University. Rasayatra tells us how she and Jhulanyatra arrived to have a new year break at a retreat centre and how you and another sannyasi feed them Prasada for a week.
Without your investment in these devotees back then I wonder if I would be here today?
Your efforts to grow and fuel the community of devotees is unstoppable. Just a few months ago I witnessed you travel over 3 hours from Auckland to Hamilton to meet a small crowd of 12 or so people. One young girl visiting Mantra Lounge for the first time thanked you for coming to Hamilton to which you responded that maybe you had come just to meet her.
The devotee organising the program apologised for the numbers, having expected more. Your response proving that you were grateful for an opportunity to speak to people about Krishna and had no regrets in travelling that distance.
On a personal level as the heart winning expert you are, you endear yourself to me time and time again. Especially a couple of years back as you coached me with your firm and loving hand through several trying years, as I stubbornly held onto an illusory conception of myself. You involved yourself in my life even to the degree of imparting tips to me like ‘my trendy red-rimmed glasses were probably not very attractive for a future possible marriage candidate’ and sending text messages such as ‘devotional service is the real eternal loving affair’.
I’m grateful to be a recipient of your mercy and joyful to assist you in your incredible outreach strategy here in New Zealand.
Desiring to always stay close to your heart by giving Krishna to others through all phases and stages of my life.
Your indebted servant and spiritual daughter,
Gokul Lila dd
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In Srimad Bhagavatam 4.28.50
Exert from the purport-
Similarly, a devoted disciple of the spiritual master would rather die with the spiritual master than fail to execute the spiritual master's mission. As the Supreme Personality of Godhead comes down upon this earth to reestablish the principles of religion, so His representative, the spiritual master, also comes to reestablish religious principles. It is the duty of the disciples to take charge of the mission of the spiritual master and execute it properly. Otherwise the disciple should decide to die along with the spiritual master. In other words, to execute the will of the spiritual master, the disciple should be prepared to lay down his life and abandon all personal considerations.
Such a great personality you are for the benefit of the people of this world you give everything so that others have the opportunity to hear about Krishna abandoning your own personal considerations and laying down your life as a humble servant of the conditioned souls.
Establishing successful outreach centres that reach the local people and stable ashrams based on a foundation of hearing and chanting, is a great achievement in this age of confusion and chaos. You have masterminded not only a strategy to attract people whom otherwise may not have been but also provide us with tools and intelligence to maintain ourselves amongst the Kali turmoils.
Your disciples can all vouch how you personally nurtured them as they embarked upon the Bhakti path and continually year after year through all the ups and downs.
Today a hundred or so disciples gather in Auckland to celebrate your Vyasapuja. In the early 90’s when you first came your army of assistants was still to come.
You therefore humbly went person to person digging to find some treasures.
Seva kunja recalls how a month after meeting her you went with Chandrshekar Swami to her home. Seeing picture’s of Jim Morrison on her wall you asked is this 'Mick Jagger? and disapprovingly asked and what did he die of?’
Urjjesvari tells how you would call her every day for a month
Dina dayala tells one of her first meetings with you was at a car window where you sat watching Rasayatra distributing books.
Krishnaloka tells us how you personally helped her to give up smoking asking her about her friend ‘nico-teen’.
Ramadas tells how you went to his house and you showed interest in his artwork.
Khadirvana tells how you would visit her at her job at the Auckland University. Rasayatra tells us how she and Jhulanyatra arrived to have a new year break at a retreat centre and how you and another sannyasi feed them Prasada for a week.
Without your investment in these devotees back then I wonder if I would be here today?
Your efforts to grow and fuel the community of devotees is unstoppable. Just a few months ago I witnessed you travel over 3 hours from Auckland to Hamilton to meet a small crowd of 12 or so people. One young girl visiting Mantra Lounge for the first time thanked you for coming to Hamilton to which you responded that maybe you had come just to meet her.
The devotee organising the program apologised for the numbers, having expected more. Your response proving that you were grateful for an opportunity to speak to people about Krishna and had no regrets in travelling that distance.
On a personal level as the heart winning expert you are, you endear yourself to me time and time again. Especially a couple of years back as you coached me with your firm and loving hand through several trying years, as I stubbornly held onto an illusory conception of myself. You involved yourself in my life even to the degree of imparting tips to me like ‘my trendy red-rimmed glasses were probably not very attractive for a future possible marriage candidate’ and sending text messages such as ‘devotional service is the real eternal loving affair’.
I’m grateful to be a recipient of your mercy and joyful to assist you in your incredible outreach strategy here in New Zealand.
Desiring to always stay close to your heart by giving Krishna to others through all phases and stages of my life.
Your indebted servant and spiritual daughter,
Gokul Lila dd
Golokanatha dasa
nama om visnu padaya krsna presthaya bhu-tale
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Holiness Devamrta swami, who is very dear to Lord Krishna having taken shelter at His lotus feet
Obeisance unto you who have all the qualities of unique skills in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
Dear Gurudeva, there are so many reasons I could find to thank and glorify you, although for the most part I have little or no realization of them. Due to my simple "kiwi loka" conditioning my ability to see the broad spectrum of things is lacking. Therefore living with a more shortsighted view my understanding is limited. However when i take a moment to reacquaint myself with my surroundings, I already have so much to be thankful for as far as my eyes can see.
This greatly fortunate situation I find myself in has all been made possible by your mercy. A situation filled with a variety of ways to serve KRSNA, quality saddhana and guidance all in good association. In addition, this year I had the privilege of being involved with the "Mantra Lounge" preaching centre in Hamilton recently started under your direction.
During my time there it soon became clear how challenging it could be opening a preaching centre from scratch. Ranging from finding and maintaining a venue that is suitable yet affordable, finding persons to invite, actually getting the persons to attend, preparing the prasadam and patiently nurturing the guests all the while striving to do the best we can but not knowing what the result will be.
It dawned on me how much more difficult the circumstances must have been to establish "The Loft". In an age where talks of consciousness and meditation were uncommonly pursued, vegetarians were treated as a different species and resources along with manpower were scarce.
My experience with the "Mantra Lounge" has allowed me to get a glimpse of what it must have been like in "The Loft's" humble beginnings, to see the potential of expansion today, and deepen my appreciation for the opportunity have given us. You have achieved and contributed so much despite so many seeming impediments. I also hope to contribute somehow following in your footsteps.
Aspiring to be your servant
Golokanatha dasa
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Holiness Devamrta swami, who is very dear to Lord Krishna having taken shelter at His lotus feet
Obeisance unto you who have all the qualities of unique skills in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
Dear Gurudeva, there are so many reasons I could find to thank and glorify you, although for the most part I have little or no realization of them. Due to my simple "kiwi loka" conditioning my ability to see the broad spectrum of things is lacking. Therefore living with a more shortsighted view my understanding is limited. However when i take a moment to reacquaint myself with my surroundings, I already have so much to be thankful for as far as my eyes can see.
This greatly fortunate situation I find myself in has all been made possible by your mercy. A situation filled with a variety of ways to serve KRSNA, quality saddhana and guidance all in good association. In addition, this year I had the privilege of being involved with the "Mantra Lounge" preaching centre in Hamilton recently started under your direction.
During my time there it soon became clear how challenging it could be opening a preaching centre from scratch. Ranging from finding and maintaining a venue that is suitable yet affordable, finding persons to invite, actually getting the persons to attend, preparing the prasadam and patiently nurturing the guests all the while striving to do the best we can but not knowing what the result will be.
It dawned on me how much more difficult the circumstances must have been to establish "The Loft". In an age where talks of consciousness and meditation were uncommonly pursued, vegetarians were treated as a different species and resources along with manpower were scarce.
My experience with the "Mantra Lounge" has allowed me to get a glimpse of what it must have been like in "The Loft's" humble beginnings, to see the potential of expansion today, and deepen my appreciation for the opportunity have given us. You have achieved and contributed so much despite so many seeming impediments. I also hope to contribute somehow following in your footsteps.
Aspiring to be your servant
Golokanatha dasa
Gopa Vrndesa Dasa
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to your lotus feet
Sri Guru is the inspiration for a disciple to move forwards in Krsna consciousness towards pure Krsna bhakti as the guru is the living representative of Srila Prabhupada and the unbroken chain of disciplic succession . Inspiration for a devotee to continue as a devotee is not really a complicated affair but it is based on one’s remembrance of Krsna and His tadiyas, Krsna’s devotees or things connected to Him. Srimad Bhagavata says, “He gives inspiration to those who have not forgotten Him and destroys those who have” (SB 3.29.39).
This inspiration help us to reflect on our consciousness, maker inner corrections, and move towards selfless service for the pleasure of guru and Krsna amidst internal and external challenges manifested in different shades and forms. Vyasa Puja is such an opportune day where a disciple should officially reflect on and glorify the spiritual master even though for a disciple such meditation and glorification is a daily affair-dhyayam stuvam tasya yasas trisandhyam.
It always amazes me that how many significant roles you expertly play to serve the mission of Srila Prabbhupada. You have your managerial responsibilities as a GBC and you are appreciated by your peers for efficiently playing such an important role. In the preaching front, you have strategised and created effective systems to reach out, to train and to care for devotees in the contemporary setting. When you preach, you connect to the intellect and the emotions of the audience, so you challenge the misconceptions in the head and churn the emotions of the heart and deliver the Krsna conscious message both for head and heart. You have the unique ability to take out things from the heart of the audience and present it with Krsna conscious perspective.Your books are so effective tool for reaching out that many times I tell a potential customer in the street to read out any page from “Hiding in unnatural Happiness” and I guarantee that it will make sense and they read and tells it does make sense.
As a spiritual master you are a loving father who is very personal to all of us. I remember, one of my God brothers told you that he takes guidance from different devotees in his bhakti life and you appreciated that at the same time you made the point that as the guru you would like to offer your personal guidance. This kind of care you offer despite your intense travel across multiple time zones, intense schedules, immense responsibilities and very rigorous sadhana program of hearing and chanting. I am completely indebted to you that all these years you encouraged me, guided me, heard all problems that I have faced with, corrected me and made sure that I am in the right path in bhakti. Your instructions are very powerful and I have full understanding and faith that your instructions carry the weight of the instructions from the Lord Himself.
On this most auspicious occasion, I humbly pray for your mercy so that I can be a useful instrument in your service and dedicate my life some how or other to please your lotus feet.
Your servant,
Gopavrndesa Dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to your lotus feet
Sri Guru is the inspiration for a disciple to move forwards in Krsna consciousness towards pure Krsna bhakti as the guru is the living representative of Srila Prabhupada and the unbroken chain of disciplic succession . Inspiration for a devotee to continue as a devotee is not really a complicated affair but it is based on one’s remembrance of Krsna and His tadiyas, Krsna’s devotees or things connected to Him. Srimad Bhagavata says, “He gives inspiration to those who have not forgotten Him and destroys those who have” (SB 3.29.39).
This inspiration help us to reflect on our consciousness, maker inner corrections, and move towards selfless service for the pleasure of guru and Krsna amidst internal and external challenges manifested in different shades and forms. Vyasa Puja is such an opportune day where a disciple should officially reflect on and glorify the spiritual master even though for a disciple such meditation and glorification is a daily affair-dhyayam stuvam tasya yasas trisandhyam.
It always amazes me that how many significant roles you expertly play to serve the mission of Srila Prabbhupada. You have your managerial responsibilities as a GBC and you are appreciated by your peers for efficiently playing such an important role. In the preaching front, you have strategised and created effective systems to reach out, to train and to care for devotees in the contemporary setting. When you preach, you connect to the intellect and the emotions of the audience, so you challenge the misconceptions in the head and churn the emotions of the heart and deliver the Krsna conscious message both for head and heart. You have the unique ability to take out things from the heart of the audience and present it with Krsna conscious perspective.Your books are so effective tool for reaching out that many times I tell a potential customer in the street to read out any page from “Hiding in unnatural Happiness” and I guarantee that it will make sense and they read and tells it does make sense.
As a spiritual master you are a loving father who is very personal to all of us. I remember, one of my God brothers told you that he takes guidance from different devotees in his bhakti life and you appreciated that at the same time you made the point that as the guru you would like to offer your personal guidance. This kind of care you offer despite your intense travel across multiple time zones, intense schedules, immense responsibilities and very rigorous sadhana program of hearing and chanting. I am completely indebted to you that all these years you encouraged me, guided me, heard all problems that I have faced with, corrected me and made sure that I am in the right path in bhakti. Your instructions are very powerful and I have full understanding and faith that your instructions carry the weight of the instructions from the Lord Himself.
On this most auspicious occasion, I humbly pray for your mercy so that I can be a useful instrument in your service and dedicate my life some how or other to please your lotus feet.
Your servant,
Gopavrndesa Dasa
Gopala Guru dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to your lotus feet.
A young child goes about its way in the world not really aware of everything that goes on to make things work, it is not aware of all of the effort that goes into making their school operate, they just turn up and things are happening as they should. Adults can often be in the same situation. Adults pay their rates and taxes and turn on their water tap expecting it to work, however a lot of people may not be aware of the infrastructure and planning that goes into making sure that the water tap works.
Similarly, I have been doing the same thing in my Bhakti, and it is only recently that I have had a glimpse and noticed both the extent of my ignorance and the glories of your efforts and example.
On your recommendation this year I attended an ISKCON management training course at the beginning of this year, it was a real game changer for me. Although I had learnt some of the teachings through my university education, I had a chance to relearn and learn new things, and also an opportunity to apply the teaching in a devotional context. This gave me inspiration and confidence, it also opened my eyes to the way you have re-established the outreach in New Zealand.
Whilst doing our strategic planning exercise in Wellington and analysing the strategic foundation of Bhakti Lounge I discovered something amazing, you had a strategy! It may sound silly, but it wasn’t until we started to analyse the way that we did things, which are inspired and guided by you, that I could see and appreciate your approach;
- You are well researched and know the audience
- Your mission and goals are well defined
- You have well thought out implementation strategies
- You also think outside the box and try new things
It has been an experience that has made me appreciate much more the efforts you have put into developing this yatra, is has made me appreciate what is possible, and leaves me excited about the many possibilities for future service that await us.
Following in Srila Prabhupada footsteps you are a visionary, very strategic, and also a realist. Thank you Gurudeva for all of the effort you have put into developing this Yatra, by your efforts I and many others have come into the association of the devotees and for that I am eternally grateful.
As a good son I would like to assist you with your work, of which there is still plenty more to do. To date our programs have been very successful in cultivating young men and women in Krishna consciousness and because of this we now have a developing household community. How to care for and encourage them in their Krishna consciousness? And how to encourage new householders to take up the practice of Krishna consciousness? Apart from Moscow and other parts of Eastern Europe, where there is a different social / political / economic climate, there are no tried and proven programs in the West where the local Western population of families have been consistently and successfully cultivated. This is the new frontier, and the exciting thing is that you have given us the tools to do such outreach work.
Please bless me so that I can assist you in carrying out your mission in New Zealand, assisting you in assisting Srila Prabhupada. I am looking forward to see what else I cannot see so that I may serve you better.
Your serving,
Gopala Guru dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to your lotus feet.
A young child goes about its way in the world not really aware of everything that goes on to make things work, it is not aware of all of the effort that goes into making their school operate, they just turn up and things are happening as they should. Adults can often be in the same situation. Adults pay their rates and taxes and turn on their water tap expecting it to work, however a lot of people may not be aware of the infrastructure and planning that goes into making sure that the water tap works.
Similarly, I have been doing the same thing in my Bhakti, and it is only recently that I have had a glimpse and noticed both the extent of my ignorance and the glories of your efforts and example.
On your recommendation this year I attended an ISKCON management training course at the beginning of this year, it was a real game changer for me. Although I had learnt some of the teachings through my university education, I had a chance to relearn and learn new things, and also an opportunity to apply the teaching in a devotional context. This gave me inspiration and confidence, it also opened my eyes to the way you have re-established the outreach in New Zealand.
Whilst doing our strategic planning exercise in Wellington and analysing the strategic foundation of Bhakti Lounge I discovered something amazing, you had a strategy! It may sound silly, but it wasn’t until we started to analyse the way that we did things, which are inspired and guided by you, that I could see and appreciate your approach;
- You are well researched and know the audience
- Your mission and goals are well defined
- You have well thought out implementation strategies
- You also think outside the box and try new things
It has been an experience that has made me appreciate much more the efforts you have put into developing this yatra, is has made me appreciate what is possible, and leaves me excited about the many possibilities for future service that await us.
Following in Srila Prabhupada footsteps you are a visionary, very strategic, and also a realist. Thank you Gurudeva for all of the effort you have put into developing this Yatra, by your efforts I and many others have come into the association of the devotees and for that I am eternally grateful.
As a good son I would like to assist you with your work, of which there is still plenty more to do. To date our programs have been very successful in cultivating young men and women in Krishna consciousness and because of this we now have a developing household community. How to care for and encourage them in their Krishna consciousness? And how to encourage new householders to take up the practice of Krishna consciousness? Apart from Moscow and other parts of Eastern Europe, where there is a different social / political / economic climate, there are no tried and proven programs in the West where the local Western population of families have been consistently and successfully cultivated. This is the new frontier, and the exciting thing is that you have given us the tools to do such outreach work.
Please bless me so that I can assist you in carrying out your mission in New Zealand, assisting you in assisting Srila Prabhupada. I am looking forward to see what else I cannot see so that I may serve you better.
Your serving,
Gopala Guru dasa
Gopi-Gitamrita devi dasi , Bulgaria
Dear Gurudeva ,
Please accept my humbe obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu!
Before I used to feel like Arjuna felt on the battlefield. Discouraged, disturbed , afraid ...
BG 2.8 Purport
"...it appears that he was unable to solve his real problem without the help of the Spiritual master..."
You helped me, Guru-Maharaj, to make a big step in my Spiritual life and towards all the Vaisnavas. You helped me realize that only by pure consciousness, pure Bhakti, can we make everything better .
Thank you for your precious instructions, for the sweet nectar of your lectures and your heartwarming association! Thank you for the austerity you did to come to Bulgaria after so long! Thank you, dear Father, that you gave me shelter at Your lotus feet !
Praying for your blessings ,
your servant,
Gopi-Gitamrita devi dasi
Please accept my humbe obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu!
Before I used to feel like Arjuna felt on the battlefield. Discouraged, disturbed , afraid ...
BG 2.8 Purport
"...it appears that he was unable to solve his real problem without the help of the Spiritual master..."
You helped me, Guru-Maharaj, to make a big step in my Spiritual life and towards all the Vaisnavas. You helped me realize that only by pure consciousness, pure Bhakti, can we make everything better .
Thank you for your precious instructions, for the sweet nectar of your lectures and your heartwarming association! Thank you for the austerity you did to come to Bulgaria after so long! Thank you, dear Father, that you gave me shelter at Your lotus feet !
Praying for your blessings ,
your servant,
Gopi-Gitamrita devi dasi
Gopipremamrita devi dasi
Hare Krsna Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please Accept My humble obeisance at your Lotus Feet.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupad!
I take this auspicious day as an opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to you and to seek your blessings.
Guru Maharaj you always mention that with good association anything can be tolerated in bhakthi and one who has good counsel and guidance is always wealthy. Thank you Guru Maharaj for always giving me your association and guiding me through your wonderful lectures and through your personal presence. Also thank you for giving me some wonderful devotee association.I beg to you that i remain always wealthy by being under the guidance of sincere devotees.
I realised that my mind is always in a dream state, where im the best and everything is involved around me. I understand this life in material world is compared to a dream, but the sad part is im living in a dream within a dream. you mentioned in your lecture that when we sincerely take to the chanting of holyname we would get rid of all these states of the mind, just like how a snake sheds its skin. Guru Maharaj, I find it extremly difficult to get out of this illusion and serve you sincerely.
Srila Bhakthi siddanta saraswati Maharaj says
"If we take shelter of the lotus feet of the spiritual master, we can become free from illusion, fear and distress. If we wholeheartedly beg for his mercy without any deceit then the spiritual master bestows all auspiciousness upon us."
Guru Maharaj I please beg you to bestow all auspiciouness upon me so i can take up to the chanting sincerly and get rid of illusion, fear and distress.
As a Spiritual father you have given me the holy name, wonderful devootee association, wonderful family and a very wonderful god family. I feel im just receiving the mercy from you and not passing it on to others.I understand that a Guru Disciple relationship is based on devotional service and also relationship between Guru and disciple should be in the mood of friendship and reverence, friendship meaning a disciple befriends the instruction of Guru and what is importatnt to the Guru should be the life and soul of the disciple. Guru Maharaj i understand book distribution is the service that is really close to your heart. At my present family situation Im not able to do book distribution, but i want to outreach to people in whatever small way i can. Guru Maharaj please help me to give Krishna to others.
On this most auspicious day I Pray to Lord Narashimadev to bestow you with good health for you to continue with your mission to spread the Sankirtan movement.
Thank you Guru Maharaj for accepting me as your spiritual daughter.
Aspiring to be your humble servant
gopipremamrita devi dasi
Please Accept My humble obeisance at your Lotus Feet.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupad!
I take this auspicious day as an opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to you and to seek your blessings.
Guru Maharaj you always mention that with good association anything can be tolerated in bhakthi and one who has good counsel and guidance is always wealthy. Thank you Guru Maharaj for always giving me your association and guiding me through your wonderful lectures and through your personal presence. Also thank you for giving me some wonderful devotee association.I beg to you that i remain always wealthy by being under the guidance of sincere devotees.
I realised that my mind is always in a dream state, where im the best and everything is involved around me. I understand this life in material world is compared to a dream, but the sad part is im living in a dream within a dream. you mentioned in your lecture that when we sincerely take to the chanting of holyname we would get rid of all these states of the mind, just like how a snake sheds its skin. Guru Maharaj, I find it extremly difficult to get out of this illusion and serve you sincerely.
Srila Bhakthi siddanta saraswati Maharaj says
"If we take shelter of the lotus feet of the spiritual master, we can become free from illusion, fear and distress. If we wholeheartedly beg for his mercy without any deceit then the spiritual master bestows all auspiciousness upon us."
Guru Maharaj I please beg you to bestow all auspiciouness upon me so i can take up to the chanting sincerly and get rid of illusion, fear and distress.
As a Spiritual father you have given me the holy name, wonderful devootee association, wonderful family and a very wonderful god family. I feel im just receiving the mercy from you and not passing it on to others.I understand that a Guru Disciple relationship is based on devotional service and also relationship between Guru and disciple should be in the mood of friendship and reverence, friendship meaning a disciple befriends the instruction of Guru and what is importatnt to the Guru should be the life and soul of the disciple. Guru Maharaj i understand book distribution is the service that is really close to your heart. At my present family situation Im not able to do book distribution, but i want to outreach to people in whatever small way i can. Guru Maharaj please help me to give Krishna to others.
On this most auspicious day I Pray to Lord Narashimadev to bestow you with good health for you to continue with your mission to spread the Sankirtan movement.
Thank you Guru Maharaj for accepting me as your spiritual daughter.
Aspiring to be your humble servant
gopipremamrita devi dasi
Govinda Darsana dasa
nama om vishnu padaya krishna presthaya bhutale
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
Hare Krishna to you Dear Gurudev
Please accept my most humble and most respectful obeisances.
Wishing you a very happy and good health concious appearance day.
Gurudev, your bold preaching and artistic ways of presenting the science of Krishna is extremely unique and satisfying. Maintaining the information intact while delivering the complex concepts is a challenging task; however, you very expertly exhibit complete control over such situations. Your strong faith in Krishna conciousness and clear understanding of scriptures is really admirable. Your lectures are inspiration and your uncompromising approach in presenting Krishna conciousness is worth meditating and learning.
Your motivation for studying and preaching has given a new shape to my life. Your inquiries about my preaching efforts is very encouraging. Gurudev thank you for directing me to the correct path and engaging me in Krishna's service. I am pushing myself, and by yours blessings only could meet fractions of your expectations. I surrender and seek your blessings for pleasing you and the Parampara in full in future.
Please bless me with the proper mood and intelligence.
Thank you
Your disciple
Govinda Darsana dasa
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
Hare Krishna to you Dear Gurudev
Please accept my most humble and most respectful obeisances.
Wishing you a very happy and good health concious appearance day.
Gurudev, your bold preaching and artistic ways of presenting the science of Krishna is extremely unique and satisfying. Maintaining the information intact while delivering the complex concepts is a challenging task; however, you very expertly exhibit complete control over such situations. Your strong faith in Krishna conciousness and clear understanding of scriptures is really admirable. Your lectures are inspiration and your uncompromising approach in presenting Krishna conciousness is worth meditating and learning.
Your motivation for studying and preaching has given a new shape to my life. Your inquiries about my preaching efforts is very encouraging. Gurudev thank you for directing me to the correct path and engaging me in Krishna's service. I am pushing myself, and by yours blessings only could meet fractions of your expectations. I surrender and seek your blessings for pleasing you and the Parampara in full in future.
Please bless me with the proper mood and intelligence.
Thank you
Your disciple
Govinda Darsana dasa
Govinda Kund Devi Dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
On this auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja I offer my dandavats to the dust of your lotus feet.
In the months before meeting you, I had heard that without a Guru there can be no direction in life but I was wondering how will I ever get a Guru. By divine arrangement, not too long after hearing about the importance of having a Guru, I met you. Lord Krishna says that one should approach a bonafide spiritual master in order to make spiritual advancement. It is Lord's causeless mercy that I have you as my Guru Maharaja and it is all because of your unlimited compassion that I am in Krishna Conscious today. I feel very blessed that I am a part of your family. It is indeed by your blessings and guidance that I have any hope of crossing this miserable ocean of birth and death.
When I first saw you in Melbourne, at that time I was not much aware of ISKCON and I had no appreciation of your status either. But today, I realize how important you are in my life. You are always available to us in the form of your indescribable sweet and deep lectures. Guru Maharaja, your constant emphasis on humility, tolerance and sincere service inspires me the most. You are the embodiment of these qualities. You have lived all your life in this mood. Not only you are unimaginably patient, you are also divinely to elevate the consciousness of others. Thank you Gurudeva for showing us how to be a part of this divine symphony.
You have helped pull so many people out of the darkness of ignorance. Without your mercy I would be nowhere. I know, no matter how much I try to serve, I can never even come close to repaying you. My service is so insignificant. There is actually nothing I can offer you that has any worth, I can however make a humble attempt to try to wholeheartedly take the process of Krishna Consciousness and work towards trying to make the remaining of my life as an offering to please you.
I am forever your eternal servant and I hope and pray that forever Krishna will keep me as your servant.
Your Servant,
Govindakund devi dasi
On this auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja I offer my dandavats to the dust of your lotus feet.
In the months before meeting you, I had heard that without a Guru there can be no direction in life but I was wondering how will I ever get a Guru. By divine arrangement, not too long after hearing about the importance of having a Guru, I met you. Lord Krishna says that one should approach a bonafide spiritual master in order to make spiritual advancement. It is Lord's causeless mercy that I have you as my Guru Maharaja and it is all because of your unlimited compassion that I am in Krishna Conscious today. I feel very blessed that I am a part of your family. It is indeed by your blessings and guidance that I have any hope of crossing this miserable ocean of birth and death.
When I first saw you in Melbourne, at that time I was not much aware of ISKCON and I had no appreciation of your status either. But today, I realize how important you are in my life. You are always available to us in the form of your indescribable sweet and deep lectures. Guru Maharaja, your constant emphasis on humility, tolerance and sincere service inspires me the most. You are the embodiment of these qualities. You have lived all your life in this mood. Not only you are unimaginably patient, you are also divinely to elevate the consciousness of others. Thank you Gurudeva for showing us how to be a part of this divine symphony.
You have helped pull so many people out of the darkness of ignorance. Without your mercy I would be nowhere. I know, no matter how much I try to serve, I can never even come close to repaying you. My service is so insignificant. There is actually nothing I can offer you that has any worth, I can however make a humble attempt to try to wholeheartedly take the process of Krishna Consciousness and work towards trying to make the remaining of my life as an offering to please you.
I am forever your eternal servant and I hope and pray that forever Krishna will keep me as your servant.
Your Servant,
Govindakund devi dasi
Guru vani devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my heartfelt obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
The concept of “mercy” has always been an elusive idea for me. What is it? How do we qualify for it? And what does it look like when we get it? I once heard a devotee describe mercy as ‘undeserved kindness’. That really helped me to see it as a tangible non-ethereal thing. And it helped me realize how grateful I am to you for your on-going undeserved kindness upon me for all these years.
At times you have referred to your ‘older’ disciples as being in their ‘teenage years’. Teenagers are supposedly more self-managing than infants or children; they don’t need such constant attention and encouragement by the parent. For the parent in many ways it’s easier. But… there’s a flip side of course - the fiercely independent streak. No longer under the wing of Mum (Krsnaloka) and Dad (you Gurudeva) teenagers think they already know everything and can do it all on their own. And so, patiently the parents wait … year after year, for the teen to come round again, to recognize that mum & dad were pretty sharp, and maybe they should ask for their advice and guidance again.
You patiently wait for your teenage children to shake off their “got it sorted” independence. Your mercy is there even when we can’t see it, just as a teenager doesn’t realize all that the parent is sacrificing for them.
I have been riding on those teenage years for a bit too long Gurudeva. Thinking I’m the doer; resting on my self-perceived material capabilities in the hope of making spiritual advancement. It’s time for me to mature; I can’t move on without your mercy. Please don’t let me waste these precious years I have of your association. Please give me your merciful guidance, whether it be a rose or a thunderbolt.
One day Krishna will call you back to Him, and we will have to experience your mercy through memories and following your instructions. Please imprint upon my consciousness those instructions to hold tightly for the rest of this wee lifetime. Then only can I live up to my name.
Thank you for patiently waiting for me. Bowing at your lotus feet.
Your independent teenage daughter,
Guru vani devi dasi
Please accept my heartfelt obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
The concept of “mercy” has always been an elusive idea for me. What is it? How do we qualify for it? And what does it look like when we get it? I once heard a devotee describe mercy as ‘undeserved kindness’. That really helped me to see it as a tangible non-ethereal thing. And it helped me realize how grateful I am to you for your on-going undeserved kindness upon me for all these years.
At times you have referred to your ‘older’ disciples as being in their ‘teenage years’. Teenagers are supposedly more self-managing than infants or children; they don’t need such constant attention and encouragement by the parent. For the parent in many ways it’s easier. But… there’s a flip side of course - the fiercely independent streak. No longer under the wing of Mum (Krsnaloka) and Dad (you Gurudeva) teenagers think they already know everything and can do it all on their own. And so, patiently the parents wait … year after year, for the teen to come round again, to recognize that mum & dad were pretty sharp, and maybe they should ask for their advice and guidance again.
You patiently wait for your teenage children to shake off their “got it sorted” independence. Your mercy is there even when we can’t see it, just as a teenager doesn’t realize all that the parent is sacrificing for them.
I have been riding on those teenage years for a bit too long Gurudeva. Thinking I’m the doer; resting on my self-perceived material capabilities in the hope of making spiritual advancement. It’s time for me to mature; I can’t move on without your mercy. Please don’t let me waste these precious years I have of your association. Please give me your merciful guidance, whether it be a rose or a thunderbolt.
One day Krishna will call you back to Him, and we will have to experience your mercy through memories and following your instructions. Please imprint upon my consciousness those instructions to hold tightly for the rest of this wee lifetime. Then only can I live up to my name.
Thank you for patiently waiting for me. Bowing at your lotus feet.
Your independent teenage daughter,
Guru vani devi dasi
Hamsa Sanga Dasa
Hare Krsna Guru Maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you, on your divine appearance day.
Gurudev as a very dear associate of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Krsna, you are already fulfilling Krsna's instruction of sarva dharman parityaja (BG18.66), surrendering yourself fully to Krsna. And you're further carrying out, so greatly Yare dekha tare kaha krsna upadesa (C.c madhya lila 7.128). Despite anything else that comes in your way, you are still instructing all others, everywhere you go, to follow the orders of Krsna and preach Krsna Conciousness.
For you Gurudev, I just want to be your little soldier, surrendered at your every instruction and just eternally distribute books for your supreme pleasure and your most dear Guru Maharaj Srila Prabhupada. Please make book distribution my dharma.
I never want to fall into the lap of maya devi. I just wish to shelter myself with Prabhupada's mercy by your blessings and save all the conditioned souls at the same time. Fighting for reclaiming all the fallen jivas back to Goloka, in this life, is very enlivening. Narada Muni is preaching in every universe, everywhere. Please make me follow in his footsteps for your pleasure.
When Gopakumar kept seeing him everywhere in each universe he asked him a list of questions. One of which was; "Are Krsna's devotees omnipresent also?" Narada muni said, "Yes, only by Krsna's mercy". I want to be like that; so i can battle for you anywhere, everywhere & in any form and condition, all at the same time. I would just like to distribute trillions of books, in the laps of the so-called "innocent" public, diagnosing them with the highly intoxicating, ecstatic krsna prema.
I never want to fall into the lap of maya devi . Krsnadasa in Caitanya lila got saved by Caitanya Mahaprabhu from the Bhattaharis, who were doing all sorts of nonsense. Similarly, please, please pull and drag me out of all of my rascaldom and put me in that most transcendentally pleasing service that pleases you and Srila Prabhupada the most.
Please engage me in that most special service eternally, birth after birth after birth after birth, for your joyful pleasure. I beg for the potency, purity, capacity, ability and blessings to do this, because I have nothing, I am without mercy. But I'm not going stop for anything. Please make me your sold out servant.
Thank you for giving me life.
Your tiny servant,
Hamsa sanga dasa brahmacari
from Sri Sri Radha Gopinaths abode in Sydney.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you, on your divine appearance day.
Gurudev as a very dear associate of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Krsna, you are already fulfilling Krsna's instruction of sarva dharman parityaja (BG18.66), surrendering yourself fully to Krsna. And you're further carrying out, so greatly Yare dekha tare kaha krsna upadesa (C.c madhya lila 7.128). Despite anything else that comes in your way, you are still instructing all others, everywhere you go, to follow the orders of Krsna and preach Krsna Conciousness.
For you Gurudev, I just want to be your little soldier, surrendered at your every instruction and just eternally distribute books for your supreme pleasure and your most dear Guru Maharaj Srila Prabhupada. Please make book distribution my dharma.
I never want to fall into the lap of maya devi. I just wish to shelter myself with Prabhupada's mercy by your blessings and save all the conditioned souls at the same time. Fighting for reclaiming all the fallen jivas back to Goloka, in this life, is very enlivening. Narada Muni is preaching in every universe, everywhere. Please make me follow in his footsteps for your pleasure.
When Gopakumar kept seeing him everywhere in each universe he asked him a list of questions. One of which was; "Are Krsna's devotees omnipresent also?" Narada muni said, "Yes, only by Krsna's mercy". I want to be like that; so i can battle for you anywhere, everywhere & in any form and condition, all at the same time. I would just like to distribute trillions of books, in the laps of the so-called "innocent" public, diagnosing them with the highly intoxicating, ecstatic krsna prema.
I never want to fall into the lap of maya devi . Krsnadasa in Caitanya lila got saved by Caitanya Mahaprabhu from the Bhattaharis, who were doing all sorts of nonsense. Similarly, please, please pull and drag me out of all of my rascaldom and put me in that most transcendentally pleasing service that pleases you and Srila Prabhupada the most.
Please engage me in that most special service eternally, birth after birth after birth after birth, for your joyful pleasure. I beg for the potency, purity, capacity, ability and blessings to do this, because I have nothing, I am without mercy. But I'm not going stop for anything. Please make me your sold out servant.
Thank you for giving me life.
Your tiny servant,
Hamsa sanga dasa brahmacari
from Sri Sri Radha Gopinaths abode in Sydney.
Hamsavatar Das
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please Accept My Humble Obeisances. All Glories to Srila Prabhupada and you.
We are fortunate to have devotees like you who bring the conditioned souls back to Sri Krishna's Lotus Feet. Our welfare is in assisting you in your service.
Hope to be worthy of assisting you.
Your Servant,
Hamsavatar Das
Please Accept My Humble Obeisances. All Glories to Srila Prabhupada and you.
We are fortunate to have devotees like you who bring the conditioned souls back to Sri Krishna's Lotus Feet. Our welfare is in assisting you in your service.
Hope to be worthy of assisting you.
Your Servant,
Hamsavatar Das
Hari Bhakta das
Dear, Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All Glories to you on your divine appearance day
It’s been an amazing year Gurudeva, I am dumbfounded by your powerful abilities to perform outreach in all different parts of the world. You have influenced so many of us to follow in your footsteps. Here in Los Angeles, the beginning of a revolution in outreach is taking place, and in all honesty it is coming from your great intellectual influence and your ability to reach out to the youth, introducing them to Krishna Consciousness in the most effective way.
In your own way, you are pioneering us into the new frontier of western outreach, opening the eyes to those who truly want to bring Krishna Consciousness to the masses, equipping us with the proper tools in order to truly reach out to the degraded youth of the modern world.
Simultaneously, almost just by your presence you erase all doubts and misconceptions, it truly shows that you’re a divine instrument of the Supreme. As I transition in life and as I continue to get older in my infancy in bhakti, I see more and more that my only qualification in life is that I am connected to you, this is my only qualification. But this one qualification is everything I need in order to be an instrument of divine will.
I am extremely grateful Gurudeva, without you my life would be meaningless. You are connecting me to the Acarya. You are manifesting things in my life, and I hope to be an instrument of your desire for the great wave of Krishna Consciousness. Please allow me to use everything I have to offer, for the propagation of the Super- Consciousness. Although I am full of wants and needs, I beg to be able to utilize everything for your pleasure. Thank you so much Gurudeva.
Your insignificant servant,
Hari Bhakta das
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All Glories to you on your divine appearance day
It’s been an amazing year Gurudeva, I am dumbfounded by your powerful abilities to perform outreach in all different parts of the world. You have influenced so many of us to follow in your footsteps. Here in Los Angeles, the beginning of a revolution in outreach is taking place, and in all honesty it is coming from your great intellectual influence and your ability to reach out to the youth, introducing them to Krishna Consciousness in the most effective way.
In your own way, you are pioneering us into the new frontier of western outreach, opening the eyes to those who truly want to bring Krishna Consciousness to the masses, equipping us with the proper tools in order to truly reach out to the degraded youth of the modern world.
Simultaneously, almost just by your presence you erase all doubts and misconceptions, it truly shows that you’re a divine instrument of the Supreme. As I transition in life and as I continue to get older in my infancy in bhakti, I see more and more that my only qualification in life is that I am connected to you, this is my only qualification. But this one qualification is everything I need in order to be an instrument of divine will.
I am extremely grateful Gurudeva, without you my life would be meaningless. You are connecting me to the Acarya. You are manifesting things in my life, and I hope to be an instrument of your desire for the great wave of Krishna Consciousness. Please allow me to use everything I have to offer, for the propagation of the Super- Consciousness. Although I am full of wants and needs, I beg to be able to utilize everything for your pleasure. Thank you so much Gurudeva.
Your insignificant servant,
Hari Bhakta das
Hari loka das
nama oṁ viṣnu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
In one of the lectures I heard Vani is more important , then I thought "how's that". But one day Nityanand Priya Prabhu told me how much personal association you have got of Srila Prabhupad. However, you dedicated your entire life at the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupad by taking his instructions as life and soul. I am really inspired to see how a disciple serves his Gurudev.
Thank you Gurudev, as my intention is to serve you more and more in whatever capacity possible and in the mood of absolute surrender without a tinge of wanting instant glorification.. I pray that I will be able to continue to follow your instructions through all the ups and downs of life, and one day make you proud.
On this special occasion I beg for forgiveness, enlightening and engaging in your service. Please let me be a soldier under your command.
trying to be your servant and servant of the devotees,
Hari loka das
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
In one of the lectures I heard Vani is more important , then I thought "how's that". But one day Nityanand Priya Prabhu told me how much personal association you have got of Srila Prabhupad. However, you dedicated your entire life at the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupad by taking his instructions as life and soul. I am really inspired to see how a disciple serves his Gurudev.
Thank you Gurudev, as my intention is to serve you more and more in whatever capacity possible and in the mood of absolute surrender without a tinge of wanting instant glorification.. I pray that I will be able to continue to follow your instructions through all the ups and downs of life, and one day make you proud.
On this special occasion I beg for forgiveness, enlightening and engaging in your service. Please let me be a soldier under your command.
trying to be your servant and servant of the devotees,
Hari loka das
Haridev Das
(Spoken by Haridev, 3 years, 6 months old. Transcribed by Sukanthi Radha dasi)
Dear Guru Maharaja,
I love you. I know you are here.
I love you so much as how much love I have.
Soon I will do a big nice thing as beautiful as anything. It's a decoration.
I love you so much and my name is Haridev.
Thank you for giving the names Sukanthi Radha, Thakur Saranga and Haridev.
I love you so so so much and I have a peacock feather in my vase.
Your servant,
Haridev Das
Harinamamrita das
Hare Krishna dear Gurumaharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to you. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I am always indebted to you for giving me the relationship with Krishna through the glorious guru parampara, having shown the destination and giving the most powerful process of chanting the holy name.
I am well aware of the fact of where you picked me up from and I wish to remember that rescue forever gratefully. No amount of thanking can ever payback even an insignificant portion of what you have given me by discounting all my faults and disqualifications.
GuruMaharaj, I really don't know if I am of any good as a disciple. But I am trying my level best to remember your primary instruction to me "Take Krishna and Give Krishna to others". All I am trying is hold onto this one instruction of yours as my life and soul by trying to develop genuine attraction for reading your favourite Srimad Bhavadam and trying to be actively engaged in sharing the glories of the holy name as your servant.
If I can remember this instruction and be an instrument for you until my last day and last breath, I will certainly feel good for having attempted to repay at least 0.0001% of your love and what you have given me; as an offering to please you.
On this auspicious day, I sincerely pray to Lord Narasimha Dev to protect you and give you strength to carry on with your service to Srila Prabhupada and save many more wandering fallen souls like me.
You are truly my ever well-wisher. Hare Krishna.
With love and gratitude,
Harinamamrita das
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to you. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I am always indebted to you for giving me the relationship with Krishna through the glorious guru parampara, having shown the destination and giving the most powerful process of chanting the holy name.
I am well aware of the fact of where you picked me up from and I wish to remember that rescue forever gratefully. No amount of thanking can ever payback even an insignificant portion of what you have given me by discounting all my faults and disqualifications.
GuruMaharaj, I really don't know if I am of any good as a disciple. But I am trying my level best to remember your primary instruction to me "Take Krishna and Give Krishna to others". All I am trying is hold onto this one instruction of yours as my life and soul by trying to develop genuine attraction for reading your favourite Srimad Bhavadam and trying to be actively engaged in sharing the glories of the holy name as your servant.
If I can remember this instruction and be an instrument for you until my last day and last breath, I will certainly feel good for having attempted to repay at least 0.0001% of your love and what you have given me; as an offering to please you.
On this auspicious day, I sincerely pray to Lord Narasimha Dev to protect you and give you strength to carry on with your service to Srila Prabhupada and save many more wandering fallen souls like me.
You are truly my ever well-wisher. Hare Krishna.
With love and gratitude,
Harinamamrita das
Hriman Krishna das
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
I was enlivened listening to a recent discussion you had with HH Sivarama Swami on how to make more devotees in Hungary. Your company culture has been extant for twenty-five years and continues to deliver the goods in our devotee making industry for Western preaching. You’ve become a global star in this enterprise that your signature model has your god brothers stirred up to follow suit.
You’ve coined our outreach motto as:
1) We make it easy to come to Krishna consciousness.
2) We make it easy to organically grow in Krishna consciousness.
3) We make it easy to give Krishna consciousness to others.
You’ve established two components:
1) A transcendental nightclub and party scene – the Loft.
2) The contemporary Vedic ashram.
All the while Srila Prabhupada’s books remains the bedrock for all our activities that keeps us rooted firm on the ground.
I can’t find the words to describe my utmost fortune and gratitude to be part of such a dynamic venture. It’s been at least fifteen years and running since I’ve grown up in your spiritual corporation; I’ve witnessed it unfold, evolve and blossom into a cutting-edge network for Lord Caitanya’s pleasure.
Furthermore your latest title; ‘Hiding in Unnatural Happiness’ has seen many people desiring to connect with Srila Prabhupada’s books. I’ve seen it work as a complete bridge for all audiences to crave the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.
Your writing is an expression of compassion, consistent to the essence of sastra, made pertinent to current affairs and serve always to the pulse and punch of where people are most needy – genius to say the least!
Your carefully crafted words resonate with such a wide crowd that we’ve sold over 20,000 copies of HIUH in NZ. You are comparable to a modern day Sukadeva Gosvami, because Prabhupada explains in the first Canto that Sukadeva Gosvami was famous for his ability to present spiritual matters in a manner that would appeal to all classes of men. (SB1.1.3 purport)
The spiritual enthusiasm you inject into the hearts of whom you speak and the ease by which you bring them to devotional service is a testimony to your spiritual stature – this is a sure sign of uttama adhikar.
Your books, your ambient nightclubs, your contemporary Vedic ashrams are all a symphonic effort to hi-jack the deviant mentality of the conditioned soul and re-route them to the spiritual world.
And when it comes to rejuvenating for Krishna, you know the best beaches and hang out spots to chill out with your comrades. You displayed this when you kindly brought me to Jagannatha Puri last year. You showed by example how one needs revive for Krishna’s service by hearing and chanting with cherished god brothers.
In Jagannatha Puri, you and Guru Prasad Maharaj would meet Niranjan Maharaj in his room and speak confidentially every evening to churn the nectar of Krishna katha, just like Mahaprabhu would do with Ramanada Raya and His intimate associates.
During the day you would go to different sacred places to hear and chant the glories of Lord Caitanya with rapt attention. You always appeared absorbed in bhajan and relished the mellows of Mahaprabhu’s pastimes.
We did Harinam in the jungles of Puri and visited the temple of Olarnantha, where you gracefully placed your head on the feet of Lord Caitanya’s imprints from the stone he melted in His ecstasy.
Sometimes you went to the beach with Niranjan Maharaj to chant and speak privately with him, while Guru Prasad Maharaj was in ecstasy body-surfing the waves.
Standing by the Garuda Stambha, outside the Jagannatha temple you looked so delighted chanting with your god brothers, where Mahaprabhu would sometimes gaze before entering.
You were very merciful to me by removing my university misconceptions and teamed up with Guru Prasad Maharaj to smash my notions to pieces.
You did all these things to recharge whilst gathering the strength for your intense eating, sleeping and meeting program at the annual GBC conferences in Mayapur.
Your conduct is sublime and you outreach with the vigor of a lion and the affection of a Bengali mother. Witnessing your behavior and love for bringing people to Krishna consciousness, you simultaneously perform your duties to the Holy name – which according to Sanatana Gosvami defines a spiritual master of the world. (CC Ant 4.103 purport).
Some preach nicely, but don’t behave properly; while others behave nicely, but don’t preach. In all circumstances you’re showing by example what it means to be a wholesome and mature Vaisnava in Srila Prabhupada’s ISKCON:
1) By establishing your company culture, you’ve demonstrated how one should preach effectively in the Western world.
2) By taking me to the holy dhama you’ve exhibited how one should relax, revive and have exquisite dealings in the association of devotees.
I am eternally indebted and proud for this opportunity to serve and be part of your enterprise.
Determined to be your obedient and selfless servant.
Hriman Krishna das
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
I was enlivened listening to a recent discussion you had with HH Sivarama Swami on how to make more devotees in Hungary. Your company culture has been extant for twenty-five years and continues to deliver the goods in our devotee making industry for Western preaching. You’ve become a global star in this enterprise that your signature model has your god brothers stirred up to follow suit.
You’ve coined our outreach motto as:
1) We make it easy to come to Krishna consciousness.
2) We make it easy to organically grow in Krishna consciousness.
3) We make it easy to give Krishna consciousness to others.
You’ve established two components:
1) A transcendental nightclub and party scene – the Loft.
2) The contemporary Vedic ashram.
All the while Srila Prabhupada’s books remains the bedrock for all our activities that keeps us rooted firm on the ground.
I can’t find the words to describe my utmost fortune and gratitude to be part of such a dynamic venture. It’s been at least fifteen years and running since I’ve grown up in your spiritual corporation; I’ve witnessed it unfold, evolve and blossom into a cutting-edge network for Lord Caitanya’s pleasure.
Furthermore your latest title; ‘Hiding in Unnatural Happiness’ has seen many people desiring to connect with Srila Prabhupada’s books. I’ve seen it work as a complete bridge for all audiences to crave the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam.
Your writing is an expression of compassion, consistent to the essence of sastra, made pertinent to current affairs and serve always to the pulse and punch of where people are most needy – genius to say the least!
Your carefully crafted words resonate with such a wide crowd that we’ve sold over 20,000 copies of HIUH in NZ. You are comparable to a modern day Sukadeva Gosvami, because Prabhupada explains in the first Canto that Sukadeva Gosvami was famous for his ability to present spiritual matters in a manner that would appeal to all classes of men. (SB1.1.3 purport)
The spiritual enthusiasm you inject into the hearts of whom you speak and the ease by which you bring them to devotional service is a testimony to your spiritual stature – this is a sure sign of uttama adhikar.
Your books, your ambient nightclubs, your contemporary Vedic ashrams are all a symphonic effort to hi-jack the deviant mentality of the conditioned soul and re-route them to the spiritual world.
And when it comes to rejuvenating for Krishna, you know the best beaches and hang out spots to chill out with your comrades. You displayed this when you kindly brought me to Jagannatha Puri last year. You showed by example how one needs revive for Krishna’s service by hearing and chanting with cherished god brothers.
In Jagannatha Puri, you and Guru Prasad Maharaj would meet Niranjan Maharaj in his room and speak confidentially every evening to churn the nectar of Krishna katha, just like Mahaprabhu would do with Ramanada Raya and His intimate associates.
During the day you would go to different sacred places to hear and chant the glories of Lord Caitanya with rapt attention. You always appeared absorbed in bhajan and relished the mellows of Mahaprabhu’s pastimes.
We did Harinam in the jungles of Puri and visited the temple of Olarnantha, where you gracefully placed your head on the feet of Lord Caitanya’s imprints from the stone he melted in His ecstasy.
Sometimes you went to the beach with Niranjan Maharaj to chant and speak privately with him, while Guru Prasad Maharaj was in ecstasy body-surfing the waves.
Standing by the Garuda Stambha, outside the Jagannatha temple you looked so delighted chanting with your god brothers, where Mahaprabhu would sometimes gaze before entering.
You were very merciful to me by removing my university misconceptions and teamed up with Guru Prasad Maharaj to smash my notions to pieces.
You did all these things to recharge whilst gathering the strength for your intense eating, sleeping and meeting program at the annual GBC conferences in Mayapur.
Your conduct is sublime and you outreach with the vigor of a lion and the affection of a Bengali mother. Witnessing your behavior and love for bringing people to Krishna consciousness, you simultaneously perform your duties to the Holy name – which according to Sanatana Gosvami defines a spiritual master of the world. (CC Ant 4.103 purport).
Some preach nicely, but don’t behave properly; while others behave nicely, but don’t preach. In all circumstances you’re showing by example what it means to be a wholesome and mature Vaisnava in Srila Prabhupada’s ISKCON:
1) By establishing your company culture, you’ve demonstrated how one should preach effectively in the Western world.
2) By taking me to the holy dhama you’ve exhibited how one should relax, revive and have exquisite dealings in the association of devotees.
I am eternally indebted and proud for this opportunity to serve and be part of your enterprise.
Determined to be your obedient and selfless servant.
Hriman Krishna das
Indranila devi dasi
Dear Gurumaharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to your lotusfeet.
Daily prayers upon me of compassion,
A masters passion.
He walks with humbled feet
In Krsna’s hands his heartbeat.
Radha Krsna’s lotusfeet prostration
Goura Nitai’s lotusfeet inclination.
He travels far and wide,
To all species rescue and to guide.
With no distinction to cast or race,
An outpouring of selfless grace.
He uses his remarkable intelligence,
To clarify and illuminate peoples arrogance.
He studies and observes all that goes around
He’s a Prabhupada warrior that ignorance burns down.
For what else is he to do?
In Srila Prabhupada’s care he grew.
Taught to love beyond me and you,
Part of Krsna’s eternal few.
He prays every day more intensely,
Awaiting his fate gently.
How can we measure up to him?
Us doing everything on a whim.
Best to follow in his ways
And give him all the praise.
To work hard for our Lord
Without expecting any reward.
To remember our vows we made
And not let them fade.
To chant to our hearts content,
To our master a gift present.
Your servant,
Indranila devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to your lotusfeet.
Daily prayers upon me of compassion,
A masters passion.
He walks with humbled feet
In Krsna’s hands his heartbeat.
Radha Krsna’s lotusfeet prostration
Goura Nitai’s lotusfeet inclination.
He travels far and wide,
To all species rescue and to guide.
With no distinction to cast or race,
An outpouring of selfless grace.
He uses his remarkable intelligence,
To clarify and illuminate peoples arrogance.
He studies and observes all that goes around
He’s a Prabhupada warrior that ignorance burns down.
For what else is he to do?
In Srila Prabhupada’s care he grew.
Taught to love beyond me and you,
Part of Krsna’s eternal few.
He prays every day more intensely,
Awaiting his fate gently.
How can we measure up to him?
Us doing everything on a whim.
Best to follow in his ways
And give him all the praise.
To work hard for our Lord
Without expecting any reward.
To remember our vows we made
And not let them fade.
To chant to our hearts content,
To our master a gift present.
Your servant,
Indranila devi dasi
Isvar Candra das and bhaktin Kalina
Hare Krisha, Guru Maharaj.
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
We would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts that despite the fact that we don’t deserve it you very mercifully accepted us as your disciples. We were headed towards a foolish and nondharmic way of life, but you personally came and rescue us from this danger. Your lectures, kirtans and instructions are our guidelines on the path of devotional service. You inspire us to be better and better devotees. Your transcendental qualities are source of enthusiasm for us.
We are most unqualified and foolish and we praising you will be like a baby trying to speak to its parents. We may try, but we fear that the result will not be pleasing.
We apologize for our mistakes and offences and beg for your mercy.
We will put our efforts in making our life pleasing for you, Srila Prabhupada and Krishna.
trying to be your servants,
Isvar Candra das and bhaktin Kalina
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
We would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts that despite the fact that we don’t deserve it you very mercifully accepted us as your disciples. We were headed towards a foolish and nondharmic way of life, but you personally came and rescue us from this danger. Your lectures, kirtans and instructions are our guidelines on the path of devotional service. You inspire us to be better and better devotees. Your transcendental qualities are source of enthusiasm for us.
We are most unqualified and foolish and we praising you will be like a baby trying to speak to its parents. We may try, but we fear that the result will not be pleasing.
We apologize for our mistakes and offences and beg for your mercy.
We will put our efforts in making our life pleasing for you, Srila Prabhupada and Krishna.
trying to be your servants,
Isvar Candra das and bhaktin Kalina
Isvari Kesavi Devi Dasi
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
In the words of Sly And The Family Stone, "It's a family affair..."
I want to express my deep gratitude to you Gurudev, for adopting me into this amazing family and community. Because of your glorious efforts and endeavours to start up these unique preaching centres like Bhakti Lounge and The Loft, you've made it easy for persons like myself to come and grow in Krishna Consciousness.
"Just as a father proudly and happily observes the good qualities of his children, the Lord is most happy to glorify the pure living beings who are powerful in Krishna consciousness." (Sb 10.63.46)
Today is the day I get to glorify you.
You are a powerful preacher. That power manifests in your abilities to connect with every living entity that comes into your presence. You leave a deep and profound impression on so many people whether it's through your personal association or through your eloquent writings. Anything you write or publish is truly a masterpiece as you poetically deliver the most confidential and transcendental topics. Your Hiding In Unnatural Happiness continues to impress the streets of Wellington. Whether I'm taking to someone at Krishna Food, Bhakti Lounge or one of my god sisters or brothers your scholarly presentation always blows them out of the water.
You have a heart of gold. The emphasis you put on devotee care is commendable and has inspired me to become qualified to one day be able to care for devotees to the extent that you do. You have implemented such a notable culture and community of care and taking guidance where anyone who enters the shelter of you or your disciples can really receive genuine advice and support. This is truly amazing. I've heard that in the outside world no one gives a damn about you. This is not to be said in any community or centre you are overseeing. Thank you for instilling a mood of love and trust. It is the hook, line and sinker for most.
You are personal. As you travel the globe, visiting numerous places, devotional communities, universities, yoga studios etc, meeting so many different people, you always make yourself available and personally give so much of your time and energy. When you come to Wellington I take pleasure noticing how after you give a talk you stick around. Making your way to every table, like an excellent host you make sure everyone is happy and satisfied. Whether you are catching up with certain faces you recognize or meeting new people you leave each person feeling special and honored to have had some of your personal time.
I can't imagine how many different situations you deal with on a daily basis with a wide range of subject matters. And yet when I reach out to you your always there for me. You are very understanding, non judgmental and realistic. Thank you for letting me be myself.
Your the anchor to my boat. You ground and center me. I endeavour to one day become steady so I can do something of use to assist you in your service to Srila Prabhupada. I beg you to continue to be there with me at every step.
"Anyone can be purified if he takes shelter of a pure devotee and molds his character according to the pure devotee's direction." (Sb 6.12.20)
I am praying for the day where I am able to this and actively take your instructions seriously. Thank you for being patient with me, I don't intend to make you wait around forever.
Your daughter,
Isvari Kesavi Devi Dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
In the words of Sly And The Family Stone, "It's a family affair..."
I want to express my deep gratitude to you Gurudev, for adopting me into this amazing family and community. Because of your glorious efforts and endeavours to start up these unique preaching centres like Bhakti Lounge and The Loft, you've made it easy for persons like myself to come and grow in Krishna Consciousness.
"Just as a father proudly and happily observes the good qualities of his children, the Lord is most happy to glorify the pure living beings who are powerful in Krishna consciousness." (Sb 10.63.46)
Today is the day I get to glorify you.
You are a powerful preacher. That power manifests in your abilities to connect with every living entity that comes into your presence. You leave a deep and profound impression on so many people whether it's through your personal association or through your eloquent writings. Anything you write or publish is truly a masterpiece as you poetically deliver the most confidential and transcendental topics. Your Hiding In Unnatural Happiness continues to impress the streets of Wellington. Whether I'm taking to someone at Krishna Food, Bhakti Lounge or one of my god sisters or brothers your scholarly presentation always blows them out of the water.
You have a heart of gold. The emphasis you put on devotee care is commendable and has inspired me to become qualified to one day be able to care for devotees to the extent that you do. You have implemented such a notable culture and community of care and taking guidance where anyone who enters the shelter of you or your disciples can really receive genuine advice and support. This is truly amazing. I've heard that in the outside world no one gives a damn about you. This is not to be said in any community or centre you are overseeing. Thank you for instilling a mood of love and trust. It is the hook, line and sinker for most.
You are personal. As you travel the globe, visiting numerous places, devotional communities, universities, yoga studios etc, meeting so many different people, you always make yourself available and personally give so much of your time and energy. When you come to Wellington I take pleasure noticing how after you give a talk you stick around. Making your way to every table, like an excellent host you make sure everyone is happy and satisfied. Whether you are catching up with certain faces you recognize or meeting new people you leave each person feeling special and honored to have had some of your personal time.
I can't imagine how many different situations you deal with on a daily basis with a wide range of subject matters. And yet when I reach out to you your always there for me. You are very understanding, non judgmental and realistic. Thank you for letting me be myself.
Your the anchor to my boat. You ground and center me. I endeavour to one day become steady so I can do something of use to assist you in your service to Srila Prabhupada. I beg you to continue to be there with me at every step.
"Anyone can be purified if he takes shelter of a pure devotee and molds his character according to the pure devotee's direction." (Sb 6.12.20)
I am praying for the day where I am able to this and actively take your instructions seriously. Thank you for being patient with me, I don't intend to make you wait around forever.
Your daughter,
Isvari Kesavi Devi Dasi
Jack Dodson
Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obesciences at your lotus feet.
There is nothing that I can say that would adequately describe the debt that I owe to you. Even a year ago, I would not have thought that I would be in the place that I am today. I first wish to give you my thanks for your causeless mercy that you have showered onto me.
What can I offer to you that you do not already have? Just as the father has everything that belongs to his young son, you already have everything that belongs to me. I have no fine clothes, no land, no possesions that I can offer you. I can only humbly offer the small charity of my insignificant service.
Your aspiring servant,
Jack
Please accept my humble obesciences at your lotus feet.
There is nothing that I can say that would adequately describe the debt that I owe to you. Even a year ago, I would not have thought that I would be in the place that I am today. I first wish to give you my thanks for your causeless mercy that you have showered onto me.
What can I offer to you that you do not already have? Just as the father has everything that belongs to his young son, you already have everything that belongs to me. I have no fine clothes, no land, no possesions that I can offer you. I can only humbly offer the small charity of my insignificant service.
Your aspiring servant,
Jack
Jahnavi Jivan Devi Dasi
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept our humble obeisance’s to your lotus feet on this auspicious appearance day of you.
I feel most fortunate to be able to see the live Vyasa puja celebrations. This will be one more memorable events in my life.
Guru Maharaj, thank you so much to accept this unworthy fallen soul as your disciple. Deep in my heart I feel so much indebted to you.
Maharaja, as a divine touch through your unlimited mercy, I met pure devotees of the Lord here in Melbourne Mahaprabhu Madir. Under their loving friendship and guidance, later on I happen to meet you first time in New Nadagram Farm retreat in 2004. That was my first retreat of such kind in my life time to attend and I feel Krishna has kindly arranged everything for me to able to understand the process of practicing Bhakti Yoga. Thank you for being so kind and tolerant to me. Despite of my many shortfalls you still encourage me and keep me engaged in devotional service.
As mentioned in CC Madhya 22.55
sadhu sanga sadhu sanga sarva sastra kaya
lava matra sadhu sange sarva siddhi haya
Maharaj, as you mentioned in your talk today, I sincerely started to do quality chanting every day early in the morning after attending Mangal Arti. And I see the difference in chanting process and also feeling the potency of Maha Mantra. This I realised recently when I met an accident at home. Last month, I fell in a bath tab and hit my eye just on to the water tap. I had a bad bleeding and I was shouting loudly without realising that I locked up in a bathroom and no one can come in to help me out in that critical situation. My husband and kids were away and my mother in law was in kitchen doing some cooking. Initially, I failed to call out for Krishna’s help and was shouting meaningless in fear. After few seconds, it striked me that there is no other way other than chanting the Lords names and accept whatever happens. Later I started chanting Mahamantra and the Lord’s names loudly and then Krishna gave me the intelligence that, I opened my bathroom door and called the ambulance and started to flush as much as water in to my eye to control the bleeding. In 20 mins, I see the miracle that the bleeding stopped before the para medical team arrived. I thought I may loose my vision, but due to Guru and Krishna’s mercy I was protected from the dangerous situation. There was no damage to my eye and I recovered in one week’s time. This incident has increased my faith in Krishna and my determination to do attentive chanting.
I am struggling to find time to read Srila Prabhupad’s books due to my demanding duty as mother looking after two energetic boys. I took up doing the courses in the Temple so that I can commit to my self and at least in this way I can pull out sometime to read Srila Prabhupada’s books. I think deep in my heart while reading books that how much dedication and sincerity you have in following Srila Prabhupada’s instructions as it is. I can’t imagine how much pleasure you must be getting by preaching and continuing the mission of Srila Prabhupada. You are a perfect example to this modern age materialistic people in showing how to put into practice and apply the bhakti yoga process. As your disciple, not for the name sake, I desire to follow your instructions to read and distribute Srila Prabhupada books. I pray to Srila Prabhupada and beg your kind blessings so that I can be able to read all the books before I leave this body.
We are just taking tiny steps in preaching to new people. Please continue to give your mercy so our family can be an instrument in which ever little way you feel like in your mission of spreading this Krishna Conscious moment. Please give your blessings to my kids so they become devotees of the Lord.
On this most auspicious day I pray to the Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vallabha, Gaura Nitai and Jagannath Baladev Subhadra for your good health so that many more fallen souls like me take up the process of bhakti yoga.
Your insignificant servant,
Jahanvi Jivan devi dasi
I pray to the Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vallabha, Gaura Nitai and Jagannatha,a Baladeva, and Subhadra Mayi for your good health.
Please accept our humble obeisance’s to your lotus feet on this auspicious appearance day of you.
I feel most fortunate to be able to see the live Vyasa puja celebrations. This will be one more memorable events in my life.
Guru Maharaj, thank you so much to accept this unworthy fallen soul as your disciple. Deep in my heart I feel so much indebted to you.
Maharaja, as a divine touch through your unlimited mercy, I met pure devotees of the Lord here in Melbourne Mahaprabhu Madir. Under their loving friendship and guidance, later on I happen to meet you first time in New Nadagram Farm retreat in 2004. That was my first retreat of such kind in my life time to attend and I feel Krishna has kindly arranged everything for me to able to understand the process of practicing Bhakti Yoga. Thank you for being so kind and tolerant to me. Despite of my many shortfalls you still encourage me and keep me engaged in devotional service.
As mentioned in CC Madhya 22.55
sadhu sanga sadhu sanga sarva sastra kaya
lava matra sadhu sange sarva siddhi haya
Maharaj, as you mentioned in your talk today, I sincerely started to do quality chanting every day early in the morning after attending Mangal Arti. And I see the difference in chanting process and also feeling the potency of Maha Mantra. This I realised recently when I met an accident at home. Last month, I fell in a bath tab and hit my eye just on to the water tap. I had a bad bleeding and I was shouting loudly without realising that I locked up in a bathroom and no one can come in to help me out in that critical situation. My husband and kids were away and my mother in law was in kitchen doing some cooking. Initially, I failed to call out for Krishna’s help and was shouting meaningless in fear. After few seconds, it striked me that there is no other way other than chanting the Lords names and accept whatever happens. Later I started chanting Mahamantra and the Lord’s names loudly and then Krishna gave me the intelligence that, I opened my bathroom door and called the ambulance and started to flush as much as water in to my eye to control the bleeding. In 20 mins, I see the miracle that the bleeding stopped before the para medical team arrived. I thought I may loose my vision, but due to Guru and Krishna’s mercy I was protected from the dangerous situation. There was no damage to my eye and I recovered in one week’s time. This incident has increased my faith in Krishna and my determination to do attentive chanting.
I am struggling to find time to read Srila Prabhupad’s books due to my demanding duty as mother looking after two energetic boys. I took up doing the courses in the Temple so that I can commit to my self and at least in this way I can pull out sometime to read Srila Prabhupada’s books. I think deep in my heart while reading books that how much dedication and sincerity you have in following Srila Prabhupada’s instructions as it is. I can’t imagine how much pleasure you must be getting by preaching and continuing the mission of Srila Prabhupada. You are a perfect example to this modern age materialistic people in showing how to put into practice and apply the bhakti yoga process. As your disciple, not for the name sake, I desire to follow your instructions to read and distribute Srila Prabhupada books. I pray to Srila Prabhupada and beg your kind blessings so that I can be able to read all the books before I leave this body.
We are just taking tiny steps in preaching to new people. Please continue to give your mercy so our family can be an instrument in which ever little way you feel like in your mission of spreading this Krishna Conscious moment. Please give your blessings to my kids so they become devotees of the Lord.
On this most auspicious day I pray to the Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vallabha, Gaura Nitai and Jagannath Baladev Subhadra for your good health so that many more fallen souls like me take up the process of bhakti yoga.
Your insignificant servant,
Jahanvi Jivan devi dasi
I pray to the Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vallabha, Gaura Nitai and Jagannatha,a Baladeva, and Subhadra Mayi for your good health.
Jai Saci Nandana das
Nama om visnu-padaya Krsna presthaya bhutale
Srimate devamrta swamin iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinitah
Paratatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te nama
Dearest Gurudev,
On this auspicious occasion of your Vysa Puja, I firstly would like to thank you for being present amongst your well-wishers, disciples and the Melbourne Congregation. It is truly a very special moment for all of us here to have your presence and grace.
Gurudev, your contribution to the youth and the youngsters from across continents and all walks of life is commendable. We live in era wherein the youth are misguided and confused and you stand as beacon of hope and guidance.
Gurudev you have provided not just shelters for these youth to experience bhakti but actual sanctuaries for these youth to understand and practice spiritual life. Through your preaching efforts you have deeply touched and transformed the life of many such youth right across the planet.
To take such an active interest in moulding the next generation and nurturing their spirituality is truly praiseworthy and your efforts are the hallmarks of a magnanimous leader and benefactor.
In reality, I just cannot do justice to the praise you deserve.
Gurudev, I would also like to thank you for your personal care, affection, guidance over all these years. I am someone who has immensely benefited from your love and care and feel indebted to you.
Lastly I pray to their lordships to always keep me under your shelter and as your menial servant.
Your servants
Jai Saci Nandana and baby Arjun
Srimate devamrta swamin iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinitah
Paratatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te nama
Dearest Gurudev,
On this auspicious occasion of your Vysa Puja, I firstly would like to thank you for being present amongst your well-wishers, disciples and the Melbourne Congregation. It is truly a very special moment for all of us here to have your presence and grace.
Gurudev, your contribution to the youth and the youngsters from across continents and all walks of life is commendable. We live in era wherein the youth are misguided and confused and you stand as beacon of hope and guidance.
Gurudev you have provided not just shelters for these youth to experience bhakti but actual sanctuaries for these youth to understand and practice spiritual life. Through your preaching efforts you have deeply touched and transformed the life of many such youth right across the planet.
To take such an active interest in moulding the next generation and nurturing their spirituality is truly praiseworthy and your efforts are the hallmarks of a magnanimous leader and benefactor.
In reality, I just cannot do justice to the praise you deserve.
Gurudev, I would also like to thank you for your personal care, affection, guidance over all these years. I am someone who has immensely benefited from your love and care and feel indebted to you.
Lastly I pray to their lordships to always keep me under your shelter and as your menial servant.
Your servants
Jai Saci Nandana and baby Arjun
Janesvari devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Your divine spiritual Master, Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to Your Divine lotus feet on the auspicious celebration of Your appearance in this world!!
As I reflect on the past 14 & a half years, since I was first introduced to Your transcendental association and shelter,
I experience a deep sense of gratitude, commitment and helplessness.
Gratitude for all Your inconceivable mercy & compassion upon this fallen soul.
Commitment to try and repay my spiritual debt to You for all that You've done & are doing for me & my children.
And helplessness in realizing how deeply rooted my material consciousness is.
The ultimate goal of Bhakti, pure unalloyed devotional service to Sri Guru, Sri Gauranga, the Vaisnavas & the Divine couple, Sri sri Radha & Krsna seem so far away.
However, having received a drop of Your causeless mercy, which is the only worthwhile endeavor striving for in this world, keeps me somehow or other afloat in this ocean of material suffering.
Recently I discovered an 'old' Gaura Yoga CD, and while listening to the kirtan by one of Your senior disciples, I couldn't help but cry tears of joy & separation from You and our beloved God-family.
It made me realize once again what a precious gift You have given us, through devotee association.
These yearly 'recharge festivals' are always the highlight, where we can come together to hear, chant & dance in ecstacy under Your loving & caring guidance.
Although I'm not qualified to receive Your mercy, I pray that You will somehow or other keep me in Your prayers, so that I will be able to always remember Your lotus feet & develop an eagerness to render some meaningful service to You & Srila Prabhupada's Sankirtan mission.
Always seeking Your mercy,
Your aspiring servant,
Janesvari devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Your divine spiritual Master, Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to Your Divine lotus feet on the auspicious celebration of Your appearance in this world!!
As I reflect on the past 14 & a half years, since I was first introduced to Your transcendental association and shelter,
I experience a deep sense of gratitude, commitment and helplessness.
Gratitude for all Your inconceivable mercy & compassion upon this fallen soul.
Commitment to try and repay my spiritual debt to You for all that You've done & are doing for me & my children.
And helplessness in realizing how deeply rooted my material consciousness is.
The ultimate goal of Bhakti, pure unalloyed devotional service to Sri Guru, Sri Gauranga, the Vaisnavas & the Divine couple, Sri sri Radha & Krsna seem so far away.
However, having received a drop of Your causeless mercy, which is the only worthwhile endeavor striving for in this world, keeps me somehow or other afloat in this ocean of material suffering.
Recently I discovered an 'old' Gaura Yoga CD, and while listening to the kirtan by one of Your senior disciples, I couldn't help but cry tears of joy & separation from You and our beloved God-family.
It made me realize once again what a precious gift You have given us, through devotee association.
These yearly 'recharge festivals' are always the highlight, where we can come together to hear, chant & dance in ecstacy under Your loving & caring guidance.
Although I'm not qualified to receive Your mercy, I pray that You will somehow or other keep me in Your prayers, so that I will be able to always remember Your lotus feet & develop an eagerness to render some meaningful service to You & Srila Prabhupada's Sankirtan mission.
Always seeking Your mercy,
Your aspiring servant,
Janesvari devi dasi
Jax (Amakaya)
Nama om vishnu-padaya krishna-presthaya bhu-tale
Shrimate devamrita-swamin iti namine
Pracare-purva-daksyam-ca bhaktacara-pravinata
Pararthathapi-karunyam yasya sarve ca te namaha
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance. And all glories to Srila Prabhupada!
“It is said that the beauty of a tapasvī, or saintly person, is forgiveness.” (SB 4.6.48 Purport)
I wish I had the knowledge to properly glorify you. You who have opened my eyes to the exorbitant amount of suffering in the material world, You have shown me what real happiness is, by chanting and dancing and most importantly have given me a reason to live and a reason to die.
Gurudeva I wanted to especially thank you for your forgiving nature. This has given me so much encouragement. In verse 48, chapter 6, Canto 4, of SB Lord Brahmā says, “materialists, who are already bewildered by the insurmountable illusory energy of the Supreme Godhead, sometimes commit offenses, a saintly person, with compassion, does not take this seriously. Knowing that they commit offenses because they are overpowered by the illusory energy.” Thank you for taking pity and forgiving this very fallen soul who can't even stay awake for a 45 min Bhagavatam class.
In a Darshan I had with you when I first arrived in Wellington in 2016 I remember you said something to me that I found completely crazy. You were retelling to me how a couple months before I had said that I was going to go back to Colorado to study in a tiny university but, still wanted to keep in contact with devotees. You were telling me how you simply got in contact with your associated in Colorado to check if there were any programs/ devotees in that area so that I could still have the association. Hearing this I was completely flabbergasted. Thinking ‘who would take the time out of their day to check to make sure I was taken care of in that way? Who would do something like that? That's wow…’ I was completely shocked, no one had ever done something like that for me before, especially someone in such a high position as yourself. I realized I had never experienced real human kindness before. I remember my first time at the Loft in Auckland I was so euphoric almost intoxicated with the enthusiastic attitude the devotees had about sharing Krishna consciousness with everyone. It was glorious and contagious. In almost every Darshan since you have instructed me to “ use my enthusiastic attitude in spreading/ attracting people to, Lord Chaitanya's mission”.
When I was 18 (that's about 1/4th of the average lifespan for US females) my greatest realization was that if I took 2 Tabs of LSD with 3-4 shots of tequila I would get the perfect High. Such a waste of this human form life. I've wasted so many lives in the pursuit of material happiness acting like an animal. I'm eternally in debt to you for giving me the opportunity to make the most out of this human life. Thank you for all the instructions and guidance you have so generously given me thus far. Please forgive me for having such a thick skull, for still struggling with the basics: staying awake, offending devotees, developing compassion, etc.. But by your mercy, I have developed a taste for the ambrosia of the Krishna conscious lifestyle.
I pray to be of some service to you,
Your aspiring servant,
Jax (Amakaya)
Jayadeva Kavi das
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances at your feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Today I want to appreciate your transcendental compassion. There are so many "nice guys" in this world; people ready to encourage one by offering false accolades and flattering words that actually offer no real benefit. In your interactions with others, I've noticed you don't want people to remain so-called happy in a comfortable ignorance, but you want to elevate them to a higher level of consciousness.
In the world a common phrase is heard, something along the lines of: "with difficult times come the opportunity to grow and become stronger." This also holds true in devotional life. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura even went as far as saying, "Those favoured by God find their path set by thorns." The idea is that advancing in devotional life, or becoming Krishna conscious is not a small thing. As others will attest in their own lives, these struggles are something I've also experienced in my short decade of practicing bhakti.
If we simply live a so-called easy life in our own comfort zone, hanging on to our same attachments and the material conceptions lingering from a life prior to being with devotees, bhakti advancement will be very slow.
I write about this because you, Gurudeva, desire everyone you come in contact with to advance in their spiritual life. Therefore, at the cost of our personal comfort, you are always trying to help your disciples – or anyone under your care – to go beyond their personal bubble of security and connect with Krishna through selfless service. You want to bring out the best in us. And for this I am grateful.
Thank you for being tolerant and patient with me Gurudeva. As a diamond is formed under intense pressure, please bless us to develop the Vaishnava qualities needed to render better service to you, to Srila Prabhupada's mission, for Krishna's pleasure. I'm so grateful to have you as my spiritual master. Who wouldn't want to have someone in their life who is always looking after their highest welfare?
Your servant,
Jayadeva Kavi das
Please accept my humble obeisances at your feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Today I want to appreciate your transcendental compassion. There are so many "nice guys" in this world; people ready to encourage one by offering false accolades and flattering words that actually offer no real benefit. In your interactions with others, I've noticed you don't want people to remain so-called happy in a comfortable ignorance, but you want to elevate them to a higher level of consciousness.
In the world a common phrase is heard, something along the lines of: "with difficult times come the opportunity to grow and become stronger." This also holds true in devotional life. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura even went as far as saying, "Those favoured by God find their path set by thorns." The idea is that advancing in devotional life, or becoming Krishna conscious is not a small thing. As others will attest in their own lives, these struggles are something I've also experienced in my short decade of practicing bhakti.
If we simply live a so-called easy life in our own comfort zone, hanging on to our same attachments and the material conceptions lingering from a life prior to being with devotees, bhakti advancement will be very slow.
I write about this because you, Gurudeva, desire everyone you come in contact with to advance in their spiritual life. Therefore, at the cost of our personal comfort, you are always trying to help your disciples – or anyone under your care – to go beyond their personal bubble of security and connect with Krishna through selfless service. You want to bring out the best in us. And for this I am grateful.
Thank you for being tolerant and patient with me Gurudeva. As a diamond is formed under intense pressure, please bless us to develop the Vaishnava qualities needed to render better service to you, to Srila Prabhupada's mission, for Krishna's pleasure. I'm so grateful to have you as my spiritual master. Who wouldn't want to have someone in their life who is always looking after their highest welfare?
Your servant,
Jayadeva Kavi das
Jīva Doya dāsa
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to you who are such a wonderful disciple of Śrīla Prabhupāda.
harer nāma harer nāma harer nāmaiva kevalam
kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva nāsty eva gatir anyathā
Thank you, Gurudeva, for blessing me with the chanting of the holy names of Kṛṣṇa. I pray that I may never give up my vow of daily chanting ‘hare kṛṣṇa hare kṛṣṇa kṛṣṇa kṛṣṇa hare hare hare rāma hare rāma rāma rāma hare hare’ at least one thousand seven hundred and twenty eight times on beads every day. Five years ago I made a promise to you that I would perform this vow, and on this auspicious day I would like to seek your blessings so that I can take this practice more seriously, executing it diligently with sincere enthusiasm and steadiness to achieve the goal of loving attraction for Kṛṣṇa’s divine names.
I have heard it said that kanistha devotees sometimes chant Kṛṣṇa’s names; that madhyama devotees always chant Kṛṣṇa’s names; and that uttama devotees cause others to chant Kṛṣṇa’s names.
Thank you for exerting your uttama-bhakti influence on me, so that I am now sometimes chanting Kṛṣṇa’s names with the hope that I can increase my chanting, in both quantity and quality.
Your servant,
Jīva Doya dāsa
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to you who are such a wonderful disciple of Śrīla Prabhupāda.
harer nāma harer nāma harer nāmaiva kevalam
kalau nāsty eva nāsty eva nāsty eva gatir anyathā
Thank you, Gurudeva, for blessing me with the chanting of the holy names of Kṛṣṇa. I pray that I may never give up my vow of daily chanting ‘hare kṛṣṇa hare kṛṣṇa kṛṣṇa kṛṣṇa hare hare hare rāma hare rāma rāma rāma hare hare’ at least one thousand seven hundred and twenty eight times on beads every day. Five years ago I made a promise to you that I would perform this vow, and on this auspicious day I would like to seek your blessings so that I can take this practice more seriously, executing it diligently with sincere enthusiasm and steadiness to achieve the goal of loving attraction for Kṛṣṇa’s divine names.
I have heard it said that kanistha devotees sometimes chant Kṛṣṇa’s names; that madhyama devotees always chant Kṛṣṇa’s names; and that uttama devotees cause others to chant Kṛṣṇa’s names.
Thank you for exerting your uttama-bhakti influence on me, so that I am now sometimes chanting Kṛṣṇa’s names with the hope that I can increase my chanting, in both quantity and quality.
Your servant,
Jīva Doya dāsa
Jiva-maya devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I recently listened to a lecture you gave in Silicon Valley about the Mystery of Bhagavad-Gita.
It is the perfect example of how spiritual truth can stretch us, satisfy us and also entertain us.
You talked about how "we" worry that persons reading Bhagavad-Gita for the first time will find certain statements challenging and lose interest. Yet how, in practise, they rarely do and somehow breeze straight past these "controversial" concepts!
You told it with such humour and accuracy, it was so jovial yet so heavy and instructive.
That we should not treat the sastra, Krishna or His devotees impersonally. We should not try to control or use what little energy we have worrying about whether Krishna really is in control and whether things will be okay.
Real action with detachment.
I pray to put my (energetic) money where my mouth is and trust in Krishna, and that your satisfaction is the safest, most secure investment I can make in this unsafe, insecure world.
Souls coming to the your most merciful feet is the highest joy for all involved, and whether it's by myself or others I seriously desire that as many as possible be brought to find shelter there and in Srila Prabhupada's books.
I pray you stay healthy, strong and fiery - in burning our illusions and impurities with such beauty and intensity.
Your servant,
Jiva-maya devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I recently listened to a lecture you gave in Silicon Valley about the Mystery of Bhagavad-Gita.
It is the perfect example of how spiritual truth can stretch us, satisfy us and also entertain us.
You talked about how "we" worry that persons reading Bhagavad-Gita for the first time will find certain statements challenging and lose interest. Yet how, in practise, they rarely do and somehow breeze straight past these "controversial" concepts!
You told it with such humour and accuracy, it was so jovial yet so heavy and instructive.
That we should not treat the sastra, Krishna or His devotees impersonally. We should not try to control or use what little energy we have worrying about whether Krishna really is in control and whether things will be okay.
Real action with detachment.
I pray to put my (energetic) money where my mouth is and trust in Krishna, and that your satisfaction is the safest, most secure investment I can make in this unsafe, insecure world.
Souls coming to the your most merciful feet is the highest joy for all involved, and whether it's by myself or others I seriously desire that as many as possible be brought to find shelter there and in Srila Prabhupada's books.
I pray you stay healthy, strong and fiery - in burning our illusions and impurities with such beauty and intensity.
Your servant,
Jiva-maya devi dasi
Kalyani Radha devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabupada. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
nama om visnu - padaya
krsna – presthaya bhu-tale
srimate Devamrita -
swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
You plucked a slowly drowning soul out of a whirlpool and placed her on soft ground.
You give hope to the hopeless
Meaning to a life devoid of direction
You are truth in a world of lies
A true well wisher in a society of insincerity
Your words turn on a light
A spark illuminating a darkened tunnel
For many who wander lost
The Bhakti Lounge you started
Is a haven for the soul
An oasis in the jungle
It really is a home
You have true compassion
Throwing pearls before a swine
Placing a diamond in the hands of a child
I hope one day grow a bit
See the beauty of what I possess
And use it, don’t lose it
Hold the precious item secure
It wasn’t till after meeting you
I realised that before
I couldn’t breath
Life before Bhakti now seems a blur
Frightening, confusing, a world on speed
Slowly and gradually
I feel my way in
Year after year
One toe at a time
the ocean of Bhakti not as cold as it seems
You show us that
Life is more than just
Work, buy, consume, and die
You show how to live with meaning
Fulfil our potential, be what we are supposed to be
Take a running jump off the karmic merry go round
And land safely in Bhakti
I hope to truly one day, open my ears
Take your words heart
Aid you in the mission
Throw aside false ego
Desire for personal gain
Give it all to Krishna
And life will not be in vain
Striving to be your servant and your daughter,
Kalyani Radha Devi Dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabupada. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
nama om visnu - padaya
krsna – presthaya bhu-tale
srimate Devamrita -
swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
You plucked a slowly drowning soul out of a whirlpool and placed her on soft ground.
You give hope to the hopeless
Meaning to a life devoid of direction
You are truth in a world of lies
A true well wisher in a society of insincerity
Your words turn on a light
A spark illuminating a darkened tunnel
For many who wander lost
The Bhakti Lounge you started
Is a haven for the soul
An oasis in the jungle
It really is a home
You have true compassion
Throwing pearls before a swine
Placing a diamond in the hands of a child
I hope one day grow a bit
See the beauty of what I possess
And use it, don’t lose it
Hold the precious item secure
It wasn’t till after meeting you
I realised that before
I couldn’t breath
Life before Bhakti now seems a blur
Frightening, confusing, a world on speed
Slowly and gradually
I feel my way in
Year after year
One toe at a time
the ocean of Bhakti not as cold as it seems
You show us that
Life is more than just
Work, buy, consume, and die
You show how to live with meaning
Fulfil our potential, be what we are supposed to be
Take a running jump off the karmic merry go round
And land safely in Bhakti
I hope to truly one day, open my ears
Take your words heart
Aid you in the mission
Throw aside false ego
Desire for personal gain
Give it all to Krishna
And life will not be in vain
Striving to be your servant and your daughter,
Kalyani Radha Devi Dasi
Kamsari Sena dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my respectful obeisances unto your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to your Divine Grace.
On this most auspicious day of your divine appearance I wanted to thank you for giving me devotional service. That although I never desired it I now have this greatest of all treasures simply by your mercy.
Sri Prahlada Maharaja tells his father that one cannot become Krsna conscious, not by his own endeavours, by others no by combination of both if he is determined to rot in material existence. By such foolhardy attempts at lording over material nature one cannot ascertain that the goal of one's life - to achieve Visnu. While struggling for existence they voluntarily follow other such foolish persons. But there is a way out:
mahīyasāṁ pāda-rajo-’bhiṣekaṁ
niṣkiñcanānāṁ na vṛṇīta yāvat
(SB 7.5.32)
By taking the dust of the lotus feet of the vaisnavas who are completely free from all material contamination and are cent percent attached to the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord, Sri Krsna.
Oh how fortunate we are! Despite our endeavours to exploit material nature, thus making ourselves completely unqualified for devotional service, Gurudeva, you elevate us to a position to be able to render service to Sri Krsna. Furthermore even though we slip and trip, O Gurudeva who are completely attached to the Lord's lotus feet, as our loving spiritual father, you still expertly engage us in Lord Caitanya’s sankirtan movement. By following your instructions we too gradually develop more attached the Lord and purified of material contamination.
As Mahaprabhu toured South India, He would leave each village embracing each person who chanted and followed Him thereby empowering them with spiritual potency. With this empowerment they would further induce other villagers to chant and empower them to go to other villages.
Srila Prabhupada writes that it is by this spiritual potency that one empowered with devotional service. And only the Lord and His representative can bestow such mercy. What do such empowered persons do with this mercy? We can see from your example that they give it to others. This mercy is available for all who are ready to embrace the mission of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu under the able guidance of His representatives, such as yourself.
Maya devi herself says to Srila Haridasa Thakura that by the mercy of Lord Caitanya all living entities are floating in the flood of the eternal nectar of love of Godhead. Yet one who do not float in this inundation is most condemned. Such a person cannot be delivered for millions of kalpas. (CC Madhya.3.254-255)
Being an authorised representative of the Lord, under the instructions of Srila Prabhupada, you are also sacrificing personal comforts by travelling and empowering others to be a part of this sankirtana movement helping them avoid further drowning in the ocean of material existence for millions of Brahma’s days.
By your mercy I avoided such a terrible fate. Your simple instruction to chant Hare Krsna has propelled me, empowered me, a condemned soul, into having the opportunity to perform confidential services to Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha and Their most intimate associates. Indeed I can only hope to attempt to repay you by assisting you in sharing Krsna consciousness with others.
You are are source of my good fortune. Therefore please give me more of your mercy so that I may be able to further appreciate my great fortune and to always remember that it is by your mercy that I can assist you in serving Srila Prabhupada, the Guru Parampara, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha.
Your servant,
Kamsari Sena dasa.
Please accept my respectful obeisances unto your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to your Divine Grace.
On this most auspicious day of your divine appearance I wanted to thank you for giving me devotional service. That although I never desired it I now have this greatest of all treasures simply by your mercy.
Sri Prahlada Maharaja tells his father that one cannot become Krsna conscious, not by his own endeavours, by others no by combination of both if he is determined to rot in material existence. By such foolhardy attempts at lording over material nature one cannot ascertain that the goal of one's life - to achieve Visnu. While struggling for existence they voluntarily follow other such foolish persons. But there is a way out:
mahīyasāṁ pāda-rajo-’bhiṣekaṁ
niṣkiñcanānāṁ na vṛṇīta yāvat
(SB 7.5.32)
By taking the dust of the lotus feet of the vaisnavas who are completely free from all material contamination and are cent percent attached to the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord, Sri Krsna.
Oh how fortunate we are! Despite our endeavours to exploit material nature, thus making ourselves completely unqualified for devotional service, Gurudeva, you elevate us to a position to be able to render service to Sri Krsna. Furthermore even though we slip and trip, O Gurudeva who are completely attached to the Lord's lotus feet, as our loving spiritual father, you still expertly engage us in Lord Caitanya’s sankirtan movement. By following your instructions we too gradually develop more attached the Lord and purified of material contamination.
As Mahaprabhu toured South India, He would leave each village embracing each person who chanted and followed Him thereby empowering them with spiritual potency. With this empowerment they would further induce other villagers to chant and empower them to go to other villages.
Srila Prabhupada writes that it is by this spiritual potency that one empowered with devotional service. And only the Lord and His representative can bestow such mercy. What do such empowered persons do with this mercy? We can see from your example that they give it to others. This mercy is available for all who are ready to embrace the mission of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu under the able guidance of His representatives, such as yourself.
Maya devi herself says to Srila Haridasa Thakura that by the mercy of Lord Caitanya all living entities are floating in the flood of the eternal nectar of love of Godhead. Yet one who do not float in this inundation is most condemned. Such a person cannot be delivered for millions of kalpas. (CC Madhya.3.254-255)
Being an authorised representative of the Lord, under the instructions of Srila Prabhupada, you are also sacrificing personal comforts by travelling and empowering others to be a part of this sankirtana movement helping them avoid further drowning in the ocean of material existence for millions of Brahma’s days.
By your mercy I avoided such a terrible fate. Your simple instruction to chant Hare Krsna has propelled me, empowered me, a condemned soul, into having the opportunity to perform confidential services to Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha and Their most intimate associates. Indeed I can only hope to attempt to repay you by assisting you in sharing Krsna consciousness with others.
You are are source of my good fortune. Therefore please give me more of your mercy so that I may be able to further appreciate my great fortune and to always remember that it is by your mercy that I can assist you in serving Srila Prabhupada, the Guru Parampara, Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and Sri Sri Radha Gopinatha.
Your servant,
Kamsari Sena dasa.
Kardami Kapila das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to You and all of Your amazing ISKCON family, children, students, followers, admirers and well wishers!
Let your appearance day be glorified in all the universe
This year Krishna gave me an exceptional mercy.
First by making me feel disappointment from the material world and opening my eyes to see how much I am in illusion. He showed me the difference between association with the nondevotees and with the devotees. I realize more and more that without the mercy of the devotees one can not escape the clutches of Maya.
And second was your unexpected visit in Bulgaria. It coincided with my material birthday. It was probably the best thing that ever happened to me. I will never forget your ecstatic kirtans and deep lectures.
But with all this mercy I still hanker over material enjoyment and desire to be the controller and enjoyer. I still desire to be without Krishna.
Why am I so miserable? Why I still don’t have the pure desire to take shelter of your lotus feet and instructions?
Why am I so stubborn?
Dear Gurudev I beg you to forgive my offences and to give me a chance to serve you and the devotees.
I remember one darsan where you gave me this prayer: “My dear Lord Krishna, please let me be attracted to You, in the same way the young boys are attracted to the girls and the girls are attracted to the boys.”
I hope this prayer will stuck in my mind and heart.
My initiation is the result of your mercy and the mercy of the devotees. I can see that I am a false devotee filled with disgusting material desires for pleasure and fame. I truly hope to become a devotee one day and to please you and Srila Prabhupada.
Gurumaharaj, I beg you to place me closer to the fire of the Sankirtana movement, that burns all material desires. Please let me stay always in the association of the devotees.
aspiring to be your servant,
Kardami Kapila das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to You and all of Your amazing ISKCON family, children, students, followers, admirers and well wishers!
Let your appearance day be glorified in all the universe
This year Krishna gave me an exceptional mercy.
First by making me feel disappointment from the material world and opening my eyes to see how much I am in illusion. He showed me the difference between association with the nondevotees and with the devotees. I realize more and more that without the mercy of the devotees one can not escape the clutches of Maya.
And second was your unexpected visit in Bulgaria. It coincided with my material birthday. It was probably the best thing that ever happened to me. I will never forget your ecstatic kirtans and deep lectures.
But with all this mercy I still hanker over material enjoyment and desire to be the controller and enjoyer. I still desire to be without Krishna.
Why am I so miserable? Why I still don’t have the pure desire to take shelter of your lotus feet and instructions?
Why am I so stubborn?
Dear Gurudev I beg you to forgive my offences and to give me a chance to serve you and the devotees.
I remember one darsan where you gave me this prayer: “My dear Lord Krishna, please let me be attracted to You, in the same way the young boys are attracted to the girls and the girls are attracted to the boys.”
I hope this prayer will stuck in my mind and heart.
My initiation is the result of your mercy and the mercy of the devotees. I can see that I am a false devotee filled with disgusting material desires for pleasure and fame. I truly hope to become a devotee one day and to please you and Srila Prabhupada.
Gurumaharaj, I beg you to place me closer to the fire of the Sankirtana movement, that burns all material desires. Please let me stay always in the association of the devotees.
aspiring to be your servant,
Kardami Kapila das
Karuna-purna dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisance. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and your most compassionate self on this auspicious day.
You are full of all good qualities such as humility, compassion and full surrender to the instructions of your spiritual master.
Lord Chaitanya prays in his Siksastaka (3) “One should chant the holy name of the Lord in a humble state of mind, thinking oneself lower than a straw in the street; one should be more tolerant than a tree, devoid of all sense of false prestige, and should be ready to offer all respects to others. In such a state of mind one can chant the holy name of the Lord constantly.”
This humility can be seen in your personal character. This was evidenced by your own response in an interview with David Roy Green from When, who expressed appreciation for your character and personality:
“Anything positive you see in me, I have to give the credit for that to Krishna’s instructions in Bhagavad-Gita… once you find out what you are part of, what you are meant to be connected to, then the natural good qualities, indeed the perfect and pure qualities of the atma, the spirit self, come out. That can happen to anyone. Of course, I still see that I have so far to go. And that feeling is a genuine part of spiritual development. You realize that there is unlimited spiritual progress that you can make. So, I’m happy that I’m moving in the right direction.”
“The symptoms of a sadhu are that he is tolerant, merciful and friendly to all living beings. He has no enemies, he is peaceful, he abides by the scriptures and all his characteristics are sublime.” (Srimad Bhagavatam 3.25.21)
This verse describes you very well. We can all feel your mercy and compassion touching our hearts and changing our lives. And without it our existence would be much less fortunate than what it is today. This compassion shone through later in the same interview, when you said:
“After six months of reading the books for four hours a day, without ever attending a gathering, I realized by studying the books that this was actually a practical solution to the world’s problems, which I was very concerned with.”
When the interviewer asked you “What is the biggest question you ask yourself?”
You replied: “How can I be of best service to all living entities in this short life? I spent eight years behind the Iron Curtain during the Soviet days, trying to spread knowledge of bhakti. The current environmental crisis of society affects me very much. I see that human beings have run out of answers in terms of what their systems can do. So, I think it is a great time right now to give the world the best knowledge.”
Your reply also shows your deep dedication to follow the instructions and fulfill the desire of your spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada. He writes in his purport to CC Adi 13.67 “A bona fide devotee of Lord Krishna is always pained to see the fallen condition of the whole world. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura used to say “There is no scarcity of anything in this world. The only scarcity is of Krishna Consciousness””
You certainly show this kind of compassion in action every day of your life, you live it every single moment of the day. Indeed, we never see you do or teach anything which is not a display of full humility, compassion and dedication to Srila Prabhupada.
Dear Gurudeva, please let me develop just a drop of the humility that you have – because my character lacks it quite badly (no joke).
Dear Gurudeva, please help me to clear all the billions of material desires that is holding me back from truly being a compassionate instrument in your service.
Dear Gurudeva, please let me never stray away from service at your lotus feet. I would rather that you chastise me very heavily than lose this rare and blissful opportunity.
Thank you for giving me your shelter.
Thank you for giving me purpose.
Thank you for correcting me.
Thank you for giving me everything I ever need.
Please forgive my foolishness and inability to take full advantage of your compassionate guidance.
With much love and gratitude,
Your servant and daughter Karuna-purna dasi
September 2017
Please accept my humble obeisance. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and your most compassionate self on this auspicious day.
You are full of all good qualities such as humility, compassion and full surrender to the instructions of your spiritual master.
Lord Chaitanya prays in his Siksastaka (3) “One should chant the holy name of the Lord in a humble state of mind, thinking oneself lower than a straw in the street; one should be more tolerant than a tree, devoid of all sense of false prestige, and should be ready to offer all respects to others. In such a state of mind one can chant the holy name of the Lord constantly.”
This humility can be seen in your personal character. This was evidenced by your own response in an interview with David Roy Green from When, who expressed appreciation for your character and personality:
“Anything positive you see in me, I have to give the credit for that to Krishna’s instructions in Bhagavad-Gita… once you find out what you are part of, what you are meant to be connected to, then the natural good qualities, indeed the perfect and pure qualities of the atma, the spirit self, come out. That can happen to anyone. Of course, I still see that I have so far to go. And that feeling is a genuine part of spiritual development. You realize that there is unlimited spiritual progress that you can make. So, I’m happy that I’m moving in the right direction.”
“The symptoms of a sadhu are that he is tolerant, merciful and friendly to all living beings. He has no enemies, he is peaceful, he abides by the scriptures and all his characteristics are sublime.” (Srimad Bhagavatam 3.25.21)
This verse describes you very well. We can all feel your mercy and compassion touching our hearts and changing our lives. And without it our existence would be much less fortunate than what it is today. This compassion shone through later in the same interview, when you said:
“After six months of reading the books for four hours a day, without ever attending a gathering, I realized by studying the books that this was actually a practical solution to the world’s problems, which I was very concerned with.”
When the interviewer asked you “What is the biggest question you ask yourself?”
You replied: “How can I be of best service to all living entities in this short life? I spent eight years behind the Iron Curtain during the Soviet days, trying to spread knowledge of bhakti. The current environmental crisis of society affects me very much. I see that human beings have run out of answers in terms of what their systems can do. So, I think it is a great time right now to give the world the best knowledge.”
Your reply also shows your deep dedication to follow the instructions and fulfill the desire of your spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada. He writes in his purport to CC Adi 13.67 “A bona fide devotee of Lord Krishna is always pained to see the fallen condition of the whole world. Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura used to say “There is no scarcity of anything in this world. The only scarcity is of Krishna Consciousness””
You certainly show this kind of compassion in action every day of your life, you live it every single moment of the day. Indeed, we never see you do or teach anything which is not a display of full humility, compassion and dedication to Srila Prabhupada.
Dear Gurudeva, please let me develop just a drop of the humility that you have – because my character lacks it quite badly (no joke).
Dear Gurudeva, please help me to clear all the billions of material desires that is holding me back from truly being a compassionate instrument in your service.
Dear Gurudeva, please let me never stray away from service at your lotus feet. I would rather that you chastise me very heavily than lose this rare and blissful opportunity.
Thank you for giving me your shelter.
Thank you for giving me purpose.
Thank you for correcting me.
Thank you for giving me everything I ever need.
Please forgive my foolishness and inability to take full advantage of your compassionate guidance.
With much love and gratitude,
Your servant and daughter Karuna-purna dasi
September 2017
Kasi Priya das
Hare Krishna Gurudeva
please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
And all glories to to you Gurumaharaja on this most auspicious day of your appearance in this world.
Struggling to find words of glorification and appreciation to offer to you, your Godbrother Vedavyasapriya Maharaja kindly appeared on the scene here at New Varshana to help to inspire your foolish disciple who is unable to grasp the extent of your mercy.
Maharaja was having an enlightening take on ‘Thanks Giving’. So I thought of what is it you gave me I’m the most grateful for?
Of course there are many things. Starting with you fishing me hopelessly clueless seeker out from the ocean of suffering and struggle in this material world with your transcendental sankirtan net of dedicated disciples reaching out on the streets and then sorting the catch out at the Loft. Not only that but then you allowed me maha-neophyte even to live and serve in the Brahmacari ashrama, which was the only option I would have accepted back then I believe to stay long enough to stick around. And that’s the perfect example how you accepted the fact that you are Krishna’s and Prabhupada’s tool and you are always listening to and allowing yourself to be guided by the directions of Krishna, sitting as the super soul in your heart. How else would you have made this exception? But you put exceptional efforts in to rescue all of us and whoever gets caught in your net. Thanks for your exceptional perseverance in your outreach activities!
Of course there are so many things to be grateful for like your tolerance by tolerating all my short comings and foolish actions. Then there is your care for everyone who wants and even doesn’t want it. Then there is the association of devotees you brought me in even though sometimes it seems hard to tolerate all that good fortune but I think devotees have a hard time with me too. You are also enabling us to see transformations happening in others and turning into devotees and that is very inspiring. There are so many things to be grateful for.
But am I the most grateful for? The answer came in Agnideva Prabhu’s kirtan, when he sang a tune you are singing too. Iron is not fire but iron touched by fire acts like fire. Similarly your pure chanting during kirtan simply electrifies. The Holy Name pouring forth from the mouth of the pure devotee pulls the listener out of this material environment and places him for the time being into the spiritual world. And of all the kirtans it is the kirtans on our yearly festivals you are facilitating, that are the most amazing experience. There at Krishna Kunja, time collapses as soon as you infectiously chant Krishna’s holy names, carrying us all in the Krishna Kunja Vaikuntha airplane out of this material world directly to Goloka Vrindavan in an instant. Arriving there makes me feel as if I never left. With your chanting you allow us to taste the nectar I have to admit I couldn’t really say I am anxious for. Like Lord Caitanya you open the store house of love of Godhead and distribute the sweet fruits of love of Godhead freely urging everyone to take more and more so that one day we actually will feel actually anxious to taste those fruit continuously. That is your way of paving our path Back to Godhead, distributing the nectar of Krishna’s holy name freely. Thank you so much for those most intense, timeless moments of freedom from the clutches of maya and deep absorption in Krishna’s sweetness.
One should not accept dependents unless one is able to save one’s dependents from the cycle of birth and death. You personify the perfect example of someone who is fully able to save his dependents from that vicious cycle having fully taken shelter of Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet.
Visiting a seminar in Mayapur a couple of years back I heard a wonderful example. No one is actually able to deliver anyone from the clutches of Maya out of his own strength. So what to do about this statement? No one becoming husband, father, king or guru? No! We only need to develop one single qualification and that is grasping hold of the lotus feet of the spiritual master and Srila Prabhupada and not letting go under all circumstances. By being a perfect discipline of Srila Prabupada you become the perfect spiritual master offering shelter under your lotus feet. However I do not have this single qualification and on this most auspicious day of your appearance I want to beg from you to please bless me to understand that there is no other shelter than yours and Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet for me in this world before having taken too much beating from the illusionary energy.
Your aspiring disciple
Kasi Priya das
please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
And all glories to to you Gurumaharaja on this most auspicious day of your appearance in this world.
Struggling to find words of glorification and appreciation to offer to you, your Godbrother Vedavyasapriya Maharaja kindly appeared on the scene here at New Varshana to help to inspire your foolish disciple who is unable to grasp the extent of your mercy.
Maharaja was having an enlightening take on ‘Thanks Giving’. So I thought of what is it you gave me I’m the most grateful for?
Of course there are many things. Starting with you fishing me hopelessly clueless seeker out from the ocean of suffering and struggle in this material world with your transcendental sankirtan net of dedicated disciples reaching out on the streets and then sorting the catch out at the Loft. Not only that but then you allowed me maha-neophyte even to live and serve in the Brahmacari ashrama, which was the only option I would have accepted back then I believe to stay long enough to stick around. And that’s the perfect example how you accepted the fact that you are Krishna’s and Prabhupada’s tool and you are always listening to and allowing yourself to be guided by the directions of Krishna, sitting as the super soul in your heart. How else would you have made this exception? But you put exceptional efforts in to rescue all of us and whoever gets caught in your net. Thanks for your exceptional perseverance in your outreach activities!
Of course there are so many things to be grateful for like your tolerance by tolerating all my short comings and foolish actions. Then there is your care for everyone who wants and even doesn’t want it. Then there is the association of devotees you brought me in even though sometimes it seems hard to tolerate all that good fortune but I think devotees have a hard time with me too. You are also enabling us to see transformations happening in others and turning into devotees and that is very inspiring. There are so many things to be grateful for.
But am I the most grateful for? The answer came in Agnideva Prabhu’s kirtan, when he sang a tune you are singing too. Iron is not fire but iron touched by fire acts like fire. Similarly your pure chanting during kirtan simply electrifies. The Holy Name pouring forth from the mouth of the pure devotee pulls the listener out of this material environment and places him for the time being into the spiritual world. And of all the kirtans it is the kirtans on our yearly festivals you are facilitating, that are the most amazing experience. There at Krishna Kunja, time collapses as soon as you infectiously chant Krishna’s holy names, carrying us all in the Krishna Kunja Vaikuntha airplane out of this material world directly to Goloka Vrindavan in an instant. Arriving there makes me feel as if I never left. With your chanting you allow us to taste the nectar I have to admit I couldn’t really say I am anxious for. Like Lord Caitanya you open the store house of love of Godhead and distribute the sweet fruits of love of Godhead freely urging everyone to take more and more so that one day we actually will feel actually anxious to taste those fruit continuously. That is your way of paving our path Back to Godhead, distributing the nectar of Krishna’s holy name freely. Thank you so much for those most intense, timeless moments of freedom from the clutches of maya and deep absorption in Krishna’s sweetness.
One should not accept dependents unless one is able to save one’s dependents from the cycle of birth and death. You personify the perfect example of someone who is fully able to save his dependents from that vicious cycle having fully taken shelter of Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet.
Visiting a seminar in Mayapur a couple of years back I heard a wonderful example. No one is actually able to deliver anyone from the clutches of Maya out of his own strength. So what to do about this statement? No one becoming husband, father, king or guru? No! We only need to develop one single qualification and that is grasping hold of the lotus feet of the spiritual master and Srila Prabhupada and not letting go under all circumstances. By being a perfect discipline of Srila Prabupada you become the perfect spiritual master offering shelter under your lotus feet. However I do not have this single qualification and on this most auspicious day of your appearance I want to beg from you to please bless me to understand that there is no other shelter than yours and Srila Prabhupada’s lotus feet for me in this world before having taken too much beating from the illusionary energy.
Your aspiring disciple
Kasi Priya das
Kasturika Dasi
Dearest Gurudeva....
Please accept my humble obeisances...
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada...
All Glories to You...
Most awaited day of year is here, celebrating your vyasapuja and blessing us with all auspiciousness. Happy Vyasapuja to you Gurudeva.
As i was reading the meaning of the prayer on ajnana timirandhasya.... I felt awe...what a wonderful doctor you are, that you help me open my eyes which are blinded in ignorance and illusion. Some can restore poor sight or lost vision but a spiritual master can administer the medicine that a disciple can accept and
prepare them to see. Last two years being away from temple, I felt I am on automated aircraft but you carefully manoeurvred through rough roads and making sure I'm always engaged in steady devotional service in kc.Thank you Gurudeva.
Being in Vrndavan, HH Gunagrahi Swami maharaj, is living example as how a devotee is immersed in holyname and can go through such tough time. During one of his Kirtan, my first interaction resonated before me...being a science student and having no understanding of how bhakti yoga works , with all arrogance questioned how is that this bhakti yoga or Hare Krishna chanting be any help to all..but if I invent or discover medicine in cancer, it will save so many of you. But with all patience and kindness, you explained how watering the root of tree nourishes the whole tree, similarly everything will be taken care. Asking me to enter bhakti laboratory to experiment myself ...today even after few years cancer research is still going on but such a medicine has never been out while the process of kc only to way to get out of this cycle of birth and death permanently.... Thank u Gurudeva for this wonderful gift.
In Dec 2016, book marathon in Vrndavan, I was trying give Bhagavad Gita to one new visitor. Along with the book, we were giving out few pictures, I had a picture of Srila Rupa Gosvami samdhi. But back of my mind, I was battling in thoughts what will he understand whose samdhi it is and how will he be impressed to buy a BG when others are offering fancy pictures of Krsna and Radharani with BG. Remembering words of Gopa vrndesh Prabhu class, I was praying to Srila Rupa Gosvami to help him buy....to my surprise he did and he was very happy to receive the picture as well. I was shocked and also rejoiced as you gave a gift where Guru parampara is super active and how would ever I have such glimpse without ur mercy....woh....thank u Gurudeva.
During my yoga training in mysore,part of curriculum is be part of philosophy and meditation ..and they manipulate BG in impersonal ways ...using anologies etc....how important is to study Srila Prabhupada books and how Srila Prabhupada exemplifies to destroy impersonalism but without you, i wouldn't have ever be connected to Srila Prabhupada.Thank you Gurudeva.
Back in Noida, at sector 18 metro station, when trying to distribute books, I had experience of how so many inquisitive people rush to me asking for books or questions while on other hand young girls use to smoke and half naked being arrogant paid no attention, and I could be one of such Indian youth too but you saved me from such clutter. Thank you Gurudeva.
One of your lectures, you mentioned that spiritual master trains disciple by his instructions to identity between pure gold and fake glittering gold. Being with Mother Daivi Sakti is practical experience of what is to be pure and such a foundational lesson in my spiritual life. Thank you Gurudeva.
Reading Hiding in Unnatural Happiness book,took me on a journey of knowing your magnanimity and empathic side as how you were addressing so many practical situations, stepping into everyone's shoes and discussing their view point of agreements and disagreements. Thank you Gurudeva, for making it easy for us to make us think outside this box of material body and mind. Only spiritual master or Acharya know how to mold according to one's needs and situations and present Krishna consciousness. (NOD)Thank you for presenting Bhakti yoga, is and as the perfection of this Information Age.(HIUH)
It wouldn't be possible for me to stay in dham with out your mercy as I lack the depth and understanding the value of Sri Vrndavan Dham. Thank you Gurudeva.
Thank you for being magnanimous by your extensive travels, loft programs, university programs just to distill the thinking process and showing how bhakti yoga is the real cutting edge. Thank you by showing equal vision, nurturing everyone who is coming under your care, and love.
Today I humbly beg for your mercy that I can be engaged in devotional service in association of vaisnavas always. Praying for your strong health.
Aspiring to be servant of servants
Kasturika Dasi.
Please accept my humble obeisances...
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada...
All Glories to You...
Most awaited day of year is here, celebrating your vyasapuja and blessing us with all auspiciousness. Happy Vyasapuja to you Gurudeva.
As i was reading the meaning of the prayer on ajnana timirandhasya.... I felt awe...what a wonderful doctor you are, that you help me open my eyes which are blinded in ignorance and illusion. Some can restore poor sight or lost vision but a spiritual master can administer the medicine that a disciple can accept and
prepare them to see. Last two years being away from temple, I felt I am on automated aircraft but you carefully manoeurvred through rough roads and making sure I'm always engaged in steady devotional service in kc.Thank you Gurudeva.
Being in Vrndavan, HH Gunagrahi Swami maharaj, is living example as how a devotee is immersed in holyname and can go through such tough time. During one of his Kirtan, my first interaction resonated before me...being a science student and having no understanding of how bhakti yoga works , with all arrogance questioned how is that this bhakti yoga or Hare Krishna chanting be any help to all..but if I invent or discover medicine in cancer, it will save so many of you. But with all patience and kindness, you explained how watering the root of tree nourishes the whole tree, similarly everything will be taken care. Asking me to enter bhakti laboratory to experiment myself ...today even after few years cancer research is still going on but such a medicine has never been out while the process of kc only to way to get out of this cycle of birth and death permanently.... Thank u Gurudeva for this wonderful gift.
In Dec 2016, book marathon in Vrndavan, I was trying give Bhagavad Gita to one new visitor. Along with the book, we were giving out few pictures, I had a picture of Srila Rupa Gosvami samdhi. But back of my mind, I was battling in thoughts what will he understand whose samdhi it is and how will he be impressed to buy a BG when others are offering fancy pictures of Krsna and Radharani with BG. Remembering words of Gopa vrndesh Prabhu class, I was praying to Srila Rupa Gosvami to help him buy....to my surprise he did and he was very happy to receive the picture as well. I was shocked and also rejoiced as you gave a gift where Guru parampara is super active and how would ever I have such glimpse without ur mercy....woh....thank u Gurudeva.
During my yoga training in mysore,part of curriculum is be part of philosophy and meditation ..and they manipulate BG in impersonal ways ...using anologies etc....how important is to study Srila Prabhupada books and how Srila Prabhupada exemplifies to destroy impersonalism but without you, i wouldn't have ever be connected to Srila Prabhupada.Thank you Gurudeva.
Back in Noida, at sector 18 metro station, when trying to distribute books, I had experience of how so many inquisitive people rush to me asking for books or questions while on other hand young girls use to smoke and half naked being arrogant paid no attention, and I could be one of such Indian youth too but you saved me from such clutter. Thank you Gurudeva.
One of your lectures, you mentioned that spiritual master trains disciple by his instructions to identity between pure gold and fake glittering gold. Being with Mother Daivi Sakti is practical experience of what is to be pure and such a foundational lesson in my spiritual life. Thank you Gurudeva.
Reading Hiding in Unnatural Happiness book,took me on a journey of knowing your magnanimity and empathic side as how you were addressing so many practical situations, stepping into everyone's shoes and discussing their view point of agreements and disagreements. Thank you Gurudeva, for making it easy for us to make us think outside this box of material body and mind. Only spiritual master or Acharya know how to mold according to one's needs and situations and present Krishna consciousness. (NOD)Thank you for presenting Bhakti yoga, is and as the perfection of this Information Age.(HIUH)
It wouldn't be possible for me to stay in dham with out your mercy as I lack the depth and understanding the value of Sri Vrndavan Dham. Thank you Gurudeva.
Thank you for being magnanimous by your extensive travels, loft programs, university programs just to distill the thinking process and showing how bhakti yoga is the real cutting edge. Thank you by showing equal vision, nurturing everyone who is coming under your care, and love.
Today I humbly beg for your mercy that I can be engaged in devotional service in association of vaisnavas always. Praying for your strong health.
Aspiring to be servant of servants
Kasturika Dasi.
Kathāmṛta Devi Dasi
Hare Krishna dear Gurudeva,
please accept my humble obeisances. All glories unto Srila Prabhupada, and all glories onto you on your Vyasa Puja day.
"You are like a little kitten caught up in yarn; how do you always get yourself so entangled? So caught up?"
(As you untie me with your words, compassionately giving me the higher perspective).
"Are you finished sky-writing?"
And I answer, "Sky-writing, Guru Maharaja?"
"Yes, how the plane flies through the sky, and writes messages and then a few moments later, everything vanishes!"
(All the while, I thought I was doing devotional service... an eternal activity).
"I don't know! Are you here or there? I cannot keep track of you! Stay here for at least a year."
(You are the only person who can schedule an entire year of my life, and destine it to a specific place.)
"Have higher standards."
(You give me medicine in small dosages, because my weak heart cannot handle the full vision of how pathetically easy my attention can be captivated).
And with each blow to my ego, you cut away so many illusions, so much fear and all unnecessary lamentation. I feel so grateful for your truthfulness. I can see there have been times when I come before you and you are portioning a dosage just suitable to where I am, and how much I can handle. I pray that each time I come before you that my willingness to take the medicine increases, that the dosage gets heavier, that you need no longer tempt me by alluring my mind with your sweet candy coating words of encouragement, just so that I remain passive. No, let it be that I come prepared in a straight-jacket, knowing how insane I am, and beg you to just give it to me straight- despite all wiggling and squirming. I long to be cured by you, Gurudeva.
"Get grounded, so that you can rise to your potential."
I am unable to ground myself without your truthfulness, because I am addicted to thinking that I am perfectly healthy. I have trouble facing the reality of my existential predicament because I am afraid that even if I invest myself fully in spiritual life that I still won't be good enough- which is true. Without your mercy, without the mercy of Lord Caitanya, I will always remain an incomplete spark, burnt out, and desperate for connection. I cannot transcend without you.
Thank you for helping me to be discriminating, for instructing me when I am in a useless condition, for being strong for me and caring about me unconditionally, and for thanking me even when I have done nothing to deserve thanks.
When I saw you in June at the mid-year retreat, I wanted to approach you the way that Mother Devahuti approaches Lord Kapiladeva.
devahūtir uvāca
nirviṇṇā nitarāṁ bhūmann
asad-indriya-tarṣaṇāt
yena sambhāvyamānena
prapannāndhaṁ tamaḥ prabho
tasya tvaṁ tamaso ’ndhasya
duṣpārasyādya pāragam
sac-cakṣur janmanām ante
labdhaṁ me tvad-anugrahāt
Devahūti said: I am very sick of the disturbance caused by my material senses, for because of this sense disturbance, my Lord, I have fallen into the abyss of ignorance.
Your Lordship is my only means of getting out of this darkest region of ignorance because You are my transcendental eye, which, by Your mercy only, I have attained after many, many births.
Dear Gurudeva, you are my transcendental eye, and it is surely by your mercy only, and not by any qualification of my own, that I have been able to approach you for shelter. You have reassured me that by being attached to sadhu, that my material attachments will be broken. So I beg for your special mercy, that my attachment to you is always strongest. By this attachment I have faith that I will some day wake up to my real self.
Still thinking I am the shadow, but praying for the full realization that I am your servant,
Kathāmṛta Devi Dasi
please accept my humble obeisances. All glories unto Srila Prabhupada, and all glories onto you on your Vyasa Puja day.
"You are like a little kitten caught up in yarn; how do you always get yourself so entangled? So caught up?"
(As you untie me with your words, compassionately giving me the higher perspective).
"Are you finished sky-writing?"
And I answer, "Sky-writing, Guru Maharaja?"
"Yes, how the plane flies through the sky, and writes messages and then a few moments later, everything vanishes!"
(All the while, I thought I was doing devotional service... an eternal activity).
"I don't know! Are you here or there? I cannot keep track of you! Stay here for at least a year."
(You are the only person who can schedule an entire year of my life, and destine it to a specific place.)
"Have higher standards."
(You give me medicine in small dosages, because my weak heart cannot handle the full vision of how pathetically easy my attention can be captivated).
And with each blow to my ego, you cut away so many illusions, so much fear and all unnecessary lamentation. I feel so grateful for your truthfulness. I can see there have been times when I come before you and you are portioning a dosage just suitable to where I am, and how much I can handle. I pray that each time I come before you that my willingness to take the medicine increases, that the dosage gets heavier, that you need no longer tempt me by alluring my mind with your sweet candy coating words of encouragement, just so that I remain passive. No, let it be that I come prepared in a straight-jacket, knowing how insane I am, and beg you to just give it to me straight- despite all wiggling and squirming. I long to be cured by you, Gurudeva.
"Get grounded, so that you can rise to your potential."
I am unable to ground myself without your truthfulness, because I am addicted to thinking that I am perfectly healthy. I have trouble facing the reality of my existential predicament because I am afraid that even if I invest myself fully in spiritual life that I still won't be good enough- which is true. Without your mercy, without the mercy of Lord Caitanya, I will always remain an incomplete spark, burnt out, and desperate for connection. I cannot transcend without you.
Thank you for helping me to be discriminating, for instructing me when I am in a useless condition, for being strong for me and caring about me unconditionally, and for thanking me even when I have done nothing to deserve thanks.
When I saw you in June at the mid-year retreat, I wanted to approach you the way that Mother Devahuti approaches Lord Kapiladeva.
devahūtir uvāca
nirviṇṇā nitarāṁ bhūmann
asad-indriya-tarṣaṇāt
yena sambhāvyamānena
prapannāndhaṁ tamaḥ prabho
tasya tvaṁ tamaso ’ndhasya
duṣpārasyādya pāragam
sac-cakṣur janmanām ante
labdhaṁ me tvad-anugrahāt
Devahūti said: I am very sick of the disturbance caused by my material senses, for because of this sense disturbance, my Lord, I have fallen into the abyss of ignorance.
Your Lordship is my only means of getting out of this darkest region of ignorance because You are my transcendental eye, which, by Your mercy only, I have attained after many, many births.
Dear Gurudeva, you are my transcendental eye, and it is surely by your mercy only, and not by any qualification of my own, that I have been able to approach you for shelter. You have reassured me that by being attached to sadhu, that my material attachments will be broken. So I beg for your special mercy, that my attachment to you is always strongest. By this attachment I have faith that I will some day wake up to my real self.
Still thinking I am the shadow, but praying for the full realization that I am your servant,
Kathāmṛta Devi Dasi
Kesi-mardana dasa
Dearest Gurudeva,
Hare Krishna! Please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to your divine spiritual master Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you, his surrendered and dearmost servant.
As I attempt to write this offering to you Gurudeva, words of expression escape me. Meditating on our short relationship in this lifetime, I can only be astonished and grateful for where you have guided me thus far. I remember my utter frustration, struggling to achieve in the material world whilst trying to maintain the highest standards of sensual pleasure possible - always seeking to escalate my absorption in activities which were to my own detriment. For what purpose was all of this groping in the dark? Simply to try to become happy? To be free from misery? And the most ignorant motivation of them all - to feel like an intelligent, spiritual person, someone that others must want to admire and follow!
Somehow by Lord Krishna’s causeless, inconceivable mercy, His devotees, your disciples, plucked me out of this mess like a worm from the mud. In my most desperate moment of life, all of my attempts and theories frustrated, you appeared. And now you still remain, ever present with me as you are with all of your disciples.
Is there a way for someone to properly express gratitude for receiving life-saving medical treatment? If a child dodging traffic is saved from a bus by a caring bystander are there any words that exist to appreciate such compassion? Maybe there are, but lacking any eloquence or grammatical dexterity I am unable to find them. Therefore on this day of your Vyasa Puja I am begging you to please accept my feeble attempt of gratitude out of your own kindness and mercy.
Gurudeva, you are a perfect example of a pure devotee. You embody the transcendental qualities of a bona fide spiritual master and you also show us how to become a proper disciple. When I am fortunate enough to observe you in person I am repeatedly amazed at how diligent, determined, focused, and patient you are in performing your various responsible services. In perfect consciousness you have internalized the teaching of Canakya Pandit that not with mountains of gold can a single moment of wasted time be bought back. Always aware of the necessity of pushing on your spiritual master’s mission, you urge your assistants and insignificant servants like myself to engineer our lifestyle’s for the maximum level of spiritual absorption.
Though I have personally heard your instructions and encouragement, still I remain hopelessly attached to the prospect of enjoying my senses due to my mind being overwhelmed with the impressions of my sinful past. Truthfully I am drowning in the ocean of lust, envy, and pride - constantly tossed by the waves of my own sinful desires, void of any real devotion. Therefore Gurudeva, I must beg you repeatedly, please give me your shelter. Other than under the shelter of your lotus feet, which traverse the globe as you rescue countless souls, there is no safe place for me. I have no intelligence on which to depend, I have no abilities, no penance or austerity, no sastric wisdom, not a single good quality lies anywhere within my being. I am simply your helpless dependent Gurudeva, please accept me and please I beg you to give me your protection.
The illusory energy has a death grip on my heart Gurudeva and only by the strength of your guidance and love can it be loosened. Please aid me in the process of liberation from the pits of filth within my consciousness Gurudeva and let what remains simply be the strong desire to serve Krishna in the most pleasing way for Him.
Gurudeva, once in a gathering one of your disciples mentioned that you “keep me company” - meaning that this disciple feels you are with them always. In response you said, “to the extent you follow my instructions, yes I am with you.” This reply has been etched into my memory and I hope that Krishna will allow me to always remember it. On your appearance day, most importantly I am begging you to please instruct me, tell me what I need to do, please illuminate my consciousness and direct me in what will be best for Krishna’s service. This is actually what gives my life meaning, without your instructions I will be bereft of your association and my life will no longer maintain its value. I will simply return to my position as a plaything of the material energy. But if my consciousness is cleansed by your pure instructions and my life is motivated by following them, then I am assured of all deliverance and protection.
Your expert guidance is the vitality of my life without which I will simply wither away - therefore I beg you Gurudeva, no matter the countless offenses I commit, please always consider me your helpless, insignificant disciple, completely dependent on you for sustenance.
Forever seeking your grace,
Your indebted servant,
Kesi-mardana dasa
Hare Krishna! Please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to your divine spiritual master Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you, his surrendered and dearmost servant.
As I attempt to write this offering to you Gurudeva, words of expression escape me. Meditating on our short relationship in this lifetime, I can only be astonished and grateful for where you have guided me thus far. I remember my utter frustration, struggling to achieve in the material world whilst trying to maintain the highest standards of sensual pleasure possible - always seeking to escalate my absorption in activities which were to my own detriment. For what purpose was all of this groping in the dark? Simply to try to become happy? To be free from misery? And the most ignorant motivation of them all - to feel like an intelligent, spiritual person, someone that others must want to admire and follow!
Somehow by Lord Krishna’s causeless, inconceivable mercy, His devotees, your disciples, plucked me out of this mess like a worm from the mud. In my most desperate moment of life, all of my attempts and theories frustrated, you appeared. And now you still remain, ever present with me as you are with all of your disciples.
Is there a way for someone to properly express gratitude for receiving life-saving medical treatment? If a child dodging traffic is saved from a bus by a caring bystander are there any words that exist to appreciate such compassion? Maybe there are, but lacking any eloquence or grammatical dexterity I am unable to find them. Therefore on this day of your Vyasa Puja I am begging you to please accept my feeble attempt of gratitude out of your own kindness and mercy.
Gurudeva, you are a perfect example of a pure devotee. You embody the transcendental qualities of a bona fide spiritual master and you also show us how to become a proper disciple. When I am fortunate enough to observe you in person I am repeatedly amazed at how diligent, determined, focused, and patient you are in performing your various responsible services. In perfect consciousness you have internalized the teaching of Canakya Pandit that not with mountains of gold can a single moment of wasted time be bought back. Always aware of the necessity of pushing on your spiritual master’s mission, you urge your assistants and insignificant servants like myself to engineer our lifestyle’s for the maximum level of spiritual absorption.
Though I have personally heard your instructions and encouragement, still I remain hopelessly attached to the prospect of enjoying my senses due to my mind being overwhelmed with the impressions of my sinful past. Truthfully I am drowning in the ocean of lust, envy, and pride - constantly tossed by the waves of my own sinful desires, void of any real devotion. Therefore Gurudeva, I must beg you repeatedly, please give me your shelter. Other than under the shelter of your lotus feet, which traverse the globe as you rescue countless souls, there is no safe place for me. I have no intelligence on which to depend, I have no abilities, no penance or austerity, no sastric wisdom, not a single good quality lies anywhere within my being. I am simply your helpless dependent Gurudeva, please accept me and please I beg you to give me your protection.
The illusory energy has a death grip on my heart Gurudeva and only by the strength of your guidance and love can it be loosened. Please aid me in the process of liberation from the pits of filth within my consciousness Gurudeva and let what remains simply be the strong desire to serve Krishna in the most pleasing way for Him.
Gurudeva, once in a gathering one of your disciples mentioned that you “keep me company” - meaning that this disciple feels you are with them always. In response you said, “to the extent you follow my instructions, yes I am with you.” This reply has been etched into my memory and I hope that Krishna will allow me to always remember it. On your appearance day, most importantly I am begging you to please instruct me, tell me what I need to do, please illuminate my consciousness and direct me in what will be best for Krishna’s service. This is actually what gives my life meaning, without your instructions I will be bereft of your association and my life will no longer maintain its value. I will simply return to my position as a plaything of the material energy. But if my consciousness is cleansed by your pure instructions and my life is motivated by following them, then I am assured of all deliverance and protection.
Your expert guidance is the vitality of my life without which I will simply wither away - therefore I beg you Gurudeva, no matter the countless offenses I commit, please always consider me your helpless, insignificant disciple, completely dependent on you for sustenance.
Forever seeking your grace,
Your indebted servant,
Kesi-mardana dasa
Khadiravan devi dasi
Dear Gurudev,
please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to your dazzling service to Srila Prabhupada.
Gurudev, you are an ocean of Mercy, as Narottama das Thakur describes in Sri Guru vandana, “Sri guru karuna sindhu”.
Your deeply compassionate heart appears to my limited eye to drive your every move:
counselling and guiding devotees, caring for their needs
protecting and solacing leaders when those they try to serve sometimes bite the hand that feeds
exemplifying empathy with the plight of the other person “try to see things from their angle”
saying simple communication is key - “talk to each other”, are things really so difficult to untangle?
rousing Bhagavatam classes to keep the devotees stimulated and progressive
thrilling wake up talks to new guests and exclusive one-on-one coaching in their brand new bhakti perspective
bringing the devotees together with ecstatic festivals to build momentum as we traverse from darkness to light
sharing your lucid realisations and insights into our bewildered situation to strengthen us in the fight
with your brilliant transcendental humour, uncommon personalism and perfectly vaisnava dealings
giving us the pure love that nourishes us to persist on the path of bhakti, with feeling
reminding that Prabhupada’s books always must be distributed, and of course, read by the devotees
imploring that a selfish life is a miserable life, though it may seem like it will be full of ease
encouraging prasadam with a capital P to catch the tongues and minds of the world
showing that kirtan is not a sunday ritualistic hymn but a life changing expression of connection with Krishna, unfurled
doing as Krishna needs and the time demands, switching hats and ISKCON societal roles
flying from continent to continent, long, arduous, cramped hours, to share Krishna with more souls
investing unlimited energy into our bhakti potential
even though for myself, I lack any credential
If that’s not compassion, I don’t know what is
That’s causelessly merciful, like the gift Lord Caitanya gives
begging to one day be able to assist, and attempt to reciprocate with, your merciful activities
whole-heartedly,
with full focus and absorption and
with maximum use of intelligence,
aspring to be your servant and spiritual daughter,
Khadiravan devi dasi
please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to your dazzling service to Srila Prabhupada.
Gurudev, you are an ocean of Mercy, as Narottama das Thakur describes in Sri Guru vandana, “Sri guru karuna sindhu”.
Your deeply compassionate heart appears to my limited eye to drive your every move:
counselling and guiding devotees, caring for their needs
protecting and solacing leaders when those they try to serve sometimes bite the hand that feeds
exemplifying empathy with the plight of the other person “try to see things from their angle”
saying simple communication is key - “talk to each other”, are things really so difficult to untangle?
rousing Bhagavatam classes to keep the devotees stimulated and progressive
thrilling wake up talks to new guests and exclusive one-on-one coaching in their brand new bhakti perspective
bringing the devotees together with ecstatic festivals to build momentum as we traverse from darkness to light
sharing your lucid realisations and insights into our bewildered situation to strengthen us in the fight
with your brilliant transcendental humour, uncommon personalism and perfectly vaisnava dealings
giving us the pure love that nourishes us to persist on the path of bhakti, with feeling
reminding that Prabhupada’s books always must be distributed, and of course, read by the devotees
imploring that a selfish life is a miserable life, though it may seem like it will be full of ease
encouraging prasadam with a capital P to catch the tongues and minds of the world
showing that kirtan is not a sunday ritualistic hymn but a life changing expression of connection with Krishna, unfurled
doing as Krishna needs and the time demands, switching hats and ISKCON societal roles
flying from continent to continent, long, arduous, cramped hours, to share Krishna with more souls
investing unlimited energy into our bhakti potential
even though for myself, I lack any credential
If that’s not compassion, I don’t know what is
That’s causelessly merciful, like the gift Lord Caitanya gives
begging to one day be able to assist, and attempt to reciprocate with, your merciful activities
whole-heartedly,
with full focus and absorption and
with maximum use of intelligence,
aspring to be your servant and spiritual daughter,
Khadiravan devi dasi
Khela Tirtha das
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances
On this most auspicious day of your appearance
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Your tireless ,selfless dedication to spread Krsna consciousness ,in a practical,tactical,sensible way
continues to craze,amaze and daze me
You're encouraging,preaching and teaching your followers,disciples,aspirants and well wishers to reform,conform and transform side by side with the ultimate contribution of distribution of Krsna's mercy
Thereby speeding up the process of purification.
To quote Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur
"Such pure devotees are not selfishly motivated. Rather, their main purpose is to make the insignificant great, to make the godless inclined toward the Lord, and to make each person a devotee of Kṛṣṇa. "
You're moulding , from your qualities,loyal,dedicated ,
focused,sober,
inspired,competent disciples who become working,trustworthy limbs for your service to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya
I pray to one day be a worthy disciple as above mentioned
Timeless wisdom from
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur in his Amrita Vani
explains the Guru /disciple relationship and answers the questions any serious,spiritual aspirant may entertain.
For your pleasure,Gurudev,
please find below excerpts from Sarasvati Thakur's prophetic words along with
a story about your spiritual master, our founder Acarya ,His divine grace A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada ,illustrating a point spoken of by the Thakur,inserted towards the end
'Amrita Vani'
Instructions on immortality
Chapter 2
3-6
""Where can we find a spiritual master? "
Only the person Lord Kṛṣṇa sends us as spiritual master will manifest before us as our guru. By the Lord’s mercy we attain a spiritual master, and by the spiritual master’s mercy we attain Kṛṣṇa.
We are given a spiritual master according to our fortune.
Different people have different mentalities, and the omniscient Lord sends each an appropriate spiritual master.
There are those who desire the Lord’s nonduplicitous mercy and who completely depend on Him for their success.
These souls please the Lord with their simple sincerity.
To bestow His mercy upon them, He appears before them personally.
To those who want something else from the Lord, who are not actually aspiring for His complete mercy, the Lord sends through His illusory energy a spiritual master appropriate to their mentality. A sincere person never faces difficulty but quickly finds a bona fide guru.
"Should we make disciples? "
Unless we are pure devotees or liberated souls, we should not make disciples.
Instead, we should first become disciples ourselves by taking shelter of a bona fide spiritual master. We should then hear hari-kathā from such a guru’s mouth and follow his instructions in practice and humility.
While glorifying those instructions, we should then become gurus.
Trying to remain forever insignificant on some pretext amounts to self-deceit.
To become guru means to become a devotee of Kṛṣṇa and to remain constantly engaged in the Lord’s service with all our senses.
There are no hard and fast rules that tell us
we must make disciples, but if the Lord desires it, then a pure devotee will give instructions for others’ benefit.
Such pure devotees are not selfishly motivated. Rather, their main purpose is to make the insignificant great, to make the godless inclined toward the Lord, and to make each person a devotee of Kṛṣṇa.
"Is the spiritual master enriched by Kṛṣṇa’s wealth? "
The spiritual Master is the proprietor of the Supreme Lord. Śrī Kṛṣṇa is the spiritual master’s property or wealth. That is why only the spiritual master is able to give Kṛṣṇa. Simply by the spiritual master’s mercy we can attain the mercy and darśana of Kṛṣṇa.
"Who is eligible for deliverance? "
As soon as we forget the Lord, various mundane thoughts and sense desires swallow us.
The most merciful Śrī Kṛṣṇa is always ready to protect us from such danger provided we depend on Him completely. Lord Kṛṣṇa saves the living entities in the form of the spiritual master. The spiritual master is the personification of Kṛṣṇa’s mercy. The spiritual master, Kṛṣṇa’s representative, appears in this world to deliver the living entities from material existence and bring them back to Godhead.
A beautiful example of this descending mercy from Krsna through the pure devotee ,put in practical terms by Srila Prabhupada,is as follows-
-One morning Prabhupada arrived in the park, stepped out of his car, and waited for the devotees who had come in another car to join him.
Lilavati had difficulty getting out of the car because she had her baby, Subhadra, in a carrier on her back.
When she finally did get out of the car, Prabhupada turned and laughed at her, saying, "Ah, burden of affection." "Yes, Swamiji," Lilavati replied.
They all began to walk together along the path.
"So there are two ways to carry a baby," Prabhupada said, tapping his cane on the ground in time with his regular stride. "There is the monkey way and the cat way. Do you know this?"
"No, Swamiji," said Lilavati.
"Well, which way do you think is better?" Prabhupada asked her. "The monkey way or the cat way?"
She couldn't understand or imagine what he meant.
Prabhupada continued, "The monkey baby climbs on the back of the mother and holds on, and this is the way he travels.
And the kitten is carried in the teeth of the mother. So which is better?"
Lilavati could still not understand which way could be better; they both sounded very difficult to her.
"Well," Prabhupada said, "the monkey baby is very small and very weak, and he is holding on to the mother by his own strength. But the kitten is being supported by the strength of the mother
. So which way do you think is better?"
And then she understood. "The cat way is better."
"Yes," Prabhupada said, "that is the difference between the yogi and the devotee.
The yogi is trying to climb on the back of the Absolute Truth by his own strength, but he is very weak, so he will fall.
But a devotee, he cries out for Krsna"-
and as he spoke the word Krsna, Prabhupada held his arms up high and looked up at the clear morning sky-"
"A devotee cries out for Krsna, and Krsna picks him up."
Only those fortunate souls who eagerly accept the mercy of such a spiritual master become liberated and go back to the eternal abode of peace. ""
***
On this auspicious day of your appearance,Gurudev,I beg for forgiveness for all my shortcomings and mistakes.
I am eternally indebted to you and continue,with straw between my teeth,to accept the burden of being a laughing stock due to attempting to repay an un repayable debt
Your aspiring servant or your servants
Khela tirtha dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances
On this most auspicious day of your appearance
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Your tireless ,selfless dedication to spread Krsna consciousness ,in a practical,tactical,sensible way
continues to craze,amaze and daze me
You're encouraging,preaching and teaching your followers,disciples,aspirants and well wishers to reform,conform and transform side by side with the ultimate contribution of distribution of Krsna's mercy
Thereby speeding up the process of purification.
To quote Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur
"Such pure devotees are not selfishly motivated. Rather, their main purpose is to make the insignificant great, to make the godless inclined toward the Lord, and to make each person a devotee of Kṛṣṇa. "
You're moulding , from your qualities,loyal,dedicated ,
focused,sober,
inspired,competent disciples who become working,trustworthy limbs for your service to Srila Prabhupada and Lord Caitanya
I pray to one day be a worthy disciple as above mentioned
Timeless wisdom from
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakur in his Amrita Vani
explains the Guru /disciple relationship and answers the questions any serious,spiritual aspirant may entertain.
For your pleasure,Gurudev,
please find below excerpts from Sarasvati Thakur's prophetic words along with
a story about your spiritual master, our founder Acarya ,His divine grace A C Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada ,illustrating a point spoken of by the Thakur,inserted towards the end
'Amrita Vani'
Instructions on immortality
Chapter 2
3-6
""Where can we find a spiritual master? "
Only the person Lord Kṛṣṇa sends us as spiritual master will manifest before us as our guru. By the Lord’s mercy we attain a spiritual master, and by the spiritual master’s mercy we attain Kṛṣṇa.
We are given a spiritual master according to our fortune.
Different people have different mentalities, and the omniscient Lord sends each an appropriate spiritual master.
There are those who desire the Lord’s nonduplicitous mercy and who completely depend on Him for their success.
These souls please the Lord with their simple sincerity.
To bestow His mercy upon them, He appears before them personally.
To those who want something else from the Lord, who are not actually aspiring for His complete mercy, the Lord sends through His illusory energy a spiritual master appropriate to their mentality. A sincere person never faces difficulty but quickly finds a bona fide guru.
"Should we make disciples? "
Unless we are pure devotees or liberated souls, we should not make disciples.
Instead, we should first become disciples ourselves by taking shelter of a bona fide spiritual master. We should then hear hari-kathā from such a guru’s mouth and follow his instructions in practice and humility.
While glorifying those instructions, we should then become gurus.
Trying to remain forever insignificant on some pretext amounts to self-deceit.
To become guru means to become a devotee of Kṛṣṇa and to remain constantly engaged in the Lord’s service with all our senses.
There are no hard and fast rules that tell us
we must make disciples, but if the Lord desires it, then a pure devotee will give instructions for others’ benefit.
Such pure devotees are not selfishly motivated. Rather, their main purpose is to make the insignificant great, to make the godless inclined toward the Lord, and to make each person a devotee of Kṛṣṇa.
"Is the spiritual master enriched by Kṛṣṇa’s wealth? "
The spiritual Master is the proprietor of the Supreme Lord. Śrī Kṛṣṇa is the spiritual master’s property or wealth. That is why only the spiritual master is able to give Kṛṣṇa. Simply by the spiritual master’s mercy we can attain the mercy and darśana of Kṛṣṇa.
"Who is eligible for deliverance? "
As soon as we forget the Lord, various mundane thoughts and sense desires swallow us.
The most merciful Śrī Kṛṣṇa is always ready to protect us from such danger provided we depend on Him completely. Lord Kṛṣṇa saves the living entities in the form of the spiritual master. The spiritual master is the personification of Kṛṣṇa’s mercy. The spiritual master, Kṛṣṇa’s representative, appears in this world to deliver the living entities from material existence and bring them back to Godhead.
A beautiful example of this descending mercy from Krsna through the pure devotee ,put in practical terms by Srila Prabhupada,is as follows-
-One morning Prabhupada arrived in the park, stepped out of his car, and waited for the devotees who had come in another car to join him.
Lilavati had difficulty getting out of the car because she had her baby, Subhadra, in a carrier on her back.
When she finally did get out of the car, Prabhupada turned and laughed at her, saying, "Ah, burden of affection." "Yes, Swamiji," Lilavati replied.
They all began to walk together along the path.
"So there are two ways to carry a baby," Prabhupada said, tapping his cane on the ground in time with his regular stride. "There is the monkey way and the cat way. Do you know this?"
"No, Swamiji," said Lilavati.
"Well, which way do you think is better?" Prabhupada asked her. "The monkey way or the cat way?"
She couldn't understand or imagine what he meant.
Prabhupada continued, "The monkey baby climbs on the back of the mother and holds on, and this is the way he travels.
And the kitten is carried in the teeth of the mother. So which is better?"
Lilavati could still not understand which way could be better; they both sounded very difficult to her.
"Well," Prabhupada said, "the monkey baby is very small and very weak, and he is holding on to the mother by his own strength. But the kitten is being supported by the strength of the mother
. So which way do you think is better?"
And then she understood. "The cat way is better."
"Yes," Prabhupada said, "that is the difference between the yogi and the devotee.
The yogi is trying to climb on the back of the Absolute Truth by his own strength, but he is very weak, so he will fall.
But a devotee, he cries out for Krsna"-
and as he spoke the word Krsna, Prabhupada held his arms up high and looked up at the clear morning sky-"
"A devotee cries out for Krsna, and Krsna picks him up."
Only those fortunate souls who eagerly accept the mercy of such a spiritual master become liberated and go back to the eternal abode of peace. ""
***
On this auspicious day of your appearance,Gurudev,I beg for forgiveness for all my shortcomings and mistakes.
I am eternally indebted to you and continue,with straw between my teeth,to accept the burden of being a laughing stock due to attempting to repay an un repayable debt
Your aspiring servant or your servants
Khela tirtha dasa
Kirtiman Krsna Dasa
nama om vishnu padaya krishna presthaya bhutale
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudev
I humbly offer my obeisances to you on the auspicious occasion of your Vyasapuja.
As a disciple, Vyasapuja day is a wonderful opportunity to meditate on your amazing qualities and to relish the appreciation that a lot of other devotees around the world have for you. Personally for me, it is also the time to reflect on my spiritual journey - the great fortune of having met you, the interactions I’ve had with you in various circumstances, and the causeless mercy you've bestowed upon me where I could be of some service to you.
Every now and then, when our body feels sick we consult a doctor. The role of a doctor and the reason why we go there is quite well defined and understood. But when it comes to the role of a Spiritual doctor or Guru, the definition of the role becomes a bit vague. We come running towards you for a whole range of problems- education, career, relationship, visa, health, finances and what not. Theoretically I understand the role of Guru is to guide me on my spiritual path, but when I come across hurdles in life - when my mind is clouded with thoughts of insecurity, when my heart is filled with anxiety, I turn to you for answers. In the position as a Guru, you always give us enough guidance to resolve the immediate issues at hand and ensure that we get back on track where our spiritual practice is a priority. It also surprises me often when I hear from devotees about your ability to see the potential in everyone and empower them to do things much beyond what they themselves could imagine doing.
Reiterating the words of Srila BhaktiVinoda Thakur from the song ‘Gurudev’,
<i>kṛpā-bindu diyā, koro' ei dāse,
tṛṇāpekhā ati hīna
sakala sahane, bala diyā koro',
nija-māne spṛhā-hīna
“Gurudeva! Give to this servant just one drop of mercy. I am lower than a blade of grass. Give me all help. Give me strength. Let me be as you are, without desires or aspirations.”</i>
This truly reflects the real position of any disciple. Gurudev, I sincerely believe your mercy during critical circumstances in my life is the reason why I’m still here in Melbourne and able to practice Krsna Consciousness. I pray for your continued help and guidance all through my life.
During the retreat this weekend you were mentioning about the metaphors we use in our life, and suggested we use the metaphor of a tree to compare to our life. The tree exists to benefit others with everything it's got - branches, fruits, bark, etc. I was thinking when you said that, every aspect of your life is dedicated to preaching for the pleasure of Srila Prabhupada. Similar to the inconveniences the tree undergoes to provide for others, you constantly undergo all kinds of difficulties to provide for those who seek your shelter. Such supreme sacrifice for over four decades is practically incomparable to any achievement that is commonly glorified in the outside world.
Gurudev, I desire to one day become a worthy disciple at your lotus feet and render some service that is pleasing to you. Please forgive the offences I may have committed while trying to serve you.
Your aspiring servants,
KirtimanKrsna Das & PriyamvadaMadhavi Devi Dasi
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudev
I humbly offer my obeisances to you on the auspicious occasion of your Vyasapuja.
As a disciple, Vyasapuja day is a wonderful opportunity to meditate on your amazing qualities and to relish the appreciation that a lot of other devotees around the world have for you. Personally for me, it is also the time to reflect on my spiritual journey - the great fortune of having met you, the interactions I’ve had with you in various circumstances, and the causeless mercy you've bestowed upon me where I could be of some service to you.
Every now and then, when our body feels sick we consult a doctor. The role of a doctor and the reason why we go there is quite well defined and understood. But when it comes to the role of a Spiritual doctor or Guru, the definition of the role becomes a bit vague. We come running towards you for a whole range of problems- education, career, relationship, visa, health, finances and what not. Theoretically I understand the role of Guru is to guide me on my spiritual path, but when I come across hurdles in life - when my mind is clouded with thoughts of insecurity, when my heart is filled with anxiety, I turn to you for answers. In the position as a Guru, you always give us enough guidance to resolve the immediate issues at hand and ensure that we get back on track where our spiritual practice is a priority. It also surprises me often when I hear from devotees about your ability to see the potential in everyone and empower them to do things much beyond what they themselves could imagine doing.
Reiterating the words of Srila BhaktiVinoda Thakur from the song ‘Gurudev’,
<i>kṛpā-bindu diyā, koro' ei dāse,
tṛṇāpekhā ati hīna
sakala sahane, bala diyā koro',
nija-māne spṛhā-hīna
“Gurudeva! Give to this servant just one drop of mercy. I am lower than a blade of grass. Give me all help. Give me strength. Let me be as you are, without desires or aspirations.”</i>
This truly reflects the real position of any disciple. Gurudev, I sincerely believe your mercy during critical circumstances in my life is the reason why I’m still here in Melbourne and able to practice Krsna Consciousness. I pray for your continued help and guidance all through my life.
During the retreat this weekend you were mentioning about the metaphors we use in our life, and suggested we use the metaphor of a tree to compare to our life. The tree exists to benefit others with everything it's got - branches, fruits, bark, etc. I was thinking when you said that, every aspect of your life is dedicated to preaching for the pleasure of Srila Prabhupada. Similar to the inconveniences the tree undergoes to provide for others, you constantly undergo all kinds of difficulties to provide for those who seek your shelter. Such supreme sacrifice for over four decades is practically incomparable to any achievement that is commonly glorified in the outside world.
Gurudev, I desire to one day become a worthy disciple at your lotus feet and render some service that is pleasing to you. Please forgive the offences I may have committed while trying to serve you.
Your aspiring servants,
KirtimanKrsna Das & PriyamvadaMadhavi Devi Dasi
Krishna rupa dd
Hare Krishna dear Guru Maharaj! Please accept my obeisances in the dust of Your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! Please allow me to congratulate You on Your appearance day and wish You health and long life! This is so important for us, Your disciples. I am very beginning devotee and Your physical presence, Your VAPU is so important for me. Naturally Your vani, Your instructions are of big importance for me too and I ask Krishna to give me strength in order to follow them. Your instructions are like elixir of immortality, they only bring benefit to one who follows them. Although sometimes they may not be liked by my lazy mind and taste bitter.
You perform this priceless service to Krishna, bringing Him great pleasure, connecting us, lost souls in material world with original source of happiness! The only source of true happiness. You have demonstrated it on the story of Ukrainian soldier who ran away in Afganistan and lived there with his family for 14 years. What kind of happiness the souls experience after long separation. But I think that I know better where to find happiness and do not loose hope to try to find it elsewhere. My attempts are like trying to catch smoke, get nothing, just spent precious time. This kind of happiness though can even take me away from true happiness, happiness of returning back to Krishna.
I pray to Krishna to give me strength to always chant His Holy Name and read Srila Prabhupada’s books. Everywhere, always, under any circumstances, whatever happens in my life. Now Krishna has sent me husband and family happiness, of which I dreamed of and waited long 13 years. Right now Your blessings are especially important for me in order not to forget Krishna and always remain in the association of devotees. Because family life brings difficulty if misused. I pray to Krishna to realize this ashram and without foreign desires to focus on serving Him, without any distractions walk as one team to spiritual world, helping each other on this path. Long time this desire perturbed my mind and distracted me from spiritual practice. I always desired to have husband as Krishna’s devotee. And now Krishna has mercifully fulfilled this desire, when I almost lost hope. I am completely in hands of Krishna and He is giving that, which is necessary and I accept it with gratitude.
Dear Guru Maharaj, please, gift me ANURAGA, attachment to Holy Name, bless me to chant attentively the Holy Name.
Your servant Krishna rupa devi dasi
You perform this priceless service to Krishna, bringing Him great pleasure, connecting us, lost souls in material world with original source of happiness! The only source of true happiness. You have demonstrated it on the story of Ukrainian soldier who ran away in Afganistan and lived there with his family for 14 years. What kind of happiness the souls experience after long separation. But I think that I know better where to find happiness and do not loose hope to try to find it elsewhere. My attempts are like trying to catch smoke, get nothing, just spent precious time. This kind of happiness though can even take me away from true happiness, happiness of returning back to Krishna.
I pray to Krishna to give me strength to always chant His Holy Name and read Srila Prabhupada’s books. Everywhere, always, under any circumstances, whatever happens in my life. Now Krishna has sent me husband and family happiness, of which I dreamed of and waited long 13 years. Right now Your blessings are especially important for me in order not to forget Krishna and always remain in the association of devotees. Because family life brings difficulty if misused. I pray to Krishna to realize this ashram and without foreign desires to focus on serving Him, without any distractions walk as one team to spiritual world, helping each other on this path. Long time this desire perturbed my mind and distracted me from spiritual practice. I always desired to have husband as Krishna’s devotee. And now Krishna has mercifully fulfilled this desire, when I almost lost hope. I am completely in hands of Krishna and He is giving that, which is necessary and I accept it with gratitude.
Dear Guru Maharaj, please, gift me ANURAGA, attachment to Holy Name, bless me to chant attentively the Holy Name.
Your servant Krishna rupa devi dasi
Krishna's Antara
Hare Krishna!
With the bliss of the Goddess of fortune, I got to meet, one of the truest disciple of Devamrita Swami Maharaj, Sukhanthi Radha Dasi ji, who opened the window of royalty for me by providing me with a chance to visit the blissful feet of Devamrita Swami ji. It was inexplicably divine how the nectal of his divine glimpse felt, the transcendentally blissful vibe coming from him calmed down my restless soul at once, the most touchy string of divine words of eternity flowing from his blissful mouth set me to follow the illuminated path of light that ultimately leads one to the core of existence and the frees into the essence of the lotus feet of Krishna. With an overwhelmed heart when I had been trying my hardest to express my gratitude to him and still failing , as words are never enough , his divine presence made it easy for me by asking me to chant the name of Krishna instead.
Hare Krishna!!!
With the bliss of the Goddess of fortune, I got to meet, one of the truest disciple of Devamrita Swami Maharaj, Sukhanthi Radha Dasi ji, who opened the window of royalty for me by providing me with a chance to visit the blissful feet of Devamrita Swami ji. It was inexplicably divine how the nectal of his divine glimpse felt, the transcendentally blissful vibe coming from him calmed down my restless soul at once, the most touchy string of divine words of eternity flowing from his blissful mouth set me to follow the illuminated path of light that ultimately leads one to the core of existence and the frees into the essence of the lotus feet of Krishna. With an overwhelmed heart when I had been trying my hardest to express my gratitude to him and still failing , as words are never enough , his divine presence made it easy for me by asking me to chant the name of Krishna instead.
Hare Krishna!!!
Krsna Prasada das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In an attempt to write some words of appreciation and gratitude, Im thinking why is this such a struggle every year? It shouldn't be, there are so many things I could say to glorify you. I then meditated on the struggles that Srila Prabhupada went through, to deliver Krsna Consciousness to the world and the struggles you encountered to serve Srila Prabhupada in his mission. Initially not having a desire to distribute his books but having a determined desire to love it. Smuggling books behind the iron curtain and narrowly avoiding situations with the KGB, just to name a few.
Now you are willingly struggling to try and help as many of us as possible to become Krsna Conscious.
Humanities problems are undoubtedly stemming from within each and every individual. Previously most peoples problems were more on an external level. What to speak of this day and age with Mental illnesses, Depression etc. Most people are suffering internally. All because they don't understand who they are. As a so-called practicing devotee, I too struggle with this one simple point, not knowing who I truly am. If only I understood, my days would be constructed so much more efficiently. If only I could see how quickly this lifetime is disappearing before my eyes. This is the evidence I have not understood this simple fact.
As I have recently read in the 3rd Canto of Srimad Bhagavatam.
‘Time can control only those who are body conscious.’
Time is getting the better of me because of this very point.
External time continues, but it has no ability to control Krsna because he is the controller of time. In the Spiritual World there is time, but it has no control over activities. Time is unlimited, and the Spiritual World is also unlimited. You are such an example of someone not controlled by time. It doesn't matter where you are or where you go, you seem to transcend time through your unflinching Bhakti, whether this life or the next, it is all absolute.
You are like the caterpillar that has struggled in its cocoon and has now matured into a beautiful butterfly. We can see, without the struggles we would not be able to mature in Bhakti, just as the caterpillar if freed from the cocoon prematurely, will not be able to develop.
Please allow me to see any struggles I may go through as a blessing and hopefully I too can mature into something more than just a grub in a cocoon. Mature into a moth at least and develop the wings necessary to do something spiritually significant in your service.
Your Servant,
Krsna Prasada das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
In an attempt to write some words of appreciation and gratitude, Im thinking why is this such a struggle every year? It shouldn't be, there are so many things I could say to glorify you. I then meditated on the struggles that Srila Prabhupada went through, to deliver Krsna Consciousness to the world and the struggles you encountered to serve Srila Prabhupada in his mission. Initially not having a desire to distribute his books but having a determined desire to love it. Smuggling books behind the iron curtain and narrowly avoiding situations with the KGB, just to name a few.
Now you are willingly struggling to try and help as many of us as possible to become Krsna Conscious.
Humanities problems are undoubtedly stemming from within each and every individual. Previously most peoples problems were more on an external level. What to speak of this day and age with Mental illnesses, Depression etc. Most people are suffering internally. All because they don't understand who they are. As a so-called practicing devotee, I too struggle with this one simple point, not knowing who I truly am. If only I understood, my days would be constructed so much more efficiently. If only I could see how quickly this lifetime is disappearing before my eyes. This is the evidence I have not understood this simple fact.
As I have recently read in the 3rd Canto of Srimad Bhagavatam.
‘Time can control only those who are body conscious.’
Time is getting the better of me because of this very point.
External time continues, but it has no ability to control Krsna because he is the controller of time. In the Spiritual World there is time, but it has no control over activities. Time is unlimited, and the Spiritual World is also unlimited. You are such an example of someone not controlled by time. It doesn't matter where you are or where you go, you seem to transcend time through your unflinching Bhakti, whether this life or the next, it is all absolute.
You are like the caterpillar that has struggled in its cocoon and has now matured into a beautiful butterfly. We can see, without the struggles we would not be able to mature in Bhakti, just as the caterpillar if freed from the cocoon prematurely, will not be able to develop.
Please allow me to see any struggles I may go through as a blessing and hopefully I too can mature into something more than just a grub in a cocoon. Mature into a moth at least and develop the wings necessary to do something spiritually significant in your service.
Your Servant,
Krsna Prasada das
Krsnamrita das and Rasamrita devi dasi
namo om visnu padaya krsna prestaya bhutale
srimati devamrita swami iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your lotus feet.
On this auspicious day of your vyasa puja, we pray to Radha Vallabha and Prabhupada for your good health.
We cannot thank you enough for all the trouble you have to go through, to reach disturbed souls like us so that you can show us the right path. Unfortunately, we take everything for granted and we fail to show our appreciation.
We have benefitted immensely from all your guidance and spiritual enlightenment and we will forever be indebted to you.
You are a power bank of bhakti, being in contact with you we feel recharged.
You are the embodiment of humility, tolerance and sincerity. We feel very fortunate to be under the guidance of such a strong personality.
We are truly in awe when we see how tolerant you are; very often people challenge you and ask thoughtless questions but you patiently educate them.
Dear Gurudev, we truly hope that we can appreciate your transcendental position and that we can become more sincere.
Thank you for everything.
Aspiring to be your servants,
Krsnamrita das and Rasamrita devi dasi
srimati devamrita swami iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your lotus feet.
On this auspicious day of your vyasa puja, we pray to Radha Vallabha and Prabhupada for your good health.
We cannot thank you enough for all the trouble you have to go through, to reach disturbed souls like us so that you can show us the right path. Unfortunately, we take everything for granted and we fail to show our appreciation.
We have benefitted immensely from all your guidance and spiritual enlightenment and we will forever be indebted to you.
You are a power bank of bhakti, being in contact with you we feel recharged.
You are the embodiment of humility, tolerance and sincerity. We feel very fortunate to be under the guidance of such a strong personality.
We are truly in awe when we see how tolerant you are; very often people challenge you and ask thoughtless questions but you patiently educate them.
Dear Gurudev, we truly hope that we can appreciate your transcendental position and that we can become more sincere.
Thank you for everything.
Aspiring to be your servants,
Krsnamrita das and Rasamrita devi dasi
Krsnananda dasa
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept thousands of prostrated obeisances unto you on this auspicious occasion.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Recently, whilst driving you to Palmerston North, I overheard you speaking to a devotee (without knowing who you were referring to) that “we don’t give up on devotees, every devotee is a work in progress” and as I heard that, internally I rejoiced and thought “Oh thank Krsna, there is hope for me yet!”.
I think one of the reasons you are such a successful leader, father, guru in this splendid Krsna consciousness movement is that you tirelessly go about the task of getting your disciples to work on themselves. Thoroughly. There is nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. We must face the demons that lie within. What choice do we have? Such is the standard that it’s almost an unwritten rule that in becoming your disciple, we are signing up to engage robustly in the anartha nivritti process. The reward is great. We come out the other end (eventually) as a saint - replete with all good qualities. The proof is in the sweet-rice pudding. I just look around at my godbrothers and sisters and observe their character. I am a long way behind, and my path is riddled with mistakes and offenses. But I am still here, trying to be sincere. Trying to chant this wonderful Hare Krsna maha mantra.
For some time now I have reflecting on what it means to be steady in Krsna consciousness. Hearing a magnificent Srimad Bhagavatam lecture that you gave (they are all masterpieces!) at the mid-year festival 2017 you stressed the importance of stable ashramas. What hope do we have of laying the foundations for Varnashrama without stable ashramas? Without that stability, going on and on about Varnashrama this, Varnashrama that is simply mental platform. Wow. What a gem of a realization!
Stability. This is paramount. Please allow me to share some realizations in this regard as I delve into a period of my life focused on self-development. May this please you.
1) Drop personal ambition for the sake of the collective good.
It’s taken me years but I am finally beginning to understand how problematic it is in maintaining material desires of selfish personal ambition. “I want to be a big someone in this world, I want to be sophisticated”, the inner voice of the false ego calls. “I have to be renowned, famous even, for my abilities.” Granted, we are impelled to act by our nature. But irrespective of this, whether we are a street sweeper or president-in-waiting, what is crucial for spiritual wellbeing is being honest of where we are really at in our spiritual development and work from that level.
Materially motivated ambition can jeopardise stability. Turning over a new leaf in my life, I feel more peaceful in just being a small person, an insignificant personality. Let me take up a low position in society, if it means I can be a good husband, a good father and ultimately demonstrate stable family life.
2) Drop the self-entitlement trip.
For years frustration has mounted due to feeling entitled to experience easy street that was not forthcoming. Why? What am I entitled to exactly? A free ride in a fancy car? In understanding my conditioning better and the patterns of my karmic run-off (Vedic astrology has been such a useful guide in understanding this) I am trying to be more peaceful with my lot in life (materially). In this egalitarian culture we are raised in the subtle contamination of self-entitlement can leave us frustrated because we expect to be mollycoddled towards a comfortable, pleasant life. Reality check. This is the material world. What are we really entitled to? Krsna’s service under Sri Guru’s care. This is actually our genuine rite of passage.
3) Accepting that at this stage of our society, taking up the grhastha ashrama means being a pioneer.
Why a pioneer? My rationale is that this is the default position, even without trying to do anything extraordinary. The Krsna consciousness movement was begun in unique circumstances. The early devotees pioneered global outreach under Srila Prabhupadas direction. In addition to continuing and expanding the outreach, our generation has been bequeathed the service of pioneering facilities which make it easy to practice bhakti throughout one’s entire life.
A generation of stable householders able to go the distance, make it to retirement age, demonstrate spiritual potency and strength in numbers as vanaprasthas has yet to manifest in our society on any large scale collectively. But when it does, ISKCON will be much stronger. Can our generation achieve this? This is the test for us. To play my part in this mission, I have to examine every nook and cranny of my conditioned nature, throw out what is not wanted, and be the best I can be.
4) Accepting that at this stage of our society, taking up the grhastha ashrama means endeavouring to balance two vastly different worlds.
It seems there is an inherent instability that comes when balancing two vastly different cultures. Vedic culture vs. materialist culture. As a householder we can often find ourselves squashed in an awkward position between the two.
The quest in modern society to ‘fit in’ as an employable, committed, efficient economic unit of production can be intense and thus working out when in the day we can chant those 16 rounds is something of a puzzle. Just as one will find challenge in having one foot in one boat, and the other foot in another, the juggling act involved here is a challenge. As society becomes increasingly volatile and dysfunctional (and expensive!), the importance of keeping things simple grows. Exactly as you describe in your lectures.
You are the spiritual guide for us all and by your example you encourage us to be the best we can be! I am also very grateful to you Gurudeva for consistently giving us opportunities for siksa guidance from splendid senior householders who are such wonderful shining examples.
5) a) Kali-yuga upbringing can mean lots of big ugly samskaras.
We all are experiencing happiness and distress as a result of our previous pious and impious activities. I can better understand now the type of samskaras which manifest from growing up with unstable/broken family life. This has been my experience. I only have myself to blame of course (difficult karma). Looking back over the last few years I can see how inner weaknesses, inner insecurities were being covered over by a front of external confidence, intellectual bravado, and fault-finding. This is the trick of the false ego. As you always do, you encourage your disciples to roll up their shirt sleeves and work on those anarthas. I am inspired by this and am knuckling down to overhaul the fake me and bring out the real me – a humble servant of the servants of Sri Hari.
b) Realizing what an incredible opportunity a child has being born in a devotee family.
Something that has inspired me as a parent and husband is the great benefit, the great head-start one can give a child by providing a spiritually-infused, stable upbringing. Undoubtedly turbulence may be there at times due to some difficult karma, but we can strive to give them the best foundation available on this planet at this time. We know the demigods are itching to take birth on this planet, and when the facilities become more established and stable, they will come in larger numbers into devotee families. Birth by birth, the consciousness on this planet can be uplifted, and the war against maya greatly boosted.
6) Our battle of Kuruksetra is not some future event. It is in the here and now.
In early years of bhakti, we learn how to keep everything neat and tidy, clean, take sufficient rest, do some yoga, get all our 16 rounds done before 7am etc. Then comes householder life (with kids) and nice plans for orderliness can swiftly go out the window. Let the chaos begin. It’s easy to get a little perturbed at the contrast. At times I wonder whether I will survive it all, however then I remember Arjuna’s situation and the environment he was in. Battles are chaotic. BUT within them, if one thinks of Krsna whilst carrying out his or her prescribed duties he/she can achieve perfection. So it is not necessarily the external situation, but what is happening internally that counts. One can even become a nappy-changing paramahamsa! Just see how versatile Krsna’s program is.
7) Finding inspiration in the long-term plan
Foundations bring stability to the structure.
Without a successful social structure we will limit our mission potential.
Without stable ashramas we don’t have the robust foundations we need.
A functioning Varnashrama system will make it easier for people to gradually take up the process of Krsna consciousness for thousands of years to come.
We are the pioneers of this great endeavour.
Imperceptibly, step by step, we are laying these foundations.
Under your guidance.
Dear spiritual father. I hope the above thoughts are ok.
Thank you so very much for allowing me to attend the Varnashrama conference, Gita Nagari, September 2016. In the words of HG Tukaram Prabhu speaking there, it was Srila Prabhupadas dying wish that Varnashrama be established in our society. I have full faith that you are serving our founder acharya’s desire by guiding us to be stable in our ashramas. This is the beginning point.
You perfectly demonstrate this as you have remained powerful and steady in the sannyasa ashrama for 35 years!
Gurudeva, O lion-hearted leader. Please bless me, please empower me to be the best I can be in my endeavour to please you, to please Srila Prabhupada, the Parampara and ultimately to please our eternal friend, Sri Bhakta Vatsala, the Lord of the heart.
Aspiring to be a tiny instrument.
Your indebted servant
Krsnananda dasa
Please accept thousands of prostrated obeisances unto you on this auspicious occasion.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Recently, whilst driving you to Palmerston North, I overheard you speaking to a devotee (without knowing who you were referring to) that “we don’t give up on devotees, every devotee is a work in progress” and as I heard that, internally I rejoiced and thought “Oh thank Krsna, there is hope for me yet!”.
I think one of the reasons you are such a successful leader, father, guru in this splendid Krsna consciousness movement is that you tirelessly go about the task of getting your disciples to work on themselves. Thoroughly. There is nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. We must face the demons that lie within. What choice do we have? Such is the standard that it’s almost an unwritten rule that in becoming your disciple, we are signing up to engage robustly in the anartha nivritti process. The reward is great. We come out the other end (eventually) as a saint - replete with all good qualities. The proof is in the sweet-rice pudding. I just look around at my godbrothers and sisters and observe their character. I am a long way behind, and my path is riddled with mistakes and offenses. But I am still here, trying to be sincere. Trying to chant this wonderful Hare Krsna maha mantra.
For some time now I have reflecting on what it means to be steady in Krsna consciousness. Hearing a magnificent Srimad Bhagavatam lecture that you gave (they are all masterpieces!) at the mid-year festival 2017 you stressed the importance of stable ashramas. What hope do we have of laying the foundations for Varnashrama without stable ashramas? Without that stability, going on and on about Varnashrama this, Varnashrama that is simply mental platform. Wow. What a gem of a realization!
Stability. This is paramount. Please allow me to share some realizations in this regard as I delve into a period of my life focused on self-development. May this please you.
1) Drop personal ambition for the sake of the collective good.
It’s taken me years but I am finally beginning to understand how problematic it is in maintaining material desires of selfish personal ambition. “I want to be a big someone in this world, I want to be sophisticated”, the inner voice of the false ego calls. “I have to be renowned, famous even, for my abilities.” Granted, we are impelled to act by our nature. But irrespective of this, whether we are a street sweeper or president-in-waiting, what is crucial for spiritual wellbeing is being honest of where we are really at in our spiritual development and work from that level.
Materially motivated ambition can jeopardise stability. Turning over a new leaf in my life, I feel more peaceful in just being a small person, an insignificant personality. Let me take up a low position in society, if it means I can be a good husband, a good father and ultimately demonstrate stable family life.
2) Drop the self-entitlement trip.
For years frustration has mounted due to feeling entitled to experience easy street that was not forthcoming. Why? What am I entitled to exactly? A free ride in a fancy car? In understanding my conditioning better and the patterns of my karmic run-off (Vedic astrology has been such a useful guide in understanding this) I am trying to be more peaceful with my lot in life (materially). In this egalitarian culture we are raised in the subtle contamination of self-entitlement can leave us frustrated because we expect to be mollycoddled towards a comfortable, pleasant life. Reality check. This is the material world. What are we really entitled to? Krsna’s service under Sri Guru’s care. This is actually our genuine rite of passage.
3) Accepting that at this stage of our society, taking up the grhastha ashrama means being a pioneer.
Why a pioneer? My rationale is that this is the default position, even without trying to do anything extraordinary. The Krsna consciousness movement was begun in unique circumstances. The early devotees pioneered global outreach under Srila Prabhupadas direction. In addition to continuing and expanding the outreach, our generation has been bequeathed the service of pioneering facilities which make it easy to practice bhakti throughout one’s entire life.
A generation of stable householders able to go the distance, make it to retirement age, demonstrate spiritual potency and strength in numbers as vanaprasthas has yet to manifest in our society on any large scale collectively. But when it does, ISKCON will be much stronger. Can our generation achieve this? This is the test for us. To play my part in this mission, I have to examine every nook and cranny of my conditioned nature, throw out what is not wanted, and be the best I can be.
4) Accepting that at this stage of our society, taking up the grhastha ashrama means endeavouring to balance two vastly different worlds.
It seems there is an inherent instability that comes when balancing two vastly different cultures. Vedic culture vs. materialist culture. As a householder we can often find ourselves squashed in an awkward position between the two.
The quest in modern society to ‘fit in’ as an employable, committed, efficient economic unit of production can be intense and thus working out when in the day we can chant those 16 rounds is something of a puzzle. Just as one will find challenge in having one foot in one boat, and the other foot in another, the juggling act involved here is a challenge. As society becomes increasingly volatile and dysfunctional (and expensive!), the importance of keeping things simple grows. Exactly as you describe in your lectures.
You are the spiritual guide for us all and by your example you encourage us to be the best we can be! I am also very grateful to you Gurudeva for consistently giving us opportunities for siksa guidance from splendid senior householders who are such wonderful shining examples.
5) a) Kali-yuga upbringing can mean lots of big ugly samskaras.
We all are experiencing happiness and distress as a result of our previous pious and impious activities. I can better understand now the type of samskaras which manifest from growing up with unstable/broken family life. This has been my experience. I only have myself to blame of course (difficult karma). Looking back over the last few years I can see how inner weaknesses, inner insecurities were being covered over by a front of external confidence, intellectual bravado, and fault-finding. This is the trick of the false ego. As you always do, you encourage your disciples to roll up their shirt sleeves and work on those anarthas. I am inspired by this and am knuckling down to overhaul the fake me and bring out the real me – a humble servant of the servants of Sri Hari.
b) Realizing what an incredible opportunity a child has being born in a devotee family.
Something that has inspired me as a parent and husband is the great benefit, the great head-start one can give a child by providing a spiritually-infused, stable upbringing. Undoubtedly turbulence may be there at times due to some difficult karma, but we can strive to give them the best foundation available on this planet at this time. We know the demigods are itching to take birth on this planet, and when the facilities become more established and stable, they will come in larger numbers into devotee families. Birth by birth, the consciousness on this planet can be uplifted, and the war against maya greatly boosted.
6) Our battle of Kuruksetra is not some future event. It is in the here and now.
In early years of bhakti, we learn how to keep everything neat and tidy, clean, take sufficient rest, do some yoga, get all our 16 rounds done before 7am etc. Then comes householder life (with kids) and nice plans for orderliness can swiftly go out the window. Let the chaos begin. It’s easy to get a little perturbed at the contrast. At times I wonder whether I will survive it all, however then I remember Arjuna’s situation and the environment he was in. Battles are chaotic. BUT within them, if one thinks of Krsna whilst carrying out his or her prescribed duties he/she can achieve perfection. So it is not necessarily the external situation, but what is happening internally that counts. One can even become a nappy-changing paramahamsa! Just see how versatile Krsna’s program is.
7) Finding inspiration in the long-term plan
Foundations bring stability to the structure.
Without a successful social structure we will limit our mission potential.
Without stable ashramas we don’t have the robust foundations we need.
A functioning Varnashrama system will make it easier for people to gradually take up the process of Krsna consciousness for thousands of years to come.
We are the pioneers of this great endeavour.
Imperceptibly, step by step, we are laying these foundations.
Under your guidance.
Dear spiritual father. I hope the above thoughts are ok.
Thank you so very much for allowing me to attend the Varnashrama conference, Gita Nagari, September 2016. In the words of HG Tukaram Prabhu speaking there, it was Srila Prabhupadas dying wish that Varnashrama be established in our society. I have full faith that you are serving our founder acharya’s desire by guiding us to be stable in our ashramas. This is the beginning point.
You perfectly demonstrate this as you have remained powerful and steady in the sannyasa ashrama for 35 years!
Gurudeva, O lion-hearted leader. Please bless me, please empower me to be the best I can be in my endeavour to please you, to please Srila Prabhupada, the Parampara and ultimately to please our eternal friend, Sri Bhakta Vatsala, the Lord of the heart.
Aspiring to be a tiny instrument.
Your indebted servant
Krsnananda dasa
Kula Pavana Das
nama oṁ viṣnu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
I had this rookie doubt back in my mind for a while, that how guru protect us always.
One of my siksha gurus always mentions this point to me on every task I intend to do, that your guru will always take care of you. He can see and guide you and put you in right direction even though we take wrong decisions with our limited knowledge.
I always wonder how this can happen, though I have been practicing Krishna Conciousness for a while, but I could only realise this recently with few incidents that took place in our life and I realised that, you always been guiding me and protecting me ever since I come under your shelter. All these years I have been thinking any good is because of my efforts and non-favourable to me is by mear fate and say krishna is testing.
to quote one, we started realising the efforts that needed in preaching while hosting BV in our home. It is not just that you read a book and repeat the same, so that people becomes devotee, but the amount of effort that require behind this are immense. It purifying at least for us, we could see the painstaking care you take in guiding us, when we come to you with our silly excuses of why we are not able to chant properly and do a particular thing in a devotee friendly way. you always listen to us patiently and guide us nicely without hurting.
Gurudev you are an expert preacher. Every time we face a situation we find a solution for that through your lectures although we heard the lecture numerous times in the past and ignored completely, but that particular point is being highlighted.
Dear Gurudev you have dedicated your life exclusively to serve Srila Prabhupada, on this auspicious occasion we only request you to use us in your preaching mission to Srila Prabhupada and make us strong in our Sadhana. Always Always Always bless us to keep the serving mood irrespective of our situation.
Your Humble Servants,
Kula Pavana Das
Bhuvana Pavana Devi Dasi
Bhakti Yamuna
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
I had this rookie doubt back in my mind for a while, that how guru protect us always.
One of my siksha gurus always mentions this point to me on every task I intend to do, that your guru will always take care of you. He can see and guide you and put you in right direction even though we take wrong decisions with our limited knowledge.
I always wonder how this can happen, though I have been practicing Krishna Conciousness for a while, but I could only realise this recently with few incidents that took place in our life and I realised that, you always been guiding me and protecting me ever since I come under your shelter. All these years I have been thinking any good is because of my efforts and non-favourable to me is by mear fate and say krishna is testing.
to quote one, we started realising the efforts that needed in preaching while hosting BV in our home. It is not just that you read a book and repeat the same, so that people becomes devotee, but the amount of effort that require behind this are immense. It purifying at least for us, we could see the painstaking care you take in guiding us, when we come to you with our silly excuses of why we are not able to chant properly and do a particular thing in a devotee friendly way. you always listen to us patiently and guide us nicely without hurting.
Gurudev you are an expert preacher. Every time we face a situation we find a solution for that through your lectures although we heard the lecture numerous times in the past and ignored completely, but that particular point is being highlighted.
Dear Gurudev you have dedicated your life exclusively to serve Srila Prabhupada, on this auspicious occasion we only request you to use us in your preaching mission to Srila Prabhupada and make us strong in our Sadhana. Always Always Always bless us to keep the serving mood irrespective of our situation.
Your Humble Servants,
Kula Pavana Das
Bhuvana Pavana Devi Dasi
Bhakti Yamuna
Kurmadeva Das
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories Sri Guru and Gauranga!
All glories dear Guru Maharaja!
In his day of vyasa-puja we remember his magnificent person, and his wonderful qualities.
you are a Vaishnava first class, expert in relationships and loving with devotees, your unlimited service is exemplary, your resignation, determination, intelligence, purity, gentleness, humility, etc ... you are a source of all good qualities, your preaching is very effective, and your body shows all the auspicious symbols of a liberated soul, we thank you for all your efforts all these years, thank you for saving so many conditioned souls, we thank all that you do for your beloved spiritual Master.
Happy vyasa-puja 2017
Hopefully one day i have 1% of your qualities
Your eternal servant
Kurmadeva Das
All glories Sri Guru and Gauranga!
All glories dear Guru Maharaja!
In his day of vyasa-puja we remember his magnificent person, and his wonderful qualities.
you are a Vaishnava first class, expert in relationships and loving with devotees, your unlimited service is exemplary, your resignation, determination, intelligence, purity, gentleness, humility, etc ... you are a source of all good qualities, your preaching is very effective, and your body shows all the auspicious symbols of a liberated soul, we thank you for all your efforts all these years, thank you for saving so many conditioned souls, we thank all that you do for your beloved spiritual Master.
Happy vyasa-puja 2017
Hopefully one day i have 1% of your qualities
Your eternal servant
Kurmadeva Das
Lalita Krishna Lane
To Maharaja
Thank you for helping us in Krishna Consciousness.
I am grateful for growing up in Krishna consciousness.
I want to thank you again and again.
You are so generous in giving Krishna to others.
From Lalita Krishna
Thank you for helping us in Krishna Consciousness.
I am grateful for growing up in Krishna consciousness.
I want to thank you again and again.
You are so generous in giving Krishna to others.
From Lalita Krishna
Lavangi devi dasi
Hare Krishna dear Gurumaharaj! Please accept my humble obeisances! All glories to Srila Prabhupada! During this auspicious day of Your Vyasa puja, I would like to glorify and thank You. You serve so honourably to Your spiritual master Srila Prabhupada and by Your example You show us how one should serve his spiritual master and Krishna.
You are a great devotee of the Lord. I am very grateful to You for You have shown mercy upon me and devotees and You give opportunity to serve You.
Thank you, that You give spiritual strength, thanks to which I have determination to continue on this path back to Godhead.
Your eternal servant, Lavangi dd.
You are a great devotee of the Lord. I am very grateful to You for You have shown mercy upon me and devotees and You give opportunity to serve You.
Thank you, that You give spiritual strength, thanks to which I have determination to continue on this path back to Godhead.
Your eternal servant, Lavangi dd.
Lavanya-kel
Dearest Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada for giving you the strength, intelligence, and inspiration to come to New Zealand to give Krishna to others.
I have been meditating on this point for many months: alone, Krishna consciousness is very difficult.
The moment we feel alone is when maya is strongest. She has snares hidden in every nook and cranny of life, if we aren’t careful she can snag us. She’s always alert to distort our mind, ever ready to point out the gold at the end of the rainbow or expertly sell us a juicy looking apple covered in poison. When we are alone, we fall for her tricks because we are weak.
Yet, Prabhupada explains that if one simply takes shelter of the spiritual master, one should see that he has received the grace of the Lord and can overcome mayas tricks. This is because the spiritual master becomes the captain of our ship and is expert at sailing through mayas storms. With the spiritual master, the vedic scriptures, and the Lord Himself from within, there is no chance of a devotee falling again into material illusion, theoretically we are safe.
But still, a devotee can be weak.
Therefore you, the most expert captain, have created so many tools and safeguards to ensure we don’t drift off course.
You have made it easy to come to Krishna consciousness and stay in Krishna consciousness.
You have created so much shelter, support and care. I see your hand in every aspect of our community.
The love and care I receive from Krishnaloka, stems from the training, as well as love and care, you personally gave her. Through her guidance, I receive your shelter and protection.
The opportunity to become and stay enlivened through outreach is ever at my finger tips. There are endless opportunities to give Krishna to others because you have empowered, supported and pushed devotees to expand and develop Bhakti Lounge.
Your personal instructions have helped my wild artistic mind focus on Krishnas service, they give me goals to strive for.
Sanga is so readily available in our community because devotees are so attracted and supported that they want to stay and grow in Krishna consciousness. We are therefore able to support and encourage each other under your fatherly guidance.
I have everything I materially need, that is very obvious. I also have everything I spiritually need, except the purity to properly see that. But because Krishnas service as well as spiritual support is so readily available, in time, I will be able to see the spiritual gem I am holding. From observing your senior disciples, I know this to be a fact.
Because of your guidance, I am not alone in Krishna consciousness. Because of your guidance, I know I can grow in Krishna consciousness. Because of your guidance, I know I can develop the skills to give Krishna consciousness to others.
Thank you for your decades of sacrifice that went into developing this Bhakti Lounge community Gurudeva. This is a debt I can never truly repay, but I hope to spend a lifetime trying.
Your aspiring servant,
Lavnaya-keli dd
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada for giving you the strength, intelligence, and inspiration to come to New Zealand to give Krishna to others.
I have been meditating on this point for many months: alone, Krishna consciousness is very difficult.
The moment we feel alone is when maya is strongest. She has snares hidden in every nook and cranny of life, if we aren’t careful she can snag us. She’s always alert to distort our mind, ever ready to point out the gold at the end of the rainbow or expertly sell us a juicy looking apple covered in poison. When we are alone, we fall for her tricks because we are weak.
Yet, Prabhupada explains that if one simply takes shelter of the spiritual master, one should see that he has received the grace of the Lord and can overcome mayas tricks. This is because the spiritual master becomes the captain of our ship and is expert at sailing through mayas storms. With the spiritual master, the vedic scriptures, and the Lord Himself from within, there is no chance of a devotee falling again into material illusion, theoretically we are safe.
But still, a devotee can be weak.
Therefore you, the most expert captain, have created so many tools and safeguards to ensure we don’t drift off course.
You have made it easy to come to Krishna consciousness and stay in Krishna consciousness.
You have created so much shelter, support and care. I see your hand in every aspect of our community.
The love and care I receive from Krishnaloka, stems from the training, as well as love and care, you personally gave her. Through her guidance, I receive your shelter and protection.
The opportunity to become and stay enlivened through outreach is ever at my finger tips. There are endless opportunities to give Krishna to others because you have empowered, supported and pushed devotees to expand and develop Bhakti Lounge.
Your personal instructions have helped my wild artistic mind focus on Krishnas service, they give me goals to strive for.
Sanga is so readily available in our community because devotees are so attracted and supported that they want to stay and grow in Krishna consciousness. We are therefore able to support and encourage each other under your fatherly guidance.
I have everything I materially need, that is very obvious. I also have everything I spiritually need, except the purity to properly see that. But because Krishnas service as well as spiritual support is so readily available, in time, I will be able to see the spiritual gem I am holding. From observing your senior disciples, I know this to be a fact.
Because of your guidance, I am not alone in Krishna consciousness. Because of your guidance, I know I can grow in Krishna consciousness. Because of your guidance, I know I can develop the skills to give Krishna consciousness to others.
Thank you for your decades of sacrifice that went into developing this Bhakti Lounge community Gurudeva. This is a debt I can never truly repay, but I hope to spend a lifetime trying.
Your aspiring servant,
Lavnaya-keli dd
Lila-madhurya dasi and Venu-madhurya das
Dear Gurudeva,
please accept our humble obeisances at Your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to Your selfless constant service to Him.
Like a beautiful moon reflecting bright sun, You deliver Founder Acarya's message to fallen conditioned souls like us.
As a genuine spiritual master You can uplift disciple from any mode of material nature and engage one by Your causeless mercy in devotional service to the Lord. With Your brilliant and unparalleled strategy You have used excellent management skills to trick modern day conditioned souls by various Lofts, Bhakti Lounges, Mantra Lounges to convert their weird habits into spiritual top most practice, meanwhile purifying their bodies, minds and intelligence. How smart, how timely, how rare. You have engaged everything for the purpose of serving Their Lordships, namely technologies, news, trends, arts, fashions, cuisine, cultures, mentalities, psychology, as an experienced global spiritual leader You know well how to act according to time, place and circumstances. Having a sharp analysis and all the qualifications, purity and humbleness, You follow in the footsteps of Narada Muni as it is stated in Srimad Bhagavatam 1.6.26:
Purport:
"The life of a sincere devotee of the Lord is thus explained in a nutshell by Nārada Muni by his personal example. Such a devotee, after his initiation by the Lord or His bona fide representative, takes very seriously chanting of the glories of the Lord and traveling all over the world so that others may also hear the glories of the Lord. Such devotees have no desire for material gain. They are conducted by one single desire: to go back to Godhead. This awaits them in due course on quitting the material body. Because they have the highest aim of life, going back to Godhead, they are never envious of anyone, nor are they proud of being eligible to go back to Godhead. Their only business is to chant and remember the holy name, fame and pastimes of the Lord and, according to personal capacity, to distribute the message for others’ welfare without motive of material gain."
And how wonderful is Your capacity --> tireless traveling, constant preaching, GBC responsibilities, dealing with disciples issues and taking personal care of them, festivals, BBT work supervision, writing new books, making new video blogs, keeping up personal sadhana of chanting, reading, listening to Prabhupada's lectures, reciting slokas or chanting bhajans, visiting holy Dhama, maintaining heart-melting vaishnava relationships with Godbrothers and godsisters, developing strategies for spreading Sankirtana movement in the countries You are responsible for and more, taking care of bodily needs due to age and selfless service, also teaching us how to deal with mundane relatives, protecting cows by developing farm projects and teaching Vrindavana atmosphere, ensuring top most standard of Deity worship, inspiring book reading and distribution. Above all Your compassion has no limits, and Your deep desire to please Srila Prabhupada is touching even the iron hearts of ours. Only an empowered pure devotee of the Lord can master all of that by His grace.
Often we call ourselves Your servants but in fact the true servant is You, You are the one who gave Yourself completely to spiritual master, Krishna and Vaishnavas. You never expect from us anything for Yourself. You are always ready to give. Very personally You are taking care of every soul, that tries to find shelter at Your lotus feet. You give us taste for the holy names, deepen our understanding Krishna as a personality. Dear Gurudeva even a tiny attempt to serve Your lotus feet brings true happiness and makes life meaningful. In this auspicious day of Your appearance we fall at Your lotus feet and beg so that every moment of our life became full of service to You and Vaishnavas and such service would become our life and soul.
Your insignificant servants,
Lila-madhurya dasi and Venu-madhurya das
please accept our humble obeisances at Your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to Your selfless constant service to Him.
Like a beautiful moon reflecting bright sun, You deliver Founder Acarya's message to fallen conditioned souls like us.
As a genuine spiritual master You can uplift disciple from any mode of material nature and engage one by Your causeless mercy in devotional service to the Lord. With Your brilliant and unparalleled strategy You have used excellent management skills to trick modern day conditioned souls by various Lofts, Bhakti Lounges, Mantra Lounges to convert their weird habits into spiritual top most practice, meanwhile purifying their bodies, minds and intelligence. How smart, how timely, how rare. You have engaged everything for the purpose of serving Their Lordships, namely technologies, news, trends, arts, fashions, cuisine, cultures, mentalities, psychology, as an experienced global spiritual leader You know well how to act according to time, place and circumstances. Having a sharp analysis and all the qualifications, purity and humbleness, You follow in the footsteps of Narada Muni as it is stated in Srimad Bhagavatam 1.6.26:
Purport:
"The life of a sincere devotee of the Lord is thus explained in a nutshell by Nārada Muni by his personal example. Such a devotee, after his initiation by the Lord or His bona fide representative, takes very seriously chanting of the glories of the Lord and traveling all over the world so that others may also hear the glories of the Lord. Such devotees have no desire for material gain. They are conducted by one single desire: to go back to Godhead. This awaits them in due course on quitting the material body. Because they have the highest aim of life, going back to Godhead, they are never envious of anyone, nor are they proud of being eligible to go back to Godhead. Their only business is to chant and remember the holy name, fame and pastimes of the Lord and, according to personal capacity, to distribute the message for others’ welfare without motive of material gain."
And how wonderful is Your capacity --> tireless traveling, constant preaching, GBC responsibilities, dealing with disciples issues and taking personal care of them, festivals, BBT work supervision, writing new books, making new video blogs, keeping up personal sadhana of chanting, reading, listening to Prabhupada's lectures, reciting slokas or chanting bhajans, visiting holy Dhama, maintaining heart-melting vaishnava relationships with Godbrothers and godsisters, developing strategies for spreading Sankirtana movement in the countries You are responsible for and more, taking care of bodily needs due to age and selfless service, also teaching us how to deal with mundane relatives, protecting cows by developing farm projects and teaching Vrindavana atmosphere, ensuring top most standard of Deity worship, inspiring book reading and distribution. Above all Your compassion has no limits, and Your deep desire to please Srila Prabhupada is touching even the iron hearts of ours. Only an empowered pure devotee of the Lord can master all of that by His grace.
Often we call ourselves Your servants but in fact the true servant is You, You are the one who gave Yourself completely to spiritual master, Krishna and Vaishnavas. You never expect from us anything for Yourself. You are always ready to give. Very personally You are taking care of every soul, that tries to find shelter at Your lotus feet. You give us taste for the holy names, deepen our understanding Krishna as a personality. Dear Gurudeva even a tiny attempt to serve Your lotus feet brings true happiness and makes life meaningful. In this auspicious day of Your appearance we fall at Your lotus feet and beg so that every moment of our life became full of service to You and Vaishnavas and such service would become our life and soul.
Your insignificant servants,
Lila-madhurya dasi and Venu-madhurya das
Lilamayi Subhadra dasi
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Reflecting on our relationship through the years; I remember your initial visits to South Africa where you captured our attention with your humor and intelligence, and proceeded to cut through the sentimentality to get us thinking and functioning more effectively. We learnt early on to think before we speak as you wouldn't let us get away with careless words.
I remember your letters of encouragement and how you seemed to take great pleasure when I would enthusiastically do something sensible and beneficial for my own spiritual growth. I learnt that you are kind and caring and fun.
I remember getting blasted for acting selfishly and without consideration and, like a sulky child, taking months to recover from it. I learnt that you are personal and invested in the relationship.
I remember your continued visits and all the time and effort you put into supporting a temple/preaching centre in an identity crisis to work things out. Your uni talks, student picnics, devotee retreats, classes while being filmed by TV crews, Yoga Lounge discussions, guest audiences, the list goes on.... I learnt that you are expert at presenting the science of bhakti and providing a platform for people to become strong in its practice.
I remember coming to New Zealand, experiencing the Loft and the devotees that came through the Loft - their focus, how well read they are and their particular way of presenting what they've learnt to others - very practical and effective. I learnt that you have a very clear understanding of the mood and teachings of Srila Prabhupada, you have taken it to heart and are doing something amazing for the future of the Krishna consciousness movement.
I remember a particularly special time; where you would stay with us. And I got to cook for you and run errands for you and you would casually pop in the back door to speak with us. I learnt that you are humble and appreciative, personal and loving, and that you live what you teach - your focus never blurs, your sadhana is always strong, you invest countless hours in devotee care and maintenance. You are clean and tidy, and very generous. You take care of your health and you show concern for the well-being of others.
And I remember the recent years... my seven years of struggle. Where I've been trying to salvage some form of sadhana from the wreckage of doubt and fear. And trying to somehow remain connected to Krishna consciousness while questioning everything I once felt so sure of. I have learnt that you are committed and kind. That you will be there through it all and that I can count on you. And that ultimately, when nothing makes sense and I can find no reason to carry on, there is this relationship that my heart is forever obliged to.
And though I have nothing, and I know nothing, a meaningful relationship with devotees is my greatest treasure and my saving grace.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Reflecting on our relationship through the years; I remember your initial visits to South Africa where you captured our attention with your humor and intelligence, and proceeded to cut through the sentimentality to get us thinking and functioning more effectively. We learnt early on to think before we speak as you wouldn't let us get away with careless words.
I remember your letters of encouragement and how you seemed to take great pleasure when I would enthusiastically do something sensible and beneficial for my own spiritual growth. I learnt that you are kind and caring and fun.
I remember getting blasted for acting selfishly and without consideration and, like a sulky child, taking months to recover from it. I learnt that you are personal and invested in the relationship.
I remember your continued visits and all the time and effort you put into supporting a temple/preaching centre in an identity crisis to work things out. Your uni talks, student picnics, devotee retreats, classes while being filmed by TV crews, Yoga Lounge discussions, guest audiences, the list goes on.... I learnt that you are expert at presenting the science of bhakti and providing a platform for people to become strong in its practice.
I remember coming to New Zealand, experiencing the Loft and the devotees that came through the Loft - their focus, how well read they are and their particular way of presenting what they've learnt to others - very practical and effective. I learnt that you have a very clear understanding of the mood and teachings of Srila Prabhupada, you have taken it to heart and are doing something amazing for the future of the Krishna consciousness movement.
I remember a particularly special time; where you would stay with us. And I got to cook for you and run errands for you and you would casually pop in the back door to speak with us. I learnt that you are humble and appreciative, personal and loving, and that you live what you teach - your focus never blurs, your sadhana is always strong, you invest countless hours in devotee care and maintenance. You are clean and tidy, and very generous. You take care of your health and you show concern for the well-being of others.
And I remember the recent years... my seven years of struggle. Where I've been trying to salvage some form of sadhana from the wreckage of doubt and fear. And trying to somehow remain connected to Krishna consciousness while questioning everything I once felt so sure of. I have learnt that you are committed and kind. That you will be there through it all and that I can count on you. And that ultimately, when nothing makes sense and I can find no reason to carry on, there is this relationship that my heart is forever obliged to.
And though I have nothing, and I know nothing, a meaningful relationship with devotees is my greatest treasure and my saving grace.
Liv Parkinson
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and to you on this auspicious day of your appearance!
I recently remembered a nectar purport that I had read a while ago, which stuck in my mind and inspired me in writing this offering for you.
Prabhupada explains: “As fire is kindled from wood by another fire, the divine consciousness of man can similarly be kindled by another divine grace. His Divine Grace, the spiritual master can kindle the spiritual fire from the wood-like living entity by imparting proper spiritual messages injected through the receptive ear.” (SB 1.2.32)
By your grace, my heart is home in the flood of Harinama Sankirtana- you’ve set me ablaze!
I’ve written a small song for you to somehow express my gratitude for picking me up and kindling my spiritual fire, through your powerful instructions.
Verse 1:
I’d jumped out of the fire, another lost spark
burnt out, dried up, and trampled- alone in the dark
With urgency you couldn't just watch the wood dry up and die,
without the spark ever knowing that their real life is inside
Driven by limitless compassion, your depth of vision allows you to see,
the spark-like inner potential of every wood-like entity.
You traverse the world to scoop us up and fan the spark within our hearts,
illuminating us with knowledge, reminding us we’re all Krishna’s parts
pre-chorus:
You are deep in the fire of devotion, truly tasting real life
while lost sparks become so covered in ignorance and strife.
But you enthusiastically urge us come on, come one, come all
Throw yourself in the fire of Krishna’s service, this is Lord Gauranga’s call!!
Chorus:
Gurudeva you’re my hero, you threw me back into the fire,
your words illuminate my heart, infusing me with spiritual desire
The fire's kindled in japa and from there can only grow,
in kirtan dancing with devotees- it becomes a blazing inferno
and we all take it to the street, our internal fire creates a glow
attracting lost sparks to Krishna's lotus feet- Nitai Gaura Haribol!
...All because you kindled the fire in our hearts
Verse 2:
One match can light a thousand candles, so they say,
you are living proof, as you are firing jivas up every day.
Your bhakti-fuelled enthusiasm, kirtans, lectures, inspire me to the core,
Simply by sticking to your instructions life is never a bore
Your own internal devotional fire blazes so intensely it propels me to serve
Lord Caitanya’s mission, a path you boldly expand and traverse
Please help me always run to your shelter, like a moth to a fire
embracing every chance for Harinama sankirtana- this is my sincere desire
Pre-chorus
Chorus.
Bridge:
By your grace, all us small sparks are dancing within the fire where we belong
everyone’s glowing in their natural glory, chanting the holy song
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare!
Thank you for everything Gurudeva!
Praying for my desires to be always aligned with your internal fire of devotion to spreading Lord Caitanya’s glories, in the association of your sincere and glowing devotees.
Your aspiring servant,
Liv.
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and to you on this auspicious day of your appearance!
I recently remembered a nectar purport that I had read a while ago, which stuck in my mind and inspired me in writing this offering for you.
Prabhupada explains: “As fire is kindled from wood by another fire, the divine consciousness of man can similarly be kindled by another divine grace. His Divine Grace, the spiritual master can kindle the spiritual fire from the wood-like living entity by imparting proper spiritual messages injected through the receptive ear.” (SB 1.2.32)
By your grace, my heart is home in the flood of Harinama Sankirtana- you’ve set me ablaze!
I’ve written a small song for you to somehow express my gratitude for picking me up and kindling my spiritual fire, through your powerful instructions.
Verse 1:
I’d jumped out of the fire, another lost spark
burnt out, dried up, and trampled- alone in the dark
With urgency you couldn't just watch the wood dry up and die,
without the spark ever knowing that their real life is inside
Driven by limitless compassion, your depth of vision allows you to see,
the spark-like inner potential of every wood-like entity.
You traverse the world to scoop us up and fan the spark within our hearts,
illuminating us with knowledge, reminding us we’re all Krishna’s parts
pre-chorus:
You are deep in the fire of devotion, truly tasting real life
while lost sparks become so covered in ignorance and strife.
But you enthusiastically urge us come on, come one, come all
Throw yourself in the fire of Krishna’s service, this is Lord Gauranga’s call!!
Chorus:
Gurudeva you’re my hero, you threw me back into the fire,
your words illuminate my heart, infusing me with spiritual desire
The fire's kindled in japa and from there can only grow,
in kirtan dancing with devotees- it becomes a blazing inferno
and we all take it to the street, our internal fire creates a glow
attracting lost sparks to Krishna's lotus feet- Nitai Gaura Haribol!
...All because you kindled the fire in our hearts
Verse 2:
One match can light a thousand candles, so they say,
you are living proof, as you are firing jivas up every day.
Your bhakti-fuelled enthusiasm, kirtans, lectures, inspire me to the core,
Simply by sticking to your instructions life is never a bore
Your own internal devotional fire blazes so intensely it propels me to serve
Lord Caitanya’s mission, a path you boldly expand and traverse
Please help me always run to your shelter, like a moth to a fire
embracing every chance for Harinama sankirtana- this is my sincere desire
Pre-chorus
Chorus.
Bridge:
By your grace, all us small sparks are dancing within the fire where we belong
everyone’s glowing in their natural glory, chanting the holy song
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare!
Thank you for everything Gurudeva!
Praying for my desires to be always aligned with your internal fire of devotion to spreading Lord Caitanya’s glories, in the association of your sincere and glowing devotees.
Your aspiring servant,
Liv.
Lizzy (Wellington)
Dearest Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to Srila Prabhupada.
What an auspicious day being able to celebrate your appearance. Hare Krishna!
Srila Prabhupada writes in the 8th canto that "A disciple must first decide to worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and then the spiritual master will give the disciple correct directions. One cannot dictate to the spiritual master, just as a patient cannot demand that his physician prescribe a certain type of medicine" (pp. 8.16.22). Gurudeva everyday I am thankful to you for prescribing me the medicine of the Holy name, and i hope one day to rid this disease.
Gurudeva your compassion and instruction is one of the many things about you that inspires me. I love learning from you what real compassion is and I hope one day to let go of the attachment for matter so I can apply real compassion. Your first instruction to me was in regards to the Bhagavad Gita and to “digest it thoroughly and relish real life”. Thank you for encouraging me to actually start being a human being, and inquire about my relationship with the Supreme.
I am what one would call a typical “people pleaser”. Now I want only to be a "Guru and Gauranga pleaser”. Please give me the strength and knowledge to do this, so I can assist you in the blissful Sankirtana mission.
Your aspiring servant,
Lizzy
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to Srila Prabhupada.
What an auspicious day being able to celebrate your appearance. Hare Krishna!
Srila Prabhupada writes in the 8th canto that "A disciple must first decide to worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and then the spiritual master will give the disciple correct directions. One cannot dictate to the spiritual master, just as a patient cannot demand that his physician prescribe a certain type of medicine" (pp. 8.16.22). Gurudeva everyday I am thankful to you for prescribing me the medicine of the Holy name, and i hope one day to rid this disease.
Gurudeva your compassion and instruction is one of the many things about you that inspires me. I love learning from you what real compassion is and I hope one day to let go of the attachment for matter so I can apply real compassion. Your first instruction to me was in regards to the Bhagavad Gita and to “digest it thoroughly and relish real life”. Thank you for encouraging me to actually start being a human being, and inquire about my relationship with the Supreme.
I am what one would call a typical “people pleaser”. Now I want only to be a "Guru and Gauranga pleaser”. Please give me the strength and knowledge to do this, so I can assist you in the blissful Sankirtana mission.
Your aspiring servant,
Lizzy
Madana Mohini devi dasi
Nama om visnu-padaya Krsna presthaya bhutale
Srimate devamrta swamin iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinitah
Paratatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te nama
Dear Guru Maharaja
Since my initiation I am feeling closer to Krishna .
Thank you for accepting me as a disciple even when I have a lot of weaknesses.
By your Mercy I got initiated even when I don’t have enough knowledge about Krishna Consciusness that is why the minimum offering I can do for you and Krishna since my initiation is to chant extra rounds daily. Minimum of 20 rounds and more when possible.
Thank you again for your shelter and help me to grow in my spiritual path is a real honour for me to be your disciple.
Your servant
Madana Mohini dd
Srimate devamrta swamin iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinitah
Paratatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te nama
Dear Guru Maharaja
Since my initiation I am feeling closer to Krishna .
Thank you for accepting me as a disciple even when I have a lot of weaknesses.
By your Mercy I got initiated even when I don’t have enough knowledge about Krishna Consciusness that is why the minimum offering I can do for you and Krishna since my initiation is to chant extra rounds daily. Minimum of 20 rounds and more when possible.
Thank you again for your shelter and help me to grow in my spiritual path is a real honour for me to be your disciple.
Your servant
Madana Mohini dd
Madhava Mohini devi dasi
Please accept my humble obesainces at dust of your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
You possess innumerable transcendental qualities, of which your personal care and attention for all your disciples is extraordinary something that I have not witnessed before in my life. “A spiritual master is not an enjoyer of facilities offered by his disciples. He is like a parent. Without the attentive service of his parents, a child cannot grow to manhood; similarly, without the care of the spiritual master one cannot rise to the plane of transcendental service.(purport SB 11.17.27)
In one darshan you explained to me the difference between management service and book distribution you said in book distribution you are serving future devotees and in management you are serving present devotees. These words really helped me understand what service means. Now that a little time has passed I am getting some realisation of this. In management service I can see that it is not just about getting the job done although that is one aspect of it. Management means facilitating devotees services. One must have the devotees best interest at heart which can only happen if one is purified. By following your instructions to some degree I can see my heart is changing I feel I care and want to serve and protect the devotees. A pure devotee has the power to change someone’s heart.
I would like to serve the present and future devotees with focus under the guidance of your senior disciples. I have the great fortune of working under the management guidance of great stalwarts like Gopal Guru and Gaura Arati. And expert devotee care gurus like Krsnaloka, Mahavan and Khadiravan. And Sankirtan warrior Dayamaya. It is a big spiritual family you are the father and Srila Prabhupada the grandsire!
“Only out of His immense compassion does the Personality of Godhead reveal Himself as the spiritual master. Therefore in the dealings of an ācārya there are no activities but those of transcendental loving service to the Lord. He is the Supreme Personality of Servitor Godhead. It is worthwhile to take shelter of such a steady devotee, who is called āśraya-vigraha, or the manifestation or form of the Lord of whom one must take shelter” (purport SB 11.17.27).
Your servant
Madhava Mohini devi dasi
You possess innumerable transcendental qualities, of which your personal care and attention for all your disciples is extraordinary something that I have not witnessed before in my life. “A spiritual master is not an enjoyer of facilities offered by his disciples. He is like a parent. Without the attentive service of his parents, a child cannot grow to manhood; similarly, without the care of the spiritual master one cannot rise to the plane of transcendental service.(purport SB 11.17.27)
In one darshan you explained to me the difference between management service and book distribution you said in book distribution you are serving future devotees and in management you are serving present devotees. These words really helped me understand what service means. Now that a little time has passed I am getting some realisation of this. In management service I can see that it is not just about getting the job done although that is one aspect of it. Management means facilitating devotees services. One must have the devotees best interest at heart which can only happen if one is purified. By following your instructions to some degree I can see my heart is changing I feel I care and want to serve and protect the devotees. A pure devotee has the power to change someone’s heart.
I would like to serve the present and future devotees with focus under the guidance of your senior disciples. I have the great fortune of working under the management guidance of great stalwarts like Gopal Guru and Gaura Arati. And expert devotee care gurus like Krsnaloka, Mahavan and Khadiravan. And Sankirtan warrior Dayamaya. It is a big spiritual family you are the father and Srila Prabhupada the grandsire!
“Only out of His immense compassion does the Personality of Godhead reveal Himself as the spiritual master. Therefore in the dealings of an ācārya there are no activities but those of transcendental loving service to the Lord. He is the Supreme Personality of Servitor Godhead. It is worthwhile to take shelter of such a steady devotee, who is called āśraya-vigraha, or the manifestation or form of the Lord of whom one must take shelter” (purport SB 11.17.27).
Your servant
Madhava Mohini devi dasi
Madhava Seva Das
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All Glories to Guru and Gauranga. All Glories to your divine services.
On this auspicious day, I wish to pay my sincere tribute to your wonderful preaching, instructions and fine leadership example. Thank you for putting in so much effort into delivering amazing lectures and nourishing your disciples with nectarian Krishna Katha. Thanks for leading this movement in such an exemplary manner and reaching out to many new comers to engage them in Krishna Consciousness. I was amazed with you and your disciples achievements in cultivating the University of Melbourne Bhakti program.
Finally, thank you for being there for me when in need of spiritual guidance. Thanks for your decisive instructions to rectify my faults and encouraging me to engage in solid devotional sadhana.
May the Lord give you the best of health and well-being to continue guiding us for decades to come.
Your Servant,
Madhava Seva Das and family.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All Glories to Guru and Gauranga. All Glories to your divine services.
On this auspicious day, I wish to pay my sincere tribute to your wonderful preaching, instructions and fine leadership example. Thank you for putting in so much effort into delivering amazing lectures and nourishing your disciples with nectarian Krishna Katha. Thanks for leading this movement in such an exemplary manner and reaching out to many new comers to engage them in Krishna Consciousness. I was amazed with you and your disciples achievements in cultivating the University of Melbourne Bhakti program.
Finally, thank you for being there for me when in need of spiritual guidance. Thanks for your decisive instructions to rectify my faults and encouraging me to engage in solid devotional sadhana.
May the Lord give you the best of health and well-being to continue guiding us for decades to come.
Your Servant,
Madhava Seva Das and family.
Madhupuri dd
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Your fearless service to Srila Prabhupada is so inspiring. You are not afraid to be bold, different and creative in your service, or to be the first to do something revolutionary in ISKCON. You also encourage your disciples to be this way, to sacrifice and to do wonderful things. Thanks to your inspiration I have definitely done things that I never thought I could or would do. You have even put yourself in physical danger for the service of Krishna and that shows your complete dedication and selflessness to serving your spiritual master.
Thank you for inspiring me and making me want to be more serious about my Krishna Consciousness.
Your servant,
Madhupuri dd
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Your fearless service to Srila Prabhupada is so inspiring. You are not afraid to be bold, different and creative in your service, or to be the first to do something revolutionary in ISKCON. You also encourage your disciples to be this way, to sacrifice and to do wonderful things. Thanks to your inspiration I have definitely done things that I never thought I could or would do. You have even put yourself in physical danger for the service of Krishna and that shows your complete dedication and selflessness to serving your spiritual master.
Thank you for inspiring me and making me want to be more serious about my Krishna Consciousness.
Your servant,
Madhupuri dd
Madhurananda das
Jai Srila Gurudeva
Nama Om Vishnu Padaya Krishna Presthaya Bhutale
Srimate Devamrita Swamin iti namine
Pracare purva-daksyam ca, Bhaktacara-pravinta
Pararthatapi Karunyam, Yasya sarve ca te namah
Please accept my humble obeisances at your Lotus Feet
All Glories to Srila Prabhuapada
The life of a parent in training continues and with another child, I can see that the luxuries of time and sleep are a thing of the past. Indeed, it is clear to see why the Supreme Lord presents Himself as time in the Bhagavad Gita, being the driving force behind all material creation. Indeed, we are all subject to time
However, you have shown the example of an ideal parent. You have many, many children who all demand your time and attention and somehow, you manage to satisfy and inspire us all. From traveling around the world to sharing the transcendental teachings of Srila Prabhupada, you truly live for your children.
While we struggle to balance our own lives with those we try to serve, you show us how to make service the goal of our life. You have often mentioned how service to the devotees is the secret to spiritual progress yet we forget the devotees in our own home
Dearest Gurudev, as a loving parent dedicate to serving your children, and inspiring the world in Krishna Consciousness, please guide us in the way we look after our own children and dependents
your servant,
Madhurananda das
Nama Om Vishnu Padaya Krishna Presthaya Bhutale
Srimate Devamrita Swamin iti namine
Pracare purva-daksyam ca, Bhaktacara-pravinta
Pararthatapi Karunyam, Yasya sarve ca te namah
Please accept my humble obeisances at your Lotus Feet
All Glories to Srila Prabhuapada
The life of a parent in training continues and with another child, I can see that the luxuries of time and sleep are a thing of the past. Indeed, it is clear to see why the Supreme Lord presents Himself as time in the Bhagavad Gita, being the driving force behind all material creation. Indeed, we are all subject to time
However, you have shown the example of an ideal parent. You have many, many children who all demand your time and attention and somehow, you manage to satisfy and inspire us all. From traveling around the world to sharing the transcendental teachings of Srila Prabhupada, you truly live for your children.
While we struggle to balance our own lives with those we try to serve, you show us how to make service the goal of our life. You have often mentioned how service to the devotees is the secret to spiritual progress yet we forget the devotees in our own home
Dearest Gurudev, as a loving parent dedicate to serving your children, and inspiring the world in Krishna Consciousness, please guide us in the way we look after our own children and dependents
your servant,
Madhurananda das
Madhuryadham devi dasi
Dear Gurumaharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this special occasion, I pray to Lord Jagannath,Baldeva and ,Subdra mai for your good health and long life. I'm so unfortunate that for last few years I'm not able to have your regular darshan. But I feel that your mercy is flowing on this useless soul because of that only I was able to serve Lord Jagannath at our home. It is only because of your blessing I learned to stich Lordship dressings and learned the sacred science of diety worship.
We do daily mangal arti at our home. We regularly attend Friday BG program conducted by HG Kanhai Thakur Pr. Because of your mercy we are so fortunate that Gaurang Pr came to our house for deity welcoming which we initially thought impossible to even dream. I can see that we have no qualifications for any thing and even don't deserve any sadhu sanga. When I hear your roaring voice I feel that my Gurumaharaj is with us.
Our grastha life is going good. Kids are now settled and got into schooling system. We with best of our capacity try to give them exposure to bhakti yoga process.
Please bless my family so that we chant lord holy name.
I seek your constant help and guidance so that we keep on staying on the path of bhakti.
Aspiring to be your servant,
Madhuryadham devi dasi.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this special occasion, I pray to Lord Jagannath,Baldeva and ,Subdra mai for your good health and long life. I'm so unfortunate that for last few years I'm not able to have your regular darshan. But I feel that your mercy is flowing on this useless soul because of that only I was able to serve Lord Jagannath at our home. It is only because of your blessing I learned to stich Lordship dressings and learned the sacred science of diety worship.
We do daily mangal arti at our home. We regularly attend Friday BG program conducted by HG Kanhai Thakur Pr. Because of your mercy we are so fortunate that Gaurang Pr came to our house for deity welcoming which we initially thought impossible to even dream. I can see that we have no qualifications for any thing and even don't deserve any sadhu sanga. When I hear your roaring voice I feel that my Gurumaharaj is with us.
Our grastha life is going good. Kids are now settled and got into schooling system. We with best of our capacity try to give them exposure to bhakti yoga process.
Please bless my family so that we chant lord holy name.
I seek your constant help and guidance so that we keep on staying on the path of bhakti.
Aspiring to be your servant,
Madhuryadham devi dasi.
Madhuryamrita devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!!!
I have been meditating on the glorious position of the spiritual master. The genuine guru is one who delivers Krishna’s message intact. It seems at face value to be a simple task, just delivering a message. However, as you have previously explained, in order to perform that service consistently throughout the years, the guru has to live by Krishna’s message. As Sanatana Goswami describes in Caitanya Caritamrita Antya Lila 4.103:
’ācāra’, ‘pracāra’,—nāmera karaha ‘dui’ kārya
tumi—sarva-guru, tumi jagatera ārya
“You simultaneously perform both duties in relation to the holy name by your personal behavior and by your preaching. Therefore you are the spiritual master of the entire world, for you are the most advanced devotee in the world.”
It is not an easy task, and I am very inspired by your example of perfect acara and pracara.
Your exemplary acara, or behavior, manifests your many transcendental qualities which shine and reveal your jewel-like purity. As Krishna describes to Arjuna in the twelfth chapter of Bhagavad Gita a list of characteristics of one who is dear to Him, it seems to be an accurate portrayal of your character: not envious, kind friend to all living entities, free from false ego, tolerant, self-controlled, pure, expert, equipoised in honor and dishonor, who doesn’t care for any residence, fixed in knowledge, engaged in devotional service, and who makes Krishna the supreme goal. Although my vision is very limited, Krishna has kindly allowed me to find these and many more qualities in you.
I truly appreciate your resolute dedication to your spiritual master’s instruction, how it is your life and soul. I desire to develop such high caliber of dedication to your instructions.
One instruction I have been focusing on this year is to glorify devotees and acknowledge their sacrifice in their loving service. You have quoted Srila Prabhupada mentioning that even though his disciples are not perfect, the important thing is that they are trying to be perfect, and that is especially laudable in Kali Yuga. It is a wonderful endeavor to intentionally look for the nectar like bees and not degrade into becoming like the flies that go for the sores.
The mentality that helps me in this endeavor is trying to be everyone’s well-wisher, treating them with care and respect, in my mind, words, and actions and knowing that they are all Krishna’s dear parts and parcels. This is one quality that I especially admire about you. How you want everyone to grow and advance in their spiritual life. For example, you dedicate a great amount of time in personally instructing your disciples, showing your affection as a spiritual father. I am very grateful for all the energy and love you have put in helping me advance in my Krishna consciousness.
In one of your visits to Gita Nagari earlier this year, you even encouraged us to meditate on the service attitude of Krishna’s devotees, their determination and sincerity. There are so many sadhus here and their specific qualities are beautifully manifested in their devotional service. The nonstop service machine Dhruva Maharaja, always ready for any mission for Krishna no matter how big or small. Parijata Mataji is constantly looking after the resident devotees and the guests, organizing all the retreats and is so dedicated to Sri Sri Radha Damodar. The Yatras are our dear elders, bringing us closer together with the morning check ins and weekly devotee care sessions. Bali Maharaja and Mother Jagannath steady in their lifelong service to their dear guru maharaja. Krishna Prasad’s amazing attraction to chanting Krishna's holy name, Radha Prasad’s brahminical and Vaishnavi qualities in Deity worship. Kesi Mardana Prabhu’s full dedication and juggle of several hats from administrator to bee keeper to ox trainer to pujari to Tulsi devi care giver to Damodar's burfi maker to devotee driver. Amogha Pandit in his reflective and deep realizations when giving Srimad Bhagavatam class. Yasodeva and Anandini Lalita in their hard work caring for Damodar’s cows. Kalif in his kindness and eagerness to serve, and Jayadeva Kavi in his responsible and cooperative attitude and Krishna conscious vision.
I have also been trying to develop more humility, constantly reminding myself of my constitutional position as Krishna’s servant, and hoping that this makes my heart more fertile for your guidance. Reading and discussing with my husband the pastime of Vallabha Bhatta’s chastisement in Caitanya Caritamrita has been an incredible eye-opener and I do hope you will be merciful towards me and share what I need to work on without considering how my false ego will take it. I understand the urgency and necessity to mature in Krishna Consciousness if I want to achieve the ultimate goal of love of Godhead, which I most certainly do. I take solace in this verse (CC Antya 7.140):
jagatera ‘hita’ ha-uka—ei prabhura mana
daṇḍa kari’ kare tāra hṛdaya śodhana
Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu is always eager to see everyone in the material world happy. Therefore sometimes He chastises someone just to purify his heart.
As Prithu Maharaja addressed the four Kumaras when he received them (Srimad Bhagavatam 4.22.16):
vyaktam ātmavatām ātmā
bhagavān ātma-bhāvanaḥ
svānām anugrahāyemāṁ
siddha-rūpī caraty ajaḥ
The Supreme Personality of Godhead is always anxious to elevate the living entities, who are His parts and parcels, and for their special benefit, the Lord travels all over the world in the form of self-realized persons like you.
I marvel at how Lord Caitanya is empowering you to elevate so many conditioned souls like myself. Where would I be if it weren’t for your mercy? I identify with Prahlad Maharaja’s faithful feelings of gratitude to his spiritual master (SB 7.9.28):
evaṁ janaṁ nipatitaṁ prabhavāhi-kūpe
kāmābhikāmam anu yaḥ prapatan prasaṅgāt
kṛtvātmasāt surarṣiṇā bhagavan gṛhītaḥ
so 'haṁ kathaṁ nu visṛje tava bhṛtya-sevām
My dear Lord, O Supreme Personality of Godhead, because of my association with material desires, one after another, I was gradually falling into a blind well full of snakes, following the general populace. But Your servant Nārada Muni kindly accepted me as his disciple and instructed me how to achieve this transcendental position. Therefore, my first duty is to serve him. How could I leave his service?
My decision to come to America for two years is an offering of loving service to you. It has been hard, I even had to reconfirm my commitment, because unfortunately I still have selfishness to purify into selflessness. But I am thankful for the opportunity to show a token of reciprocation for everything that you have done for me.
And last but not least, your encouragement on developing steadiness is also in the forefront of my consciousness, and I have taken to heart your words of inspiration for attending Mangala Arati in the mornings. Hopefully with your mercy and Krishna’s blessings, I can become a reliable servant that can please you now and forever.
I look forward to receiving more instructions from you.
Your servant,
Madhuryamrita devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances to you who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!!!
I have been meditating on the glorious position of the spiritual master. The genuine guru is one who delivers Krishna’s message intact. It seems at face value to be a simple task, just delivering a message. However, as you have previously explained, in order to perform that service consistently throughout the years, the guru has to live by Krishna’s message. As Sanatana Goswami describes in Caitanya Caritamrita Antya Lila 4.103:
’ācāra’, ‘pracāra’,—nāmera karaha ‘dui’ kārya
tumi—sarva-guru, tumi jagatera ārya
“You simultaneously perform both duties in relation to the holy name by your personal behavior and by your preaching. Therefore you are the spiritual master of the entire world, for you are the most advanced devotee in the world.”
It is not an easy task, and I am very inspired by your example of perfect acara and pracara.
Your exemplary acara, or behavior, manifests your many transcendental qualities which shine and reveal your jewel-like purity. As Krishna describes to Arjuna in the twelfth chapter of Bhagavad Gita a list of characteristics of one who is dear to Him, it seems to be an accurate portrayal of your character: not envious, kind friend to all living entities, free from false ego, tolerant, self-controlled, pure, expert, equipoised in honor and dishonor, who doesn’t care for any residence, fixed in knowledge, engaged in devotional service, and who makes Krishna the supreme goal. Although my vision is very limited, Krishna has kindly allowed me to find these and many more qualities in you.
I truly appreciate your resolute dedication to your spiritual master’s instruction, how it is your life and soul. I desire to develop such high caliber of dedication to your instructions.
One instruction I have been focusing on this year is to glorify devotees and acknowledge their sacrifice in their loving service. You have quoted Srila Prabhupada mentioning that even though his disciples are not perfect, the important thing is that they are trying to be perfect, and that is especially laudable in Kali Yuga. It is a wonderful endeavor to intentionally look for the nectar like bees and not degrade into becoming like the flies that go for the sores.
The mentality that helps me in this endeavor is trying to be everyone’s well-wisher, treating them with care and respect, in my mind, words, and actions and knowing that they are all Krishna’s dear parts and parcels. This is one quality that I especially admire about you. How you want everyone to grow and advance in their spiritual life. For example, you dedicate a great amount of time in personally instructing your disciples, showing your affection as a spiritual father. I am very grateful for all the energy and love you have put in helping me advance in my Krishna consciousness.
In one of your visits to Gita Nagari earlier this year, you even encouraged us to meditate on the service attitude of Krishna’s devotees, their determination and sincerity. There are so many sadhus here and their specific qualities are beautifully manifested in their devotional service. The nonstop service machine Dhruva Maharaja, always ready for any mission for Krishna no matter how big or small. Parijata Mataji is constantly looking after the resident devotees and the guests, organizing all the retreats and is so dedicated to Sri Sri Radha Damodar. The Yatras are our dear elders, bringing us closer together with the morning check ins and weekly devotee care sessions. Bali Maharaja and Mother Jagannath steady in their lifelong service to their dear guru maharaja. Krishna Prasad’s amazing attraction to chanting Krishna's holy name, Radha Prasad’s brahminical and Vaishnavi qualities in Deity worship. Kesi Mardana Prabhu’s full dedication and juggle of several hats from administrator to bee keeper to ox trainer to pujari to Tulsi devi care giver to Damodar's burfi maker to devotee driver. Amogha Pandit in his reflective and deep realizations when giving Srimad Bhagavatam class. Yasodeva and Anandini Lalita in their hard work caring for Damodar’s cows. Kalif in his kindness and eagerness to serve, and Jayadeva Kavi in his responsible and cooperative attitude and Krishna conscious vision.
I have also been trying to develop more humility, constantly reminding myself of my constitutional position as Krishna’s servant, and hoping that this makes my heart more fertile for your guidance. Reading and discussing with my husband the pastime of Vallabha Bhatta’s chastisement in Caitanya Caritamrita has been an incredible eye-opener and I do hope you will be merciful towards me and share what I need to work on without considering how my false ego will take it. I understand the urgency and necessity to mature in Krishna Consciousness if I want to achieve the ultimate goal of love of Godhead, which I most certainly do. I take solace in this verse (CC Antya 7.140):
jagatera ‘hita’ ha-uka—ei prabhura mana
daṇḍa kari’ kare tāra hṛdaya śodhana
Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu is always eager to see everyone in the material world happy. Therefore sometimes He chastises someone just to purify his heart.
As Prithu Maharaja addressed the four Kumaras when he received them (Srimad Bhagavatam 4.22.16):
vyaktam ātmavatām ātmā
bhagavān ātma-bhāvanaḥ
svānām anugrahāyemāṁ
siddha-rūpī caraty ajaḥ
The Supreme Personality of Godhead is always anxious to elevate the living entities, who are His parts and parcels, and for their special benefit, the Lord travels all over the world in the form of self-realized persons like you.
I marvel at how Lord Caitanya is empowering you to elevate so many conditioned souls like myself. Where would I be if it weren’t for your mercy? I identify with Prahlad Maharaja’s faithful feelings of gratitude to his spiritual master (SB 7.9.28):
evaṁ janaṁ nipatitaṁ prabhavāhi-kūpe
kāmābhikāmam anu yaḥ prapatan prasaṅgāt
kṛtvātmasāt surarṣiṇā bhagavan gṛhītaḥ
so 'haṁ kathaṁ nu visṛje tava bhṛtya-sevām
My dear Lord, O Supreme Personality of Godhead, because of my association with material desires, one after another, I was gradually falling into a blind well full of snakes, following the general populace. But Your servant Nārada Muni kindly accepted me as his disciple and instructed me how to achieve this transcendental position. Therefore, my first duty is to serve him. How could I leave his service?
My decision to come to America for two years is an offering of loving service to you. It has been hard, I even had to reconfirm my commitment, because unfortunately I still have selfishness to purify into selflessness. But I am thankful for the opportunity to show a token of reciprocation for everything that you have done for me.
And last but not least, your encouragement on developing steadiness is also in the forefront of my consciousness, and I have taken to heart your words of inspiration for attending Mangala Arati in the mornings. Hopefully with your mercy and Krishna’s blessings, I can become a reliable servant that can please you now and forever.
I look forward to receiving more instructions from you.
Your servant,
Madhuryamrita devi dasi
Maha Hari das
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances to your lotus feet!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you in this most auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja!
Trying to survive the twists and turns of the material world while serving Srila Prabhupada’s mission, has been really sad for me and my family this year.
By your mercy and the grace of the vaisnavas, I am still engaged in service to the vaisnavas, Srila Prabhupada and Sri Krishna.
I remember once you told me on one of my first interviews with you: ¨You are looking for a family? ¨, I said yes! And after few years, Krishna gave me my spiritual father (you), my wife, my son, and many spiritual uncles, cousins, brothers and sisters, that will encourage me to serve and please Srila Prabhupada and the vaisnavas. There is nothing like the shelter of vaisnava family.
I am forever grateful that you gave me your shelter and continuous support to live and serve with devotees.
I humbly pray I can find some peace in the middle of the pain of losing my best friend, my wife, and get your mercy and blessings to have the strength to push and expand the movement for years to come.
Happy vyasa puja day gurudeva!
Your son servant
Maha Hari das
Please accept my humble obeisances to your lotus feet!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
All glories to you in this most auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja!
Trying to survive the twists and turns of the material world while serving Srila Prabhupada’s mission, has been really sad for me and my family this year.
By your mercy and the grace of the vaisnavas, I am still engaged in service to the vaisnavas, Srila Prabhupada and Sri Krishna.
I remember once you told me on one of my first interviews with you: ¨You are looking for a family? ¨, I said yes! And after few years, Krishna gave me my spiritual father (you), my wife, my son, and many spiritual uncles, cousins, brothers and sisters, that will encourage me to serve and please Srila Prabhupada and the vaisnavas. There is nothing like the shelter of vaisnava family.
I am forever grateful that you gave me your shelter and continuous support to live and serve with devotees.
I humbly pray I can find some peace in the middle of the pain of losing my best friend, my wife, and get your mercy and blessings to have the strength to push and expand the movement for years to come.
Happy vyasa puja day gurudeva!
Your son servant
Maha Hari das
Maha Matsya das
Hare Krishna, dear Guru Maharaj. Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. On this blessed day of Your birth, let me Express my sincere gratitude! Your communication which has received all the students at the Sadhu Sanga festival in Russia, it is the object of my constant thinking. Your key words - "burning desire". "This passion is the key to success in Krishna consciousness" - so said You. Submissive hearing means the desire of the student to apply the acquired knowledge from the Guru in their lives. That is why I take Your words and put them in my heart as the goal and main object of meditation, life after life.
Sincerely Your worthless and stupid servant and disciple of Maha Matsya das.
Sincerely Your worthless and stupid servant and disciple of Maha Matsya das.
Mahabhagavat Das
Dear Srila Devamrita Swami Maharaja,
Hare Krishna!
Please kindly accept my humble obeisances.
All glories unto your divine grace.
This offering is delayed, but if you permit, please allow me to express my appreciation.
Over the years, I have learned many things from you and your disciples. I am grateful for all that you have made available to me.
I gratefully distribute your books, read them, quote you, and take inspiration from your tireless efforts to spread Krishna consciousness so it "sticks" in society.
Especially I am impressed how you have organized your life so that your mind and body are sharp and active, available for service to Srila Prabhupada.
I feel unfortunate that you aren't coming to Toronto and so I don't get a chance to hear from you in person, but I understand that when we develop an audience/event worthy of your personal presence, you may consider coming back.
I beg to remain the servant of your servants,
Mahabhagavat Das, Toronto
Hare Krishna!
Please kindly accept my humble obeisances.
All glories unto your divine grace.
This offering is delayed, but if you permit, please allow me to express my appreciation.
Over the years, I have learned many things from you and your disciples. I am grateful for all that you have made available to me.
I gratefully distribute your books, read them, quote you, and take inspiration from your tireless efforts to spread Krishna consciousness so it "sticks" in society.
Especially I am impressed how you have organized your life so that your mind and body are sharp and active, available for service to Srila Prabhupada.
I feel unfortunate that you aren't coming to Toronto and so I don't get a chance to hear from you in person, but I understand that when we develop an audience/event worthy of your personal presence, you may consider coming back.
I beg to remain the servant of your servants,
Mahabhagavat Das, Toronto
Maharasa Das and leela rasa Devi dasi
Hare krsna gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisance.all glory to srila Prabhupad
I thank you form bottom of my heart for accepting me as your spiritual daughter. you are very kind and affectionate towards me. Whenever we came for Darshans you always asked is my Prabhu taking care of me or not??this was very touching to my heart. In your presence I never felt that I am living so far from my parents.
you gave Darshans so many times in my dreams.when I was confused about taking shelter, I prayed to lord you came in my dream and I was litterly begging for shelter with full tear in my eyes from you. That time I was clear that you are my real father and spiritual master.
Recently I was very frustrated I was doing every thing but I was not getting taste of bhakti and very much worried about my unborn baby'consciousness.then I emailed you . You replied the email with your blessings and instructions which was very helpful for me.
Please gurudev bless me and my family on this occasion so that we may continue to serve you, radha vallbha and devotees, help you and srila Prabhupad in chaitanya mahaprabhu's mission.
Your's insignificant servant
Maharasa Das and leela rasa Devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisance.all glory to srila Prabhupad
I thank you form bottom of my heart for accepting me as your spiritual daughter. you are very kind and affectionate towards me. Whenever we came for Darshans you always asked is my Prabhu taking care of me or not??this was very touching to my heart. In your presence I never felt that I am living so far from my parents.
you gave Darshans so many times in my dreams.when I was confused about taking shelter, I prayed to lord you came in my dream and I was litterly begging for shelter with full tear in my eyes from you. That time I was clear that you are my real father and spiritual master.
Recently I was very frustrated I was doing every thing but I was not getting taste of bhakti and very much worried about my unborn baby'consciousness.then I emailed you . You replied the email with your blessings and instructions which was very helpful for me.
Please gurudev bless me and my family on this occasion so that we may continue to serve you, radha vallbha and devotees, help you and srila Prabhupad in chaitanya mahaprabhu's mission.
Your's insignificant servant
Maharasa Das and leela rasa Devi dasi
Mahavan das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and to your merciful lotus feet.
Perhaps in light of a recent increase in marriage mentoring, you have asked Khadiravan and I several times “How long have you been married now? What is your secret?” This has prompted us to deeply consider the profound effect that your guidance has had on our lives. That guidance began for me as a newly married man over 16 years ago, when you gave me the tip-off.
“The secret to spiritual advancement in the age of Kali is to use whatever you have to spread Lord Caitanya's sankirtan mission.”
You paused briefly and then added,
“So if Krishna gives you a nice wife, engage her in Lord Caitanya's sankirtan mission.”
As you like to explain, this is actually how we practically apply Krishna's most confidential instruction in Bhagavad-Gita -
Surrender unto Me - in this age of Kali. Krishna Himself, in His most magnanimous form as Lord Caitanya, explained this in His famous statements to the Kurma Brahmana (CC Madhya 7.128-129):
yāre dekha, tāre kaha ‘kṛṣṇa’-upadeśa
āmāra ājñāya guru hañā tāra’ ei deśa
kabhu nā bādhibe tomāra viṣaya-taraṅga
punarapi ei ṭhāñi pābe mora saṅga
“Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa as they are given in the Bhagavad-gītā and Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. In this way become a spiritual master and try to liberate everyone in this land.”
“If you follow this instruction, your materialistic life at home will not obstruct your spiritual advancement. Indeed, if you follow these regulative principles, we will again meet here, or, rather, you will never lose My company.”
Purport
This is an opportunity for everyone. If one simply follows the instructions of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, under the guidance of His representative, and chants the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra, teaching everyone as far as possible the same principle, the contamination of the materialistic way of life will not even touch him. It does not matter whether one lives in a holy place like Vṛndāvana, Navadvīpa or Jagannātha Purī or in the midst of European cities, where the materialistic way of life is very prominent. If a devotee follows the instructions of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, he lives in the company of the Lord. Wherever he lives, he converts that place into Vṛndāvana and Navadvīpa. This means that materialism cannot touch him. This is the secret of success for one advancing in Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
Paraphrasing Lord Krishna's advice in Bhagavad-Gita (4.34) to the serious spiritual aspirant, you compassionately repeat "Bhakti requires guidance," and on reflection this hits home. I have seen time and time again that those fortunate souls who follow your guidance, regardless of their material situation or level of spiritual commitment, make tangible advancement in bhakti. Certainly, this is because you are a bonafide link in the chain of discipline succession, empowered to reveal the actual path back to Godhead for every jiva you contact.
How grateful we are to have your guidance in our lives. It is only due to this supreme opulence, and the opportunity and facility that you have given us to apply it, that we are enthused to chant the Hare Krishna mantra and inspired to share it with others.
Today I humbly request your blessings so that I always remember this secret of success, and have the intelligence and determination to apply and share it.
Hoping to one day become your trustworthy servant,
Mahavan das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and to your merciful lotus feet.
Perhaps in light of a recent increase in marriage mentoring, you have asked Khadiravan and I several times “How long have you been married now? What is your secret?” This has prompted us to deeply consider the profound effect that your guidance has had on our lives. That guidance began for me as a newly married man over 16 years ago, when you gave me the tip-off.
“The secret to spiritual advancement in the age of Kali is to use whatever you have to spread Lord Caitanya's sankirtan mission.”
You paused briefly and then added,
“So if Krishna gives you a nice wife, engage her in Lord Caitanya's sankirtan mission.”
As you like to explain, this is actually how we practically apply Krishna's most confidential instruction in Bhagavad-Gita -
Surrender unto Me - in this age of Kali. Krishna Himself, in His most magnanimous form as Lord Caitanya, explained this in His famous statements to the Kurma Brahmana (CC Madhya 7.128-129):
yāre dekha, tāre kaha ‘kṛṣṇa’-upadeśa
āmāra ājñāya guru hañā tāra’ ei deśa
kabhu nā bādhibe tomāra viṣaya-taraṅga
punarapi ei ṭhāñi pābe mora saṅga
“Instruct everyone to follow the orders of Lord Śrī Kṛṣṇa as they are given in the Bhagavad-gītā and Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. In this way become a spiritual master and try to liberate everyone in this land.”
“If you follow this instruction, your materialistic life at home will not obstruct your spiritual advancement. Indeed, if you follow these regulative principles, we will again meet here, or, rather, you will never lose My company.”
Purport
This is an opportunity for everyone. If one simply follows the instructions of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, under the guidance of His representative, and chants the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra, teaching everyone as far as possible the same principle, the contamination of the materialistic way of life will not even touch him. It does not matter whether one lives in a holy place like Vṛndāvana, Navadvīpa or Jagannātha Purī or in the midst of European cities, where the materialistic way of life is very prominent. If a devotee follows the instructions of Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu, he lives in the company of the Lord. Wherever he lives, he converts that place into Vṛndāvana and Navadvīpa. This means that materialism cannot touch him. This is the secret of success for one advancing in Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
Paraphrasing Lord Krishna's advice in Bhagavad-Gita (4.34) to the serious spiritual aspirant, you compassionately repeat "Bhakti requires guidance," and on reflection this hits home. I have seen time and time again that those fortunate souls who follow your guidance, regardless of their material situation or level of spiritual commitment, make tangible advancement in bhakti. Certainly, this is because you are a bonafide link in the chain of discipline succession, empowered to reveal the actual path back to Godhead for every jiva you contact.
How grateful we are to have your guidance in our lives. It is only due to this supreme opulence, and the opportunity and facility that you have given us to apply it, that we are enthused to chant the Hare Krishna mantra and inspired to share it with others.
Today I humbly request your blessings so that I always remember this secret of success, and have the intelligence and determination to apply and share it.
Hoping to one day become your trustworthy servant,
Mahavan das
Manada devi dasi
My dear spiritual father,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet on this auspicious day of your appearance.
Organisation, cooperation and good behaviour, you say, are what people will look for when they encounter devotees. Through your specialist instruction and guidance, we can see how all these have been so well developed in many contexts.
You instill in us a selfless attitude – you urge us to think beyond ourselves, simply by engaging us in outreach efforts and service that naturally requires us to put others before ourselves. Anyone can see how effectively all of your outreach centres and other projects are managed and organised. The Loft and Bhakti Lounge, various media projects and publications, book distribution, a system of caring for and cultivating devotees – all should not be taken for granted. Your emphasis on taking guidance, good behaviour and sadhana practice helps devotees to grow and to work together to share Krishna consciousness with others. We see through your example that real love is in giving more than taking.
It isn’t easy to maintain organisation, cooperation and good behaviour. But because of your inspiration, because of your sincere and pure devotion, your selfless sacrifice, we are encouraged to work together. What is the result? What do people think when they see this combination working together effectively? They are impressed and inspired – what are those people going to so much trouble for, they may ask. Why do they care so much? And why are they so satisfied? It must be for a very important reason, a higher goal. I want in!
In this way, more and more people are attracted to Krishna through these outreach projects that make bhakti-yoga accessible to everyone. You know what they really want and need, and you know how to give it to them. We see this in your writings, your personal interactions, and your expert classes and lectures worldwide. It is clear to many who attend your lectures at universities that you do not simply transmit information in a didactic style, nor do you lecture the audience on a religious belief-system; rather, you provide an experience that affects the audience at the core of their heart. The experience is real, eye-opening, a catalyst for shifting one’s mindset.
I’m ever grateful for all the service opportunities you give me. From these, I’ve gained a glimpse of how you strive to make Krishna consciousness more accessible even in the face of difficulties and barriers.
I know that for all my years since I came in touch with Krsna’s devotees, I have been more of a taker than a giver. But by engaging me in service, you’ve turned my life around and given me real substance to my life. Thank you for tolerating my mistakes for which I am sorry for. On this most auspicious day, I pray for your blessings that I may have the strength and faith needed to develop a more selfless mindset and follow your instructions, even amidst great personal difficulties and setbacks. I beg for your prayers that I may be able to develop the qualities I need to reach a high level of cooperation, organization and good behaviour.
Your aspiring servant,
Manada dd
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet on this auspicious day of your appearance.
Organisation, cooperation and good behaviour, you say, are what people will look for when they encounter devotees. Through your specialist instruction and guidance, we can see how all these have been so well developed in many contexts.
You instill in us a selfless attitude – you urge us to think beyond ourselves, simply by engaging us in outreach efforts and service that naturally requires us to put others before ourselves. Anyone can see how effectively all of your outreach centres and other projects are managed and organised. The Loft and Bhakti Lounge, various media projects and publications, book distribution, a system of caring for and cultivating devotees – all should not be taken for granted. Your emphasis on taking guidance, good behaviour and sadhana practice helps devotees to grow and to work together to share Krishna consciousness with others. We see through your example that real love is in giving more than taking.
It isn’t easy to maintain organisation, cooperation and good behaviour. But because of your inspiration, because of your sincere and pure devotion, your selfless sacrifice, we are encouraged to work together. What is the result? What do people think when they see this combination working together effectively? They are impressed and inspired – what are those people going to so much trouble for, they may ask. Why do they care so much? And why are they so satisfied? It must be for a very important reason, a higher goal. I want in!
In this way, more and more people are attracted to Krishna through these outreach projects that make bhakti-yoga accessible to everyone. You know what they really want and need, and you know how to give it to them. We see this in your writings, your personal interactions, and your expert classes and lectures worldwide. It is clear to many who attend your lectures at universities that you do not simply transmit information in a didactic style, nor do you lecture the audience on a religious belief-system; rather, you provide an experience that affects the audience at the core of their heart. The experience is real, eye-opening, a catalyst for shifting one’s mindset.
I’m ever grateful for all the service opportunities you give me. From these, I’ve gained a glimpse of how you strive to make Krishna consciousness more accessible even in the face of difficulties and barriers.
I know that for all my years since I came in touch with Krsna’s devotees, I have been more of a taker than a giver. But by engaging me in service, you’ve turned my life around and given me real substance to my life. Thank you for tolerating my mistakes for which I am sorry for. On this most auspicious day, I pray for your blessings that I may have the strength and faith needed to develop a more selfless mindset and follow your instructions, even amidst great personal difficulties and setbacks. I beg for your prayers that I may be able to develop the qualities I need to reach a high level of cooperation, organization and good behaviour.
Your aspiring servant,
Manada dd
Manasa-ranjani devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance!
Hare Krishna Gurudeva.
All I can do is repeatedly offer my obeisance at your lotus feet, for you have given me everything I need, and far more than I deserve. You continuously support me, care for me, and guide me despite my independent nature and resistance to accepting help of any sort.
Thank you for giving me a taste in serving at The Loft, I relish having an opportunity to serve you through Loft outreach. The Loft provides the unique and cutting edge foundation for those seeking Bhakti, and for those seeking to deepen our Bhakti.
There is full opportunity for new and seasoned devotees to give into devotional service, cooking, kirtan, hosting workshops, giving a presentation - there is simply so much nectar, and I am always amazed at how fresh devotional service is, (sweeping Krishna's floor is ecstatic!), the talented variety of skills the devotees possess and use in Krishna's service, and how we all work together towards the collective mission of pleasing the Spiritual Master, Srila Prabhupada, and Lord Chaitanya.
Due to your mercy, we have been blessed with the most beautiful devotional family, friends from all over the world, and the chance to make our lives perfect in Krishna’s divine service.
Thank you for being such a wonderful example for us all, by serving Srila Prabhupada above and beyond any ordinary expectations, and for always being there for me, as a kind and compassionate father.
My offering to you Gurudeva, is that I pray I may always remain determined to succeed in Krishna’s service and that my activities are always directed to serving you and Srila Prabhupada.
Your servant and daughter with eternal gratitude for everything you have done, and continue to do,
Manasa-ranjani devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance!
Hare Krishna Gurudeva.
All I can do is repeatedly offer my obeisance at your lotus feet, for you have given me everything I need, and far more than I deserve. You continuously support me, care for me, and guide me despite my independent nature and resistance to accepting help of any sort.
Thank you for giving me a taste in serving at The Loft, I relish having an opportunity to serve you through Loft outreach. The Loft provides the unique and cutting edge foundation for those seeking Bhakti, and for those seeking to deepen our Bhakti.
There is full opportunity for new and seasoned devotees to give into devotional service, cooking, kirtan, hosting workshops, giving a presentation - there is simply so much nectar, and I am always amazed at how fresh devotional service is, (sweeping Krishna's floor is ecstatic!), the talented variety of skills the devotees possess and use in Krishna's service, and how we all work together towards the collective mission of pleasing the Spiritual Master, Srila Prabhupada, and Lord Chaitanya.
Due to your mercy, we have been blessed with the most beautiful devotional family, friends from all over the world, and the chance to make our lives perfect in Krishna’s divine service.
Thank you for being such a wonderful example for us all, by serving Srila Prabhupada above and beyond any ordinary expectations, and for always being there for me, as a kind and compassionate father.
My offering to you Gurudeva, is that I pray I may always remain determined to succeed in Krishna’s service and that my activities are always directed to serving you and Srila Prabhupada.
Your servant and daughter with eternal gratitude for everything you have done, and continue to do,
Manasa-ranjani devi dasi
Mangal-arti devi dasi
Dearest Guru Maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisances, All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance!
Dear Guru Maharaj, on your most auspicious appearance day, I remember the wonders of your powerful yet gentle preaching that you have so kindly allowed us to see. I watch with awe how you just sweep every guest you meet towards Krishna. From young students, PhDs, to university management, to crazy neighbours, artists or IVY league engineers - you know exactly what to say to a person to attract their attention to Krishna. Not only do you gently fan the bhakti spark, for the fortunate souls where you detect some genuine sincerity, you sometimes even firmly demand service on their first few meetings with you.
<strong>You mean serious business. </strong>
In Toronto you once asked a guest to daily chant Japa and read the Bhagavad Gita on your first meeting and she ended up becoming a devotee. In Atlanta you encouraged & empowered a first time student guest to setup a student club on campus and the next day he turned up with 8 students willing to do that service - just by your desire. Recently I saw you demand a guest to rid themselves of all intoxicants. Indeed a heavy first task to get - but your compassion touched his heart and triggered a change that gave him the courage to move towards Krishna. While you demand service for Krishna that may seem demanding at that time, I had the great fortune of witnessing how you extended, rope after rope, of assistance in shape of mentors, emails, practical advice and personal encouragement, once the devotees started to make tiny attempts to fulfil your bhakti request. Watching them progress and watching you pull others out time and again - I can remember how Gurudev pulled me out by first asking me to start chanting 1 round and increase to 16. Even though I was incapable in multiple ways, Gurudev gave me something to do and that something has grown to be the greatest wealth of my life, devotional service.
Thank you Guru Maharaj for extending so much care to all of us, showing how to make varieties of different arrangements to accommodate the ever changing propensities of devotees. I was stuck in the corporate world, working - I do not know how you pulled me out of that - It is nothing short of a miracle that here I am sitting in the <i>Titiksva Karunika ashram</i>, remembering Gurudev in the association of your sincere servants. You once told me <i>‘you cant change the amount of material happiness or distress you are due, but spiritual happiness is another thing’. </i>Thank you Guru Maharaj for opening for me the flood gates of spiritual happiness by allowing me to live in Krishna’s ashram - I had never thought it would be possible in this life, I was convinced I had to come back to claim my chance but as always by your grace everything is possible - even the hidden, unspoken desires in the heart are materialized into a reality I had never thought.<i> “Yasya prasada bhagavad prasado easy praised na gate kuto pi”.</i> I was untrained and unqualified for the services then and I am unqualified for the job now and yet you have put so much faith in me. Even though unqualified, by your mercy, I am getting to live the privileged and luxurious life of devotional service. I often don't know what I am doing but I do not want to let you down Guru Maharaj so I humbly pray that your mercy will carry me.
<i>The defining choice - devotional service or sense gratification- is not a dry, heartless battle. As the Supersoul in the heart, Krishna is on your side and as the Spiritual Master, He is there helping from without. " (Bhakti Bhava)</i>
Thank you Guru Maharaj for extending so much care to all of us, showing how to make varieties of different arrangements to accommodate the ever changing propensities of devotees. Even though I have been at the receiving end of so much of this care, and have seen my seniors adjust themselves in so many ways to accommodate my needs, still I haven't learnt how to adjust myself to respond to the changing needs of devotees and devotional service. It is your desire and motto that <i>“We make it easy for people to come to Krishna consciousness, practice Krishna consciousness and distribute Krishna consciousness”. </i>Your desire is clear, yet I remain wrapped in complexities and you have pointed out there are so many complexities but if we are more Krishna conscious, these complexities will go away. Please allow me to become more Krishna conscious. I am very eager for the change so I can serve you and your servants more effectively. I humbly pray that you drag me towards change and empower me to please change like you want so I can do better service for you.
Just like you had once asked me to start chanting Hare Krishna, you have now recently asked me <i>‘somehow or other you can add another module to your style that would be very nice. I think it is possible for you to do…’ </i>I also want to add that other module so I can be of some service to your lotus feet, but I do not know how.
<i>In Bhakti Bhava you write : Although we may fear that it is impossible to train and redirect our emotions Krishna says compassion motivates me within your heart to make incremental transformations for you my sincere steadfast devotee. Bhakti yoga means the process of constantly making the right choice to please the Lord in the heart and then the Lord in the heart Makes the transformations. That is the secret. You hear from books, you hear from the advanced devotees, and then from within your heart arises a desire I want to be like that. Krishna is watching for that sprout. Spiritually it's not a small thing, that flower bud of bhakti desire has immense ramifications.</i>
Even though I see your sincere servants so expertly access this ‘module’, I do not know how to do that but I want to learn so I can serve you properly one day. It was your mercy then and it is your mercy now- my primary shelter and I humbly pray for it so I can serve you properly.
<i>SB 4.28.51, Purport: When one becomes serious to follow the mission of the spiritual master, his resolution is tantamount to seeing the Supreme Personality of Godhead. As explained before, this means meeting the Supreme Personality of Godhead in the instruction of the spiritual master. This is technically called vāṇī-sevā. Śrīla Viśvanātha Cakravartī Ṭhākura states in his Bhagavad-gītā commentary on the verse vyavasāyātmikā buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana (Bg. 2.41) that one should serve the words of the spiritual master. The disciple must stick to whatever the spiritual master orders. Simply by following on that line, one sees the Supreme Personality of Godhead.</i>
I humbly pray to Krishna for the ability to remember your instructions so they remain ever fresh in my consciousness. I hope to learn how to invest my heart and emotions in following your instructions. Please let that lingering monster of recognition & attention not obstruct my way. I really want to sincerely serve you, the way you want, but my bhakti immaturity comes in my way.
<i>mūkaṁ karoti vācālaṁ
paṅguṁ laṅghayate girim
yat-kṛpā tam ahaṁ vande
śrī-guruṁ dīna-tāraṇam
(CC Madhya 17.80)
By the mercy of the guru, even a dumb man can become the greatest orator, and even a lame man can cross mountains.</i>
Dearest Guru Maharaj, with all my limitations, I am your ‘lame and dumb man’ and I humbly sincerely want to follow you and your instructions. Please enable me to render some sincere and pleasing service unto your lotus feet and all your servants.
<i>Visvanath Cakravarti Thakura has stated that the order of the spiritual master is the life and soul of the disciples. As a man cannot separate his life from his body, a disciple cannot separate the order of the spiritual master from his life. SB 3.23.13</i>
My greatest fear is forgetfulness of your instructions. Please let your instructions be ever fresh in my consciousness and please let the whole hearted and sincere execution of those instructions be the only goal of my life.
your humble servant
Mangal-arti devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances, All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance!
Dear Guru Maharaj, on your most auspicious appearance day, I remember the wonders of your powerful yet gentle preaching that you have so kindly allowed us to see. I watch with awe how you just sweep every guest you meet towards Krishna. From young students, PhDs, to university management, to crazy neighbours, artists or IVY league engineers - you know exactly what to say to a person to attract their attention to Krishna. Not only do you gently fan the bhakti spark, for the fortunate souls where you detect some genuine sincerity, you sometimes even firmly demand service on their first few meetings with you.
<strong>You mean serious business. </strong>
In Toronto you once asked a guest to daily chant Japa and read the Bhagavad Gita on your first meeting and she ended up becoming a devotee. In Atlanta you encouraged & empowered a first time student guest to setup a student club on campus and the next day he turned up with 8 students willing to do that service - just by your desire. Recently I saw you demand a guest to rid themselves of all intoxicants. Indeed a heavy first task to get - but your compassion touched his heart and triggered a change that gave him the courage to move towards Krishna. While you demand service for Krishna that may seem demanding at that time, I had the great fortune of witnessing how you extended, rope after rope, of assistance in shape of mentors, emails, practical advice and personal encouragement, once the devotees started to make tiny attempts to fulfil your bhakti request. Watching them progress and watching you pull others out time and again - I can remember how Gurudev pulled me out by first asking me to start chanting 1 round and increase to 16. Even though I was incapable in multiple ways, Gurudev gave me something to do and that something has grown to be the greatest wealth of my life, devotional service.
Thank you Guru Maharaj for extending so much care to all of us, showing how to make varieties of different arrangements to accommodate the ever changing propensities of devotees. I was stuck in the corporate world, working - I do not know how you pulled me out of that - It is nothing short of a miracle that here I am sitting in the <i>Titiksva Karunika ashram</i>, remembering Gurudev in the association of your sincere servants. You once told me <i>‘you cant change the amount of material happiness or distress you are due, but spiritual happiness is another thing’. </i>Thank you Guru Maharaj for opening for me the flood gates of spiritual happiness by allowing me to live in Krishna’s ashram - I had never thought it would be possible in this life, I was convinced I had to come back to claim my chance but as always by your grace everything is possible - even the hidden, unspoken desires in the heart are materialized into a reality I had never thought.<i> “Yasya prasada bhagavad prasado easy praised na gate kuto pi”.</i> I was untrained and unqualified for the services then and I am unqualified for the job now and yet you have put so much faith in me. Even though unqualified, by your mercy, I am getting to live the privileged and luxurious life of devotional service. I often don't know what I am doing but I do not want to let you down Guru Maharaj so I humbly pray that your mercy will carry me.
<i>The defining choice - devotional service or sense gratification- is not a dry, heartless battle. As the Supersoul in the heart, Krishna is on your side and as the Spiritual Master, He is there helping from without. " (Bhakti Bhava)</i>
Thank you Guru Maharaj for extending so much care to all of us, showing how to make varieties of different arrangements to accommodate the ever changing propensities of devotees. Even though I have been at the receiving end of so much of this care, and have seen my seniors adjust themselves in so many ways to accommodate my needs, still I haven't learnt how to adjust myself to respond to the changing needs of devotees and devotional service. It is your desire and motto that <i>“We make it easy for people to come to Krishna consciousness, practice Krishna consciousness and distribute Krishna consciousness”. </i>Your desire is clear, yet I remain wrapped in complexities and you have pointed out there are so many complexities but if we are more Krishna conscious, these complexities will go away. Please allow me to become more Krishna conscious. I am very eager for the change so I can serve you and your servants more effectively. I humbly pray that you drag me towards change and empower me to please change like you want so I can do better service for you.
Just like you had once asked me to start chanting Hare Krishna, you have now recently asked me <i>‘somehow or other you can add another module to your style that would be very nice. I think it is possible for you to do…’ </i>I also want to add that other module so I can be of some service to your lotus feet, but I do not know how.
<i>In Bhakti Bhava you write : Although we may fear that it is impossible to train and redirect our emotions Krishna says compassion motivates me within your heart to make incremental transformations for you my sincere steadfast devotee. Bhakti yoga means the process of constantly making the right choice to please the Lord in the heart and then the Lord in the heart Makes the transformations. That is the secret. You hear from books, you hear from the advanced devotees, and then from within your heart arises a desire I want to be like that. Krishna is watching for that sprout. Spiritually it's not a small thing, that flower bud of bhakti desire has immense ramifications.</i>
Even though I see your sincere servants so expertly access this ‘module’, I do not know how to do that but I want to learn so I can serve you properly one day. It was your mercy then and it is your mercy now- my primary shelter and I humbly pray for it so I can serve you properly.
<i>SB 4.28.51, Purport: When one becomes serious to follow the mission of the spiritual master, his resolution is tantamount to seeing the Supreme Personality of Godhead. As explained before, this means meeting the Supreme Personality of Godhead in the instruction of the spiritual master. This is technically called vāṇī-sevā. Śrīla Viśvanātha Cakravartī Ṭhākura states in his Bhagavad-gītā commentary on the verse vyavasāyātmikā buddhir ekeha kuru-nandana (Bg. 2.41) that one should serve the words of the spiritual master. The disciple must stick to whatever the spiritual master orders. Simply by following on that line, one sees the Supreme Personality of Godhead.</i>
I humbly pray to Krishna for the ability to remember your instructions so they remain ever fresh in my consciousness. I hope to learn how to invest my heart and emotions in following your instructions. Please let that lingering monster of recognition & attention not obstruct my way. I really want to sincerely serve you, the way you want, but my bhakti immaturity comes in my way.
<i>mūkaṁ karoti vācālaṁ
paṅguṁ laṅghayate girim
yat-kṛpā tam ahaṁ vande
śrī-guruṁ dīna-tāraṇam
(CC Madhya 17.80)
By the mercy of the guru, even a dumb man can become the greatest orator, and even a lame man can cross mountains.</i>
Dearest Guru Maharaj, with all my limitations, I am your ‘lame and dumb man’ and I humbly sincerely want to follow you and your instructions. Please enable me to render some sincere and pleasing service unto your lotus feet and all your servants.
<i>Visvanath Cakravarti Thakura has stated that the order of the spiritual master is the life and soul of the disciples. As a man cannot separate his life from his body, a disciple cannot separate the order of the spiritual master from his life. SB 3.23.13</i>
My greatest fear is forgetfulness of your instructions. Please let your instructions be ever fresh in my consciousness and please let the whole hearted and sincere execution of those instructions be the only goal of my life.
your humble servant
Mangal-arti devi dasi
Mantramálá dd.
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
Another year has passed, another of your visit has taken place to Hungary and another vyasa-puja day of yours is about to shine on us. (I am writing this offering on 13 September.)
Your visit was low key to Hungary this year: despite quite a few days' stay at the Budapest temple, no temple classes were given by you. This was due to the intense discomfort and pain in your gums.
Thank you for letting me to do some service for you. Thank you for turning to me at the time of this health crisis.
After the initial "setting the scene" period things sped up tremendously in our WhatsApp communication due to your quick analysis and decision-making. (I love these abilities of yours.)
This reminds me of another one of Gurudeva's display of efficiency. It was a long time ago but it is still vividly in my memory. (I wish I were as focused and efficient as you, Gurudeva. Even a half, a quarter or a drop of your efficiency would make a massive difference in my life.)
The year is around 2004, give or take a year or two, the time is summer time, the place is Whenuapai, NZ, my rented granny flat. I moved out of this tiny unit with sweeping green surroundings so that you could spend a few days there. Dayavira prabhu was your servant and was staying with you sleeping? on the wooden floor of the kitchen. A week before Bhumna Krishna prabhu had come to install curtains so that you can have a bit of privacy at night by pulling across the curtains to separate the open kitchen from the rest of the place.
I came by. You wanted to check your e-mails but I had no facility for that in the granny flat. (Smart phones were the gadgets of the future.) So I asked the landlord and the landlady and we went over to their spacious house. I thought your checking of the e-mails would take time, but I was happy to be in your company.
You started to work with your laptop on your lap, in their living room. You had a lot of e-mails to check/reply to. But, to my utmost amazement, you were ready in no time. Wow, I thought. How is that possible? No way I could have done that.
I concluded that the Spiritual Master could do anything. O, that reminds me of another story. I might tell it another time.
Back to the present, I would like to wish Gurudeva a fine Vyasa-puja day and no bodily discomfort till I can see you again, so at least for another year, if that is possible at all.
Please bless me with Krishna consciousness so that I could be a more willing servant. A humble servant. A competent servant. A pleasing servant. A SERVANT.
Mantramálá
Budapest, Hungary
Please accept my humble obeisances.
Another year has passed, another of your visit has taken place to Hungary and another vyasa-puja day of yours is about to shine on us. (I am writing this offering on 13 September.)
Your visit was low key to Hungary this year: despite quite a few days' stay at the Budapest temple, no temple classes were given by you. This was due to the intense discomfort and pain in your gums.
Thank you for letting me to do some service for you. Thank you for turning to me at the time of this health crisis.
After the initial "setting the scene" period things sped up tremendously in our WhatsApp communication due to your quick analysis and decision-making. (I love these abilities of yours.)
This reminds me of another one of Gurudeva's display of efficiency. It was a long time ago but it is still vividly in my memory. (I wish I were as focused and efficient as you, Gurudeva. Even a half, a quarter or a drop of your efficiency would make a massive difference in my life.)
The year is around 2004, give or take a year or two, the time is summer time, the place is Whenuapai, NZ, my rented granny flat. I moved out of this tiny unit with sweeping green surroundings so that you could spend a few days there. Dayavira prabhu was your servant and was staying with you sleeping? on the wooden floor of the kitchen. A week before Bhumna Krishna prabhu had come to install curtains so that you can have a bit of privacy at night by pulling across the curtains to separate the open kitchen from the rest of the place.
I came by. You wanted to check your e-mails but I had no facility for that in the granny flat. (Smart phones were the gadgets of the future.) So I asked the landlord and the landlady and we went over to their spacious house. I thought your checking of the e-mails would take time, but I was happy to be in your company.
You started to work with your laptop on your lap, in their living room. You had a lot of e-mails to check/reply to. But, to my utmost amazement, you were ready in no time. Wow, I thought. How is that possible? No way I could have done that.
I concluded that the Spiritual Master could do anything. O, that reminds me of another story. I might tell it another time.
Back to the present, I would like to wish Gurudeva a fine Vyasa-puja day and no bodily discomfort till I can see you again, so at least for another year, if that is possible at all.
Please bless me with Krishna consciousness so that I could be a more willing servant. A humble servant. A competent servant. A pleasing servant. A SERVANT.
Mantramálá
Budapest, Hungary
Mantriraja Dasa
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your Vyasapuja
This year for your appearance I simply want to meditate in gratitude on all that you have done and are still doing for me and countless other conditioned souls like me.
You instructed us in Mayapur never to lose our gratitude. You yourself are such a wonderful example of divine gratitude. The surrender you manifest to Srila Prabhupada's mission one facet of this gratitude; your ability to personally care for your innumerable disciples and well-wishers is another.
You embody Krishna's compassionate words in Bhagavad-gita: 'ma sucah'. By following your instructions in serving Srila Prabhupada's mission to make the whole world Krishna conscious, we are saved.
Saved from the increasingly hellish reality of Kali Yuga in our so-called 'advanced' modern society with its rampant violence, intoxication, exploitation and madness.
I have been told that in the Vedic tradition, one is generally most generous on one's appearance day. Therefore on this day I want to beg from you the empowerment and mercy to become a transparent via medium for your devotional service.
You saved me, now please help me to always express my gratitude by assisting you in saving as many others as possible.
Thank you.
Aspiring to always remain your insignificant servant forever,
Mantriraja dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your Vyasapuja
This year for your appearance I simply want to meditate in gratitude on all that you have done and are still doing for me and countless other conditioned souls like me.
You instructed us in Mayapur never to lose our gratitude. You yourself are such a wonderful example of divine gratitude. The surrender you manifest to Srila Prabhupada's mission one facet of this gratitude; your ability to personally care for your innumerable disciples and well-wishers is another.
You embody Krishna's compassionate words in Bhagavad-gita: 'ma sucah'. By following your instructions in serving Srila Prabhupada's mission to make the whole world Krishna conscious, we are saved.
Saved from the increasingly hellish reality of Kali Yuga in our so-called 'advanced' modern society with its rampant violence, intoxication, exploitation and madness.
I have been told that in the Vedic tradition, one is generally most generous on one's appearance day. Therefore on this day I want to beg from you the empowerment and mercy to become a transparent via medium for your devotional service.
You saved me, now please help me to always express my gratitude by assisting you in saving as many others as possible.
Thank you.
Aspiring to always remain your insignificant servant forever,
Mantriraja dasa
Michael James Antunovich
Hare Krishna Gurudav,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
Thank-you very much for the preaching opportunity here in Philadelphia;
I’m hopeful that my small contributions to Mangal Aarti’s team will be received well and that you will be pleased.
I can see that as a Spiritual Master / Father, you sacrifice everything unconditionally for our spiritual welfare.
"Whatever action a great man performs, common men follow. And whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues" BG 3.21.
It’s clear to me that this verse exemplifies your character.
Your servant.
Bhakta Michael Antunovich
Please accept my humble obeisances.
Thank-you very much for the preaching opportunity here in Philadelphia;
I’m hopeful that my small contributions to Mangal Aarti’s team will be received well and that you will be pleased.
I can see that as a Spiritual Master / Father, you sacrifice everything unconditionally for our spiritual welfare.
"Whatever action a great man performs, common men follow. And whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues" BG 3.21.
It’s clear to me that this verse exemplifies your character.
Your servant.
Bhakta Michael Antunovich
Muchukunda dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious anniversary of your appearance in this world I'd like to highlight one of your spiritual qualities. You are a revolutionary.
A Revolutionary is a person who advocates revolution which means involving or causing a complete or dramatic change.
The word for complete change is transformation. So I'd like to appreciate you as a stand for transformation.
The bhagavatam is presenting how to change the heart from iron to gold, steel framed to butter, lust filled to love filled, unfulfilled to fully filled, pained to peaceful, (or pained about the right things) dry and bored to immersed in the soothing balm of devotion, parched to pleased, frustrated to exhilarate, harmed to calmed, angry to humble, hating to compassionate, lonely to embraced, messed up to clean, and of course empty to sat upon by The Lord.
You are so kind that after having transformed your heart in the above mentioned ways you are standing for the rest of the world doing so also. How you're doing this creating essentially places of worship for non devotees. You call them Bhakti Lounge and base them off what Prabhupada himself did in the Bowery. Following his mood of conviviality you make it easy from the start for people to systematically turn 180 degrees in life and see The Lord waiting for them. Who but you is as effective in transcendental management?
You're creating a situation in which even those who think they're averse to Krsna start chanting. You're like a transcendental trickster causing persons to get interested in the jewels of bhakti which are otherwise passionately considered dated and uncool.
You gracefully and seamlessly through compassionate softness or firmness interrupt people's conceptions of spirituality and Krsna Consciousness and cause people to revolutionise their life by transforming their hearts.
One person at a time you are creating the social change other people are perplexed in their attempts to create. This is due to your complete knowledge of reality and your being empowered by The Lord. Others being in the dark well of bodily identification are disconnected from reality due to trying to cheat God and be happy as homeless beggars in Devi dham.
You are making real headway in expanding the ocean of transcendental bliss after the ways of the six goswamis.
What you present in your books and lectures is huge. In Hiding in Unnatural happiness you present the reader with a possibility that if realised would actually transform life as we know it!
You propose to the reader an economy based on giving. Who has the audacity to make such a proposal? Most people would likely see this as a beautiful idea but in their apparent realism would pass it off as idealism or sentiment. Why they shouldn't is that you're actually creating it.
You're living it. You yourself live off giving. You're a selfless servant travelling with no agenda other than giving that which will make a real difference in the quality of life for anyone who's ready to hear. And by making full fledged practicing devotees by the dozens every year you are creating a society in which giving is the norm.
Even in the devotee community you're a revolutionary.
Your emphasis on developing our emotions in service to Krsna is certainly a game changer for any practitioner struggling on the path of devotion.
Emotions you point out aren't the monopoly of a materialistic self centered life. Through the examples of devotees in different relationships with the lord you show the emotional dynamics of a devotee. What this makes available is the reassurance needed by most to surrender whole heartedly in bhakti. This alone will satisfy us as conformed in Srimad Bhagavatam: Yayatma suprasidati and by Lord Chaitanya "it is the nectar for which we are all anxious!
Thank you for what you're doing to make Bhakti easy!
Your struggling disciple,
Muchukunda dasa
On this auspicious anniversary of your appearance in this world I'd like to highlight one of your spiritual qualities. You are a revolutionary.
A Revolutionary is a person who advocates revolution which means involving or causing a complete or dramatic change.
The word for complete change is transformation. So I'd like to appreciate you as a stand for transformation.
The bhagavatam is presenting how to change the heart from iron to gold, steel framed to butter, lust filled to love filled, unfulfilled to fully filled, pained to peaceful, (or pained about the right things) dry and bored to immersed in the soothing balm of devotion, parched to pleased, frustrated to exhilarate, harmed to calmed, angry to humble, hating to compassionate, lonely to embraced, messed up to clean, and of course empty to sat upon by The Lord.
You are so kind that after having transformed your heart in the above mentioned ways you are standing for the rest of the world doing so also. How you're doing this creating essentially places of worship for non devotees. You call them Bhakti Lounge and base them off what Prabhupada himself did in the Bowery. Following his mood of conviviality you make it easy from the start for people to systematically turn 180 degrees in life and see The Lord waiting for them. Who but you is as effective in transcendental management?
You're creating a situation in which even those who think they're averse to Krsna start chanting. You're like a transcendental trickster causing persons to get interested in the jewels of bhakti which are otherwise passionately considered dated and uncool.
You gracefully and seamlessly through compassionate softness or firmness interrupt people's conceptions of spirituality and Krsna Consciousness and cause people to revolutionise their life by transforming their hearts.
One person at a time you are creating the social change other people are perplexed in their attempts to create. This is due to your complete knowledge of reality and your being empowered by The Lord. Others being in the dark well of bodily identification are disconnected from reality due to trying to cheat God and be happy as homeless beggars in Devi dham.
You are making real headway in expanding the ocean of transcendental bliss after the ways of the six goswamis.
What you present in your books and lectures is huge. In Hiding in Unnatural happiness you present the reader with a possibility that if realised would actually transform life as we know it!
You propose to the reader an economy based on giving. Who has the audacity to make such a proposal? Most people would likely see this as a beautiful idea but in their apparent realism would pass it off as idealism or sentiment. Why they shouldn't is that you're actually creating it.
You're living it. You yourself live off giving. You're a selfless servant travelling with no agenda other than giving that which will make a real difference in the quality of life for anyone who's ready to hear. And by making full fledged practicing devotees by the dozens every year you are creating a society in which giving is the norm.
Even in the devotee community you're a revolutionary.
Your emphasis on developing our emotions in service to Krsna is certainly a game changer for any practitioner struggling on the path of devotion.
Emotions you point out aren't the monopoly of a materialistic self centered life. Through the examples of devotees in different relationships with the lord you show the emotional dynamics of a devotee. What this makes available is the reassurance needed by most to surrender whole heartedly in bhakti. This alone will satisfy us as conformed in Srimad Bhagavatam: Yayatma suprasidati and by Lord Chaitanya "it is the nectar for which we are all anxious!
Thank you for what you're doing to make Bhakti easy!
Your struggling disciple,
Muchukunda dasa
Mukharavinda das
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Happy vyasa-puja Gurudev
The spiritual master is manifestation of Krishna's mercy . This the sastric conclusion. By Krsna's mercy we have you our beloved spiritual masterL
It is said that said that we should have full faith in the transcendental knowledge that is revealed through Gurudev. It is necessary to wholeheartedly follow with full faith the teachings, orders , service and responsibility which comes from guru.
I pray i can be able to follow your instruction, teachings and make them my life and soul. Thank you for showering me with your mercy Gurudev.
Your servant
Mukharavinda das
Please accept my humble obeisances, all glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Happy vyasa-puja Gurudev
The spiritual master is manifestation of Krishna's mercy . This the sastric conclusion. By Krsna's mercy we have you our beloved spiritual masterL
It is said that said that we should have full faith in the transcendental knowledge that is revealed through Gurudev. It is necessary to wholeheartedly follow with full faith the teachings, orders , service and responsibility which comes from guru.
I pray i can be able to follow your instruction, teachings and make them my life and soul. Thank you for showering me with your mercy Gurudev.
Your servant
Mukharavinda das
Mula Karana dd
Nama om visnu-padaya krsna-presthaya bhu-tale
srimate Devamrita-svamin iti namine
Pracare purva-daksyam ca
Bhaktacara-pravinata
Pararthatapi karunyam
Yasya sarve cate namah
Dear dear Gurudev,
Please accept my very most humble obeisances! All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!
I read in SB 3.21.17 that “a raging fire can be extinguished only when there is a constant downpour of water from a cloud.” The raging fire is compared to the material existence, the cloud to the mercy of the spiritual master, and the water from the cloud to Krsna Consciousness.
Gurudev, you are that wonderful cloud that brings forwards the shower of rains of mercy of Krsna into our lives!
Thank you Gurudev so so much for your kiindness! Because of you, Krsna says “Yes” and enters into my life!
Cakhu dan dilo yei, janme janme prabju sei,
divya jnana hrde prokasito
prema bhakti yaha hoite, avidya vinasa yate,
vede gaya yahara carito
My dear gurudev, thank you so so much for opening my eyes that are so much full of illusions and material desires and fill my heart with
transcendental insights and knowledge. I read in SB3.25.8 that “ paragam refers to one who can take the disciple to the other side. This side is conditioned life; the other side is the life of freedom. “ Gurudev, you are surely the one who can take us all from the side of conditioned life to the side of freedom!
Thank you for saving me from the dark pit of ignorance and giving me the knowledge of God, Krsna!
One may have eyes, but without the light of the sun, one's eyes are useless!
Gurudev, you are just like the light of the sun. Without you, what am I really seeing with my eyes?
Thank you for your mercy and shining your most divine grace of light, showing me how to really see, and guiding me out of the path of ignorance!
I have forgotten about Krsna for so so so so long, thank you so much for helping me remember Him!
In a night devotee program in GN in 2015, you said that “ all the activities in bhakti yoga and devotional service are all about love..by chanting hare krishna and doing devotional service, we are engaging in the activities of love.”
Gurudev, all my life for a very very long time since time immemorial, I have been eating, sleeping, mating, and defending in the bodily platform of existence.
Because of your grace, I am now learning otherwise. I am learning love beyond body and mind. I am learning how to really love and love every living entities by loving Krsna.
How incredible and majestic is this? This is only possible because of your grace! Thank you so much , Gurudev!
Prabhupada says in BG 6.32 that “One who is Krsna conscious is a perfect yogi...because one in Krsna consciousness is happy, he tries to distribute the knowledge of Krsna everywhere. Since the perfect yogi tries to broadcast the importance of becoming Krsna conscious, he is the best philanthropist in the world, and he is the dearest servitor of the Lord.”
My dear gurudev, you emanates so much love, compassion, and humility!
You have done and am doing so so much for the welfare of all living entities without any personal motives and benefits!
Prabhupada says in BG 18.69 ~ Na ca tasman manusyesu kascin me priya-krttamah
“There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he, nor will there ever be one more dear. “ You are indeed so so dear to Krsna because you are always trying to bring all the fallen souls closer and closer to Him!
You are the friend of everyone, and you are the best of the best Yogi!
And because of your mercy, I am a part of Sri Krisna Caitanya's sankirtan mission! I am helping broadcast the Holy name to all living entities! I am helping them remember and love Krsna!
Thank you for giving me this precious opportunity every second to help spread the Holy name.
I was with Sachidevi a few months ago doing books at china town. It was challenging, but so so satisfying! The other day, a 80 year old chinese lady from China took your book! And Gurudev, me and Gita Govinda did 30 chinese POYs just now at China town! Haribol! All Glories to you Gurudev!
Every soul that we meet, talk to, or take a book has the chance to revive his love for Krsna!
So so so much mercy from Sri Krishna Caitanya flowing through you!
I am literally working for God, and this is the best job ever! Because of your mercy, I am helping spread Krsna's love to people!
You once answered my question by saying “ Krsna consciousness is difficult, material life is impossible!” Yes, very often I find myself very stressed out and distressed about book goals, doing devotional services, and living in the ashram. But oh my Lord, this is the best stress ever! Any distress or difficulties that I may have experienced are the best best experiences because Krsna is in them!
All these are possible only because of you and your uninterrupted and unmotivated devotion in spreading Krishna Consciousness and your outreach program!
Thank you Gurudev!!!
Life is simply wonderful when Krsna is there! And everything is so so so wonderful when devotees are there with me!
Thank you so so very much Gurudev for everything!
I am begging and praying to Krsna to always protect and help you, His dearest servitor and help us all in our efforts to serve you and your Guru Maharaj Srila Prabhupada in Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu's sankirtan movement!
All Glories, all glories, and all glories to you Gurudev!
Sincerely,
Mula Karana DD
Your daughter and aspiring servant of the servant of the servant of Krsna
srimate Devamrita-svamin iti namine
Pracare purva-daksyam ca
Bhaktacara-pravinata
Pararthatapi karunyam
Yasya sarve cate namah
Dear dear Gurudev,
Please accept my very most humble obeisances! All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!
I read in SB 3.21.17 that “a raging fire can be extinguished only when there is a constant downpour of water from a cloud.” The raging fire is compared to the material existence, the cloud to the mercy of the spiritual master, and the water from the cloud to Krsna Consciousness.
Gurudev, you are that wonderful cloud that brings forwards the shower of rains of mercy of Krsna into our lives!
Thank you Gurudev so so much for your kiindness! Because of you, Krsna says “Yes” and enters into my life!
Cakhu dan dilo yei, janme janme prabju sei,
divya jnana hrde prokasito
prema bhakti yaha hoite, avidya vinasa yate,
vede gaya yahara carito
My dear gurudev, thank you so so much for opening my eyes that are so much full of illusions and material desires and fill my heart with
transcendental insights and knowledge. I read in SB3.25.8 that “ paragam refers to one who can take the disciple to the other side. This side is conditioned life; the other side is the life of freedom. “ Gurudev, you are surely the one who can take us all from the side of conditioned life to the side of freedom!
Thank you for saving me from the dark pit of ignorance and giving me the knowledge of God, Krsna!
One may have eyes, but without the light of the sun, one's eyes are useless!
Gurudev, you are just like the light of the sun. Without you, what am I really seeing with my eyes?
Thank you for your mercy and shining your most divine grace of light, showing me how to really see, and guiding me out of the path of ignorance!
I have forgotten about Krsna for so so so so long, thank you so much for helping me remember Him!
In a night devotee program in GN in 2015, you said that “ all the activities in bhakti yoga and devotional service are all about love..by chanting hare krishna and doing devotional service, we are engaging in the activities of love.”
Gurudev, all my life for a very very long time since time immemorial, I have been eating, sleeping, mating, and defending in the bodily platform of existence.
Because of your grace, I am now learning otherwise. I am learning love beyond body and mind. I am learning how to really love and love every living entities by loving Krsna.
How incredible and majestic is this? This is only possible because of your grace! Thank you so much , Gurudev!
Prabhupada says in BG 6.32 that “One who is Krsna conscious is a perfect yogi...because one in Krsna consciousness is happy, he tries to distribute the knowledge of Krsna everywhere. Since the perfect yogi tries to broadcast the importance of becoming Krsna conscious, he is the best philanthropist in the world, and he is the dearest servitor of the Lord.”
My dear gurudev, you emanates so much love, compassion, and humility!
You have done and am doing so so much for the welfare of all living entities without any personal motives and benefits!
Prabhupada says in BG 18.69 ~ Na ca tasman manusyesu kascin me priya-krttamah
“There is no servant in this world more dear to Me than he, nor will there ever be one more dear. “ You are indeed so so dear to Krsna because you are always trying to bring all the fallen souls closer and closer to Him!
You are the friend of everyone, and you are the best of the best Yogi!
And because of your mercy, I am a part of Sri Krisna Caitanya's sankirtan mission! I am helping broadcast the Holy name to all living entities! I am helping them remember and love Krsna!
Thank you for giving me this precious opportunity every second to help spread the Holy name.
I was with Sachidevi a few months ago doing books at china town. It was challenging, but so so satisfying! The other day, a 80 year old chinese lady from China took your book! And Gurudev, me and Gita Govinda did 30 chinese POYs just now at China town! Haribol! All Glories to you Gurudev!
Every soul that we meet, talk to, or take a book has the chance to revive his love for Krsna!
So so so much mercy from Sri Krishna Caitanya flowing through you!
I am literally working for God, and this is the best job ever! Because of your mercy, I am helping spread Krsna's love to people!
You once answered my question by saying “ Krsna consciousness is difficult, material life is impossible!” Yes, very often I find myself very stressed out and distressed about book goals, doing devotional services, and living in the ashram. But oh my Lord, this is the best stress ever! Any distress or difficulties that I may have experienced are the best best experiences because Krsna is in them!
All these are possible only because of you and your uninterrupted and unmotivated devotion in spreading Krishna Consciousness and your outreach program!
Thank you Gurudev!!!
Life is simply wonderful when Krsna is there! And everything is so so so wonderful when devotees are there with me!
Thank you so so very much Gurudev for everything!
I am begging and praying to Krsna to always protect and help you, His dearest servitor and help us all in our efforts to serve you and your Guru Maharaj Srila Prabhupada in Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu's sankirtan movement!
All Glories, all glories, and all glories to you Gurudev!
Sincerely,
Mula Karana DD
Your daughter and aspiring servant of the servant of the servant of Krsna
Muni-cari dasa
Nama om vishnu-padaya
krishna-presthaya bhu tale
srimate devamrita
svamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
and all glories to you on this your vyasa puja celebration!
Another year passes and more so than usual, I have the opportunity to contemplate you and the amazing things you do. Your full speed ahead dedication to your spiritual master and to Lord Caitanyas sankirtana movement. I have no idea what is going on around the world really, in terms of the spreading of Krsna consciousness. However I do know that you are one of the big generals at the front, leading the charge with your other dedicated godbrothers.
I started my Krsna consciousness 21 years ago, getting a book from someone you inspired to be on the street doing sankirtana. And you are still inspiring people, the world over, to give Krsna to others. Don’t be a miser you say, if you have the greatest gift then share it with others.
Thank you for giving me the gift of Krsna in so many ways. Always inspiring me to chant the maha mantra, always inspiring me to tell others about Krsna (you used to call me John the Baptise who was making the sinners repent), always inspiring me to cook nicely for the Lord and of course always inspiring me to honour large amounts of prasadam. In fact you told me once that every meal I have should be a feast and I have tried to follow that instruction earnestly.
You have established such a wonderful system of giving Krsna to the devotees also, not just to new people. That of course is the mentor system. Giving us help and guidance even as our god family grows and spreads around the world. I have to admit something in that regard Guru Maharaja. It is selfish but I guess I am selfish in lots of ways. But what I want to admit is how much I miss the old days. The old days of when the family was really small. We had you and could contact you anytime. I loved writing you and telling you of my humble sankirtana efforts or asking you a question of something I had read. KC seemed so simple and if in doubt you just emailed Guru Maharaja or called Guru Maharaja. That must have been so inconvenient for you but enthusiastic new bhaktas don’t notice these things. Hare Krsna. But we knew in the back of our minds that as things got bigger, as more people came to get your shelter and care, then these special days (or selfish days I guess) would be gone forever.
Thank you for those special memories Guru Maharaja and all the time you gave me way back then. I pray I can reciprocate one day and give Krsna to others like you gave Krsna to me. Without you and all you have given me, who knows where I would be.
Begging to always get your direction and guidance and the ability to serve you
Your insignificant disciple and spiritual son,
Muni-cari DASA.
krishna-presthaya bhu tale
srimate devamrita
svamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
and all glories to you on this your vyasa puja celebration!
Another year passes and more so than usual, I have the opportunity to contemplate you and the amazing things you do. Your full speed ahead dedication to your spiritual master and to Lord Caitanyas sankirtana movement. I have no idea what is going on around the world really, in terms of the spreading of Krsna consciousness. However I do know that you are one of the big generals at the front, leading the charge with your other dedicated godbrothers.
I started my Krsna consciousness 21 years ago, getting a book from someone you inspired to be on the street doing sankirtana. And you are still inspiring people, the world over, to give Krsna to others. Don’t be a miser you say, if you have the greatest gift then share it with others.
Thank you for giving me the gift of Krsna in so many ways. Always inspiring me to chant the maha mantra, always inspiring me to tell others about Krsna (you used to call me John the Baptise who was making the sinners repent), always inspiring me to cook nicely for the Lord and of course always inspiring me to honour large amounts of prasadam. In fact you told me once that every meal I have should be a feast and I have tried to follow that instruction earnestly.
You have established such a wonderful system of giving Krsna to the devotees also, not just to new people. That of course is the mentor system. Giving us help and guidance even as our god family grows and spreads around the world. I have to admit something in that regard Guru Maharaja. It is selfish but I guess I am selfish in lots of ways. But what I want to admit is how much I miss the old days. The old days of when the family was really small. We had you and could contact you anytime. I loved writing you and telling you of my humble sankirtana efforts or asking you a question of something I had read. KC seemed so simple and if in doubt you just emailed Guru Maharaja or called Guru Maharaja. That must have been so inconvenient for you but enthusiastic new bhaktas don’t notice these things. Hare Krsna. But we knew in the back of our minds that as things got bigger, as more people came to get your shelter and care, then these special days (or selfish days I guess) would be gone forever.
Thank you for those special memories Guru Maharaja and all the time you gave me way back then. I pray I can reciprocate one day and give Krsna to others like you gave Krsna to me. Without you and all you have given me, who knows where I would be.
Begging to always get your direction and guidance and the ability to serve you
Your insignificant disciple and spiritual son,
Muni-cari DASA.
Munjaranya devi dasi
Hare Krishna Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your indefatigable efforts to spread the mercy of the parampara around the world.
Gurudeva, your ingenious style of outreach never ceases to amaze me. Your talks at outreach centers, universities, your interactions with potential bhakti candidates, show that you are well aware of the current trends in the kali yuga market. Furthermore, you skilfully, through acquired knowledge and realization, just like an expert surgeon, cut through these illusions, and inspire people to consider the purpose of human life.
You make extra efforts to take out time from your hectic and tiring schedule, for those who are just taking up the bhakti process. You gauge where everyone is at, and like an expert physician, give them the required medicine to progress in bhakti, in the manner of a caring, loving, guiding and encouraging father.
Gurudeva, you expertly train your disciples in continuing your service to Srila Prabhupada. Your sincere and dedicated servants expertly manage centers such as the Loft and Bhakti Lounge. You have trained them to have exemplary behavior and enroll candidates into the bhakti process and fan the bhakti spark through knock out prasadam, transcendental sound vibrations and association. These centers are exemplars of your ingenious style of outreach aimed at the contemporary kali yugaite.
Guru Maharaja, you are a vast cloud of mercy and compassion, and you use your sincere servants as instruments to pass this soothing moonshine mercy to the conditioned souls burning in the fire of lust. It is only because of your mercy, compassion, and ingenious preaching that the opportunity to do some devotional service is available to me. If it wasn’t for outreach centers such as the Loft and Bhakti Lounge, how would I engage my propensities in service? As you well know Gurudeva, without you engaging me here, I would only be a purposeless passion, wrapped in the world of me and mine, busy degrading myself in the abominable kali yuga market.
You have rescued me and shown me the highest goal. How can this nincompoop even hope to achieve that goal? In a lecture, you were explaining the importance of asha-bandha; hope against hope. My only hope is your mercy Gurudeva. My progress in spiritual life is very slow. My heart is plagued with much pride, and the desire for appreciation, honor and recognition. I cannot uproot this epidemic that is polluting my consciousness. Please help me. I pray to you, on this auspicious day of your appearance, like a needy child, begging for your mercy. Please allow me to become suitable to serve you, and to keep your service as the focus of all my energies.
Your aspiring servant,
Munjaranya dd.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your indefatigable efforts to spread the mercy of the parampara around the world.
Gurudeva, your ingenious style of outreach never ceases to amaze me. Your talks at outreach centers, universities, your interactions with potential bhakti candidates, show that you are well aware of the current trends in the kali yuga market. Furthermore, you skilfully, through acquired knowledge and realization, just like an expert surgeon, cut through these illusions, and inspire people to consider the purpose of human life.
You make extra efforts to take out time from your hectic and tiring schedule, for those who are just taking up the bhakti process. You gauge where everyone is at, and like an expert physician, give them the required medicine to progress in bhakti, in the manner of a caring, loving, guiding and encouraging father.
Gurudeva, you expertly train your disciples in continuing your service to Srila Prabhupada. Your sincere and dedicated servants expertly manage centers such as the Loft and Bhakti Lounge. You have trained them to have exemplary behavior and enroll candidates into the bhakti process and fan the bhakti spark through knock out prasadam, transcendental sound vibrations and association. These centers are exemplars of your ingenious style of outreach aimed at the contemporary kali yugaite.
Guru Maharaja, you are a vast cloud of mercy and compassion, and you use your sincere servants as instruments to pass this soothing moonshine mercy to the conditioned souls burning in the fire of lust. It is only because of your mercy, compassion, and ingenious preaching that the opportunity to do some devotional service is available to me. If it wasn’t for outreach centers such as the Loft and Bhakti Lounge, how would I engage my propensities in service? As you well know Gurudeva, without you engaging me here, I would only be a purposeless passion, wrapped in the world of me and mine, busy degrading myself in the abominable kali yuga market.
You have rescued me and shown me the highest goal. How can this nincompoop even hope to achieve that goal? In a lecture, you were explaining the importance of asha-bandha; hope against hope. My only hope is your mercy Gurudeva. My progress in spiritual life is very slow. My heart is plagued with much pride, and the desire for appreciation, honor and recognition. I cannot uproot this epidemic that is polluting my consciousness. Please help me. I pray to you, on this auspicious day of your appearance, like a needy child, begging for your mercy. Please allow me to become suitable to serve you, and to keep your service as the focus of all my energies.
Your aspiring servant,
Munjaranya dd.
Nama Kirtana Das
Dear Guru Maharaj
Please accept my humble obeisance at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious occasion of Vyasa Puja, I pray for your well being and to engage me in your and Krishna's service.
Your Servant,
Nama Kirtana Das
Please accept my humble obeisance at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious occasion of Vyasa Puja, I pray for your well being and to engage me in your and Krishna's service.
Your Servant,
Nama Kirtana Das
Nanda Mandir Dasa
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you.
The purposes stated within ISKCON’s articles of incorporation reveal Srila Prabhupada’s vision. You have embraced His vision wholeheartedly & enthusiastically, therefore you have a very clear and exciting idea of where you are going and what you are trying to accomplish. This clear sightedness allows you to tap into the emotions of devotees to get them to rise to the challenge of spreading Lord Caitanya’s movement far and wide.
You have a very big position in this institution as a GBC, are a Guru to hundreds, BBT trustee, worshipped formally as we are doing today etc etc but despite all the externals you act as a servant leader because you see yourself as servant first. You make sure that devotee’s / the people in general highest priority needs of Krsna consciousness are being served. The test of a good leader is, are those being served growing as persons? I have observed under your guidance people / devotees becoming more Krsna conscious, healthier, wiser, freer, autonomous and most importantly becoming servants themselves trying to benefit the less privileged in Krsna bhakti. Your focus has always been on the growth and wellbeing of devotees and the communities to which they belong. You are willing to share power, helping devotees develop and perform as highly as possible. The community of devotees / projects you have established in New Zealand is testament to this.
You have the courage to take risks in the achievements of your transcendental goals without any assurance of outward success. When Srila Prabhupada was asked why he chose to go to New York instead of London, Prabhupada jokingly said “My god-brothers went to London and failed, so I thought I would go to New York and fail.” Though Prabhupada said this jokingly he was aware he might fail but the bigger failure would have been not to try to fulfil the order of His spiritual master. Similarly, you are not afraid to experiment / fail in your attempts to present / spread Krsna consciousness in different environments because not trying would be an even bigger failure. As time has shown, you have been very successful in your Bhakti endeavors.
We hear and read pride is very dangerous & detrimental to our spiritual advancement but one thing I can take pride in is having you as my spiritual master. I hope and pray that I can be a worthy disciple.
Your servant
Nanda Mandir Dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you.
The purposes stated within ISKCON’s articles of incorporation reveal Srila Prabhupada’s vision. You have embraced His vision wholeheartedly & enthusiastically, therefore you have a very clear and exciting idea of where you are going and what you are trying to accomplish. This clear sightedness allows you to tap into the emotions of devotees to get them to rise to the challenge of spreading Lord Caitanya’s movement far and wide.
You have a very big position in this institution as a GBC, are a Guru to hundreds, BBT trustee, worshipped formally as we are doing today etc etc but despite all the externals you act as a servant leader because you see yourself as servant first. You make sure that devotee’s / the people in general highest priority needs of Krsna consciousness are being served. The test of a good leader is, are those being served growing as persons? I have observed under your guidance people / devotees becoming more Krsna conscious, healthier, wiser, freer, autonomous and most importantly becoming servants themselves trying to benefit the less privileged in Krsna bhakti. Your focus has always been on the growth and wellbeing of devotees and the communities to which they belong. You are willing to share power, helping devotees develop and perform as highly as possible. The community of devotees / projects you have established in New Zealand is testament to this.
You have the courage to take risks in the achievements of your transcendental goals without any assurance of outward success. When Srila Prabhupada was asked why he chose to go to New York instead of London, Prabhupada jokingly said “My god-brothers went to London and failed, so I thought I would go to New York and fail.” Though Prabhupada said this jokingly he was aware he might fail but the bigger failure would have been not to try to fulfil the order of His spiritual master. Similarly, you are not afraid to experiment / fail in your attempts to present / spread Krsna consciousness in different environments because not trying would be an even bigger failure. As time has shown, you have been very successful in your Bhakti endeavors.
We hear and read pride is very dangerous & detrimental to our spiritual advancement but one thing I can take pride in is having you as my spiritual master. I hope and pray that I can be a worthy disciple.
Your servant
Nanda Mandir Dasa
Navadvipa vasi das
Nama Om Vishnu padaya
Kṛṣṇa-presthaya Bhutale
Srimate Devamrta Swami
Iti namine
Pracare purva-daksyam ca
Bhaktacara-pravinata
Pararthatapi karunyam
Yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
All glories to Your Lotus Feet.
All glories to you on this auspicious Vyasa-puja day.
I wish to narrate how my wife transformed from Sirisha to Mayapur Vasi devi dasi. I could recall when I met you for seeking shelter, my main concern was about my wife who was against the idea giving up onion and garlic, she used to say how can we give up onion and garlic? Without it how can we prepare food? we are already vegetarians. I had to explain to her about the impact of onion and garlic, but she said she needed some more time. But after taking shelter I came home and said to my wife that I took shelter now, and I had to give up onion and garlic immediately, hence you can prepare separately for me. But to my surprise she said ‘why separately I will also stop eating onion and garlic from today onwards’. Then I realised that it was just due to your mercy.
My next concern was when she would reach 16 rounds, but due to your mercy she reached 16 rounds in a period of one month, and eventually she got initiated by you on the 20th of September 2017. This is by far the greatest and happiest day in my life as I had fulfilled one of my biggest responsibilities. I got one more important duty that is the two of my son’s initiation, hence on this auspicious day of your vyasapuja I pray to you that both my sons get initiated in the years to come.
Thank you
Your servant:
Navadvipa Vasi and family
Navarasa dasi
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to the holy names!
All glories , All glories to my spiritual master,
My wholehearted wishes on your appearance day. I am not in a closest position to honour your qualities and tolerance towards your disciples.
I can only truly seek out for your blessings so I can continue the journey I have started amidst all the roller coaster rides.
I thank you for being so tolerant towards me and my family and guiding us through your vani and teachings. Please forgive me for my shortcomings time over time.
Seeking for your mercy and blessings,
The most fallen servant,
Navarasa Dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to the holy names!
All glories , All glories to my spiritual master,
My wholehearted wishes on your appearance day. I am not in a closest position to honour your qualities and tolerance towards your disciples.
I can only truly seek out for your blessings so I can continue the journey I have started amidst all the roller coaster rides.
I thank you for being so tolerant towards me and my family and guiding us through your vani and teachings. Please forgive me for my shortcomings time over time.
Seeking for your mercy and blessings,
The most fallen servant,
Navarasa Dasi
Netrananda devi dasi
nama om vishny padaya
krishna-presthaya bhy tale
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
prachare purva dakshyam ca
bhaktachara pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namaha
All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga !
All glories to Srila Prabhupada !
Dear Guru Maharaj !
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of Your lotus feet on this auspicious day of Your Vyasa- Puja !
Pure devotee is the ocean of mercy and compassion to all human beings never mind
who are them, what social position they obtain. Everybody are equal to him as spiritual souls.
Pure devotee is an example of Vaisnava relationships. He teaches us how to co-operate in servise with love and respect to each other.
Pure devotee is "heavy" with transcendental knowledge and he travells all over the world giving this divine knowledge to all conditional soules.
Pure devotee is the example of devotion to his spiritual master Srila Prabhupada. He dedicates his life to Srila Prabhupada's mission : preaching Krishna Consciousness.
Of course we have not any qualification to
describe the qualities of a pure devotee of Krishna but we must follow the authorites.
Srila Visvanatha Chakravarti Thakur says in
Sri Sri Gurvvastaka : " I worship the lotus feet of the Divine Master, who is the ocean of auspicious qualities."
Dear Guru Maharaj ! All this auspicious qualities are revealed in Your pranama-mantra
and I am so happy and grateful to You that You give me Your mercy to chant it trying to be Your servant.
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur says in " Shara
nagati" : " O, Gurudev ! Give me energy so that I can properly give respect and honour to all.
Then I shall be able to happily chant the Holy Name, and my offences will go away."
Dear Gurudev ! Bowing down to Your lotus feet I humbly praying for Your mercy :
please give me forse and intelligence to overcome all obstacles and become Your real servant useful to You in Your servise to
Srila Prabhupada's mission and to lotus feet of Lord Krishna.
Thank You, Dear Guru Maharaj, for Your kindness and care, support and partience, love and compassion which give forse to live all this years.
Please accept my humble obeisances and congratulations.
Your eternal servant
Netrananda devi dasi,
Snt.Petersburg 26th of September,
2017
krishna-presthaya bhy tale
srimate devamrita swamin iti namine
prachare purva dakshyam ca
bhaktachara pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namaha
All glories to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga !
All glories to Srila Prabhupada !
Dear Guru Maharaj !
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of Your lotus feet on this auspicious day of Your Vyasa- Puja !
Pure devotee is the ocean of mercy and compassion to all human beings never mind
who are them, what social position they obtain. Everybody are equal to him as spiritual souls.
Pure devotee is an example of Vaisnava relationships. He teaches us how to co-operate in servise with love and respect to each other.
Pure devotee is "heavy" with transcendental knowledge and he travells all over the world giving this divine knowledge to all conditional soules.
Pure devotee is the example of devotion to his spiritual master Srila Prabhupada. He dedicates his life to Srila Prabhupada's mission : preaching Krishna Consciousness.
Of course we have not any qualification to
describe the qualities of a pure devotee of Krishna but we must follow the authorites.
Srila Visvanatha Chakravarti Thakur says in
Sri Sri Gurvvastaka : " I worship the lotus feet of the Divine Master, who is the ocean of auspicious qualities."
Dear Guru Maharaj ! All this auspicious qualities are revealed in Your pranama-mantra
and I am so happy and grateful to You that You give me Your mercy to chant it trying to be Your servant.
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur says in " Shara
nagati" : " O, Gurudev ! Give me energy so that I can properly give respect and honour to all.
Then I shall be able to happily chant the Holy Name, and my offences will go away."
Dear Gurudev ! Bowing down to Your lotus feet I humbly praying for Your mercy :
please give me forse and intelligence to overcome all obstacles and become Your real servant useful to You in Your servise to
Srila Prabhupada's mission and to lotus feet of Lord Krishna.
Thank You, Dear Guru Maharaj, for Your kindness and care, support and partience, love and compassion which give forse to live all this years.
Please accept my humble obeisances and congratulations.
Your eternal servant
Netrananda devi dasi,
Snt.Petersburg 26th of September,
2017
Nilacala Candra Das
All Glories To Sri Sri Panca Tattva
All Glories To Srila Prabhupada
Hare Krishna Gurudev
I offer my humble obeisance's to your lotus feet. Your graceful appearance on this planet is destined to uplift materially contaminated souls like me and several others. Every word you speak in relation to Krishna Consciousness has the power of purification that cleanses our minds and hearts.
On This special day, I offer my prayers To Sri Sri Panca Tattva at New Navdip Dham Honolulu, for your good health and strength to continue Srila Prabhupada's Legacy.
I offer my Prayers to The Supreme Lord Sri Nrsinga Dev For His Mercy be bestowed upon you always at all times.
Your eternal servant
Nilacala Candra Das
All Glories To Srila Prabhupada
Hare Krishna Gurudev
I offer my humble obeisance's to your lotus feet. Your graceful appearance on this planet is destined to uplift materially contaminated souls like me and several others. Every word you speak in relation to Krishna Consciousness has the power of purification that cleanses our minds and hearts.
On This special day, I offer my prayers To Sri Sri Panca Tattva at New Navdip Dham Honolulu, for your good health and strength to continue Srila Prabhupada's Legacy.
I offer my Prayers to The Supreme Lord Sri Nrsinga Dev For His Mercy be bestowed upon you always at all times.
Your eternal servant
Nilacala Candra Das
Nisha Abrol
nama om vishnu padaya Krishna prasthaya bhutale
srimate Devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinta
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet on this auspicious day of your Vyasa-Puja.
I don’t have the ability to describe the significance of your appearance in words but I am going to glorify you for my purification. You are very warm and a caring person; you touch everyone’s heart with your love and highly intellectual talks. Your lectures are always full of nectar and they have always been a source of great strength and inspiration for me.
Gurudeva, you are well known for being merciful and compassionate to the fallen and conditioned souls. In spite of my unlimited faults, you have always been protecting me from falling by showering your causeless mercy and trying to engage me somehow in the devotional service of the lord.
I would like to share one incident. This year in late June, one day I was bit upset and devastated and whole day I couldn’t decide what to do. And, in that very sad night you came in my dream. You were in a very big gathering; you got up from your Vyasa –asana; smiled at me and said, “Don’t worry, everything will be okay”. And the next morning, I got up with an assurance that whatever happens in my life you are always with me and I forgot about my problem. I offer my deepest gratitude for all your mercy and guidance.
Guru Maharaja, I would like to thank you for taking care not only my spiritual needs but also helping me to tackle with the problems of this material life. Please bless me that I will become a proper recipient of your abundant mercy and engage me in your service.
Aspiring to be your eternal servant,
Nisha Abrol
srimate Devamrita swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinta
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances!
All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet on this auspicious day of your Vyasa-Puja.
I don’t have the ability to describe the significance of your appearance in words but I am going to glorify you for my purification. You are very warm and a caring person; you touch everyone’s heart with your love and highly intellectual talks. Your lectures are always full of nectar and they have always been a source of great strength and inspiration for me.
Gurudeva, you are well known for being merciful and compassionate to the fallen and conditioned souls. In spite of my unlimited faults, you have always been protecting me from falling by showering your causeless mercy and trying to engage me somehow in the devotional service of the lord.
I would like to share one incident. This year in late June, one day I was bit upset and devastated and whole day I couldn’t decide what to do. And, in that very sad night you came in my dream. You were in a very big gathering; you got up from your Vyasa –asana; smiled at me and said, “Don’t worry, everything will be okay”. And the next morning, I got up with an assurance that whatever happens in my life you are always with me and I forgot about my problem. I offer my deepest gratitude for all your mercy and guidance.
Guru Maharaja, I would like to thank you for taking care not only my spiritual needs but also helping me to tackle with the problems of this material life. Please bless me that I will become a proper recipient of your abundant mercy and engage me in your service.
Aspiring to be your eternal servant,
Nisha Abrol
Osman Hassan Osman
Hare Krishna Devamrita Swami,
For the first time in my life, i am unable to express myself or describe something profound i had experienced.
When God willed that i meet with your divine self, it was a result of a life long struggle both internally and externally, simply because i had worshiped God for material gain; , never had i realised that relationship with God had a higher purpose, that purpose is to love God regardless, to love Him beyond material gain. What I needed was Bhakti, but I never knew such a concept existed till I came in contact with devotees, and through them i had the pleasure of meeting with you.
Meeting with you was the beginning of my journey with Bhakti. Specifically when I ate that cake you kindly offered me, it was a medicine that changed me to my core, i found myself calm, happy and longing for joyfully serving Krishna.
Since i met with you, and expressed my desire to devote myself to Krishna, and had the pleasure of receiving your blessing, my whole life changed. I now have purpose in life, calm, happy, joyful and i smile every day.
I am sending this letter to express my deepest gratitude
and appreciation and wishing you a very happy birthday and hope to see you again in near future.
Yours faithful servant, with love,
Osman Hassan
For the first time in my life, i am unable to express myself or describe something profound i had experienced.
When God willed that i meet with your divine self, it was a result of a life long struggle both internally and externally, simply because i had worshiped God for material gain; , never had i realised that relationship with God had a higher purpose, that purpose is to love God regardless, to love Him beyond material gain. What I needed was Bhakti, but I never knew such a concept existed till I came in contact with devotees, and through them i had the pleasure of meeting with you.
Meeting with you was the beginning of my journey with Bhakti. Specifically when I ate that cake you kindly offered me, it was a medicine that changed me to my core, i found myself calm, happy and longing for joyfully serving Krishna.
Since i met with you, and expressed my desire to devote myself to Krishna, and had the pleasure of receiving your blessing, my whole life changed. I now have purpose in life, calm, happy, joyful and i smile every day.
I am sending this letter to express my deepest gratitude
and appreciation and wishing you a very happy birthday and hope to see you again in near future.
Yours faithful servant, with love,
Osman Hassan
Pandava bandhava das
Dear Guru-Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisancess. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this most auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja I would like to thank you again for your causeless mercy and compassion.
You are true representative of Srila Prabhupada and our parampara. In order to show this I will quote two of Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavatam purports that are appropriate descriptions of your exalted transcendental qualities manifested in your expertise in preaching:
''Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the topmost theological science, and therefore it can react on the laymen as medicinal doses. Because it contains the transcendental activities of the Lord, there is no difference between the Lord and the literature. The literature is the factual literary incarnation of the Lord. So the laymen can hear the narration of the activities of the Lord. Thereby they are able to associate with the Lord and thus gradually become purified from material diseases. The expert devotees also can discover novel ways and means to convert the nondevotees in terms of particular time and circumstance. Devotional service is dynamic activity, and the expert devotees can find out competent means to inject it into the dull brains of the materialistic population. Such transcendental activities of the devotees for the service of the Lord can bring a new order of life to the foolish society of materialistic men. Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu and His subsequent followers exhibited expert dexterity in this connection. By following the same method, one can bring the materialistic men of this age of quarrel into order for peaceful life and transcendental realization." (SB. 1.5.16, p.)
Sometimes the devotees are perplexed how to convey the message of Mahaprabhu to the contemporary people. It seems that if we deliver it “as it is” it is not appealing to them. Shouldn’t we change it a bit here and there to make it more attractive? Perhaps by making some compromise?
With your successful preaching you are proving that it is possible to deliver the same unadulterated knowledge in an appealing way. This is possible only for rare devotees with a top level of realization in Krishna consciousness who have grasped and applied the essence of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings. Srila Prabhupada defines that type of realization in his purport to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.1:
"Personal realization does not mean that one should, out of vanity, attempt to show one’s own learning by trying to surpass the previous ācārya. He must have full confidence in the previous ācārya, and at the same time he must realize the subject matter so nicely that he can present the matter for the particular circumstances in a suitable manner. The original purpose of the text must be maintained. No obscure meaning should be screwed out of it, yet it should be presented in an interesting manner for the understanding of the audience. This is called realization."
Dear Gurudeva, you are obviously one of these exceptional souls who have attained that special level of realization. This is possible only when one is empowered by Krishna. It is stated in Sri Caitanya Caritamrita that unless empowered by Kṛṣṇa, one cannot propagate the saṅkīrtana movement. Your success in propagating the sankirtana movement is the proof that you have attained that mercy.
Because you are true lover of Krishna you are naturally very attractive personality. But you are using your wonderful qualities only in Krishna’s service, to attract more and more people to devotional service.
We are conditioned souls struggling with our anarthas. We are still convinced that we can find the real happiness here in the material world. Because of our impersonal contamination we think that the real fun is here and spirituality is something exalted but ultimately boring.
You are relentlessly dispelling our ignorance with your transcendental teachings, your amazing kirtans, your kindness, your genuine concern for us. When you are narrating Krishna’s pastimes they become reality. When you lead kirtans you are leading us inside Goloka Vrindavana. Your personality and your life is by itself a proof that it is possible to advance beyond mere theoretical knowledge to the level of realization of Krishna.
You are pointing out our mistakes and at the same time encouraging us to overcome them by being more serious in devotional service.
Dear Gurudeva, we are dependent on your mercy. Please continue to tolerate our shortcomings and to lead us back home back to Godhead.
Your servant,
Pandava bandhava das
Please accept my humble obeisancess. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this most auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja I would like to thank you again for your causeless mercy and compassion.
You are true representative of Srila Prabhupada and our parampara. In order to show this I will quote two of Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavatam purports that are appropriate descriptions of your exalted transcendental qualities manifested in your expertise in preaching:
''Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam is the topmost theological science, and therefore it can react on the laymen as medicinal doses. Because it contains the transcendental activities of the Lord, there is no difference between the Lord and the literature. The literature is the factual literary incarnation of the Lord. So the laymen can hear the narration of the activities of the Lord. Thereby they are able to associate with the Lord and thus gradually become purified from material diseases. The expert devotees also can discover novel ways and means to convert the nondevotees in terms of particular time and circumstance. Devotional service is dynamic activity, and the expert devotees can find out competent means to inject it into the dull brains of the materialistic population. Such transcendental activities of the devotees for the service of the Lord can bring a new order of life to the foolish society of materialistic men. Lord Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu and His subsequent followers exhibited expert dexterity in this connection. By following the same method, one can bring the materialistic men of this age of quarrel into order for peaceful life and transcendental realization." (SB. 1.5.16, p.)
Sometimes the devotees are perplexed how to convey the message of Mahaprabhu to the contemporary people. It seems that if we deliver it “as it is” it is not appealing to them. Shouldn’t we change it a bit here and there to make it more attractive? Perhaps by making some compromise?
With your successful preaching you are proving that it is possible to deliver the same unadulterated knowledge in an appealing way. This is possible only for rare devotees with a top level of realization in Krishna consciousness who have grasped and applied the essence of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings. Srila Prabhupada defines that type of realization in his purport to Srimad Bhagavatam 1.4.1:
"Personal realization does not mean that one should, out of vanity, attempt to show one’s own learning by trying to surpass the previous ācārya. He must have full confidence in the previous ācārya, and at the same time he must realize the subject matter so nicely that he can present the matter for the particular circumstances in a suitable manner. The original purpose of the text must be maintained. No obscure meaning should be screwed out of it, yet it should be presented in an interesting manner for the understanding of the audience. This is called realization."
Dear Gurudeva, you are obviously one of these exceptional souls who have attained that special level of realization. This is possible only when one is empowered by Krishna. It is stated in Sri Caitanya Caritamrita that unless empowered by Kṛṣṇa, one cannot propagate the saṅkīrtana movement. Your success in propagating the sankirtana movement is the proof that you have attained that mercy.
Because you are true lover of Krishna you are naturally very attractive personality. But you are using your wonderful qualities only in Krishna’s service, to attract more and more people to devotional service.
We are conditioned souls struggling with our anarthas. We are still convinced that we can find the real happiness here in the material world. Because of our impersonal contamination we think that the real fun is here and spirituality is something exalted but ultimately boring.
You are relentlessly dispelling our ignorance with your transcendental teachings, your amazing kirtans, your kindness, your genuine concern for us. When you are narrating Krishna’s pastimes they become reality. When you lead kirtans you are leading us inside Goloka Vrindavana. Your personality and your life is by itself a proof that it is possible to advance beyond mere theoretical knowledge to the level of realization of Krishna.
You are pointing out our mistakes and at the same time encouraging us to overcome them by being more serious in devotional service.
Dear Gurudeva, we are dependent on your mercy. Please continue to tolerate our shortcomings and to lead us back home back to Godhead.
Your servant,
Pandava bandhava das
Parama Mangala devi dasi
Hare Krishna!! All Glories to Srila Prabhupada!! All Glories to You, Guru Maharaj!!
Please accept my humble obeisances!
Happy Vyasa Puja to you on this most glorious day and occasion. Thank you for inspiring nectar of your instructions!
Happy Vyasa Puja!
Your servant, Parama Mangala devi dasi (Ulan-Ude)
Please accept my humble obeisances!
Happy Vyasa Puja to you on this most glorious day and occasion. Thank you for inspiring nectar of your instructions!
Happy Vyasa Puja!
Your servant, Parama Mangala devi dasi (Ulan-Ude)
Parjanya Gopa Das
nama om visnu padaya krsna presthaya bhutale srimate devamrta swmin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
I bow down to you Gurudeva who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching. Your expertise in this field is praised by the most exalted devotees in ISKON. Indeed they call you the Master. Because you are always concocting new plans to rescue the conditioned souls and give pleasure to Lord Caitanya.
You possess all competence in Vaishnava dealings. Your highly exalted position make you the shelter of your disciples and other exalted devotees who admire you.
Your selflessness is to give your life and soul to Srila Prabhupada's mission. You have embraced the burden of preaching in cities to Westerners.
Like many I have had the good fortune to enter in your transcendental Loft centre where you present Krishna Consciousness in a way accessible for every one and thus redirect their life.
I am forever grateful to be your disciple.
Your compassion is to always strive to give Krishna to others and to educate your disciples to do so.
I bow down to your lotus feet Gurudeva and beg to be used as an instrument in your service.
Your insignificant servant,
Parjanya gopa Das
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
I bow down to you Gurudeva who have all the qualities of unique skill in preaching. Your expertise in this field is praised by the most exalted devotees in ISKON. Indeed they call you the Master. Because you are always concocting new plans to rescue the conditioned souls and give pleasure to Lord Caitanya.
You possess all competence in Vaishnava dealings. Your highly exalted position make you the shelter of your disciples and other exalted devotees who admire you.
Your selflessness is to give your life and soul to Srila Prabhupada's mission. You have embraced the burden of preaching in cities to Westerners.
Like many I have had the good fortune to enter in your transcendental Loft centre where you present Krishna Consciousness in a way accessible for every one and thus redirect their life.
I am forever grateful to be your disciple.
Your compassion is to always strive to give Krishna to others and to educate your disciples to do so.
I bow down to your lotus feet Gurudeva and beg to be used as an instrument in your service.
Your insignificant servant,
Parjanya gopa Das
Pranav Mittal
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupad.
Please give me your blessings.
I go to Monthly Sankirtan Festival and distribute small books and Crossways cards.
I cut fruits and vegetables at the temple one day before Janmashtami. Sometimes I play kartal on saturday mornings during Darshan aarti. I put stickers of Mantra Lounge on your books.
Please continue to engage me in meaningful service.
Your servant,
Pranav Mittal
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupad.
Please give me your blessings.
I go to Monthly Sankirtan Festival and distribute small books and Crossways cards.
I cut fruits and vegetables at the temple one day before Janmashtami. Sometimes I play kartal on saturday mornings during Darshan aarti. I put stickers of Mantra Lounge on your books.
Please continue to engage me in meaningful service.
Your servant,
Pranav Mittal
Prema Sankirtan Das
Dear Guru Maharaj,
On this holy occasion of Vyasa Puja, I offer you my heartfelt expression.
I offer my respectful obeisances unto my spiritual master, who has opened my eyes, which were blinded by the darkness of ignorance, with the torchlight of knowledge.
This verse explains the factual position of someone like me, who is still a conditioned soul. But, is engaged in the process of devotional service to Guru and Gauranga, which is meant to purify my heart full of lust, anger, and envy.
I offer my respectful obeisances unto my spiritual master, the deliverer of the fallen souls, whose mercy turns the dumb into eloquent speakers and enables the lame to cross mountains.
This verse explains you my lovely spiritual master who’s mercy is my only hope.
The lotus feet of our spiritual master are the only way by which we can attain pure devotional service. I bow down to his lotus feet with great awe and reverence. By his grace, one can cross the ocean of material suffering and obtain the mercy of Krsna.
This verse from Sri Guru Vandana composed by Srila Narotama Das Thakur has meaning with the depth of the Karana ocean. To obtain the lotus feet of our spiritual master implant his divine instruction into our heart, where it can grow there forever, so I may be able to relish your association with You, the assembly of Vaishnavas, and Krsna eternally
My only wish is to have my consciousness purified by the words emanating from his lotus mouth. Attachment to his lotus feet is the perfection that fulfills all desires.
This verse explains how my consciousness is covered by the dirt of material desire. By your mercy, the onslaught of material desire can be stopped and pure love of Krsna can manifest.
By the mercy of the spiritual master, one receives the benediction of Krsna. Without the grace of the spiritual master, one cannot make any advancement. Therefore, I should always remember and praise the spiritual master. At least three times a day I should offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of my spiritual master.
This verse explains the potency of Krishna words in the Adi Purana “My dear Partha, one who claims to be my devotee is not so. Only a person who claims to be the devotee of My devotee is actually my devotee.’
My only inspiration in my wretched life is to be constantly acting in a way that is pleasing to you.
On this holy occasion of Vyasa Puja, I offer you my heartfelt expression.
I offer my respectful obeisances unto my spiritual master, who has opened my eyes, which were blinded by the darkness of ignorance, with the torchlight of knowledge.
This verse explains the factual position of someone like me, who is still a conditioned soul. But, is engaged in the process of devotional service to Guru and Gauranga, which is meant to purify my heart full of lust, anger, and envy.
I offer my respectful obeisances unto my spiritual master, the deliverer of the fallen souls, whose mercy turns the dumb into eloquent speakers and enables the lame to cross mountains.
This verse explains you my lovely spiritual master who’s mercy is my only hope.
The lotus feet of our spiritual master are the only way by which we can attain pure devotional service. I bow down to his lotus feet with great awe and reverence. By his grace, one can cross the ocean of material suffering and obtain the mercy of Krsna.
This verse from Sri Guru Vandana composed by Srila Narotama Das Thakur has meaning with the depth of the Karana ocean. To obtain the lotus feet of our spiritual master implant his divine instruction into our heart, where it can grow there forever, so I may be able to relish your association with You, the assembly of Vaishnavas, and Krsna eternally
My only wish is to have my consciousness purified by the words emanating from his lotus mouth. Attachment to his lotus feet is the perfection that fulfills all desires.
This verse explains how my consciousness is covered by the dirt of material desire. By your mercy, the onslaught of material desire can be stopped and pure love of Krsna can manifest.
By the mercy of the spiritual master, one receives the benediction of Krsna. Without the grace of the spiritual master, one cannot make any advancement. Therefore, I should always remember and praise the spiritual master. At least three times a day I should offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of my spiritual master.
This verse explains the potency of Krishna words in the Adi Purana “My dear Partha, one who claims to be my devotee is not so. Only a person who claims to be the devotee of My devotee is actually my devotee.’
My only inspiration in my wretched life is to be constantly acting in a way that is pleasing to you.
Prema-lahari devi dasi
Dearest Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to You on this most auspicious day of your appearance!!
Gurudeva today on your Vyasa Puja I want to thank you for saving me from the horrible cycle of striving for infinitesimal happiness in the ocean of infinite suffering.
Krsna tells Uddhava in SB 11.11.29-32 the qualities of a saintly person, You possess all of them and they are all worth glorifying but I would like to mention this first part. “Oh Uddhava, a saintly person is merciful and never injures others. Even if others are aggressive he is tolerant and forgiving toward all living entities. His strength and meaning in life come from the truth itself, he is free from all envy and jealousy, and his mind is equal in material happiness and distress. Thus he dedicates his time to work for the welfare of all others.”
Gurudeva you have dedicated all your time to work personally, at a one on one level, for the welfare of others. You extended your loving hand to me when I was 20, endeavouring very hard for the little drop of water available in the desert of my life. You tolerated so much rubbish coming from my mouth, the awful jokes I tried to tell you, and you happily made yourself relatable to me, telling me you also used to play lacrosse (which was the field of my main attempt at happiness) and asked me “How long did it take you to learn to cradle the ball?” Then instructing me to have that same patience, determination and enthusiasm in chanting Hare Krsna.
For lacrosse I would trial so many times, clubs, nationals, internationals. I would train and train, on my own or with the team, sacrificing so much time, early mornings with intense exercise regimes to increase the stamina, strength, speed, and physical prowess, of which I was very proud, not realising that all the trainings I was doing a gorilla could do far more easily and 1000% better…
Then we had our mental skills trainings, studying and analysing strategies weaving patterns and plays on the field, learning how to minimise and shut off our emotions to remain mentally alert, play it tough, get shoved and shove back harder, (in a sneaky way so the ref doesn’t see). I mean why not just be a bull elephant?
I was so focussed, putting aside all other considerations, even the lucid lure of alcohol, but what was the end result? Making the team, playing in Canada, or Germany or Australia, wherever you go the field is the same. After so much sacrifice and intense endeavour, all we did was win some games, lose some games then go to the pub for a few hours of blissful indulgence, and return home with our feelings of elation quickly becoming feelings of emptiness. We’d call it post tour blues. The bang didn’t match the buck. But then what else was there to do? So after a few weeks get back into gear, re oil the engine for the next 2 year intensive training program, thinking, that world cup didn’t do it for me, but this one probably will.
All this endeavour to prove myself, to prove I could become something, to feel a sense of belonging in a place where no one belongs.
Thank you Gurudeva for plucking me up and placing me in the much needed shelter in the thriving fertile ground of the Nandini ashram. No where else like it in the world! Thanks to the association of such spiritually strict, strong, sincere and loving devotees I am gradually rewiring. I’m getting healed from the disease of becoming and learning how to be.
You might ask, “How to be what? Simply “be” in the present moment?” Then you’d let me know, “That’s what animal life is for”
You are teaching me how to be who I am already, the servant of the servant of the servant.
I am now in training for my eternal career of servant service, involving an intense physical regime to stay as healthy and alert as possible for sankirtan and cooking, cleaning and teaching yoga.
Then there’s the mental skills training, beating the mind with a shoe 100 times every morning and with a broom stick 100 times every evening. The constant battle for attentive japa, learning different strategies of bringing the mind back to the Holy Name from wherever it has wandered off to. On top of that, one Bhagavad Gita to learn, 18 volumes of Srimad Bhagavatam to analyse and apply, and 9 Golden Caitanya Caritamrta volumes to relish. Then also learning to minimise the false ego so that when it gets a shove, I don’t have to sit and nurse it back to health but relish the Purification. And instead of shutting out all emotions, you teach how to truly experience them, “Bhakti is an emotional process” “Feel something when you chant Hare Krsna”. Just recently you gave us a first hand demonstration of how to “Cry out for Krsna like a child crying out for it’s mother.” That was something I’ll never forget! And you teach us to bear the burden of personalism. Learn to be a person again and bring others to personalism. Wear your heart on your sleeve, it’ll get a battering but you have to to bring people to Krsna Consciousness.
The best thing about the career of servant service is that it’s “Joyfully performed”, you are happy while doing it, and the bang is bigger than the buck, bigger than any buck I could ever put in.
Gurudeva I owe every fibre of my being to the senior devotees who caught me from my struggle in the ocean and gave me to you and are trying so hard to help me grow back into being a person and a servant of the servant. They are very dear to you so my offering to you this year is to endeavour with the same and more determination, patience, and enthusiasm in serving your servants, than I did in my dreams of being a lacrosse star. I sleep in the same room as two of them, with another 9 within a 15m radius, so it’s not hard to find them, it’s an internal endeavour, so I am praying to you for the strength to break through my stupid spiritual laziness and impersonalistic conditioning to apply myself fully, physical, mentally and emotionally in the eternal career of serving your servants.
Your eternally indebted spiritual daughter and aspiring servant,
Prema-lahari devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to You on this most auspicious day of your appearance!!
Gurudeva today on your Vyasa Puja I want to thank you for saving me from the horrible cycle of striving for infinitesimal happiness in the ocean of infinite suffering.
Krsna tells Uddhava in SB 11.11.29-32 the qualities of a saintly person, You possess all of them and they are all worth glorifying but I would like to mention this first part. “Oh Uddhava, a saintly person is merciful and never injures others. Even if others are aggressive he is tolerant and forgiving toward all living entities. His strength and meaning in life come from the truth itself, he is free from all envy and jealousy, and his mind is equal in material happiness and distress. Thus he dedicates his time to work for the welfare of all others.”
Gurudeva you have dedicated all your time to work personally, at a one on one level, for the welfare of others. You extended your loving hand to me when I was 20, endeavouring very hard for the little drop of water available in the desert of my life. You tolerated so much rubbish coming from my mouth, the awful jokes I tried to tell you, and you happily made yourself relatable to me, telling me you also used to play lacrosse (which was the field of my main attempt at happiness) and asked me “How long did it take you to learn to cradle the ball?” Then instructing me to have that same patience, determination and enthusiasm in chanting Hare Krsna.
For lacrosse I would trial so many times, clubs, nationals, internationals. I would train and train, on my own or with the team, sacrificing so much time, early mornings with intense exercise regimes to increase the stamina, strength, speed, and physical prowess, of which I was very proud, not realising that all the trainings I was doing a gorilla could do far more easily and 1000% better…
Then we had our mental skills trainings, studying and analysing strategies weaving patterns and plays on the field, learning how to minimise and shut off our emotions to remain mentally alert, play it tough, get shoved and shove back harder, (in a sneaky way so the ref doesn’t see). I mean why not just be a bull elephant?
I was so focussed, putting aside all other considerations, even the lucid lure of alcohol, but what was the end result? Making the team, playing in Canada, or Germany or Australia, wherever you go the field is the same. After so much sacrifice and intense endeavour, all we did was win some games, lose some games then go to the pub for a few hours of blissful indulgence, and return home with our feelings of elation quickly becoming feelings of emptiness. We’d call it post tour blues. The bang didn’t match the buck. But then what else was there to do? So after a few weeks get back into gear, re oil the engine for the next 2 year intensive training program, thinking, that world cup didn’t do it for me, but this one probably will.
All this endeavour to prove myself, to prove I could become something, to feel a sense of belonging in a place where no one belongs.
Thank you Gurudeva for plucking me up and placing me in the much needed shelter in the thriving fertile ground of the Nandini ashram. No where else like it in the world! Thanks to the association of such spiritually strict, strong, sincere and loving devotees I am gradually rewiring. I’m getting healed from the disease of becoming and learning how to be.
You might ask, “How to be what? Simply “be” in the present moment?” Then you’d let me know, “That’s what animal life is for”
You are teaching me how to be who I am already, the servant of the servant of the servant.
I am now in training for my eternal career of servant service, involving an intense physical regime to stay as healthy and alert as possible for sankirtan and cooking, cleaning and teaching yoga.
Then there’s the mental skills training, beating the mind with a shoe 100 times every morning and with a broom stick 100 times every evening. The constant battle for attentive japa, learning different strategies of bringing the mind back to the Holy Name from wherever it has wandered off to. On top of that, one Bhagavad Gita to learn, 18 volumes of Srimad Bhagavatam to analyse and apply, and 9 Golden Caitanya Caritamrta volumes to relish. Then also learning to minimise the false ego so that when it gets a shove, I don’t have to sit and nurse it back to health but relish the Purification. And instead of shutting out all emotions, you teach how to truly experience them, “Bhakti is an emotional process” “Feel something when you chant Hare Krsna”. Just recently you gave us a first hand demonstration of how to “Cry out for Krsna like a child crying out for it’s mother.” That was something I’ll never forget! And you teach us to bear the burden of personalism. Learn to be a person again and bring others to personalism. Wear your heart on your sleeve, it’ll get a battering but you have to to bring people to Krsna Consciousness.
The best thing about the career of servant service is that it’s “Joyfully performed”, you are happy while doing it, and the bang is bigger than the buck, bigger than any buck I could ever put in.
Gurudeva I owe every fibre of my being to the senior devotees who caught me from my struggle in the ocean and gave me to you and are trying so hard to help me grow back into being a person and a servant of the servant. They are very dear to you so my offering to you this year is to endeavour with the same and more determination, patience, and enthusiasm in serving your servants, than I did in my dreams of being a lacrosse star. I sleep in the same room as two of them, with another 9 within a 15m radius, so it’s not hard to find them, it’s an internal endeavour, so I am praying to you for the strength to break through my stupid spiritual laziness and impersonalistic conditioning to apply myself fully, physical, mentally and emotionally in the eternal career of serving your servants.
Your eternally indebted spiritual daughter and aspiring servant,
Prema-lahari devi dasi
Premdham das
Hare Krishna Guru Maharaj,
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious occasion I pray to Lord Krishna for your good health and seek continous guidance from you.
It is miracle that in spite of so many challenges of material existence I could someone able to chant and do diety workship. It is only because of your mercy that you've taken all our sins and keep on having compassion on this useless soul to bless us and keep us on the path of bhakti. In spite of so many opportunties I still have no appreication for the vast treasure that we received in the form of your mercy and Krishan's holy name. Please keep your causeless mercy on us to continue to serve you birth after births.
You've always protected me - some times by arraning favourable sitatuions and sometimes by not so favourable but all arrangments was to set us to bring us to Krishna. What more miracles I could see that I'm getting the most priceless jewel in the whole universe - I'm still able to chant and somehow or other getting chance to meet devotees and do diety seva to Lord Jagannath, Baldev and Subhadra maiya at home. Dear Guru Maharaj, it is only because of your love on to us.
I don't have any word to pay my gratitude to your blessings on these useless souls. It is only because of your guidance these souls filled with lust, anger and gread are still staying on the devine path shown by Srila Prabhupada. While we as a family getting our shares of material happiness and miseries we someone or other stayed together and strengthened our relationships among ourselves and slowly started to understand the great treasure of wealth that you're constantly giving us in the form of holy name and His compassion.
On this day, may I request to Gaur Nitai to shower their choiest blessing on to you.
Your aspiring servant,
Premdham das
Please accept our humble obeisances.
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious occasion I pray to Lord Krishna for your good health and seek continous guidance from you.
It is miracle that in spite of so many challenges of material existence I could someone able to chant and do diety workship. It is only because of your mercy that you've taken all our sins and keep on having compassion on this useless soul to bless us and keep us on the path of bhakti. In spite of so many opportunties I still have no appreication for the vast treasure that we received in the form of your mercy and Krishan's holy name. Please keep your causeless mercy on us to continue to serve you birth after births.
You've always protected me - some times by arraning favourable sitatuions and sometimes by not so favourable but all arrangments was to set us to bring us to Krishna. What more miracles I could see that I'm getting the most priceless jewel in the whole universe - I'm still able to chant and somehow or other getting chance to meet devotees and do diety seva to Lord Jagannath, Baldev and Subhadra maiya at home. Dear Guru Maharaj, it is only because of your love on to us.
I don't have any word to pay my gratitude to your blessings on these useless souls. It is only because of your guidance these souls filled with lust, anger and gread are still staying on the devine path shown by Srila Prabhupada. While we as a family getting our shares of material happiness and miseries we someone or other stayed together and strengthened our relationships among ourselves and slowly started to understand the great treasure of wealth that you're constantly giving us in the form of holy name and His compassion.
On this day, may I request to Gaur Nitai to shower their choiest blessing on to you.
Your aspiring servant,
Premdham das
Priyanka Mittal
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupad.
All glories to you.
Your lectures and books cut through my illusion about this material world. They inspire me to give myself to Srila Prabhupad's mission and create a desire in my heart to go back home, back to Godhead. People that I know, who are not Krishna conscious, I pray that somehow they hear your lectures or read your books and get started in their spiritual lives. I give them your recent book, Hiding in Unnatural Happiness. How nicely you expose the myths surrounding material happiness and inspire readers to rise to a higher platform, where Srila Prabhupad's books are waiting to reveal all the mysteries of the spiritual world.
Recently I had a dream that my husband and I were sitting together and a video of your lecture was playing on the laptop. He was watching intently and getting convinced by your words. I felt so happy. It was a dream, but I know in my heart that just by staying connected with you via your instructions, people I care about will get your mercy, just as I am.
With my tiny intelligence and stone like heart I may never fully comprehend your compassion towards this fallen soul. I have already wasted so many years of my life in sense enjoyment. I want to become serious about my Krishna consciousness. I want to do meaningful service that will make you happy.
On this auspicious day of your Vyasapuja, I pray to Krishna that I always remain under the shelter of your lotus feet and continue progressing in my Krishna consciousness.
Your servant
Priyanka
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupad.
All glories to you.
Your lectures and books cut through my illusion about this material world. They inspire me to give myself to Srila Prabhupad's mission and create a desire in my heart to go back home, back to Godhead. People that I know, who are not Krishna conscious, I pray that somehow they hear your lectures or read your books and get started in their spiritual lives. I give them your recent book, Hiding in Unnatural Happiness. How nicely you expose the myths surrounding material happiness and inspire readers to rise to a higher platform, where Srila Prabhupad's books are waiting to reveal all the mysteries of the spiritual world.
Recently I had a dream that my husband and I were sitting together and a video of your lecture was playing on the laptop. He was watching intently and getting convinced by your words. I felt so happy. It was a dream, but I know in my heart that just by staying connected with you via your instructions, people I care about will get your mercy, just as I am.
With my tiny intelligence and stone like heart I may never fully comprehend your compassion towards this fallen soul. I have already wasted so many years of my life in sense enjoyment. I want to become serious about my Krishna consciousness. I want to do meaningful service that will make you happy.
On this auspicious day of your Vyasapuja, I pray to Krishna that I always remain under the shelter of your lotus feet and continue progressing in my Krishna consciousness.
Your servant
Priyanka
Radha Prasada devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja.
I often think of you, though these days we seldom speak I always feel connected to you through service.
Seeing you at Gita Nagari I was observing how you skillfully fit into any environment. You easily adapt to where you are - taking into consideration the culture, nature and age of your audience. Whether you are speaking with long time practitioners or the newbie who’s on the verge of dipping their toes into the ocean of Bhakti. Whoever you connect with you leave a lasting impression. The first time I met you was no different. I could tell you were immersed in deep realizations and living a life of truth and knowledge. You have always inspired me to dive deeper and to continually work on developing a more personal relationship with Krsna. On your recent trip to Gita Nagari while on a japa walk our paths crossed, I will always treasure this special time. Thank you for your kindness, encouragement and mercy.
This world is filled with challenges. Indeed the only certainty within this material world is that there is no certainty. Looking back on what transpired in 2016 could seem like the making of a nightmare. Caring for two very dear souls who’s bodies were being eaten away by cancer, a lawsuit and for added intensity, staring down the barrel of my own mortality with a possible cancer diagnosis. It’s enough to make any girl crumble under pressure. But by Krsna’s grace and your mercy what was an incredibly difficult time resulted in the deepest immersion and taste in chanting the holy name I have ever experienced. Thank you Gurudeva for everything you have done for me and countless other souls. You touch people’s hearts in the deepest and most sincere way possible.
Everyone of us are looking to live our lives with purpose and true meaning within Krsna Consciousness. Indeed that’s the real goal of everyone in this world. Outwardly this may look rather different but the goal is the same. Whether raising a family, plugging in with outreach projects like Bhakti Lounge or farm communities working towards a more sustainable future. You are always the driving force, encouraging us all to make the most of the opportunities within Krsna Consciousness.
By the grace of Krsna we come in contact with the spiritual master and by the grace of the spiritual master we get Krsna.
Today we are celebrating your Vyasa Puja and this year it falls on my birthday. What a glorious gift this is for me to spend the day meditating and hearing about your glories. You have given me the greatest gift anyone could ever receive. It’s hard to believe I met you in my teens and now I’m in my mid 30’s. Where has the time gone? You tolerated me being such a rascal, so headstrong, feisty and basically to be fair a mental cot-case. You patiently and lovingly unpacked my nonsense and encouraged me to grow. We are so fortunate to have your guidance and instructions. Step by step, day by day you lead us further along the joyous path of Bhakti. From your first instruction that we should get married to traveling to the other side of the world to serve. So much has happened between that first and current instruction.
When I look at you and your mood and devotion towards your beloved spiritual master Srila Prabhupada I see your strength, integrity and determination to continue spreading his mission all over the world.
I pray that I can always remain under your care and guidance and that I can one day be of assistance to you rather than just a burden.
Begging to always remain the recipient of your mercy.
Your spiritual daughter and servant always.
Radha Prasada devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your Vyasa Puja.
I often think of you, though these days we seldom speak I always feel connected to you through service.
Seeing you at Gita Nagari I was observing how you skillfully fit into any environment. You easily adapt to where you are - taking into consideration the culture, nature and age of your audience. Whether you are speaking with long time practitioners or the newbie who’s on the verge of dipping their toes into the ocean of Bhakti. Whoever you connect with you leave a lasting impression. The first time I met you was no different. I could tell you were immersed in deep realizations and living a life of truth and knowledge. You have always inspired me to dive deeper and to continually work on developing a more personal relationship with Krsna. On your recent trip to Gita Nagari while on a japa walk our paths crossed, I will always treasure this special time. Thank you for your kindness, encouragement and mercy.
This world is filled with challenges. Indeed the only certainty within this material world is that there is no certainty. Looking back on what transpired in 2016 could seem like the making of a nightmare. Caring for two very dear souls who’s bodies were being eaten away by cancer, a lawsuit and for added intensity, staring down the barrel of my own mortality with a possible cancer diagnosis. It’s enough to make any girl crumble under pressure. But by Krsna’s grace and your mercy what was an incredibly difficult time resulted in the deepest immersion and taste in chanting the holy name I have ever experienced. Thank you Gurudeva for everything you have done for me and countless other souls. You touch people’s hearts in the deepest and most sincere way possible.
Everyone of us are looking to live our lives with purpose and true meaning within Krsna Consciousness. Indeed that’s the real goal of everyone in this world. Outwardly this may look rather different but the goal is the same. Whether raising a family, plugging in with outreach projects like Bhakti Lounge or farm communities working towards a more sustainable future. You are always the driving force, encouraging us all to make the most of the opportunities within Krsna Consciousness.
By the grace of Krsna we come in contact with the spiritual master and by the grace of the spiritual master we get Krsna.
Today we are celebrating your Vyasa Puja and this year it falls on my birthday. What a glorious gift this is for me to spend the day meditating and hearing about your glories. You have given me the greatest gift anyone could ever receive. It’s hard to believe I met you in my teens and now I’m in my mid 30’s. Where has the time gone? You tolerated me being such a rascal, so headstrong, feisty and basically to be fair a mental cot-case. You patiently and lovingly unpacked my nonsense and encouraged me to grow. We are so fortunate to have your guidance and instructions. Step by step, day by day you lead us further along the joyous path of Bhakti. From your first instruction that we should get married to traveling to the other side of the world to serve. So much has happened between that first and current instruction.
When I look at you and your mood and devotion towards your beloved spiritual master Srila Prabhupada I see your strength, integrity and determination to continue spreading his mission all over the world.
I pray that I can always remain under your care and guidance and that I can one day be of assistance to you rather than just a burden.
Begging to always remain the recipient of your mercy.
Your spiritual daughter and servant always.
Radha Prasada devi dasi
Radha-mohan das
Dearest Gurumaharaj,
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! All glories to your most auspicious Vyasa-Puja!
Gurumaharaj, while I have no qualification or words to adequately glorify you on your Vyasa-Puja, I do beg to fall in the dust of your lotus feet, and express my heart-felt, most sincere gratitude for saving me from an aimless and helpless materialistic life being wasted in the lap of the unforgiving and ruthless material energy. You are my master, and the life-giving father to my forgotten self. With each passing day, I feel the growing presence of your mercy and shelter in my life.
This past year was a growing experience for me, both emotionally and spiritually. I felt helpless at my failed attempts to be able to so-called manage the unexpected situations thrown at me. But your merciful intervention, Gurumaharaj, cleared the clouds of illusion, and helped me to deal with the circumstances in the best way possible, for which I remain eternally grateful.
Gurumaharaj, you often quote Srila Prabhupada that this material world means constant waves of disturbance and sufferings, and that the real surprise is that sometimes there is peace here (and not vice versa). “There is ALWAYS something in this material world that will NOT fit” - these words of your divine Vani never leave me.
On this most blessed day, I beg at your lotus feet that through all the waves of happiness and sufferings that will come my way, I somehow remain attached to the most glorious Sankirtan movement of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Only by your grace, Gurumaharaj, I have been somehow convinced about this doctrine that I have learnt from your lectures – 'the more the Sankirtan movement expands, the more the Pancattatva dance and chant, the more the people hear the message of Srimad Bhagavatam…the more the seed of material desires in everyone’s hearts will dry up and all the so-called problems in our lives will go away'.
Despite all my disqualifications, Gurumaharaj, I want to beg you to always keep me under your shelter so that I can also serve you, in some insignificant way, in your mission of distributing Srila Prabhupada’s books and expanding the Sankirtan movement on behalf of the disciplic succession.
I pray for your good health Gurudev so that many more fortunate souls like me can become Krishna Conscious in this lifetime.
Your eternally indebted servant,
Radha-mohan das
Toronto, Canada
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! All glories to your most auspicious Vyasa-Puja!
Gurumaharaj, while I have no qualification or words to adequately glorify you on your Vyasa-Puja, I do beg to fall in the dust of your lotus feet, and express my heart-felt, most sincere gratitude for saving me from an aimless and helpless materialistic life being wasted in the lap of the unforgiving and ruthless material energy. You are my master, and the life-giving father to my forgotten self. With each passing day, I feel the growing presence of your mercy and shelter in my life.
This past year was a growing experience for me, both emotionally and spiritually. I felt helpless at my failed attempts to be able to so-called manage the unexpected situations thrown at me. But your merciful intervention, Gurumaharaj, cleared the clouds of illusion, and helped me to deal with the circumstances in the best way possible, for which I remain eternally grateful.
Gurumaharaj, you often quote Srila Prabhupada that this material world means constant waves of disturbance and sufferings, and that the real surprise is that sometimes there is peace here (and not vice versa). “There is ALWAYS something in this material world that will NOT fit” - these words of your divine Vani never leave me.
On this most blessed day, I beg at your lotus feet that through all the waves of happiness and sufferings that will come my way, I somehow remain attached to the most glorious Sankirtan movement of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Only by your grace, Gurumaharaj, I have been somehow convinced about this doctrine that I have learnt from your lectures – 'the more the Sankirtan movement expands, the more the Pancattatva dance and chant, the more the people hear the message of Srimad Bhagavatam…the more the seed of material desires in everyone’s hearts will dry up and all the so-called problems in our lives will go away'.
Despite all my disqualifications, Gurumaharaj, I want to beg you to always keep me under your shelter so that I can also serve you, in some insignificant way, in your mission of distributing Srila Prabhupada’s books and expanding the Sankirtan movement on behalf of the disciplic succession.
I pray for your good health Gurudev so that many more fortunate souls like me can become Krishna Conscious in this lifetime.
Your eternally indebted servant,
Radha-mohan das
Toronto, Canada
Radhananda Devi Dasi
Dear Gurudeva.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your Vyasapuja.
This is that time of the year when I finally get to sit down and realize how I became the luckiest person in the world since I met you and received a pure, genuine knowledge from you.
Srimad Bhagavatam, the great transcendental science that you always highly recommend me to read is full of true life stories of different exalted personalities undergoing varieties of difficulties that none of us could ever imagine going through.
Later on all these great personalities are being blessed by the presence of another extraordinarily personalities acting as their spiritual guides instructing them about the real purpose of life- knowing the ultimate source of everything, Krishna and our relationship with Him.
The more I am trying to read and understand these narrations the more I am realizing how extremely fortunate I am of having the same opportunity like those exalted devotees to meet a bona fide spiritual teacher trying to out of the most causeless mercy instruct me in the same subject matter in this very crazy day and age.
I always will be amazed how quickly my life has transformed after I entered Bhakti Lounge center.
In that magical atmosphere which is a manifestation of your great endeavor, compassion and kindness,
the seed of devotional service has been secretly sown into my heart.
After few years of caring that seed my understanding of what is a reality and what is an illusion started becoming more and more clear. And just at the begging of this year I finally agreed to make the most important vow one can ever make in this human form of life.
Thank you again for accepting my as your disciple!
It took me few years, foolish condition soul, to come to a little humble platform and realize that I need guidance, I need help. I am drowning in the ocean of miseries…
When I returned from Melbourne back to Wellington after almost three years I was so astonished to see how many new enthusiastic devotees have been sprouting from this place.
All because of your great compassion, enthusiasm and dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s mission.
All my senior god brothers and god sisters developed unshakeable faith, determination and expertise in preaching to the poor conditioned souls learnt from your personal example.
I wish I could have some purity and intelligence to expertly preach to the suffering souls as you and all these dedicated devotees.
I like the story of king Pracinabarhisat who so humble admitted that his intelligence was simply entangled in fruitive activity bondage. Admitting his ignorance and lack of knowledge of the real goal of life he submissively accepted Narada Muni as his spiritual master who pleased by the king’s mood revealed to him the most secret knowledge and invoke a spirit of renunciation from mundane enjoyment in his heart.
Whenever you come to visit us, you perform same heart surgeries on us with the same expertise as Narada Muni to the king Pracinabarhisat. Also trying to help us invoke the same spirit of renunciation from maya’s illusion. We have been bowing down to the material energy over millions of lifetimes.
To clean this bondage requires so much patience and tolerance for you. Please don’t give up on us.
Your Grace, Srila Prabhupada, Narada Muni, Vritasura, Sukadeva Goswami and all the other amazing great spiritual doctors of our Bhakti Yoga tradition have been send to us by the mercy of Krishna.
We could not obtain more valuable gift in this lifetime. We are a very difficult, lazy, space out generation. We are supposed to continue the movement one day. Please give us the strength to carry on with lord Caitanya’s mission.
I wasted so much time lamenting this year. I hope of finally being of some importance for you and this mission. I can only please Krishna if I please you. But how can I ever please you with my attitude?
Gurudeva thank you for tolerating me. I try my best to improve myself and be more resolute.
Your servant Radhananda Devi Dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your Vyasapuja.
This is that time of the year when I finally get to sit down and realize how I became the luckiest person in the world since I met you and received a pure, genuine knowledge from you.
Srimad Bhagavatam, the great transcendental science that you always highly recommend me to read is full of true life stories of different exalted personalities undergoing varieties of difficulties that none of us could ever imagine going through.
Later on all these great personalities are being blessed by the presence of another extraordinarily personalities acting as their spiritual guides instructing them about the real purpose of life- knowing the ultimate source of everything, Krishna and our relationship with Him.
The more I am trying to read and understand these narrations the more I am realizing how extremely fortunate I am of having the same opportunity like those exalted devotees to meet a bona fide spiritual teacher trying to out of the most causeless mercy instruct me in the same subject matter in this very crazy day and age.
I always will be amazed how quickly my life has transformed after I entered Bhakti Lounge center.
In that magical atmosphere which is a manifestation of your great endeavor, compassion and kindness,
the seed of devotional service has been secretly sown into my heart.
After few years of caring that seed my understanding of what is a reality and what is an illusion started becoming more and more clear. And just at the begging of this year I finally agreed to make the most important vow one can ever make in this human form of life.
Thank you again for accepting my as your disciple!
It took me few years, foolish condition soul, to come to a little humble platform and realize that I need guidance, I need help. I am drowning in the ocean of miseries…
When I returned from Melbourne back to Wellington after almost three years I was so astonished to see how many new enthusiastic devotees have been sprouting from this place.
All because of your great compassion, enthusiasm and dedication to Srila Prabhupada’s mission.
All my senior god brothers and god sisters developed unshakeable faith, determination and expertise in preaching to the poor conditioned souls learnt from your personal example.
I wish I could have some purity and intelligence to expertly preach to the suffering souls as you and all these dedicated devotees.
I like the story of king Pracinabarhisat who so humble admitted that his intelligence was simply entangled in fruitive activity bondage. Admitting his ignorance and lack of knowledge of the real goal of life he submissively accepted Narada Muni as his spiritual master who pleased by the king’s mood revealed to him the most secret knowledge and invoke a spirit of renunciation from mundane enjoyment in his heart.
Whenever you come to visit us, you perform same heart surgeries on us with the same expertise as Narada Muni to the king Pracinabarhisat. Also trying to help us invoke the same spirit of renunciation from maya’s illusion. We have been bowing down to the material energy over millions of lifetimes.
To clean this bondage requires so much patience and tolerance for you. Please don’t give up on us.
Your Grace, Srila Prabhupada, Narada Muni, Vritasura, Sukadeva Goswami and all the other amazing great spiritual doctors of our Bhakti Yoga tradition have been send to us by the mercy of Krishna.
We could not obtain more valuable gift in this lifetime. We are a very difficult, lazy, space out generation. We are supposed to continue the movement one day. Please give us the strength to carry on with lord Caitanya’s mission.
I wasted so much time lamenting this year. I hope of finally being of some importance for you and this mission. I can only please Krishna if I please you. But how can I ever please you with my attitude?
Gurudeva thank you for tolerating me. I try my best to improve myself and be more resolute.
Your servant Radhananda Devi Dasi
Radhika Prasad Das
Hare Krishna Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my respectful obeisances on this glorious day of your vyasa pooja. This is the best day of the year to ponder on my good fortune to have met you on this planet- in this life.
This year I was constantly meditating about something I had read on Guru’s mercy. The article said that Guru is more merciful than one’s own mother. I never had thought in this perspective before, and when I deeply considered this thought and meditated for a few days I realised, “actually its true”.
Because mother may give defence skills for a few years in the early childhood, and takes care of our needs until we are grown up, perhaps teenagers. But Gurudev, you have showed an eternal path back to Krishna and are prepared to deliver us from this everlasting ignorance. Particularly considering my depth of ignorance, this can become some task.
This body is a fully fledged crop of sins, and the inclination towards the bodily platform of life is my strongest fears. I was not even sure if I will ever be successful in a spiritual path, but with you as a captain of my boat I feel confident, yes this can happen. Even my kind of ignorance can be delivered with your mercy.
SB 11.20.17
nṛ-deham ādyaṁ sulabhaṁ sudurlabhaṁ
plavaṁ sukalpaṁ guru-karṇadhāram
mayānukūlena nabhasvateritaṁ
pumān bhavābdhiṁ na taret sa ātma-hā
When one wants to cross a large ocean, he requires a strong boat. It is said that this human form of life is a good boat by which one can cross the ocean of nescience. In the human form of life one can obtain the guidance of a good navigator, the spiritual master. One also gets a favorable wind by the mercy of Kṛṣṇa, and that wind is the instructions of Kṛṣṇa. The human body is the boat, the instructions of Lord Kṛṣṇa are the favorable winds, and the spiritual master is the navigator. The spiritual master knows well how to adjust the sails to catch the winds favorably and steer the boat to its destination. If, however, one does not take advantage of this opportunity, one wastes the human form of life. Wasting time and life in this way is the same as committing suicide. - very strong !
Then I finally realised, yes Gurudev is the most merciful, even more merciful than one’s own mother. If there is a hero in my life, that is you !
Today on this auspicious day of your Vyasa pooja we have performed special Narsimaha havan praying Him ardently for your safe travels around the globe.
Hare Krishna - Your eternal servant Radhika Prasad Das
Please accept my respectful obeisances on this glorious day of your vyasa pooja. This is the best day of the year to ponder on my good fortune to have met you on this planet- in this life.
This year I was constantly meditating about something I had read on Guru’s mercy. The article said that Guru is more merciful than one’s own mother. I never had thought in this perspective before, and when I deeply considered this thought and meditated for a few days I realised, “actually its true”.
Because mother may give defence skills for a few years in the early childhood, and takes care of our needs until we are grown up, perhaps teenagers. But Gurudev, you have showed an eternal path back to Krishna and are prepared to deliver us from this everlasting ignorance. Particularly considering my depth of ignorance, this can become some task.
This body is a fully fledged crop of sins, and the inclination towards the bodily platform of life is my strongest fears. I was not even sure if I will ever be successful in a spiritual path, but with you as a captain of my boat I feel confident, yes this can happen. Even my kind of ignorance can be delivered with your mercy.
SB 11.20.17
nṛ-deham ādyaṁ sulabhaṁ sudurlabhaṁ
plavaṁ sukalpaṁ guru-karṇadhāram
mayānukūlena nabhasvateritaṁ
pumān bhavābdhiṁ na taret sa ātma-hā
When one wants to cross a large ocean, he requires a strong boat. It is said that this human form of life is a good boat by which one can cross the ocean of nescience. In the human form of life one can obtain the guidance of a good navigator, the spiritual master. One also gets a favorable wind by the mercy of Kṛṣṇa, and that wind is the instructions of Kṛṣṇa. The human body is the boat, the instructions of Lord Kṛṣṇa are the favorable winds, and the spiritual master is the navigator. The spiritual master knows well how to adjust the sails to catch the winds favorably and steer the boat to its destination. If, however, one does not take advantage of this opportunity, one wastes the human form of life. Wasting time and life in this way is the same as committing suicide. - very strong !
Then I finally realised, yes Gurudev is the most merciful, even more merciful than one’s own mother. If there is a hero in my life, that is you !
Today on this auspicious day of your Vyasa pooja we have performed special Narsimaha havan praying Him ardently for your safe travels around the globe.
Hare Krishna - Your eternal servant Radhika Prasad Das
Radhikesa dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to you on this most auspicious day
I often ask Krishna how a lowlife like me, repeatedly gets given opportunities to render up close and personal service to such an exalted soul like you. And when in such association, again I ask Krishna: how am I supposed to maintain steady composure and be attentive to my given service, whilst my life airs are erratically out of control?! Whilst I’ve personally experienced that there’s nothing more satisfying to the heart than knowing that I’ve done you proud, I’m all too familiar with the converse. “Oh Krishna! Will my spiritual master yet again be pleased with my bumbling, foolish efforts?”.
But as I begin to mature and see things in their proper perspective, I thank Krishna for just giving me such service opportunities. As my heart is forever hardened by pride and ego, I continue to pray for further service opportunities to help break down such imperfections. I thank you for those many occasions where I misjudged situations and employed the wrong approach, but regardless, you listened to the language of the heart and dealt with me appropriately. You clearly see my many frailties, but deeply appreciate that I really want to be of use. You accommodate strength and sensitivity side-by-side and its your meek and humble demeanor that opens the doors to experience the sweetness of love.
Thank you for pulling me close and tolerating all aspects of my imitative service.
Your servant,
Radhikesa dasa
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to you on this most auspicious day
I often ask Krishna how a lowlife like me, repeatedly gets given opportunities to render up close and personal service to such an exalted soul like you. And when in such association, again I ask Krishna: how am I supposed to maintain steady composure and be attentive to my given service, whilst my life airs are erratically out of control?! Whilst I’ve personally experienced that there’s nothing more satisfying to the heart than knowing that I’ve done you proud, I’m all too familiar with the converse. “Oh Krishna! Will my spiritual master yet again be pleased with my bumbling, foolish efforts?”.
But as I begin to mature and see things in their proper perspective, I thank Krishna for just giving me such service opportunities. As my heart is forever hardened by pride and ego, I continue to pray for further service opportunities to help break down such imperfections. I thank you for those many occasions where I misjudged situations and employed the wrong approach, but regardless, you listened to the language of the heart and dealt with me appropriately. You clearly see my many frailties, but deeply appreciate that I really want to be of use. You accommodate strength and sensitivity side-by-side and its your meek and humble demeanor that opens the doors to experience the sweetness of love.
Thank you for pulling me close and tolerating all aspects of my imitative service.
Your servant,
Radhikesa dasa
Ramadas das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisance’s,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I read that to be steadily fixed in devotional service I must understand that my creeper of devotional service is a feeble stem and requires the support of another tree to grow. And while growing it requires sufficient protection for it take advantage of the support.
While describing the system of protection for the creeper of devotional service Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu has especially stressed don’t spray it with offenses at the lotus feet of the devotees. If one commits offenses to the Vaishnava’s all his progress, whether decades or months of it will be checked.
Even if one is very advanced, by such offenses, his advancement is all spoiled.
Srila Prabhupada gave the example of Durvasa muni. The displaced Durvasa had to run from the Sudarshana Cakra for a whole year. At last he approached Vishnu but He refused him protection. And to show how destructive offenses to Vaishnava’s are, even the descendants of Yadu (Krishna’s own family) were destroyed due to them. Showing that the Lord cannot tolerate any offenses at the lotus feet of Brahmana’s what to speak of the Vaishnava’s.
Therefore, part of the system of devotional service is protecting it from such offenses.
However, Srila Prabhupada points out that the most grievous type of offense is offenses at the lotus feet of the spiritual master. In trying to chant without offense, this offense is the most grievous, and it’s the first offense; disobedience of the spiritual master and disregarding Vedic literature.
On the other hand, Krishna teaches how to respect The Vaishnava’s by his own behaviour. And he is very pleased with those who offer Him service through the Vaishnava’s.
Actually service is offered through the Spiritual master not directly to the Lord.
First guru-krpa, then Krishna krpa
By serving your instructions we can clean our hearts. And thus enjoy supreme peace and freedom from attachment and be satisfied.
Srila Prabhupada also said “Tulasi seed, that is the example of bhakti seed. Similarly, you have to nurse the bhakti seed by giving all protection, watering daily. So what is your watering process? This watering process. (devotees chant Hare Krishna...)
… You have to become a gardener…
… And pour water. Just like simply sowing the seed is not your business is finished. You have to sow, you have to pour water. So what is that pouring water?
mali hana kare sei bija aropana
sravana-kirtana-jale karaye secana [Cc. Madhya 19.152]
This is the watering, hearing about Krishna, chanting about Krishna. So you take the bhakti-lata-bija from the spiritual master. That is called initiation. And develop it by pouring water of hearing and chanting. Then it will grow. One day it will grow so big that it will penetrate the walls of this universe. It will go to the spiritual world, and gradually go to the Goloka Vrndavana and catch up the lotus feet of Krishna, and then produce its fruits, and you will enjoy by eating the fruits.
… Suppose if you get a seed. If you don't take proper care, water it nicely, then it will not grow; it will be stunned there
You are teaching us all by your example how to be a Krsna conscious gardener.
Your aspiring servant
Ramadas das
Please accept my humble obeisance’s,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I read that to be steadily fixed in devotional service I must understand that my creeper of devotional service is a feeble stem and requires the support of another tree to grow. And while growing it requires sufficient protection for it take advantage of the support.
While describing the system of protection for the creeper of devotional service Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu has especially stressed don’t spray it with offenses at the lotus feet of the devotees. If one commits offenses to the Vaishnava’s all his progress, whether decades or months of it will be checked.
Even if one is very advanced, by such offenses, his advancement is all spoiled.
Srila Prabhupada gave the example of Durvasa muni. The displaced Durvasa had to run from the Sudarshana Cakra for a whole year. At last he approached Vishnu but He refused him protection. And to show how destructive offenses to Vaishnava’s are, even the descendants of Yadu (Krishna’s own family) were destroyed due to them. Showing that the Lord cannot tolerate any offenses at the lotus feet of Brahmana’s what to speak of the Vaishnava’s.
Therefore, part of the system of devotional service is protecting it from such offenses.
However, Srila Prabhupada points out that the most grievous type of offense is offenses at the lotus feet of the spiritual master. In trying to chant without offense, this offense is the most grievous, and it’s the first offense; disobedience of the spiritual master and disregarding Vedic literature.
On the other hand, Krishna teaches how to respect The Vaishnava’s by his own behaviour. And he is very pleased with those who offer Him service through the Vaishnava’s.
Actually service is offered through the Spiritual master not directly to the Lord.
First guru-krpa, then Krishna krpa
By serving your instructions we can clean our hearts. And thus enjoy supreme peace and freedom from attachment and be satisfied.
Srila Prabhupada also said “Tulasi seed, that is the example of bhakti seed. Similarly, you have to nurse the bhakti seed by giving all protection, watering daily. So what is your watering process? This watering process. (devotees chant Hare Krishna...)
… You have to become a gardener…
… And pour water. Just like simply sowing the seed is not your business is finished. You have to sow, you have to pour water. So what is that pouring water?
mali hana kare sei bija aropana
sravana-kirtana-jale karaye secana [Cc. Madhya 19.152]
This is the watering, hearing about Krishna, chanting about Krishna. So you take the bhakti-lata-bija from the spiritual master. That is called initiation. And develop it by pouring water of hearing and chanting. Then it will grow. One day it will grow so big that it will penetrate the walls of this universe. It will go to the spiritual world, and gradually go to the Goloka Vrndavana and catch up the lotus feet of Krishna, and then produce its fruits, and you will enjoy by eating the fruits.
… Suppose if you get a seed. If you don't take proper care, water it nicely, then it will not grow; it will be stunned there
You are teaching us all by your example how to be a Krsna conscious gardener.
Your aspiring servant
Ramadas das
Ranga-Nayaki dd
Dear Guru Maharaj, accept my humble obeisances. All glory's to Srila Prabhupada.
In a day of Your Vyasa-puja, I want to thank You for Your care and patience, understanding and love. Thank You that again and again You explain to us simple truths, that we cann't introduce into our lives. Thank You for carefully transferring to us what was given by Srila Prabhupada. Thank You for teaching by Your own example.
Thank You for showing our true position in this material world. Yes, sometimes it seems sharp and painful, but then we feel relieved, like after operation, when the cause of pain was removed.
Thank You for inspiring to follow the Krishna consciousness. You make this way smooth, illuminate it, put many pointers with the right direction. We just have to follow this way, listen and follow the instructions. You strengthen our faith in the words of Srila Prabhupada, teach how to love him and how to serve him.
Thank You, that I can be a part of ISKCON family. And while I'm at home in the family, nothing bad can happen to me.
Please, let me always be at Yours lotus feet and try at least somehow to be useful in Your service for Srila Prabhupada.
Your eternal servant Ranga-Nayaki dd (Russia, St.Petersburg)
In a day of Your Vyasa-puja, I want to thank You for Your care and patience, understanding and love. Thank You that again and again You explain to us simple truths, that we cann't introduce into our lives. Thank You for carefully transferring to us what was given by Srila Prabhupada. Thank You for teaching by Your own example.
Thank You for showing our true position in this material world. Yes, sometimes it seems sharp and painful, but then we feel relieved, like after operation, when the cause of pain was removed.
Thank You for inspiring to follow the Krishna consciousness. You make this way smooth, illuminate it, put many pointers with the right direction. We just have to follow this way, listen and follow the instructions. You strengthen our faith in the words of Srila Prabhupada, teach how to love him and how to serve him.
Thank You, that I can be a part of ISKCON family. And while I'm at home in the family, nothing bad can happen to me.
Please, let me always be at Yours lotus feet and try at least somehow to be useful in Your service for Srila Prabhupada.
Your eternal servant Ranga-Nayaki dd (Russia, St.Petersburg)
Rashika Prasad Das
Hare Krishna Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my respectful obeisances on this glorious day of your vyasa pooja. This is the best day of the year to ponder on my good fortune to have met you on this planet- in this life.
This year I was constantly meditating about something I had read on Guru’s mercy. The article said that Guru is more merciful than one’s own mother. I never had thought in this perspective before, and when I deeply considered this thought and meditated for a few days I realised, “actually its true”.
Because mother may give defence skills for a few years in the early childhood, and takes care of our needs until we are grown up, perhaps teenagers. But Gurudev, you have showed an eternal path back to Krishna and are prepared to deliver us from this everlasting ignorance. Particularly considering my depth of ignorance, this can become some task.
My this body is a fully fledged crop of sins, and the inclination towards the bodily platform of life is my strongest fears. I was not even sure if I will ever be successful in a spiritual path, but with you as a captain of my boat I feel confident, yes this can happen. Even my kind of ignorance can be delivered with your mercy.
SB 11.20.17
nṛ-deham ādyaṁ sulabhaṁ sudurlabhaṁ
plavaṁ sukalpaṁ guru-karṇadhāram
mayānukūlena nabhasvateritaṁ
pumān bhavābdhiṁ na taret sa ātma-hā
When one wants to cross a large ocean, he requires a strong boat. It is said that this human form of life is a good boat by which one can cross the ocean of nescience. In the human form of life one can obtain the guidance of a good navigator, the spiritual master. One also gets a favorable wind by the mercy of Kṛṣṇa, and that wind is the instructions of Kṛṣṇa. The human body is the boat, the instructions of Lord Kṛṣṇa are the favorable winds, and the spiritual master is the navigator. The spiritual master knows well how to adjust the sails to catch the winds favorably and steer the boat to its destination. If, however, one does not take advantage of this opportunity, one wastes the human form of life. Wasting time and life in this way is the same as committing suicide. - Very strong !!
Then I finally realised, yes Gurudev is the most merciful, even more merciful than one’s own mother. If there is a hero in my life, that is You !
Hare Krishna
Your eternal servant
Radhika Prasad Das - Sydney
Please accept my respectful obeisances on this glorious day of your vyasa pooja. This is the best day of the year to ponder on my good fortune to have met you on this planet- in this life.
This year I was constantly meditating about something I had read on Guru’s mercy. The article said that Guru is more merciful than one’s own mother. I never had thought in this perspective before, and when I deeply considered this thought and meditated for a few days I realised, “actually its true”.
Because mother may give defence skills for a few years in the early childhood, and takes care of our needs until we are grown up, perhaps teenagers. But Gurudev, you have showed an eternal path back to Krishna and are prepared to deliver us from this everlasting ignorance. Particularly considering my depth of ignorance, this can become some task.
My this body is a fully fledged crop of sins, and the inclination towards the bodily platform of life is my strongest fears. I was not even sure if I will ever be successful in a spiritual path, but with you as a captain of my boat I feel confident, yes this can happen. Even my kind of ignorance can be delivered with your mercy.
SB 11.20.17
nṛ-deham ādyaṁ sulabhaṁ sudurlabhaṁ
plavaṁ sukalpaṁ guru-karṇadhāram
mayānukūlena nabhasvateritaṁ
pumān bhavābdhiṁ na taret sa ātma-hā
When one wants to cross a large ocean, he requires a strong boat. It is said that this human form of life is a good boat by which one can cross the ocean of nescience. In the human form of life one can obtain the guidance of a good navigator, the spiritual master. One also gets a favorable wind by the mercy of Kṛṣṇa, and that wind is the instructions of Kṛṣṇa. The human body is the boat, the instructions of Lord Kṛṣṇa are the favorable winds, and the spiritual master is the navigator. The spiritual master knows well how to adjust the sails to catch the winds favorably and steer the boat to its destination. If, however, one does not take advantage of this opportunity, one wastes the human form of life. Wasting time and life in this way is the same as committing suicide. - Very strong !!
Then I finally realised, yes Gurudev is the most merciful, even more merciful than one’s own mother. If there is a hero in my life, that is You !
Hare Krishna
Your eternal servant
Radhika Prasad Das - Sydney
Riva
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupda and your lotus feet.
<i>Nama om visnu-padaya krsna-presthaya bhutale
srimate devamrita-svamin itinamine</i>
I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Holiness Devamrita Swami, who is very dear to Lord Krishna, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.
<i>Pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya savre ca te namah</i>
Obeisances unto you who have all the qualities of unique skills in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
On this very auspicious day of your appearance, I would like to express my gratitude to the Lord for having sent you on this planet to help the souls rotting in this material world.
I am still not aware of your glories, but as much as I have heard from your disciples, I feel I am very fortunate to be under your shelter. It is said in Guru Vandana:
<i>“Attachment to his lotus feet is the best way to make spiritual advancement. His mercy fulfills all desires for spiritual perfection.He who has given us the gift of transcendental vision is our lord, birth after birth. It is by his mercy that divine knowledge is revealed within our hearts, bestowing pure love for Krishna and destroying ignorance.“</i>
Your disciples are living examples of your mercy. Your mercy can transform anyone. I always thought it is just knowledge which is important, but now i have realized that we cannot realize Krsna simply by knowledge, we need mercy. I always wondered what do they mean with the word -”causeless mercy”, but now i can understand. I really wish to develop an attachment to your lotus feet so that I can also develop a little transcendental vision.
I never thought I would be able to be a part of such a community which is so spiritually rich. I am eternally indebted to you. The support system that you have created for the devotees to grow here is impeccable. As per your teachings, everyone here is so focused on their daily practice.
I beg for your mercy so that i am able to assist your servant’s servant in helping you propagating Lord Chaitanya’s mercy and make most of the opportunity that you have given me.
Your aspiring servant,
Riva
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupda and your lotus feet.
<i>Nama om visnu-padaya krsna-presthaya bhutale
srimate devamrita-svamin itinamine</i>
I offer my respectful obeisances unto His Holiness Devamrita Swami, who is very dear to Lord Krishna, having taken shelter at His lotus feet.
<i>Pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya savre ca te namah</i>
Obeisances unto you who have all the qualities of unique skills in preaching, competence in Vaisnava dealings, selflessness and compassion.
On this very auspicious day of your appearance, I would like to express my gratitude to the Lord for having sent you on this planet to help the souls rotting in this material world.
I am still not aware of your glories, but as much as I have heard from your disciples, I feel I am very fortunate to be under your shelter. It is said in Guru Vandana:
<i>“Attachment to his lotus feet is the best way to make spiritual advancement. His mercy fulfills all desires for spiritual perfection.He who has given us the gift of transcendental vision is our lord, birth after birth. It is by his mercy that divine knowledge is revealed within our hearts, bestowing pure love for Krishna and destroying ignorance.“</i>
Your disciples are living examples of your mercy. Your mercy can transform anyone. I always thought it is just knowledge which is important, but now i have realized that we cannot realize Krsna simply by knowledge, we need mercy. I always wondered what do they mean with the word -”causeless mercy”, but now i can understand. I really wish to develop an attachment to your lotus feet so that I can also develop a little transcendental vision.
I never thought I would be able to be a part of such a community which is so spiritually rich. I am eternally indebted to you. The support system that you have created for the devotees to grow here is impeccable. As per your teachings, everyone here is so focused on their daily practice.
I beg for your mercy so that i am able to assist your servant’s servant in helping you propagating Lord Chaitanya’s mercy and make most of the opportunity that you have given me.
Your aspiring servant,
Riva
Rudrarama Pandit Das
nama om vishnu-padaya
krishna-presthaya bhu tale
srimate devamrita
svamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca ten amah
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada and onto the dust of your lotus feet
On Friday night, on my way home I saw group of young people talking on street and they were on their way heading to party scene of pubs and night clubs.
“Enjoy this moment!”
“Get real!”
“Forget about things!”
“Get drunk!”
I could hear these famous kali yuga mantras.
Seeing many people seemed to be enjoying their lives, your talk about “Life style options in the first world” came across in my mind.
‘Work’ ‘Buy’ ‘Consume’ ‘Die’
What a world we stepped in! Are people seeking for happiness in this simple cycle?
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp3.png"/>
Are even these activities give us any happiness?
According to Southern Cross New Zealand health research, there are so many people suffering from “Work” and people spend more time and money to deal with these issues.
As per the data about 1 in 3 people simply suffering from work.
Are there any happiness at work?
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp2.png"/>
According to PwC consumer research so many people have frustration from “Buy” and “Consume”.
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp4.png"/>
According to the data about 4 out of 5 people complained about their doctor and more than half the people complain about pharmacy.
I personally enjoy going shopping and I thought that “Buy” and “Consume” is fun things to do but so many issues are behind these activities.
Are we really enjoying these activities?
What to say about “Die”?
Who enjoy this activity??
In the talk you explained we may not live in real world, very well live in matrics of illusion and get out of this temporary illusion and find out the real world which is based on spiritual identity as part of supreme spiritual identity. You further explained there is a relationship between the two. This relationship is called “Bhakti”, the love supreme and maintaining this “Bhakti” is destiny of our life.
Destiny of our life
When I first came across to Krishna consciousness I asked you a question.
“What is the purpose of life?”
You answered: “Read bhagavad gita and chant the maha mantra. You are chanting 4 rounds a day now. You increases 1 round every week. When I come back in 12 weeks, you are chanting 16 rounds. Then you will find out about the real purpose of life.”
I never forget this as you are the first and only person taught me the meaning and purpose of life.
I humbly would like to apologise you for not having made any progress towards goal of human form of life over years, especially disappoint you last few years. But you never give me up. Rather you personally encourage me so much through personally talked to me, texted me, emailed me and phoned me. I never experienced someone who supported me personally. Thank you.
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp5.png"/>
Due to I mentioned in my homage in 2015 about my short term target of increasing this “Bhakti” by 2020, please allow me to serve you and your desciples more, please encourage me to become better servant, please correct me more to avoid making any more offence.
Fiinally, I promise you that I will make my effort to please you and your disciples as much as possible. This is something I can only do now and forever to repay you debt which never be able to pay.
Your servant of your servant
Rudrarama Pandit Das
krishna-presthaya bhu tale
srimate devamrita
svamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca ten amah
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances
All Glories to Srila Prabhupada and onto the dust of your lotus feet
On Friday night, on my way home I saw group of young people talking on street and they were on their way heading to party scene of pubs and night clubs.
“Enjoy this moment!”
“Get real!”
“Forget about things!”
“Get drunk!”
I could hear these famous kali yuga mantras.
Seeing many people seemed to be enjoying their lives, your talk about “Life style options in the first world” came across in my mind.
‘Work’ ‘Buy’ ‘Consume’ ‘Die’
What a world we stepped in! Are people seeking for happiness in this simple cycle?
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp3.png"/>
Are even these activities give us any happiness?
According to Southern Cross New Zealand health research, there are so many people suffering from “Work” and people spend more time and money to deal with these issues.
As per the data about 1 in 3 people simply suffering from work.
Are there any happiness at work?
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp2.png"/>
According to PwC consumer research so many people have frustration from “Buy” and “Consume”.
<img src="/assets/epub/rrp4.png"/>
According to the data about 4 out of 5 people complained about their doctor and more than half the people complain about pharmacy.
I personally enjoy going shopping and I thought that “Buy” and “Consume” is fun things to do but so many issues are behind these activities.
Are we really enjoying these activities?
What to say about “Die”?
Who enjoy this activity??
In the talk you explained we may not live in real world, very well live in matrics of illusion and get out of this temporary illusion and find out the real world which is based on spiritual identity as part of supreme spiritual identity. You further explained there is a relationship between the two. This relationship is called “Bhakti”, the love supreme and maintaining this “Bhakti” is destiny of our life.
Destiny of our life
When I first came across to Krishna consciousness I asked you a question.
“What is the purpose of life?”
You answered: “Read bhagavad gita and chant the maha mantra. You are chanting 4 rounds a day now. You increases 1 round every week. When I come back in 12 weeks, you are chanting 16 rounds. Then you will find out about the real purpose of life.”
I never forget this as you are the first and only person taught me the meaning and purpose of life.
I humbly would like to apologise you for not having made any progress towards goal of human form of life over years, especially disappoint you last few years. But you never give me up. Rather you personally encourage me so much through personally talked to me, texted me, emailed me and phoned me. I never experienced someone who supported me personally. Thank you.
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Due to I mentioned in my homage in 2015 about my short term target of increasing this “Bhakti” by 2020, please allow me to serve you and your desciples more, please encourage me to become better servant, please correct me more to avoid making any more offence.
Fiinally, I promise you that I will make my effort to please you and your disciples as much as possible. This is something I can only do now and forever to repay you debt which never be able to pay.
Your servant of your servant
Rudrarama Pandit Das
Sachi Dulal das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! All glories to you on this most auspicious occasion.
As your pranam mantra indicates, you are supremely expert at outreach. Your supreme expertise is revealed when we analyze your efforts to sustain the society founded by your spiritual master: ISKCON.
History suggests that a spiritual movement thrives when it is populated by five categories of personnel. Of course, as is generally the case with persons, these categories often overlap in practice, but for the sake of our analysis it will be useful to separate them.
1. Active Recruiters: Missionaries who dedicate their lives to bringing new members into the movement.
2. Culture Shapers: Intellectuals who try to establish the movement’s ideological view within the cultural mainstream and challenge opposing ideological views.
3. Goodwill Builders: Those who interface with the powerful, elite and influential people of society, and try to garner their support for the movement.
4. Economic Shakers: They generate wealth and give it to the movement.
5. Social Stabilizers: Those who work to build stable social structures within the movement.
Amazingly enough, we see that you, Gurumaharaj, operate in all five categories.
As an active recruiter, you have brought and continue to tirelessly bring many conditioned souls to Srila Prabhupada’s movement. Most notably you have set up innovative and relevant urban outreach hubs, which, for more than twenty years, have attracted many young people to serve Srila Prabhupada’s movement.
As a culture shaper, you have written brilliantly researched books like Searching for Vedic India and Hiding in Unnatural Happiness. These books have influenced many people to take Vedic wisdom seriously and some have even become dedicated bhakti practitioners due to reading these books.
As an international speaker and a public figure for ISKCON, you meet and charm many influential people.
As a sannyasi, you don’t actively generate wealth. But your purity and potency inspires many persons to offer their wealth to you because they know you will use it solely for Krishna’s service. A prominent example is one of your disciples who gave you a million dollars that you redirected to the coffers of the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.
Finally, as a social stabilizer, you are dedicated to creating a stable brahmachari and grihastha ashram. To this end, in New Zealand, your home base, you have set up a sober system not only for those who want to enter the brahmachari ashram but also for those who wish to enter the grihastha ashram.
This brief analysis only gives a tiny glimpse into the true extent of your magnanimous personality. Please accept this meagre attempt to glorify you and thank you for allowing me to serve you in some small way.
Your aspiring servant,
Sachi Dulal das.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! All glories to you on this most auspicious occasion.
As your pranam mantra indicates, you are supremely expert at outreach. Your supreme expertise is revealed when we analyze your efforts to sustain the society founded by your spiritual master: ISKCON.
History suggests that a spiritual movement thrives when it is populated by five categories of personnel. Of course, as is generally the case with persons, these categories often overlap in practice, but for the sake of our analysis it will be useful to separate them.
1. Active Recruiters: Missionaries who dedicate their lives to bringing new members into the movement.
2. Culture Shapers: Intellectuals who try to establish the movement’s ideological view within the cultural mainstream and challenge opposing ideological views.
3. Goodwill Builders: Those who interface with the powerful, elite and influential people of society, and try to garner their support for the movement.
4. Economic Shakers: They generate wealth and give it to the movement.
5. Social Stabilizers: Those who work to build stable social structures within the movement.
Amazingly enough, we see that you, Gurumaharaj, operate in all five categories.
As an active recruiter, you have brought and continue to tirelessly bring many conditioned souls to Srila Prabhupada’s movement. Most notably you have set up innovative and relevant urban outreach hubs, which, for more than twenty years, have attracted many young people to serve Srila Prabhupada’s movement.
As a culture shaper, you have written brilliantly researched books like Searching for Vedic India and Hiding in Unnatural Happiness. These books have influenced many people to take Vedic wisdom seriously and some have even become dedicated bhakti practitioners due to reading these books.
As an international speaker and a public figure for ISKCON, you meet and charm many influential people.
As a sannyasi, you don’t actively generate wealth. But your purity and potency inspires many persons to offer their wealth to you because they know you will use it solely for Krishna’s service. A prominent example is one of your disciples who gave you a million dollars that you redirected to the coffers of the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.
Finally, as a social stabilizer, you are dedicated to creating a stable brahmachari and grihastha ashram. To this end, in New Zealand, your home base, you have set up a sober system not only for those who want to enter the brahmachari ashram but also for those who wish to enter the grihastha ashram.
This brief analysis only gives a tiny glimpse into the true extent of your magnanimous personality. Please accept this meagre attempt to glorify you and thank you for allowing me to serve you in some small way.
Your aspiring servant,
Sachi Dulal das.
Sachidevi devi dasi
nama om visnu-padaya
krishna presthaya bhu-tale
srimate devamrita-
svamin iti namine
pracare 'purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dearest Gurudeva,
Please accept my very humble obeisances.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupada, and all glories to you on this unlimitedly auspicious day of your gracious appearance!
Every year on this day I am struck motionless with the extent of your care.
It is just a simple fact that there is nothing that I have that you have not provided.
I came to you, dropped my mess of a life at your feet, and you kindly threw it all into the fire of sankirtana.
I remember in one of our first meetings, we were discussing my moving into the ashram with yourself and Mangal-arti, and Mangal-arti and I were concerned about my father’s reaction. You very sternly took charge of me straight away, and said, “She’s Lord Caitanya’s servant, not her father’s dog.”
From that moment on, I have never considered it even a slight possibility that I could ever be outside of the association of devotees. You injected my heart with the absolutely firm conviction that there is nothing to be gained outside of devotional service - outside of your care.
16 years old, no family, no shelter, no care, no knowledge - leading a life steeped in the thick slimy substance that are the material modes of passion and ignorance, I came running from a terrible background, and somehow or other I find myself here, in Philadelphia, serving at the Mantra Lounge alongside your stalwart disciples. And you’ve given me so much more to cling to than a meagre sigh of relief!
I am somehow part of a beautiful spiritual family that seems to be ever-increasing; I have full protection under your expert, complete, and perfect system of care, which is manifesting in my life as Mangal-arti devi dasi’s undeviating guidance and affection; I live in a spiritually surcharged atmosphere, alive with bright-faced, enthusiastic, serious devotees at every turn; I am studying the most ancient, rich, vast, and inconceivably flawless scriptures known not only to man, but to all living entities throughout the three worlds - what more could one possibly want in life?
I say all this not to lament my pathetic life before coming under your shelter, but to celebrate your inconceivable potency in transforming the hearts of those rotting in material existence.
I have nothing to ask you for but more service, more opportunity for surrender, and more instruction, so that perhaps you might one day utilize me as a sharp instrument in your lotus hands.
I also wanted to say that I am indescribably grateful to you for showering us here in Philly with so much opportunity for such high-concentration sacrifice in assisting you in your service to Śrīla Prabhupada. Even saying sacrifice doesn't do justice to what you give. Sacrifice means you are giving something up, but when there is love, there is complete enthusiasm to do anything. In simpler terms: to an outsider, perhaps what we're doing is sacrifice, but to me, this service to you is the only thing I live for and cling to. I can't put into words how fortunate I feel to have had this past two years, and more specifically this past six months to go on this mission in service to your lotus feet. I don't feel I deserve to have participated in this, or to continue participating, but of course that is the nature of mercy, and I am grateful that you are so magnanimous in your distribution of such mercy. I simply pray I can develop my spiritual greed for such undiluted mercy.
I was reflecting on the potency of your association. We've seen all of the Mantra Lounge regulars transforming by dint of your presence, encouragement, enthusiasm and personal care and instruction. I remember how it feels to have no shelter, to know no care, and I know these people have suffered so much. As Śrīla Prabhupada has remarked, it is a known fact that people are suffering for want of Krishna consciousness. But you so naturally kindle this ever-existent bhakti in the hearts of those approaching this perfect process of love of God.
We have seen the enthusiasm, devotion, and dedication of persons who have been coming around flourish so much, and we have seen their consciousness become gradually imbued with such sweetness and sincerity. It is bewildering at first glance, but taking into consideration the fact that they are clinging to your words and your association, it all makes sense. I know this is just what you do. The same way you are carrying me to Krishna, so you are carrying these wonderful devotees to the Supreme Lord’s shelter. I am so grateful for and in awe of your service.
This last visit, when we had our humble gathering at Mantra Lounge here in Philly, you thanked us, Gurudeva, for our service and sacrifice, and told that “They came for you all!”, but the real essence pours out of these people’s hearts when they are finally touched by the cintamani of your divine association.
Besides the newcomers, I have also seen some transformation in my own heart. I feel very inadequate in this way, because I feel I am accruing so much spiritual debt that I will never be able to repay even if I spent 24 hours a day for the rest of my life trying to do so. This is still my plan - as you asked, I will make it my career - but I know anything I do will never be on any equal platform to the floods of mercy you are showering us all with.
I must say I am feeling a great deal of withdrawal, knowing that we will not be graced with your vapuh association for a while longer. But since your last visit, I have been meditating on your words; your guidance and instruction which are my only hope, and my life air.
I want to beg you for your blessings that I might be able to constantly meditate on this wonderful taste that comes from such a high concentration of dedicated, focalized service, which I know is not even a drop in the ocean of service you’ve rendered to Srila Prabhupada, but is the extent to which I have been able to serve thus far.
I also beg you might help me to not be a mere sentimentalist, but to actually take your instructions and the meaning of my relationship to you, as a disciple, to heart.
I simply pray that I might be able to closely follow and never stray from your instructions; to become a servant of the Vaishnavas, to hear the holy name, to get others to chant the holy name with enthusiasm, to take care of my health, and to desperately pray to Sri Sri Radha-Damodara and the Panca-tattva to never see service with mundane eyes.
Thank you for leading by example, and thank you for allowing us to constantly watch, hear, and hope to learn.
Thank you for allowing me to do some meagre services for you, Gurudeva. Though insufficient and inadequate you very kindly have accepted whatever tiny service I have had the opportunity to offer you.
I am forever in your debt, and I will be here trying to do something, though very insignificant, for the sake of your service, taking your instructions to heart and meditating on and taking Mangal-arti’s guidance on how to be able to follow and fulfill them.
I know you very kindly will never let me go anywhere, so I just pray that I have no muscle to move according to anything except your instruction and desire. I simply pray that my mind clings tighter and tighter to your words and your service. I pray my mind has no strength to travel anywhere but to thoughts of your service and instructions.
Thank you for allowing me the matchless gift of your precious, precious lotus feet.
Your aspiring servant, daughter, and humble beggar,
Sachidevi dd
krishna presthaya bhu-tale
srimate devamrita-
svamin iti namine
pracare 'purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dearest Gurudeva,
Please accept my very humble obeisances.
All glories to Śrīla Prabhupada, and all glories to you on this unlimitedly auspicious day of your gracious appearance!
Every year on this day I am struck motionless with the extent of your care.
It is just a simple fact that there is nothing that I have that you have not provided.
I came to you, dropped my mess of a life at your feet, and you kindly threw it all into the fire of sankirtana.
I remember in one of our first meetings, we were discussing my moving into the ashram with yourself and Mangal-arti, and Mangal-arti and I were concerned about my father’s reaction. You very sternly took charge of me straight away, and said, “She’s Lord Caitanya’s servant, not her father’s dog.”
From that moment on, I have never considered it even a slight possibility that I could ever be outside of the association of devotees. You injected my heart with the absolutely firm conviction that there is nothing to be gained outside of devotional service - outside of your care.
16 years old, no family, no shelter, no care, no knowledge - leading a life steeped in the thick slimy substance that are the material modes of passion and ignorance, I came running from a terrible background, and somehow or other I find myself here, in Philadelphia, serving at the Mantra Lounge alongside your stalwart disciples. And you’ve given me so much more to cling to than a meagre sigh of relief!
I am somehow part of a beautiful spiritual family that seems to be ever-increasing; I have full protection under your expert, complete, and perfect system of care, which is manifesting in my life as Mangal-arti devi dasi’s undeviating guidance and affection; I live in a spiritually surcharged atmosphere, alive with bright-faced, enthusiastic, serious devotees at every turn; I am studying the most ancient, rich, vast, and inconceivably flawless scriptures known not only to man, but to all living entities throughout the three worlds - what more could one possibly want in life?
I say all this not to lament my pathetic life before coming under your shelter, but to celebrate your inconceivable potency in transforming the hearts of those rotting in material existence.
I have nothing to ask you for but more service, more opportunity for surrender, and more instruction, so that perhaps you might one day utilize me as a sharp instrument in your lotus hands.
I also wanted to say that I am indescribably grateful to you for showering us here in Philly with so much opportunity for such high-concentration sacrifice in assisting you in your service to Śrīla Prabhupada. Even saying sacrifice doesn't do justice to what you give. Sacrifice means you are giving something up, but when there is love, there is complete enthusiasm to do anything. In simpler terms: to an outsider, perhaps what we're doing is sacrifice, but to me, this service to you is the only thing I live for and cling to. I can't put into words how fortunate I feel to have had this past two years, and more specifically this past six months to go on this mission in service to your lotus feet. I don't feel I deserve to have participated in this, or to continue participating, but of course that is the nature of mercy, and I am grateful that you are so magnanimous in your distribution of such mercy. I simply pray I can develop my spiritual greed for such undiluted mercy.
I was reflecting on the potency of your association. We've seen all of the Mantra Lounge regulars transforming by dint of your presence, encouragement, enthusiasm and personal care and instruction. I remember how it feels to have no shelter, to know no care, and I know these people have suffered so much. As Śrīla Prabhupada has remarked, it is a known fact that people are suffering for want of Krishna consciousness. But you so naturally kindle this ever-existent bhakti in the hearts of those approaching this perfect process of love of God.
We have seen the enthusiasm, devotion, and dedication of persons who have been coming around flourish so much, and we have seen their consciousness become gradually imbued with such sweetness and sincerity. It is bewildering at first glance, but taking into consideration the fact that they are clinging to your words and your association, it all makes sense. I know this is just what you do. The same way you are carrying me to Krishna, so you are carrying these wonderful devotees to the Supreme Lord’s shelter. I am so grateful for and in awe of your service.
This last visit, when we had our humble gathering at Mantra Lounge here in Philly, you thanked us, Gurudeva, for our service and sacrifice, and told that “They came for you all!”, but the real essence pours out of these people’s hearts when they are finally touched by the cintamani of your divine association.
Besides the newcomers, I have also seen some transformation in my own heart. I feel very inadequate in this way, because I feel I am accruing so much spiritual debt that I will never be able to repay even if I spent 24 hours a day for the rest of my life trying to do so. This is still my plan - as you asked, I will make it my career - but I know anything I do will never be on any equal platform to the floods of mercy you are showering us all with.
I must say I am feeling a great deal of withdrawal, knowing that we will not be graced with your vapuh association for a while longer. But since your last visit, I have been meditating on your words; your guidance and instruction which are my only hope, and my life air.
I want to beg you for your blessings that I might be able to constantly meditate on this wonderful taste that comes from such a high concentration of dedicated, focalized service, which I know is not even a drop in the ocean of service you’ve rendered to Srila Prabhupada, but is the extent to which I have been able to serve thus far.
I also beg you might help me to not be a mere sentimentalist, but to actually take your instructions and the meaning of my relationship to you, as a disciple, to heart.
I simply pray that I might be able to closely follow and never stray from your instructions; to become a servant of the Vaishnavas, to hear the holy name, to get others to chant the holy name with enthusiasm, to take care of my health, and to desperately pray to Sri Sri Radha-Damodara and the Panca-tattva to never see service with mundane eyes.
Thank you for leading by example, and thank you for allowing us to constantly watch, hear, and hope to learn.
Thank you for allowing me to do some meagre services for you, Gurudeva. Though insufficient and inadequate you very kindly have accepted whatever tiny service I have had the opportunity to offer you.
I am forever in your debt, and I will be here trying to do something, though very insignificant, for the sake of your service, taking your instructions to heart and meditating on and taking Mangal-arti’s guidance on how to be able to follow and fulfill them.
I know you very kindly will never let me go anywhere, so I just pray that I have no muscle to move according to anything except your instruction and desire. I simply pray that my mind clings tighter and tighter to your words and your service. I pray my mind has no strength to travel anywhere but to thoughts of your service and instructions.
Thank you for allowing me the matchless gift of your precious, precious lotus feet.
Your aspiring servant, daughter, and humble beggar,
Sachidevi dd
Sadhu-marga das
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Krishna, the extremely beautiful cowherd boy, is very difficult to attain. He does not give Himself very easily. He expands Himself every where, everything is expansion of His energies and everything is resting on Him. But His original form of Shyamsundar in Goloka Vrindavan is impossible to touch with material consciousness. Vrajendra-nandana Sri Krishna gives Himself only those who have pure devotion to Him.
Krishna is most purest valuable gem, He is the real wealth, He is the absolute auspiciousness, peace and happiness. Without Him, there is only darkness and ignorance. Somebody may have all the desirable things of this world, but if he does not have Krishna he is poor and his life is useless.
A person may be religious and follow his duties of varna and ashrama nicely. He may be regulated and follow his sadhana, vratas and pujas in wonderful way. He may be properly initiated into bona fide sampradaya, chant his mantras, chant prescribed number of the Holy Name and study the instructions given by the Acaryas. But still that may not be enough for him to develop his bhakti to the degree that he could attain his goal, Krishna. It may be that he haven’t got any bhakti at all.
What is missing? What is the proper medicine for this terrible disease?
It is, the association of paramahamsa-bhaktas. Pure devotees of the Lord carry with love in their hearts Sri Krishna where ever they go. In their association, if the neophytes have sufficient faith, appreciation and service attitude, they can become affected by the bhakti of pure devotees and also attain Krishna.
Lord Shiva knows this very well. He says (SB 12.10.6 - 7)
“Surely this saintly Brahmana does not desire any benediction, not even liberation itself, for he has attained pure devotional service unto the inexhaustible Personality of Godhead.
Still, my dear Bhavani, let us talk with this saintly personality. After all, association with saintly devotees is man`s highest achievement”
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura knows this extremely well (Ohe! Vaisnava Thakura, verse 4)
“Krishna is yours. You are able to give him to me, for such is your power. I am indeed wretched and simply run after you, crying KRISHNA KRISHNA!”
Our Srila Prabhupada also confirmed this (letter to Govardhana das 25th December 1969)
“……this association with devotees of Krishna is recommended by Lord Chaitanya Himself as the most important factor for developing Krishna consciousness. This is because our dormant love for Krishna is covered up by the material contamination , but it is quickly aroused when the association of a pure devotee is there……..”
Hankering to become a little particle of dust on your lotus feet.
Sadhu-marga das
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Krishna, the extremely beautiful cowherd boy, is very difficult to attain. He does not give Himself very easily. He expands Himself every where, everything is expansion of His energies and everything is resting on Him. But His original form of Shyamsundar in Goloka Vrindavan is impossible to touch with material consciousness. Vrajendra-nandana Sri Krishna gives Himself only those who have pure devotion to Him.
Krishna is most purest valuable gem, He is the real wealth, He is the absolute auspiciousness, peace and happiness. Without Him, there is only darkness and ignorance. Somebody may have all the desirable things of this world, but if he does not have Krishna he is poor and his life is useless.
A person may be religious and follow his duties of varna and ashrama nicely. He may be regulated and follow his sadhana, vratas and pujas in wonderful way. He may be properly initiated into bona fide sampradaya, chant his mantras, chant prescribed number of the Holy Name and study the instructions given by the Acaryas. But still that may not be enough for him to develop his bhakti to the degree that he could attain his goal, Krishna. It may be that he haven’t got any bhakti at all.
What is missing? What is the proper medicine for this terrible disease?
It is, the association of paramahamsa-bhaktas. Pure devotees of the Lord carry with love in their hearts Sri Krishna where ever they go. In their association, if the neophytes have sufficient faith, appreciation and service attitude, they can become affected by the bhakti of pure devotees and also attain Krishna.
Lord Shiva knows this very well. He says (SB 12.10.6 - 7)
“Surely this saintly Brahmana does not desire any benediction, not even liberation itself, for he has attained pure devotional service unto the inexhaustible Personality of Godhead.
Still, my dear Bhavani, let us talk with this saintly personality. After all, association with saintly devotees is man`s highest achievement”
Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura knows this extremely well (Ohe! Vaisnava Thakura, verse 4)
“Krishna is yours. You are able to give him to me, for such is your power. I am indeed wretched and simply run after you, crying KRISHNA KRISHNA!”
Our Srila Prabhupada also confirmed this (letter to Govardhana das 25th December 1969)
“……this association with devotees of Krishna is recommended by Lord Chaitanya Himself as the most important factor for developing Krishna consciousness. This is because our dormant love for Krishna is covered up by the material contamination , but it is quickly aroused when the association of a pure devotee is there……..”
Hankering to become a little particle of dust on your lotus feet.
Sadhu-marga das
Sammohini devi dasi
Nama om visnu-padaya Krsna presthaya bhutale
Srimate devamrta swamin iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinitah
Paratatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te nama
Dear Guru Maharaja
Every year when is your Vyasa Puja the first thing it comes to my mind is “The Loft” in New Zealand.
Why? Because this special place was the root of my spiritual life, dedication to devotional service and it was the place where I met you first.
First experiences and impressions in my life touch deep my heart and stay in my mind.
The Loft is the house of opportunities you had open for everyone but especially for ladies to live and grow spiritually and have a transformation in life.
I couldn’t believe in this special place called “The Loft” it was possible to study about the Soul, about spiritual development and get food and place to live and stay for free. It was such an opportunity I couldn’t resist to accept and join it. I always thought I should pay for all I am getting here.
After a week visiting “The Loft” I met you Gurudeva who from day one gave me instructions and gave me opportunities.
Thank you for changing my life and be an inspiration.
Thank you for giving me Devotional Service. It was not easy to find this jewel and I am always trying to hold it tied and not let it go.
All glories to you and your services to Prabhupada and Lord Krishna.
Your eternal servant
Sammohini.dd
Srimate devamrta swamin iti namine
Pracare purva daksyam ca bhaktacara pravinitah
Paratatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te nama
Dear Guru Maharaja
Every year when is your Vyasa Puja the first thing it comes to my mind is “The Loft” in New Zealand.
Why? Because this special place was the root of my spiritual life, dedication to devotional service and it was the place where I met you first.
First experiences and impressions in my life touch deep my heart and stay in my mind.
The Loft is the house of opportunities you had open for everyone but especially for ladies to live and grow spiritually and have a transformation in life.
I couldn’t believe in this special place called “The Loft” it was possible to study about the Soul, about spiritual development and get food and place to live and stay for free. It was such an opportunity I couldn’t resist to accept and join it. I always thought I should pay for all I am getting here.
After a week visiting “The Loft” I met you Gurudeva who from day one gave me instructions and gave me opportunities.
Thank you for changing my life and be an inspiration.
Thank you for giving me Devotional Service. It was not easy to find this jewel and I am always trying to hold it tied and not let it go.
All glories to you and your services to Prabhupada and Lord Krishna.
Your eternal servant
Sammohini.dd
Satyasaar Devi Dasi
nama oṁ viṣṇu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre pūrva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
nama oṁ viṣṇu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate bhaktivedānta swāmin iti nāmine
namaste sarasvate deve gaura vani pracarine
nirvisesa sunyavadi pascatya desa tarine
Respected Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet. All glories to your divine grace. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
It is my great opportunity to glorify your divine grace on the auspicious occasion of Vyas Puja celebration - 2017. Your divine grace is the ocean of mercy. I need your blessings to accomplish all you desire from me. On this auspicious day my sincere hope and prayer is to be able to remember your instructions, guidance and direction in every aspect of my devotional service.
I owe my sincere gratitude to you for blessing me and all my family members and ever since you stepped in our lives all our obstacles and troubles seem to be frivolous. Hearing your brilliant classes gives a lot of strength. They are so interactive that we feel your presence especially the talk on War and Peace where you were teaching us to find peace with us. It is of course the spiritual strength that you give us to push on and on. Your vision is unique, broad and ever so increasing. Your guidance has proved valuable to students and professionals seeking to balance their spiritual and professional life.
Your transit visit in Noida Temple is a blessing in disguise. Your association gives us spiritual joy.
Guru Maharaj, please forgive me for my offences committed knowingly or unknowingly in my trying to serve you and all the vaishnavas. Please grant me the wisdom to deal with the challenges of material life. Give me the desire and taste to read and study Bhagavatam regularly. Bestow upon me the hankering to hear my japa with real attention. I owe my sincere gratitude to you for personally taking care of my son Bhaktisar Das at Brahmachari ashram in New Zealand. Thank you Gurudev for your causeless mercy.
Your humble servant
Satyasaar Devi Dasi
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre pūrva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ
nama oṁ viṣṇu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate bhaktivedānta swāmin iti nāmine
namaste sarasvate deve gaura vani pracarine
nirvisesa sunyavadi pascatya desa tarine
Respected Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet. All glories to your divine grace. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
It is my great opportunity to glorify your divine grace on the auspicious occasion of Vyas Puja celebration - 2017. Your divine grace is the ocean of mercy. I need your blessings to accomplish all you desire from me. On this auspicious day my sincere hope and prayer is to be able to remember your instructions, guidance and direction in every aspect of my devotional service.
I owe my sincere gratitude to you for blessing me and all my family members and ever since you stepped in our lives all our obstacles and troubles seem to be frivolous. Hearing your brilliant classes gives a lot of strength. They are so interactive that we feel your presence especially the talk on War and Peace where you were teaching us to find peace with us. It is of course the spiritual strength that you give us to push on and on. Your vision is unique, broad and ever so increasing. Your guidance has proved valuable to students and professionals seeking to balance their spiritual and professional life.
Your transit visit in Noida Temple is a blessing in disguise. Your association gives us spiritual joy.
Guru Maharaj, please forgive me for my offences committed knowingly or unknowingly in my trying to serve you and all the vaishnavas. Please grant me the wisdom to deal with the challenges of material life. Give me the desire and taste to read and study Bhagavatam regularly. Bestow upon me the hankering to hear my japa with real attention. I owe my sincere gratitude to you for personally taking care of my son Bhaktisar Das at Brahmachari ashram in New Zealand. Thank you Gurudev for your causeless mercy.
Your humble servant
Satyasaar Devi Dasi
Saurabh deep singh
Respected Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisance in the dust of your lotus feet,on the most auspicious day of your appearance.
All glories to Sri Sri Krishna Balaram.
All glories to Srila prabhupada.
All glories to you.
Wish you a happy appearance day,
This is my humble offering to your grace on this auspicious day of your holy appearance.
I deeply thank lord Radha Krishna for letting you appear on this very day on earth as your grace has done many great and extra ordinary services for your beloved Srila Prabhupada.
Your lectures smash through gross impersonlist speculation realising how blinded I am by the darkness of material nature. By the medium of contemporary topics,you present Lord Krishna, the supreme personality of Godhead. Your kirtan is amazing and it touches the inner core of the heart and would realize the presentation lord Krishna around the surrounding.
As I read in scripture the quality of spiritual master, is very merciful in bestowing the boon of devotion service and love of supreme personality of godhead lord Krishna and same I realized by associating with you and while following your instructions. The attachment with material things vanished and love for lord Krishna and serving the vaishnava increase day by day.
I am praying to lord Krishna and Srila prabhupada to always keep guru maharaja in good health so that he can continuously preach the message of Godhead to innumerable fallen souls like me. Your grace is the most important person in my life I can't imagine life without your mercy, before I was drowned by Maya and covered by her veil a misidentified lost soul roaming aimlessly around. On this auspicious day of your vyasa puja , I beg for your causeless mercy and shelter so that I may continue to serve you in which ever way you desire.
Long life Guru maharaja.
Your most insignificant servant
Saurabhdeep Singh
Please accept my humble obeisance in the dust of your lotus feet,on the most auspicious day of your appearance.
All glories to Sri Sri Krishna Balaram.
All glories to Srila prabhupada.
All glories to you.
Wish you a happy appearance day,
This is my humble offering to your grace on this auspicious day of your holy appearance.
I deeply thank lord Radha Krishna for letting you appear on this very day on earth as your grace has done many great and extra ordinary services for your beloved Srila Prabhupada.
Your lectures smash through gross impersonlist speculation realising how blinded I am by the darkness of material nature. By the medium of contemporary topics,you present Lord Krishna, the supreme personality of Godhead. Your kirtan is amazing and it touches the inner core of the heart and would realize the presentation lord Krishna around the surrounding.
As I read in scripture the quality of spiritual master, is very merciful in bestowing the boon of devotion service and love of supreme personality of godhead lord Krishna and same I realized by associating with you and while following your instructions. The attachment with material things vanished and love for lord Krishna and serving the vaishnava increase day by day.
I am praying to lord Krishna and Srila prabhupada to always keep guru maharaja in good health so that he can continuously preach the message of Godhead to innumerable fallen souls like me. Your grace is the most important person in my life I can't imagine life without your mercy, before I was drowned by Maya and covered by her veil a misidentified lost soul roaming aimlessly around. On this auspicious day of your vyasa puja , I beg for your causeless mercy and shelter so that I may continue to serve you in which ever way you desire.
Long life Guru maharaja.
Your most insignificant servant
Saurabhdeep Singh
Saurav Mittal
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupad.
Please continue to shower me with your mercy.
I help out one day before Janmashtami in washing potatoes. This year I washed about 13 bags of potatoes.
I also help in sticking Mantra Lounge stickers on the cover of your books
Your servant
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupad.
Please continue to shower me with your mercy.
I help out one day before Janmashtami in washing potatoes. This year I washed about 13 bags of potatoes.
I also help in sticking Mantra Lounge stickers on the cover of your books
Your servant
Sayak Basu from Kolkata
Hare Krishna Gurudeva. Please accept my humble obeisances unto your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. I dont have any qualification to write an offering to you but I would try my best to say few words about you.
I still remember the day I got a link of your audio video lecture from my dear friend Agnipan Krishna das and the moment I started hearing I felt something inside my heart. I knew nothing about Krishna Consciousness but still I felt that if someday I feel inspired to accept a guru then it would be you.
Every word that came out from your mouth left an indelible impression in my heart.
The profound knowledge of Vedas that you have with clarity and conviction which not only has inspired me time and again but also has given a sense of hope in my spiritual life whenever I have been tested by maya thoroughly.
I am an ignorant fool but I know that if I am able to remain surrendered to you I will surely cross the ocean of nescience.
On this auspicious day of your apearance I pray once again to you that I remain fixed at your lotus feet and serve you with full enthusiasm life after life.
Your servant at your lotus feet
Sayak Basu
from Kolkata
I still remember the day I got a link of your audio video lecture from my dear friend Agnipan Krishna das and the moment I started hearing I felt something inside my heart. I knew nothing about Krishna Consciousness but still I felt that if someday I feel inspired to accept a guru then it would be you.
Every word that came out from your mouth left an indelible impression in my heart.
The profound knowledge of Vedas that you have with clarity and conviction which not only has inspired me time and again but also has given a sense of hope in my spiritual life whenever I have been tested by maya thoroughly.
I am an ignorant fool but I know that if I am able to remain surrendered to you I will surely cross the ocean of nescience.
On this auspicious day of your apearance I pray once again to you that I remain fixed at your lotus feet and serve you with full enthusiasm life after life.
Your servant at your lotus feet
Sayak Basu
from Kolkata
Saṅkarṣaṇa Rāmā Das
nama oṁ viṣnu pādāya kṛṣṇa preṣthāya bhūtale
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ,
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
How can I appropriately glorify you Gurudeva? Although I am not qualified to glorify you, but I am going to make an attempt to write an offering to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
Gurudeva, you are an ocean of mercy and pure unconditional love. The endless compassion and kindness in your heart towards all the suffering conditioned souls can clearly be seen. One example of your Mercy and compassion is that you have accepted me as your disciple. Although I am a fool number one and have no good qualities and I am the most unqualified person to be recognized as your disciple, still you gave me the shelter at your loft feet. If I look back, just three years ago I was living a typical kali-yuga lifestyle and now I am trying to cultivate and live a lifestyle in mode of goodness, I still can’t figure it out what happened and how I have given up so many mundane things which I was so attached to,and I never thought I would ever give it up, it’s like I have taken a new birth.
Gurudeva, I still cannot comprehend the greatest gift you have given me. Because of my deep ignorance and poor fund of knowledge it’s inconceivable for me to understand the value of this great gift, I Know it’s very precious, something very big, something rarely received and I cannot pay you back even if I take millions of births and even though If I had all the opulence in this whole world.
In this material world everyone thrive for success. People are working so hard in pursuit of mundane things and busy chasing their material goals. So they can become so called successful persons however they have no understanding of what actually Success means..!!
The definition of Success is nicely explained by Srila Prabhupada in Srimad Bhagvatam (4.29.51)
“Success in Life means accepting a Spiritual Master who knows Krishna as the only Supreme beloved personality. One should worship such a confidential devotee of the Lord.”
I pray that my heart, which is full of anarthas and attached to so many temporary things, can be purified by following your instructions. So, I can develop some attachment to your lotus feet and I have no other material desire (anyābhilāṣitā-śūnyaṁ) other than worshiping you with all my heart. Attachment to your lotus feet means perfection of life and real success.
Srila Prabhupada wrote in one of his letter to his disciple Mahapurasua prabhu in Feb 12, 1962 :-
“The spiritual Master and Krishna are two parallel lines. The train, on two tracks, moves forward. The Spiritual Master and Krishna are like these two tracks, they must be served simultaneously. Krishna helps one to find bonafide Spiritual Master and bonafide Spiritual Master helps one to find Krishna. If one does not get bonafide Spiritual Master, then how he can ever understand Krishna? You cannot serve Krishna without Spiritual Master, or Serve Spiritual Master without serving Krishna. They must be served simultaneously.”
I pray to Krishna that I never forget the most joyful experiences I've ever encountered every time you have lead kirtans. Please give me your blessings so I can constantly be engaged in chanting the Holy name and performing devotional services. Gurudeva, the ocean of compassion which you have in your heart towards conditioned souls, I pray that One day I can develop a drop of that compassion in my heart.
Praying on behalf of myself and my mother,that we can always remain at your lotus feet, and to give us the strength to assist you in spreading Srila Prabhupada Mission.
Thank you Gurudeva for giving me such a nice name.
Aspiring to become your humble servent,
Saṅkarṣaṇa Rāmā Das
srimate devāmṛta swāmin iti nāmine
pracāre purva-dakṣyam ca bhaktācāra-pravīṇatā
parārthatāpi kāruṇyam yasya sarve ca te namaḥ,
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
How can I appropriately glorify you Gurudeva? Although I am not qualified to glorify you, but I am going to make an attempt to write an offering to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
Gurudeva, you are an ocean of mercy and pure unconditional love. The endless compassion and kindness in your heart towards all the suffering conditioned souls can clearly be seen. One example of your Mercy and compassion is that you have accepted me as your disciple. Although I am a fool number one and have no good qualities and I am the most unqualified person to be recognized as your disciple, still you gave me the shelter at your loft feet. If I look back, just three years ago I was living a typical kali-yuga lifestyle and now I am trying to cultivate and live a lifestyle in mode of goodness, I still can’t figure it out what happened and how I have given up so many mundane things which I was so attached to,and I never thought I would ever give it up, it’s like I have taken a new birth.
Gurudeva, I still cannot comprehend the greatest gift you have given me. Because of my deep ignorance and poor fund of knowledge it’s inconceivable for me to understand the value of this great gift, I Know it’s very precious, something very big, something rarely received and I cannot pay you back even if I take millions of births and even though If I had all the opulence in this whole world.
In this material world everyone thrive for success. People are working so hard in pursuit of mundane things and busy chasing their material goals. So they can become so called successful persons however they have no understanding of what actually Success means..!!
The definition of Success is nicely explained by Srila Prabhupada in Srimad Bhagvatam (4.29.51)
“Success in Life means accepting a Spiritual Master who knows Krishna as the only Supreme beloved personality. One should worship such a confidential devotee of the Lord.”
I pray that my heart, which is full of anarthas and attached to so many temporary things, can be purified by following your instructions. So, I can develop some attachment to your lotus feet and I have no other material desire (anyābhilāṣitā-śūnyaṁ) other than worshiping you with all my heart. Attachment to your lotus feet means perfection of life and real success.
Srila Prabhupada wrote in one of his letter to his disciple Mahapurasua prabhu in Feb 12, 1962 :-
“The spiritual Master and Krishna are two parallel lines. The train, on two tracks, moves forward. The Spiritual Master and Krishna are like these two tracks, they must be served simultaneously. Krishna helps one to find bonafide Spiritual Master and bonafide Spiritual Master helps one to find Krishna. If one does not get bonafide Spiritual Master, then how he can ever understand Krishna? You cannot serve Krishna without Spiritual Master, or Serve Spiritual Master without serving Krishna. They must be served simultaneously.”
I pray to Krishna that I never forget the most joyful experiences I've ever encountered every time you have lead kirtans. Please give me your blessings so I can constantly be engaged in chanting the Holy name and performing devotional services. Gurudeva, the ocean of compassion which you have in your heart towards conditioned souls, I pray that One day I can develop a drop of that compassion in my heart.
Praying on behalf of myself and my mother,that we can always remain at your lotus feet, and to give us the strength to assist you in spreading Srila Prabhupada Mission.
Thank you Gurudeva for giving me such a nice name.
Aspiring to become your humble servent,
Saṅkarṣaṇa Rāmā Das
Sevamrita devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaja
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Recently while I was visiting a hospital and one poster grabbed my attention— ‘Aggression and Violence against healthcare workers. It’s never ok’. It had a picture of a patient being verbally and physically abusive to a hospital staff. Initially I was a little shocked how a patient could possibly be violent towards someone who’s there to help them. Then I realised that our complaining and blaming mentality targets everyone, without discrimination, even to those that we should be most grateful both materially and spiritually. As I was thinking about this, I noticed one patient with mental illness swearing at a carer close to him. ‘Why would anyone want to do such a tiresome job even if they get paid?’, I wondered. Why and how do YOU do it, gurudeva, as a spiritual doctor giving spiritual medicine and care? This was answered by a verse in Srimad Bhagavatam 3.5.3:
O my lord, great philanthropic souls travel on the earth on behalf of the Supreme Personality of Godhead to show compassion to the fallen souls who are averse to the sense of subordination to the Lord.
PURPORT
To be obedient to the wishes of the Supreme Lord is the natural position of every living entity. But due only to past misdeeds, a living being becomes averse to the sense of subordination to the Lord and suffers all the miseries of material existence. No one has anything to do but render devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Śrī Kṛṣṇa. Therefore any activity other than transcendental loving service to the Lord is more or less a rebellious action against the supreme will… Great unalloyed devotees of the Lord are compassionate towards the fallen, and therefore they travel all over the world with the mission of bringing souls back to Godhead, back to home. Such pure devotees of the Lord carry the message of Godhead in order to deliver the fallen souls, and therefore the common man who is bewildered by the influence of the external energy of the Lord should avail himself of their association.
Your compassionate heart to reach out to the fallen souls and look after those who come under your shelter is certainly not ordinary. As you have mentioned in classes, a spiritual master doesn't receive just flowers and glorification but also criticism and blame. How much dedication you must have to the parampara to do such a selfless service year after year..
As I was exiting the hospital, I reflected on my rebellious nature to still trying to enjoy separate from the devotional service to the Lord, forgetting about my own material disease. Yet despite of this, how blessed I am to have your guidance and care.
On this day, I sincerely pray for the heart and strength to be obedient to the desires of the Lord, to your mission of bringing souls back to Godhead.
Always grateful to have your shelter and association,
Sevamrita devi dasi
Please accept my most humble obeisances at your lotus feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Recently while I was visiting a hospital and one poster grabbed my attention— ‘Aggression and Violence against healthcare workers. It’s never ok’. It had a picture of a patient being verbally and physically abusive to a hospital staff. Initially I was a little shocked how a patient could possibly be violent towards someone who’s there to help them. Then I realised that our complaining and blaming mentality targets everyone, without discrimination, even to those that we should be most grateful both materially and spiritually. As I was thinking about this, I noticed one patient with mental illness swearing at a carer close to him. ‘Why would anyone want to do such a tiresome job even if they get paid?’, I wondered. Why and how do YOU do it, gurudeva, as a spiritual doctor giving spiritual medicine and care? This was answered by a verse in Srimad Bhagavatam 3.5.3:
O my lord, great philanthropic souls travel on the earth on behalf of the Supreme Personality of Godhead to show compassion to the fallen souls who are averse to the sense of subordination to the Lord.
PURPORT
To be obedient to the wishes of the Supreme Lord is the natural position of every living entity. But due only to past misdeeds, a living being becomes averse to the sense of subordination to the Lord and suffers all the miseries of material existence. No one has anything to do but render devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Śrī Kṛṣṇa. Therefore any activity other than transcendental loving service to the Lord is more or less a rebellious action against the supreme will… Great unalloyed devotees of the Lord are compassionate towards the fallen, and therefore they travel all over the world with the mission of bringing souls back to Godhead, back to home. Such pure devotees of the Lord carry the message of Godhead in order to deliver the fallen souls, and therefore the common man who is bewildered by the influence of the external energy of the Lord should avail himself of their association.
Your compassionate heart to reach out to the fallen souls and look after those who come under your shelter is certainly not ordinary. As you have mentioned in classes, a spiritual master doesn't receive just flowers and glorification but also criticism and blame. How much dedication you must have to the parampara to do such a selfless service year after year..
As I was exiting the hospital, I reflected on my rebellious nature to still trying to enjoy separate from the devotional service to the Lord, forgetting about my own material disease. Yet despite of this, how blessed I am to have your guidance and care.
On this day, I sincerely pray for the heart and strength to be obedient to the desires of the Lord, to your mission of bringing souls back to Godhead.
Always grateful to have your shelter and association,
Sevamrita devi dasi
Sevya Bhagavan Das
nama om visnu - padaya
krsna – presthaya bhu-tale
srimate Devamrita -
swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisance at the dust of Your lotus feet
In Srimad Bhagavatham 2nd Canto in one of the purports Srila Prabhupada mentioned a verse from Hari-bhakti-sudhodaya (13.2). In that it is said
akṣṇoḥ phalaṁ tvādṛśa-darśanaṁ hi
tanoḥ phalaṁ tvādṛśa-gātra-saṅgaḥ
jihvā-phalaṁ tvādṛśa-kīrtanaṁ hi
sudurlabhā bhāgavatā hi loke
"O devotee of the Lord, the purpose of the visual sense is fulfilled simply by seeing you, and to touch your body is the fulfillment of bodily touch. The tongue is meant for glorifying your qualities because in this world a pure devotee of the Lord is very difficult to find."
Gurudeva, we are very fortunate having taken shelter at your Lotus feet.
Gurudeva, on the material basis world has advanced so drastically. Their advancement is like running on a treadmill of this material world. Whatever the speed they run, whatever the distance they run, they go nowhere. Just they burn their energy and waste their human intelligence. But still they claim they are advancing. Seeing this glittering false advancement, like a mirage in the desert, students from different corners of the world come to Australia and other cities of the world to seek this advanced material education. As Srila Prabhupada pointed out these material education institutes are like slaughterhouses, killing students’ human intelligence and training students to become killers of the soul without teaching the value of human life. The only fortune they or everyone in this material world have is coming in contact with a pure devotee of the Lord like You in your preaching programs or any other means. You challenge and prove everyone that, in this world only missing thing is comprehensive profound spiritual knowledge. You invite everyone to try the Bhakti laboratory to experiment and experience the results.
Srila Prabhupada wrote in Srimad Bhagawatha 3.4.25 verse purport that, the pure devotee of the Lord does not have any other interest in this world than to enlighten the society in transcendental knowledge and imparting knowledge of the relationship of the living being with the Supreme Lord, the activities in that transcendental relationship, and the ultimate goal of human life.
Gurudeva, you are the emblem of Srila Prabhupada's words.
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Like a cloud pours water to extinguish the forest fire, You travel every continent of the world to extinguish the blazing fire of material existence by distribute the transcendental knowledge. You are like a seed, that sacrifices itself to give birth to a tree to produce millions of seeds. You also sacrificed your comforts to deliver us from the material illusion and training us to do the greatest welfare activity, spreading Krishna Consciousness.
Gurudeva, You are an expert physician in the Lord Chaitanya's Vaidyashala for injecting the transcendental sound vibration to the ears of suffering human society. Everyone witnessed it in your preaching programs. We all became fortunate having your darshan, having engaged in some insignificant service on to your lotus feet and hearing transcendental knowledge from Your Lotus lips.
Gurudeva you have nothing to do with the affairs of this mundane material world. You do not descend here to interfere with the affairs of temporary necessities, but to deliver us, the fallen, conditioned souls. We have come here to the material world with a motive of enjoyment by the mind and the five organs of sense perception and we were hiding in unnatural happiness. You appear before us to unhide our illusory happiness and take us to eternal blissful spiritual life by revealing the light of the Vedas and to bestow upon us the blessings of full-fledged freedom, and send us back to eternal home.
Gurudeva in every life I have got mother and father, but I did not get Guru and Krishna. It is said in the Prema-vivarta by a Vaishnava Kavi
janame janame sabe pitā-mātā pāya
kṛṣṇa guru nahi mile bhaja hari ei
But, out of causeless mercy of Krishna in this life you accepted me as your disciple. I am so fortunate for that. Gurudeva, on your auspicious Vyasa puja day I beg a benediction from you that. I may never leave the association of devotees and always engage in your service.
Your obedient servant,
Sevya Bhagavan Das
krsna – presthaya bhu-tale
srimate Devamrita -
swamin iti namine
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisance at the dust of Your lotus feet
In Srimad Bhagavatham 2nd Canto in one of the purports Srila Prabhupada mentioned a verse from Hari-bhakti-sudhodaya (13.2). In that it is said
akṣṇoḥ phalaṁ tvādṛśa-darśanaṁ hi
tanoḥ phalaṁ tvādṛśa-gātra-saṅgaḥ
jihvā-phalaṁ tvādṛśa-kīrtanaṁ hi
sudurlabhā bhāgavatā hi loke
"O devotee of the Lord, the purpose of the visual sense is fulfilled simply by seeing you, and to touch your body is the fulfillment of bodily touch. The tongue is meant for glorifying your qualities because in this world a pure devotee of the Lord is very difficult to find."
Gurudeva, we are very fortunate having taken shelter at your Lotus feet.
Gurudeva, on the material basis world has advanced so drastically. Their advancement is like running on a treadmill of this material world. Whatever the speed they run, whatever the distance they run, they go nowhere. Just they burn their energy and waste their human intelligence. But still they claim they are advancing. Seeing this glittering false advancement, like a mirage in the desert, students from different corners of the world come to Australia and other cities of the world to seek this advanced material education. As Srila Prabhupada pointed out these material education institutes are like slaughterhouses, killing students’ human intelligence and training students to become killers of the soul without teaching the value of human life. The only fortune they or everyone in this material world have is coming in contact with a pure devotee of the Lord like You in your preaching programs or any other means. You challenge and prove everyone that, in this world only missing thing is comprehensive profound spiritual knowledge. You invite everyone to try the Bhakti laboratory to experiment and experience the results.
Srila Prabhupada wrote in Srimad Bhagawatha 3.4.25 verse purport that, the pure devotee of the Lord does not have any other interest in this world than to enlighten the society in transcendental knowledge and imparting knowledge of the relationship of the living being with the Supreme Lord, the activities in that transcendental relationship, and the ultimate goal of human life.
Gurudeva, you are the emblem of Srila Prabhupada's words.
pracare purva-daksyam ca
bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Like a cloud pours water to extinguish the forest fire, You travel every continent of the world to extinguish the blazing fire of material existence by distribute the transcendental knowledge. You are like a seed, that sacrifices itself to give birth to a tree to produce millions of seeds. You also sacrificed your comforts to deliver us from the material illusion and training us to do the greatest welfare activity, spreading Krishna Consciousness.
Gurudeva, You are an expert physician in the Lord Chaitanya's Vaidyashala for injecting the transcendental sound vibration to the ears of suffering human society. Everyone witnessed it in your preaching programs. We all became fortunate having your darshan, having engaged in some insignificant service on to your lotus feet and hearing transcendental knowledge from Your Lotus lips.
Gurudeva you have nothing to do with the affairs of this mundane material world. You do not descend here to interfere with the affairs of temporary necessities, but to deliver us, the fallen, conditioned souls. We have come here to the material world with a motive of enjoyment by the mind and the five organs of sense perception and we were hiding in unnatural happiness. You appear before us to unhide our illusory happiness and take us to eternal blissful spiritual life by revealing the light of the Vedas and to bestow upon us the blessings of full-fledged freedom, and send us back to eternal home.
Gurudeva in every life I have got mother and father, but I did not get Guru and Krishna. It is said in the Prema-vivarta by a Vaishnava Kavi
janame janame sabe pitā-mātā pāya
kṛṣṇa guru nahi mile bhaja hari ei
But, out of causeless mercy of Krishna in this life you accepted me as your disciple. I am so fortunate for that. Gurudeva, on your auspicious Vyasa puja day I beg a benediction from you that. I may never leave the association of devotees and always engage in your service.
Your obedient servant,
Sevya Bhagavan Das
Shastra Krit Das
Dear most Gurudeva
please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
One of the duties of the disciple is to worship The Spiritual master , Acarya upasanam. In relation to Advaita Acarya inviting lord Caitanya, Prabhupad writes "This sort of serious interest in welfare of public makes one a Bonafide Acarya". This oppurtunity to sit down atleast once a year to meditate on your divine qualities & my short comings is so purifying.
As it is mentioned in our books " understanding the master begins with the understanding of the spiritual master"
vaisnavera kriya mudra vijneha na bhujeha: even a very intelligent man cannot understand the activities of a pure Vaiṣṇava. I'm less intelligent but I will try to remember just a few of your glories for my own purification.
You are a reservoir of encouragement, enthusiasm, determination, compassion, humility, tolerance, simplicity, practicality, goal-smashing, spark- fanning, expert in instructing, grave & the list goes on and on. The essence of your great qualities shows the degree of your Krishna Consciousness. Your heart is soft due to being an advanced devotee or as vishvanath chakravarthy says 'Your heart is liquified like rose apple juice'.
Your enthusiasm is contagious because you have a way of making Krishna consciousness accessible, practical and oh so much fun! You relish a fresh challenge, which is perhaps why Krishna provides so many of them for you to meet with astounding success.
Srila Prabhupada often points out in his purports to the Bhagavad-Gita As It Is and Srimad-Bhagavatam that one should execute the instructions of the spiritual master with patience, depending on the mercy of Guru and Krishna. Patience is necessary to develop the confidence that Krishna will be with me as I perform devotional service according to the rules and regulations.
You are extremely patient. Through all of the years that I have known you, you have shown immense patience in dealing with me and many other disciples and devotees. Even if you desire a particular service, you wait patiently for Srila Prabhupad to mercifully bestow it upon you. You prepare yourself should that opportunity arise, and you humbly and gratefully accept the mercy.
One who is not lazy or envious while performing his prescribed devotional duties is confident that Krishna will not forget him. I am inspired by the number of hours you devote every day to sadhana, while simultaneously fitting in an exhaustive variety of services. You don’t waste a second. You go from one thing to the next, often one problem to the next, composed and focused.
I very much appreciate your progressive approach to sharing Srila Prabhupads teachings, even as you strictly adhere to the devotional practices and essential principles that you have imbibed by following those teachings. You want to include and help everyone who has a desire or no desire to go back to Godhead. Your mercy has never fallen short; rather our hands are too small to contain it!
In my beggining days of krishna conciousness seeing some potential, even in me, you asked me to join the brahmacari ashram. I was hesitating and finally you said, " what are you saving your self for?" Selfish life is miserable. Whatever service you gave maya you should atleast give the same amount of service to Krishna, otherwise it's cheating. You are only 20. Even if you give 5 years to get trained in brahmacari ashram and serve krishna without distraction it will be to your eternal credit. You will not regret it." So these words " what are you saving your self for ? Selfish life is miserable", I practically remember every time I'm getting ready to go out on books or when I don't feel like doing service that day.
Guru Maharaj, you are such an expert preacher. You strongly desire and endeavor to facilitate Lord Caitanya’s mercy to reach every nook and corner, every town and village. Every time I hear Your lecture, I become amazed at how You say exactly what I need to hear. Your empowered preaching touches so many people. By Your innovative ways, You make every arrangement for everyone to get Krishna's association through Your lectures, kirtans, your style of writing & many more. You use every kind of social media for the service of the Lord.
You always take care of devotees and their needs. You show great compassion to all living entities, who are in a state of forgetfulness of Krishna, by constantly preaching and giving them Your time, guidance and care.You like us to cooperate and not quarrel or fault find with each other. You never give up on any devotee. You inspire everyone to study Prabhupada’s books & distribute them with great faith and enthusiasm. Some portions of these books don’t interest me when I independently read by myself. However, when I hear You read them and explain, suddenly my mind gets mesmerized.
Guru Maharaj, whenever my spiritual life starts becoming weak, by your vani association , rememberance of your instructions, as well as when you come here, my bhakti strengthens. You ignore my offences, and you always give opportunity to rectify our mistakes and serve . Recently, a senior devotee mentioned to me that you are very fortunate to have a tolerant and merciful Guru.
One time we were driving to a parade with senior devotees Brgupati Prabhu , Vijay prabhu, Vaisesika prabhu. You said something during the ride. I couldnt hear what you said so I asked you, 'Sorry Gurumaharaj?' You immediately, with a raised voice said, "Not you." I was puffed up like a ballon before that, but those two words "Not you" punctured me and so many realizations came to me how I'm just a insignificant servant of the servant. Even though I distribute many books like the senior distributors in the car, and I was allowed to be in the association of all of you, I can never ever compare my self to senior devotees. Like Prabhupad says, "Even if a fly sits in the same throne as a king, the fly will never become equal to the king." Senior devotees are eternally senior to me.
Guru Deva, thank you for setting such a good example for me to follow in so many areas – Strong sadhana, reading Prabhupada’s books, exercise and keeping the body fit, Book distribution, Harinam, Prasadam distribution, writing books, sloka memorization, Dhama vaas, Deity worship, giving very nice classes, allow everyone to follow you online anywhere in the world, leaving everyone with a good impression, being humble, service attitude and the list continues. You have shown from your life, how by sincerely following Prabhupada’s instructions and process it’s possible to achieve the desired success of Krishna Prema!
Guru Maharaja, your compassion for the wandering souls has no bounds. It is with this compassion that you tirelessly travel around the world without caring for the bodily comforts. Even though you are so busy during these travels you never fail to remember us by sending messages. We cannot sufficiently express our gratitude for this. Your messages of love in the form chastiments or encouragement always seems to come at the opportune time just as a rope to a man drowning in the high sea.
Once one senior mataji in LA was complaining to you that your disciples are not giving her oppurtunity to cook for you. You started chastising me right there. I became shocked, and trying to say to you it's not true what she is saying, You raised your voice and said, "You shut up." Immediately the mataji that was complaining became pacified and left. You just giggled when we went back to your room. You are an expert psychologist These words "you shut up" come to mind whenever I have the tendency to argue or quarell.
It's difficult to become qualified, and more difficult is to remain qualified. Even Romaharshan Suta became disqualified, but you remain qualified and fixed. You are so real.You are free from the 4 defects of an ordinary human being. You only live for Krishna's pleasure. As you once said, "Using things in personal service is politics, either individual or as a organization."
Every time I hear Prabhupad I can't help but to remember you since you gave me Prabhupad. Prabhupad explained in a lecture "just like if you associate with a wealthy person, he can give you million dollars if he likes." You are a pure devotee with unlimited spiritual wealth, and by your association and assisting you to assist Srila Prabhupad you can give us Krishna. You are over ladened with mercy ( Karuna Bharite).
Prabhupad once said, "The differnce between the book bhagavath and person bhagavath is that the person bhagavath can pull you by the ear and chastise you."
You told my mother once, "He needs training. "
Out of mercy You don't hestitate to go out of your way to correct us and train us to be humble. The training & corrections we receive from you is so priceless even materially( even though we don't like to hear it at that moment ).
As it is mentioned, "If we are offended by the chastisements of Guru, we have rejected the blessings of the lord coming thru his pure devotees."
I am overwhelmed by feelings of unworthiness and guilt. Yet another year has passed, and I haven’t made much spiritual advancement. The desire for pure devotional service continues to elude me, and I have yet to develop taste for the Holy Name. I am entangled in the web of material existence, constantly facing challenges from my own anarthas. My only saving grace is the shelter of your lotus feet. Your causeless mercy alone, shines like a bright lamp in an otherwise dark and gloomy materialistic life.
I could say so many more words of appreciation to glorify you, however I know that my genuine appreciation for you will be reflected in how much I surrender to your instructions, fulfill your orders and please you.
My prayers and burning desire is to do something wonderful to please you. i want to distribute atleast 1008 sets of Bhagavatam sets in the next years, and cultivate many sincere souls and offer them at your lotus feet. It's hard to remain at your lotus feet because of your constant traveling, but I pray to be able to remember your lotus feet constantly which will remove all obstacles in achieving spiritual goals.
Your rascal son
Shastra krit das
(wrote from Govardhan eco village)
09/24/2017
A poem from my wife
Moonlike rays
you give,
to soothe our malaise,
in these days
of quarrel and hypocrisy.
The brilliance emanating
in sight and sound
surpassing mundane aristocracy,
dissipating fear and doubt
with loving compassion,
giving juice to the happiness drought.
In the darkest of nights,
shown bright,
redirecting our misguided flight
towards the ocean of divine association,
reflecting for all to join in sport
leaving aside this station
of cremation.
-Kumari Gopi dd
please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
One of the duties of the disciple is to worship The Spiritual master , Acarya upasanam. In relation to Advaita Acarya inviting lord Caitanya, Prabhupad writes "This sort of serious interest in welfare of public makes one a Bonafide Acarya". This oppurtunity to sit down atleast once a year to meditate on your divine qualities & my short comings is so purifying.
As it is mentioned in our books " understanding the master begins with the understanding of the spiritual master"
vaisnavera kriya mudra vijneha na bhujeha: even a very intelligent man cannot understand the activities of a pure Vaiṣṇava. I'm less intelligent but I will try to remember just a few of your glories for my own purification.
You are a reservoir of encouragement, enthusiasm, determination, compassion, humility, tolerance, simplicity, practicality, goal-smashing, spark- fanning, expert in instructing, grave & the list goes on and on. The essence of your great qualities shows the degree of your Krishna Consciousness. Your heart is soft due to being an advanced devotee or as vishvanath chakravarthy says 'Your heart is liquified like rose apple juice'.
Your enthusiasm is contagious because you have a way of making Krishna consciousness accessible, practical and oh so much fun! You relish a fresh challenge, which is perhaps why Krishna provides so many of them for you to meet with astounding success.
Srila Prabhupada often points out in his purports to the Bhagavad-Gita As It Is and Srimad-Bhagavatam that one should execute the instructions of the spiritual master with patience, depending on the mercy of Guru and Krishna. Patience is necessary to develop the confidence that Krishna will be with me as I perform devotional service according to the rules and regulations.
You are extremely patient. Through all of the years that I have known you, you have shown immense patience in dealing with me and many other disciples and devotees. Even if you desire a particular service, you wait patiently for Srila Prabhupad to mercifully bestow it upon you. You prepare yourself should that opportunity arise, and you humbly and gratefully accept the mercy.
One who is not lazy or envious while performing his prescribed devotional duties is confident that Krishna will not forget him. I am inspired by the number of hours you devote every day to sadhana, while simultaneously fitting in an exhaustive variety of services. You don’t waste a second. You go from one thing to the next, often one problem to the next, composed and focused.
I very much appreciate your progressive approach to sharing Srila Prabhupads teachings, even as you strictly adhere to the devotional practices and essential principles that you have imbibed by following those teachings. You want to include and help everyone who has a desire or no desire to go back to Godhead. Your mercy has never fallen short; rather our hands are too small to contain it!
In my beggining days of krishna conciousness seeing some potential, even in me, you asked me to join the brahmacari ashram. I was hesitating and finally you said, " what are you saving your self for?" Selfish life is miserable. Whatever service you gave maya you should atleast give the same amount of service to Krishna, otherwise it's cheating. You are only 20. Even if you give 5 years to get trained in brahmacari ashram and serve krishna without distraction it will be to your eternal credit. You will not regret it." So these words " what are you saving your self for ? Selfish life is miserable", I practically remember every time I'm getting ready to go out on books or when I don't feel like doing service that day.
Guru Maharaj, you are such an expert preacher. You strongly desire and endeavor to facilitate Lord Caitanya’s mercy to reach every nook and corner, every town and village. Every time I hear Your lecture, I become amazed at how You say exactly what I need to hear. Your empowered preaching touches so many people. By Your innovative ways, You make every arrangement for everyone to get Krishna's association through Your lectures, kirtans, your style of writing & many more. You use every kind of social media for the service of the Lord.
You always take care of devotees and their needs. You show great compassion to all living entities, who are in a state of forgetfulness of Krishna, by constantly preaching and giving them Your time, guidance and care.You like us to cooperate and not quarrel or fault find with each other. You never give up on any devotee. You inspire everyone to study Prabhupada’s books & distribute them with great faith and enthusiasm. Some portions of these books don’t interest me when I independently read by myself. However, when I hear You read them and explain, suddenly my mind gets mesmerized.
Guru Maharaj, whenever my spiritual life starts becoming weak, by your vani association , rememberance of your instructions, as well as when you come here, my bhakti strengthens. You ignore my offences, and you always give opportunity to rectify our mistakes and serve . Recently, a senior devotee mentioned to me that you are very fortunate to have a tolerant and merciful Guru.
One time we were driving to a parade with senior devotees Brgupati Prabhu , Vijay prabhu, Vaisesika prabhu. You said something during the ride. I couldnt hear what you said so I asked you, 'Sorry Gurumaharaj?' You immediately, with a raised voice said, "Not you." I was puffed up like a ballon before that, but those two words "Not you" punctured me and so many realizations came to me how I'm just a insignificant servant of the servant. Even though I distribute many books like the senior distributors in the car, and I was allowed to be in the association of all of you, I can never ever compare my self to senior devotees. Like Prabhupad says, "Even if a fly sits in the same throne as a king, the fly will never become equal to the king." Senior devotees are eternally senior to me.
Guru Deva, thank you for setting such a good example for me to follow in so many areas – Strong sadhana, reading Prabhupada’s books, exercise and keeping the body fit, Book distribution, Harinam, Prasadam distribution, writing books, sloka memorization, Dhama vaas, Deity worship, giving very nice classes, allow everyone to follow you online anywhere in the world, leaving everyone with a good impression, being humble, service attitude and the list continues. You have shown from your life, how by sincerely following Prabhupada’s instructions and process it’s possible to achieve the desired success of Krishna Prema!
Guru Maharaja, your compassion for the wandering souls has no bounds. It is with this compassion that you tirelessly travel around the world without caring for the bodily comforts. Even though you are so busy during these travels you never fail to remember us by sending messages. We cannot sufficiently express our gratitude for this. Your messages of love in the form chastiments or encouragement always seems to come at the opportune time just as a rope to a man drowning in the high sea.
Once one senior mataji in LA was complaining to you that your disciples are not giving her oppurtunity to cook for you. You started chastising me right there. I became shocked, and trying to say to you it's not true what she is saying, You raised your voice and said, "You shut up." Immediately the mataji that was complaining became pacified and left. You just giggled when we went back to your room. You are an expert psychologist These words "you shut up" come to mind whenever I have the tendency to argue or quarell.
It's difficult to become qualified, and more difficult is to remain qualified. Even Romaharshan Suta became disqualified, but you remain qualified and fixed. You are so real.You are free from the 4 defects of an ordinary human being. You only live for Krishna's pleasure. As you once said, "Using things in personal service is politics, either individual or as a organization."
Every time I hear Prabhupad I can't help but to remember you since you gave me Prabhupad. Prabhupad explained in a lecture "just like if you associate with a wealthy person, he can give you million dollars if he likes." You are a pure devotee with unlimited spiritual wealth, and by your association and assisting you to assist Srila Prabhupad you can give us Krishna. You are over ladened with mercy ( Karuna Bharite).
Prabhupad once said, "The differnce between the book bhagavath and person bhagavath is that the person bhagavath can pull you by the ear and chastise you."
You told my mother once, "He needs training. "
Out of mercy You don't hestitate to go out of your way to correct us and train us to be humble. The training & corrections we receive from you is so priceless even materially( even though we don't like to hear it at that moment ).
As it is mentioned, "If we are offended by the chastisements of Guru, we have rejected the blessings of the lord coming thru his pure devotees."
I am overwhelmed by feelings of unworthiness and guilt. Yet another year has passed, and I haven’t made much spiritual advancement. The desire for pure devotional service continues to elude me, and I have yet to develop taste for the Holy Name. I am entangled in the web of material existence, constantly facing challenges from my own anarthas. My only saving grace is the shelter of your lotus feet. Your causeless mercy alone, shines like a bright lamp in an otherwise dark and gloomy materialistic life.
I could say so many more words of appreciation to glorify you, however I know that my genuine appreciation for you will be reflected in how much I surrender to your instructions, fulfill your orders and please you.
My prayers and burning desire is to do something wonderful to please you. i want to distribute atleast 1008 sets of Bhagavatam sets in the next years, and cultivate many sincere souls and offer them at your lotus feet. It's hard to remain at your lotus feet because of your constant traveling, but I pray to be able to remember your lotus feet constantly which will remove all obstacles in achieving spiritual goals.
Your rascal son
Shastra krit das
(wrote from Govardhan eco village)
09/24/2017
A poem from my wife
Moonlike rays
you give,
to soothe our malaise,
in these days
of quarrel and hypocrisy.
The brilliance emanating
in sight and sound
surpassing mundane aristocracy,
dissipating fear and doubt
with loving compassion,
giving juice to the happiness drought.
In the darkest of nights,
shown bright,
redirecting our misguided flight
towards the ocean of divine association,
reflecting for all to join in sport
leaving aside this station
of cremation.
-Kumari Gopi dd
Sri Goloka Das
Nama om visnu-padaya krishna-presthaya bhu tale
srimate devamrita svamin iti namine;
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
Dearest Srila Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my most humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your divine appearance.
Your auspicious Vyasa Puja provides the opportunity for the disciple to further purify oneself by glorifying the Spiritual Master with the mood of gratitude and meditation on your ocean of Vaishnava qualities.
Gurudeva, when meditating on you I feel your deep compassion for everyone that you meet. I find your expert dealings with each person you meet so inspirational. You speak so pleasingly and have a special way to appeal to their hearts. When I speak to the people who have had your association, they are surcharged with your spiritual energy and it is contagious. It reminds me about what Srila Prabhupada taught us about fire and the iron rod. The goal is to keep the rod in the fire even though your vapu presence may not be there all the time. I selfishly long for your vapu association all the time when you come to Denver and I feel privileged when I receive it. But this is out of spiritual immaturity because you are present every time I meditate on your instructions and teachings. I am praying that I realize this important fact one day.
It is going on near thirteen years since you casted your merciful glance onto me back in Australia. You kept guiding me all throughout my stay in Australia and continue to do so even now. You corrected my crooked thinking and selfish ways, you cared for my situation at home and helped make my parents favorable to ISKCON. By your mercy, I realized that my parents were not favorable because they saw ISKCON through me, and because I did not have the correct mood, it advertised ISKCON in the wrong way to them. I was going through so much self-inflicted problems, floating aimlessly here and there and when you came into my life, you gave me a sense of direction and purpose. I thought I understood Srila Prabhupada’s books, but I realized after your guidance that I have not even tapped into the depths of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings. I felt content and peaceful and experienced a sense of relief while under your care. You tolerated all my offences and kept pushing me forward. That’s just who you are; caring and insightful towards everyone. Sometimes, I wonder how you have so many important things to do, yet you manage to take an exclusive interest in me. Then I realize that you take an exclusive spiritual interest in everyone because you want everyone to go back home, back to Godhead.
All those years ago when I was in Australia, you used to chastise me quite frequently. Although it was a major blow to my ego, I now miss it. I feel a little distant from you because you stopped chastising me. You are my spiritual father, my authority, head of my family, free to do or say anything you want to me as I know it is for my overall good. I do not like taking any risks when serving you because I know if I take risks, something may go wrong and I may get corrected. And as you may already know, I do not like getting corrected due to my huge false ego and pride. Instead, I hide in the background and do what service I can. With this realization, I will try and go outside my comfort zone to serve you to my best of capacity, Gurudeva.
Thank you for being in my life and guiding my wife and I so nicely. We are forever indebted to you, Gurudeva for instructing us to serve in Denver. Thank you for bringing back the focus to Sri Sri Radha Govindaji and Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your Vyasa Puja!
All glories to you Srila Gurudeva!
Your indebted servant,
Sri Goloka das
srimate devamrita svamin iti namine;
pracare purva-daksyam ca bhaktacara-pravinata
pararthatapi karunyam yasya sarve ca te namah
Dearest Srila Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my most humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your divine appearance.
Your auspicious Vyasa Puja provides the opportunity for the disciple to further purify oneself by glorifying the Spiritual Master with the mood of gratitude and meditation on your ocean of Vaishnava qualities.
Gurudeva, when meditating on you I feel your deep compassion for everyone that you meet. I find your expert dealings with each person you meet so inspirational. You speak so pleasingly and have a special way to appeal to their hearts. When I speak to the people who have had your association, they are surcharged with your spiritual energy and it is contagious. It reminds me about what Srila Prabhupada taught us about fire and the iron rod. The goal is to keep the rod in the fire even though your vapu presence may not be there all the time. I selfishly long for your vapu association all the time when you come to Denver and I feel privileged when I receive it. But this is out of spiritual immaturity because you are present every time I meditate on your instructions and teachings. I am praying that I realize this important fact one day.
It is going on near thirteen years since you casted your merciful glance onto me back in Australia. You kept guiding me all throughout my stay in Australia and continue to do so even now. You corrected my crooked thinking and selfish ways, you cared for my situation at home and helped make my parents favorable to ISKCON. By your mercy, I realized that my parents were not favorable because they saw ISKCON through me, and because I did not have the correct mood, it advertised ISKCON in the wrong way to them. I was going through so much self-inflicted problems, floating aimlessly here and there and when you came into my life, you gave me a sense of direction and purpose. I thought I understood Srila Prabhupada’s books, but I realized after your guidance that I have not even tapped into the depths of Srila Prabhupada’s teachings. I felt content and peaceful and experienced a sense of relief while under your care. You tolerated all my offences and kept pushing me forward. That’s just who you are; caring and insightful towards everyone. Sometimes, I wonder how you have so many important things to do, yet you manage to take an exclusive interest in me. Then I realize that you take an exclusive spiritual interest in everyone because you want everyone to go back home, back to Godhead.
All those years ago when I was in Australia, you used to chastise me quite frequently. Although it was a major blow to my ego, I now miss it. I feel a little distant from you because you stopped chastising me. You are my spiritual father, my authority, head of my family, free to do or say anything you want to me as I know it is for my overall good. I do not like taking any risks when serving you because I know if I take risks, something may go wrong and I may get corrected. And as you may already know, I do not like getting corrected due to my huge false ego and pride. Instead, I hide in the background and do what service I can. With this realization, I will try and go outside my comfort zone to serve you to my best of capacity, Gurudeva.
Thank you for being in my life and guiding my wife and I so nicely. We are forever indebted to you, Gurudeva for instructing us to serve in Denver. Thank you for bringing back the focus to Sri Sri Radha Govindaji and Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your Vyasa Puja!
All glories to you Srila Gurudeva!
Your indebted servant,
Sri Goloka das
Sri Jiva Charan Dasa
Dear Guru Mahārāja,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
Hearing the gravel crunch under my feet and the birds singing in the surrounding bush, I pace up your cottage path from Gaura Haven anticipating our conversation.
I feel a slight breeze on my sweaty palms, as my heart strongly beats and nerves swirl in my stomach.
I'm anxious but focused.
Two steps at a time, I make it up the wooden stairs. Taking a deep breath I slow my mind down and ask Krishna for the strength to carry the weight of your potential instructions. I know what ever you say is for my benefit; whether hard like a thunder bolt, or soft like a rose.
You are kind, merciful and compassionate. I understand your advise is for my ultimate good because you have everyones best interest at heart.
I knock on your door and cautiously enter, trying to close the door gently behind me. The atmosphere seems tranquil, peaceful and pure.
As I move into the room I see you in your chair patiently waiting. You seem rapt in deep thought as you stare into the distance. The sense that you are a very humble, intelligent and selfless person strikes me. I feel honoured and grateful to be able to meet with one of the greatest leaders on the face of this earth. Someone who has sacrificed his life to solving the problems of the world and to connect people to the love supreme. Someone who has given up everything to obtain the highest pinnacles of self realisation and enlightenment - a true urban sage.
I move forward towards you, and notice Sri Sri Radha Manasacandra on my left. I see Krishna is slightly Blue and Radha golden. I've been led to believe that they were not always this colour but developed this hue over time due to your pure unalloyed devotion.
I prostrate my body at your lotus feet as I carefully try to pronounce your pranam mantras properly.
As I sit up you say with a big smile on your face:
"So Sri Jiva Charan! how's the adventures going?"
I feel great joy, strength and enthusiasm.
Thank you Gurudeva for giving me your time, care, concern, discipline and love.
I'm sorry for letting you down at times.
Your servant Sri Jiva Charan dasa.
Sriman Nrsimha das
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my respectful obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to you Guru Maharaj! All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Reflecting back on how I happened to enter Krishna Consciousness, certainly it was the causeless arrangement of Guru and Krishna. Your powerful bursts of association during the occasional weekend retreats in Sydney still leave an enormous impression on me. It was you who: inspired me to chant ‘Hare Krishna’ “I bless you so that you may start chanting Hare Krishna” and “Cling to your chanting – it is your life protector and life enhancer”; your compassionate blessing helped me to begin following the four principles; your concern helped me to imbibe transcendental philosophy “profusely read Srila Prabhupada’s books”; your guidance allowed me to choose my present ashram “be respectful to your family as you move ahead to executing a decision that is best for you and them too – they will get credit from your seva”; your empowerment allowed me to engage in outreach “build your strength so you can preach”; and your encouragement, even from the very feeble beginning, pushed me to keep striving onward “I look forward to hearing more of your gallant progress”. The power and gravity with which you speak have fortified these directives and more in my memory for a long time to come. This year, you opened me up to a whole different dimension of Krishna Consciousness I never knew existed when the undeserved opportunity to perform Deity service for Sri Radha-Gopinath came my way – “it takes special circumstances” you mentioned. Krishna’s mercy certainly comes by following His devotees; this is His unique system that even He chooses to hold fast to.
I have found time and again that a greatly tangible form of Krishna Conscious advancement comes in revealing one’s mind in confidence to Guru. The fact that Krishna can’t be reached unless one approaches Him through His devotees is gradually beginning to solidly dawn on me. “Suppressing our conditioning” is an almost unheard concept in material life; we are taught to be who we are and be proud of that. Falling into this trap many a times in my devotional past has led me to the realisation that it will lead to utter ruination, just as Krishna mentions it in Bhagavad Gita 18.58. The florist Sudama in Mathura perfectly put it most succinctly when he asked Krishna for three pivotal boons: unshakable devotion, friendship with His devotees and compassion for all living beings. You explain many times that flourishing relationships with Krishna’s devotees is a great spiritual art, something that you say every sincere devotee must beg for. Relationships devoid of envy, exploitation, pride and false-ego is a rare phenomenon sometimes even within devotional communities; how much more should we protect them if we have fortunately found them. Guru Maharaj, already you have given me so much that I don’t deserve nor did I desire for in most instances – I ask now for one more thing. On this auspicious Vyasa Puja occasion I beg from you the skill to be able to thrive and prosper in the association of Krishna’s devotees.
Let me conclude by citing a seemingly insignificant instance, but one which demonstrates your finesse in Vaishnava dealings – it has left a deep impression on me since many years. Late one evening at the Sydney Temple you seemed to be in a heavily intense meeting. When the meeting concluded you rushed outside of the room pacing for the exit. The others who were participants of that meeting slowly came out teary eyed and dazed, I was amazed! I, along with another Godbrother of mine (both not initiated at the time) happened to be in the room outside – we were praying that we would get your darshan as you were only in Sydney for an extremely brief stopover. As you came out it certainly didn’t look like you wanted to stop; in any case we paid our obeisances to you as you strode across the room to head out. After perhaps 20 seconds or more, slowly getting up from paying dandavats I suddenly caught sight of your feet, then as I slowly looked up you were standing right there in front of us with a beaming smile on your face just waiting until we finished paying respects. “Haribol! “Hare Krishna!” you exclaimed. Then suddenly you exited and ran into the Temple room – we both tried to follow you, running also. The 9 p.m. arati was going on; you quickly paid your obeisances to Sri Radha-Gopinath and then left the Temple compound expeditiously, out of our sight, so quickly. Guru Maharaj, you are completely detached and dependent on Krishna. When it necessitates, you can be as hard as a thunderbolt, but the very next moment you show the love of a mother; both show your care and concern. Hence you are glorified as being expert at Vaishnava dealings! All glories to you Guru Maharaj! Hare Krishna!
Your servant,
Sriman Nrsimha das
Please accept my respectful obeisances at the dust of your lotus feet.
All glories to you Guru Maharaj! All glories to Srila Prabhupada!
Reflecting back on how I happened to enter Krishna Consciousness, certainly it was the causeless arrangement of Guru and Krishna. Your powerful bursts of association during the occasional weekend retreats in Sydney still leave an enormous impression on me. It was you who: inspired me to chant ‘Hare Krishna’ “I bless you so that you may start chanting Hare Krishna” and “Cling to your chanting – it is your life protector and life enhancer”; your compassionate blessing helped me to begin following the four principles; your concern helped me to imbibe transcendental philosophy “profusely read Srila Prabhupada’s books”; your guidance allowed me to choose my present ashram “be respectful to your family as you move ahead to executing a decision that is best for you and them too – they will get credit from your seva”; your empowerment allowed me to engage in outreach “build your strength so you can preach”; and your encouragement, even from the very feeble beginning, pushed me to keep striving onward “I look forward to hearing more of your gallant progress”. The power and gravity with which you speak have fortified these directives and more in my memory for a long time to come. This year, you opened me up to a whole different dimension of Krishna Consciousness I never knew existed when the undeserved opportunity to perform Deity service for Sri Radha-Gopinath came my way – “it takes special circumstances” you mentioned. Krishna’s mercy certainly comes by following His devotees; this is His unique system that even He chooses to hold fast to.
I have found time and again that a greatly tangible form of Krishna Conscious advancement comes in revealing one’s mind in confidence to Guru. The fact that Krishna can’t be reached unless one approaches Him through His devotees is gradually beginning to solidly dawn on me. “Suppressing our conditioning” is an almost unheard concept in material life; we are taught to be who we are and be proud of that. Falling into this trap many a times in my devotional past has led me to the realisation that it will lead to utter ruination, just as Krishna mentions it in Bhagavad Gita 18.58. The florist Sudama in Mathura perfectly put it most succinctly when he asked Krishna for three pivotal boons: unshakable devotion, friendship with His devotees and compassion for all living beings. You explain many times that flourishing relationships with Krishna’s devotees is a great spiritual art, something that you say every sincere devotee must beg for. Relationships devoid of envy, exploitation, pride and false-ego is a rare phenomenon sometimes even within devotional communities; how much more should we protect them if we have fortunately found them. Guru Maharaj, already you have given me so much that I don’t deserve nor did I desire for in most instances – I ask now for one more thing. On this auspicious Vyasa Puja occasion I beg from you the skill to be able to thrive and prosper in the association of Krishna’s devotees.
Let me conclude by citing a seemingly insignificant instance, but one which demonstrates your finesse in Vaishnava dealings – it has left a deep impression on me since many years. Late one evening at the Sydney Temple you seemed to be in a heavily intense meeting. When the meeting concluded you rushed outside of the room pacing for the exit. The others who were participants of that meeting slowly came out teary eyed and dazed, I was amazed! I, along with another Godbrother of mine (both not initiated at the time) happened to be in the room outside – we were praying that we would get your darshan as you were only in Sydney for an extremely brief stopover. As you came out it certainly didn’t look like you wanted to stop; in any case we paid our obeisances to you as you strode across the room to head out. After perhaps 20 seconds or more, slowly getting up from paying dandavats I suddenly caught sight of your feet, then as I slowly looked up you were standing right there in front of us with a beaming smile on your face just waiting until we finished paying respects. “Haribol! “Hare Krishna!” you exclaimed. Then suddenly you exited and ran into the Temple room – we both tried to follow you, running also. The 9 p.m. arati was going on; you quickly paid your obeisances to Sri Radha-Gopinath and then left the Temple compound expeditiously, out of our sight, so quickly. Guru Maharaj, you are completely detached and dependent on Krishna. When it necessitates, you can be as hard as a thunderbolt, but the very next moment you show the love of a mother; both show your care and concern. Hence you are glorified as being expert at Vaishnava dealings! All glories to you Guru Maharaj! Hare Krishna!
Your servant,
Sriman Nrsimha das
Sruti-cari dd
Dear Guru Deva,
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I am greatly unfortunate that I have not been able to do any useful service for you this year Guru Deva. I am sorry for my deficiency. I hope you understand that I want, with all my heart, to be a useful instrument in your preaching work, and that at the moment I am doing whatever I can to regain my heath and enthusiasm for that work.
Often I meditate on the sweet exchanges I have had with you over the years. In the absence of anything more solid to offer you on your vyasapuja day I thought I would share some of those sweet memories:
When I was young bhaktine who had been practicing for perhaps a year, you graciously came to visit my husband, Muni, and I at our home in Palmerston North. I had cooked for you a couple of times before, but you had never stayed a night (let alone two) at our house before, so I was extremely nervous. We made up the spare room for you: we did not have a spare bed only an old mattress which we laid on the floor. I bought a new set of sheets for you, as per Param Bhava's instructions, and made the bed. We arranged a small low table for you with a bottle of water, block of tilak and mirror, a photo of Srila Prabhupada and a small vase of flowers from our garden. We also found a heater for you to use. Despite the simplicity of the arrangements, you seemed pleased by our efforts to host you comfortably. You gave me your cloth to wash, which I did, leaving it to dry over night on the clotheshorse. The next day I carefully ironed and folded it. I was about to return your cloth to you when I though it would be nice to put it on a clothes hanger and leave it in your wardrobe, so I re-ironed it and put it on a hanger. Then I thought you might not see it in the wardrobe, so I re-ironed it and folded it again. Then I thought I could tell you it was in the wardrobe, so I re-ironed it and put it on the hanger. All this dithering took quite some time, so I hurried into the hallway toward your room with the cloth, just about running into you as you came out of your room. Seeing the cloth on the hanger you said with a pained look, "would you mind folding that so I can put in my case." Then as you disappeared into your room you mentioned mysteriously "folding is a mystic art of women".
On another occasion I had the privilege of doing your laundry while visiting Wellington. I stayed in the ladies ashrama and Muni stayed in the men’s ashrama. After a particularly ecstatic class and kirtana, Muni and I escorted you down the stairs to your waiting car. I handed your neatly folded washing to Muni, flat in a plastic bag, with instructions to hold it flat on his palms. He was doing really well until he realized you needed the car door opened. Grasping the corner of the bag with one hand he opened the car door with the other. I squawked and lunged to rescue the dangling cloth. You smiled to yourself as you stepped into the car. The following evening you neatly wove a comment into your talk at Bhakti Lounge: "Men CAN'T fold and they CAN'T keep things flat!"
Recently you kindly asked me to adjust the length of the sleeves on one of your kirtas (shirts). You showed me the kirta, then from your case pulled a smallish bag containing various chargers, cables, and other items, all tangled together. Rummaging amongst these knotted items, you pulled out a measuring tape and presented it to me. While you, in the privacy of your room, changed into the kirta, I rolled up the measuring tape. After emerging from your room, you allowed me to pin the sleeve to the correct length. While you again retreated into your room to change, I thought to search for something to contain the measuring tape. Madhava Mohini and I searched quickly in Karuna Purna's immaculate kitchen and found a little dish full of twisty-ties, paper clips, drawing pins, rubber bands, and other random useful little items. Selecting a suitable rubber band we bound the measuring tape just as you emerged from your room. Then we watched curiously as you stretched the kirta out flat on the bed. Biting your tongue between your teeth in concentration, you carefully folded the kirta and handed it to me flat on my outstretched palms. You looked boyishly pleased with yourself to have learned the women’s mystic art. I then passed you the rolled up measuring tape, (which was a little tricky with the kirta flat on both my palms) and you looked at the neat little bundle in surprise saying "a rubber band!" Murmuring to yourself as you turned back into your room "only a woman would think of that."
I often feel I am still that nervous young bhaktine who was fortunate to have learned from her mother the mystic art of folding washing.
I am still simply struggling with the basics, hearing and chanting. There seems to be so many anartas to work on, so many hurdles to cross, I often loose the courage to face them. But you assist me, encourage me, and inspire me, both personally and through your disciples, lectures and writings. I pray that you continue to do so despite all my many faults and lack of drive.
Thank you Guru Deva for all you do for me and others,
Your servant
Sruti-cari dd
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
I am greatly unfortunate that I have not been able to do any useful service for you this year Guru Deva. I am sorry for my deficiency. I hope you understand that I want, with all my heart, to be a useful instrument in your preaching work, and that at the moment I am doing whatever I can to regain my heath and enthusiasm for that work.
Often I meditate on the sweet exchanges I have had with you over the years. In the absence of anything more solid to offer you on your vyasapuja day I thought I would share some of those sweet memories:
When I was young bhaktine who had been practicing for perhaps a year, you graciously came to visit my husband, Muni, and I at our home in Palmerston North. I had cooked for you a couple of times before, but you had never stayed a night (let alone two) at our house before, so I was extremely nervous. We made up the spare room for you: we did not have a spare bed only an old mattress which we laid on the floor. I bought a new set of sheets for you, as per Param Bhava's instructions, and made the bed. We arranged a small low table for you with a bottle of water, block of tilak and mirror, a photo of Srila Prabhupada and a small vase of flowers from our garden. We also found a heater for you to use. Despite the simplicity of the arrangements, you seemed pleased by our efforts to host you comfortably. You gave me your cloth to wash, which I did, leaving it to dry over night on the clotheshorse. The next day I carefully ironed and folded it. I was about to return your cloth to you when I though it would be nice to put it on a clothes hanger and leave it in your wardrobe, so I re-ironed it and put it on a hanger. Then I thought you might not see it in the wardrobe, so I re-ironed it and folded it again. Then I thought I could tell you it was in the wardrobe, so I re-ironed it and put it on the hanger. All this dithering took quite some time, so I hurried into the hallway toward your room with the cloth, just about running into you as you came out of your room. Seeing the cloth on the hanger you said with a pained look, "would you mind folding that so I can put in my case." Then as you disappeared into your room you mentioned mysteriously "folding is a mystic art of women".
On another occasion I had the privilege of doing your laundry while visiting Wellington. I stayed in the ladies ashrama and Muni stayed in the men’s ashrama. After a particularly ecstatic class and kirtana, Muni and I escorted you down the stairs to your waiting car. I handed your neatly folded washing to Muni, flat in a plastic bag, with instructions to hold it flat on his palms. He was doing really well until he realized you needed the car door opened. Grasping the corner of the bag with one hand he opened the car door with the other. I squawked and lunged to rescue the dangling cloth. You smiled to yourself as you stepped into the car. The following evening you neatly wove a comment into your talk at Bhakti Lounge: "Men CAN'T fold and they CAN'T keep things flat!"
Recently you kindly asked me to adjust the length of the sleeves on one of your kirtas (shirts). You showed me the kirta, then from your case pulled a smallish bag containing various chargers, cables, and other items, all tangled together. Rummaging amongst these knotted items, you pulled out a measuring tape and presented it to me. While you, in the privacy of your room, changed into the kirta, I rolled up the measuring tape. After emerging from your room, you allowed me to pin the sleeve to the correct length. While you again retreated into your room to change, I thought to search for something to contain the measuring tape. Madhava Mohini and I searched quickly in Karuna Purna's immaculate kitchen and found a little dish full of twisty-ties, paper clips, drawing pins, rubber bands, and other random useful little items. Selecting a suitable rubber band we bound the measuring tape just as you emerged from your room. Then we watched curiously as you stretched the kirta out flat on the bed. Biting your tongue between your teeth in concentration, you carefully folded the kirta and handed it to me flat on my outstretched palms. You looked boyishly pleased with yourself to have learned the women’s mystic art. I then passed you the rolled up measuring tape, (which was a little tricky with the kirta flat on both my palms) and you looked at the neat little bundle in surprise saying "a rubber band!" Murmuring to yourself as you turned back into your room "only a woman would think of that."
I often feel I am still that nervous young bhaktine who was fortunate to have learned from her mother the mystic art of folding washing.
I am still simply struggling with the basics, hearing and chanting. There seems to be so many anartas to work on, so many hurdles to cross, I often loose the courage to face them. But you assist me, encourage me, and inspire me, both personally and through your disciples, lectures and writings. I pray that you continue to do so despite all my many faults and lack of drive.
Thank you Guru Deva for all you do for me and others,
Your servant
Sruti-cari dd
Stambha bhava das
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my prostrated obeisances in the dust at your lotus feet.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
Out of the many wonderful Vaisnava qualities that are manifest in you, there is one quality that I would especially like to glorify, and that is the purity of your Kirtan.
There is something very special about your Kirtan, even in comparison to other senior Vaisnavas in our movement. I very rarely see devotees dance with so much vigour and enthusiasm as they do when you lead Kirtan. This was confirmed by His Holiness Sacinandana Swami while introducing you to the assembled Vaisnavas at the 'Sadhu Sanga' festival in Russia. He said that you are well known through out the world for your lively, energetic Kirtan.
On the last evening of the 2016 Ukraine Festival you led a rip-roaring kirtan. While sitting with you at Lviv airport waiting for our flight the following day, you said,
"I don't know what it is, I haven't got a golden voice or anything, last night the devotees just went bonkers."
During that Kirtan, B.B. Govinda Swami, Bhaktivaibhava Swami and Madhava prabhu couldn't contain their ecstasy and started enthusiastically diving off the stage to surf the waves created by the devotees. Much to everyone's amazement after you finished the Kirtan, you were pushed off the stage against your will by the crowd surfing Swami's, and the devotees went wild trying to touch your transcendental body.
Just a few weeks ago in Koblevo (Odessa), when you started singing it felt like the spiritual world descended and the three fold misseries faded far away in to the background. Sacinandana Swami and Candra Mauli Swami are both at an advanced age yet they were bouncing around the stage with the energy of 20 year olds. I saw dancing behind you, Niranjana Swami, who appeared to have something on his head. Then I realised, they were your socks on his head!!
You yourself turned round and saw what Maharaj was doing and your face screwed up as if to say "oh no!!" Niranjana Maharaj then took those socks and threw them to Candra Mauli Swami. In his ecstasy one of those socks flew out of Candra Mauli Swami's hand in to the crowd and thirty Ukrainian devotees dived for the mercy, only half of them managed to grab hold of the sock which triggered off a scrum that made a scrum with the 'All Blacks' look like child's play. The sock was ripped to shreds and the mercy was distributed. The other sock flew out of Maharaj's hand over to the ladies side. After you finished the Kirtan I saw Candra Mauli Swami sit down next to you to make his confession, in case you were wondering where your socks had disappeared to.
The main reason I can see for the profound affect your Kirtan has on the devotees is the purity of your chanting, as we hear from Srila Prabhupada "Purity is the force". As you sincerely chant for selfless devotional service, a few drops of the ecstasy that you are experiencing falls on us and we go wild with enthusiasm to glorify Krishna.
mahāprabho Kīrtana nrtya gita
vāditra mādhyan manaso rasena
romāñca kampāśru tarangha bhājo
vande guroh śrī caranāravindam
Chanting the Holy Name, dancing in ecstasy, singing and playing musical instruments, the Spiritual Master is always gladdened by the Sankirtan movement of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Because he is relishing the mellows of pure devotion in his mind sometimes his hairs stand on end, he feels quivering in his body and tears flow from his eyes like waves. I offer my respectful obeisances to the lotus feet of such a Spiritual Master.
(Srila Viśvanatha Cakravati Thakura's Guruvastakam verse 2)
Your tactics in Kirtan are very simple but powerful. You just want the devotees to dance and chant will full vigour giving it 100% for the pleasure of the divine brothers Lord Caitanya and Lord Nityananda.
Some years ago you were encouraging the Brahmacaris to use up their youthful energy in the Kirtan,
"You don't have to wait for the Kirtan leader to get it together, just get stuck in to it!"
Over the years I have accumulated many deep samskaras from your powerful Kirtan. If at the time of my departure from this body those samskaras become manifest in my mind, that will be the perfection of my existence. I pray that I will always be able to hear your transcendental voice vibrating the Hare Krishna mantra.
Your servant
Stambha bhava das
Please accept my prostrated obeisances in the dust at your lotus feet.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your appearance.
Out of the many wonderful Vaisnava qualities that are manifest in you, there is one quality that I would especially like to glorify, and that is the purity of your Kirtan.
There is something very special about your Kirtan, even in comparison to other senior Vaisnavas in our movement. I very rarely see devotees dance with so much vigour and enthusiasm as they do when you lead Kirtan. This was confirmed by His Holiness Sacinandana Swami while introducing you to the assembled Vaisnavas at the 'Sadhu Sanga' festival in Russia. He said that you are well known through out the world for your lively, energetic Kirtan.
On the last evening of the 2016 Ukraine Festival you led a rip-roaring kirtan. While sitting with you at Lviv airport waiting for our flight the following day, you said,
"I don't know what it is, I haven't got a golden voice or anything, last night the devotees just went bonkers."
During that Kirtan, B.B. Govinda Swami, Bhaktivaibhava Swami and Madhava prabhu couldn't contain their ecstasy and started enthusiastically diving off the stage to surf the waves created by the devotees. Much to everyone's amazement after you finished the Kirtan, you were pushed off the stage against your will by the crowd surfing Swami's, and the devotees went wild trying to touch your transcendental body.
Just a few weeks ago in Koblevo (Odessa), when you started singing it felt like the spiritual world descended and the three fold misseries faded far away in to the background. Sacinandana Swami and Candra Mauli Swami are both at an advanced age yet they were bouncing around the stage with the energy of 20 year olds. I saw dancing behind you, Niranjana Swami, who appeared to have something on his head. Then I realised, they were your socks on his head!!
You yourself turned round and saw what Maharaj was doing and your face screwed up as if to say "oh no!!" Niranjana Maharaj then took those socks and threw them to Candra Mauli Swami. In his ecstasy one of those socks flew out of Candra Mauli Swami's hand in to the crowd and thirty Ukrainian devotees dived for the mercy, only half of them managed to grab hold of the sock which triggered off a scrum that made a scrum with the 'All Blacks' look like child's play. The sock was ripped to shreds and the mercy was distributed. The other sock flew out of Maharaj's hand over to the ladies side. After you finished the Kirtan I saw Candra Mauli Swami sit down next to you to make his confession, in case you were wondering where your socks had disappeared to.
The main reason I can see for the profound affect your Kirtan has on the devotees is the purity of your chanting, as we hear from Srila Prabhupada "Purity is the force". As you sincerely chant for selfless devotional service, a few drops of the ecstasy that you are experiencing falls on us and we go wild with enthusiasm to glorify Krishna.
mahāprabho Kīrtana nrtya gita
vāditra mādhyan manaso rasena
romāñca kampāśru tarangha bhājo
vande guroh śrī caranāravindam
Chanting the Holy Name, dancing in ecstasy, singing and playing musical instruments, the Spiritual Master is always gladdened by the Sankirtan movement of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Because he is relishing the mellows of pure devotion in his mind sometimes his hairs stand on end, he feels quivering in his body and tears flow from his eyes like waves. I offer my respectful obeisances to the lotus feet of such a Spiritual Master.
(Srila Viśvanatha Cakravati Thakura's Guruvastakam verse 2)
Your tactics in Kirtan are very simple but powerful. You just want the devotees to dance and chant will full vigour giving it 100% for the pleasure of the divine brothers Lord Caitanya and Lord Nityananda.
Some years ago you were encouraging the Brahmacaris to use up their youthful energy in the Kirtan,
"You don't have to wait for the Kirtan leader to get it together, just get stuck in to it!"
Over the years I have accumulated many deep samskaras from your powerful Kirtan. If at the time of my departure from this body those samskaras become manifest in my mind, that will be the perfection of my existence. I pray that I will always be able to hear your transcendental voice vibrating the Hare Krishna mantra.
Your servant
Stambha bhava das
Subuddhi Raya
Dear Gurudeva,
Vedic knowledge teaches us that if one wants to develop authentic spiritual knowledge one must approach a bona fide spiritual master and learn the science from him. One would not be able to discern what the absolute truth is by one’s own efforts and mental gymnastics.
Srila Prabhupada would often say that one cannot study at home by oneself and be acknowledged as a medical practitioner. Rather, you have to admit yourself into a medical college and attend lectures, sit exams, etc. Similarly, if you want to learn the science of Bhakti Yoga then you have to approach a spiritual master. That is the way of learning transcendental knowledge.
Somehow by Krishna’s mercy I have had the great fortune of meeting you and am now trying to become your sincere disciple.
Thank you once again for your continued support, patience and guidance. I know that you don’t want anyone to live a life wasted in illusion, living only to die and take birth over and over again. You tirelessly teach about the auspicious opportunity available to those who have the rare gift of the human form of life. You expertly point out the ultimate goal we are supposed to achieve. You are able to convey what kind if life has real value. You constantly teach us the way to reconnect with Krishna through the medium of loving devotion.
When one follows your instructions he or she can leave this world of birth and death behind. Through your association and instructions one easily gains the conviction that attachment to the Holy Names of Krishna gives ones life real wealth.
Krishna wants all lost souls to go back home to Him. Therefore He is so pleased by the compassionate devotee who is trying with all of his energy to elevate the condition of the fallen souls.
Krishna must be very pleased with your worldwide preaching and the expert support you offer to your many disciples.
I am forever grateful to have met you, and I hope to be able to please you with whatever service you may engage me in.
Your servant,
Subuddhi Raya Dasa
Vedic knowledge teaches us that if one wants to develop authentic spiritual knowledge one must approach a bona fide spiritual master and learn the science from him. One would not be able to discern what the absolute truth is by one’s own efforts and mental gymnastics.
Srila Prabhupada would often say that one cannot study at home by oneself and be acknowledged as a medical practitioner. Rather, you have to admit yourself into a medical college and attend lectures, sit exams, etc. Similarly, if you want to learn the science of Bhakti Yoga then you have to approach a spiritual master. That is the way of learning transcendental knowledge.
Somehow by Krishna’s mercy I have had the great fortune of meeting you and am now trying to become your sincere disciple.
Thank you once again for your continued support, patience and guidance. I know that you don’t want anyone to live a life wasted in illusion, living only to die and take birth over and over again. You tirelessly teach about the auspicious opportunity available to those who have the rare gift of the human form of life. You expertly point out the ultimate goal we are supposed to achieve. You are able to convey what kind if life has real value. You constantly teach us the way to reconnect with Krishna through the medium of loving devotion.
When one follows your instructions he or she can leave this world of birth and death behind. Through your association and instructions one easily gains the conviction that attachment to the Holy Names of Krishna gives ones life real wealth.
Krishna wants all lost souls to go back home to Him. Therefore He is so pleased by the compassionate devotee who is trying with all of his energy to elevate the condition of the fallen souls.
Krishna must be very pleased with your worldwide preaching and the expert support you offer to your many disciples.
I am forever grateful to have met you, and I hope to be able to please you with whatever service you may engage me in.
Your servant,
Subuddhi Raya Dasa
Sukanthi Radha dasi & Thakur Saranga Das
To my dearmost Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your lotus feet.
On this very auspicious day, we pray that Krishna may keep you with us for many more years to guide us as well as save many more wretched conditioned souls from the complicated meshes of birth and death. Your service is so utterly valuable and inconceivable, we pray to one day be fit to serve you in your glorious mission of serving Srila Prabhupada.
Krishna accommodates everyone, from those full of material desires to those who are free from material desires. Being in the former category, we greatly appreciate that we will never be denied the mercy of Krishnas pure devotees, like you, and of Lord Caitanya, Patita Pavana - the saviour of the most fallen. How amazingly fortunate we are! If only we could receive with an open heart all the mercy that is flowing down from Him, through you.
Despite being full to the brim with material desires, the opportunity to taste the highest nectar of sharing Krishna consciousness with others always lies before us. How amazingly fortunate we are! This nectar is indescribable and when we take advantage of it, such a clear connection with you and Gauranga can be felt.
When you share your pure Krishna conscious reality with others, full of realisation, energy, expertise and compassion, the depths of the ocean of nectar you must be drowning in is hard to fathom. How amazingly fortunate we are to be part of your family!
The opportunity to dip, swim and dive in the ocean of nectar before us, is one we are so greatful for. Although we may be standing on the edge for many lifetimes, at least we can witness the immersion of pure devotees like yourself, ducking and diving with full confidence, using all heart, body and soul in the service of Guru and Gauranga, free from all material desires. We pray that we may fix our vision on your bold maneuvers and be a recipient of your causeless mercy as you swim and splash in the ocean of Lord Caitanyas sankirtana movement. Please pull us in too.
Your aspiring servants always,
Sukanthi Radha devi dasi and Thakur Saranga Das
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to your lotus feet.
On this very auspicious day, we pray that Krishna may keep you with us for many more years to guide us as well as save many more wretched conditioned souls from the complicated meshes of birth and death. Your service is so utterly valuable and inconceivable, we pray to one day be fit to serve you in your glorious mission of serving Srila Prabhupada.
Krishna accommodates everyone, from those full of material desires to those who are free from material desires. Being in the former category, we greatly appreciate that we will never be denied the mercy of Krishnas pure devotees, like you, and of Lord Caitanya, Patita Pavana - the saviour of the most fallen. How amazingly fortunate we are! If only we could receive with an open heart all the mercy that is flowing down from Him, through you.
Despite being full to the brim with material desires, the opportunity to taste the highest nectar of sharing Krishna consciousness with others always lies before us. How amazingly fortunate we are! This nectar is indescribable and when we take advantage of it, such a clear connection with you and Gauranga can be felt.
When you share your pure Krishna conscious reality with others, full of realisation, energy, expertise and compassion, the depths of the ocean of nectar you must be drowning in is hard to fathom. How amazingly fortunate we are to be part of your family!
The opportunity to dip, swim and dive in the ocean of nectar before us, is one we are so greatful for. Although we may be standing on the edge for many lifetimes, at least we can witness the immersion of pure devotees like yourself, ducking and diving with full confidence, using all heart, body and soul in the service of Guru and Gauranga, free from all material desires. We pray that we may fix our vision on your bold maneuvers and be a recipient of your causeless mercy as you swim and splash in the ocean of Lord Caitanyas sankirtana movement. Please pull us in too.
Your aspiring servants always,
Sukanthi Radha devi dasi and Thakur Saranga Das
Sukharupa Devi Dasi
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Thank you for all your wonderful service and tolerating me.
Krsna Prema
Always and Forever,
Sukarupa Devi Dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Thank you for all your wonderful service and tolerating me.
Krsna Prema
Always and Forever,
Sukarupa Devi Dasi
Sundarangi Devi Dasi
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you on this glorious occasion of your appearance.
This offering is my attempt to share how your 2016 Vyasa Puja celebrations effected me. Last year I had the opportunity to be a part of your Vyasa Puja celebrations at New Varshan and the impact on me was tangible. Merely by having the privilege to attend the celebrations my desire to distribute books and increase in outreach service was re-ignited. After your 2016 Vyasa Puja celebrations I started the ISKCON 50/50 challenge and by your mercy was able to distribute 50 books last year for Srila Prahupada's movement. Trans formative seems like the best description.
Thank you for this most precious opportunity and I pray to be a worthy recipient.
Your aspiring servant,
Sundarangi devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada. All glories to you on this glorious occasion of your appearance.
This offering is my attempt to share how your 2016 Vyasa Puja celebrations effected me. Last year I had the opportunity to be a part of your Vyasa Puja celebrations at New Varshan and the impact on me was tangible. Merely by having the privilege to attend the celebrations my desire to distribute books and increase in outreach service was re-ignited. After your 2016 Vyasa Puja celebrations I started the ISKCON 50/50 challenge and by your mercy was able to distribute 50 books last year for Srila Prahupada's movement. Trans formative seems like the best description.
Thank you for this most precious opportunity and I pray to be a worthy recipient.
Your aspiring servant,
Sundarangi devi dasi
Suratanath das
Dear Gurudeva,
I had a dream one night that I had many, many fathers. Yet out of them, there was one father who could perfectly, unlimitedly and ever-increasingly fulfil his role as a teacher. Upon waking I recognised this dream to be true, in the sense that I have had, successively, over the course of my life; found many role models who have taught me about many interesting subjects that seem relevant to my slowly evolving perception of reality. Through their personal example and consistent teachings, they have linked my interests to a deepened sense of spirituality.
Yet you, dear Gurudeva, have been the one teacher who revealed, by your incredible personal example and clear instructions, the single most important lesson of remaining a chaste, fully dedicated servant of your spiritual master and the disciplic succession.
yasya deve para bhaktir yatha deve tatha gurau
tasyaite kathita hy artha prakasante mahatmanah
"Only unto those great souls who have implicit faith in both the Lord and the Spiritual Master, simultaneously, are all the imports of Vedic Knowledge automatically revealed."
- Svetasvatara Upanisad 6.23
Thank you for your consistent guidance and protection. Please continue to guide me in taking my next spiritual steps, and please protect me from falling into
illusion.
Your servant,
Suratanath das
I had a dream one night that I had many, many fathers. Yet out of them, there was one father who could perfectly, unlimitedly and ever-increasingly fulfil his role as a teacher. Upon waking I recognised this dream to be true, in the sense that I have had, successively, over the course of my life; found many role models who have taught me about many interesting subjects that seem relevant to my slowly evolving perception of reality. Through their personal example and consistent teachings, they have linked my interests to a deepened sense of spirituality.
Yet you, dear Gurudeva, have been the one teacher who revealed, by your incredible personal example and clear instructions, the single most important lesson of remaining a chaste, fully dedicated servant of your spiritual master and the disciplic succession.
yasya deve para bhaktir yatha deve tatha gurau
tasyaite kathita hy artha prakasante mahatmanah
"Only unto those great souls who have implicit faith in both the Lord and the Spiritual Master, simultaneously, are all the imports of Vedic Knowledge automatically revealed."
- Svetasvatara Upanisad 6.23
Thank you for your consistent guidance and protection. Please continue to guide me in taking my next spiritual steps, and please protect me from falling into
illusion.
Your servant,
Suratanath das
Svarupa Sakti devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisance
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
It has been 15 years and the echoes of a young confused bhaktin still resound in my psyche.
I met you at a time where I was trying to figure out my identity; should I be a rocker, emo, skater girl, punk or an uptown girl. Neither felt natural to me. I turned to a political path, trying to become a lawyer and human rights activist to please my family particularly my father for I was a prisoner to all my father held so dear. Not knowing what to do, I rallied behind friends who seemed to share the same passion and pretended to be as hyped as they were. Little did they know my discomfort and confusion. It was natural that most of us followed careers sat out by our parents. It was my understanding also that every generation, blames the one before.
As the months went on, I gradually got introduced to the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. His books spoke a message I longed to hear using a language in such a poetic, and healing way especially for the emotions. When I heard you speak in the lecture theater, I was stunned, happy, devastated and relieved that you dismantled all my so called well thought out plans to be a regulated enjoyer. I felt your message brought support and structure to a spineless life and I know had a strong enough reason to take up Krsna consciousness, despite my insecurities.
I would like to thank you for extending your compassion into my pathways.
'sādhu-saṅga', 'sādhu-saṅga'—sarva-śāstre kaya
lava-mātra sādhu-saṅge sarva-siddhi haya
Simply by associating with a pure devotee, one becomes wonderfully advanced in Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Sādhu-saṅga, or association with a devotee, means always engaging in Kṛṣṇa consciousness by chanting the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra and by acting for Kṛṣṇa. Specifically, chanting the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra purifies one, and this chanting is therefore recommended by Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu. (CC Madhya 22.54).
It did not take long for me to recognize that right in front of me was a person interested in my eternal welfare. You were able to see the good in me amidst an abyss of bad qualities. You did not focus on the negative but always highlighted the positive. It is this reason that encouraged me to join Krsna consciousness full-time. You saw a tiny spark/inclination to dance and chant and you encouraged that. By Krsna’s grace, I was able to see that and I accepted you immediately.
Growing up in the Lutheran Church, we were taught that compassion without action is simply observation. Over the years, I have observed and seen the extent of your compassionate nature. Beginning with newbies to the Bhakti process, brahmacaris, grihastas and any person who approaches you seeking clarity in life. You provide a safe environment to take up bhakti, stay and mature in bhakti and give bhakti to others. You are an extraordinary teacher, a guide, a father figure and a beacon of hope. Your innovative and dynamic strategies to spread Krsna consciousness inspire me and many people around the world. The life I have lived has been full of adventure and action at every step. It is an exciting life with no cheap thrills but the real nectar.
The second thing I would like to thank you for is the opportunities you have given me in Krsna’s service. I come from a background that taught us that our opportunities begin and end with the tone of our skin, so naturally, most of us would live life based on our skin tone. “In my mind, I see a line. And over that line, I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful white women with their arms stretched out to me over that line, but I can’t seem to get there no-how. I can't seem to get over that line.” These were the words of Harriet Tubman in the 1800’s which I took very seriously at some point, while trying to pursue a political career. At the time, opportunity only meant that I was limited as an individual based on my bodily identification as a black person. This created a host of emotions within me which I could not communicate.
From the day we met, you taught me about opportunities awaiting the spirit soul, who is part and parcel of Krsna and not bound by gender, color etc. Over the years, the philosophy of Krsna consciousness has helped me see beyond these color barriers by developing intelligence, confidence, enthusiasm, clarity of mind, determination and the strength to deal with all the harsh realities I had dealt with as a child and young adult in this world.
Thank you for providing endless opportunities to grow in bhakti and for fueling my desire to help others also on the path back home. Thank you for giving me the best life, devotee association and family.
It does not escape me for a moment that whatever happiness, achievements and good qualities I have, is a result of the compassion, tolerance, and patience of the devotees who have cared for me over the years. I have only met these great devotees by your mercy and grace and for that I remain eternally grateful.
Your servant always
Svarupa Sakti devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisance
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
It has been 15 years and the echoes of a young confused bhaktin still resound in my psyche.
I met you at a time where I was trying to figure out my identity; should I be a rocker, emo, skater girl, punk or an uptown girl. Neither felt natural to me. I turned to a political path, trying to become a lawyer and human rights activist to please my family particularly my father for I was a prisoner to all my father held so dear. Not knowing what to do, I rallied behind friends who seemed to share the same passion and pretended to be as hyped as they were. Little did they know my discomfort and confusion. It was natural that most of us followed careers sat out by our parents. It was my understanding also that every generation, blames the one before.
As the months went on, I gradually got introduced to the teachings of Srila Prabhupada. His books spoke a message I longed to hear using a language in such a poetic, and healing way especially for the emotions. When I heard you speak in the lecture theater, I was stunned, happy, devastated and relieved that you dismantled all my so called well thought out plans to be a regulated enjoyer. I felt your message brought support and structure to a spineless life and I know had a strong enough reason to take up Krsna consciousness, despite my insecurities.
I would like to thank you for extending your compassion into my pathways.
'sādhu-saṅga', 'sādhu-saṅga'—sarva-śāstre kaya
lava-mātra sādhu-saṅge sarva-siddhi haya
Simply by associating with a pure devotee, one becomes wonderfully advanced in Kṛṣṇa consciousness. Sādhu-saṅga, or association with a devotee, means always engaging in Kṛṣṇa consciousness by chanting the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra and by acting for Kṛṣṇa. Specifically, chanting the Hare Kṛṣṇa mantra purifies one, and this chanting is therefore recommended by Śrī Caitanya Mahāprabhu. (CC Madhya 22.54).
It did not take long for me to recognize that right in front of me was a person interested in my eternal welfare. You were able to see the good in me amidst an abyss of bad qualities. You did not focus on the negative but always highlighted the positive. It is this reason that encouraged me to join Krsna consciousness full-time. You saw a tiny spark/inclination to dance and chant and you encouraged that. By Krsna’s grace, I was able to see that and I accepted you immediately.
Growing up in the Lutheran Church, we were taught that compassion without action is simply observation. Over the years, I have observed and seen the extent of your compassionate nature. Beginning with newbies to the Bhakti process, brahmacaris, grihastas and any person who approaches you seeking clarity in life. You provide a safe environment to take up bhakti, stay and mature in bhakti and give bhakti to others. You are an extraordinary teacher, a guide, a father figure and a beacon of hope. Your innovative and dynamic strategies to spread Krsna consciousness inspire me and many people around the world. The life I have lived has been full of adventure and action at every step. It is an exciting life with no cheap thrills but the real nectar.
The second thing I would like to thank you for is the opportunities you have given me in Krsna’s service. I come from a background that taught us that our opportunities begin and end with the tone of our skin, so naturally, most of us would live life based on our skin tone. “In my mind, I see a line. And over that line, I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful white women with their arms stretched out to me over that line, but I can’t seem to get there no-how. I can't seem to get over that line.” These were the words of Harriet Tubman in the 1800’s which I took very seriously at some point, while trying to pursue a political career. At the time, opportunity only meant that I was limited as an individual based on my bodily identification as a black person. This created a host of emotions within me which I could not communicate.
From the day we met, you taught me about opportunities awaiting the spirit soul, who is part and parcel of Krsna and not bound by gender, color etc. Over the years, the philosophy of Krsna consciousness has helped me see beyond these color barriers by developing intelligence, confidence, enthusiasm, clarity of mind, determination and the strength to deal with all the harsh realities I had dealt with as a child and young adult in this world.
Thank you for providing endless opportunities to grow in bhakti and for fueling my desire to help others also on the path back home. Thank you for giving me the best life, devotee association and family.
It does not escape me for a moment that whatever happiness, achievements and good qualities I have, is a result of the compassion, tolerance, and patience of the devotees who have cared for me over the years. I have only met these great devotees by your mercy and grace and for that I remain eternally grateful.
Your servant always
Svarupa Sakti devi dasi
Syama-gauri
Dearest Guru Maharaj
Please accept my obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
What a wonderful day; your vyasa puja.
As the years come and go, as time moves us through various stages in this life, it becomes apparent that some internal growing in bhakti is required. To mature in Krsna consciousness and provide genuine support to others whilst upholding our own sadhana.
“Bhakti is all about lifestyle; how to shape your lifestyle for transformation, that way your life becomes successful. Keep yourself in good spiritual shape by taking good association and in that way you can continue giving the medicine without getting yourself sick’- quoted from one of your recent Bhagavatam classes.
In this year’s attempted vyasa puja offering I would like to express my gratitude to you for providing community to us all. For showing us what it’s like to be cared for, and to maturely care for one another in the same way. I admit we are not perfect at it (speaking for myself), but the intention to care for others whether they be “new” or long standing devotees is a quality we have all learnt from you.
You added (in the same Srimad Bhagavatam class above) that we should keep ourselves in good spiritual shape through our association and engagement in service. Staying in good spiritual shape takes intentional action. I’ve begun to see, since many of my friends and god-sisters are now spread all over the globe, that your hard work of creating thriving bhakti centres, in which we could give a little something back to you and Srila Prabhupada during our youth, has helped us all throughout the years. You gave us facility to grow together in spiritual life, to serve together, form friendships and become little pillars of support to each other. Thank you for that.
You have worked tirelessly over the years to create the communities we have now, nurturing and helping individuals to become part of this spiritual family whether sharing the same spiritual master or not. You have contributed in helping strangers become brothers and sisters on the highest level of all time, the bhakti level.
In closing I would like to share an excerpt I came across whilst listening to the audiobook of Yamuna devi’s book “A life of unalloyed devotion”.
"Srila Prabhupada made it clear how important it is to be attentive to our service to Krishna and our service to Krishna's devotees. Under the merciful instructions of the Spiritual Master and in a loving way, we're supposed to help each other go back to Godhead. That's a glorious thing to explore because there's no end to it. As long as we're breathing, there is no end to the potential for helping each other become Krishna Conscious in every minute of our existence by following the instructions of our Spiritual Master."
Thank you for being there, always!
I am limited in glorifying you to the extent you actually deserve, please kindly accept these few sentences and my attempt to help you with your service of caring for others.
With love and gratitude
Your servant
Syama gauri dd
Please accept my obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
What a wonderful day; your vyasa puja.
As the years come and go, as time moves us through various stages in this life, it becomes apparent that some internal growing in bhakti is required. To mature in Krsna consciousness and provide genuine support to others whilst upholding our own sadhana.
“Bhakti is all about lifestyle; how to shape your lifestyle for transformation, that way your life becomes successful. Keep yourself in good spiritual shape by taking good association and in that way you can continue giving the medicine without getting yourself sick’- quoted from one of your recent Bhagavatam classes.
In this year’s attempted vyasa puja offering I would like to express my gratitude to you for providing community to us all. For showing us what it’s like to be cared for, and to maturely care for one another in the same way. I admit we are not perfect at it (speaking for myself), but the intention to care for others whether they be “new” or long standing devotees is a quality we have all learnt from you.
You added (in the same Srimad Bhagavatam class above) that we should keep ourselves in good spiritual shape through our association and engagement in service. Staying in good spiritual shape takes intentional action. I’ve begun to see, since many of my friends and god-sisters are now spread all over the globe, that your hard work of creating thriving bhakti centres, in which we could give a little something back to you and Srila Prabhupada during our youth, has helped us all throughout the years. You gave us facility to grow together in spiritual life, to serve together, form friendships and become little pillars of support to each other. Thank you for that.
You have worked tirelessly over the years to create the communities we have now, nurturing and helping individuals to become part of this spiritual family whether sharing the same spiritual master or not. You have contributed in helping strangers become brothers and sisters on the highest level of all time, the bhakti level.
In closing I would like to share an excerpt I came across whilst listening to the audiobook of Yamuna devi’s book “A life of unalloyed devotion”.
"Srila Prabhupada made it clear how important it is to be attentive to our service to Krishna and our service to Krishna's devotees. Under the merciful instructions of the Spiritual Master and in a loving way, we're supposed to help each other go back to Godhead. That's a glorious thing to explore because there's no end to it. As long as we're breathing, there is no end to the potential for helping each other become Krishna Conscious in every minute of our existence by following the instructions of our Spiritual Master."
Thank you for being there, always!
I am limited in glorifying you to the extent you actually deserve, please kindly accept these few sentences and my attempt to help you with your service of caring for others.
With love and gratitude
Your servant
Syama gauri dd
Tamalavan das
Dear Gurudev
please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Thankyou for the lessons and writings in the recent past. These together
with your first works support me in the turmoil of a troubled planet.
In my failing I unconsciously link Kali Yuga to the health challenge within
my household as my Mother encounters the vissitudes of old age. But often
chanted Mantra together with Vaishnava music relieve and
comfort her stress. (a brush with pneumonia in August).
My path:
A) Bhagavad Gita references to Brahman are many. BG 14.26 defines the
Impersonal Brahman. What Srila Prabhupada sets out here shows me much
to know about this initial stage.
B) Is it not that God settled the question in the Gita :- that a Supreme
PERSONALITY GOD Bhagavan is where it is at for humankind. But there are
the stages on the way first.
C)The question I imagine a lot of Western people pose at some time in their
lives plain proof of the existence of God. This was brought to His Divine Grace
AC Bhaktivedanta Srila Prabhupada on several occasions.(in a mechanistic
Industrially swamped world)
C,i
I had seen a video in which Joseph Campbell (US comparative religions
academic) attempted to engage (and this is his own account) a Catholic Priest
thus :-Were the proof of the existence of God unnecessary I suppose there would
be no need for FAITH. Campbell said this was the end of the budding friendship
he had with the Priest, (they had bumped into each other execising at a Gymn)..
... logic/Philosophy this time (not evolution theory ) trampling the personal
(would one sensibly do so to a serious friend) .
Cii
Srila Prabhupada’s response to a question from the crowd at Bombay Pandal
in 1977 (when he was quite frail AND the crowd huge) when asked to show
the existence of God using logic (and that God was not just a concept) shows
I believe the depth and lifelong God Realized adept he was. Our Spiritual Master
first wanted to know was the questioner knowledgeable in logic, what logic
(what kind of logic){ the vedic terms for this being at least threefold I learn#. Vedic
thought then, has a sophistication and perhaps a difference from any Greek
formulation}Srila Prabhupada said (Prabhupada LilAmrta pages 545-546):-
HDG:” You do not know logic. You have to learn logic.”
Again the questioner pressed: “….. I want it logically”
HDG:”But you have to learn how to know it. There is master. Just like that
you cannot prove logically that without father there is child. Prabhupada
explained that everything we see is growing out of the earth, and the earth
is described in the Vedas as the mother. But there cannot be child without a
father; where there is mother and child there must be father. God therefore
is the father of everything.”
Ciii
From a Northern UK Krsna Consciousness website:-
http://www.harekrishnasociety.com/answers-to-the-question-why-is-there
-no-tangible-proof-of-god/
“ 5) His holiness Srila Prabhupada proves the existence of a supreme controller
-God: "Why is death forced upon me?" Nobody wants miserable conditions
of life,but miserable conditions of life are forced upon me. So first of all, I should
inquire, "I do not want these things. Who is forcing these things upon me?"
"Who has made this law? Who is forcing these things upon me?" After you
make this inquiry, then you can inquire about God's actual identity and your
actual identity. But first of all, you must be aware of your situation–that these
miserable conditions are being forced upon you. “
This is the same point that a young devotee offered in answer to Urmila
devi dasi’s quickfire question at last summer’s retreat at new Gupta
Vraja (and he recalled it most succcinctly). Urmila dd agreeing commented
that usually one hears:
‘..why do bad things happen to good people(if there is a God)...’.
So the Vedic ancients had this settled long since???...!!!
….law of karma.. the hand of God
your servant
Tamalavan das
# from wikipedia:
Pramanas (ie proofs a means of gaining knowledge in the Samkya School-
one of six schools of Vedic philosophy):
1)pratyaksa (perception) literally prat (directly) aksa (eyes)
2)anumana(inference)
3)sabda or aptavacana (word testimony, of reliable sources)
PS: Many of Western training have during the course of their lifes’ work
have affirmed GOD (whereas in training they would not necessarily have
that conviction). The yearly senior special guest devotees who address us
at summer retreat (many of whom however have had early acceptance ),
and of course you Guru Maharaja.
Other well known examples:
Albert Einstein “Raffiniert is der Mein Herr Gott, aber boschaft ist der
nicht “ -(-translates as God made the universe fine, and not maliciously)
-Albert had just become famous successfully predicting early in the 20th
century that astronomers would see light from distant stars hidden by
large heavenly bodies out in the universe, it having bent around the
obstruction by gravity.
The Austrian physchoanalyst Carl Jung after years of mental hospital hospital work found
that matters of Soul and God were one of the only ways back from mental
disturbances amongst his patients(he read widely of the Vedas).
Alan Marston founder of NZ planet television www.pl.net trained as as a
philosoher now freely acknowledges in a video I have seen that religions are far
more attractive to folk than intellectualistic philosophy.
please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Thankyou for the lessons and writings in the recent past. These together
with your first works support me in the turmoil of a troubled planet.
In my failing I unconsciously link Kali Yuga to the health challenge within
my household as my Mother encounters the vissitudes of old age. But often
chanted Mantra together with Vaishnava music relieve and
comfort her stress. (a brush with pneumonia in August).
My path:
A) Bhagavad Gita references to Brahman are many. BG 14.26 defines the
Impersonal Brahman. What Srila Prabhupada sets out here shows me much
to know about this initial stage.
B) Is it not that God settled the question in the Gita :- that a Supreme
PERSONALITY GOD Bhagavan is where it is at for humankind. But there are
the stages on the way first.
C)The question I imagine a lot of Western people pose at some time in their
lives plain proof of the existence of God. This was brought to His Divine Grace
AC Bhaktivedanta Srila Prabhupada on several occasions.(in a mechanistic
Industrially swamped world)
C,i
I had seen a video in which Joseph Campbell (US comparative religions
academic) attempted to engage (and this is his own account) a Catholic Priest
thus :-Were the proof of the existence of God unnecessary I suppose there would
be no need for FAITH. Campbell said this was the end of the budding friendship
he had with the Priest, (they had bumped into each other execising at a Gymn)..
... logic/Philosophy this time (not evolution theory ) trampling the personal
(would one sensibly do so to a serious friend) .
Cii
Srila Prabhupada’s response to a question from the crowd at Bombay Pandal
in 1977 (when he was quite frail AND the crowd huge) when asked to show
the existence of God using logic (and that God was not just a concept) shows
I believe the depth and lifelong God Realized adept he was. Our Spiritual Master
first wanted to know was the questioner knowledgeable in logic, what logic
(what kind of logic){ the vedic terms for this being at least threefold I learn#. Vedic
thought then, has a sophistication and perhaps a difference from any Greek
formulation}Srila Prabhupada said (Prabhupada LilAmrta pages 545-546):-
HDG:” You do not know logic. You have to learn logic.”
Again the questioner pressed: “….. I want it logically”
HDG:”But you have to learn how to know it. There is master. Just like that
you cannot prove logically that without father there is child. Prabhupada
explained that everything we see is growing out of the earth, and the earth
is described in the Vedas as the mother. But there cannot be child without a
father; where there is mother and child there must be father. God therefore
is the father of everything.”
Ciii
From a Northern UK Krsna Consciousness website:-
http://www.harekrishnasociety.com/answers-to-the-question-why-is-there
-no-tangible-proof-of-god/
“ 5) His holiness Srila Prabhupada proves the existence of a supreme controller
-God: "Why is death forced upon me?" Nobody wants miserable conditions
of life,but miserable conditions of life are forced upon me. So first of all, I should
inquire, "I do not want these things. Who is forcing these things upon me?"
"Who has made this law? Who is forcing these things upon me?" After you
make this inquiry, then you can inquire about God's actual identity and your
actual identity. But first of all, you must be aware of your situation–that these
miserable conditions are being forced upon you. “
This is the same point that a young devotee offered in answer to Urmila
devi dasi’s quickfire question at last summer’s retreat at new Gupta
Vraja (and he recalled it most succcinctly). Urmila dd agreeing commented
that usually one hears:
‘..why do bad things happen to good people(if there is a God)...’.
So the Vedic ancients had this settled long since???...!!!
….law of karma.. the hand of God
your servant
Tamalavan das
# from wikipedia:
Pramanas (ie proofs a means of gaining knowledge in the Samkya School-
one of six schools of Vedic philosophy):
1)pratyaksa (perception) literally prat (directly) aksa (eyes)
2)anumana(inference)
3)sabda or aptavacana (word testimony, of reliable sources)
PS: Many of Western training have during the course of their lifes’ work
have affirmed GOD (whereas in training they would not necessarily have
that conviction). The yearly senior special guest devotees who address us
at summer retreat (many of whom however have had early acceptance ),
and of course you Guru Maharaja.
Other well known examples:
Albert Einstein “Raffiniert is der Mein Herr Gott, aber boschaft ist der
nicht “ -(-translates as God made the universe fine, and not maliciously)
-Albert had just become famous successfully predicting early in the 20th
century that astronomers would see light from distant stars hidden by
large heavenly bodies out in the universe, it having bent around the
obstruction by gravity.
The Austrian physchoanalyst Carl Jung after years of mental hospital hospital work found
that matters of Soul and God were one of the only ways back from mental
disturbances amongst his patients(he read widely of the Vedas).
Alan Marston founder of NZ planet television www.pl.net trained as as a
philosoher now freely acknowledges in a video I have seen that religions are far
more attractive to folk than intellectualistic philosophy.
Tarakeshvara Das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances! All glories to Srila Prabhupada and your lotus feet!
On this auspicious day of your appearance, please allow me to offer my deepest gratitude to you! I am made of your mercy only. Without your mercy, my existence is no better than a walking dead body. Dominated by the powerful maya, there won’t be any tinge of hope for me to see the reality without the torchlight of your mercy. You are like the cloud of the rainy season, pouring out your mercy unconditionally and lavishly. A fallen soul like me certainly does not deserve your mercy at all. Being a life-after-life member of the miser club, I don’t have any taste for the transcendental nectar and my life-after-life mission has been getting a drop of illusionary water from the temporary mirage. With a negative piety account, even compassionate sadhus won’t try to get close to me. But out of your matchless mercy, I am able to personally hear and chant the vibrations of the holy name of Krishna, which are relished by the topmost transcendentalists. It is you who bestow this great fortune upon me before I have any qualifications. You give out freely not only your own mercy, but also the mercy from the storage house of parampara, stockpiled by panca-tattva. The more mercy you take out of the storage house, the more mercy is available from the storage house. This is the real mystic power of genuine Bhakti yogis, who are beyond the clutch of three material modes of nature. They have no business in this material world except for widely opening the door of the mercy storage house for the suffering conditioned souls. I owe my eternity to you! Without you, what is the use of my eternity rotten in this shadowy world!
From the rainfall of your mercy, the bhakti seed in the garden of my heart gets a chance to sprout. But there are so many obstacles in the gardening task. The weeds grow wildly with the nourishment of the contaminated mind. The mad elephants trample around under the command of the false ego. The bhakti creeper is so fragile alone. This invincible illusive energy of Krishna can never be conquered by my personal strength, fame, wealth, knowledge, beauty or renunciation. Neither can my countrymen, ancestors, family, friends, wife or children help me with this gardening war. They are all like the fallible soldiers that are destined to be vanquished by time. There is danger at every step in this material world. The greatest danger is losing on the battlefield of consciousness to the cunning maya. Since all my fallible soldiers cannot help me, the only protection I can get lies in serving the dust of your lotus feet. Therefore, I beg for the shade from the dust of your lotus feet! Driven by the desire to become a fake enjoyer, I have been straying between species since time immemorial. Now I want to start my real career as a beggar. I hope it is better late than never. A beggar can only live on the mercy of others and I only long for your mercy. On this auspicious day, my only benediction wish is to fulfill my career ambition to become a sincere beggar of the service to your lotus feet eternally!
Your begging servant,
Tarakeshvara Das
Please accept my humble obeisances! All glories to Srila Prabhupada and your lotus feet!
On this auspicious day of your appearance, please allow me to offer my deepest gratitude to you! I am made of your mercy only. Without your mercy, my existence is no better than a walking dead body. Dominated by the powerful maya, there won’t be any tinge of hope for me to see the reality without the torchlight of your mercy. You are like the cloud of the rainy season, pouring out your mercy unconditionally and lavishly. A fallen soul like me certainly does not deserve your mercy at all. Being a life-after-life member of the miser club, I don’t have any taste for the transcendental nectar and my life-after-life mission has been getting a drop of illusionary water from the temporary mirage. With a negative piety account, even compassionate sadhus won’t try to get close to me. But out of your matchless mercy, I am able to personally hear and chant the vibrations of the holy name of Krishna, which are relished by the topmost transcendentalists. It is you who bestow this great fortune upon me before I have any qualifications. You give out freely not only your own mercy, but also the mercy from the storage house of parampara, stockpiled by panca-tattva. The more mercy you take out of the storage house, the more mercy is available from the storage house. This is the real mystic power of genuine Bhakti yogis, who are beyond the clutch of three material modes of nature. They have no business in this material world except for widely opening the door of the mercy storage house for the suffering conditioned souls. I owe my eternity to you! Without you, what is the use of my eternity rotten in this shadowy world!
From the rainfall of your mercy, the bhakti seed in the garden of my heart gets a chance to sprout. But there are so many obstacles in the gardening task. The weeds grow wildly with the nourishment of the contaminated mind. The mad elephants trample around under the command of the false ego. The bhakti creeper is so fragile alone. This invincible illusive energy of Krishna can never be conquered by my personal strength, fame, wealth, knowledge, beauty or renunciation. Neither can my countrymen, ancestors, family, friends, wife or children help me with this gardening war. They are all like the fallible soldiers that are destined to be vanquished by time. There is danger at every step in this material world. The greatest danger is losing on the battlefield of consciousness to the cunning maya. Since all my fallible soldiers cannot help me, the only protection I can get lies in serving the dust of your lotus feet. Therefore, I beg for the shade from the dust of your lotus feet! Driven by the desire to become a fake enjoyer, I have been straying between species since time immemorial. Now I want to start my real career as a beggar. I hope it is better late than never. A beggar can only live on the mercy of others and I only long for your mercy. On this auspicious day, my only benediction wish is to fulfill my career ambition to become a sincere beggar of the service to your lotus feet eternally!
Your begging servant,
Tarakeshvara Das
Tarun
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Thank you so much for helping me to realise the actual value of spiritual knowledge in my life. I felt so blessed the first day when I met you and you asked me to continue chanting and start reading Bhagavad-Gita. So I did fallow your instructions. So far by fallowing these institutions I am becoming happier and the association of devotees is helping me progress in Krishna consciousness.
Please always have your mercy on me. Looking forward to see you and to attend your incredible Kirtan.
Thank you
Your servant,
Tarun
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
Thank you so much for helping me to realise the actual value of spiritual knowledge in my life. I felt so blessed the first day when I met you and you asked me to continue chanting and start reading Bhagavad-Gita. So I did fallow your instructions. So far by fallowing these institutions I am becoming happier and the association of devotees is helping me progress in Krishna consciousness.
Please always have your mercy on me. Looking forward to see you and to attend your incredible Kirtan.
Thank you
Your servant,
Tarun
Vaishnava Charan Das and Yasomati Dasi
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept our humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to you Gurudeva,
It is such an undeserved priviledge that you take genuine interest in our lives Gurudeva.
You are so consistent:
Year after year you continue to visit Melbourne and allow us a chance to step outside our selfish existence and do something to assist you in reaching out to others through the retreats and preaching programs.
In your presence we find strength and intelligence to serve.
You are consistently teaching by example that chanting Hare Krishna is where it's at. Even with multiple responsibilities in the afternoons after lunch in Melbourne you often chant more rounds with intensity.
You are focussed on service, the embodiment of Srila Prabhupada's purport opening line to text 3 of Nectar of Instruction:
"Devotional service is not a matter of sentimental speculation or imaginative ecstacy -its substance is practical activity"
Your words through your lectures bring hope and solace that all internal and external challenges can be taken care of through putting our minds and senses into devtional service.
You give us hope as you look at us in terms of service, always grateful for our feeble attempts in the past and seeing our potential for serving in the future.
You are always ready to personally guide us in our individual situations with such clarity and sensitivity, always wanting to give us the very best.
The tragedy and embarrasment is in our failure to properly reciprocate all the kindness and care that you show us and us not taking your instructions. Please give us the strength to be serious and sincere in our service.
Your aspiring servants,
Vaishnava Charan Das and Yasomati Devi Dasi
Please accept our humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada,
All glories to you Gurudeva,
It is such an undeserved priviledge that you take genuine interest in our lives Gurudeva.
You are so consistent:
Year after year you continue to visit Melbourne and allow us a chance to step outside our selfish existence and do something to assist you in reaching out to others through the retreats and preaching programs.
In your presence we find strength and intelligence to serve.
You are consistently teaching by example that chanting Hare Krishna is where it's at. Even with multiple responsibilities in the afternoons after lunch in Melbourne you often chant more rounds with intensity.
You are focussed on service, the embodiment of Srila Prabhupada's purport opening line to text 3 of Nectar of Instruction:
"Devotional service is not a matter of sentimental speculation or imaginative ecstacy -its substance is practical activity"
Your words through your lectures bring hope and solace that all internal and external challenges can be taken care of through putting our minds and senses into devtional service.
You give us hope as you look at us in terms of service, always grateful for our feeble attempts in the past and seeing our potential for serving in the future.
You are always ready to personally guide us in our individual situations with such clarity and sensitivity, always wanting to give us the very best.
The tragedy and embarrasment is in our failure to properly reciprocate all the kindness and care that you show us and us not taking your instructions. Please give us the strength to be serious and sincere in our service.
Your aspiring servants,
Vaishnava Charan Das and Yasomati Devi Dasi
Vanamali Gopal Das
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you on this day of your appearance.
That someone can give up everything material - riches, fame and youth for the betterment of others is truly unfathomable! Like a superhero, you fly around the globe and save people from the clutches of maya by asking them to simply follow the process of bhakti. Your love and compassion can even melt a stone. This way, you soften hard hearted conditioned souls and then with your sharp words, you mould them to be a better human being and ultimately a better servant of Krishna. You painstakingly mould our lives without seeking any return. As Srila Prabhupada says, “Such a pure devotee of Kṛṣṇa is not selfish, thinking he alone will enjoy the benefits of surrendering to Lord Kṛṣṇa's lotus feet. Rather, he tries to attract everyone in the world to Lord Kṛṣṇa, and by this effort he becomes known as a mahātmā, a magnanimous soul. Such magnanimous souls are truly rare.”. I’m still trying to get my head around how fortunate I am to somehow come in contact with such a rare personality as yourself.
Srila Prabhupada says in SB 3.21.17: “By the grace of the spiritual master the cloud of the mercy of the Personality of Godhead is brought in, and then only, when the rains of Krishna consciousness fall, can the fire of material existence be extinguished.” Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura says, “If we take shelter of the lotus feet of the spiritual master, we can become free from illusion, fear and distress. If we wholeheartedly beg for his mercy without any deceit then the spiritual master bestows all auspiciousness upon us.”. Dear Gurudev, I simply beg for your mercy so that the fire of material existence may be extinguished. I sincerely pray for your mercy.
You servant
Vanamali Gopala das
Please accept my humble obeisances
All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you on this day of your appearance.
That someone can give up everything material - riches, fame and youth for the betterment of others is truly unfathomable! Like a superhero, you fly around the globe and save people from the clutches of maya by asking them to simply follow the process of bhakti. Your love and compassion can even melt a stone. This way, you soften hard hearted conditioned souls and then with your sharp words, you mould them to be a better human being and ultimately a better servant of Krishna. You painstakingly mould our lives without seeking any return. As Srila Prabhupada says, “Such a pure devotee of Kṛṣṇa is not selfish, thinking he alone will enjoy the benefits of surrendering to Lord Kṛṣṇa's lotus feet. Rather, he tries to attract everyone in the world to Lord Kṛṣṇa, and by this effort he becomes known as a mahātmā, a magnanimous soul. Such magnanimous souls are truly rare.”. I’m still trying to get my head around how fortunate I am to somehow come in contact with such a rare personality as yourself.
Srila Prabhupada says in SB 3.21.17: “By the grace of the spiritual master the cloud of the mercy of the Personality of Godhead is brought in, and then only, when the rains of Krishna consciousness fall, can the fire of material existence be extinguished.” Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura says, “If we take shelter of the lotus feet of the spiritual master, we can become free from illusion, fear and distress. If we wholeheartedly beg for his mercy without any deceit then the spiritual master bestows all auspiciousness upon us.”. Dear Gurudev, I simply beg for your mercy so that the fire of material existence may be extinguished. I sincerely pray for your mercy.
You servant
Vanamali Gopala das
Varangi Radha Devi dasi
Dear Guru Maharaj,
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance!
This year has been one of care, growth and connection. It has been a sort of a year-long meditation about how to practically and sustainably inject and maintain Krishna consciousness in the everyday life of an ordinary western practitioner. As I look back, I series of events come to mind that serve as examples of your amazing qualities that have influenced my life so much.
Gurudev, it would be foolish to only list three of the unlimited wonderful qualities you possess, but for the sake of length and time, I will only focus on the three that have left a profound impact in my life this year: 1. Caring; 2. Merciful; and, 3. Selflessly working for the welfare of others.
Caring: The first meaning of “care” in the dictionary is: a state of mind in which one is troubled; worry, anxiety, or concern. You are troubled by spiritual newborns, like myself, who are completely blind, untrained and with a track record that makes it difficult for anyone to take up the heavy burden of becoming her teacher. Yet, you have not only cared for me tirelessly, continuously and lovingly, but you do this with thousands upon thousands other boys and girls that Krishna has sent and continues to send you. You spend time guiding, blessing and teaching as if you had unlimited time, simply because you truly care. In this way, you teach me how to care for myself first and then care for others in the form of service, quality relationships and collaboration. Your worry, anxiety and concern are not of this material world. I cannot fully comprehend what “care” truly means because I have not yet developed the proper vision to see it, much less to adopt it, but when I see you caring for us, I am able to see how vital this quality is in the development and sustainability of a spiritual practice. Your ability to fully care for us and simultaneously be detached from the outcome of our choices is a miracle that daily reminds me of the power of this process and it inspires me to dedicate my life to cultivate this beautiful quality that is so natural in you.
Merciful: Although you have already conquered everything that is worth living for, Krishna, you offer your life, day after day, to planting the seed of devotional service in as many gardens as possible, without discrimination or hesitation. Some gardens are covered with arid soils and others are ready to cultivate this precious gift, yet, your only prerequisite is that there is a garden and not the quality of its soil. Similarly, my heart was an arid, hard and lifeless garden, but you have found one grain of fertile soil in which to plant the seed of devotion. Even though the state in which my heart was when you found it was enough to deter anyone from even trying to plant anything worthy of the effort, you instead saw a tiny grain that had the possibility of changing the entire quality of the garden, and cultivated it. Your mercy is the greatest expression of love. Thank you for only seeing my potential and teaching me how to focus on it and to grow it so that one day I can plant the seed in another, apparently arid, garden.
Selflessly working for the welfare of others: One boy and girl at a time, one loft at a time, one farming community at a time, one preaching center at a time, one university program at a time, one book at a time…you have selflessly plowed the hearts of many around the world to cultivate our connection with Krishna. This labor of love has established shelters, communities and quality people that have now joined the army of Gaura Nitai. Thank you for teaching by example, the great importance of community building through the cultivation of practitioners and aspirant practitioners. Thank you for teaching by example, the meaning of caring, inspiring and continuing to share with anyone and everyone how to be happy, truly happy. Your selfless offering, does not go in vain and it is my deepest desire to one day try to repay this unpayable debt in this field of devotional service.
You have not only changed my life, but you continue to maintain, supply and care for my spiritual wellbeing which is a miracle that inspires me to continue working towards developing the right vision, to truly see your presence here as a direct expression of Krishna in this material world.
With gratitude,
Your aspirant servant, Varangi Radha Devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada! All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance!
This year has been one of care, growth and connection. It has been a sort of a year-long meditation about how to practically and sustainably inject and maintain Krishna consciousness in the everyday life of an ordinary western practitioner. As I look back, I series of events come to mind that serve as examples of your amazing qualities that have influenced my life so much.
Gurudev, it would be foolish to only list three of the unlimited wonderful qualities you possess, but for the sake of length and time, I will only focus on the three that have left a profound impact in my life this year: 1. Caring; 2. Merciful; and, 3. Selflessly working for the welfare of others.
Caring: The first meaning of “care” in the dictionary is: a state of mind in which one is troubled; worry, anxiety, or concern. You are troubled by spiritual newborns, like myself, who are completely blind, untrained and with a track record that makes it difficult for anyone to take up the heavy burden of becoming her teacher. Yet, you have not only cared for me tirelessly, continuously and lovingly, but you do this with thousands upon thousands other boys and girls that Krishna has sent and continues to send you. You spend time guiding, blessing and teaching as if you had unlimited time, simply because you truly care. In this way, you teach me how to care for myself first and then care for others in the form of service, quality relationships and collaboration. Your worry, anxiety and concern are not of this material world. I cannot fully comprehend what “care” truly means because I have not yet developed the proper vision to see it, much less to adopt it, but when I see you caring for us, I am able to see how vital this quality is in the development and sustainability of a spiritual practice. Your ability to fully care for us and simultaneously be detached from the outcome of our choices is a miracle that daily reminds me of the power of this process and it inspires me to dedicate my life to cultivate this beautiful quality that is so natural in you.
Merciful: Although you have already conquered everything that is worth living for, Krishna, you offer your life, day after day, to planting the seed of devotional service in as many gardens as possible, without discrimination or hesitation. Some gardens are covered with arid soils and others are ready to cultivate this precious gift, yet, your only prerequisite is that there is a garden and not the quality of its soil. Similarly, my heart was an arid, hard and lifeless garden, but you have found one grain of fertile soil in which to plant the seed of devotion. Even though the state in which my heart was when you found it was enough to deter anyone from even trying to plant anything worthy of the effort, you instead saw a tiny grain that had the possibility of changing the entire quality of the garden, and cultivated it. Your mercy is the greatest expression of love. Thank you for only seeing my potential and teaching me how to focus on it and to grow it so that one day I can plant the seed in another, apparently arid, garden.
Selflessly working for the welfare of others: One boy and girl at a time, one loft at a time, one farming community at a time, one preaching center at a time, one university program at a time, one book at a time…you have selflessly plowed the hearts of many around the world to cultivate our connection with Krishna. This labor of love has established shelters, communities and quality people that have now joined the army of Gaura Nitai. Thank you for teaching by example, the great importance of community building through the cultivation of practitioners and aspirant practitioners. Thank you for teaching by example, the meaning of caring, inspiring and continuing to share with anyone and everyone how to be happy, truly happy. Your selfless offering, does not go in vain and it is my deepest desire to one day try to repay this unpayable debt in this field of devotional service.
You have not only changed my life, but you continue to maintain, supply and care for my spiritual wellbeing which is a miracle that inspires me to continue working towards developing the right vision, to truly see your presence here as a direct expression of Krishna in this material world.
With gratitude,
Your aspirant servant, Varangi Radha Devi dasi
Venkata Brahmanandarao
Om Namao Vishnu Padaya, KRSNA prastaya Bhutale, Sri DevaMrtSwami iti namine.
Om Agnan Timirandhasya, Gnanjana salakhaya, Chakshur unnimilatam yean, Tasmay Sri DevaMRTSwamyGURAvenamah.
All glories assemble to AC_BHAKTIVENDATA_SWAMY & KRSNA.
Thank you so much, Swamy ji.
AspritingServant,
Venkata Brahmanandarao Nelluri.
Om Agnan Timirandhasya, Gnanjana salakhaya, Chakshur unnimilatam yean, Tasmay Sri DevaMRTSwamyGURAvenamah.
All glories assemble to AC_BHAKTIVENDATA_SWAMY & KRSNA.
Thank you so much, Swamy ji.
AspritingServant,
Venkata Brahmanandarao Nelluri.
Vinita devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
"The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy. Just as a cloud pours water on a forest fire to extinguish it, so the spiritual master delivers the materially afflicted world by extinguishing the blazing fire of material existence. I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master, who is an ocean of auspicious qualities."
Thank you for everything you do to deliver this materially afflicted world, sharing your ocean of auspicious qualities. Travelling throughout the world, you undergo so many austerities, but you always remain fixed in your determination to spread and nurture Krishna Consciousness. You give so much mercy to the fallen souls of Kali-yuga, who would otherwise have no hope. Amidst severe, increasing and ongoing disturbances, you're giving people inconceivable relief and genuine hope for the future, providing the most precious opportunity to be engaged in devotional service. In this way, the fallen and lost souls of this age can purify their hearts and find their eternal spiritual identity as loving servants of Krishna, the all-attractive Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Thank you for being so expert in preaching. So knowledgeable, so practical, having an amazing sense of humour, and being so amazingly sincere. Your lectures are such expert wake up calls, helping us to see reality and giving an abundance of spiritual knowledge and understanding. And your kirtanas are so heart warming and inspiring.
Lastly, but of inconceivable significance, thank you for providing and facilitating devotee care. This is so essential for the sustainability of a Krishna Consciousness life. Being a very fortunate recipient of this care over many years, I'm finally starting to feel stable and well, which is something I didn't think was possible considering the depth of my anartas. But with your genuine care and continued mercy, those anartas are finally starting to fade, for which I'm eternally grateful.
I pray that I can always remain at your lotus feet, in the association of those who serve you.
Your aspiring servant,
Vinita devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this auspicious day of your appearance.
"The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy. Just as a cloud pours water on a forest fire to extinguish it, so the spiritual master delivers the materially afflicted world by extinguishing the blazing fire of material existence. I offer my respectful obeisances unto the lotus feet of such a spiritual master, who is an ocean of auspicious qualities."
Thank you for everything you do to deliver this materially afflicted world, sharing your ocean of auspicious qualities. Travelling throughout the world, you undergo so many austerities, but you always remain fixed in your determination to spread and nurture Krishna Consciousness. You give so much mercy to the fallen souls of Kali-yuga, who would otherwise have no hope. Amidst severe, increasing and ongoing disturbances, you're giving people inconceivable relief and genuine hope for the future, providing the most precious opportunity to be engaged in devotional service. In this way, the fallen and lost souls of this age can purify their hearts and find their eternal spiritual identity as loving servants of Krishna, the all-attractive Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Thank you for being so expert in preaching. So knowledgeable, so practical, having an amazing sense of humour, and being so amazingly sincere. Your lectures are such expert wake up calls, helping us to see reality and giving an abundance of spiritual knowledge and understanding. And your kirtanas are so heart warming and inspiring.
Lastly, but of inconceivable significance, thank you for providing and facilitating devotee care. This is so essential for the sustainability of a Krishna Consciousness life. Being a very fortunate recipient of this care over many years, I'm finally starting to feel stable and well, which is something I didn't think was possible considering the depth of my anartas. But with your genuine care and continued mercy, those anartas are finally starting to fade, for which I'm eternally grateful.
I pray that I can always remain at your lotus feet, in the association of those who serve you.
Your aspiring servant,
Vinita devi dasi
Vinoda Kovida Das
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you gurudeva.
If I look back on my life 10 years ago, I can honestly say I never would have expected that I would be where I am today. I was headed down quite a different path. With the talents and skills that Krishna had given me, I had hopes for obtaining stardom, riches and so many other nefarious things to produce an artificial sense of meaning in my life. When I first came in touch with ISKCON and Srila Prabhupada's mercy, my life was thrown onto a vastly different course, although I was quite unsure as to where exactly it was going. It was only when I came in touch with you that my life started to move in a definite direction, quite opposed to what I had originally intended.
From the beginning, you have urged me to take hold of my life, engage in devotional service and go back home, back to Godhead. Simultaneously you have shown me that to do that I must have absolute surrender, dependence and obedience to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga. You have patiently tolerated me and encouraged me towards the perfection of my life.
Today, I look at the life I am leading and I am simply amazed at what I see. Every day I am blessed with unlimited opportunities to serve Krishna, associate with His devotees, chant His names and hear His glories. There are unlimited opportunities to serve in this divine mission. Now, instead of thoughts of sense gratification flooding my mind, I am seeing thoughts of the sankirtan movement and how to benefit the world, come forth. And as you once said "Krishna's plan greatly outweighs maya's plan". Although I see I am completely incompetent to do anything of real value for this movement, I am determined to try because I know there is no better engagement for me. My heart is filled with gratitude that I am in some way connected to this divine mission. I have been given an opportunity to use all that has been given to me for the purpose it was meant to be used. What could be a more adventurous, exciting and opulent life that one that is surrendered to the mission of the Lord Chaitanya?
Gurdeva, I can only thank YOU for placing me in such a fortunate positon. It is simply your mercy that has steered my life in a hopeful direction. How else can such a great fortune be bestowed on such an insignificant soul such as myself. My constant prayer is that I can act in harmony with your will.
As it is well known, the word "Guru" means "Heavy". The guru is not meant to simply pat the disciple on the head and send him on his way after giving him a name. His mercy is manifest in the weight of his instructions. Thank you for all your merciful instructions and especially your soft but precise and piercing chastisements. Thank you for challenging me to stand on my own two feet and to be proactive with my life by taking determined steps towards Krishna. I can see now, how all you have ever given me has been mercy. I pray that I will be able to become a true disciple sold out to you, with firm faith in your lotus feet.
As I try to understand the extent of your glorious qualities, I remember the following famous prayers of our acharyas:
"The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy and, like a rain cloud he is distributing it throughout the blazing fire of the material world."
(Sri Guruvastakam 1)
Gurudeva, you are a perfect conduit of the unlimited mercy coming from Srila Prabhupada and I am confident if I can simply remain at your feet, I will also receive that mercy.
"Attachment to his lotus feet is my ultimate goal"
(Guru Vandana 2)
Although I am not properly established as a true disciple, I still hold attachment to, and firm faith in your feet as my ultimate goal. This gives me great hope.
"O Gurudeva, Please give me just a drop of your mercy and make me humbler than a blade of grass."
(Gurudeva 1)
Your mercy has manifested by your incredible ability to crush my false pride and show me my real identity as a humble servant of the servant.
"I am chasing behind you, calling 'Krishna, Krishna!'"
(O He Vaishnava Takhura)
Gurudeva, when I look at what your are doing to serve Srila Prabhupada, I am simply amazed. All I can do is run after your example and pray that I don't lose sight of you. You are my guiding light in this dark age of Kali and I pray that during this brief life, I can render some sincere service to you. All glories to your divine grace.
Your grateful servant,
Vinoda Kovida Das
Please accept my prostrated obeisances at your lotus feet. All glories to Srila Prabhupada and all glories to you gurudeva.
If I look back on my life 10 years ago, I can honestly say I never would have expected that I would be where I am today. I was headed down quite a different path. With the talents and skills that Krishna had given me, I had hopes for obtaining stardom, riches and so many other nefarious things to produce an artificial sense of meaning in my life. When I first came in touch with ISKCON and Srila Prabhupada's mercy, my life was thrown onto a vastly different course, although I was quite unsure as to where exactly it was going. It was only when I came in touch with you that my life started to move in a definite direction, quite opposed to what I had originally intended.
From the beginning, you have urged me to take hold of my life, engage in devotional service and go back home, back to Godhead. Simultaneously you have shown me that to do that I must have absolute surrender, dependence and obedience to Sri Sri Guru and Gauranga. You have patiently tolerated me and encouraged me towards the perfection of my life.
Today, I look at the life I am leading and I am simply amazed at what I see. Every day I am blessed with unlimited opportunities to serve Krishna, associate with His devotees, chant His names and hear His glories. There are unlimited opportunities to serve in this divine mission. Now, instead of thoughts of sense gratification flooding my mind, I am seeing thoughts of the sankirtan movement and how to benefit the world, come forth. And as you once said "Krishna's plan greatly outweighs maya's plan". Although I see I am completely incompetent to do anything of real value for this movement, I am determined to try because I know there is no better engagement for me. My heart is filled with gratitude that I am in some way connected to this divine mission. I have been given an opportunity to use all that has been given to me for the purpose it was meant to be used. What could be a more adventurous, exciting and opulent life that one that is surrendered to the mission of the Lord Chaitanya?
Gurdeva, I can only thank YOU for placing me in such a fortunate positon. It is simply your mercy that has steered my life in a hopeful direction. How else can such a great fortune be bestowed on such an insignificant soul such as myself. My constant prayer is that I can act in harmony with your will.
As it is well known, the word "Guru" means "Heavy". The guru is not meant to simply pat the disciple on the head and send him on his way after giving him a name. His mercy is manifest in the weight of his instructions. Thank you for all your merciful instructions and especially your soft but precise and piercing chastisements. Thank you for challenging me to stand on my own two feet and to be proactive with my life by taking determined steps towards Krishna. I can see now, how all you have ever given me has been mercy. I pray that I will be able to become a true disciple sold out to you, with firm faith in your lotus feet.
As I try to understand the extent of your glorious qualities, I remember the following famous prayers of our acharyas:
"The spiritual master is receiving benediction from the ocean of mercy and, like a rain cloud he is distributing it throughout the blazing fire of the material world."
(Sri Guruvastakam 1)
Gurudeva, you are a perfect conduit of the unlimited mercy coming from Srila Prabhupada and I am confident if I can simply remain at your feet, I will also receive that mercy.
"Attachment to his lotus feet is my ultimate goal"
(Guru Vandana 2)
Although I am not properly established as a true disciple, I still hold attachment to, and firm faith in your feet as my ultimate goal. This gives me great hope.
"O Gurudeva, Please give me just a drop of your mercy and make me humbler than a blade of grass."
(Gurudeva 1)
Your mercy has manifested by your incredible ability to crush my false pride and show me my real identity as a humble servant of the servant.
"I am chasing behind you, calling 'Krishna, Krishna!'"
(O He Vaishnava Takhura)
Gurudeva, when I look at what your are doing to serve Srila Prabhupada, I am simply amazed. All I can do is run after your example and pray that I don't lose sight of you. You are my guiding light in this dark age of Kali and I pray that during this brief life, I can render some sincere service to you. All glories to your divine grace.
Your grateful servant,
Vinoda Kovida Das
Viracandra Dasa
Namo Om Visnu Padaya Krsna Presthaya Bhutale
Srimate Devamrita Swami iti namine
Pracare purva-dakshyam ca –
bhaktcara pravinata
Prarathatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
In CC Adi-Lila it is mentioned:-
jīve sākṣāt nāhi tāte guru caittya-rūpe
śikṣā-guru haya kṛṣṇa-mahānta-svarūpe
Translation : - Since one cannot visually experience the presence of the Supersoul, He appears before us as a liberated devotee. Such a spiritual master is none other than Kṛṣṇa Himself.
Gururdev, we celebrate many festivals every year but Your Vyasa puja is one of those auspicious day that I look forward to it every year. This is such an auspicious and glorious and merciful day that an insignifant person like me, even though not qualified, gets a chance to glorify you.
As you know that I broke my knee ligament in November last year, I was not able to do much services in temple and I was contemplating on what can I do and how can I engage myself in Krishna’s service? But before my mind started playing, I realised that our Boat Cruise program will be happening in January and I can just sit on the bench and keep distributing flyers to our guests who are coming in temple.
That time I was just thinking that how merciful you are, that you are engaging us in Krishna’s service, no matter in whatever situation we are in.
After the surgery during my recovery time, I was getting so much inspired hearing your lectures. I really like the seminar that you gave on “Seing Vrindavan through the eyes of Uddhava”. Since the beginning of my Krishna consciousness, I liked the philosophy in Krishna Consciousness and I have put more emphasis on Philosophy always but after listening to your seminar, I realised that philosophy is there to help us to know Krishna and very importantly to have love for Krishna.
In March this year, we had a great event at Melbourne University “EVENT HAPPINESS 2017” conducted by you. I was flabbergasted to see that we had an audience of about 600 people and the hall was overly packed. 95% of the audience was western and everyone was appreciative after the event. There were at least 50 people standing in the queue to get your autograph on your book “Hiding in an unnatural happiness”.
Then we had another follow up program of that event. It amazes me how much effort you put in order to save fallen souls like myself.
Krishna says that there is no one dearer to me than one who preaches this message of Bhagvad Gita. This makes me think that how much dear you would be to Krishna because your whole life, you have been tirelessly spreading this message of Bhagvad Gita throughout the world.
In one of your visit in Melbourne this year, I got an opportunity to come to airport to pick you up. I was sitting at the back seat in the car and reading in my Ipad. You asked me what I am reading and I replied I am reading Srimad Bhagavatam. Then to my surprise, you asked me you read out for you. At first I was a bit nervous but then I kept reading. While reading, I was desiring that may this trip never come to an end. It reminded me of Srila Prabhupada asking his disciple to read for him. I was so ecstatic that day that I felt like I don’t want anything else in my life.
Later, when I shared this experience with one of my God brother, he made me realise that how Guru knows everything about his disciples. He knows that I like reading for other devotees because it helps me to focus more on what I am reading.
I had another experience where I realised that how Guru knows everything about his disciple's heart. When I came to know that this year your vyasapuja celebration is on 26th September and you are leaving Melbbourne on the same day. I was very sad after hearing it. Then I asked Gopavrindesa Prabhu that why can't we request Gurudev, if we can celebrate his Vyasa puja on 25th September in Melbourne? Then 4 days later I came to know that You have agreed to have the vyasapuja in Melbourne on Aniruddha Prabhu's request. I am really thankful to HG Aniruddha Prabhu for arranging this event. Thank you so much Gurudev for giving us this amazing opportunity of celebrating your Vyasapuja in your presence and that too straight after the retreat program. I can imagine how intense it would be for you. Thank you so much once again.
On this auspicious day of your appearance, I pray o Krishna to give you good health and long life, so that you can continue to deliver conditioned souls like myself.
I also beg you for your kind blessings unto me, so that I can engage myself in in your service and serve you enthusiastically.
Aspiring to be your humble servant,
Viracandra Dasa
Srimate Devamrita Swami iti namine
Pracare purva-dakshyam ca –
bhaktcara pravinata
Prarathatapi karunyam
yasya sarve ca te namah
Dear Gurudev
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
In CC Adi-Lila it is mentioned:-
jīve sākṣāt nāhi tāte guru caittya-rūpe
śikṣā-guru haya kṛṣṇa-mahānta-svarūpe
Translation : - Since one cannot visually experience the presence of the Supersoul, He appears before us as a liberated devotee. Such a spiritual master is none other than Kṛṣṇa Himself.
Gururdev, we celebrate many festivals every year but Your Vyasa puja is one of those auspicious day that I look forward to it every year. This is such an auspicious and glorious and merciful day that an insignifant person like me, even though not qualified, gets a chance to glorify you.
As you know that I broke my knee ligament in November last year, I was not able to do much services in temple and I was contemplating on what can I do and how can I engage myself in Krishna’s service? But before my mind started playing, I realised that our Boat Cruise program will be happening in January and I can just sit on the bench and keep distributing flyers to our guests who are coming in temple.
That time I was just thinking that how merciful you are, that you are engaging us in Krishna’s service, no matter in whatever situation we are in.
After the surgery during my recovery time, I was getting so much inspired hearing your lectures. I really like the seminar that you gave on “Seing Vrindavan through the eyes of Uddhava”. Since the beginning of my Krishna consciousness, I liked the philosophy in Krishna Consciousness and I have put more emphasis on Philosophy always but after listening to your seminar, I realised that philosophy is there to help us to know Krishna and very importantly to have love for Krishna.
In March this year, we had a great event at Melbourne University “EVENT HAPPINESS 2017” conducted by you. I was flabbergasted to see that we had an audience of about 600 people and the hall was overly packed. 95% of the audience was western and everyone was appreciative after the event. There were at least 50 people standing in the queue to get your autograph on your book “Hiding in an unnatural happiness”.
Then we had another follow up program of that event. It amazes me how much effort you put in order to save fallen souls like myself.
Krishna says that there is no one dearer to me than one who preaches this message of Bhagvad Gita. This makes me think that how much dear you would be to Krishna because your whole life, you have been tirelessly spreading this message of Bhagvad Gita throughout the world.
In one of your visit in Melbourne this year, I got an opportunity to come to airport to pick you up. I was sitting at the back seat in the car and reading in my Ipad. You asked me what I am reading and I replied I am reading Srimad Bhagavatam. Then to my surprise, you asked me you read out for you. At first I was a bit nervous but then I kept reading. While reading, I was desiring that may this trip never come to an end. It reminded me of Srila Prabhupada asking his disciple to read for him. I was so ecstatic that day that I felt like I don’t want anything else in my life.
Later, when I shared this experience with one of my God brother, he made me realise that how Guru knows everything about his disciples. He knows that I like reading for other devotees because it helps me to focus more on what I am reading.
I had another experience where I realised that how Guru knows everything about his disciple's heart. When I came to know that this year your vyasapuja celebration is on 26th September and you are leaving Melbbourne on the same day. I was very sad after hearing it. Then I asked Gopavrindesa Prabhu that why can't we request Gurudev, if we can celebrate his Vyasa puja on 25th September in Melbourne? Then 4 days later I came to know that You have agreed to have the vyasapuja in Melbourne on Aniruddha Prabhu's request. I am really thankful to HG Aniruddha Prabhu for arranging this event. Thank you so much Gurudev for giving us this amazing opportunity of celebrating your Vyasapuja in your presence and that too straight after the retreat program. I can imagine how intense it would be for you. Thank you so much once again.
On this auspicious day of your appearance, I pray o Krishna to give you good health and long life, so that you can continue to deliver conditioned souls like myself.
I also beg you for your kind blessings unto me, so that I can engage myself in in your service and serve you enthusiastically.
Aspiring to be your humble servant,
Viracandra Dasa
Vraja Nari dd
Dear Gurudeva
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Since over a year I have been listening to at least one of your classes every day
Class after class I heard you tirelessly appealing to those with a little intelligence to see through the eyes of knowledge how we are running towards a cliff. Your every statement is backed with scientific facts.
You leave no space for people to think that we are just believers, or even true believers.
‘Yes’, you challenge, ‘I’m am into scooper diving, you are into chanting hare Krishna, whatever floats your boat, whatever gets you through the day and night. Good on ya for having a belief that gives you meaning.’
No, scooper diving won’t solve yours or the world’s problems but Srila Prabhupadas words will.
You help people to see through the matrix of illusion, escape the mass-concentual trance, break out the cookie cutter consciousness and become an urban mystic, stop being barbecued by our ever raging fire of desire, emerge out of the habitual patterns of consumption and escape the hedonistic treadmill, miswanting at every step and stop obliterating this planet earth, including our very selves.
The world is on a suicide course and there are no solutions available.
We are living as if on two planet earth, by 250 the earth’s population will have increased to 9 billion and the 3rd world countries building up their appetite and are hungry to join the morbid and doomed party of consumerism.
Hopeless?
One leading ecologist you quoted said that the only solution is if the first world countries change their consumer habits through an internal transformation. He was asked how to do this and responded bluntly, ‘that’s not my department, I’m an ecologist’.
So indeed it looks hopeless and we are yet to witness the full impact of our exploitative behaviour .
However much research will be done, and however corrupted the results will be, lying to us that things are not so bad and all this paranoia talk is nonsense, the effects will become more and more obvious. Already now species are disappearing from this earth as rapidly as during the commence of the ice age when dinosaurs were supposedly dying out. And that’s just the beginning.
The environmental crisis is going to come there is no doubt and no one can leave the game because of interdependence.
And what to speak of the psychological and emotional crisis people are experiencing already. Mental diseases are searing high, leaving behind the physical ones. People are burned out and internally upliterated by the time they enter their 20tees, as you so often have said, everything has been done already, every kali yuga vice has been indulged in, indeed the internet and its horrific effects have swept the world. No shelter is given in this time; we can just witness the effects of the hook up culture. No family stability is provided and no family stability will ever be given.
Hopeless?
Yes, indeed.
If the world doesn’t listen to you and those propagating Srila Prahupada’s teachings, there is no hope.
There is no other hope for the people and the world other than Krishna Consciousness.
You are appealing to the intelligent: See what is going on, see we have the solutions, you don’t!
Understand the science of happiness and hold your reins.
Take a second look at your gains and losses and readjust your course.
Understand what you are missing out on.
Be humble, you do no not have no clue on how to be happy or how to love! Here are the scientific facts, and here are the Krishna Conscious solutions
You have analysed the problems and the extraordinary destructiveness of our modern society and you are proving it by knowing their stuff, i.e. quoting the authorities of the different sciences.
Showing them the holocaust you also have established shelters to escape from it. Thanks to you Wellington has a spiritual Embassy, an Island of unbelievably wonderful devotees, incredible Prasad, pumping kirtans, its own magazine and so much more.
I am stoked to be able to be part of Bhakti Lounge community and thank you very, very much for building a place where people can come to Krishna consciousness, grow in Krishna consciousness and give Krishna to others.
Thank you Gurudeva for giving us all facilities for a blissful devotional life.
Your aspiring servant,
Vraja Nari dd
Please accept my humble obeisances,
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Since over a year I have been listening to at least one of your classes every day
Class after class I heard you tirelessly appealing to those with a little intelligence to see through the eyes of knowledge how we are running towards a cliff. Your every statement is backed with scientific facts.
You leave no space for people to think that we are just believers, or even true believers.
‘Yes’, you challenge, ‘I’m am into scooper diving, you are into chanting hare Krishna, whatever floats your boat, whatever gets you through the day and night. Good on ya for having a belief that gives you meaning.’
No, scooper diving won’t solve yours or the world’s problems but Srila Prabhupadas words will.
You help people to see through the matrix of illusion, escape the mass-concentual trance, break out the cookie cutter consciousness and become an urban mystic, stop being barbecued by our ever raging fire of desire, emerge out of the habitual patterns of consumption and escape the hedonistic treadmill, miswanting at every step and stop obliterating this planet earth, including our very selves.
The world is on a suicide course and there are no solutions available.
We are living as if on two planet earth, by 250 the earth’s population will have increased to 9 billion and the 3rd world countries building up their appetite and are hungry to join the morbid and doomed party of consumerism.
Hopeless?
One leading ecologist you quoted said that the only solution is if the first world countries change their consumer habits through an internal transformation. He was asked how to do this and responded bluntly, ‘that’s not my department, I’m an ecologist’.
So indeed it looks hopeless and we are yet to witness the full impact of our exploitative behaviour .
However much research will be done, and however corrupted the results will be, lying to us that things are not so bad and all this paranoia talk is nonsense, the effects will become more and more obvious. Already now species are disappearing from this earth as rapidly as during the commence of the ice age when dinosaurs were supposedly dying out. And that’s just the beginning.
The environmental crisis is going to come there is no doubt and no one can leave the game because of interdependence.
And what to speak of the psychological and emotional crisis people are experiencing already. Mental diseases are searing high, leaving behind the physical ones. People are burned out and internally upliterated by the time they enter their 20tees, as you so often have said, everything has been done already, every kali yuga vice has been indulged in, indeed the internet and its horrific effects have swept the world. No shelter is given in this time; we can just witness the effects of the hook up culture. No family stability is provided and no family stability will ever be given.
Hopeless?
Yes, indeed.
If the world doesn’t listen to you and those propagating Srila Prahupada’s teachings, there is no hope.
There is no other hope for the people and the world other than Krishna Consciousness.
You are appealing to the intelligent: See what is going on, see we have the solutions, you don’t!
Understand the science of happiness and hold your reins.
Take a second look at your gains and losses and readjust your course.
Understand what you are missing out on.
Be humble, you do no not have no clue on how to be happy or how to love! Here are the scientific facts, and here are the Krishna Conscious solutions
You have analysed the problems and the extraordinary destructiveness of our modern society and you are proving it by knowing their stuff, i.e. quoting the authorities of the different sciences.
Showing them the holocaust you also have established shelters to escape from it. Thanks to you Wellington has a spiritual Embassy, an Island of unbelievably wonderful devotees, incredible Prasad, pumping kirtans, its own magazine and so much more.
I am stoked to be able to be part of Bhakti Lounge community and thank you very, very much for building a place where people can come to Krishna consciousness, grow in Krishna consciousness and give Krishna to others.
Thank you Gurudeva for giving us all facilities for a blissful devotional life.
Your aspiring servant,
Vraja Nari dd
Vraja Varuni Devi Dasi
Dear Srila Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your vyasa puja.
Gurudeva I wanted to truly thank you today and always for being such an inspiration and taking the time to help guide me in my spiritual life. Your schedule is so busy, you travel from country to country, arriving to give morning classes, evening classes, talks to large assemblies of people and on top of your busy schedule you have so many disciples, aspiring disciples, devotee well wishers where ever you go who want some of your time. Your time is so stretched, yet every interaction you have whether it is during question and answers or during a personal darshan, you make it very sweet and personal. You never give a generic one size fits all answer, you show us how to be personal by trying to understand each individual you speak with, seeing the potential in each individual you then take the time to inspire and help us to realise that same potential in ourselves. You also then teach us that by wanting personal relationships ourselves, we can try to understand how to develop our relationship with Krsna dealing with Him as he personally instructs in His Bhagavad Gita.
You give such profound classes which display your vast depth of spiritual realisation and knowledge, but still you then remind us of how simple it can be. Just chant Hare Krsna and read Prabhupada’s books. When I was pregnant I told you I was worried about how my sadhana would be affected once I became a mother. You told me all you wanted was for me to look after my child and somehow or other chant my 16 rounds. Since having my daughter Priya, my sadhana has certainly been tested, but your instruction has always been at the forefront of mind. The desire to not let you down is a driving force for me. Not only do I not want to let you down but I understand that you gave me that instruction because you are my well wisher and though it may sound simple to some, just chant, it is the most valuable instruction I need to come to realise. So thank you for helping me begin to realise that chanting is the glue which shapes my life and relationships and that I shouldn’t be so proud to think that anything in life can be done without Krsna’s grace. Though we give the maha mantra out freely it is only through taking shelter of a bonifide guru that we can really begin to understand the great gift which we have received, through taking shelter of your instructions I am gradually coming to understand the importance of chanting Krsna’s Holy names, a mere thank you is not enough.
I was reflecting recently that there are so many things that we have to be grateful to Srila Prabhupada for, and I am so fortunate that for me amongst those is the greatest blessing of having such a wonderful spiritual father. I feel so grateful and fortunate to have such a loving and encouraging spiritual father guiding me and my family in our spiritual lives. You are the perfect example of a pure devotee, unflinching in everything you do in your service to Srila Prabhupada.
I am so far from understanding what it means to be a devotee but I pray to always remain in your loving service birth after birth in the safety and shelter of your divine lotus feet.
With the deepest gratitude.
Your daughter and eternal servant,
Vraja Varuni Devi Dasi.
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
All glories to you on this most auspicious day of your vyasa puja.
Gurudeva I wanted to truly thank you today and always for being such an inspiration and taking the time to help guide me in my spiritual life. Your schedule is so busy, you travel from country to country, arriving to give morning classes, evening classes, talks to large assemblies of people and on top of your busy schedule you have so many disciples, aspiring disciples, devotee well wishers where ever you go who want some of your time. Your time is so stretched, yet every interaction you have whether it is during question and answers or during a personal darshan, you make it very sweet and personal. You never give a generic one size fits all answer, you show us how to be personal by trying to understand each individual you speak with, seeing the potential in each individual you then take the time to inspire and help us to realise that same potential in ourselves. You also then teach us that by wanting personal relationships ourselves, we can try to understand how to develop our relationship with Krsna dealing with Him as he personally instructs in His Bhagavad Gita.
You give such profound classes which display your vast depth of spiritual realisation and knowledge, but still you then remind us of how simple it can be. Just chant Hare Krsna and read Prabhupada’s books. When I was pregnant I told you I was worried about how my sadhana would be affected once I became a mother. You told me all you wanted was for me to look after my child and somehow or other chant my 16 rounds. Since having my daughter Priya, my sadhana has certainly been tested, but your instruction has always been at the forefront of mind. The desire to not let you down is a driving force for me. Not only do I not want to let you down but I understand that you gave me that instruction because you are my well wisher and though it may sound simple to some, just chant, it is the most valuable instruction I need to come to realise. So thank you for helping me begin to realise that chanting is the glue which shapes my life and relationships and that I shouldn’t be so proud to think that anything in life can be done without Krsna’s grace. Though we give the maha mantra out freely it is only through taking shelter of a bonifide guru that we can really begin to understand the great gift which we have received, through taking shelter of your instructions I am gradually coming to understand the importance of chanting Krsna’s Holy names, a mere thank you is not enough.
I was reflecting recently that there are so many things that we have to be grateful to Srila Prabhupada for, and I am so fortunate that for me amongst those is the greatest blessing of having such a wonderful spiritual father. I feel so grateful and fortunate to have such a loving and encouraging spiritual father guiding me and my family in our spiritual lives. You are the perfect example of a pure devotee, unflinching in everything you do in your service to Srila Prabhupada.
I am so far from understanding what it means to be a devotee but I pray to always remain in your loving service birth after birth in the safety and shelter of your divine lotus feet.
With the deepest gratitude.
Your daughter and eternal servant,
Vraja Varuni Devi Dasi.
Vraja-gopi d.d.
Dear Gurudeva, accept my humble obeisances in the dust of your lotus feet. Only by the Srila Prabhupada’s mercy can we make our attempts in chanting of the holy names, only by the mercy of parampara can we serve the Lord in this world. Only by your mercy, Gurudev, can I perform some spiritual activity. Only by your mercy I could understand great value of service. By the constant service I can feel how my heart gets purified and I experience the desire to be useful for the devotees, so that my service would bring them happiness. It all became possible in the service at the Deity kitchen. Accept these happy fruits of my service. To be useful for the devotees is a brilliant of spiritual activity.
Only by your mercy I get spiritual strength and confidence in my choosing of Krishna. Your mercy lit the fire of spiritual knowledge and dissipates the darkness of ignorance in the heart, transforming the lives of everyone who meets you directly or through your lectures and books. Thank you for your classes – they are inexhaustible source of inspiration for me. I hear them again and again and I will continue to do it again and again because your instructions are always alive.
Please let me always remember you and follow your instructions without selfish motives so that Sri Chaitanya would be satisfied with my service to your lotus feet. Let me continue to be in the society of devotees and perform whatever service, even most insignificant. Please accept on this day of your appearance all the good fruits of my service.
Eternally trying to be the servant of your servants,
Vraja-gopi d.d.
Only by your mercy I get spiritual strength and confidence in my choosing of Krishna. Your mercy lit the fire of spiritual knowledge and dissipates the darkness of ignorance in the heart, transforming the lives of everyone who meets you directly or through your lectures and books. Thank you for your classes – they are inexhaustible source of inspiration for me. I hear them again and again and I will continue to do it again and again because your instructions are always alive.
Please let me always remember you and follow your instructions without selfish motives so that Sri Chaitanya would be satisfied with my service to your lotus feet. Let me continue to be in the society of devotees and perform whatever service, even most insignificant. Please accept on this day of your appearance all the good fruits of my service.
Eternally trying to be the servant of your servants,
Vraja-gopi d.d.
Vrindaranya devi dasi
Dear Gurudeva,
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to you on this special day of your appearance.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
As I write this offering I feel how much I lack any depth of realisation, intelligence or eloquent words to properly honor your spiritual qualities and service mood.
Although, as I reflect, I realise that the quality that I really appreciate about you is your compassionate mood towards your dependents and other living beings. There is a prayer by Prahlada Maharaja to Lord Nrsimhadeva that made me think of you;
“My dear Lord Nrsimhadeva, I see that there are many saintly persons indeed but they are interested only in their own deliverance. Not caring for the big cities and towns, they go to the Himalayas or the forest to meditate with vows of silence (manu-vrata).They are not interested in delivering others. As for me, however, I do not wish to be liberated alone, leaving aside all these poor fools and rascals. I know that without Krsna consciousness, without taking shelter of Your lotus feet, one cannot be happy. Therefore I wish to bring them back to shelter at Your lotus feet.”
We live in a time in society, when information about our spiritual identity and life's purpose is practically non-existent. Of course there are philanthropic societies and so-called spiritual organisations who unfortunately misguide people from the privilege and purpose of having a human birth.
It is rare to come across someone who puts aside their own self interest for the upliftment of others, and ultimately ceasing their involvement in the cycle of birth and death.
Thank you for inspiring so many to take up the service of the Lord. For encouraging us on this mystical journey, and helping us deepen our relationship with the Holy names of the Lord.
Your lowly servant
Vrindaranya devi dasi
Please accept my humble obeisances.
All glories to you on this special day of your appearance.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
As I write this offering I feel how much I lack any depth of realisation, intelligence or eloquent words to properly honor your spiritual qualities and service mood.
Although, as I reflect, I realise that the quality that I really appreciate about you is your compassionate mood towards your dependents and other living beings. There is a prayer by Prahlada Maharaja to Lord Nrsimhadeva that made me think of you;
“My dear Lord Nrsimhadeva, I see that there are many saintly persons indeed but they are interested only in their own deliverance. Not caring for the big cities and towns, they go to the Himalayas or the forest to meditate with vows of silence (manu-vrata).They are not interested in delivering others. As for me, however, I do not wish to be liberated alone, leaving aside all these poor fools and rascals. I know that without Krsna consciousness, without taking shelter of Your lotus feet, one cannot be happy. Therefore I wish to bring them back to shelter at Your lotus feet.”
We live in a time in society, when information about our spiritual identity and life's purpose is practically non-existent. Of course there are philanthropic societies and so-called spiritual organisations who unfortunately misguide people from the privilege and purpose of having a human birth.
It is rare to come across someone who puts aside their own self interest for the upliftment of others, and ultimately ceasing their involvement in the cycle of birth and death.
Thank you for inspiring so many to take up the service of the Lord. For encouraging us on this mystical journey, and helping us deepen our relationship with the Holy names of the Lord.
Your lowly servant
Vrindaranya devi dasi
Vrindavan-Madhurya das
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
The Bhagavatam notifies Vinā mahat-pāda-rajo-’bhiṣekam "one who has not smeared the dust of the lotus feet of a great devotee all over his body cannot attain Krishna"- Giving their lives in your service many devotees have become exalted.
Srila Prabhupada writes "by utilizing the sun rays sometimes even the stones become valuable but a blind man cannot see the sun even though there are enough sun rays before him". Turning conditioned souls into gentle devotees, sober and sweet, you sing and proficiently deliver lessons.
Your efforts cultivate & nourish flocks of devotees to offer back to Krishna. They serve and taste nectar along the way. The kingdom of God is available now in devotional service for they are the same- This is directly perceived in your absorption and by your grace I can slightly perceive this fact.
īhā yasya harer dāsye
karmaṇā manasā girā
nikhilāsv apy avasthāsu
jīvan-muktaḥ sa ucyate
“A person acting in Kṛṣṇa consciousness [or, in other words, in the service of Kṛṣṇa] with his body, mind, intelligence and words is a liberated person, even within the material world, although he may be engaged in many so-called material activities.”
Geographical location is not the factor rather it is the ample service opportunity you offer. Constantly instructing conditioned souls and giving us some service that is your mercy and our ticket to Godhead.
Accepting us for disciples you relocate our loving propensity. "Success in life means accepting a spiritual master who knows Krishna as the only supreme beloved personality" your love for Krishna excels as your most prominent glory. May my loving propensity be reposed in you.
You traverse the globe increasing the quantity and the quality of the devotees. You continuously add milk and boil simultaneously, Eternally serving the Lord!
My anxiety is that I cannot serve you.
Your associations is the solid benediction. As long as I have to remain within this material world I pray to serve you in some way and for your association & shelter.
your aspiring servant,
Vrindavan-Madhurya das
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet
All glories to Srila Prabhupada
The Bhagavatam notifies Vinā mahat-pāda-rajo-’bhiṣekam "one who has not smeared the dust of the lotus feet of a great devotee all over his body cannot attain Krishna"- Giving their lives in your service many devotees have become exalted.
Srila Prabhupada writes "by utilizing the sun rays sometimes even the stones become valuable but a blind man cannot see the sun even though there are enough sun rays before him". Turning conditioned souls into gentle devotees, sober and sweet, you sing and proficiently deliver lessons.
Your efforts cultivate & nourish flocks of devotees to offer back to Krishna. They serve and taste nectar along the way. The kingdom of God is available now in devotional service for they are the same- This is directly perceived in your absorption and by your grace I can slightly perceive this fact.
īhā yasya harer dāsye
karmaṇā manasā girā
nikhilāsv apy avasthāsu
jīvan-muktaḥ sa ucyate
“A person acting in Kṛṣṇa consciousness [or, in other words, in the service of Kṛṣṇa] with his body, mind, intelligence and words is a liberated person, even within the material world, although he may be engaged in many so-called material activities.”
Geographical location is not the factor rather it is the ample service opportunity you offer. Constantly instructing conditioned souls and giving us some service that is your mercy and our ticket to Godhead.
Accepting us for disciples you relocate our loving propensity. "Success in life means accepting a spiritual master who knows Krishna as the only supreme beloved personality" your love for Krishna excels as your most prominent glory. May my loving propensity be reposed in you.
You traverse the globe increasing the quantity and the quality of the devotees. You continuously add milk and boil simultaneously, Eternally serving the Lord!
My anxiety is that I cannot serve you.
Your associations is the solid benediction. As long as I have to remain within this material world I pray to serve you in some way and for your association & shelter.
your aspiring servant,
Vrindavan-Madhurya das
Wanzi
Jaya Jaya Sri Gurudeva,
Every year so many devotees glorify you for your unlimited compassion upon the fallen souls and your huge success in preaching Lord Caitanya’s Nama Sankirtana. Indeed these glories of yours are ananta and apara, unlimited and limitless. But still according to Caitanya Caritamrita, these are only your external glories.
The more significant and internal glories of yours are that you are most intimate with Krishna, and tasting the sweetness of Krishna’s holy names you are always in ecstasy. Romancha kampashru taranga bhajo, vande guroh sri charanaravindam. Who can understand your ecstasy, unless one chants Hare Krishna with attention and quality?
Gurudeva, you have Krishna and thus are already fully satisfied. But if devotees preach in their native languages, that will increase your satisfaction. Therefore, please accept the following offering of mine written in Chinese.
致恩师：
世人都晓神仙好，惟有功名忘不了！
古今将相在何方？荒冢一堆草没了。
世人都晓神仙好，只有金银忘不了！
终朝只恨聚无多，及到多时眼闭了。
世人都晓神仙好，只有姣妻忘不了！
君生日日说恩情，君死又随人去了。
世人都晓神仙好，只有儿孙忘不了！
痴心父母古来多，孝顺儿孙谁见了。
这首选自《红楼梦》的“好了歌”，一语道破红尘，与主Caitanya Mahaprabhu的美言八训Sri Sri Siksastaka之四不谋而合。乱烘烘你方唱罢我登场，反认他乡是故乡。尘世间无数生灵，出于无知，放弃了原本逍遥浪漫的极乐世界，而宁愿堕落到Devi-dhama中受苦受难。
正所谓，昨贫今富人劳碌，春荣秋谢花折磨。财奴，房奴，为情所困，死爱面子活受罪，尔虞我诈，逢场作戏，自欺欺人，今朝有酒今朝醉等等，各色的物质迷信把人整得死去活来。
天堂路，地狱门，万物皆空，神人合一。此四大骗术让人恶梦连连。
前狼后虎，进退两难。又不能坐着等死。问世间何为“天随人愿”？终于， Arjuna在〈〈神曲十八章 Bhagavata-Gita〉〉中，向真主Krishna求救道：我已束手无策，收我做徒弟吧，Krishna，请您指条明路。
充满爱心且有无穷神力的师傅啊，在这纷争黑暗的时代里，多少绝望无助的灵魂在您悉心的指引下踏上了“为爱奉献”的回归路。
就要回家了，家里有一切关心的人在等着。敲着锣打着鼓，又唱又跳，欢快的，充满了喜悦，调皮的孩子又变乖了。与您，我们一起深情高唱：
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare
唱累了，跳累了，还有好吃的饭菜。人人都高兴，天天是过节。心满意足，无忧无虑。快乐似神仙。
唱颂Hare Krishna就能开心。不胡思乱想，且心无杂念。这简单的让人不可置信。但师傅您，不管大家信不信，就都白给了，Krishna prema. 这就是爱。
师傅，您与真主Krishna亲密无间，且每时每刻心里都充满喜悦。我们崇拜您！
徒儿
Wanzi
Every year so many devotees glorify you for your unlimited compassion upon the fallen souls and your huge success in preaching Lord Caitanya’s Nama Sankirtana. Indeed these glories of yours are ananta and apara, unlimited and limitless. But still according to Caitanya Caritamrita, these are only your external glories.
The more significant and internal glories of yours are that you are most intimate with Krishna, and tasting the sweetness of Krishna’s holy names you are always in ecstasy. Romancha kampashru taranga bhajo, vande guroh sri charanaravindam. Who can understand your ecstasy, unless one chants Hare Krishna with attention and quality?
Gurudeva, you have Krishna and thus are already fully satisfied. But if devotees preach in their native languages, that will increase your satisfaction. Therefore, please accept the following offering of mine written in Chinese.
致恩师：
世人都晓神仙好，惟有功名忘不了！
古今将相在何方？荒冢一堆草没了。
世人都晓神仙好，只有金银忘不了！
终朝只恨聚无多，及到多时眼闭了。
世人都晓神仙好，只有姣妻忘不了！
君生日日说恩情，君死又随人去了。
世人都晓神仙好，只有儿孙忘不了！
痴心父母古来多，孝顺儿孙谁见了。
这首选自《红楼梦》的“好了歌”，一语道破红尘，与主Caitanya Mahaprabhu的美言八训Sri Sri Siksastaka之四不谋而合。乱烘烘你方唱罢我登场，反认他乡是故乡。尘世间无数生灵，出于无知，放弃了原本逍遥浪漫的极乐世界，而宁愿堕落到Devi-dhama中受苦受难。
正所谓，昨贫今富人劳碌，春荣秋谢花折磨。财奴，房奴，为情所困，死爱面子活受罪，尔虞我诈，逢场作戏，自欺欺人，今朝有酒今朝醉等等，各色的物质迷信把人整得死去活来。
天堂路，地狱门，万物皆空，神人合一。此四大骗术让人恶梦连连。
前狼后虎，进退两难。又不能坐着等死。问世间何为“天随人愿”？终于， Arjuna在〈〈神曲十八章 Bhagavata-Gita〉〉中，向真主Krishna求救道：我已束手无策，收我做徒弟吧，Krishna，请您指条明路。
充满爱心且有无穷神力的师傅啊，在这纷争黑暗的时代里，多少绝望无助的灵魂在您悉心的指引下踏上了“为爱奉献”的回归路。
就要回家了，家里有一切关心的人在等着。敲着锣打着鼓，又唱又跳，欢快的，充满了喜悦，调皮的孩子又变乖了。与您，我们一起深情高唱：
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare
唱累了，跳累了，还有好吃的饭菜。人人都高兴，天天是过节。心满意足，无忧无虑。快乐似神仙。
唱颂Hare Krishna就能开心。不胡思乱想，且心无杂念。这简单的让人不可置信。但师傅您，不管大家信不信，就都白给了，Krishna prema. 这就是爱。
师傅，您与真主Krishna亲密无间，且每时每刻心里都充满喜悦。我们崇拜您！
徒儿
Wanzi
Yamuna Jivan Das
Dear Gurudev,
Please accept our humble obeisance’s to your lotus feet. On this auspicious appearance day of yours, we pray to the Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vallabha, Gaura Nitai and Jagannath Baladeva, Subhadra for your good health.
We feel ourselves most fortunate to be able to attend and participate in this special occasion.
This year we started Home Program for preaching that made us realise some of the hardships of preaching. And, to imagine that you have been doing this for more than three decades, that too not staying at one place, travelling all over the world, is something amazing and extraordinary.
Just few days ago, we are most fortunate to receive Brahmin initiation from you enabling us a chance to further deepen our commitment and perform more services in the temple. As you advised us in the last darshan, one should not take Brahmin initiation for the sake of name or prestige but, one should rather develop the qualities of a Brahmana. we pray and hope that we live up to your expectations.
Personally, I got my greatest inspiration by listening to your lectures and instructions to read Srila Prabhupadas books. In fact, there is one lecture which I kept on hearing for about 10 times so far, each time I hear it, I would get some new point to talk about, in my Bhakti Vriksha program each week and I am yet to finish all the points you mentioned. It really, amazes me to see how much information you put into the lectures which are practical, relevant to the present time and succinctly putting forward the teachings of Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatham written by Srila Prabhupada. It leaves me wondering, how many lifetimes do I require, to listen, understand, assimilate all your lectures. I feel like a tiny bird trying to gulp the ocean.
I also take this opportunity to glorify your simplicity and humility where you mentioned in one of your lectures that, compared to so many big guns who came before you how you never thought you would be holding positions and preaching travelling around the world. And, you aptly remembered and quoted the words of Srila Prabhupad who said, “Watch out for the Big Guns”.
My wife also likes to read Srila Prabhupad books, cooking and preaching Krishna Consciousness for new people. She is highly inspired by your words of appreciation encouraging her to read and practice Krishna Consciousness.
Thank you very much Gurudev, for your mercy, guidance and blessings by which we are able to continue our devotional life. We hope to render some service to you that will help you to propagate the message and mission of Lord Chaitanya across the world.
Yours Humble Servants
Yamuna Jivana Das, Jahnavi Jivana Dasi, Baktha Gopal and Harideva.
Please accept our humble obeisance’s to your lotus feet. On this auspicious appearance day of yours, we pray to the Lordships Sri Sri Radha Vallabha, Gaura Nitai and Jagannath Baladeva, Subhadra for your good health.
We feel ourselves most fortunate to be able to attend and participate in this special occasion.
This year we started Home Program for preaching that made us realise some of the hardships of preaching. And, to imagine that you have been doing this for more than three decades, that too not staying at one place, travelling all over the world, is something amazing and extraordinary.
Just few days ago, we are most fortunate to receive Brahmin initiation from you enabling us a chance to further deepen our commitment and perform more services in the temple. As you advised us in the last darshan, one should not take Brahmin initiation for the sake of name or prestige but, one should rather develop the qualities of a Brahmana. we pray and hope that we live up to your expectations.
Personally, I got my greatest inspiration by listening to your lectures and instructions to read Srila Prabhupadas books. In fact, there is one lecture which I kept on hearing for about 10 times so far, each time I hear it, I would get some new point to talk about, in my Bhakti Vriksha program each week and I am yet to finish all the points you mentioned. It really, amazes me to see how much information you put into the lectures which are practical, relevant to the present time and succinctly putting forward the teachings of Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatham written by Srila Prabhupada. It leaves me wondering, how many lifetimes do I require, to listen, understand, assimilate all your lectures. I feel like a tiny bird trying to gulp the ocean.
I also take this opportunity to glorify your simplicity and humility where you mentioned in one of your lectures that, compared to so many big guns who came before you how you never thought you would be holding positions and preaching travelling around the world. And, you aptly remembered and quoted the words of Srila Prabhupad who said, “Watch out for the Big Guns”.
My wife also likes to read Srila Prabhupad books, cooking and preaching Krishna Consciousness for new people. She is highly inspired by your words of appreciation encouraging her to read and practice Krishna Consciousness.
Thank you very much Gurudev, for your mercy, guidance and blessings by which we are able to continue our devotional life. We hope to render some service to you that will help you to propagate the message and mission of Lord Chaitanya across the world.
Yours Humble Servants
Yamuna Jivana Das, Jahnavi Jivana Dasi, Baktha Gopal and Harideva.
Yasodeva das
Guru Maharaja
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Gurudeva, thank you for making me feel special by remembering so many details about my life, even those embarrassing ones that I've tried to forget. Your attention to minutiae of your disciples is - I now understand - a symptom of genuine care:
"Putting your heart into the service means concentrating, taking care - even if this makes you feel inconvenienced. Then your spiritual life ascends."
I can only hope that I haven't been too much of an inconvenience for you, though I'm certain of several instances where I was a burden. Still, you always find a way to keep pushing forward in devotional service, no matter what obstacles we face.
Gurudeva, I've got serious issues and past traumas. You know that better than everyone else. But I've also got a secret weapon in your example and precept - and in your affectionate care. You're my golden ticket out of this cerebral cesspool that I live in:
"You long to experience perfect reciprocation. That's why when you're around a devotee who has the knack for how to treat everyone appropriately, you feel happy and inspired. Indeed, observing such a devotee's interactions is like studying a work of art. You'll notice that whenever beautiful, spiritual reciprocations abound, material anxiety in the atmosphere fades away. Bhakti-yoga dispels the love insecurity."
Thank you for being - among so many other things - my devotional therapist. And thank you for the wise words of personal instruction that you occasionally toss my way - it is the miracle medicine for my mad mind.
your convalescing servant,
Yasodeva das
Please accept my humble obeisances at your lotus feet.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Gurudeva, thank you for making me feel special by remembering so many details about my life, even those embarrassing ones that I've tried to forget. Your attention to minutiae of your disciples is - I now understand - a symptom of genuine care:
"Putting your heart into the service means concentrating, taking care - even if this makes you feel inconvenienced. Then your spiritual life ascends."
I can only hope that I haven't been too much of an inconvenience for you, though I'm certain of several instances where I was a burden. Still, you always find a way to keep pushing forward in devotional service, no matter what obstacles we face.
Gurudeva, I've got serious issues and past traumas. You know that better than everyone else. But I've also got a secret weapon in your example and precept - and in your affectionate care. You're my golden ticket out of this cerebral cesspool that I live in:
"You long to experience perfect reciprocation. That's why when you're around a devotee who has the knack for how to treat everyone appropriately, you feel happy and inspired. Indeed, observing such a devotee's interactions is like studying a work of art. You'll notice that whenever beautiful, spiritual reciprocations abound, material anxiety in the atmosphere fades away. Bhakti-yoga dispels the love insecurity."
Thank you for being - among so many other things - my devotional therapist. And thank you for the wise words of personal instruction that you occasionally toss my way - it is the miracle medicine for my mad mind.
your convalescing servant,
Yasodeva das
